Visiting Granada in 2023?
Which district is better?
If you are planning a trip to Andalucia it's likely you're about to make your first place to visit the Alhambra in Granada. The incredible world heritage site of the Alhambra Palaces and Generalife is a must-see on anyone's bucket list. What's not so easy though, is where to find accommodation that is not too dark, small or impossible to get to. Granada is a wonderful city to walk around and we’ve put together a brief overview of the different districts to help you decide.
The Albaycin
The upside is This is a wonderful choice of location as there are many bars and restaurants, the mirador San Nicolas is located here, and the view of the Alhambra at sunset is incredible. The Albaycin's charming narrow streets and architecture give you a real sense of history. It’s quiet, and there isn’t the traffic to contend with as this is the historic old quarter and limited traffic zone of Granada.
The downside is If you stay in this area, it's very difficult to drive in and out of. There are restricted times to get in and out and it's not easy to navigate. NB GPS does not work here. However, the best advice I can give is if you decide to stay here, park your car somewhere in the main town and get a taxi to your accommodation. It's far less stressful and relatively easy to find. There is a car park by the NH Victoria hotel and from there you can call a cab to take you to your destination.
Sacromente
The upside is This area is up towards the hills behind the Albaycin. The old Gypsy barrio, but don't let that put you off. It's a lively area, with a Bohemian feel. In the evenings you will hear the delightful sounds of flamenco guitar and dancing nearby, not far to go to see a wonderful performance in a cave and it finishes around 12 pm. This area has recently become quite popular and it's possible to stay in some really amazing cave houses that have been renovated to a very high standard. The walk at dusk through the Albaycin is lovely. It is also possible to cross over the bridge and walk to the Alhambra from here.
The downside is The same driving conditions apply here so again a taxi might be the way to go.
The city centre or Realejo San Matias
The upside is The easiest part of town to stay in by far. Central to the Cathedral and main shopping area. There are buses that will take you directly up to the Albaycin and from there you can walk or catch a bus back down to the city centre. There are also buses that take you to the Alhambra complex from Plaza Nuevo. However, if you choose to walk, the path from Plaza Nuevo up through the Cuesta de Gomérez, through the gates of Puerta de las Granadas is refreshing and well worth it.
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The Alhambra and Generalife (gardens) are listed as a Unesco world heritage site and will take the best part of a day to explore- ENJOY!