5 COOLEST Neighborhoods in Granada [December 2024!]
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Granada is one of the most spectacular cities in southern Spain. It has a rich history, an exciting food scene, bustling nightlife, and lush natural attractions.
But some of the neighbourhoods don’t offer much to visitors and hotels fill up quickly, which is exactly why we created this guide to where to stay in Granada.
Written by our expert travel writers, this guide will help you pick the perfect neighbourhood and/or hotel in Granada.
Whether you want to see the top sights or sample the city’s best tapas, by the end of this guide you will definitely find a neighbourhood that suits your travel style and budget – we guarantee it!
So let’s get to it. Here are our top picks for where to stay in Granada, Spain.
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Granada
- Granada’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- Neighborhood #1 - El Centro
- (Where to stay in Granada for your first time)
- Things to See and Do in El Centro
- Where to Stay in El Centro
- Neighborhood #2 - Sacromonte
- (Where to stay in Granada on a budget)
- Things to See and Do in Sacromonte
- Where to Stay in Sacromonte
- Neighborhood #3 - Realejo
- (Best area to stay in Granada for nightlife)
- Things to See and Do in Realejo
- Where to Stay in Realejo
- Neighborhood #4 - Albaicin
- (Coolest place to stay in Granada)
- Things to See and Do in Albaicin
- Where to Stay in Albaicin
- Neighborhood #5 - La Chana
- (Best neighbourhood in Granada for families)
- Things to See and Do in La Chana
- Where to Stay in La Chana
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Granada
At A Glance: Where To Stay In Granada
PS Check out the 17 Coolest Hotels in Granada and the best things to do in Granada. If you’re heading to Mallorca, our guides to the 17 epic hotels in Mallorca and 17 amazing things to do in Mallorca will guide you on the holiday of your lifetime!
Where to Stay in Granada
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Granada.
| WHERE TO STAY IN GRANADA | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBVirginia’s BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → |
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BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget Hotel Apartamentos Montesclaros |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeEurostars Washington Irving |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelParador De Granada |
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Book on Booking.com → |
Best Air BnB in Granada – Virginia’s BnB
Virginia’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Granada
At this stay you are getting so much more than just your typical BnB, you will be booking yourself into a proper home! With hardwood floors and sunny rooms, there is no better place in Granada to set the tone for your holiday!
The soft colors and thoughtful touches are just the beginning, the location of this BnB will have you staying in the heart of Granada with all the best sights nearby!
Best Budget Hotel in Granada – Apartamentos Montesclaros
Apartamentos Montesclaros is the best budget hotel in Granada
Apartamentos Montesclaros is a stunning two-star property in Sacromonte. Comprised of comfortable apartments, it has a great rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool with stunning views. Charmingly decorated, each apartment is equipped with a private terrace, coffee facilities and wireless internet access. Surrounded by great restaurants, this property also has a unique on-site restaurant.
Not yet booked your hotel? Take a quick look at our favorite boutique hotels in Seville!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Granada – Eurostars Washington Irving
Eurostars Washington Irving is the best mid-range hotel in Granada
Enjoy five-star luxury at a fraction of the price at the Eurostars Washington Irvine hotel – our top recommendation for where to stay in Granada. This hotel has a sauna, swimming pool, coffee bar and library. It is close to a great variety of bars and restaurants and is a short walk to the city’s top sights.
Best Luxury Hotel in Granada – Parador de Granada
Parador de Granada is the best luxury hotel in Granada
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime stay inside on the grounds the historic Alhambra at the Parador de Granada. Built in a 15th-century convent, this modern and luxurious hotel has a terrace that offers stunning views over the Alhambra gardens. It has a traditional Andalusian restaurant, a stylish lounge bar and free wireless internet access.
Interested in Seville? Read up on the history of Seville!
Granada Neighbourhoods Guide
Granada Neighbourhoods Guide
This is the ultimate guide for where to stay in Granada, Spain
Granada is one of the most interesting and historically significant cities in Southern Spain. A relatively small city, Granada is divided into six main districts.
Only a few of the city’s neighbourhoods are of great interest to travellers. These are mainly centred around Granada’s crown jewel and most famous attraction, the Alhambra.
El Centro is undoubtedly the most famous neighbourhood in Granada. Made up of winding cobbled streets and charming plazas, El Centro is walking distance to the best restaurants, coolest clubs, and the city’s most famous tourist attractions. Perfect for travellers of all ages, anyone visiting Granada for the first time will no doubt love staying in El Centro.
