Albayzín
Explore the city’s oldest neighbourhood
Extending uphill from the Darro River, the Albayzín is Granada’s historical Islamic quarter and a Unesco World Heritage Site. Climb through cobbled streets and buzzy plazas to reach the Mirador de San Nicolás lookout, which has unmatched views of the Sierra Nevada’s peaks. Other highlights include the Iglesia del Salvador, a 16th-century church built from an earlier mosque, and the Iglesia de San Nicolás, also from the 16th century, where you can clamber up the bell tower.
Insider tip: For a quieter viewpoint, head a little further up to the Mirador de San Miguel Alto above the Sacromonte district. Cicerone runs guided tours weaving through the Albayzín.
Website: turismo.granada.org
Price: Free
Museo Arqueológico y Etnológico de Granada
Learn about Granada’s ancient past
The city’s engaging archaeology museum inhabits a beautifully restored 16th-century noble home overlooking the Darro River, which still retains an original artesonado ceiling (interlaced wooden beams) on its grand staircase. Don’t miss the views of the Alhambra’s palaces from the upper gallery. Collections sweep through the Granada region’s history from the Paleolithic era onwards, including a famous human tooth unearthed near Orce dating back 1.4 million years.
Insider tip: Just a few steps away from the museum are some of Spain’s best-preserved historical Moorish baths. They’re known as El Bañuelo, and are believed to date from the 11th or 12th century.
Website: museosdeandalucia.es
Price: £
Basílica de San Juan de Dios
Step into a beautifully ornate Baroque church
Not far from Gran Vía, this richly decorated mid-18th-century basilica still flies under the radar. A tile-covered dome looms above, but the big surprise is revealed as you wander into the lavish interior, which sparkles with gilded walls, vivid frescoes and wood-carved corners. The building’s artistic pinnacle is the gold altarpiece, with its hidden alcove said to contain the remains of Saint John of God.
Insider tip: The basilica is easily paired with a visit to the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, just a couple of minutes’ walk away, which dates from the 16th century and has a Gothic cloister filled with orange trees.
Website: basilicasanjuandedios.es
Price: ££