Studying in Granada opens the door to a world of new experiences. Its historic sites and scenic landscapes will connect you with true Spanish charm.

In this city, you will be able to visit the Alhambra, one of Spain’s greatest tourist attractions, take a walk, enjoy some tapas, entertain yourself with a flamenco show, and much more.

Take a look at the best places to visit and some of the activities you cannot miss while studying in Granada.

Visit the Alhambra

This impressive hilltop palace is the most visited tourist destination in Spain with almost 10,000 visitors a day. It was the residence of the Nasrid sultans between the 13th and 15th centuries, and therefore, at the same time as being a palace, it is also a fortress surrounded by walls that can be seen from all over the city.

This construction is part of a complex of structures, among which the following stand out:

• The Nasrid Palaces
• The Generalife Gardens
• The Fine Arts Museum

Furthermore, the Alhambra was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 together with the Generalife Gardens and the Albaicín.

Tour the Nasrid Palaces

When visiting the Alhambra, we recommend starting with the Nasrid Palaces, as it is the most popular part of the complex. You’ll see a series of intricately designed buildings and courtyards filled with lovely gardens.

Stroll through the Generalife gardens

Next to the Nasrid Palaces, you will find the Generalife gardens, one of the most striking places in the Alhambra. They were the spaces that the royalty of Granada used to relax, and in fact, they are the oldest Moorish gardens in the world.

The best time to visit them is in spring. During this season, the colours and fragrances of the flowers combined with the architectural beauty of the pools and fountains turn the gardens into places of enchantment.

Explore the Fine Arts Museum

Near the entrance to the Nasrid Palaces, is the Granada Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes de Granada). It houses a collection of 2,000 pieces of art and sculptures. Here you can admire the Renaissance and Baroque styles of the time.

Wander the Albaicín

This Moorish neighborhood is full of cobbled streets and traditional buildings and squares that will make you feel like you are stepping back in time. Its streets wind up and down the hill and are dominated by the majestic Alhambra Palace.

If you want to have a true encounter with the history and culture of this place, go to the Arab quarter of Granada that is close by.

Fall in love with the viewpoints

In the hills around the Albaicín, there are a series of viewpoints that you will love. The most popular of them is the viewpoint of San Nicolás. There you will see the most beautiful sunset of your life, as you will have a panoramic view of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

You can also stop at the San Cristóbal viewpoint as you descend from the Albaicín towards the city. You will enjoy a beautiful view of Granada from the heights.

Go for a walk in Sacromonte

After visiting the Albaicín, take a few hours to get to know Sacromonte. This neighborhood is home to a Romany community. Its charm lies in its gypsy caves, beautiful natural surroundings, and flamenco shows.

There are many restaurant options along the main street. In addition, as night falls, you can admire the traditional flamenco dances that tourists love.

Enjoy the tapas

Granada is synonymous with alfresco dining, tapas and good wine. There are many options to try tapas in the city, but the most popular are in:

• El Realejo
• La Carrera de Darro
• Plaza Nueva
• Paseo de Los tristes
• Plaza de toros
• Elvira and Navas streets

The atmosphere of these bars is traditional and cozy, and they are usually full of both locals and tourists.

Discover Carrera del Darro

In the residential area of ​​the Albaicín, is the Carrera del Dorro. A walk that borders the river Dorro and crosses it with two stone bridges. Nearby you will find other emblematic places such as:

• El Bañuelo,which houses Arab baths dating from the 11th century
• The Cathedral of Granada

Visit the Alcaiceria bazaar

You will spend hours visiting all the shops and stalls. This is the perfect place to find a souvenir that represents Granada and Andalusia.

You will see Fajalauza ceramics adorned with inlay, and Moorish-style hand-painted crockery with blue and green plant motifs.

Venture into the Sierra Nevada National Park

This park is a paradise for adventurous students in Granada. The trails are quiet and the views are spectacular. On clear days, it is even possible to see Morocco across the Mediterranean from one of the viewpoints.

And if you like snowy landscapes, we recommend visiting between December and April, since during this season the ski resort opens, and you can live an unforgettable experience in the snow.

There are many other things to do and places to visit in Granada. Especially if you choose this destination to start your university life.