Grenada
Travel Advice for Seniors: Grenada
Grenada is a must-see stop for nothing other to visit the exquisite Alhambra and gardens. But there is also much to do in the city. We were only visiting for one day and the Alhambra was first on our list.
The crown jewel of Grenada, the Alhambra sits on a hill in the center of the city, its Islamic architecture dominating the skyline. It is one of the most famous monuments in Spain and certainly one of the most visited.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra is a palace and a fortress as well as the iconic symbol the Nasrid dynasty that ruled Granada and Islamic Spain from 1232 to 1492. The Arab Nasrid dynasty was the last Muslim dynasty in the Iberian Peninsula to fall to Spain. It later become a royal residence for Spain’s monarchs.
In addition to the royal palace the Alhambra also is known for its patios, reflecting pools, fountains and extensive gardens that are Generalife.
Plan to spend about 3-4 hours exploring the grounds. Not to be missed are the Alcazaba, the original citadel and fortress, offering stellar views of Granada, the Palace of the Lions, the Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Gardens.
The Alhambra is about 80% accessible, with special parking places, wide doors, ramps, lifts and smooth walkways. A free wheelchair service is available at the main entrance.
A word here about Christopher Columbus, who witnessed the surrender of Granada to the Spanish in 1492….Queen Isabella I ruled with King Ferdinand II from about 1479 until her death in 1504. Their rule led to the permanent union of Spain and the beginning of an overseas empire in the New World. They financed Columbus’ trip to the Americas to bring back gold, spices, and silks from the Far East, to spread Christianity, and to lead an expedition to China. Happily, his voyage got sidetracked in the Americas and didn’t make it to China. Queen Isabella also empowered the Spanish Inquisition.
There are many things to do in Granada, besides visiting the Alhambra including walking through the old Moorish Quarter of Albaicin , visiting the Granada Cathedral and checking out some flamenco dancing in the Saromonte. I would’ve liked to have spent a second day in Granada, but we had a lot to pack into our trip of Spain and much more to see with Valencia and Barcelona coming up!
Where we stayed: Hotel Alhamar. Nice accommodation, breakfast included. Conveniently located.
How we got there: About a two-hour drive from Marbella to Granada. This was part of a 14-day small group tour through Spain, starting in Madrid and ending in Barcelona.
General Accessibility Information: See notes above.Major tourist sights, newer hotels, transportation in most major cities are accessible. Visitors can get accessibility support and information through Spain Is Accessible. Call in advance to verify and make specialty arrangements. See our sections on specialty apps and accessible travel for more on accessibility assistance.
