Granada Tour
“Give him alms, woman, there is nothing in life like the pain of being blind in Granada.”
The most famous phrase about Granada that can be seen on ceramic tiles inside the Alhambra by F. Icaza.
Granada has a history that doesn’t span mere centuries but entire millenniums. It offers a cultural richness to enjoy by simply walking through its streets. A historically rich city, Granada allows breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Granada has two jewels that make it stand tall on the world tourism map. The first is Alhambra, the Moorish fortress & palace. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. The other one is Granada’s old city, Albayzin that is the testament to hundreds of years of Moorish occupation.
Granada has remained an iconic and popular tourist site. A charming gem in Andalucía, Granada is an ideal place both for romantic and family get-a-ways. It is a gritty and compelling city with astonishing Islamic architecture and Arab-flavored street life. The monumental churches, old-school tapas bars, and counterculture graffiti art add to the beauty of this historic city.
There is no wonder why Granada was sought after and fought for by so many rulers. The city is rooted in history which can be seen and experienced during the Granada walking tour. A Hispanophile and a great English poet Laurie Lee was true in mentioning that “Granada is a city that should be visited at least once in a lifetime”.
There are beautiful palatial structures, vast gardens, internal courtyards, and mosaics everywhere that will make your experience memorable. Granada appears like a rose perched in the snow as it mushrooms itself out from the attractive Sierra mountains. Granada will seduce you with its spectacular location and Moorish flovour.
The people of Granada are vibrant, welcoming, fun, and non-judgmental. The magic of the city is indescribable. Granada culture has its basis on a variety of historical influences. The city was under Muslim rule for 800 years. It is a city of a cross-section of history and time, an epitome of cultural fusion.
The atmosphere is enchanting and bohemian. You will be influenced by the politeness and the welcoming nature of the people.
You will be surprised to get free food that is served with beer or wine. Isn’t it a great welcoming gesture?
“Tapas hopping” is a part of Granada culture. People will be real to you without any façade.
How to reach Granada
Malaga is the nearest international airport to Granada. Granada is about 125 km from Malaga airport. You can reach Granada in two and half hours of drive from Malaga. You can also travel by bus and train. Special buses ply between Malaga and Granada which offers a comfortable journey. Although trains offer a more comfortable journey there are no direct trains between the two cities.
Best Time to Visit Granada
June is a good month to visit Granada. It will provide you a taste of festive fun. The Feria del Corpus Christi, a big annual bash is celebrated in June.
The months of September and October are perfect for wonderful sightseeing. Although the hordes of tourists are gone you have an ideal chance to visit the Alhambra. The weather could be a bit warm and sunny though.
Winter can be a good time if you want to combine skiing in the snow-capped scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains near Granada.
Top Reasons to Visit Granada
Alhambra: A Masterpiece of Islamic Architecture
Traveling to Granada is almost synonymous with visiting Alhambra, the crown jewel of Granada. This fortified palace is Granada’s love letter to Moorish culture. With the soaring peaks of Sierra Nevada in the background, Alhambra represents the pinnacle of the Moorish heritage and culture.
Protected by the mountains and surrounded by the forests, this magnificent architecture rises like an imposing castle. The wonderful creation of immaculate craftsmanship will bewilder you with its beauty and grandeur. Sitting high atop a hill in the heart of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage site rules the Granada skyline. Alhambra boasts a stellar view, magnificent architecture, and rich history.
Alhambra is a magnificent sight. It would be an injustice, to sum up, it with a few words: It is a palace, castle, summer retreat, and enclosed town all in one fascinating place.
The masterpiece architecture has lush gardens that have colourful flowerbeds, well-trimmed hedges, geometrical pools, and fountains. Alhambra enjoys an awe-inspiring natural setting with luxuriant grounds that perfectly suit the lavish Moorish palaces. Some consider Alhambra as the 10th wonder of the world. This massive structure and the impenetrable fortress were built over many centuries.
Explore the Gardens of Generalife
A UNESCO-designated World Heritage site, the Generalife was designed as a place of rest and respite for the sultans and emirs. The sultans and emirs resided in the sumptuous Alhambra palace. Generalife which means “the house of the Architect” is a charming pleasure-house and garden. It is located on Cerro de Sol and can be accessed from the main entrance adjacent to the Alhambra.
Constructed as a summer palace, the complex is centered on picturesque courtyards. Generalife has a theatre where international performances of music and dance are held. The Generalife is composed of a series of beautiful and large gardens, where every corner is pleasant and wonderful.
Albaicín and Mirador of San Nicolas
Albaicín, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site is a hillside neighborhood of the Albaicín. It is Granada's medieval Arabic quarter. It has picturesque narrow streets and simple whitewashed houses.
You can have a stunning view of the Alhambra complex from some places of Albaicín. However, the most spectacular viewpoint in the Albaicín is the Mirador of San Nicolas.
Mirador of San Nicolas is a must-see spot. It offers "the most beautiful sunset in the world". The beauty of this viewpoint is magical and indisputable. The view presents the Alhambra and the Generalife face to face and the city at its feet.
In the evening the sunset lights up the city. Just as the sun crawls down, the lights of the Alhambra start to glimmer on. The magnificent background is set up by the bright purple and golden hues of the Sierra Nevada peaks. You will be wonderstruck by the unbelievable phenomenon of nature. The scenic experience can never go off from your memories of Malaga trips.
Another fabulous view of the Alhambra is from the Carrera Del Darro. This is one of the oldest streets in Granada. It runs along the north side of the Río Darro.
Royal Chapel
Royal Chapel is the final resting place of Isabel of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, the two famous rulers of Spain. Royal Chapel has a great historical value due to the transformation of the city of Granada. The beautiful tomb is made from alabaster. The altarpiece is a great piece of artistic expression. It contains all the spirituality and symbolism of the Royal Chapel.
The tapas scene
Tapas crawling is Granada’s biggest cultural pride and most iconic. They are an essential Granada experience that you must be a part of. These tapas are the proof of the saying that “Granada never sleeps”. Pro-Licensed Tour Guides can help you arrange a night of delicious fun and make Malaga excursions captivating and memorable.
Duration: 8-10 hours
Meeting place: Hotel, Apartment or Intersection (to be agreed)
Itinerary:
- Pick-up in A/C vehicle at the Hotel, Intersection
- Drive over the Highway to Granada (2 hours)
- Guided Tour of the Alhambra & Generalife Gardens (2,5 hours)
- Guided Tour of the Albayzin and Granada Old Town (2 hours)
- Visit of the Royal Chapel (Optional)
- Lunch Time
- Drive back to staring point
Requirements:
Follow COVID-19 Health & Safety Regulations
For up to 7 people
Valid passport for Alhambra Entry
Transportation:
Car, Van or Mini-Coach
Inclusions:
My Personal Expertise and Assistance for the full day tour
Courtesy Vehicles (Van, Mini Coach or car)
Full Guided Tour of the Alhambra, Generalife with local guiding expert
Admission fees to Alhambra, Generalife Gardens
Guided Tour of the Albayzin Quarter and Granada Old Town
Radio System for easy listening
Exclusions:
Souvenirs, Food & Beverages and Tips
Admission Fees to the Royal Chapel
Restrictions:
None
Estimated local cash needed:
35€