Central Granada's Architectural Highlights: A Self-Guided Tour

Granada , Spain

Central Granada's Architectural Highlights: A Self-Guided Tour

Active

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Granada’s Old Town is steeped in layer upon layer of fascinating history. Wandering through its cobbled lanes with an architect to guide you will open your eyes to hidden details that you might otherwise miss.

On this self-guided walking tour of central Granada with local architect and licensed guide, Manuel, you’ll hear about the city’s thousand-year-old past, and some of the notable people who lived here.

The tour starts in the historic Realejo neighborhood, next to Fuente de las Batallas, the well-known fountain in Plaza del Campillo. As you wander through Granada’s enchanting streets and vibrant squares, I’ll tell you about the origin of the city. I’ll also show you some of the heritage left by the Islamic Nasrid culture, in places like Convento de San Francisco Casa Grande (a convent in a former old mosque) and Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo, a heritage museum.

Available options

Central Granada's Architectural Highlights: A Self-Guided Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Plaza de las Batallas is a lively square in the city center of Granada, and where we begin the tour.

We will pass by the entrance of Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo, the only Nasrid Palace we have by the city center. However, the entry to this monument is not included in this tour.

We are going to see the exterior of one of the first buildings created after the Castillian conquest of the city in 1492. The entry is not included in the tour.

Corral del Carbón is a 14th century building with a fantastic history that we are going to discover while walking.

Stop 5 Pass by

This charming neighbourhood is one of the must-see's on this tour.

The old Koranic University of Granada is still standing and we are going to take a look at what it offers.

Stop 7 Pass by

We will see the exteriors of the Royal Chapel of Granada to discover who was buried here. The entry to this monument is not included in the tour.

Stop 8 Pass by

We will walk past the exteriors of the first renaissance cathedral in Spain. However, entry to the Cathedral is not included in the tour.

We will pass by the main organization, created in honor of the poet Federico Garcia Lorca. The entrance is not included.

Stop 10 Pass by

The tour will end outside of the Monastery.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at Fuente de las Batallas. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Granada

Granada is a city in southern Spain known for its rich Moorish heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to the iconic Alhambra, a breathtaking palace and fortress complex that stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and architectural brilliance.

Top Attractions

Alhambra

The Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex that stands as a testament to the Moorish heritage of Granada. It is one of the most visited monuments in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Architecture 3-4 hours €14-€27

Albaicín

Albaicín is a historic Moorish district known for its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for its unique charm and cultural significance.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Sacromonte

Sacromonte is a gypsy quarter known for its cave houses, flamenco performances, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life in Granada.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, flamenco shows vary in price

Cathedral of Granada

The Cathedral of Granada is a stunning example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Spain and a must-visit for its historical and architectural significance.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours €5

Granada Science Park

The Granada Science Park is an interactive science museum that offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It features a planetarium, aquarium, and various interactive exhibits.

Museum/Science 2-3 hours €6-€12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tapa

A small dish typically served with drinks, often free with the purchase of a beverage. Common tapas include olives, cheese, ham, and seafood.

Appetizer Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Gazpacho

A cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil. It is refreshing and perfect for hot summer days.

Soup Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

Salmorejo

A thick, cold soup made from tomatoes, bread, garlic, and olive oil, often topped with ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Soup Vegetarian option available (without ham and eggs)

Plato Alpujarreño

A traditional dish from the Alpujarras region, featuring a variety of meats (such as ham, sausage, and pork), potatoes, eggs, and sometimes blood sausage.

Main Course Contains meat and pork products

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sierra Nevada Rock climbing Mountain biking Beach relaxation in Nerja Spa treatments Strolling through Albaicín Visiting the Alhambra Exploring Albaicín and Sacromonte

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

This is the best time to visit Granada as the weather is pleasant, and the city is not overly crowded. It's perfect for exploring the outdoors and visiting the Alhambra.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Granada is generally safe for travelers, but common sense and basic precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as markets and tourist attractions
• Use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging
• Be wary of distractions and common scams, such as fake petitions or spilled drinks

Getting there

By air

Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Granada Station

By bus

Granada Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Albaicín Sacromonte Realejo Alaycín

Day trips

Alpujarras

70 km from Granada • Full day

The Alpujarras is a picturesque region in the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for its white villages, terraced landscapes, and traditional way of life. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Andalusian culture and stunning natural beauty.

Sierra Nevada

30 km from Granada • Full day

Sierra Nevada is a stunning mountain range offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. The area is also home to the famous Pradollano ski resort.

Nerja

50 km from Granada • Half day to full day

Nerja is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and the famous Balcón de Europa, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Festivals

Feria de Granada • August (dates vary) Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary) Corpus Christi • May or June (dates vary)

Pro tips

Book tickets for the Alhambra well in advance, as they sell out quickly
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Take advantage of the free tapas tradition by trying different bars and restaurants
Visit the Alhambra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and immerse yourself in the culture