When it comes to enjoying Granada after dark, you’ll want to stay in Realejo. The city’s old Jewish quarter, Realejo is an edgy, alternative and creative neighbourhood that attracts students, artists and party people. No matter the time of day and night, this downtown neighbourhood is buzzing with energy and life.
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
For budget backpackers and culture vultures, head up the hill and stay in Sacromonte and Albaicin. These neighbouring districts are two of the most interesting and coolest areas of the city. They offer stunning views, unique attractions and an insight into traditional Andalusian life.
There’s plenty to see and do in Granada for curious travellers. From dancing the night away and savouring traditional tapas to experiencing its diverse history and culture and exploring the lush natural wonders. No matter your interests, you won’t be bored in this amazing Andalusian city.
Still not sure where to stay in Granada? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
PS Are you heading on to Barcelona? Check out where to stay in Barcelona, the 15 coolest things to do in Barcelona, the best day trips from Barcelona,and our favourite 17 incredible hotels in Barcelona for 2019.
Granada’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a look in greater detail at the best neighbourhoods to stay in Granada. Each is quite different to the last so be sure to check out which is right for you!
Neighborhood #1 - El Centro
Neighborhood #1 - El Centro
(Where to stay in Granada for your first time)
El Centro is our pick for where to stay in Granada on your first time
El Centro is the neighbourhood at the heart of Granada. Located – you guessed it – at the centre of the city, this small historic ‘hood is packed with ancient attractions, stunning architecture, and picturesque plazas.
This is where to stay in Granada if you’re visiting the city for the first time. Not only does it have a great variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and clubs, but is where you’ll find the best shopping, prettiest streets and the city’s top landmarks.
The crown jewel of El Centro – and Granada – is undoubtedly the Alhambra. Part fortress, part palace, the Alhambra is a vast complex of stunning buildings and lush gardens and is one of the best examples of the splendour of the Moorish civilization in southern Spain.
Opulent and otherworldly, the Alhambra stuns visitors with its splendid architecture, ornate decoration and panoramic views. It draws thousands of visitors each year and can be quite busy in the high season. Reserve your tickets online in advance so you won’t miss out on one of the most amazing sights in all of Spain.
Things to See and Do in El Centro
- Explore the magnificent Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex that combines Islamic, Renaissance Christian and modern architectural styles.
- Wander through the historic Plaza Isabel La Catolica at enjoying the sights and sounds of Granada.
- Stand in awe in front of the Granada Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation.
- Browse the stalls at the Alcaiceria, a traditional market where you can find great Andalusian treats, trinkets and souvenirs.
- Cool down with a cold cerveza at Cerveceria 100 Montaditos, a cheap and charming tavern.
- Enjoy flavourful and delicious Morrocan cuisine at Tajine Elvira.
Where to Stay in El Centro
Best Air BnB in El Centro – Fernando’s BnB
Fernando’s BnB is the best Air BnB in El Centro
With wooden beams overhead and stunning views from your window, this Bnb makes for the perfect home away from home while exploring all of the squares and cathedrals of El Centro!
After a day of eating and drinking your heart out at some of the nearby restaurants and bars, there is no better place to end your day than from this cozy apartment!
Best Budget Hotel in El Centro – Room Mate Leo
Room Mate Leo is the best budget hotel in El Centro
This fun and funky three-star hotel is close to all of Granada’s top sights. A short walk from the Alhambra, this hotel is near to restaurants, shops, bars and public transit. Guests will love relaxing after a day of sightseeing on the sun-soaked lounge or in the stylish lounge bar and restaurant.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in El Centro – Gar Anat Hotel Boutique
Gar Anat Hotel Boutique is the best mid-range hotel in El Centro
This elegant three-star hotel is conveniently located in central Granada. It is close to Granada Cathedral and Carrera del Darro. It has a Jacuzzi, massage services as well as babysitting and family facilities. Enjoy a drink at the bar or a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Best Luxury Hotel in El Centro – Parador de Granada
Parador de Granada is the best luxury hotel in El Centro
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience by staying inside the grounds of the historic Alhambra at the Parador de Granada.
Built in a 15th-century convent, this modern and luxurious hotel has a terrace that offers stunning views over the Alhambra gardens. It has a traditional Andalusian restaurant, a stylish lounge bar and free wireless internet access.
Not sure where to say? We’ve put together a list of Madrid’s best hotels!
Neighborhood #2 - Sacromonte
Neighborhood #2 - Sacromonte
(Where to stay in Granada on a budget)
Sacromonte is our pick for where to stay in Granada on a budget
Located in the hills high above the city is the unique neighbourhood of Sacromonte. Traditionally a gipsy settlement, this neighbourhood is filled with winding roads, whitewashed caves, and dwellings built right into the mountainside.
