A memorable night in a palace overlooking theAlhambra, a masterpiece of Arab-Andalusian architecture?
A charming boutique hotel along the Darro River?
An unforgettable stay in a luxury establishment right in the heart of the city?
You’ll see that the pretty city of Granada has a lot to offer, even when it comes to accommodation.
The choice is difficult, but don’t worry, we’ve answered all your questions in this article. You will find:
- our tips on the best areas to stay in Granada,
- our list of the 10 best hotels in , plus a few extras.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
The best hotels in Granada: our 3 favorites
Before discovering our detailed opinions on each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our 3 favorite addresses.
Best downtown hotel: Hotel Luna Granada Centro
Our 1st favorite of the trip is without doubt the Boutique Hôtel Luna Granada Centro, a modern oasis in the heart of Granada. With its warm, relaxed atmosphere and contemporary, pastel-colored decor, you’re sure to love this soothing downtown spot, just as we did. In the communal lounge, we enjoyed unlimited hot drinks. Then head up to the rooftop to cool off in the small outdoor pool. And don’t forget the unique view over the city’s rooftops!
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Corrala del Realejo
Would you like to spend a night in a 5-star hotel with rustic, rococo decor in one of Granada’s most sought-after districts? The Hotel Corrala del Realejo left us with fond memories. Modern apartments, fully-equipped kitchens, accommodation with city views, an eye for detail, gourmet breakfasts… This establishment has a lot going for it. Enjoying the space of an apartment while benefiting from hotel service is also a real advantage on vacation. The icing on the cake: we were able to privatize the small outdoor Jacuzzi-type swimming pool on request.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel with a view: Alhambra Palace
How could we fail to fall under the spell of this emblematic and enchanting Granada landmark? The typical Hispano-Moorish decor of this 5-star palace has transported us! At the Hôtel Alhambra Palace, luxury rhymes with elegance and authenticity. Perched on the city’s superb heights, you’ll catch a glimpse of the famous 13th-century Nasrid Palace of the Alhambra, while enjoying top-notch service in a Belle Époque hotel steeped in history.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Granada: best districts
Why stay in Granada?
Granada is a charming town in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The dynamic city is alive with events all year round. You probably know it for its unique Alhambra. But there are many other treasures, including sumptuous religious buildings and troglodyte houses, which we loved visiting! All the more reason to stay and spend at least 1 unforgettable night here, to (re)immerse yourself in the rich history of this Andalucia city. It’s also one of the most popular places to stay in Andalucia!
Granada’s best places to stay: map
Here’s our map to help you get your bearings, with the main areas to stay in Granada:
Staying downtown
We really enjoyed strolling through Granada’s historic center. In addition to numerous sites of interest (Capilla Real, Palacio de la Madraza, Cathedral of the Incarnation), its alleyways are home to a multitude of boutiques, especially independent ones. As you stroll along, you’ll come across a number of pleasant squares, first and foremost the Plaza Bib-Rambla. The square is surrounded by restaurants and bars with shady terraces. Next to the cathedral, you can pass through the Alcaicería, an ancient souk where silk fabrics were sold in the Middle Ages. On the other hand, we were charmed by the architecture of the streets and buildings. We recommend you visit at night, when the stores are closed. All the more reason to choose the downtown area between the historic district and Realejo as the place to put down your suitcases!
Benefits:
- Very lively area (many restaurants, stores and accommodations)
- Close to most points of interest (art venues, museums, cultural sites…)
- Several stops on the Granada Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
- Numerous paid underground parking lots
Disadvantages:
- Noise pollution due to busy area
- Parking can be tricky in the narrow streets of the old town
- Higher accommodation costs
Our favorite hotels:
Staying at the Alhambra
You won’t want to miss the Alhambra. Perched on a hill, this palatial complex stands out against the backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains. Did you know it’s possible to sleep there? This promises a historic stay in the heart of 2200m of ramparts and several palaces. The Nazrid Palaces, dating from the 13th century, are the most famous. Sleeping in the heart of this building, a major monument to 13th-century Moorish architecture, is a truly unique experience! Not far away, you can enter the Alcazaba, an 11th-century fortress. You’ll also see the 16th-century palace of Charles V. It houses the Museum of Fine Arts and the Alhambra Museum. While all these buildings are well worth a visit, our favorite is the Generalife. Located just before the exit, this summer palace features magnificent gardens!
