Granada stands out from my time in Spain, the city itself is so different to everywhere else I’ve visited. Here, the Moorish influence is unmistakable, from the tantalising flavours of its cuisine to the intricate designs of the buildings. Even the way the layout of its streets represents much of Granada’s history (and it is pretty damn cool).
The Albaycin, Granada’s old town, draws in travellers with its undeniable allure. It’s home to an INCREDIBLE fortress that combines Islamic art with lush gardens that overlook the city. The cobbled streets of the old town lead to hidden courtyards and vibrant markets, where you can often hear the sound of flamenco guitars strumming in the wind.
The Sierra Nevada’s snow-capped peaks form a pretty spectacular background and offer EPIC adventures beyond the enchanting city. Granada captivates the soul – blending rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes into one hell of a city. You’re in for an absolute treat!
However, figuring out where to stay in Granada can feel overwhelming, especially with the summer crowds. But don’t worry about a thing, I’ve navigated this wondrous city of you and compiled this guide on where to stay in Granada tailored to fit any travel style and budget.
Let’s get started!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Granada?
- Granada Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Granada
- Granada’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Granada
- What To Pack For Granada
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Granada
- Final Thoughts On Where to Stay in Granada…
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Hostal Verona Granada | Best Budget Hotel in Granada
The Hostal Verona Granada offers simple rooms in Granada Centro (the centre of Granada). Each room has a private bathroom, air conditioning, a patio and a free Wifi connection. The hotel does not serve breakfast in the morning, but it is really easy to find something to eat within walking distance.
La Casa de la Trinidad | Best Hotel in Granada
La Case de la Trinidad is a nice hotel in the centre of Granada. Its rooms are fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with international channels and soundproofing. The staff can welcome you around the clock at the reception and free Wifi access is provided.
El Granado | Best Hostel in Granada
El Granado is a lively Granada hostel located in the historical centre of Granada. Many activities, such as tapas tours and sangria nights are regularly organized so you do not have a chance to even think about getting bored! You can choose between a private room with an ensuite or a shared bathroom, or a bunk bed in a dormitory room.
Atico’Secret Penthouse | Best Airbnb in Granada
This flat’s perfect for late-night fiestas and mid-day siestas. You’ll be in the heart of town, easy to enjoy the cathedral and cafes during the day, and the roaring, raucous, Latin parties at night. Sangrias abound with all the region’s fresh fruit.
El Albaicin
El Albaicin is the oldest neighbourhood in Granada, and also the most picturesque. It has been built in the medieval times by the Moors on the hillside facing the Alhambra
La Chana
La Chana is a neighbourhood located a bit further away from the centre of Granada. However, it is strategically placed near the local university, making it very popular with students
El Centro
El Centro is the city centre of Granada and one of the most popular neighbourhoods to stay in for tourists and visitors. Indeed, it is located near all the main sights including the Alhambra
El Realejo
El Realejo is located in the central area of Granada and used to be the Jewish quarter of the city. It is a vibrant neighbourhood and it displays a really cool modern urban vibe that I love
Bola de Oro
Bola de Oro is a quieter neighbourhood in Granada and as such is perfect for families who are looking for some rest from the hustle and bustle of the city at night
Granada is one of the most important cities in the Andalusia region in the south of Spain and one of the most visited cities in Spain. It boasts stunning architecture dating back to medieval times and the Moorish occupation of Spain and has a vibrant nightlife filled with tapas and flamenco.
The city centre, called El Centro, is busy all the time and is the heart of everything. Lots of tapas bars are located in the area, as well as traditional restaurants and nightclubs. If you are looking for cultural sights, the neighbourhood is dominated by the Cathedral.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Granada’s oldest neighbourhood is El Albaicin, which was built by the Moors on the hillside facing the Alhambra. You will love getting lost in its small streets which feel like a maze and get awesome views of the landscape around. This medieval palace and fortress have some of the most beautiful architecture I’ve ever seen and is an absolute must-see when in Granada.
The world-famous Alhambra is located right next to El Albaicin and to the south, the old Jewish district of El Realejo inspires a different vibe. Street art is everywhere around here, and so are cool tapas places and bars. If you want to experience Granada like a local, El Realejo is the perfect place to stay!
The neighbourhood of La Chana is located a bit further away but is lively. And thanks to the students living around here, and is one of the cheapest areas to stay in Granada.
