Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra)
The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights. But it's also the country's most visited…
While Ronda may not be a big town, it’s certainly a town that’s big on flavours. From fine dining to neighbourhood tapas bars, some of the finest eating and drinking in Andalucia can be found in amongst our pick of the best restaurants in Ronda.
Bardal
Bardal was awarded its first Michelin star in November 2017. And it merely rubber-stamped what everyone in foodie circles already knew: that Ronda had become one of the best places to eat in southern Spain. Headed up by Benito Gomez, the Catalan chef behind long-time LVC favourite, Tragata, the award hardly came as a surprise, either: since it opened its doors back in July 2016 it’s been wowing the critics.
There are two tasting menus to choose from: a shorter and a longer one. Dishes featuring hearty components like veal head, venison and black pudding, and delicate takes on local stews and soups like gazpachuelo, combine creative flair and technical ability while still being married to Rondeña roots. Combined with pairings from a wine cellar of nearly 200 bottles, it’s a spectacular dining experience from start to finish.
Address: Calle José Aparicio 1, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 951 48 98 28; Restaurantebardal.com.
Restaurante Azahar
One of the best fine dining options in town, Azahar is the Andalucian outpost of Eboca Restaurants, an extensive network of top-class eateries that stretches from Barcelona to Ibiza via the Dominican Republic. The restaurant of the Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria, as you’d expect from such a serious set-up – and the fairly elevated price tag – the emphasis is on high-end ingredients beautifully put together into dishes that are as elegant as they are delicious.
Mouth-watering meat dishes include bull’s tail, kid slowly oven-cooked to crispy perfection and served with a cherry jus and vegetable tempura, and a suckling pig that can even (just about) vie with the jaw-dropping views as the most inviting part of the restaurant.
Address: Calle Jerez 25, Ronda 29400; Tel. 952 87 12 40; Restauranteazahar.com.
Restaurante Bodega San Francisco
No matter what your gastronomic ambitions are, you can’t spend more than a few days in Andalucia and not set foot in a typical spit and sawdust joint. While there are undoubtedly rougher round the edges places to eat where you’d still expect an excellent bite to eat, Bodega San Francisco more than fulfils this brief.
All of the basic ingredients are in place, from the beams and polished terracotta floors to the legs of ham hanging above the lovely gleaming wooden bar. Fancy the food is not, but whether it’s green peppers ‘al padron’ (fried, salted and blistered to within an inch of their greasy lives) to fried fish, spicy prawns, or snails when they’re in season, it’s a quintessentially Andalucian experience.
In the evenings, the terrace area – out on a square dotted with noisy, bird-filled plane trees (pictured) – is one of the most inviting spots in town for a drink and a light bite.
Address: Plaza Ruedo Alameda 32, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 81 62; Bodegasanfrancisco.com.
Abades Ronda Restaurante
Another restaurant that falls firmly into the category marked ‘special’ is Abades Ronda. Standout dishes range from the sublime – think foie with local goat’s cheese and caramelised apple and delightfully delicate turbot on a bed of baby vegetables – to the frankly ridiculously delicious, a sirloin of Iberico pork that, in our opinion, would be worth trying to scale the gorge for.
And speaking of the gorge… it’s right there, like an extra dining companion, opening out on to views that stretch away across the sun-dappled fields and olive groves to the misty Serrania de Ronda in the distance. Mesmerising.
Address: Paseo Blas Infante, 1, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 13 67; Abadesronda.com.
Tragata
Tragata’s been one of Ronda’s top restaurants since it opened what seems like yonks ago. It’s hardly surprising given that owner/chef Benito Gomez (the man behind recently Michelin-starred restaurant, Bardal – see above) cut his teeth in Ferran Adria’s La Alqueria at Hacienda Benazuza, as well as the kitchens of Jean Luc Figueras and Dani Garcia.
