Things to Do in Granada

Granada sits in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a city where Moorish palaces overlook narrow cobblestone streets and tapas culture thrives in ways you won't find anywhere else in Spain. The Alhambra complex dominates the skyline - and rightfully so - but the city's appeal extends far beyond its most famous monument. You'll find yourself wandering through the Albaicín's maze-like streets, where white-washed houses cascade down hillsides and the scent of jasmine drifts from hidden courtyards. What makes Granada particularly compelling is how seamlessly it blends its Islamic heritage with Andalusian traditions. The city has a genuine student energy thanks to its large university population, which keeps the nightlife vibrant and the restaurant scene innovative. That said, this is still a place where you can enjoy free tapas with every drink - a tradition that's largely disappeared elsewhere in Spain but remains wonderfully intact here.

Granada's dining scene revolves around its legendary tapas culture, where free food accompanies every drink order - a tradition that's largely disappeared elsewhere in Spain. The quality varies dramatically between tourist traps and local favorites, so follow the crowds of Spaniards rather than multilingual menus. Calle Navas offers the highest concentration of quality tapas bars, while the Realejo neighborhood has excellent restaurants serving more substantial meals. For whatever reason, Granada has developed an unusually good selection of international cuisine, particularly Middle Eastern and North African restaurants that reflect the city's Islamic heritage. The university population keeps prices reasonable and standards high, especially in the area around Gran Vía and Recogidas.

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather, with warm days and cool evenings perfect for wandering hillside neighborhoods. Summer can be genuinely hot - temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F) - though the altitude provides some relief compared to Seville or Córdoba. Winter is mild but can be surprisingly wet, and snow occasionally dusts the Sierra Nevada visible from the city. Holy Week (Semana Santa) brings spectacular processions but also crowds and higher prices. The summer festival season (June-August) includes outdoor concerts and extended restaurant hours, though you'll want to plan activities for early morning or evening to avoid the heat.