Granada’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
You may still feel confused about where to stay in Granada at this point. Let’s clear that up and look at each one of the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Granada.
1. El Albaicin – Where to Stay in Granada for Your First Time
El Albaicin is the oldest neighbourhood in Granada, and also the most picturesque. It was built in medieval times by the Moors on the hillside facing the Alhambra. There is truly something magical about this place, and it is easy to understand why it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the premier attraction in Granada.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Thanks to its location, El Albaicin boasts the best views over Granada and the Alhambra which is on the hill next to El Albaicin. While a small castle already existed at this location before the arrival of the Muslims, it was them who created the architectural masterpiece there today. Make sure to get your tickets in advance as Alhambra gets really busy, especially during the high season.
You can easily get lost in the small streets of El Albaicin; which were designed like a maze. This has been done on purpose so that the enemies would get lost.
Hotel Macia Plaza | Best Budget Hotel in El Albaicin
The Hotel Macia Plaza offers modern rooms in El Albaicin, within walking distance away from the Alhambra. The rooms are modern and fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub, a flat-screen TV and a tea and coffee maker. A good breakfast is served in the morning.
Hotel Casa Moresca | Best Hotel in El Albaicin
The Hotel Casa Moresca is a superb hotel located in an old house with a stunning view over the Alhambra. The picturesque beamed rooms are fitted with air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The breakfast is very good and a free Wifi connection is provided at Hotel Casa Moresca.
Oripando Hostel | Best Hostel in El Albaicin
Oripando Hostel is tucked away on the steep slopes of Grenada and will make you fall in love with this city. The staff are friendly, you’re in a great location and has epic spots to hang out in throughout. This is a wonderful option for digital nomads in Spain.
There are shops close by to get groceries or whatever else you might need to sustain yourself during your stay at Oripando Hostel. The staff here are lovely and helpful and can point you in the direction of cute cafes in the city centre. There’s a nice social vibe here so you’ll be able to unwind and enjoy the rooftop terrace, or explore Granada with like-minded travellers.
Albaicin Getaway | Best Apartment in El Albaicin
If you’re going to stay in a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, why not stay in this cosy three-bedroom apartment? You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Granada of old the moment you step into this beautifully curated space. The hosts are wonderful and supportive and encourage guests to visit Granada’s highlights (and secret lights).
Things to see and do in El Albaicin
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Get lost in the maze-like streets on the hillside
- Visit the world-famous fortress of Alhambra
- No trip to Granada is complete without visiting the Albaicín and Sacromonte. The tour will pass through Albaicín, protected as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1994.
- Get up on a rooftop to get the best views over Granada and the Alhambra
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View on Osprey View on REI2. La Chana – Best Place to Stay in Granada on a Budget
La Chana is a neighbourhood located a bit further away from the centre of Granada. However, it is strategically placed near the local university, making it very popular with students. As a consequence, accommodation tends to be much cheaper around here, and so do bars and restaurants.
If you are travelling on a budget, this is the perfect neighbourhood for you! While there are not so many tourist sights in the neighbourhood itself, La Chana is still located close to Granada’s top attractions. You can still easily visit Alhambra when staying here.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
However, there is one thing that is extremely popular around here, and it is tapas! To cater to a student crowd, the portions are bigger and cheaper than other areas of Granada at the same time.
Come here to experience a true local feel and taste some of the most authentic regional specialities. Take the opportunity to make some new friends amongst the students hanging around!
Plus, there are some great cave house rentals around here too.
The Martin House | Best Budget Hotel in La Chana
The Martin House is a lovely guest house in the La Chana neighbourhood in Granada. Each room features a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a free Wifi connection.
Some of the rooms are decorated in Moorish style. Guests can make use of the kitchen to cook and a good breakfast is served in the morning.
Camino de Granada Hotel | Best Hotel in La Chana
The Camino de Granada Hotel offers comfortable rooms fitted with a private bathroom with a bathtub and air conditioning. The hotel has a large terrace where guests can relax in the sun, as well as a nice outdoor swimming pool. The in-house restaurant serves a nice breakfast in the morning, and regional food including tapas during the day and the evening.
