Destination Inspiration: Granada, Spain

Why go?

Siestas are a waste of time in Granada. Scenic squares, a thriving tapas culture and Moorish architecture demand your full attention – and that’s before clapping eyes on the Alhambra, the Moors’ final European stronghold. The astonishing detail of this mighty fortress evokes a heaven-on-earth feel.

Across the valley, the gloriously ramshackle Albaicín stretches uphill in a maze of cobbled alleys and whitewashed houses. Getting lost is virtually guaranteed, but there’s a special treat waiting up top. El Mirador de San Nicolás frames the Alhambra against the snow-dusted Sierra Nevada beautifully – and there’s always some husky-voiced buskers floating flamenco melodies across the square.

Most seductive of all is the gypsy barrio of Sacromonte: here, locals still ride donkeys and live in cave-houses. Spend an evening at Zambra María la Canastera for some stirring Flamenco, before joining the hippies for a puff of shisha to watch the sun go down.

When to go?

Granada enjoys sunshine and blue skies virtually throughout the year, but it can get quite chilly during winter, and extremely hot during summer. For balmier temperatures, go in April for a late-season ski, or at the beginning of June for Feria – the biggest party of the year.

Where to stay?

Apartamentos Turísticos Mauror – Granada, Spain

Located beside Puerta de las Granadas – the gateway to the Alhambra – Apartamentos Turisticos Mauror is about as close to the grand palace as you can get. The modern pads also boast a shared terrace with sweeping views, and a hospitable hostess who always never fails to impress Booking.com guests.

Apartamento Jacaranda – Granada, Spain

This cosy apartment is ideally located for history buffs, with both Granada’s towering Cathedral and Royal Chapel just a few steps away. But Apartamento Jacaranda’s winning feature is its hard-working staff, who always ensure Booking.com guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Alhambra Slowhomes – Granada, Spain

For something with extra space and flexibility, Alhambra Slowhomes sets the bar. Its central location amidst an array of rustic tapas bars gets the nod from Booking.com guests, who also highly rate the spotless interior, modern décor and king-size beds.

Casa de los Neveros – Granada, Spain

Nestled in the lower Albaicín, Casa de los Neveros boasts one of the best vistas in town according to Booking.com guests. At night, you can watch the sky slowly change colour over the Alhambra from the property’s private terrace, before heading down to Carrera del Darro for a tapas-fuelled evening.

Apartamentos Caballerizas – Granada, Spain

Apartamentos Caballerizas offer all the pros of a city centre location without the cons. Busy bars and restaurants are just a short walk away, while the building’s quiet side-street locale means there’s no danger of being rudely awoken at night. The welcoming staff also get rave reviews from Booking.com guests.