And the food? Asia meets Andalucia in a nutshell, with squid sandwiches, Russian salad and eggs ‘a la flamenca’, all making an appearance alongside the likes of prawn tempura, beef tataki and noodles and Thai-style seabass. Not only is it high quality fare, but it also makes for a nice change from the more traditional dishes you tend to find on your average southern Spanish menu.
Address: Calle Nueva 4, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 72 09; Tragata.com.
Entre Vinos
First the downsides: Entre Vinos is on a rather humdrum residential street out to the far north of the old town. The positives more than outweigh its slightly uninspiring location, however: it’s an inviting little neighbourhood wine bar with a lively atmosphere and a cracking selection of local Ronda wines.
Elsewhere in the positives column, food-wise all the classics are here from jamon, morcilla, presa and garlicky mushrooms to some fine cheeses and pates. Our top tip, though, has to be the squid cooked in its own ink and served with noodles.
Address: Calle Pozo 2, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 658 58 29 76; Facebook page.
Restaurante Almocabar
Tucked away at the southernmost end of Ronda’s historic centre, this charming little neighbourhood tapas bar and restaurant is very much one for all seasons. On chilly winter nights, great hearty plates of oven-cooked lamb and partridge stew are served up in the cosy interior.
In the summer, by contrast, the terrace is a great spot for sitting out in the square over a cool gazpacho or one of their fine salads and admiring the swooping swallows against a backdrop of the Moorish Puerta de Almocabar gate.
Address: Plaza Ruedo Alameda, 5, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 59 77;
Taberna Tropicana
There’s much more to Tropicana than meets the eye. A modern looking tapas joint on the corner of a typically Spanish block of flats way off the tourist trail to the north of the town, as seriously good dish after dish comes out of the kitchen you soon realise that you’ve stumbled into one of the best tapas bars in Ronda.
What’s good? On a fairly extensive and varied menu, it’s the meat that really stands out. The crisped oxtail tapas is a great way to kick things off, while the house speciality gourmet burgers are vast towers of juicy meat. It’s the barbecued entrecote and T-bone steaks that claim the prize, though – they’re things of rare beauty, crisscrossed with marbling, lightly charred on the outside and succulent and tender within.
Oh, and they serve a very mean gin and tonic, too.
Address: Avenida Malaga & Calle Acinipo, s/n, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 89 85; Tabernatropicana.com.
Appetite whetted by our pick of the best Ronda restaurants? For more things to do in this stunning town, check out our guide to Ronda in a day.
Ben Cooper
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[post_content] => The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights.
But it's also the country's most visited tourist attraction – and as such probably needs little in the way of introduction (and promotion).
So let’s concentrate instead on some of the lesser-known wonders that this fabulous city has to offer. Here then is our pick of the top things to see and do in Granada – that aren't the Alhambra...
1. The Albayzin
For centuries, Moorish and Christian traditions coexisted harmoniously in Granada, and the Albayzin neighbourhood is a beautiful and atmospheric relic of this enlightened past.
The Alhambra and the Albayzin look across at one another, with each view being just as magnificent as the other. Meander through the narrow cobbled streets, pause in squares to admire the view or stop for a tapas and a cool drink.
Why visit:
Revel in the Moorish and Andalucian style that can be discovered around every narrow corner or small square. Take in the view and drink champagne overlooking the Alhambra Palace – El Huerto de Juan Ranas has a great terrace. (Calle Atarazana Vieja, 6.)
Tapas stops:
Taberna El Beso. Moroccan food in the surroundings of a beautiful little palace. The owner also has a small collection of antiques and objets from Morocco for sale. (Cuesta de San Gregorio, s/n, 18010 Granada.)
Higher in the Albayzin is Casa de los Mascarones. It's a little rough and ready, but offers great tapas with a very local Albayzin feel. (Calle Pagés, 20, 18010 Granada.)
Bar Kiki and Cafe Gabriel are two other favourites – see our guide to restaurants in Granada if you're looking for further recommendations.
