NIGHFLITE GRANADA

Once night falls, the city turns into one of the liveliest party destinations in Spain, largely thanks to the thousands of university students who live there. So if your Erasmus plans include going out (and they probably do), here’s the complete guide to the best party areas in Granada, spread across the city centre and its outskirts.

How nightlife is organised in Granada

The great thing about Granada is that, being such a compact city, up to eight party areas are spread across the city centre and surrounding areas, from Plaza de Toros all the way to Las Gabias, passing through central spots like Plaza Isabel la Católica or the legendary Pedro Antonio de Alarcón street. Each area has its own vibe, so here’s the full breakdown to help you know where to head depending on what you’re after each night.

Reyes Católicos area: modern music right in the centre

This area stretches from Plaza Isabel la Católica to the streets of Ángel Ganivet and San Matías, and is packed with venues playing modern music built for dancing. It’s one of the most central areas, so if you’re staying in the heart of the city, it’s practically on your doorstep.

Paseo de los Tristes area: the best option in summer

With the Darro River in the background and spectacular views of the Alhambra, this area really comes alive during the warmer months, when the breeze off the Darro makes going out here far more pleasant than in other parts of the city. It has all kinds of pubs, some with more current music styles like dance.

Plaza de Toros area: the student favourite for price

One of the best areas if you’re a student watching your budget. Pubs here tend to have a relaxed atmosphere with rock, indie and similar music, at pretty reasonable prices for everyday university life. As we saw in the housing guide, this area is also one of the most popular to live in, so many students end their night practically around the corner from their flat.

Plaza Nueva and Calle Elvira area: live music

One of the most central areas in the whole city, with a variety of venues including the standout Sala Boom Boom Room. Here the highlight is live music, especially in spring and summer, with jazz and flamenco performances that give it a different feel from the rest of the more «clubbing» party areas.

Mae West and surrounding area: Granada’s big club

Sala Mae West is, without question, one of the most famous and prestigious clubs in the whole city. A whole nightlife area has developed around it, packed with popular venues, so if you’re after a proper club night, this is your spot.

Pedro Antonio de Alarcón area: the classic student choice

If there’s one street that sums up student nightlife in Granada, it’s this one. Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is the most classic party area among Granada’s students, with numerous pubs and venues at good prices, plus fast food spots perfect for finishing off the night. Practically every student in the city passes through here at some point during their Erasmus, so don’t miss it.

Las Gabias area: summer terraces

Designed specifically for the warmer months, Las Gabias offers several bars with terraces in an area that’s less built-up and less crowded than the centre. Ideal if you want to enjoy the night breeze without the buzz of the historic quarter, though being a bit further out, you’ll need to get there by car, bus or taxi.

Fórum area: the quieter option

Located in a less central area, the Fórum zone offers several fairly popular bars with a somewhat more relaxed vibe than the busier areas in the centre. A good alternative if your night out is more about chilling than clubbing until sunrise.

Tips for going out in Granada as an Erasmus student

• If you’re on a tight budget, the Plaza de Toros and Pedro Antonio de Alarcón areas are your best bet, with a very student-friendly atmosphere and prices to match.
• In summer, prioritise Paseo de los Tristes or Las Gabias: both areas come alive with the warm weather, thanks to the breeze and outdoor terraces.
• If you’re into live music, don’t miss the Plaza Nueva and Calle Elvira area, with jazz and flamenco offerings you won’t find in the rest of the party areas.
• Walk whenever you can: most of these areas are within the city centre and close to each other, so you’ll barely need transport except to reach Las Gabias or the Fórum.