🏰 Granada
Granada is under an hour's drive from the house and makes a wonderful day out. We think it's one of the most magical cities in Spain.
The Alhambra is the big one: a breathtaking Moorish palace and fortress with gardens looking out over the city and the Sierra Nevada. Book your tickets well in advance on the official website, as they often sell out months ahead, especially in spring and summer. Allow at least half a day. (remember to bring your passport as they alway check)
The Albaicín is the old Moorish quarter, a maze of steep, narrow lanes and whitewashed houses. Climb up to the Mirador de San Nicolás for the classic view of the Alhambra, which is best at sunset. Hunt out the Nuns cakes if you have time
Sacromonte, just beyond, is the old gypsy quarter with its cave houses. It's the place to catch a flamenco show in the evening.
Tapas: Granada is one of the few places left where you still often get a free tapa with every drink. Order a caña (small beer) or a glass of wine, and food just appears. A tapas crawl around the streets near Calle Navas or Plaza Nueva is a meal in itself.
Also worth a look: the cathedral and the Capilla Real, where Ferdinand and Isabella are buried, and the Arab-style tea shops of Calle Calderería.
Getting there: It's an easy drive. Parking in the centre is tricky, so use one of the public car parks, or park at the Alhambra if you're visiting there first. we often park at Parking Estadio Nuevo los Carmenes . It has lots of spaces and the tram stops right by it
Our tip: Go early, wear comfy shoes (the Albaicín is all hills and cobbles), and either have a lunch at the Mercado San Agustín (before about 3) or else stay for one of the many resaurants. Granada has lots of great hotels and AirBNB if you fancy a night out or the drive home under the stars is great