Benefits:
- At the heart of Spain’s most visited monument, the Alhambra – book your ticket
- On the hillside of La Sabica
- Incredible views of the city and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains
- Granada’s oldest district, home to the city’s main point of interest
- Several stops on the Granada Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Disadvantages:
- Distance from downtown
- Few amenities (restaurants, stores…)
- Quiet area, especially in the evening
- Less convenient to get around
Our favorite hotels:
Staying near the Rio Darro (Albaicin district)
Did you know that the Albaicin district is one of Granada’s most emblematic and typical districts? Central enough to explore the city, we loved the whitewashed houses, narrow streets and Moorish architecture. A change of scenery is guaranteed, to the delight of your eyes! We immersed ourselves in this part of town, recalling the atmosphere of an ancient medina. The proximity of the Darro River is also an advantage for enjoying beautiful panoramic views!
Benefits:
- Close to Granada’s main points of interest
- Beautiful river views
- Emblematic Moorish architecture with typical homes
- Several vestiges of the Moorish period (Arab baths, Dar Al-Horra Palace)
Disadvantages:
- Steep streets, numerous staircases (difficult PRM access)
- Complex car traffic and parking
- Busy tourist area with risk of noise pollution
- Old buildings and lack of modern amenities
Our favorite hotels:
Other useful tips to keep in mind
- Andalucia is a popular destination. Although the peak season is spring and summer, the temperate Mediterranean climate is ideal for year-round tourism. A destination with year-round sunshine and very few rainy days means crowds, and therefore anticipation! Don’t forget to book your accommodation as early as possible, as Granada is one of the most sought-after cities in the world.
- This is particularly true during Holy Week (the week of religious processions through the city leading up to Easter) and the International Festival of Young Directors in April (see here). During these world-famous festivities, prices soar and the crowds are huge.
- Please note that the criteria for awarding stars to hotels vary from country to country. Most tourist accommodation is in traditional buildings. Pools are therefore generally on the roof and are more for cooling off than for swimming.
- Within the city, you can use public transport to get around if you don’t want to drive into town. In fact, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus runs a circuit that serves many of Granada’s tourist districts. Remember to book your ticket in advance. You can also rent a car if you want to explore the city and its surroundings on your own.
RENT A CAR IN Andalucia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a compact car, as some villages have very narrow streets!
- Think ofcomprehensive insurance for the same reason
- Book early for choice.
1. Boutique Hotel Luna Granada Centro (4 stars)
Why stay there?
One of the highlights of our stay was without doubt the Boutique Hotel Luna Granada Centro, a modern oasis in the heart of Granada.
We were seduced by the hotel’s warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The contemporary decor in pastel colors and round shapes added roundness to the atmosphere and a touch of calm.
In our room, we didn’t miss the decorative details and the attention paid to the occupants, such as the pink tiles or the geometric sconces.
Small bags of caramelized almonds were delicately arranged on the desk with a charming greeting.
What a little haven of peace!
Breakfast was also a treat.
What better way to start the day than with a hearty buffet featuring delicacies such as salmon guacamole and the day’s pastries, not to mention the included à la carte dishes?
Then head up to the rooftop for a dip in the small outdoor pool.
It’s not deep enough or big enough to swim in, but it’s nice to have a dip and a nice view of the city rooftops!
The hotel’s central location made it easy for us to explore Granada, and the attentive staff were a great help with our discoveries.