2. Palacio Dar al-Horra
Deep in the Albayzin, this mini palace often gets overlooked. Once the home of Aixa, mother of Boabdil, the last Moorish king of Granada, it has magnificent views of the Albayzin and only takes a short time to visit.
The best way to visit Palacio Dar al-Horra is to buy a ticket to the Andalucian Monuments: Tickets.alhambra-patronato.es. This includes Palacio Dar al-Horra, Corral del Carbón, Bañuelo and Casa Morisca (Calle Horno de Oro). You can also buy tickets at the entrance of Palacio Dar al-Horra – it closes between 14.30-17-00hrs. (Callejón de las Monjas Albayzin, s/n, 18008 Granada.)
3. Cathedral & Capilla Real
If you've got more than a passing interest in Spanish history a visit to the Capilla Real, where the Catholic Kings Isabel and Ferdinand are buried, is a must.
The first Renaissance church in Spain, the mighty Granada Cathedral also forms part of the sample complex and can be visited alongside the Royal Chapel. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
To the rear of the Cathedral is the fresh food market, San Agustín. Here La Picatería is a great bet for a spot of tapas. (Plaza de San Agustín, S/N, 18001 Granada.)
4. Plaza Bib Rambla
Granada doesn’t have a plaza mayor (a main square) per se, but Plaza Bib Rambla more than ably fills the role.
As the first square of Granada, Plaza Bib Rambla has survived a long and varied history… from markets, jousting, bull fighting, religious processions and even executions, this square has seen it all. Now there are flower stalls, restaurants and street entertainers. Much more civilised.
Tapas Stop:
La Telefonica, just off the square. (Calle Arco de las Orejas, 1, 18001 Granada.)
5. Go Shopping
A memento or two from your travels is always a must. But what should you buy in Granada?
- Spices & tea: Not to be missed are the Moroccan-style tea shops and souvenir shops along Caldereria Nueva, close to Calle Elvira. In the lower part of the Albayzin, it’s a great place to buy some tea, spices or North African cakes.
- Ceramics: Granada (and Andalucia) has a long history of decorative ceramics, dating all the way back to the 15th century. You’ll notice decorative tiles throughout the city. The blue and green pomegranate design ('granada' means 'pomegranate' in Spanish) on vases and plates are a traditional decoration and make for a lovely gift. Ceramics are still produced in the city today at Fajalauza. (Calle Fajalauza 2, Albayzin Alto.)
- Leather: 5V Valverde is a speciality shop from yesteryear dealing in handmade leather shoes, boots and bags. Exquisite quality, one of the best cordwainers in southern Spain. (Calle Reyes Católicos, 32, 18009 Granada.)
- Jewellery: A great option for giftables is Platonica (Platonicajoyeria.com). Locally designed and made jewellery, some influenced by Nasrid culture. (Carrera del Darro, 8, 18010 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
Taberna 22 is a sunny little spot with a great atmosphere at the end of Caldereria Nueva. The tapas is, well... basic. But it's on one of the main thoroughfares from the centre of Granada to the Albayzin. (Plaza San Gregorio, 29, 18010 Granada.) After choosing your winter boots at 5V Valverde, stop at Casa de Vinos La Brujidera. (Calle Monjas del Carmen, 2, 18009 Granada.) Near Platonica, for tapas try La Tabernilla del Darro. (Puente de Espinosa, 15, 18010 Granada.) For a drink (after 20.00hrs) go to Huerto del Loro. (Cuesta de la Churra, 4, 18009 Granada.)6. water & granada – a tour
Water is a constant in the architecture of Granada, from shallow channels that cool houses to elaborate, babbling fountains. A tour is the best way to travel deeper and understand the inventive and intellectual complexity of Moorish water traditions in southern Spain.
On this tour you’ll take in sights such as the Aljibe del Rey (a well) and the Bañuelo (Arabic bath house). Contact our concierge for bespoke tours.
