City Info

Fabulous as it is, the Alhambra is not the only sight to see. When the Christian armies regained Granada they built their own city on the banks of the river beneath. Centered on the Renaissance cathedral, it also includes the Capilla Real, where the all-conquering Ferdinand and Isabel are interred, narrow bazaar-like streets built over the old Moorish souks and the old square of Bib-Rambla, where bullfights, book burnings and fiestas were once held.

On the hill opposite the Alhambra, visit the old Moorish residential quarter of Albaicin. Alleyways snake up the steep hillside and emerge unexpectedly at graceful archways and little squares with Moorish fountains, from which you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Alhambra.

Also, if you're there the right time of year, you might want to know that the Sierra Nevada ski station is only 20 mi/35 km away in the nearby mountains and has good skiing, decent hotels, restaurants and equipment rental shops.