At FITUR 2026 in Madrid, Granada is located within Andalucia’s expansive pavilion, showcasing its model of high-value, responsible tourism that prioritises quality, heritage preservation, and community benefit.
Granada province, in Andalucia, southern Spain, renowned for its Moorish heritage-most notably the iconic Alhambra palace complex, the Albaicin district, and the Sierra Nevada mountains-continues to elevate its visitor experience in 2026. The focus remains on premium, heritage-infused accommodations, cultural depth, and sustainable tourism, capitalising on Granada’s status as a world-class cultural destination while preparing for potential bids like European Capital of Culture status in future years.
Granada’s hospitality sector is undergoing a transformation towards greater luxury, with several high-category properties set to open or reposition in 2026, contributing to a projected significant increase in upscale rooms by 2028.
A flagship addition is the Gran Hotel Claridge Granada, launching in April 2026 as part of the L.V.X. Collection under Preferred Hotels & Resorts. This 70-room luxury boutique hotel occupies a historic building in the Plaza de Villamena (named after a 17th-century Spanish sculptor renowned for religious artworks), positioned just steps from the Granada Cathedral and the Alhambra. It blends sophisticated design with the city’s rich heritage, featuring a signature restaurant celebrating Andalusian culinary traditions, a rooftop restaurant and lounge offering panoramic views of landmarks and the distant Sierra Nevada mountains, plus a boutique wellness centre providing spa treatments and personalised fitness programmes.
Another notable enhancement is the voco Granada, scheduled to open in spring 2026 in partnership with Senator Hotels & Resorts. This marks IHG Hotels & Resorts’ debut in the city, with 167 rooms in a prime location near the historic centre, well-connected transport links, and the convention centre, adding a contemporary premium option to the urban offering.
The Hotel Granada Palace joins the Meli√° Hotels International network as Affiliated by Meli√° from March 2026, integrating into their portfolio and benefiting from enhanced management, branding, and guest experiences while retaining its established presence.
These openings align with Granada’s shift towards luxury tourism, with plans for around 28 new establishments (including a notable proportion of five-star properties) by 2028, many involving sensitive restorations of historic buildings to preserve architectural integrity.
While no entirely new major attractions are slated for exclusive opening in 2026, Granada builds on its unparalleled cultural assets through improved access, immersive experiences, and promotional efforts.
The Alhambra and Generalife continue as centrepieces, with ongoing enhancements to visitor management for sustainable enjoyment, including timed tickets and guided tours that delve deeper into Nasrid history and architecture. The Albaicin neighbourhood gains from boutique hotel integrations that encourage slower, more authentic exploration of its narrow streets, miradores (viewpoints), and traditional teterias (tea houses).
Experiential tourism emphasises gastronomy (tapas culture, regional wines, and dishes like piononos), flamenco performances, and nature in the Sierra Nevada (skiing in winter, hiking and mountain biking in summer). The province promotes year-round appeal, blending urban heritage with outdoor adventures.
Arturo Bernal, Consejero de Turismo y Andalucia Exterior de la Junta de Andalucia, has articulated the regional vision that encompasses Granada: “Andalucia es un destino con estabilidad institucional, planificaci√≥n estrat√©gica y un modelo turistico rentable,” emphasising a balanced, profitable approach focused on sustainability, territorial equity, and long-term prosperity over sheer volume. He has highlighted the need for a tourism model that is “m√°s rentable, equilibrado y comprometido con su territorio y su gente,” aligning with Granada’s premium cultural focus.