7. Rodriguez Acosta Foundation
While you’re up on the Alhambra hill, if you love architecture this carmen (a house with garden in Granada) is definitely worth a visit.
Owned by artist Rodriquez Acosta and built between 1916 and 1930, the building itself is an eclectic mix of styles, but the gardens and tunnels are absolutely fascinating.
It's worth bearing in mind that some tickets for the Alhambra include entrance to this lesser-known museum. During summer 2022 the museum has been closed for works; a new open date is to be confirmed. (Callejón Niño del Royo, 8, 18009 Granada.)
8. Corral del Carbón
Back in the city centre, head to the Corral del Carbon. This building dates back to the 14th century, when it was used as an inn for merchants of the silk trade, but over the years it's had many uses. There would have been hundreds of these buildings in Spain but, sadly, very few still stand today. For this reason it has great historic significance and is an excellent example of a Moorish construction in superb condition. Entrance is free and it’s open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 20:00. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)Tapas Stop:
Asador Corrala del Carbon - a characterful bar and restaurant; stop for tapas, not a meal. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 8, 18009 Granada.)9. Botanical Gardens
The Jardin Botanico de la Universidad de Granada is a small botanical garden in the centre of the city under five minutes' walk from the Cathedral. As botanical gardens go it’s perfectly pleasant enough, but it’s in a lovely corner of town and you can stroll through the university building, too. The area has a student feel, with a great selection of vintage clothes shops and fun tapas stops. (Calle Escuelas, n, 18001 Granada.)Tapas (or cocktail) stop:
Humo El Origen (Calle Escuelas, 2, 18001 Granada) or Lemon Rock, for a buzzy live music vibe (Calle Montalbán, 6, 18002 Granada).10. The Science Park
A great stop for kids is Granada's Parque de las Ciencias. It easily keeps little minds busy for a day with indoor/outdoor attractions, interactive play for all ages, and a biodome with animals. Closed Mondays. (Avenida de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada.)11. Flamenco
Cut Granada and it bleeds flamenco. And at the heart of that flamenco heritage is Sacromonte, a neighbourhood of cave houses just on the outskirts of the Albayzin. Sacromonte is famed for the 'Zambra' style of flamenco. This raw form of dance is often performed barefoot and is thought to have its origins in Morisco dance.Where to see flamenco in Granada?
Although Granada has this deep flamenco heritage, catching some of the real deal first hand can be a little harder. Our three picks to see flamenco are: Jardinesdezoraya.com, Laplateria.org.es and Casadelarteflamenco.com.12. MAKE FOR A Mirador
With its skyline spectacularly crowned by the Alhambra Palace, Granada was always going to be a city that's about the views.
Mirador San Nicolas and Placeta Cristo Azucenas are two large squares in the Albayzin neighbourhood with uninterrupted views of the Alhambra. Hang around as the moon rises from behind the Alhambra and watch as it changes colour from ochra to terracotta.
13. San Juan de Dios Basilica
This church is one for Baroque fans. With its intricate frescoes, it’s one of the finest examples of the architectural style to be found anywhere in Andalucia. (Calle San Juan de Dios, 19, 17, 18001 Granada.)
14. Sacromonte Abbey
Outside of Granada: Granada Province
15. La Cartuja
Another outstanding example of Spanish Baroque architecture, the Cartuja monastery is just a short drive outside Granada city. (Paseo de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada.)16. Rio Verde
About an hour's drive to the south of the city, Rio Verde is an exceptional canyoning spot. A guide is necessary as wetsuits, ropes and protective equipment are needed.
Recommended guide: Localexperiences.es.
17. Las Alpujarras
Hidden away along incredible winding roads, this collection of 25 white mountain villages was once pretty much cut off from the outside world. Trevelez, the highest municipality in Spain, is 1476m above sea level and located at the foot of Mulhacen, the highest mountain in mainland Spain. Other Albujarras villages of note are Soportújar, Lanajaron and Pampaneira.18. Skiing
At the height of a sultry Granada summer it can be hard to believe that the winter might bring snow. But you can ski in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains from December to April. See our full guide here.