It’s a neighbourhood where time has stood still, and it is the perfect destination if you’re looking to experience an authentic slice of Andalusian life.
Lively and vibrant, Sacromonte is where you’ll find some of the best flamenco in the city. From shows and lessons to impromptu gatherings, the streets and alleys of Sacromonte ring with the infectious sounds of flamenco both day and night.
Ideal for backpackers and travellers on a budget, Sacromonte is also where you’ll find the most option for low-cost accommodations. From rustic cave apartments to charming hotels, this area of the city has something for every budget.
Things to See and Do in Sacromonte
- Enjoy stunning views of the Alhambra as you dine on great food at the Ruta del Azafran restaurant.
- Take a stroll around the Sacromonte Abbey, a 17th-century church that plays an important role in Granada’s cultural and religious history.
- Explore the Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte, a charming museum that details the history of the cave inhabitants. It’s a bit of a climb, but totally worth it.
- See an amazing night of vibrant and lively flamenco dancing at the Cueva la Rocio.
- Hike to the Mirador de San Miguel viewpoint to enjoy unparalleled views of Granada, the Alhambra and the Andalusian countryside.
Where to Stay in Sacromonte
Best Air BnB in Sacromonte – Tomas’s BnB
Tomas’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Sacromonte
This BnB in Sacromonte is by far one of the cutest stays in all of Granada!With its soft colors and decor mixing vintage style and modern comfort, you will be getting ideas on how to decorate your apartment back home!
If you weren’t convinced by the design, wait until you see the location! Putting you right by Alhambra and Plaza Nuevo, you couldn’t ask for a better place to stay!
Best Budget Hotel in Sacromonte – Apartamentos Montesclaros
Apartamentos Montesclaros is the best budget hotel in Sacromonte
Apartamentos Montesclaros is a stunning two-star property in Sacromonte. Comprised of comfortable apartments, it has a great rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool with stunning views.
Charmingly decorated, each apartment has a private terrace, coffee facilities and wireless internet access. Surrounded by great restaurants, this property also has a unique on-site restaurant.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Sacromonte – Carmen Terrazas de la Alhambra
Carmen Terrazas de la Alhambra is the best mid-range hotel in Sacromonte
Made up of eight apartments, this 3.5-star property is your perfect home away from home in Granada. It’s close to shops, restaurants, the Alhambra and many of Granada’s top attractions.
It has a range of amenities and each apartment is fully equipped for a comfortable stay. Enjoy free wifi, a terrace and a garden.
Best Luxury Hotel in Sacromonte – Solar MontesClaros
Solar MontesClaros is the best luxury hotel in Sacromonte
Solar MontesClaros is a centrally located property in the Sacromonte neighbourhood. Each individual apartment has rustic décor, spacious rooms, comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
It has a sun-soaked terrace, a stylish lounge bar, and is within walking distance of restaurants and cafes. A hot breakfast and free wireless internet are also available.
Neighborhood #3 - Realejo
Neighborhood #3 - Realejo
(Best area to stay in Granada for nightlife)
Realejo is our pick for best area to stay in Granada for nightlife
Realejo is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Granada. Located east of the centre, it is the city’s old Jewish quarter that features historic buildings, ornate churches, traditional tapas bars, and winding streets.
It’s also where you’ll find the liveliest nightlife in Granada. This central neighbourhood is filled with some of Granada’s coolest bars and wildest clubs. If you’re looking for fun after dark, look no further than Realejo.
Clustered around Campo Principe are a great variety of pubs and eateries that cater to travellers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Spanish spot or an Irish pub, this Granada neighbourhood has a distinctly foreign and familiar feel.
Realejo is also a paradise for those looking to feast on local cuisine. Thanks to a great number of tapas bars, you can sample the best Andalusian and Spanish snacks – often for free! – while enjoying a pint of local beer or a cocktail or two.
Things to See and Do in Realejo
- Enjoy an amazing meal and great wine at El Claustro, a charming restaurant built in a former convent rectory.
- Dance the night away at Discoteca Aliatar.
- Visit Avila in Realejo for great beer and free traditional Spanish tapas.
- A welcoming atmosphere, excellent drinks and delightful tapas await you at Puerta del Carmen.
- Chill out and relax on a sunny day at Bar Damasqueros.
- Cheap and cheerful, Bar Candela is the ideal place to kick off a night on the town in Granada.
