15 Best Free & Cheap Things To Do In Granada 2025
After spending two weeks in Spain, traveling from the United States, we gained valuable knowledge and experience regarding the best things to do in Granada. From flamenco and cathedrals to tapas and shopping there is so much to explore.
We always try to travel frugally, from flights to free or cheap things to do, self guided tours or guided experiences, we aim to get the biggest bang for our buck wherever we may be. We already put in the work of researching a visit to Granada and have first hand experience we would love to pass on to you.
If you are thinking of visiting Spain, read on for the best things to do in Granada from someone who has been there and experienced it first hand.
15 Best Things To Do In Granada
I LOVE to research, so when planning a trip to a new place I always like to deep dive and review some options first to get a good mix of free, cheap and a few splurge experiences to choose from.
I find that by researching first it helps to make sure we don’t miss out on something we would really like to experience just because it’s not offered on a certain day or time etc. A little bit of advanced planning goes a long way.
Lucky for you, I’ve taken the guesswork out of it and have included all the best things to do in Granada so you can plan YOUR perfect trip.
1. The Alhambra, Generalife & Nasrid Palace
The Alhambra Palace is a must see in Granada, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited attraction in all of Spain (for good reason). This falls in the splurge category by our standards, starting around $73 per ticket for all three entrance passes but it is totally worth it.
You can easily spend an entire day here as the grounds cover 35 acres. If you love history, architecture, or gardens this is the place for you. Bring your camera and your walking shoes and prepare to tour the palace with your mouth hanging open in awe.
*I would suggest Viator to book tickets for ease of purchase as the official website is a bit tricky to navigate if Spanish is not your first language. Tickets do sell out quickly and very far in advance so book as soon as possible.
2. Flamenco Show
Flamenco originated in the Andalusia province in Seville and Granada, so taking in a show in Flamenco’s “birthplace” is another do not miss activity. It was really exciting as music lovers to notice the almost jazz like improve style of Flamenco. The passionate dance and music combined was unlike anything we have experienced before.
There are several options of where to take in a show. Some are located in a cave for an ultra unique experience and others are available within walking distance of downtown accommodations where you can take in a performance after walking the plaza or grabbing a bite to eat.
*There are many options to choose from, select the location that works best for your itinerary, here. Most of the shows are in intimate settings with seating for a small crowd which adds a personal feel to the expressive performance.
3. Rent A Bike – Explore The Rural Side Of Granada
Being that we are avid cyclists, a bike rental opportunity is always running through our minds. In the heart of Granada there is a bike rental shop, La Estación that offers rental bikes in any style you can imagine.
From mountain bikes to gravel or e-bikes they have whatever you like to ride. Daily rental rates from €30-40 gives you lots of options to travel farther than walking can take you.
Bring along a little picnic of some bread, cheese and olives from any local panadería and enjoy the views of the city and the Sierra Nevada.
4. The Archeological Museum of Granada
This small museum is really lovely and with an admission price of only €1.50 it can’t be beat for an affordable activity option. Color brochures are provided in English which guide you through the museum.
The archaeological museum of Granda houses one of only 40 preserved astrolabes (Circa 1481) in the world. An astrolabe is basically a compass to the stars which aids in navigation.
Exploring the pottery, 75,000 year old neanderthal remains and ancient navigation tools at this museum will surely bring out your inner Indiana Jones. You can exit and continue along a lovely river walk just outside the doors of the institution as well.
5. Arab Bath- Spa Experience
Looking for a relaxing activity for you and your partner? Look no further than an authentic Arab Bath spa experience.
The city of Granada has a strong Moorish heritage dating back to the 11th century. The architecture and tradition of the baths or hammams, are preserved at these establishments to recreate the experience of these social gathering places in present day.
Spa services range from €40-50 and towels are provided, you only need a bathing suit and flip flops or sandals to enjoy some relaxation time at the baths. They also provide tea and snacks as well.
