A: City tour - During the morning walking tour
both aspects of the Moorish history and reign of the Catholic
Kings can be discovered when starting the tour at Plaza Nueva,
then up through the winding streets of the Jewish Albaicin Quarter
alongside the river, and a visit to a Carmen house for its spectacular
views of the Alhambra. Then you pass the Almohade Mezquita before
venturing down into the centre to visit the Cathedral, Royal
Chapel, and ancient Arabic market plus much more. The tour is
quite physically demanding due to the hilly location of some
the sights in Granada, so it’s important to be comfortable with
some uphill walking, and be in a reasonably good condition for
such a walking tour. The tour aims to offer you the chance to
see the three main influences on Granada with Muslims, Christians,
and Gypsies living side by side and making Granada what it is
today, as well as much of its past. The main attractions are
a must, but this tour also offers you a chance to see a more
intimate side of Granada.
B: Alhambra Tour - The Alhambra Palace represents a
long period of important history in Granada, from the ancient
past when all the old monuments that we can still see were built
by the Moorish kingdom of Al-Andalus, through the modifications
that some of them underwent during the Christian period, to
the new restorations and latest changes in the city. Built during
the Moslem Nasrid dynasty commencing in the 13th Century, the
Alhambra was built as a heavily fortified citadel with 23 towers
and 4 gates. Inside were, amongst others dwellings, offices,
the royal mint mosques, garrisons, bathhouses and the magnificent
'Palaces' - the Comares complex and the Lion Court complex.
It is these Palaces and Courtyards which are the Jewels in the
Crown of this imposing structure. The design and layout found
here are, beyond doubt, the finest examples of Islamic architectural
art to be found outside of the Islamic world. The perfection
of the architecture, the detail of the faience mosaic and the
complexity of design features are unequalled. That so much has
remained and in such remarkable condition is a testament to
the quality of the craftsmanship and to the dedication of those
who have sought to preserve these historic complexes.
C: Historical Tour
It’s easy to see why Granada has been highly contested throughout
the ages with its fertile plains, two rivers, impenetrable surrounding
mountain range, and relatively short distance to the coast.
Those are a few of the main reasons a wide variety of cultures
have left their mark on this incredible city. Another is the
strong running theme of religion which is the inspiration for
the Granada of the Three Faiths tour, which highlights the intertwined
religions of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The guide will
run through the major events either side of 1492 the year that
played a pivotal role in Granada’s fate. From the Jew shepherds,
to the conversion of the Moors to Christianity, to the role
of San Cecillo first a martyr, now the patron saint of the city.
Since the three have links spanning two thousand years, there
is great deal to find out on this informative and entertaining
tour.
D: Sacromonte Stroll
With views to the Alhambra and the combined feeling of being
rural yet within walking distance of the city, this part of
Granada has been home to some of the best Flamenco talent in
Andalucia. The cave dwellings once buzzed with the raucous zambras,
a spontaneous communal show, long into the night, and have also
inspired a museum to be constructed in dedication to the gyspy
traditions and historic facts of the area. Here you will be
taken on a guided tour and shown the places of interest throughout
the neighbourhood. You will be given the best advice on where
to go and how to get in to some of the more outstanding venues
for some live flamenco at night. There are also many Flamenco
festivals on during the year, as well as a wide variety of live
Flamenco styles, so you’re sure to find what you want.
E: Ceramic Tour & Workshop
The distinctive style of ceramics from Granada has a lot to
do with the strong links with its rich Islamic past. None of
the craftsmanship is lost in today’s modern productions, neither
from the handmade items nor the factory-produced ones. Included
in the tour is a visit to the Fajaluza ceramics factory in Granada,
an important opportunity to see over half a century’s history
right before your eyes. Also included is the expert tuition
of time served local artist and sculptor during a half day workshop,
which will let you realise your full potential with ceramic
work. Designs and techniques are on display for you to decorate
to your own tastes and take home with you. Themes and stylings
from the period of Moorish rule are still created to this day,
which will be on full display in both the production and finished
article aspects - as you visit a factory and museum showcasing
the work of Miguel Ruiz Jimenez. A guide to all the best places
to purchase the finest ceramics is also available, should you
wish take some pottery, or other local crafts, home with you.
F: Tapas Tour
The Mediterraneans have been famous for many years for having
a rich and popular diet throughout the ages. Once the “Garden
of Rome”, Spain and Andalucia have had a plentiful history of
cultivating cereals, wines, and olives that continues to this
day. These typical features of Granada’s gastronomy and much
more can be found on the Food & Wine attractions in and
around Granada. During the Tapas Tour you will sample not only
the diversity of the delicacies, but also the lively and varied
social life of the cities inhabitants. Along the way a new found
appreciation for the multitude of wines on offer will certainly
be complemented by the Wine Stroll accompanied by a charming
local expert. Last but by no means least you will have an opportunity
to apply some of your own culinary skills with a Spanish Cookery
Class. In the nearby Lecrín Valley you will spend an
enjoyable morning learning and creating your own dishes from
a wide array of local tapas dishes.
G: Granada Photo Safari
As photographs are such an integral part of travelling this
has been put together to help find some of the most photogenic
places in Andalucia. This tour focuses on the city itself and
some of its more subtle features. A trip into one of its most
colourful and intriguing neighbourhoods will have you honing
your skills in no time. Your guide has taught graphic design
as well as intimately getting to know the city through a lens
over the years. Along the way you will find out about a wide
a variety of tricks and tips to help you make the most out of
your camera. Everything is covered, portrait improvements, lighting,
different angles, details of focusing, photo composition. Everything
you wanted to know about photography and more is on offer with
this unmissable excursion.