Summer in Granada is a delicious paradox. Yes, the sun blazes — but so does the desire to experience the city as it truly deserves: calmly, with flavour, and full of authenticity.
Far from being inhospitable, Granada in summer opens up to new rhythms, shaded corners, refreshing tastes and experiences that can only be enjoyed at a slower pace. If you’re planning a summer getaway to Andalusia, take note: here are five brilliant ways to enjoy Granada without melting in the process.
5 plans to enjoy the Summer in Granada
1. Rise early (or head out when the sun goes down)
In Granada, summer isn’t measured in hours — it’s measured in degrees. Take advantage of the early mornings to discover the city at its most peaceful and serene. At dawn, the cobbled streets of the Albaicín feel like something out of a fairy tale, and the quiet is a gift for those who start their day early.
After breakfast, make your way up to the Mirador de San Miguel Alto — one of the city’s best-kept secrets — for unbeatable panoramic views of the Alhambra, Sierra Nevada, and the entire city. Later, when the sun starts to ease off, take a leisurely stroll through the Realejo district, watch the lanterns glow inside the teahouses, or wander along the iconic Paseo de los Tristes — a name that never reflects the joy it offers.
2. Museums, palaces and hammams: chilled culture with a side of history
Summer is the perfect excuse to explore Granada’s artistic and historical side — indoors. Many of the city’s cultural attractions are air-conditioned, turning them into refreshing sanctuaries during the hottest hours of the day.
Empieza por el Palacio de Carlos V, donde se encuentra el Museo de la Alhambra y el Museo de Bellas Artes y continua en el Centro Federico García Lorca, en plena plaza de La Romanilla. ¿Te apetece algo diferente? Regálate una experiencia sensorial en los baños árabes Hammam Al Ándalus, donde podrás sumergirte en aguas templadas y frías, recibir un masaje relajante y reconectar contigo mismo entre arcos, velas y silencio.
Start at the Palace of Charles V, home to both the Alhambra Museum and the Fine Arts Museum, and then continue to the Federico García Lorca Centre in lively Plaza de la Romanilla. Fancy something different? Treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the Hammam Al Ándalus — a serene space of warm and cold baths, gentle lighting, arches and aromas where you can truly unwind and reconnect with yourself.
3. Tapas in the shade: the art of slow indulgence
One of Granada’s greatest summer pleasures is sitting in the shade with a cold drink and a freshly made tapa. The city’s beloved tradition of free tapas doesn’t take a summer break — but you’ll definitely want to seek out terraces with shade, leafy courtyards or well-cooled interiors to savour the experience comfortably.
In the city centre, places like Los Diamantes, Los Manueles and Bodegas Castañeda are famous for their quality and local atmosphere. Fancy something more offbeat? Head to Campo del Príncipe or Calle Navas and follow your instincts. In Granada, the tapa comes with your drink… and with the full experience.
4. Magical nights to fall in love with
When the sun sets, Granada comes alive. Cool evening air brings with it open-air concerts, flamenco shows and unforgettable nighttime strolls through the city’s most iconic spots. A must-see is the “Lorca y Granada” series held in the Generalife Gardens — a magical blend of music, dance, and theatre set against the backdrop of the Alhambra.
You can also surrender to the spell of the Sacromonte and catch a flamenco show in an authentic cave venue, or sip a cocktail on a rooftop terrace while the city glows below.
5. Day trips to escape the urban heat
Need a proper breath of fresh air? Just 40 minutes from the city lies Sierra Nevada, where temperatures drop and the mountain trails attract cyclists, hikers, and families alike. There are routes for all levels and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Alternatively, head for the Alpujarra region — think whitewashed villages, winding lanes and fountains of fresh spring water. Towns like Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira invite you to slow down. And if you’re craving a dip, cool off in the natural pools of the Río Verde, such as the Otívar one, or relax in the thermal waters of Alhama de Granada.
And when your body needs to recharge…
After a full day exploring Granada — whether under the sun or beneath the stars — you’ll want a comfortable, central base with everything you need to rest and recharge. At Hotel Don Juan, we offer all that and more: spacious, air-conditioned rooms, buffet breakfast, discounted parking nearby, and a prime location just a short walk from all the city’s main sights.
Book now via the official
Hotel Don Juan
website and enjoy exclusive benefits — we’ll be waiting for you with open arms and cool rooms!