We highly recommend this establishment if you’re looking for a modern and welcoming experience in this beautiful Andalucia city.
Pool
- Unheated rooftop pool
- Open all year round
- Not deep enough to swim, but nice view of the city
- Parasol, deckchairs, towels provided
- On this floor: shower, toilet and safe with some drinks
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown, 10min walk to Granada Cathedral
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: bar, small swimming pool, PRM facilities and access, solarium, cot, babysitting.
- Parking: private, indoor pay car park with PRM access
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Hotel Corrala del Realejo (5 stars)
Why stay there?
Another accommodation we particularly liked was the Hotel Corrala del Realejo.
This 5-star establishment has a rustic, rococo feel, which added a touch of charm to our stay!
Enjoying the space of an apartment while benefiting from hotel service is a real advantage!
Our accommodation was spacious, with a modern, fully-equipped kitchen including oven, microwave, hob, colander, pots and pans, crockery and coffee maker.
Every accommodation has a name, and ours was named “Fortuny” after the Granada-born painter Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo.
From the window, the view of the Sierra Nevada enchanted us.
In our opinion, this was one of the highlights of our accommodation.
Please note that the outdoor pool, although smaller and unheated (Jacuzzi-style), can be privatized.
A privileged moment of relaxation!
The staff were very attentive, and we appreciated the details that made all the difference, such as the bottle of sparkling white wine and the complimentary cookies.
However, the service would benefit from being more dynamic and upscale, given the hotel’s standing.
At breakfast, we enjoyed delicious homemade dishes: carrot cake, orange brioche, viennoiseries and local charcuterie delighted our taste buds early in the morning.
The restaurant on the first floor allows you to enjoy a good meal in a charmingly rustic setting.
Pool and spa
- Unheated outdoor pool
- Open in season
- Pool bar
- Deckchairs and towels provided
- Spa (jacuzzi)
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown near the Genil River and a 15-minute walk from the Carmen de los Martires Garden
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: airport shuttle, PRM facilities and access, small swimming pool, pets allowed (accessories available), bar, bike rental, spa, activities, cot.
- Parking: private indoor parking lot (reservation required), PRM accessible
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. Seda Club – Small Luxury Hotels (5 stars)
Why stay there?
If you’re looking for top-of-the-range service in an intimate, refined setting, we’ve found it for you at the Hotel Seda Club! Part of Granada’s Small Luxury Hotels collection, this 5-star establishment guarantees top-quality services right in the heart of the city, 2 steps from the cathedral. We appreciated the hotel’s contemporary, elegant decor with Andalucia touches. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal, enjoy the panoramic view from the rooftop of the Alhambra and the typical surrounding districts, or indulge in a moment of relaxation at the spa. It’s also an excellent base close to all the must-see places to visit. What more could you ask for a successful vacation?
Practical information
- Neighborhood: historical center
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: wellness center and spa, massage services, relaxation area, airport shuttle, elevator, meeting rooms, pets allowed (accessories available), cot
- Parking: private indoor parking lot (reservation required), charging station for electric vehicles, valet parking.
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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4. Hotel Alhambra Palace (5 stars)
Why stay there?
Would you like to stay in one of Granada’s most emblematic hotels? Inaugurated over a century ago in 1905, the Alhambra Palace is a place steeped in history. We loved its style, inspired by the Nasrid architecture of the Alhambra Palace, next door to the 5-star establishment. You’ll spend an unforgettable night surrounded by forest and just a 15-minute walk from the central Realejo district. With its refined decor and rich heritage combining Belle Époque ambience and Moorish style, you won’t regret choosing this enchanting place where the interior sparkles with 1000 lights. Take time to admire the moldings, chandeliers, domes, earthenware and massive sculpted doors. We were particularly taken with the zellige mosaics that adorn the walls and floors of the hotel’s common areas, as well as the bedrooms and bathrooms. The spaces have been renovated to combine modernity, practicality and refinement, all in a very upscale Moorish style. A true Andalusian symbol of Granada, you’ll also love the romantic setting offered by this exceptional place.
