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Granada - A Moorish jewel !!

Cities full of character, home of bull fighting and flamenco, Moorish architecture, surrounded by sea and mountain ranges, that's Andalucia, full of colours. It has plenty to do whether you are an adventure freak or someone who loves to chill out on the beach or walk through the cobblestone cultural town center. 
I was particularily drawn to this part of the world due to Caminito del rey, which, at one time was the most dangerous hike in the world. After a recent renovation the thrill and adventure remains the same though the hike is much more safer and accessible for all. There are several gorgeous and famous cities in this region such as Malaga, Cordoba, Granada, Marbella. 
We few into Malaga and decided to rent a car to explore the region. We did our planning in advance and had booked fiat 500 since it's a cute little car and we thought it will add extra charm to our photos. Unfortunately, we were forced into a not so desired upgrade and ended up with Fiat Panda. Though brutal  we decided not to let it ruin our roadtrip and we embraced the panda half heatedly. Granada was first in our itinerary.
Granada has strong moorish influene with several moorish jewels to boast about and hereare my 5 must see places in Granada.
Visit the Famous Alhambra
Alhambra is quite a highlight of this city and you cant leave Granada without visiting Alhambra. Though most of the city has typical spanish ambience, Alhambra, the old Moorish quarters and the gardens takes you back into time and you can feel the grandeur of the moorish rulers.
Built in 13th century, the architecture is quite a mismatch to the architecture in all of europe in general and is more closer to north african or morrocon culture. It reminds of a 800 years long Muslim rule that was spread all across Spain and Portugal. Though reminder of disputed history, places like these are pieces of brilliant art andcultural cross overs. 
Alhambra in itself is a kind of a small kingdom or township, a hill top surrounded by Sierra Nevada mountains in its back drop makes it dramatically scenic and picturesque.  Symettrial gardens, fountains, big courtyards and walls and ceiligs covered in intricate pear-like artwork combines together to make it a perfect blend of moorish liking. There are lots of section such as Generalife, Nasrid Palace, Alcabaza, Royal V palace and it can take several hours to explore the whole surrounding.
Booking tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid the long queues at the ticket office.For more information about tickets , please refer this link: https://granadainfo.com/alhambra/advance.htm
Grand Cathedral
Grand cathedral may not be the highlight of the city but it's surely not something to be missed. Located near to the happening and vibrant streets, surrounded by other historic buildings, this cathedral is worth seeing. Entry price to the cathedral is Euro 5 and can be bought directly at the office.
Next to the cathedral is Alcaiceria market. It was once Arab market and much larger than today’s version. Narrow streets loaded with colors make this place a very photogenic spot. Shops are loaded with small bells, scarves, ceramic items. So even if you are not buying anything, its definitely worth a stroll. 
Generalife
Generalif is part of Alhambra and it's mostly about gardens and variety of fountains. In older times, royal people used to come to these gardens for a break from regular lifestyle. In this part of Alhambra and in fact in whole of Alhambra, what struck me is the variety of fountains and in fact I was a bit surprised that why is water so great feature of these palaces and gardens. Entry to Generalife is not free however after buying tickets you can enter anytime. View of the old white washed Moorish quarter is good. There are plenty of spots of photography here.
Nasrid Palace
Nasrid Palace might be the reason that you are in Alhambra. It will have a time specific entry and don’t deviate from this because they won’t let you in. 10-15mins before entry time is the right time to join the queue.
Nasrid palace is the heart of Alhambra with wonderful architecture, fountains, views and mosaics. Every wall and ceilings covered in fine detailed art work. This palace is undoubtedly an excellence of Moorish architecture with Arabic verses engraved on walls. It lies in a whole lot of area and space after spaces just amazes. Details are beyond amazing.
If you have some more time then there is plenty more to do here. Walk through the old Moorish quarters, enjoy the night view of Alhambra,watch sunset at Sacromonte, hop tapas bars and enjoy flamenco shows. City has got some really good vegan restaurants, hop into one if you are a vegan or vegetarian.
other important information
How to get to Granada: https://www.granadainfo.com/granadatravel.htm
Vegan restaurant we had lunch at: https://www.restaurantehicuriartvegan.com/ 






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