Where to Stay in Granada
Fixed in atmospheric Andalusia, Granada is steeped deep in architectural awe and clashing cultural influences. Before you go, check out this guide on Where to Stay in Granada, Spain.
Spain is slewed with a string of scintillating destinations, from the lively capital of Madrid to the beachside haven of Barcelona. As you scale further down south, the ample finds in alluring Andalusia will not disappoint.
Flaunting fascinating tradition, flirtatious flamenco and a riveting culture, Southern Spain leaves quite the imprint.
Granada is nothing short of a destination from godsend, from the cave performances and captivating cuisine to the whimsical architecture and whitewashed streets.
With a depth of dazzling districts like Albaicin and Sacromonte, you may be wondering what are the top neighbourhoods to stay in.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive guide, see this post on How to Plan a Trip to Granada, Spain.
Let’s get the ball rolling with this complete guide on Where to Stay in Granada.
10 Best Areas to Stay in Granada
Whether you want a taste of the palatable tapas, teeming history or exquisite art scene, every corner of Granada offers something different.
Get swept away by the cave homes in Sacromonte, go wild in the nightlife in Beiro or keep it calm, cool and collected in the Ronda district.
Whatever your style, you’ll find something suitable in this comprehensive guide. Here’s a round-up of the 10 best places to stay in Granada, Spain:
Centro
Beiro
Albaicin
Ronda
Zaidín
Sacromonte
Genil
Chana
Realejo
Centro (City Centre)
Let’s kick off this neighbourhood guide in the beating heart of Granada, the city centre. Locally known as El Centro, this district is steeped deep in all the ideal finds.
Brimming with boutique stores, café-fringed terraces and colourful marketplaces, the city centre boasts it all. If you're wondering where to stay in Granada for first-timers, this is a suitable option.
Soak up the lively atmosphere from the picture-perfect plazas, discover the array of architectural gems and dabble in the delightful tapas scene. Whether you want to navigate the network of alley-woven streets, stumble upon the sublime sights or simply stay centrally located, this neighbourhood is the top pick.
Flaunting luxury hotels, budget-friendly apartments and backpacker-friendly hostels, you’ll find a mix of everything. When looking for where to stay in Granada, El Centro offers convenience as well as competitive pricing.
Things to do in El Centro:
Step inside the Cathedral
Visit the Royal Chapel
Pop by the Alcaiceria
People-watch in Bib Rambla Square
Stop by the Madraza
See the Corral del Carbon
Best Places to Stay in El Centro:
€€€: Alhambra Palace
Beiro
Bursting with bustling street life, buzzing nightclubs and ample intriguing finds, Beiro is one of the best neighbourhoods in Granada, Spain.
Woven with a wealth of tea houses, art galleries and hookah bars, the once-prominent, ancient Arabian culture can still be found nestled in this corner of the city. Teeming with top-notch tapas restaurants and bars frequented by the international scene, Beiro is touted as a top spot for younger travellers.
Scale the eerie bullfighting arena and afterwards, kick back and devour the palatable plates in the nearby gastronomy scene. Known for its nightlife, this is the ultimate partygoer's hot spot.
Topped by its affordability, Beiro is one of the best places to stay in Granada, Spain. With plenty of transport options surrounding the area, this neighbourhood is ideal for those who are also looking to explore. Here you’ll find Granada’s biggest bus and train stations, so if adventure is on the plate, Beiro is where it’s at.
Things to do in Beiro:
Check out the ancient Plaza de Toros
See the scenery from the Mirador del Torreon
Feel the ambience in the Monasterio Cartuja
Best Places to Stay in Beiro:
€: Princesa Ana
€€: Allegro Granada
€€€: Catalonia Granada
Albaicin
Etched with an eclectic expanse of awe-inspiring sights, Albaicin makes for a fantastic foray.
Explore the enchanting streets, wander around the whitewashed homes and uncover all the eerie finds in this ancient district. Arrayed with impressive architecture and all-around Andalusian vibes, this personality-packed neighbourhood is no short of pleasurable pursuits.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, the steep streets and hidden gems will have you wanting more. If you’re looking for where to stay in Granada, Albaicin offers a surprising range of riveting stays. Lapped with luxurious hotels, Arab-inspired accommodations and panoramic apartments, this area is filled with some seriously stunning sojourns.
Backed by the most beautiful streets in Granada, Albaicin is a spot that’ll send you into a state of rapture. Frolic along the flower-bedecked alleyways, soak up the views of the Alhambra and connect the captivating roots of Granada’s Moorish past.
If romance and enchantment are of the essence, don't skip a beat in this destination! When figuring out where to stay in Albaicin, Granada, take into account the hilly streets and limited transport.