Practical information
- Area: 10min walk from Plaza de Fortuny and 30min walk from the Alhambra
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: cot, airport shuttle, bar, tour desk, meeting rooms
- Parking: private pay parking lot, charging station for electric vehicles, valet parking.
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
5. Hotel Palacio Gran Via (5 stars)
Why stay there?
A member of the Royal Hideaway Collection, the Hotel Palacio Gran Via is also a good option in our opinion if you’re staying in Granada. Did you know that this emblematic venue is housed in the former headquarters of the Rodriguez-Acosta Bank, built in the early 20th century? Push open the doors of this 5-star hotel and let yourself be transported by the magic of Granada. The carved wooden ceilings, multiple frescoes, art nouveau ornaments and architectural details of this iconic building seduced us. Facing Granada Cathedral and close to the famous Alhambra, you’ll be ideally placed to visit the city and its treasures. Take a walk on the roof to admire the view or relax in the wellness center to complete this beautiful experience combining luxury, design and history. The state-of-the-art fitness room is also open every day if you want to get some exercise and stay in shape while you’re away.
Practical information
- District: historic center, opposite Incarnation Cathedral
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: spa and wellness center, airport shuttle, PRM access and facilities, fitness room, baby cot
- Parking: private and payable on reservation, accessible to PRM
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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6. Barcelo Carmen Granada Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay there?
Recently renovated, the Barcelo Carmen Granada Hotel is also a good choice for accommodation in Granada.
Just a 15-minute drive from the historic Alhambra, this 4-star establishment appealed to us for the modernity of its bright rooms, which is also reflected in the common areas.
The clean, light-toned decor brings elegance and sobriety to the setting.
In your room, you’ll enjoy quality bedding for a good night’s sleep.
The rooftop welcomes you with its charming swimming pool and open-air bar.
The perfect place to contemplate the exceptional view of Granada, the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Soak up the sun on a sun lounger or shelter under an umbrella. Life is beautiful!
Pool
- Outdoor rooftop pool with view
- Open in season
- Shallow space
- Bar nearby
- Deckchairs, parasol and towels provided
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Realejo side, 15min walk from Parque Federico Garcia Lorca
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: airport shuttle, bar, fitness room, terrace, PRM access and facilities
- Parking: private indoor pay parking lot, recharging point for electric vehicles
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
7. Hotel Aurea Catedral (4 stars)
Why stay there?
Choosing the Hotel Aurea Catedral in Granada means staying right next to the cathedral. Close to this elegant 4-star hotel, you’ll also find Granada’s Capilla Real, the largest funerary chapel in Spain and home to the mausoleums of Catholic monarchs. So you’ve come to the right neighborhood, with many points of interest to visit. Modern and comfortable, the rooms are well-appointed in a refined style with a few colorful touches that give character to the spaces. Whether you’re looking for a buffet breakfast with local flavors, a fitness room or a sunny terrace, you’ll agree with us that this establishment has a lot to offer!
Practical information
- District: historic center, opposite the Cathedral of the Incarnation and the Royal Chapel
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: cot, fitness room, terrace, sauna, meeting rooms
- Parking: private indoor pay parking lot, accessible for PRM, recharging point for electric vehicles.
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
8. Hotel Shine Albayzín (3 stars)
Why stay there?
