10 things to do in Granada without fail!

Alhambra is the reason why many people visit Granada. This wonderful palace is enriched with great history. It has been beautifully sculptured following the Islamic architecture norms. This ancient castle has been built over generations by a multitude of different communities. The palace is adorned with indescribably intricate stone carvings, the delicate filigrees, the magnificent tile lined ceilings, the graceful arches and frescoes and motifs of the time. Surrounded by a forest, it is nestled on the hillocks overlooking the serene valley. Generalife is a part of the Alhambra which is the summer leisure residence of emirs. Its terraced gardens are a real delight which offers a peaceful respite from the grandeur and splendid views. This is either a heaven or paradise, nothing in between. An amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site well worth the visit.

The beautifully styled Spanish Renaissance masterpiece, Catedral de Granada with an elegant dome designed by Enrique Egas can be found sprawling in the heart of old town Granada. It has been praised by writers and historians for its design and decor. While it was initially situated on the site of the Main Mosque, it was converted into a Church later on. It combines Islamic and Gothic styles very gracefully. It is also the seat of the Archdiocese of Granada. The Royal Chapel of Granada is a beautiful place with lovely works of art and monumental architecture. This amazing chapel built during the beginning of the 16th century offers the view of the crown of Isabella de Castilla and the sword of Ferdinand de Aragon. The Catedral and the Chapel are interlinked, making it easier for access.

This old Arabic bathhouse or hammam in Granada’s El Albaicín district was not only an important place to freshen up but also a place to maintain social contacts. This Arab bath, also known as Hammam Al Andalus Granada comprises of three rooms, the ‘frigidarium’ (cold chamber), the slightly larger arched ‘tepidarium’ (warm chamber) and lastly, a room beautifully decorated with arches, pillars, and marbles called the ‘caldarium’ (hot chamber). The caldarium is the area with the real baths and is instilled with star-shaped apertures that can be found on the ceilings of this breathtakingly beautiful Moorish bath. Visit this old glamour preserved with ancient luxury without the use of modern technology we now have to take showers.

Carrera del Darro is the name given to the entire left bank of the River Darro. This offers a picturesque romantic cobblestoned street to stroll around preferably during sunset or while you can look at the starry night sky. On a sunny day, the walk by the river can be pleasant with many shops, cafes, and street musicians fringing the banks.

The Paseo de Los Tristes is also known as the Promenade of the Sad Ones. You can find people going crazy walking around trying to locate this street on the map because it is one of those places in the city which is neither on the street map nor on the GPS. Contrary to its name, this street is full of life with colors, churches, museums, palaces, and aromas which makes it a perfect place to sit down and consume the idyll beauty of Granada. Plaza Nueva can be found adjacently situated with the Carrera del Darro which is the oldest square in Granada.

The Albaicín is an untouched part of Granada famous for its quaint streets and narrow lanes brimming with authentic culinary delights. The serendipity of this place and the wonderful views along the street is an add on. Discover this maze of streets and alleys as you walk past the historic views of Alhambra. You will find an ancient Arab quarter along your way and the streets are designed with typical Moorish elements all along. Amaze yourself by experiencing the deep cultural roots of Granada by visiting Albaicín.
Sacromonte is a museum whose main feature is a collection of caves in varying degrees of despair. These white caves located in an area clinging to the hillside is where the Spanish gypsy communities originally resided which marks the gypsy quarter of Granada. Make sure you visit this magical place in Granada.

The most authentic Flamenco shows can be found amidst the hillocks of Sacromonte. There are a couple of great cave bars that can be found in the Camino de Sacromonte too. Majority of these flamenco shows are hosted in the historic cozy cave homes, giving the audience an intimate and intense performance. Peña la Platería is one of the oldest Spanish flamenco clubs, so if you're looking for a historical moment, you know where to head. Some of the bars have flamenco music playing so dance along with your partner and make merry!

Tapas in Granada is not just a tradition, but a lifestyle. By taking a stroll around you can taste a great variety of Spanish cuisine and it is absolutely free, only the drinks are chargeable. The name tapa originated from the word tapar which means to cover. Granada is one of those few Spanish cities that still serve free tapas as they are considered as a gift of the house and many bar owners take pride in their tapas. Try one of these in-house tapas and experience one of the best-known examples of Spanish cuisine.

The famous ski resort of Sierra Nevada in Granada is located on the southernmost part of Spain, around 32 kilometers away from Granada by road. Skiing here is simply magical, with its perfectly carved snow slopes and snow resembling sparking crystals under the winter sun. This famous alpine skiing destination set amidst a spectacular scenery should definitely be on your wishlist.

The Moorish marketplace, Alcaiceria is situated off the main streets of Granada, Spain. Brimming with stores, cafes, churches and hordes of tourists and locals, there's no leaving Granada without visiting the Alcaiceria. With faint resemblance to a Morrocan mini-souk, indulge in a shopping lamps, exotic natural tea, trinkets and other souvenirs as a memory of this gorgeous town. Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, just a walk through this vibrant souq takes you back to the Arabian fables you've read in your childhood.

This Carthusian Spanish Monastery in Granada is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture norms. This is supposedly the most beautiful monastery in Spain, with intricate artwork, detailed decor, and meticulously crafted rooms. Tucked away outside from the hustle and bustle of city life, a drive towards this part of town is zen in itself. The Charterhouse also flaunts a collection of Renaissance art with a variety of very impressive oil paintings. The trompe l’oeil retablo in the room next to the refectory is impeccable, with the church’s ceiling covered in plasterwork. Make sure you add this pearl of Baroque onto your Granada wishlist.