19. Lecrin Valley
While it may be less well-known than the nearby Alpujarras, in our opinion this collection of 17 villages is more beautiful. They may not have any obvious gimmicks or the fame and visitors that come with it, but they also go about their rural business relatively untouched by tourism.20. Montefrio
National Geographic named this pretty town as having one of the best views in the world – and who are we to argue? It's got an atmospherically ruined Moorish castle and an impressive church, while just outside the town is Las Peñas de los Gitanos, which is home to some excellent examples of Megalithic constructions.21. Alhama de Granada
This strikingly handsome old town is perched precariously on the edge of a gorge. It’s famed for its natural spa baths just outside the town (rather more medical than luxury) and has a great walking route through the gorge if you like to stretch your legs.22. Vereda de la Estrella
And while we’re talking about walking... there are an awful lot of great hiking routes in and around Granada. One of particular note, La Vereda de la Estrella, is from the village of Güejar Sierra: a 10km linear hike, with a gentle slope, which climbs over the Genil River to the Sierra Nevada. For more information about where to eat in Granada, see our guide here. For villas in Granada province, see our collection. [post_title] => Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => things-see-do-granada [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=242167 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 242072 [post_author] => 5 [post_date] => 2022-07-02 10:52:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-07-02 10:52:22 [post_content] => In Granada a small plate of food is offered with every drink. After a hard day's sightseeing, this tapa is a very welcome tit-bit served with a refreshing wine, beer or tinto de verano. Not all tapas are equal, though: some are generous, others are not. While winding your way from bar to bar tapas in the evening is a great way to explore the city, don’t overlook the restaurants in Granada as there are also some fantastic options for a long leisurely lunch. Here’s LVC’s guide to the best tapas bars and restaurants in Granada:El Realejo
The old Jewish quarter of Granada has really become tapas central. Make your way to the end of Calle Varela and along Calle Virgen del Rosario and you'll find restaurant after restaurant with tables spilling out onto the streets. Two great options for tapas or sharing plates are:1. Casa de Vinos La Brujidera
If we had to choose only one tapas bar in Granada, Casa de Vinos La Brujidera would be it. If you love wine, and yearn for a place where the music, lighting and wine by the glass is absolutely pitch-perfect, then Casa de Vinos is for you.
There aren't too many places that can match it for real integrity and soul anywhere in Spain.
Calle Monjas del Carmen, 2, 18009 Granada
2. Taberna La Tana
Our second favourite wine bar in Granada is Taberna La Tana. This has suffered a little from its success over the years and this once tiny bar with only standing (bar leaning) room now has expanded next door and outside. Tapas tends to be high quality charcuterie. Placeta del Agua, 3, 18009 GranadaAlbayzin
The Albayzin neighbourhood of Granada has looked out onto the Alhambra Palace since Moorish times. The labyrinthine narrow streets, carved doors, intricate metal work and carmenes (houses with gardens) are still present today.
Plaza Larga is the heart of this neighbourhood, but don’t miss Mirador San Nicolas and Placeta de San Miguel Bajo (pictured).
3. Bar Kiki, Vinos y Otras Cosas…
While its location - sitting next to one of the most touristic spots in Granada - doesn’t initially inspire much confidence, Bar Kiki sits alongside our other selections as a stalwart Albayzin institution.
The tapas is great, and if you want a full meal then the menu is inventive and inspiring. On our last visit tuna heart was on the menu!
