Granada Spain is a World Heritage destination and one of the country’s most fascinating cities. Millions of annual visitors head to the Sierra Nevada foothills, Granada’s scenic locale, which is also known as the last pertinent Moorish stronghold in Spain. The history of Granada is one of the most appealing aspects of the city and it’s through the ancient buildings and monuments that this history unfolds. Granada Spain attractions are focused on both its historical significance and the ideal geographic location—the city extends over the Albaicin and the Alhambra, two prevailing inclines dissected by the picturesque rivers of Darro and Genil.

Legend and romance prevail in the detailed history of Granada. The most prominent and important of all Granada Spain attractions is the Alhambra Palace which sits atop a hill overlooking the surrounding area. The Alhambra is an enchanting castle featuring numerous architectural styles produced over hundreds of years by several distinct denominations. In the early 1200s, the Alhambra was the powerful seat of the Muslims, and even following the defeat of both Cordoba and Seville, Granada remained as a determinative Islamic center.

Granada Spain is characterized by scenic and topographical diversity. It sits in the eastern part of Spain in the district of Andalusia. It is northeast of both Cadiz and Malaga, and sits near the coastline, offering visitors warm, pleasant weather. Granada’s backdrop also includes areas laden with mountains and a sweeping fertile plain. Gems from the Christian Renaissance period and numerous palaces built by the Moors embody many of the best Granada Spain attractions, and there are plenty of hotels in Granada, should you wish to stay a few days and explore the area.

Granada Map

The Moorish settlement that laid roots in Granada arrived in 711, and reached a peak in 1237 when the Nasrid dynasty was first founded. In this period in the history of Granada, more than twenty kings ruled until the last reigning head surrendered control to the Catholic crowned heads, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, just before the turn of the sixteenth century. Today, along with the Alhambra, the Palacio de Generalife (the country estate and summer royal residence of the Nasrid kings) and the meandering Moorish backstreets of Albaicín are the top Granada Spain attractions.

Though the top three Granada Spain attractions do take precedence on most vacations, and their allure together creates an irresistible intrigue, there are many things to do around the city that revolve around Granada’s cultural importance. Exploring Granada Spain in more depth has many rewards. Visitors will come across unique bars and dining establishments, small flamenco lacunas, and pulsing clubs. A distinct North African community brings a noticeable Islamic feel and is a testament to the history of Granada.

One of the best, and most popular angles of Granada Spain are the free tapas, a cultural inclination enjoyed simply by ordering a drink at a local bar. This bodes well with the local university crowd as well as with travelers welcoming the opportunity to enjoy a complimentary Spanish favorite. Ample tapas bars are found centered around Campo del Principe and Plaza Nueva. With the Sierra Nevada close at hand, skiing is also a popular endeavor. Granada also features a number of great festivals including Holy Week, or Semana Santa, prior to Easter, and the International Festival of Music and Dance in June on the Alhambra Palace grounds.