Granada offers one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in Spain, where tapas culture, eclectic bars, and lively clubs come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a student looking to join the student nightlife in Granada, or a visitor ready to explore the city’s best clubs and late-night venues, this guide will walk you through the top spots for a memorable night out. From traditional tapas bars to live music venues, here’s everything you need to know about Granada nightlife.
Quick Insights
- Bodegas Castañeda and La Botillería are perfect starting points for the night, offering traditional tapas and drinks in a lively, authentic atmosphere.
- Discoteca Aliatar and El Camborio are among the best clubs in Granada, offering dancing, stunning views, and vibrant energy for students and locals.
- Planta Baja and Sala El Tren are top live music venues for fans of indie, rock, funk, and alternative genres.
- Quilombo and Sala Prince are ideal for those seeking late-night venues with house music, techno, or live performances.
- Each neighborhood in Granada offers a unique nightlife experience, from tapas in El Centro to dancing in Sacromonte.
What are the best clubs in Granada?
The best clubs in Granada include Discoteca Aliatar, known for its glamorous, retro setting and modern dance floor, and El Camborio, popular with students and offering stunning views of the Alhambra. For live music lovers, Planta Baja is a top spot for indie and alternative music, while Sala El Tren caters to fans of rock, reggae, and techno. These clubs offer a mix of dance floors, live performances, and vibrant atmospheres that cater to all nightlife preferences.
Tapas and Drinks to Start the Night
No Regrets Booking Advice
In Granada, a night out often begins with tapas. Many bars serve free tapas with every drink, so you can enjoy delicious Spanish bites while sipping your favorite beverage.
- Bodegas Castañeda: Located in El Centro, this is one of the best spots to kick off your evening. Known for its traditional Andalusian atmosphere, Bodegas Castañeda offers a wide variety of free tapas like jamón, manchego cheese, and seafood, alongside local wines and vermut. Best For: A lively start to the night with a great mix of locals and tourists.
- La Botillería: If you prefer a more intimate vibe, head to La Botillería. This cozy spot is perfect for wine lovers looking to enjoy a well-curated selection of Spanish wines paired with high-quality tapas. It’s quieter and ideal for those looking to ease into the night. Best For: Wine lovers and small groups looking for a relaxed start to the evening.
Tip: The earlier you arrive, the more likely you’ll find a seat at these bustling spots, especially on weekends.
Wanna learn more about the best tapas bars in Granada?
Top Flamenco Shows
Granada is a hub for authentic flamenco, offering a wide range of performances that capture the intensity and passion of this traditional Andalusian art.
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One of the top venues is Le Chien Andalou, located near Plaza Nueva. This small, intimate space brings you up close to the performers, making it a raw, emotional experience. Another iconic venue is La Alboreá, located in the heart of the city near Plaza Bib-Rambla, where you can enjoy authentic shows that blend music, song, and dance.
For those looking to combine history and flamenco, Venta El Gallo in Sacromonte offers performances inside the famous caves, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere with views of the Alhambra.
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Rooftop Bars
For unbeatable views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada, Granada’s rooftop bars are a must-visit. B-Heaven Bar, located at the top of Barceló Carmen Hotel, offers panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for a sunset cocktail.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Another popular spot is El Huerto de Juan Ranas, perched in the Albaicín district, where the Alhambra is front and center while you sip your favorite drink.
For a more laid-back vibe, Lemon Rock Bar & Hostel offers rooftop seating with live music, providing a perfect blend of atmosphere and entertainment.
Wanna learn more about the best rooftop bars in Granada?
Pub Crawl: Best Bars to Go for a Night Out
If you’re looking to experience the best of Granada nightlife, a pub crawl is the way to go. Start your night at Bodegas Castañeda, a traditional spot known for its wide selection of local wines and free tapas.
From there, head to Los Manueles for its famous croquetas and lively atmosphere. As the night progresses, make your way to La Trastienda, known for its modern vibe and craft beers.
