Where to Stay in Granada – The Ultimate Guide

Where to stay in Granada: Granada is a charming city in southern Spain known for its Moorish architecture and rich cultural heritage. With so many accommodation options, deciding where to stay in Granada can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide provides insider tips on the best neighborhoods and hotels to choose from to make your Granada vacation perfect.

Best Hotels In Granada – For Families, Couples, Work Trips, Luxury & Budget

Overview of Granada’s Neighborhoods

Before picking a place to stay, it’s helpful to understand the lay of the land in Granada. Here’s a quick overview of the top neighborhoods for visitors:

Albaicín

• Bohemian vibe with winding streets and stunning views of the Alhambra
• Lots of traditional restaurants, shops, and lively nightlife
• Close to main sights but involves some uphill walking

Realejo

• Central location by Cathedral and Plaza Nueva
• Combination of tourist sites and local culture
• Quieter than Albaicín but still within walking distance to main areas

Centro

• In the heart of the action near Bib-Rambla and Plaza Nueva
• Convenient for sightseeing but can be noisy and crowded
• Wide range of lodging from modern hotels to budget pensions

Sacromonte

• Hilltop gypsy quarter with cave houses and panoramic vistas
• Most remote location, so ideal for a quiet, scenic stay
• Be prepared to climb uphill and take buses/taxis around

Best Hotels in Granada

Now let’s dive into the top hotel recommendations in Granada’s best neighborhoods for visitors:

Hospes Palacio de los Patos – Luxury Hotel in Centro

If you want to indulge in 5-star luxury right in the center of town, this beautifully restored palace is the perfect splurge. The rooms seamlessly blend classic and contemporary design with top-notch amenities. Don’t miss the phenomenal spa, rooftop terrace, or gourmet restaurant.

Location: Centro – near Cathedral Price: $$$

Santa Isabel La Real – Boutique Hotel in Albaicín

To immerse yourself in the romance and beauty of the Albaicín, book this exquisite 19th-century restored palace. Each room is uniquely decorated with lavish details like wood beams and Spanish tiles. You’ll feel like royalty gazing out at the stunning vista of the Alhambra from the rooftop pool.

Location: Albaicín – near Mirador San Nicolás Price: $$

Hotel Casa 1800 – Elegant Hotel in Realejo

This charming boutique hotel features a sophisticated design with traditional Andalusian touches in a central yet peaceful location. Relax in the lovely courtyard and library lounge, or socialize over complimentary afternoon tea and snacks. It’s perfect for experiencing local culture.

Location: Realejo – near Plaza Nueva Price: $$

Santa Cruz Hotel – a cozy 2-star small hotel in the center

For budget-friendly accommodations in the heart of the action, the Santa Cruz is a top choice. The simple, tidy rooms are comfortable and quiet. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and ideal location near tapas bars, and sights.

Location: Centro – near Plaza Nueva Price: $

Best Apartments and B&Bs in Granada

If you prefer an apartment or bed and breakfast over a standard hotel, Granada has many charming local options:

• Casa Morisca – historic Albaicín apartment with Alhambra views
• La Casa de la Sabica – peaceful modern apartments with a pool in Realejo
• Carmen de la Alcubilla – gorgeously rustic Albaicín B&B in a traditional house
• Hotel Palacio de Los Navas – apartments with kitchens near Plaza Nueva
• Abadía Hotel – apartments with cathedral views in the center

Make sure to book early for the best selection. B&Bs and apartments provide a cozy, authentic way to experience life in Granada like a local.

Where to Stay in Granada for Nightlife

To enjoy Granada’s famous nightlife scene, look for lodging in these party-friendly neighborhoods:

• Albaicín – lively bars and late-night flamenco shows in caves
• Near Plaza Nueva – tapas hopping on the main street Calle Elvira
• Calderería Nueva – popular with students and backpackers for cheap drinks
• Pedro Antonio de Alarcón – trendy area with cocktail bars and clubs

Staying central gives you the most options for hitting Granada’s buzzing nightlife.

Where to Stay on a Budget

Granada has plenty of affordable accommodation if you’re traveling on a budget:

• Hostels – book a bunk bed for as low as $15-20/night
• Pensions – simple guesthouses with cheaper rates than hotels
• Apartments – find deals on sites like Airbnb for full apartments
• Avoid peak season – prices are lower in the summer when it’s very hot
• Free walking tours – tip-based tours are a cheap way to see the sights
• Eat tapas and street food – get full on small plates for just a few Euros

With some savvy planning, you can enjoy an affordable Granada getaway even on a tight budget.

Getting Around Granada

Granada is very walkable, but be prepared for hills! Here are some tips:

• The center and main neighborhoods are compact and best explored on foot
• Bring comfortable shoes – Albaicín, in particular, has steep, narrow streets
• Taxis are handy for getting between farther neighborhoods like Sacromonte
• The bus system is also suitable for connecting outer areas
• Take the minibus up to the Alhambra if you don’t feel like hiking up

When choosing where to stay, factor in accessibility and your mobility.

When to Visit Granada

Granada’s weather varies significantly by season:

Spring: comfortable (60-70F), occasional rain, lively with sights and culture

Summer: very hot (up to 104F), lighter crowds at tourist sites, evening events

Fall: pleasantly warm (70-80F), fewer tourists, nice for sightseeing

Winter: chilly (40-55F), some rain, Christmas markets and ski getaways nearby

The most ideal times are spring and fall when the weather is mildest. But the low season in winter brings cheaper prices if you don’t mind brisk weather.

Conclusion

With its picturesque neighborhoods, Moorish palaces, lively tapas culture, and stunning natural backdrop, Granada is a delightful destination where traditional history meets youthful energy. Spend a few days exploring the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicín, admiring picturesque views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, and ending your evenings hopping between sultry flamenco bars and convivial tapas joints. Granada’s diversity of high-quality accommodations means you’ll find the ideal spot to soak up the genuine Andalusian atmosphere.