Things to do in Albaicin:
Hit the heights of the San Nicolas Viewpoint
Wander astray in this UNESCO-listed neighbourhood
See the sunset from the Saint Michael Viewpoint
Visit the Puerta de Fajalauza
Get a dose of greenery in the Parque Cármenes de San Miguel
Best Places to Stay near Albaicin:
Ronda
Woven in the western front of the Granada region, Ronda is replete with remarkable landscapes. Rich in character, this tranquil town offers a slice of authentic Southern Spanish living.
As one of the best cities to stay in Granada, there’s a magical mix of manicured gardens, architectural finds and sprightly city activities. Gallivant around the greened-out parks, walk along the wide boulevards and uncover centuries-old gems. You’ll encounter a few tapas bars and affordable eateries, as well as a handful of historical attractions. For a local experience, Ronda is one of the best places to stay in Granada, Spain.
Things to do in Ronda:
Soak up the sun from the Federico García Lorca Park
Dive deep into history at the Science Park
Strut your stuff down Calle Pedro Antonio de Alarcón
Best Places to Stay in Ronda:
Sacromonte
Geared towards a getaway from godsend, Sacromonte makes for a stellar sojourn. Famed for its eye-catching cave homes, rich flamenco culture and lively gipsy history, this is one of the best neighbourhoods in Granada.
Perched on the hilltops behind the Albaicin district, Sacromonte is steeped deep in passion and panoramas. Wander through the alley-woven, whitewashed streets, peer into the traditional cave buildings and lose yourself in the ample authenticity.
Feel the ambience in a flamenco cave performance, explore the enchanting gems and dine like a local. Learn about the history of the Romani people, listen to the music and chatter in the streets and pop by the countless churches, convents and abbeys.
If it’s your first-time visiting Granada, don’t miss the opportunity to stay in an authentic cave home or boutique hotel.
You’ll find pocket-friendly, unique accommodation options here. If you’re speculating over where to stay in Granada, Sacromonte is a standout option.
Things to do in Sacromonte:
Wind your way around the Abadia de Sacromonte
Swing by the Museum of the Sacromonte Caves
Stroll along the Camino del Sacromonte
Watch an authentic flamenco show
See the sights from the Mirador Sacromonte
Best Places to Stay in Sacromonte:
Zaidín
Situated in the south of central Granada, Zaidín boasts local living and affordable prices.
Escape the inner-city buzz, eat in the restaurant scene and watch a football match at Los Carmenes Stadium. With long-term apartments, recently-renovated hotels and a handful of hostels available, Zaidín hosts many wallet-friendly places to stay in Granada, Spain.
Things to do in Zaidín:
Check out the Camino de los Neveros
Stop by the Fábrica de Tejidos San Patricio
See the Escultura en Memoria a Salvador Enguix y Pepito
Best Places to Stay near Zaidín:
Genil
Melded with a mix of modern and affordable accommodation, Genil is dowsed with a variety of accommodation options. Set in Downtown Granada, this gem proffers postcard-worthy views of the Alhambra.
Escape to the lavish courtyards, bathe in Turkish baths and splash around in the indoor swimming pools.
Considering its location on the cusp of the Generalife Gardens, this is a top spot if you're interested in sightseeing.
As one of the best neighbourhoods in Granada, Genil offers hefty high-quality pursuits. There are limited places to stay, so if you'd like to stay here, you'll have to get in quickly.
Things to do near Genil:
Explore the Generalife Gardens
Head up to the Alhambra
Stroll along the River Genil
Pop by the Llano de la Perdiz
Best Places to Stay in Genil:
Chana
Coined as one of the top commercial districts in Granada, Chana boasts bohemian experiences all around. Touted as the culinary heart of the city, you can expect to find mouth-watering plates on every corner.
Sample the delectable tapas scene, lose yourself in the sounds of live music and sip the night away in the surprisingly surging craft beer scene. Jump aboard the easily-accessible public transportation and make your way into the array of surrounding attractions.
With long-term apartments, budget-conscious hotels and ample accommodation options, Chana is one of the best places to stay in Granada. If you're on the hunt for a food-focused, affordable stay, this neighbourhood is a stellar choice.
Best Places to Stay in Chana:
Realejo
Anchoring the foot of the Alhambra, Realejo is rich in riveting pursuits. Brimming with a bohemian atmosphere, this former-Jewish quarter is fringed with an artsy flair, trendy bars and vibrant squares.
Traverse the teeming narrow streets, gawk at the art galleries and step inside the cultural centres.
Kick back in the spacious squares, get social in the bar scene and keep your eyes peeled for the colourful splash of street art. If you’re wondering where to stay in Granada, Realejo is replete with art-filled accommodations and budget-friendly stays.
