Granada City Breaks

With its intriguing Moorish history and situated next to the amazing backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada offers a city break with a difference. Located in the region of Andulucia it has scarcely changed in hundreds of years with its prime attraction the Alhambra Palace, an unmissable part of any visit. 

What to do…
The Alhambra Palace, a World Heritage Site, is perhaps the best example of Moorish architecture in Europe and is the most visited monument in Spain. More than just a palace, it is an entire walled city complete with royal apartments, pavilions and forts including the beautifully tranquil Generalife or ‘architect’s garden. You could easily spend a day here just exploring the wonders of this amazing monument. Head back to Plaza Nueva and relax at one of the outdoor café bars of the oldest square in Granada. From here Elvira Street takes you into the Albaycin district, the old Moorish quarter of town. A trip to the cave houses of Sacromonte is well worth a visit to see the amazing dwellings that for centuries have been home to gypsies, bohemians and Flemish artists and whilst the flamenco dancing is aimed at tourists, the views are spectacular. Granada Cathedral has impressive facades and a wonderful interior regarded as a masterpiece of Spanish renaissance. If you are the active type take a guided trek to the Waterfalls of Monachil, or go swimming in Quentar lake up in the mountains (a bus ride away and a 30 min steep walk - not recommended in the middle of the day heat). If you prefer something more relaxing visit the one of the Spas or Arab Baths (advance booking recommended) and simply pamper yourself. Depending on the time of year, you can also ski in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains or lounge on the beaches of the Costa Tropical (Tropical Coast). 

Where to stay…
The 2 star Atenas Hotel is a great addition to our Granada City Breaks programme as it offers basic but clean, well-kept accommodation, perfect for those travelling on a budget.  The Cathedral is located nearby and the Alhambra can be reached in 10 minutes by bus.  A popular 3 star choice is the Hotel Navas which is one of the most central hotels in Granada situated in the heart of the main district , within five minutes’ drive of the Alhambra and 20 metres from the Town Hall. The rooms are well furnished, cosy and modern – what more could you ask for?  However if luxury is what you are after then we recommend the 4 star Alixares Hotel which has a fantastic location right opposite the much visited Alhambra. The Moorish style of the area is reflected in the décor of the hotel's spacious entrance hall and café bar and there is an attractive outdoor swimming pool and terrace. 

When to go…
With its lovely Mediterranean climate, city breaks to Granada are popular throughout the year but the city does get very hot during the summer months so we recommend the spring or autumn as the best time to visit.

What to eat…The gastronomy of Granada and Andalucia is rich and diverse and is celebrated in many restaurants in the city. Look out for habas con jamon (beans and ham) and Sacromonto omelete. It is also home to arte del tapeo (tapas art) a free piece of which is often served with drinks. The most famous tapas areas are Albaicin and Campo del Principe.

Getting there…We offer direct flights to Almeria from 5 UK airports including East Midlands, Gatwick and Manchester with a transfer time to Granada of around an hour and 40 minutes. Although the airport at Granada mainly handles domestic flights, meaning a change is required from the UK and Ireland, it works really well as part of a multi-centre break. Why not combine Granada with a stay in Barcelona or Madrid for example? Contact us and we would be happy to put together an itinerary just for you!

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