- Dance to great drum, bass, techno and trance music at Sala Quilombo.
- Wander throughout the Campo del Principe, a bustling square packed with tapas restaurants, taverns and bars.
Where to Stay in Realejo
Best Air BnB in Realejo – Fernando’s BnB
Fernando’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Realejo
Although it may be lacking some of the frills of the other BnBs in Granada, this stay makes up with its lack of flash with undeniable charm and an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home!
With its large windows that look out over the quaint streets of Granada, this BnB comes with a spacious bedroom, kitchen, and a living room.
Best Budget Hotel in Realejo – Hotel Las Almenas
Hotel Las Almenas is the best budget hotel in Realejo
Hotel La Almenas is a great hotel for anyone interested in exploring Granada’s nightlife scene. Located in Realejo, it is a short walk to historic landmarks, tapas restaurants, and great bars and clubs. It has a restaurant, hair salon, and each room is well equipped with amenities for a wonderful stay.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Realejo – Eurostars Washington Irving
Eurostars Washington Irving is the best mid-range hotel in Realejo
Enjoy five-star luxury at a fraction of the price at the Eurostars Washington Irvine hotel – our top recommendation for where to stay in Realejo. This hotel has a sauna, swimming pool, coffee bar and library. It is close to a great variety of bars and restaurants and is a short walk to the city’s top sights.
Best Luxury Hotel in Realejo – NH Collection Victoria
NH Collection Victoria is the best luxury hotel in Realejo
The NH Collection Victoria is an elegant and centrally located hotel. Close to shopping, sightseeing, and the entertainment district, this hotel is ideal for exploring Granada. It has a coffee bar, and restaurant and lounge. Each room has its own en-suite bathroom and coffee making facilities.
Neighborhood #4 - Albaicin
Neighborhood #4 - Albaicin
(Coolest place to stay in Granada)
Albaicin is our pick for the coolest place to stay in Granada
Albaicin is far and away the coolest neighbourhood in Granada. The city’s former Arabic quarter, this rustic and charming neighbourhood is now Granada’s creative and artistic centre. It has all the allure of a typical Andalusian village, with whitewashed buildings and snaking alleys, combined with trendy restaurants and hip teahouses.
One of the oldest and most iconic areas of the city, Albaicin is a car-free neighbourhood made up of winding streets lined with cute houses. It’s home to a great variety of shops and boutiques, as well as hip bars and funky restaurants.
Located in the hills between El Centro and Sacromonte, Albaicin is where you’ll find some of the best views in Granada. It is home to a great number of miradors, or viewpoints and is the place to visit to see panoramic and bird’s eye views of Granada, the Alhambra and beyond!
Things to See and Do in Albaicin
- Watch the sunset and enjoy panoramic views of Granada from the Mirador San Nicholas.
- Wander throughout the picturesque Plaza de San Nicolas and enjoy a lively atmosphere at the centre of Albaicin.
- Shop the vibrant and colourful collection of clothes and jewels at La Parada Kuriosa.
- Dine of scrumptious dishes while watching a fascinating flamenco show at Jardines De Zoraya.
- Explore the Patio de Los Perfumes, a 17th century Renaissance palace that features stunning architecture and lush greenery.
- A lively atmosphere, wide variety of drinks and free tapas are just a few of the reasons we recommend a visit to Bar Babel World Fusion.
Where to Stay in Albaicin
Best Air BnB in Albaicin – Juan Carlos’s BnB
Juan Carlos’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Albaicin
If you are wanting your holiday to truly be one for the books, nothing can quite compare with staying in a BnB located in an actual UNESCO heritage site! Putting you right in front of Alhambra, this stay is just as historic as its iconic neighbor!
With exposed brick and sunny rooms, this apartment makes for one of the best places to base yourself out of in all of Granada!
Best Budget Hotel in Albaicin – Shine Albayzin
Shine Albayzin is the best budget hotel in Albaicin
Shine Albayzin is a quaint and charming three-star hotel in Albaicin. It is stylishly decorated and each room has air conditioning, free wifi and a small business centre. Conveniently located near Granada’s top tourist attractions, this hotel is a short walk from the Alhambra, restaurants, bars and more.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Albaicin – Santa Isabel la Real
Santa Isabel la Real is the best mid-range hotel in Albaicin
Charming, authentic, and incredibly cute, this hotel is one of the best hotels in Albaicin. It is a short distance from Granada’s main tourist attractions and is close to shops, restaurants and historic landmarks. Each room is spacious, comfortable and equipped for a great stay.