6. Take A Cooking Class
What better than cooking and eating local cuisine all while learning another language? This class is not only about cooking a traditional dish, it will also help you to develop your Spanish language skills.
By taking a cooking class through CookEle you will not only get to eat a delicious meal you made yourself, you will also be immersing yourself in the local culture.
Each workshop lasts three hours, available Monday-Friday – mornings from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm and evenings from 6:00 to 9:00pm (from June to July) and from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm or 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm (from September to May). The month of August is closed for holidays.
7. Albaicín & Sacromonte
The cave houses and Muslim/gypsy neighborhoods of the Sacromonte area are a unique feature of Granada.
At under $45 per ticket, it’s an affordable option for a nice evening out. Tours last about two and a half hours and are offered by local guides.
*Book a guided tour of this amazing culturally rich area at sunset here and enjoy views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada throughout.
8. Tapas And Wine Tour
You cannot visit Granada without sampling some tapas and local wine. Whether you prefer to find your own way or want to grab a guided tour there are lots of options.
Eat like a local and enjoy shared plates, conversation, and maybe even try something new. We currently do not drink alcohol during this chapter of our lives, but the vast majority of restaurants we visited offered an NA option for the digestif that is traditionally brought out after your meal.
*Viator has a very affordable tour under $90 per person that includes wine, tapas and cured ham, also known as Ibérico ham which is a widely known delicacy in the area. We lovingly refer to it as “fancy ham” and ate A LOT of it while in country.
9. Basilica De San Juan Dios
The Basilica of San Juan Dios is absolutely stunning and tickets start at only €10. Alternatively you could admire the architecture from the outside for free, but if you can swing the entry fee the golden interior is a sight to behold.
There is a light show daily at 6 pm and tickets also include access to a virtual reality immersive experience.
The website to book tickets has many language options so it’s easy to book online here. There are also guided tours offered in Spanish and English on specific dates so be sure to check the dates and times available if you would like a guided tour in your preferred language.
It is definitely worth noting that we ran into this in other cities as well. English tours were only offered on certain days so it’s important to check that out ahead of time so you can get in on one you can understand!
10. Granada Monuments Tour
You do not need to be religious to appreciate the breathtaking architecture of the cathedrals, monasteries and chapels of Granda.
You can actually purchase tickets to tour multiple monuments and make a day out of it without having to choose just one.
Coming from the United States to Spain was a cultural dream. The history and architecture is unmatched with anything we have encountered in the US and it is a certainty that your camera will be tired by the end of your visit.
Free Things To Do In Granada
Everyone loves a bargain, right? Check out the following FREE things to do in Granada. This city is absolutely beautiful and offers many attractions that are easily accessible on foot. I personally could spend an entire day just taking photos of the intricate Moorish style doors, amazing architecture and colorful market stalls.
11. The Kissing Wall
Yes, this off the beaten path stop is exactly what it sounds like. It is a “street art” installation where you can leave your mark on a wall tucked away on a quiet side street where others have puckered up and left their’s.
The wall is painted over every once in a while to make way for new smooches so you never know what you will find. It had JUST been repainted when I managed to find it so it only had a few kisses.
Close by there is a lovely little bench with trees and a secluded sitting area to admire this adorable pop culture stop.
12. Window Shopping In The Alcaiceria Market
This market district is located on the original site of the Arab silk markets and is loaded with eye candy.
From Moroccan style lanterns, to scarves and jewelry it is a sight to behold. Looking doesn’t cost a thing and it’s such a fun place to wander. I stumbled upon this accidentally after walking back to the city from Mirador De San Nicolás.
It has the feel of a real Moroccan market without being quite so overwhelming. Believe me, after touring the real thing in Tangier, this little taste of the busy stalls lining the streets is a much more manageable bite.