Things to do in Realejo:
Check out the nearby Corral de Carbón
Pop into the Museo Sefardi
Soak up the vibes from the Plaza del Campo del Príncipe
Swing by the Monastery of San Francisco
Stop by the Cuesta del Realejo
Best Places to Stay near Realejo:
Best Time to Visit Granada
So, now that we've figured out the best places to stay in Granada, it's time to move on to the nitty-gritty details. Among all the logistics, you might be wondering what is the best month to visit Granada.
That answer depends highly on your travel budget, style and personal preferences.
Each season boasts something different, and there is no wrong time to visit the sun-packed, southern Spanish city.
The best time to visit Granada is usually during the off-peak periods of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November).
These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and cost-friendly prices on accommodation, activities, flights and transport. You’ll endure fewer crowds too!
The summer season, June to August, boasts brilliant, sun-filled days and scorching hot temperatures.
As one of the most popular times to visit the city, you can expect to battle big crowds and high prices too. If you do choose to travel during this season, make sure your accommodation has air-conditioning or a pool. Temperatures can soar up to 35°.
The winter season, December to February, offers chilly weather, and some seriously exciting activities.
This is the ideal time to hit the ski slopes in the Sierra Nevada. If you're looking to experience a different side of the region, winter is a wonderful option.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Granada
Granada is a city that's scattered with sublime sights, from the alluring Alhambra to the intricately-detailed Nasrid Palaces. You may be wondering how many are recommended, and the answer depends on what you want to get out of the trip.
It’s best to spend a minimum of two days in Granada. If you want to tick off all the highlights, set aside at least 3 days in your itinerary.
Things to do in Granada
After narrowing down where to stay in Granada, now’s the time to start looking for activities and attractions. Save yourself the hassle and tick off all the bucket-list items with this post on the Best Things to do in Granada, Spain. Here’s what you can’t miss:
Tour through the Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces & Generalife Gardens
Stroll around on a Sunset Tour of Albaicin & Sacromonte
Take an Electric Bike Tour
Go on a 4WD Safari in the Sierra Nevada
Eat your way into a food coma on a Walking Food Tour
Get active on Los Cahorros de Monachil Canyon Hiking Tour
Visit the Cathedral and Royal Chapel
How to Get Around Granada
Granada is a very walkable city, and making your way around on foot is one of the most feasible options. This hillside hot spot is slewed with a series of highlights, and if you're not into strolling up steep hilltops, there are plenty of other options.
Hiring an e-bike is a fun way of getting around, especially if you want to stay active. Otherwise, you can opt to rent a motorbike or car. Be mindful that driving in Granada's city centre isn't all that ideal. The narrow streets and limited parking spaces can make it a nightmare.
Another affordable option includes the hop-on hop-off train. Otherwise, you can catch a cab, bus or train to reach other cities.
7-Day Southern Spain Itinerary
Granada is etched with a world of whimsical finds, from the flower-fringed streets to the hill-perched palaces. Whether you want to get in among the action or head out to a hilltop hideaway, this guide on Where to Stay in Granada has everything you need to know.
But why stop there? Take things one step further with this 7-Day Southern Spain Itinerary.
Spice up your trip as you wind through Andalusia's top destinations. Stroll through the orange-scented streets in Seville, discover the delights in cliff-hugging Ronda and hit the coastline in Malaga. Whether it's an adventure, art, architecture or ample relaxation you're after, this 7-day itinerary has got you covered.
FAQS
How many days should I stay in Granada?
Generally, 3 to 4 days is enough time to visit Granada. Home to highlights like the Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces and Generalife complex, this city is home to picturesque neighbourhoods like Albaicin and Sacromonte. Don’t miss a flamenco performance, the Arab baths and tapas.
Are 3 days in Granada too much?
Three days in Granada is considered the perfect time to explore the highlights. On your trip, you’ll be able to see a handful of the city’s best attractions.
What is the most beautiful street in Granada Spain?
Granada is home to labyrinth-like alleyways, flower-bedecked homes and ancient streets. One of the most postcard-worthy streets in Granada is the Royal Alhambra Street.
Is Granada a walkable city?
Alike most of Andalusia’s main cities, Granada is a very walkable city. The only time you might consider catching a taxi is on the way up to the Alhambra. With narrow streets and steep alleyways, make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Why Visit Granada?
Granada is one of my favourite spots in Spain. After living here for over five years, I can honestly say that nothing that matches the charisma of this southern-situated city.
Whether you want to come face to face with the clashing cultures, frolic around the enchanting gardens or get lost in the whitewashed neighbourhoods, Granada boasts something for everyone’s bucket list.
Before you jet off on your next holiday, save this guide on Where to Stay in Granada, Spain.
I’m calling it. This place is one of Spain’s most underrated travel destinations. If you’re planning a trip to Aragon, don’t miss these top 17 things to do in Zaragoza.