Best Luxury Hotel in Albaicin – Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada is the best luxury hotel in Albaicin
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada is elegant, luxurious and brimming with charm. This three-star Albaicin hotel is an easy walk to the centre of Granada, the Alhambra, and all of the city’s top tourist attractions and restaurants. Guests will love relaxing in their grand air-conditioned suites.
Neighborhood #5 - La Chana
Neighborhood #5 - La Chana
(Best neighbourhood in Granada for families)
La Chana is our pick for best neighbourhood in Granada for families
La Chana is a cheap and cheerful neighbourhood in northwestern Granada. A short 10-minute bus ride outside of the city, La Chana is a neighbourhood full of life.
One of the most popular residential districts in the city, La Chana is where to stay in Granada if you’re travelling with children. It is one of the greenest districts in the city and is where you’ll find a great number of parks and playgrounds perfect for entertaining excited mini-travellers.
La Chana is also a great place to tease your taste buds by sampling traditional Spanish foods. Whether you opt for a myriad of tapas or a large portion of paella, this neighbourhood is where you satisfy your hunger at a very reasonable price.
But there’s more to La Chana than great food. This neighbourhood is also where you’ll find significant religious sites as well as open-air museums, concert halls, and bustling commercial boulevards.
PS If you’re heading around Europe, be sure to check out the top things to do in Europe, rated by our team of expert travel guides.
Things to See and Do in La Chana
- Wander along Calle Circunvalación Encina.
- Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing afternoon in Parque Almunia de Aynadamar.
- Excite your taste buds at Meson el Cordobes de Jose Peregrina, where you’ll find great Spanish dishes and a child-friendly atmosphere.
- Explore the Azucarera San Isidro, an open-air museum in a former sugar factory.
- Catch a concert or performance at the Sala El Tren.
- Enjoy hot, delicious and fresh pizza at the Restaurante Pizzeria Romana.
- Good tapas and a great environment, La Isla restaurant is the perfect place for a family dinner.
- Browse the shops and tapas bars that line the lively and bustling Calle Sagrada Familia.
Where to Stay in La Chana
Best Air BnB in La Chana – Pablo’s BnB
Pablo’s BnB is the best Air BnB in La Chana
Wanting a break from your typical BnB? This apartment has an ultra-modern style that will be pampering you with every comfort imaginable! With loads of space, this flat is perfect for travelers in big groups!
Complete with 2 bedrooms and a cozy living room, this BnB will have you vacationing in style while in La Chana!
Best Budget Hotel in La Chana – Camino de Granada Hotel
Camino de Granada Hotel is the best budget hotel in La Chana
This chic three-star hotel is conveniently located in La Chana. It is a short drive to the city centre and is close to a great variety of tapas restaurants. Outfitted in traditionally Spanish décor, each room has comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms. It has a fitness centre, pool and relaxing sun deck.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in La Chana – Santa Isabel la Real
Santa Isabel la Real is the best mid-range hotel in La Chana
This charming hotel is our top pick for where to stay in La Chana. Located within a refurbished historical townhouse, this authentic Andalusian hotel has a terrace, courtyard, and stunning views of the Alhambra. Each room has great Spanish décor, air conditioning and internet access.
Best Luxury Hotel in La Chana – El Ladron de Agua
El Ladron de Agua is the best luxury hotel in La Chana
A convenient location, spacious rooms and elegant décor are just a few of the reasons we love this La Chana hotel. The perfect hotel year round, El Ladron de Agua is close to ski facilities in the winter and tourist attractions in the summer. It has a restaurant, lounge bar and a number of family facilities.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
It’s easy to see why Granada is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. With its rich history and the Alhambra, its wild nightlife and scrumptious food scene, it is a small city that packs a big punch.
Just to recap; El Centro is our number one choice for where to stay in Granada. Not only is it home to Granada’s most famous attractions, but it is where you’ll find yourself at the centre of the action both day and night.
Our top pick for the best hotel in Granada is the Eurostars Washington Irving because you can enjoy five-star luxury, service and wellness amenities at a fraction of the price!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below. Happy travels and have a safe trip to Granada, Spain!
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About the Author Emma Johnson
Emma Johnson lives to travel! Born in Washington D.C., Emma is a hotel connoisseur and a staff writer at Hotel Jules. An army brat, Emma got the travel bug early and has never been able to stop. Now, she has proudly visited 70+ countries and plans to visit every country in the world! Passionate about her ukelele (obviously) and her family, Emma eventually wants to retire in Thailand and write a book about all of her travel experiences.