The Albaicín

What it is

The medieval quarter across the valley from the Alhambra, a UNESCO site of white houses and lanes too narrow for cars. It is where most of the city's cheap flats and student rooms are.

Getting there

Walk from Plaza Nueva, or the C31 bus if the hill is not appealing. Fifteen minutes on foot.

When to go

Sunset, for the Mirador de San Nicolás — the view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada behind it. It is crowded and it is still worth it.

On a student budget

Free, which matters when the Alhambra is not. The tea houses on Calle Calderería are aimed at tourists and priced accordingly; walk two streets further for the same tea at half the price.

Prices and times last checked August 19, 2026. Treat figures as indicative.