Finally, for those who want to keep the party going, Pata Palo offers Latin beats and a packed dance floor well into the early morning hours.
Wanna learn more about the best bars for a pub crawl in Granada?
Where to Dance in Granada
Once you’ve filled up on tapas, it’s time to hit the dance floor. Granada’s clubs offer a variety of experiences, from retro-glam clubs to lively student favorites.
- Discoteca Aliatar: One of the best clubs in Granada, Aliatar is a stylish venue housed in an old cinema. With its glowing neon lights and glamorous décor, it’s a hotspot for both locals and tourists. You’ll find a range of music from electronic to pop, and the spacious dance floor ensures plenty of room for partying until the early hours. Best For: Tourists and locals looking for an elegant, high-energy night of dancing.
- El Camborio: If you’re interested in student nightlife in Granada, El Camborio is a must-visit. This club is located in the Sacromonte neighborhood and offers stunning views of the Alhambra from its outdoor terrace. The music varies from Spanish pop to international hits, and the club attracts a young, energetic crowd. Best For: Students and young party-goers looking for a lively, budget-friendly night out.
Tip: Clubs in Granada typically start filling up after midnight, so plan your night accordingly if you want to avoid long lines.
Wanna learn more about the best nightclubs in Granada?
Live Music and Alternative Venues
For those looking for more than just a dance floor, Granada has a range of live music venues where you can enjoy everything from indie bands to flamenco.
- Planta Baja: This legendary venue is one of the best places for live music in Granada. Offering a mix of indie, rock, funk, and hip-hop, Planta Baja attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers. You can enjoy live bands upstairs or head downstairs for DJ sets that keep the party going. Best For: Indie and alternative music lovers looking for a casual, underground vibe.
- Sala El Tren: Known for its impressive sound system, Sala El Tren is a favorite for fans of techno, reggae, and rock. This venue is located just outside the city center and regularly hosts live performances from international and local acts. Best For: Those seeking a more underground, alternative music scene with high-quality sound.
Tip: Check the schedules for these venues in advance, as they frequently host international acts and themed nights.
Wanna learn more about the best live music venues in Granada?
Flamenco Music and Tapas Tours in Granada
For those looking to combine flamenco music and tapas into one seamless experience, several organized flamenco tours in Granada offer curated evenings that highlight the best of the city’s food and music scene.
One of the most popular options is the Granada Flamenco, Tapas, and Wine Tour, where a local guide takes you through some of the best tapas bars in Granada, offering tastings of traditional Andalusian dishes alongside local wines and vermouth.
The tour ends with an unforgettable live flamenco performance at one of the top venues, like Jardines de Zoraya or El Templo del Flamenco, where you can enjoy both the rich culture of the music and the flavors of Granada. This is a fantastic way to explore the city’s gastronomy and its deep connection to flamenco culture.
Best For: First-time visitors who want a guided experience of Granada’s flamenco and food culture.
Tip: Book in advance, as these tours are popular and offer a more intimate experience with limited group sizes.
Late-Night Spots for After-Hours Fun
When you’re not ready to head home, Granada has plenty of late-night venues to keep the party going.
- Quilombo: Nestled in the Realejo district, Quilombo is perfect for those who love house and techno music. The club’s Moorish-inspired decor and high-energy DJ sets attract a trendy crowd that loves to dance late into the night.Best For: House and techno lovers looking for a small, intimate venue with great beats.
- Sala Prince: A multi-purpose venue, Sala Prince hosts everything from live concerts to all-night parties. This is one of the best spots in Granada for enjoying a mix of live performances and DJ sets in a large, versatile space.Best For: Those who enjoy a mix of live performances and late-night parties.
Pro Tip: Many late-night venues have strict dress codes, so it’s a good idea to dress smart-casual if you’re planning to end your night at one of these clubs.
Neighborhood-Specific Recommendations
Each area of Granada offers a different vibe when it comes to nightlife, so here are some neighborhood highlights:
- El Centro: Best for traditional tapas bars like Bodegas Castañeda and La Botillería, where you can start the night with food and drinks.
