Free things to do in Granada – explore the cool, fun neighborhoods, great vistas and the historic district absolutely free
Granada is a total tourist town with many attractions that typically require some payment to enter. But, if I were to share some free things to do in Granada of the best attractions, must visit places, neighborhoods and activities, you would be surprised by what you can see for free or inexpensive entry. Save your tourist dollars for those delicious meals and souvenirs and we will show you the best of visiting Granada for free so keep reading on.
Find the free things to do in Granada, Spain below
Now in order to do a lot of these free things, you definitely have to do some walking and even uphill on your own. If you want to splurge on a local bus they are relatively inexpensive like the regular small bus service up to the Alhambra of the city.
Here are the following attractions and activities to enjoy in the city in no particular order.
Visit the Alhambra of Granada for free
Now we are not talking about visiting the Nasrid, Generalife and other palaces which actually cost quite a bit for the guided tours, but you can actually visit the hilltop site and see a lot of things for free up at the Alhambra of Granada. This includes the following:
Explore the Charles V Palace
The main palace of Charles V is free to enter with some of the museums open and also free to explore and enjoy. You can visit the palace grounds and interiors for free when you get up to the Alhambra.
Check out the Alhambra Hammam
The Moorish baths are located close to the Charles V Palace and are also free to visit the historic bath houses of the Alhambra and fun to read some of the placards around the site.
Check out the Many gates of the Alhambra
The main entrance gates to the Alhambra are quite ornate and give you a glimpse of the details and design or motifs that you will see in the rest of the palaces. These gates are free to visit and explore. The main gates you can see includes:
Several historic gates lead up to the Alhambra in Granada, each with its own significance. Here are the main ones:
Puerta de las Granadas
Located at the entrance to the Alhambra complex, this Renaissance-style gate marks the beginning of the ascent. The name “Granadas” refers to pomegranates, the symbol of Granada.
Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice)
One of the most famous gates, it served as the main entrance to the Alhambra during the Nasrid period. It features a distinctive horseshoe arch and was historically used for judicial purposes, hence the name.
Puerta del Vino (Wine Gate)
This smaller gate leads into the Alhambra’s inner area and connects different sections of the complex. The origin of its name is debated, but it may refer to the wine trade that once occurred nearby.
Puerta de los Siete Suelos (Gate of the Seven Floors)
This gate has a rich history, including being the entrance used by the Catholic Monarchs when they entered Granada after its conquest. Legend says this gate cannot be fully rebuilt to prevent the return of Moorish rule.
These gates not only served practical purposes but also symbolize the rich architectural and cultural history of the Alhambra.
Check out the Cannons of the Alhambra
The cannons of the Alhambra are located at Plaza de los Aljibes, a large open area situated between the Alcazaba (the military fortress) and the entrance to the palaces within the Alhambra complex. The square was originally built over the cisterns (or “aljibes”) that provided water to the fortress. You’ll find the viewpoint here is spectacular and worth some selfies.
Visit the Parador of the Alhambra
The Parador of the Alhambra is a unique hotel located within the Alhambra complex, offering a rare opportunity to stay in a historic setting. The Parador is housed in a former Franciscan convent dating back to the 15th century. It combines the charm of its historical architecture with modern comforts, making it an exceptional place to experience Granada’s rich heritage.
This Parador is especially popular due to its beautiful surroundings, including peaceful gardens and terraces that overlook the Alhambra’s palaces and the city of Granada below. Guests have the privilege of enjoying stunning views and direct access to the Alhambra, which is a few steps away. Inside, the Parador maintains traditional Andalusian elements, such as tiled floors and wooden ceilings, creating an atmosphere that reflects the area’s Moorish and Christian influences.
Even if you don’t have any intentions on staying a visit is free, the views spectacular and if you want to splurge a lunch with views of the Generalife are quite special when you visit the Parador.
