Luxury holidays in Granada

500 years ago, when the Moors were driven out of Granada, Boabdil, the last sultan, is said to have wept as he turned his back on his beautiful palaces. Looking at the city today, it’s easy to understand his grief. Chief of Granada’s attractions is Alhambra, the vast complex of forts and palaces that sits sentinel above the city, commanding spectacular views and drawing hordes of tourists year round. From its famous turrets, you can gaze over the city to Albayzín, a winding maze of hilly streets that was once the Moorish citadel and is now a good place to stop for a mint tea and a hookah pipe in of the many teterias (tea shops). Further uphill you come to Sacromonte, the gypsy barrio that gave the world flamenco, where many of the homes are actually caves built into the hillside. Down in the city-centre, Granada’s Spanish past takes centre-stage at the Capilla Real, the chapel that houses the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabel, the royal couple who not only ousted the lamenting Boabdil, but also sent Columbus on his first world-changing voyage of discovery.

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Areas in Granada

When to go

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit as the climate and crowds are less intense. During July and August temperatures can reach 40˚C and it has been known to snow in the city during the winter.

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Tales from our travels

Getting there

  • Planes

    British Airways and Iberia fly via Madrid to Granada-Jaén airport | just 17 kilometres outside the city | near the small town of Santa Fe. Internal flights to and from Barcelona also operate regularly. Malaga airport | an hour or so from the city | carries many more international flights.
  • Trains

    There are no high speed lines connecting Granada’s central station with other Spanish cities – it can take over five hours to get to Madrid.
  • Automobiles

    Narrow-streeted Granada is not a motorist-friendly city and certain areas are closed to all vehicles other than taxis and buses. If you do come by road | find a secure car park to stash your vehicle.
  • Taxis

    Although cabs are flaggable in the street, it can be tricky to pin one down in the evening, so try one of the ranks close to Granada’s big-name attractions, such as Alhambra, or call Teleradio Taxi Granada on +34 958 280654.