Plaza Cementerio de San Nicolas, 9, 18010 Granada
4. Café Gabriel
Just on the edge of the heart of the Albayzin, this restaurant is worth the taxi ride (or stroll up the hill). Meat is its speciality with seating indoors and out on a small square. Indoors there are tables with coolers in the middle for handy chilled beers or wine for dining. On the terrace you can order drinks and tapas. Calle Pagés, 29, 18010 Granada5. Amazonia Fine Food
OK, so we’re very suspicious about restaurants that cross cuisines. But every time we visit Amazonia, plate after plate is served with love and care. So if you fancy something Greek to Hawaiian, from poke, to tacos and pad thai to kofta, then this is it. There are also lots of plant based options, too. Carrera del Darro, 37, 18010 GranadaCentre
6. Wild Food
Plant-based dishes and desserts are the main reason you visit this central eatery, but the chic decor, friendly service and buzzy vibe don’t hurt either. A great spot for a coffee and cake or a light bite. Plaza Isabel la Católica, 5, 18009 Granada7. Casa Mol
Casa Mol can be found on an unassuming side street towards El Corte Ingles and the river. This small bar has great complimentary tapas, with a short selection of four or five to choose from all made to order. It gets very busy, so get there at 0800 sharp or make a reservation.
Calle Duende, 11, 18005 Granada
8. Pescaderia 4
If you’re fed up of crowded tapas bars and want a meal, then you can’t go far wrong with Pescaderia 4. On the corner of a famous street for fish restaurants in Granada, this bistro-esque restaurant is a great option for a romantic meal. Order off the specials board and you won’t be disappointed. The octopus with pistachio was a big hit. Plaza Pescadería, 4, 18001 Granada9. Lemon Rock
A concept bar, music venue, restaurant and hostel, Lemon Rock is buzzing no matter what time of day (or night) you sidle in.
The food is very much gastrobar, but the atmosphere is stellar with live music on every weekend. If you’re in a large party there are several private rooms to hire of varying sizes.
Calle Montalbán, 6, 18002 Granada
10. Humo El Origen
Brunches and cocktails are the order of the day at Humo. This African-inspired cafe/bar sits alongside the botanical gardens of the University's Law Faculty. This area of Granada has a student feel with vintage shops, jazz bars and very reasonable lunch spots.
We’ve diligently worked our way through their signature cocktail list - Recuerdos de Aden being a ‘moment’ in itself!
Calle Escuelas, 2, 18001 Granada
11. La Telefonica
Tucked away on a side street off Plaza Bib-Rambla, Telefonica is a relaxed restaurant that's great for sharing plates or a tapas pit-stop after some retail therapy. Calle Arco de las Orejas, 1, 18001 GranadaFine Dining
12. Faralá
Offering international quality food, Faralá wipes the floor with many better known restaurants in Andalucia. High praise indeed, but genuinely fine dining of this calibre is rare in southern Spain… perhaps anywhere.
You enter through a flamenco tablao on the ground floor. It's a slightly uninspiring first impression, but stick with it and you're welcomed by a light, comfortable formal dining room on the first floor. There are three tasting menus to choose from and an excellent sommelier on hand for pairings.
Cuesta de Gomerez 11 (very close to Plaza Nueva), 18009 Granada Spain
13. Restaurante Arriaga
Arriaga is on the top floor of the Museo Memoria de Andalucia, next to the science park (a great outing for the children) on the outskirts of Granada centre. Is it worth the journey? Absolutely. The initial wow factor is provided by the modernist dining room's floor to ceiling windows, designed to maximise the views from 55 metres up. The food, though, is even better. Head chef Álvaro Arriaga lays out two tasting menus (one with nine courses the other with six) that are conversation points in themselves. Reservations are essential. Centro Cultural Avenida Ciencia No. 2, 18006 Granada Spain Tempted by a visit to Granada? Check out our villas in the area. [post_title] => The LVC Insider's Guide to: Granada Restaurants [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => best-restaurants-granada [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-08-04 15:22:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-08-04 15:22:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=242072 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) 1You might also like
The LVC Insider’s Guide to: Granada Restaurants
In Granada a small plate of food is offered with every drink. After a hard day's sightseeing, this tapa is a very welcome tit-bit served with a refreshing wine, beer or tinto de verano. Not all…