Gardens around the Parador of the Alhambra
The gardens surrounding the parador are beautiful and the lower gardens which are actually a part of the Alhambra with views of the Generalife are spectacular to explore and they are free to do. You can get a free look at the gardens and views and enjoy a part of the Alhambra experience for free doing this.
Walk around the Alhambra other landmarks and vista points
There are so many fantastic viewpoint to enjoy of the city below, fountains and even the walk down to the city is quite nice to do, so you can take your time and enjoy your visit to the Alhambra absolutely free of charge.
Visit the Cathedral of Granada
Most of the cathedrals of Spain require some entrance fee but Granada’s cathedral is free (for now) and located in the central historic district downtown.
The Cathedral of Granada, also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is one of the most impressive Renaissance churches in Spain. Located in the heart of the city, it was built on the site of a former mosque after the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, conquered Granada in 1492. Construction began in 1523, and although it was initially planned in a Gothic style, the design shifted to Renaissance under architect Diego de Siloé.
Check out the cathedral’s interior and details
The cathedral’s exterior is striking, with a grand façade featuring intricate carvings and columns, while the interior is vast and elegant, characterized by towering white columns and high arches. Its chapels are filled with beautiful artwork, including paintings and sculptures by renowned Spanish artists.
Check out more details to visiting the Granada Cathedral here for more information and when you can visit.
Check out the Moorish marketplace
Close to the Cathedral in the Moorish marketplace called The Alcaicería with exotic goods of Moorish influence mostly from Morrocco or China, depending on the price point you paid for the inexpensive stuff. Window shopping is absolutely free but expect to bargain if you want to take home some souvenirs or gifts to bring home.
Check out more detail to visiting the Alcaiceria marketplace here for more details and inspiration.
Free walking tours at the historic center and neighborhoods of Albaicín and Sacromonte
Sign up for free tours of Granada’s historic center and Albaicin and Sacromonte neighborhoods. With these free guided tours you are under the tutelage of someone who knows the city well and is a good storyteller and sharing interest facts and details to Granada’s glorious past. Even though these tours are operated by different companies, you can always leave a tip as a gesture of appreciation depending on how you felt the overall tour was based on your experience. If you want to take free walking tours, check out these free tour outfitters free guided tours of Granada,
Visit a museum or Art Gallery
There are many galleries and museums open to the public and on certain days many of these museums are free to enter. This includes the Library of the Gomez-Moreno Institute, the Centro Jose Guerrero, The Centro Cultural CajaGranada de Puerta Real, the Pupa tattoo art gallery and a few of the historic living home museums in the Albaicin including the Albaicin Hammam.
Take in the view from Plaza de San Nicolas
Viewpoints from above from the Plaza de San Nicolas in the Albaicin Neiborhood are fantastic especially around sunset timeframe. OVerlooking the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges in the back is pretty spectacular. Up at the plaza you’ll also find locals hanging out, playing music, dancing and enjoying end of day festivities or just company with friends.
Enjoy the free and popular festivals of Granada
You’ll find that there are two local festivals in Granada that are quite lively and fun to experience.
Corpus Christi Festival
A religious festival that lasts a week and celebrates the conquests of Granada by the Catholic monarchs incorporating a procession and the regional celebration with many attractions, food and craft booths, bullring activities, flamenco performances and constant partying..
Dia de la Cruz
Every year thousands of visitors come from all over Spain to experience this festival called Dia De la Cruz or Day of the Cross to commemorate the erection of an alabaster cross in 1625 in the district of San Lazaro and locals celebrate by singing and dancing around it. The celebration continues in the popular districts of the Albaicin and Realejo districts with children building small altarts of a cross and decorated with various copper or ceramic pottery and the tradition of putting an apple with a pair of scissors into the decoration.
Holy week and Easter
Festivities to this Catholic celebration to mark Palm Sunday up to Easter Sunday for 8 days including Good Friday. You will typically find the Holy Week of Semana Santa with religious processions to include floats that carry Christ and the Virgin, in elaborate thrones. The procession through the Albaicin includes the procession of the Virgen de la Auroroa and the Conception.