13. Mirador De San Nicolás
This is a very popular, but very FREE viewpoint in Granada. The walk through the winding streets to get there is lovely all on its own but when reaching the viewpoint you are greeted by street performers and crowds of happy people enjoying the music and the view which makes it even better.
The crowd etiquette was surprisingly seamless, everyone was very respectful and would step up to the edge to take their picture and then back away to let others get theirs. It is a lively place with a stunning view.
There are several restaurants and shops surrounding the area where you can grab a cool drink or a snack for the remainder of your time walking the streets of Granada.
14. Botanical Garden Of The University of Granada
This 100% free to visit garden is located in the heart of Granada.
You can enjoy the gardens and learn about the history of the site as well. The gardens were established in 1840 and played a crucial role in the advancement of botanical knowledge.
This would be another great place to bring a little picnic lunch and enjoy the gurgle of a fountain, the sound of birds and the smells of the garden’s flowers.
15. Take A Hike – Cahorros De Monachil
Just outside the city center there is a beautiful 4.7 mile loop trail with stunning views. The hike includes a suspension bridge as well as waterfalls and wildflowers.
Hiking is always a favorite activity when visiting a new place for a plant nerd such as myself. It is amazing to spot a new botanical, or even catch a glimpse of some wildlife. Keep your camera ready on this hike, you won’t want to miss a thing.
If you are into hiking like we are, check out our in depth review of Monfrague Castle hike which is also in Spain in the Extremadura province approximately five and a half hours north west of Granada.
Getting Around Granada
If planning to explore many different cities while visiting Spain, I would recommend renting a car. Driving in Spain is similar to the United States in that you drive on the right side of the road. Typically the vehicles are diesel and manual transmission so keep that in mind when booking a rental. It would also be a good idea to brush up on some Spanish phrases related to fueling up a vehicle and parking. Parking is mostly street or parking structures in the city.
Trains run between most major cities in Spain and are a viable option if your itinerary is flexible as far as arrival and departure times.
Granada is extremely walkable, and biking is an option as well. Within a 20 minute bike ride from the city center you will be amid olive groves overlooking the city where you can explore more rugged trails either hiking or biking.
FAQs
What else do you need to know about Granada? Let’s explore a couple of common questions.
Is 2 days enough for Granada?
Yes, two days is absolutely enough to explore Granada and get a feel for the city.
Day one: Explore the Alhambra and take in a Flamenco show in the evening. Grab dinner and stroll through the plaza‘s where you can grab a gelato for dessert.
Day two: Take a walking tour of the city or rent a bike and explore even further to the city’s more rural reaches. Head back into the city to grab some tapas and enjoy shopping along the market streets where you can pick the perfect souvenir to bring home.
Is Granada worth visiting?
Granada is absolutely worth visiting. With a rich cultural history, amazing architecture around every turn, delicious food and spectacular shopping there are so many options of things to do in Granada. This city should 100% be on your must visit list for Spain.
If you are interested in an in depth look at a smaller city to explore in Spain you can read more about Toledo here which has an incredible amount of history and a multi-monument pass available to tour several places on one ticket.
Is Seville or Granada better?
Personally, Granada beats Seville because of the access to beautiful walking and biking in conjunction with the cities shopping, dining and activities. Seville is more city based and I feel is lacking a little bit in the outdoor activity category. That being said if outdoor activities aren’t your favorite, Seville is an amazing place and you should check it out.
The Wrap Up
Our visit to Spain included many cities but our time in Granada was one of our favorite stops along the way.
We experienced our first taste of flamenco, toured the most famous attraction in Spain, the Alhambra, and ate tapas just like the locals do. I was able to find a tea light lantern to bring home to remember the market streets and Moorish influence.
We also enjoyed biking in the more rural reaches of the city and walking around downtown taking in all the sights. There are just so many things to do in Granada, I am sure you will love it just as much as we did. I hope that you have found a few things here that you would like to try out when you visit this amazing city for yourself and happy travels to you.