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Free things to do in Granada

Granada is generous to visitors on a budget. The Charles V Palace, the Alhambra Museum and the Mosque baths are free to enter, the Corral del Carbón and the Carmen de los Mártires gardens cost nothing, the viewpoints and the Albaicín streets are open all day, and many bars give a free tapa with every drink.

3 min read
15Things that cost nothing
30 minTo the best sunset viewpoint
Free tapaWith a drink in many bars
€0Charles V Palace, Museum, Mosque baths
Three free places

At the Alhambra

The Palace of Charles V
The Palace of Charles V
  • Charles V Palace: a Renaissance palace with a circular courtyard.
  • The Alhambra Museum: finds from the Alhambra and its history.
  • The Mosque baths: a small Moorish bath house.
Outdoors, all day

Views and walks

A viewpoint terrace with the Alhambra in the distance
A viewpoint terrace with the Alhambra in the distance

Mirador de San Nicolás

On foot
30 min
What it is
The classic view of the Alhambra at sunset. Arrive early.

Mirador de San Cristóbal

On foot
35 min
What it is
A higher viewpoint in the Albaicín, usually quieter.

Paseo de los Tristes

On foot
25 min
What it is
A riverside promenade with the Alhambra above you.

The Albaicín streets

On foot
25 min to the start
What it is
Whitewashed lanes and hidden squares. Wander freely.

Paseo del Salón

On foot
15 min
What it is
A flat riverside walk by the Genil. See the Realejo⁠.
Street art on a wall in Granada
Street art on a wall in Granada
A tree-lined promenade
A tree-lined promenade
A fountain in a square in the old centre
A fountain in a square in the old centre
Free to enter or to walk past

Buildings and gardens

The façade of Granada Cathedral
The façade of Granada Cathedral

Corral del Carbón

On foot
20 min
What it is
A 14th-century Nasrid inn with a courtyard, free to enter.

Carmen de los Mártires gardens

On foot
20 min
What it is
City gardens with views, free to enter.

Plaza Nueva

On foot
20 min
What it is
The hub of the city at the foot of the Alhambra hill.

Cathedral and the Alcaicería

On foot
25 min
What it is
Walk around the cathedral and through the old silk market.

Realejo street art

On foot
Around Terraza 6
What it is
Murals by El Niño de las Pinturas. See the Realejo guide⁠.

Opening hours change by season, and some gardens close for events. Check before you go.

The best free thing

Eat for less

A busy tapas terrace in a Granada square at night
A busy tapas terrace in a Granada square at night

In many bars a free tapa arrives with every drink. A few rounds make a light meal for the price of the drinks. See Free tapas for how to order and where to start.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Is the Alhambra free?

No. The Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife and the Alcazaba need a ticket. The Charles V Palace, the Alhambra Museum and the Mosque baths are free to enter, according to the official ticket page.

Is the Mirador de San Nicolás free?

Yes. It is an open viewpoint in the Albaicín and is free at any hour.

Is the Corral del Carbón free?

Yes. It is a 14th-century Nasrid inn with a courtyard that you can enter for free. Check the current hours.

What is the best free thing to do in Granada?

Sunset from the Mirador de San Nicolás, followed by tapas where each drink comes with a free plate.

Are there free walking tours?

Yes, there are tips-based walking tours in the centre. Check reviews and the meeting point before you go.

Terraza 6 · Realejo

Stay in the middle of it

Terraza 6 is a private apartment with a pool and terrace in Realejo, a short walk from the Alhambra, the cathedral and the best tapas bars.

Book direct for the best price. No booking fees.
Luxury Apartment Granada

Quiet, private, and set up for direct booking

Ideal for couples, honeymoon stays, and small families up to 4 guests who want privacy, views, and easy planning.

  • Best rate direct
  • No booking fees
  • Direct contact with the owner
  • Private pool
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