Market

Alcaicería of Granada

Alcaicería of GranadaPerryPlanet · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Alcaicería of Granada is a vibrant network of narrow, winding alleys that once formed the city's main silk market during the Nasrid period. Originally built in the 14th century, it was a bustling commercial hub where silk, spices, and luxury goods were traded. Though the original market was destroyed by fire in 1843, it was faithfully reconstructed in the 19th century, retaining the Moorish character with whitewashed walls, wooden shutters, and small courtyards. Today, it's a lively bazaar filled with shops selling souvenirs, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, and, of course, silk scarves and fabrics. The alleys are covered with canvas awnings to mimic the original market's shade, creating a cool, intimate atmosphere even on hot days. Visiting the Alcaicería is a sensory experience: the smell of leather and incense, the glint of lanterns, the chatter of shopkeepers, and the occasional strum of a guitar. While it's touristy, it's also a genuine slice of Granada's mercantile history. Don't miss the small plaza at the heart of the market, where you can sit at a café and watch the flow of people. The Alcaicería connects directly to the Plaza de Bib-Rambla and the Cathedral, making it a perfect stop during a city stroll.

Don't miss

  • The maze of narrow alleys with whitewashed walls and wooden balconies
  • Shops selling traditional Granada ceramics, damascene metalwork, and silk
  • The central plaza with a fountain and outdoor cafés
  • The lively, bustling atmosphere with street musicians and artisans
  • The proximity to the Cathedral and Plaza de Bib-Rambla

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Alcaicería of Granada

You can wander Alcaicería of Granada on your own. A guide is worth it for knowing what to look for and what to order, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.

Getting there

More attractions in Granada

Planning your trip to Granada? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Granada itinerary.