Local home churches participate to the late hours around the Cerrera del Darro with ‘ El Silencio’ procession and ‘el Cristo de los Gitanos (Christ of the Gypsies.
Visit the Realejo neighborhood
This is the Old Jewish quarter of Granada and one of the most historic places to explore with cobbled and narrow streets that past through a labyrinth of streets and beautiful street art of the artist Rual Ruiz better known as El Nino de las Pinturas. You’ll find his murals often accompanies with peoms or phrases that have an impact. You can explore the Casa de los Tiros ( Museum of artillery), the church of Santo Domingo or stop for tapas, coffe or drinks at the many eateries in the neighborhood. If you head uphill, you’ll find some magnificent views of the city to check out.
Take a walk along the scenic Carrera del Darro
This beautiful walking promenade faces the River Darro on one side and the historic old quarter streets of the Albaicin district. It’s a nice walk along the riverfront on mostly old cobblestone streets with artisanal shops, beautiful churches, museums and old Moorish influence architecture to enjoy. Stop along the Paseo de los Tristes where you can find a variety of bars and restaurants to relax and enjoy a drink or some tapas. There is also a few museums that are free to visit certain days of the week to enter and learn about the area and buildings.
Night fun hanging out at the plazas of Granada
Nights in Granada are festive but popular at the many plazas around the city lined with bars, restaurants, coffee shops and places to hang out. Locals also love to just stroll and window shop and with all the galleries and shops illuminated, it’s a fun and free way of entertainment at night and just enjoying the local vibe here.
Popular plazas of Granada to hang out at night include:
Plaza Nueva
This is one of Granada’s busiest squares, especially in the evening. Surrounded by bars, restaurants, and tapas spots, it’s a great place to grab a drink and people-watch. Its central location makes it a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists.
Plaza Bib-Rambla
A charming square filled with cafés, terraces, and restaurants, Plaza Bib-Rambla has a lively yet laid-back atmosphere at night. The central fountain and surrounding flower stands make it a picturesque place to enjoy a meal or drink outdoors.
Plaza de San Nicolás
Famous for its stunning views of the Alhambra, Plaza de San Nicolás becomes magical at night, especially with street musicians adding to the ambiance. Though it’s more of a lookout point than a typical square, it’s a great place to hang out and take in the view.
Plaza del Carmen
Located near the town hall, this square is often lively in the evening with events and gatherings. Nearby streets offer a range of tapas bars and dining options, making it a great spot to start or end the night.
Campo del Príncipe
Located in the Realejo district, this large square is a favorite for locals to relax, especially at night when it’s surrounded by open-air restaurants and bars. It has a casual vibe and is less touristy than the central squares, ideal for a more authentic experience.
These squares offer a mix of lively nightlife, local flavor, and beautiful views, making them perfect for evening relaxation or socializing in Granada.
Corral del Carbon
The Corral del Carbon is a historical site located in the central district with historical presence built originally in the 14th century as one of several Corn Exchange centers. Merchants would use these places for business purposes of different opportunities. It had different uses over time as a house, an open theatre and other things. Now it’s a tourist attraction. In later times, after it was reclaimed by the Christians from the Moors, it was also used as a coal exchange where the name is given.
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Conclusion on free things to do in Granada, Spain
Granada is a city full of history, culture, and beauty, with plenty of free activities to enjoy. From exploring the iconic Alhambra’s surroundings and wandering through the Albaicín’s narrow streets, to visiting the city’s stunning churches like the Cathedral or enjoying the scenic views from the Mirador de San Nicolás, Granada offers countless experiences without a price tag. You can also take free guided tours to dive deeper into the city’s rich past. Whether you’re strolling through lively plazas, soaking in the atmosphere, or enjoying free tapas with your drink, Granada proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to have a memorable time.
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