One Of Spain's Most Underrated Cities Is A Historic Gem Hidden In The Sierra Nevada Mountains

From the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline to the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, Spain offers visitors an incredibly diverse and enriching travel experience across its many regions. Whether you're dreaming of embarking on a sun-kissed Mediterranean vacation or hitting up world-class museums and Michelin-starred eateries, one thing's for sure: Spain is all about immersive, cultural discoveries. After all, the country's rich and complex history — shaped by various religious and cultural influences over centuries — means that each one of the 17 "autonomous communities" in the country has created its own unique regional identity. Distinct areas like Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia, and Andalusia each maintain their own traditions that gives visitors multiple experiences within one nation.

Tucked away in Southern Spain, the vibrant Andalusia holds one of the country's most captivating yet under-appreciated cities: Granada. Located in the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains — and roughly 260 miles south of Madrid — this provincial capital combines natural beauty with extraordinary historical significance. Easily accessible by train or bus from major hubs like Málaga (about an hour and 45 minutes away) and Seville (approximately three hours), Granada stands out as a destination where past and present come together to create a memorable journey through Spanish heritage.

Famously known as the home of the stunning Alhambra, a 13th-century Moorish palace and fortress complex that towers above the city, which earned a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1984. Beyond that fortress, visitors can also explore the winding streets of Albaicín (the old Arab quarter), catch breathtaking sunset views from Mirador San Nicolás, or grab a caña (small beer) at one of the city's many authentic taverns.

Walking through Granada feels like stepping through pages of a history book. From its Moorish architecture to the Catholic churches and Arab-style marketplaces, the city's multicultural and layered heritage is evident in pretty much every corner. All of these aspects come together to reveal a rich past that makes Granada stand out from other bucket-list-worthy Spanish destinations.

Out of all the monuments and landmarks, however, the crown jewel of Granada's historical treasures is the Alhambra. One of Europe's most impressive Islamic architectural monuments, the fortress boasts a collection of intricately carved walls, bubbling fountains, and lush gardens that transport you to another time. Once the royal residence of Nasrid rulers, the building is now home to a museum, which visitors can access through guided tours or self-guided visits with audio guides (just make sure you purchase your tickets weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons). Pro tip: After exploring the site from within, head to Mirador San Nicolás to enjoy some of the best views of this architectural marvel glowing red at sunset –– which gave the Alhambra its name derived from the Arabic "al-hamra," or "the red one".

Beyond the Alhambra, Granada's historical legacy unfolds across several other sites. The Granada Cathedral, for example, built after the Christian reconquest, is an impressive building with a bright white interior that stands in contrast to the typically darker European cathedrals. Alternatively, for a deeper dive into Granada's multicultural past, wander through Sacromonte — where Roma people created homes by carving caves into the hillside. This area is now famous for its intimate flamenco performances. Lastly, visit the Alcaicería, once a grand silk market during Moorish times, which now houses shops selling everything from traditional crafts to spices.

Don't let the city's historic facade fool you, though: Granada offers much more than just historical landmarks. For starters, its convenient location near the Sierra Nevada mountains creates a unique opportunity for travelers. You can literally ski in the morning and explore ancient streets by afternoon, with the mountains just a short drive away. Specifically, the Sierra Nevada ski resort provides excellent slopes during the winter months, while its hiking trails boast spectacular views for travelers visiting during warmer months.

Food-wise, the culinary scene in Granada also stands out for one memorable reason: Free tapas with every drink! Unlike most Spanish cities where you pay for small plates, Granada's bars serve complimentary tapas with each beverage ordered for roughly $3 per glass and plate. A few of the most popular spots in town include Los Diamantes for seafood tapas, Bodegas Castañeda for classic regional dishes, and El Tabernaculo for its quirky Catholic-themed decor.

As for travelers with a bit of a sweet tooth, look no further than Andalusia's famous churros. These fried dough pastries, which date all the way back to Al-Andalus times, have become a staple among locals and visitors alike. Enjoyed at breakfast or as a snack, churros will satisfy your craving at pretty much any time of day — especially at Cafetería Alhambra or Cafe Fútbol, where the thick hot chocolate makes for the perfect dipping companion.