Opt for accommodation with a typically Andalucia ambience at the Hotel Shine Albaycin in the district of the same name. In the steep, authentic alleyways of this part of town, immerse yourself in Moorish architecture and pass through the large wooden gate of this charming hotel. You’ll discover its pretty traditional patio. In the rooms, decorated in beige tones and featuring raw materials such as oak, we liked the large windows overlooking the ramparts of the Generalife and the Alhambra. It’s also a 15-minute walk to the Basilica of San Juan de Dios. The staff are attentive, ready to guide and help you during your stay. Alongside the hotel, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that some rooms overlook the Darro River and a small stone bridge, a tributary of the Guadalquivir River. A very poetic environment surrounds this 3-star establishment where quality rhymes with low prices.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Realejo side, 15min walk from the basilica
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no (no breakfast, only mini-bar)
- Family rooms:
- Facilities: cot, PRM facilities and access, tour desk
- Parking: indoor public parking lot and nearby pay car park
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
9. Hotel Parador de Granada (4 stars)
Why stay there?
Experience a magical moment when you sleep in the heart of the Alhambra at Granada’s Hotel Parador. One of Granada’s most emblematic historic sites, this establishment, housed in a former monastery, left no one indifferent. How could we fail to fall under the spell of this building that has stood the test of time? Fountains and lush gardens surround this beautiful 4-star hotel, allowing you to soak up its unique historic atmosphere. Head for the rooms, where traditional Andalusian charm blends perfectly with modern amenities. In this dream establishment, dine in the restaurant with its typical regional cuisine. Set in the heart of the Alhambra, overlooking the gardens and the Generalife from the terrace, it’s one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants. Finally, relax in the traditional patio facing the fountain, sipping a cool drink after a long day’s sightseeing.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: inside the Alhambra and its gardens, near Generalife
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: bar, cot, place of worship, airport shuttle, PRM access and facilities, terrace, garden
- Parking: private pay car park (reservation required), PRM accessible
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
10. Aparthotel Suites Casas de las Columnas
Why stay there?
We enjoyed our night at the Hotel Suites Casas de las Columnas. It’s an affordable and well-located choice if you’re looking for the practicality of an aparthotel in a typical budget setting. With no on-site staff, we arrived at this charming hotel on our own; the team can be reached on Whatsapp and is fairly responsive. The traditional decor and rustic rooms gave us a typical experience in this very well-located aparthotel. The kitchen in our suite was equipped with a kettle, coffee maker, microwave, fridge, hotplates, as well as pots and crockery. From our room, we found the view over the city rooftops very pleasant. If you’re a light sleeper, we recommend you bring earplugs, as soundproofing is poor. Make yourself comfortable on the small terrace with garden, which gives the place a real character.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Albaicin 15min walk from the Royal Monastery of San Jeronimo
- Price range: 3 star equivalent
- Restaurant: no (no breakfast, only kettle tray in room)
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: terrace, small garden, elevator, tour desk
- Parking: no, paid public parking Garaje Gran Capitan 10min walk away
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
VISIT Granada
- Things to do in Granada
- Best hotels in Granada (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Best museums (coming soon)
- Excursions from Granada (coming soon)
- Visit the Nazaries Palace (coming soon)
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days – 3 days (coming soon)
Other options and cheap hotels in Granada
In this section, you’ll find some hotels we’d also like to mention.
Other affordable hotels in Granada
- Hotel Boutique Puertas de las Granadas – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel U-Sense Granada Centro – See prices, photos and availability
Other aparthotels in Granada
- BiBo Suites San Agustín – See prices, photos and availability
- Casa Miravalle Catedral – See prices, photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Andalusia
Inspiration
- Best things to do in Andalucia
- The most beautiful cities
- The most beautiful white villages
- Cathedrals
- Archaeological sites
- Seville, Cordoba or Granada? (coming soon)
Practice
- Where to stay in Andalucia (coming soon)
- Best luxury hotels in Andalusia (coming soon)
- Rent a car in Andalusia (coming soon)
- Itineraries: 3 days – 4 or 5 days – 1 week – 10 days – 2 weeks (coming soon)
Places not to be missed
- Things to do in Sevilla
- Things to do in Cordoba (coming soon)
- Things to do in Granada
- Things to do in Ronda
- Things to do in Malaga
- Things to do in Cadiz (coming soon)
SHE MADE THE TRIP Fanny