Cosy Apartment | Best Apartment in La Chana
Make a saving and experience some Mediterranean hospitality with this gorgeous cosy Airbnb in Spain. This apartment sleeps four and is on the first floor which is easy access for people with big backpacks! There’s a fully equipped kitchen and two bedrooms with double beds so this is an epic place to share with the gang to save cash.
Things to see and do in La Chana
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Get some gigantic portions for a very small price in the tapas bars
- Get the local feel in the La Chana market
3. El Centro – Best Area to Stay in Granada For Nightlife
El Centro is the city centre of Granada and one of the most popular neighbourhoods to stay in for tourists and visitors. Indeed, it is located near all the main sights including the Alhambra, and there is always something going on in El Centro.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Many restaurants, tapas bars and regular bars are scattered in the streets of El Centro, and all of them stay busy late into the night. If you feel like partying even more after that, there are also some good clubs in the area. Staying in El Centro is convenient as you will save a significant amount of money on late-night taxi fares since you can walk back to your hotel.
The Cathedral is one of the main sights in the city centre. It was built in a traditional Spanish Renaissance style where the mosque used to stand, right after the region was conquered back by the Spanish throne. It is huge and is the 4th largest cathedral in the world.
Hostal Verona Granada | Best Budget Hotel in El Centro
The Hostal Verona Granada offers simple rooms in the centre of Granada. Each room has a private bathroom, air conditioning, a patio and a free Wifi connection. The hotel does not serve breakfast in the morning, but it is really easy to find within walking distance.
La Casa de la Trinidad | Best Hotel in El Centro
La Case de la Trinidad is a nice hotel in the centre of Granada. Its rooms are fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with international channels and soundproofing. The staff can welcome you around the clock at the reception and free Wifi access is provided.
El Granado | Best Hostel in El Centro
El Granado is a lively hostel located in the historical centre of Granada. Many activities, such as tapas tours and sangria nights are regularly organised so you do not have a chance to even think about getting bored! You can choose between a private room with an ensuite or a shared bathroom, or a bunk bed in a dormitory room.
Atico’Secret Penthouse | Best Airbnb in El Centro
This flat’s perfect for late-night fiestas and mid-day siestas. You’ll be in the heart of town, easy to enjoy the cathedral and cafes during the day, and the roaring, raucous, Latin parties at night. Sangrias abound with all the region’s fresh fruit.
Things to see and do in El Centro
Photo: Chris Lininger
- Have a late-night experience in a tapas bar
- Discover the Sierra Nevada mountains surrounding Granada, and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the old city from a 4×4.
- Visit the Granada Cathedral
- See the most beautiful glacier valley of Sierra Nevada, San Juan Valley.
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Grab an eSIM!4. El Realejo – Coolest Places to Stay in Granada
El Realejo is located in the central area of Granada and used to be the Old Jewish Quarter of the city. It is a vibrant neighborhood and it displays a really cool modern urban vibe that I love. If you are looking for something a little bit different than the traditional Moorish environment for your stay in Granada, El Realejo is the place to go.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
El Realejo is also a vibrant neighbourhood at night, with lots of cocktail and tapas bars that stay open until late. Check out places like Colagallo where you can get a delicious cocktail for no more than 4€!
Hotel Alhambra Palace | Best Hotel in El Realejo
The Hotel Alhambra Palace is a castle-shaped hotel located right at the foot of the Alhambra in Granada. Its luxurious rooms are all fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, soundproofing and free Wifi access.
A very good buffet breakfast is served in the morning. The in-house bar boasts a superb terrace with stunning views over the city.
Carlota Braun Hostel | Best Hostel in El Realejo
The Carlota Braun Hostel is a friendly and clean hostel located in the heart of El Realejo in Granada, just a short walk from Alhambra Palace. It offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as bunk beds in dormitory rooms. Each guest has access to hot showers, an individual locker to keep their valuables safe, and a personal reading light.
The vibe at Carlota Braun Hostel is phenomenal with lovely staff and friendly fellow travellers.
Calm Suite With Jacuzzi | Best Airbnb in El Realejo
Hidden away amongst El Realejo’s twisting alleys, thousand-year-old chapels, and atmospheric piazzas, could be you in a private rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi. Surprisingly airy and tastefully decorated, this Mediterranean twist on a hobbit hole will make for a memorable weekend for sure! This apartment has room for four guests and is in an epic location in the city centre with Alhambra Palace within walking distance.
