Granada is a city located in the South of Spain in the region of Andalusia. The southern part of Spain is beautiful because of its cities of Arab influence, the countryside and beaches but especially because of the people who live in this region: the Andalusians.
When visiting Andalusia it must be remembered that the Arab reign in the area was of the same length as the Christian dominance. This fact makes that the Arabic artistic, gastronomic and culinary heritage has an influential role in the beautiful Andalusia, specially, in Granada.
Spanish people love spending time with friends and family, enjoying outdoors meet ups for eating, drinking and specially chatting with friends. Is in Andalusia where this happens more commonly out of all Spanish cities. Andalusians are friendly, welcoming, fun and enjoy eating and drinking but also singing and dancing.
Granada has three main landmarks, which are a must to visit: the Alhambra, the Albaicín and Sacromonte.
The Alhambra was the complex of palaces where Arab Sheikhs used to live when the south of Spain was under the Muslim command back over a thousand years ago. These palaces are majestic and worth visiting, being as part of one of the wonders of the world. Currently, the Alhambra is the most visited monument in Spain and part of the heritage of humanity.
Albaicín and the Sacromonte are two neighbourhoods of the city of Granada located in two small mountains in front of the Alhambra. Strolling through the Albaicín and Sacromonte you will experience something that will stay with you forever: the streets, the smells, people in the street, music, dance, cooking and the “fiesta” spirit.
It is worth visiting a “Carmen” in Albaicín and a “Zambra” in Sacromonte.
A “Carmen” is a typical house in Granada where Andalusians live; it has an inner courtyard and, some of them, the beautiful views of the Alhambra.
A “Zambra” is like a cave. These kinds of “caves” are located in Sacromonte, where traditionally gypsy families live. Gypsies have been part of the Spanish culture for hundreds of years. Their culture and their music, "flamenco", have made Granada known worldwide.
To “feel” Spain you need to listen to flamenco and know the Spanish gypsy heritage. The streets of Sacromonte have given the Spanish culture some of the greatest flamenco guitarists, singers and dancers known around the world, like Paco de Lucía. Zambras have been and will always be the places where the best flamenco in the world will flourish.
Another beautiful place to visit, other than the three previously mentioned, are the Cathedral and the tombs for the Spanish Catholic Monarchs, which are located at the city centre and close to the main avenue: the Gran Vía. We recommend walking around these areas and their surroundings with beautiful squares and gardens, full of life always.
Its also a good idea to visit the San Agustin Market, typical grocery market where to purchase local goods; and the “teterias” street (next to the Gran Vía), an enchanting Arabic area inside Granada with beautiful “café like” premises where the actual main drink is tea. Trying one of their many different flavoured teas is a must, along with giving “cachimbas” (shisha) a try.
The Alhambra is one of the most visited places in the world, so we would recommend buying the tickets in advance from the Alhambra’s official website (click HERE).
Geographical Location of Granada. Click HERE.
For more information about Granada. Click HERE.
For more information about La Alhambra. Click HERE.
Note that September is the end of the summer. While there may be daytime temperatures of 25-30°C, at night temperatures tend to drop so note a light coat will be required.
Summer clothes along with light jacket will suit during your visit. We also recommend comfortable shoes as Granada invites to long walks around beautiful places.
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