Granada: Cosmopolitan and Old-World Wonder

Home to the famous and ostentatious fortress of Alhambra and countless cultural and historical attractions, Granada holidays should be at the top of your wish list.

Granada is a city that holds surprises and sights around every corner. Boasting a beautiful and intriguing historical centre decorated by grand buildings and charming eateries, old scenic walkways, a myriad of pretty palaces and easily accessible countryside treats  - this is a destination with many strings to its bow.

The city was founded as far back as before the Roman Empire, and since then it's been the site of many historical upheavals. Today Granada offers tourists the chance to explore its rich culture with all the modern comforts they could require, while providing a great base for travelling around Andalusia. Holidays to Granada encompass excitement, exploration and sophistication.

The Grandest Palace
Overlooking this beautiful city is the fairy-tale fortress of Alhambra, the most famous palace in Spain. This massive structure houses interconnecting palaces and gardens, dating back to the 4th century. You'll find plenty to wow you in Generalife Palace, with amazing gardens and gorgeous fountains; you could spend your entire holidays in Granada traversing and embracing its grandeur. The oldest part of the Alhambra is the Alcazaba which perches atop a hill overlooking the city. Spectacular views of the city below and the distant Sierra Nevada are the real treats up here.

Central Granada is the historic centre of the city as well as functioning as its vibrant heart. The area is adorned with shops, eateries, bars and attractions all located along charming cobblestone alleys and in tranquil plazas. Some of the must-sees in these parts include the towering cathedral and its beautiful Renaissance interior, the Royal Chapel and its monarch tombs, and Alcaiceria market.

The Arab baths or Hamman are a great way to unwind and feel cleansed during your Granada holidays. Granada has a long history with Middle Eastern pampering, so the locals really know their stuff. Book in advance and spend a couple of hours being indulged in the steamed-filled wash houses. Many top Granada hotels also offer brilliant spa facilities, so if you want something a little less rustic you could find it closer to home than you thought.

Beyond the Alhambra
It is easy to be drawn towards the Alhambra and spend most of your holidays to Granada exploring its majesty. And while nobody could blame you for falling under its spell, there are countless other sites and areas that relish your attention.

Granada is home to various ancient neighbourhoods that are characterised by their beautiful white-washed old buildings, charming shops and restaurants, and scenic gardens. The Muslim neighbourhood of Albayzin dates back to the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the Carrera del Darro streets and alleyways, San Jose Church, Mosque of Granada and Plaza Larga allow you to discover the ancient vibe of this attractive area.

In the same UNESCO World Heritage Site listing is another neighbourhood called Sacromonte. This oddly isolated and unique area is a gypsy district, home to the beautiful Sacromonte Abbey. The neighbourhood is also famous for its flamenco shows which prove to be a very popular tourist attraction.

Exploring these white-washed areas is improved further by a sun-filled blue sky. Visitors will feel the heat during their holidays in Granada from the months of June to September. The Alhambra will always have a busy influx of tourists, but avoiding the months of July and August would be wise. The winter months see snow fall on the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering some great skiing opportunities during January and February.

Out and About in Granada
Opportunities for shopping here are great. Whether you want to delve into the old-fashioned bazaars or hit the high street for some bargains, you'll find it's an easy fix in Granada. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, mainly attributed to a large student population, so it's easy to get right where the action is.

Granada holidays boast some serene and attractive plazas that prove to be great places to relax partake in a people-watching session or indulge in some local food and shopping. Plaza de Bib-Rambla has a great view of the cathedral's tower as well as being home to pretty flowers and bubbling fountains. Plaza Nueva is the city's oldest square and is surrounded by a number of bars and restaurants while sitting in the shadow of the Alhambra.

Beyond the city you'll find some of Spain's beautiful countryside and natural highlights. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are situated 30km away from Granada and offer opportunities for skiing in the winter months and various outdoor sports year-round.