Things to see and do in El Realejo
- Get some insight on how the Jews used to live at the Jewish Museum in the Jewish Quarter
- Gaze at some of the best views in Andalusia. The memories of the landscape and breathtaking scenery will be your favourite souvenirs from your trip.
- Explore Alpujarra on a day trip from Granada. Learn about the history of the region of Andalucia and see some stunning scenes.
- Hop on a street art tour to get a real feel of the neighbourhood, most of which has been painted by El Nino de las Pinturas.
5. Bola de Oro – Best Neighborhood in Granada for Families to Stay in
Bola de Oro is a quieter neighbourhood in Granada and is perfect for families looking for some rest from the nighttime city hustle. In Bola de Oro, visitors will find cobblestone streets lined with leafy trees and great views over the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the distance. Around here, take the time to relax and slow down the pace after crazy days of visiting Granada.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
While there are no cultural sights per se in Bola de Oro, the city centre is a short bus ride away. If the kids are up for it, you can walk to the Alhambra and other places of interest in around 20 minutes. It is a very cool thing to do on a summer evening with a belly full of tapas!
Hotel Albero | Best Budget Hotel in Bola de Oro
The Hotel Albero is a small establishment offering comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom. The staff there is very helpful and prepares a good breakfast in the morning. Secured parking is available at the hotel and a free Wifi connection is provided.
Hotel Macia Real de la Alhambra | Best Hotel in Bola de Oro
The Hotel Macia Real de la Alhambra is a modern hotel offering rooms fitted with air conditioning. Plus, each room has a private bathroom with a bathtub, a seating area and a minibar. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers which can be used in the summer, as well as a bar and a restaurant.
Genil River Apartment | Best Airbnb in Bola de Oro
Coming fully equipped with everything you’ll need to cater to a brood, I think this private flat is a great choice for a family. The soil’s rich and the fish fresh around here, so eating out is pretty cheap, but there’s a fully equipped kitchen should you need it! This place is in the literal dead centre of town, so no transport woes here.
Things to see and do in Bola de Oro
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Take a walk in the green pedestrian areas
- Take a quick bus to the city centre
- Soak in the views over the Sierra Nevada in the distance
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Granada
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Granada and where to stay.
What To Pack For Granada
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
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What’s the Safest Neighbourhood in Granada?
Bola de Oro would be my pick, it’s out of the hustle of the city centre and you can find plenty of charming hotels. If you’re travelling by yourself, it’s a good idea to let the hosts know where you’re going and when you’re likely to be back. Spain is a safe country but you should always stay aware and street smart.
When is best to Visit Granada?
Visiting in the shoulder seasons is always a good idea to experience this city with fewer crowds. Especially if you’re coming to Granada to see the major attractions and want to spend time milling about the Plaza Nueva. Hiking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is much more enjoyable when the weather is cooler too.
What is the best hotel in Granada Centro?
La Casa de la Trinidad is a beautiful hotel and in my opinion, the best hotel in Granada’s Centro neighbourhood. Everything you want and need is within walking distance and the staff are gorgeous. The spacious rooms are stunning and the San Nicolas viewpoint is a nice digestive after-dinner walk idea.
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Final Thoughts On Where to Stay in Granada…
Granada is a city full of architectural wonder in Andalusia and is well worth a visit if you are travelling through Europe. The Alhambra is a unique sight and I love getting lost in the small streets of El Albaicin. El Albaicin is my favourite neighbourhood to stay in Granada, and it boasts amazing views over the fortress and the rest of the city.
My top choice in terms of hotels in Granada is La Casa de la Trinidad. The rooms there have all you need to be comfortable and are welcoming and clean. This city-centre boutique hotel is a great choice for your time in Granada.
If you are looking for backpacker accommodation, El Granado is a super-friendly hostel with comfortable beds for the night. Make sure you book here for the best budget stay in the central location close to Alhambra Palace.
I’m sure you’ll adore your time in Granada wherever you stay, it’s a wonderful city, full of fabulous sights and things to do. I hope you’ve found something sweet for you with my hotel recommendations. Whether you find your home away from home in the old Jewish Quarter or Granada’s historic centre, enjoy the Sierra Nevada Mountains during your trip.
Have I missed anything in this guide? Let me know in the comments! Buen Viaje!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Spain.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Granada.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Spain instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Spain to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Spain.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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