Overview:
Granada, a high altitude city of romance and folklore, boasts one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, the Alhambra palace-fortress. Built by the Nasrid rulers in the 14th century the Alhambra is the most important and spectacular piece of Moorish architecture in Spain. The huge complex, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, includes the summer palace with its fountains and gardens; the Palacios Nazaries with its intricate ornamentation; and a hilltop fortress. The city also boasts a Cathedral containing a Royal Chapel in which Isabel and Ferdinand of Spain lie buried, and a Moorish medina area, known as the Albaicin, with its labyrinth of narrow streets and whitewashed houses. North of Granada is Sacromonte hill, famed for its cave dwellings which were once the home of a large gypsy community
Getting Around:
Granada is extremely congested and also compact. Once you're in the district of your choice, you can walk along to most points of interest. Don't even attempt to drive here.
By Bus. Buses in Granada tend to be painted red, carry lots of advertising on their sides, and are small enough, and lean enough, to navigate some of the narrow streets leading from the town's commercial center to the Alhambra.
By Taxi. Taxis can be hailed in the streets; a green dome light indicates the vehicle is free. Taxis often line up outside first-class hotels, in the vicinity of the Alhambra, and at the landmark Plaza Nueva.
By Car. It's impossible to get around Granada by driving. A rented car is best left for exploring the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range. Rental prices vary greatly, depending on the time of the year and the agency, but count on shelling out around 300€ ($360) per week, including unlimited mileage and insurance. For most rentals, you must be 21 or older and have had a valid national drivers license for at least a year.
On Foot. This is about the only way to get around most neighborhoods, especially the hilly Albaicín and the Alhambra. For Greater Granada, a bus or taxi will have to do.
|