- Sacromonte: Perfect for scenic views and venues like El Camborio that attract a younger crowd.
- Realejo: A hub for house music and alternative scenes, with spots like Quilombo and smaller, more intimate venues.
Nightlife in the Albaicín
The Albaicín district offers a unique blend of historic charm and vibrant nightlife. Start your evening with a drink at Mirador de San Nicolás, where the view of the illuminated Alhambra is unparalleled.
For a more intimate experience, head to Café Bar Higuera, tucked away in the winding streets of the Albaicín, where locals gather for drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
If you’re in the mood for dancing, El Camborio, located in the nearby Sacromonte district, is a popular nightclub offering a mix of local music and international hits, complete with stunning views of the city.
FAQs
What time does nightlife start in Granada?
Nightlife in Granada typically starts around 11 PM, with most bars and tapas spots filling up by midnight. Clubs and larger venues, like Discoteca Aliatar, don’t start getting busy until after midnight, and the party continues until 4-6 AM. Plan your evening to start with tapas and drinks, then head to the clubs later in the night.
Where are the best places for tapas in Granada?
Some of the best tapas bars in Granada include Bodegas Castañeda and Los Manueles in El Centro. Both spots offer generous portions of free tapas with every drink, making them perfect places to start your night before heading out to dance or explore the city’s nightlife.
How late do clubs stay open in Granada?
Most clubs in Granada, including popular spots like El Camborio and Discoteca Aliatar, stay open until 5-6 AM. Granada’s nightlife runs late, so it’s common to head to a club after midnight and party into the early hours of the morning.
What is the dress code for clubs in Granada?
While Granada’s nightlife is generally casual, some venues like Discoteca Aliatar may require a smart-casual dress code. It’s best to avoid overly casual attire (like flip-flops or sportswear) when heading to popular clubs, especially on weekends.
Will I need to pay a cover charge at clubs in Granada?
Yes, many clubs in Granada charge a cover fee, especially at popular venues like Aliatar or El Camborio. The cover charge typically ranges from €10 to €20, which often includes a free drink. Some venues offer free entry if you arrive early.
Where can I find live music in Granada?
For live music in Granada, head to Planta Baja for indie, funk, and hip-hop performances, or visit Sala El Tren for larger shows featuring reggae, rock, and techno. These venues frequently host international and local artists, making them must-visit spots for music lovers.
Why is El Camborio popular among students?
El Camborio is especially popular among students due to its affordable drinks, energetic vibe, and incredible views of the Alhambra. It plays a mix of Spanish pop and international hits, attracting a youthful crowd looking to party late into the night.
What is the best time to go to a club in Granada?
The best time to head to a club in Granada is between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM. Most venues, like Aliatar and Pata Palo, start filling up around this time and stay lively until the early morning hours. It’s common to start the night with drinks and tapas before hitting the clubs.
How can I avoid long lines at popular Granada clubs?
To avoid long lines, arrive at clubs like Discoteca Aliatar or El Camborio before midnight, as they tend to get crowded later in the evening. Some venues offer guest lists or VIP entry options, so check online or call ahead for reservations if you’re visiting during peak times like weekends or holidays.
What are the best spots for student nightlife in Granada?
For students, top nightlife spots in Granada include El Camborio, which offers student discounts and a youthful vibe, and Mae West, which features different rooms with varying music styles. The student-heavy Realejo district also has plenty of bars and smaller venues perfect for a budget-friendly night out.
Conclusion: Plan Your Night Out in Granada
From the bustling tapas bars to the energetic dance floors, Granada nightlife has something for everyone. Start your evening with drinks and tapas at Bodegas Castañeda, then make your way to Aliatar or Planta Baja for dancing or live music.
Whether you’re looking for an upscale club experience or a more alternative vibe, Granada’s mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues guarantees an unforgettable night.
