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Granada is a compact, historic Andalusian city centered around the Alhambra, narrow Albaicín streets, tapas culture, and flamenco — plan ahead for Alhambra tickets, expect steep hills and lots of walking, and enjoy a relaxed pace with excellent food and sunsets.
Visa / Entry Requirements
- EU/Schengen citizens: no visa required. Travel with national ID or passport.
- US/Canada/Australia et al.: short tourist stays (usually up to 90 days within 180 days) are visa-free — must enter the Schengen Area. Carry passport valid at least 3 months beyond departure and issued within the last 10 years.
- Non-visa nationals: check Spanish consulate/embassy for specific visa rules, transit visas, and COVID-related rules (if any) before travel.
- Travel documents: proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds may be requested at border control.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): ideal — warm days, blooming gardens, fewer crowds than peak summer, Easter (Semana Santa) is very busy but culturally rich.
- Autumn (September–October): pleasant weather, harvest season, fewer tourists.
- Summer (July–August): hot, especially inland; city crowded; evening activities are better; book Alhambra and accommodations well in advance.
- Winter (December–February): mild days but cold nights; fewer crowds and lower prices; some services reduced.
Safety Tips
- Granada is generally safe for tourists. Typical European-city precautions apply:
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Alhambra queues, bus stations, plazas, trains, tapas bars).
- Keep valuables secure and use a money belt or front pocket in busy spots.
- Avoid poorly lit narrow alleys alone late at night; stick to main routes or take a taxi.
- Emergency number: 112 (EU-wide).
Local Customs & Etiquette
- Greetings: handshake or kiss on both cheeks among friends; polite and warm.
- Siesta culture: many small shops close midday (roughly 2–5pm) though tourist areas and supermarkets often stay open.
- Tapas: often free with drink in many bars — stand or sit, and expect a relaxed, social dining style. Tipping is appreciated but modest (5–10% in restaurants; small change in bars).
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (churches, Cathedral): shoulders covered and no shorts in some places.
- Flamenco shows: respectful silence during performances; photos may be allowed but confirm.
Currency & Money
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Cards widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard). Carry small cash for tapas bars, markets, tips, and smaller vendors.
- ATMs readily available; use bank ATMs to minimize fees. Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Transportation
- Getting there: Granada has an airport (GRX) with domestic and some European flights. Major international arrivals often connect via Madrid, Barcelona, or Málaga. High-speed trains (AVE/AVE connections) serve Granada from Madrid; buses connect from nearby cities.
- Getting around:
- Walkable central area (Albaicín, Realejo, city center) but expect steep, cobbled streets.
- Buses: local EMTA buses cover the city; buy single tickets or reloadable cards.
- Taxis: affordable and plentiful; phone apps and street hails available.
- Car: not recommended for central Granada due to narrow streets and limited parking — useful if exploring Sierra Nevada or Andalusian countryside.
- Cable car to the Alhambra isn’t available — access is by foot or bus; there is a bus up to the Generalife/Alhambra perimeter from central areas.
Must-Know Tips & Local Insights
- Alhambra: book timed-entry tickets well in advance (often sells out weeks/months in peak season). Buy official tickets from Patronato de la Alhambra or trusted resellers. Plan a minimum 3–4 hours and include the Nasrid Palaces time slot.
- Alcazaba, Generalife & Mirador de San Nicolás: best views at sunset; Mirador gets very busy — arrive early for a spot.
- Albaicín & Sacromonte: wander narrow lanes, enjoy viewpoints and cave houses; watch your step on uneven pavements.
- Tapas culture: try local specialties — piononos, remojón, tortilla, jamón ibérico, and dense Andalusian soups. In some local bars, tapas change daily and are a surprise.
- Flamenco in Sacromonte: see a zambra or tablao for intimate, authentic flamenco; buy tickets in advance for popular shows.
- Day trips: Sierra Nevada (skiing in winter, hiking in summer), Córdoba and Seville by train/bus, Nerja and Costa Tropical for beaches.
- Language: Spanish is primary; basic Spanish phrases help. Many tourist workers speak English, but smaller establishments may not.
- Accessibility: historic streets and Alhambra terrain can be challenging for limited mobility — check accessibility options in advance.
Practical Packing & Final Advice
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobbles and hills.
- Layered clothing for warm days and cool nights, especially spring/fall.
- Sun protection in summer (hat, sunscreen) and a light rain jacket for spring/autumn showers.
- Power adapter (Type C/E, 230V) if needed.
Enjoyment tip: take time to linger at a terrace with a view of the Alhambra at golden hour, sample local tapas routes (tapeo), and explore at a relaxed pace — Granada rewards slow travel.
Safe travels!