We began our trip a mere 7-hour bus ride from my magical Madrid to the city of Granada my second favorite city in Spain. Opting to take an overnight bus (for a measly 30 euro roundtrip!) we arrived at 6:30am, and headed to our amazing hostel, Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel to rest up before beginning our trek.
The first time I set foot on Granada was during the annual Semana Santa or holy week leading up to Easter Sunday. I was awestruck by the blend of Arabic/European vibes this city exudes. It’s no wonder the city, which was first inhabited by Moroccans and Jews, releases such a bohemian feel. I’d say that Granada encapsulates everything wonderful about the Arabic and European worlds. Did you know Granada was the last remaining Muslim city during the conquista of Queen Isabel la Catolica back in the 1300s!
The ancient Albaizyn neighborhood is unlike any other I’ve been in. White concrete homes crowded together in beautiful rows with terra cotta roof tops and enormous gardens. It’s safe to say that beauty is one thing Granada is pretty good at. But, nothing compares to the grandeur, and architecture that is the Alhambra castle nestled in the hills overlooking Granada. This reminder of Granada’s muslim heritage is a sight to see! It was even considered for the 7 wonders of the world due to it’s impressive detail and design. Muslims are pretty genius!
Beyond Arabic architecture, streets of markets and cobblestones, Granada is the best place to get great food for cheap! They take the culture of tapas more serious than any other Spanish city. Order a 1.80 euro caña de cerveza and get a plate full of food! Seriously! During my visit we never spent more than 10 euro in a sitting and filled up our tummies with delicious treats such as patatas bravas (potatoes in spicy sauce), croquetas (fried balls of potato and ham), tostas (open faced sandwiches), and even hamburgers! If it wasn’t because Madrid has captured my heart, I’d surely move to Granada and never leave!
One of the nights we checked out a flamenco show in the gypsy neighborhood of Sacremonte an area inhabited by caves (yes, real ones!), gypsies and one of the birthplaces of Flamenco
all in all, it’s not hard to spend a couple days here and fall in love.
