While in Spain, we took a train from Madrid to get to Andalusia region. We visited Seville first and next stop was in Granada. Let me take you around this gorgeous city, from a stunning sunset to the amazing Alhambra. What to do and see while in Granada.
Strolling around Granada
After arriving around 3pm, we had lunch at a small restaurant on Navas Street where the hotel is located together with many bars and cafes.
Later, we walked to Bib-Rambla Square. More restaurants and cafes by this square and very close to the Cathedral. From there, we went to the La Alcaicería, an alley where there are lot of stores with handcrafts, and typical things to get as souvenir. Great spot to get something to bring home.
Since we were in the area, we decided to visit the Cathedral. You have to pay to enter, but it’s worthy! I think it’s a must see in Granada. Well, one of the ‘must see’ in this city. Beautiful, big and interesting. If you want, join the mass service for free.
Although I wanted to stay by the street to have tapas and sangria, we visited the Albaicin neighborhood. Just before sunset, we arrived at a restaurant by Mirador San Nicolas, to enjoy the reds, blues, oranges and even pinks in the sky and the wonderful view of the Alhambra. Amazing spot to end a relaxing afternoon.
More walking and Alhambra
After breakfast, we went to Monasterio de la Cartuja or also know as La Cartuja de Granada. I thought it was going to be worth it, including the view from there… I was wrong. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a nice place to visit maybe if you already saw everything in Granada and rather do something instead of taking a nap. Not big deal in my opinion. More amazing places to see.
Next stop: Cuevas de Sacromonte, where you have to climb few steps to get to the caves. Walk around the area, lot of information about the caves and about the people that used to live here and the neighborhood. Plus, you get to enjoy a nice view of the Alhambra.
From there, I walked down the hill until I reached Carrera del Darro which offers you lots of cafes and bars next to the river and another beautiful view of Alhambra. I believe you can see the Alhambra and Generalife from any point in this area.
I kept walking, passing by more stores, squares and a fountain telling me I was getting closer to the hotel, because at some point I had no idea where I was. I was just enjoying the view, ambience and my stroll.
After having a quick lunch, we took a taxi to take us to, finally, the Alhambra and Generalife. I had passes waiting for me, and a long walk for hours to enjoy every corner, every detail of the area.
Everything took my breath away… Literally, because I walked a lot under the sun and hot weather. But yes, the whole place was amazing! My recommendation, comfortables shoes at all times, sun blocker and lot of water, even when you can find stores and bars selling water and even beers…
When visiting the Alhambra and Generalife, try to buy tickets online, because the long lines to get them can take part of your day. Plus, it’s faster and very simple. You need to schedule a time for your visit, because some of the areas, you will get a specific time to enter. And very important, take your time to enjoy every detail, to capture, not only with you camera, but with your eyes every corner, every tile, every fountain, statue, garden… This place is as gorgeous as interesting and even relaxing!
The architecture, the gardens, the view to the city, the fountains and statues… Even when I was dead after touring the place, I’d do it again… Maybe during winter so I can see snow on top of the mountain, Sierra Nevada.
At night, after a long shower, we just went to Navas Street to enjoy few tapas and sangria… of course!.
Remember to keep the city as clean as possible! It’s your planet after all 🙂
