Mirador de San Nicolás in Granada - Spectacular Views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada

The Mirador de San Nicolás is is renowned as one of Granada's most iconic viewpoints. Few sights in the world are as unforgettable, but this one is certainly among them.


Ever since Bill Clinton visited it in 1997 and said he saw "the most beautiful sunset in the world", it has become a must-see for tourists.

Actually, he probably never said that because the sun is behind your back and covered by the hill.

Nevertheless, the beauty of this viewpoint is undeniable: the Alhambra and the Generalife facing each other, the city at their feet and Sierra Nevada behind.

The charm of its surroundings, in the heart of the Albaicin district, , with its cobbled streets, wells, tapas bars, and people, adds flavor to the picture.

The Church of San Nicolás, built in 1525 over a mosque like many other churches in Granada, gives its name to the square and the viewpoint.

The temple, featuring a blend of Mudejar and Gothic styles, has recently undergone restoration. It stands in stark contrast to the other churches in Granada, with a combination of modern and traditional artwork.

Its image is an integral part of the San Nicolás viewpoint.

The viewpoint is always crowded. If you prefer solitude, you can explore the surrounding area on foot and visit lesser-known viewpoints.

How to Reach and Location of the Mirador de San Nicolás?

There are two buses that go to the Mirador de San Nicolás: C31 and C32, and both lines pass through Plaza Nueva, Paseo de los Tristes and Carrera del Darro.

Lines C31 and C32

The C31 city bus from Plaza Nueva takes you to the viewpoint.

The C32 also makes stops at Alhambra and in the Realejo neighborhood. Therefore, you can board either of these stops to reach the San Nicolás.

These buses are small, seating only about 20 people, so they are almost always full. You may have to wait for the next bus to board.

Line C34

From Plaza Nueva, there is also the route number C34, which is also a minibus and goes to Sacromonte.

These are not as crowded, but you have to get off halfway up the Cuesta del Chapiz, just as the bus turns right at Placeta del Peso de la Harina, where the statue of the gypsy Chorrojumo is.

From here, you will have to continue walking uphill for about 10 minutes.

How to walk to the Mirador de San Nicolás?

If you have good legs and like to walk, you can ascend by foot.

From Plaza Nueva walk along the Paseo de los Tristes, the Cuesta del Chápiz, and turn left when you reach the Iglesia del Salvador, along the Carril de las Tomasas.

It is a very pleasant walk with nice views, but it is very steep.

Where to eat in Mirador de San Nicolás?

There are several places to eat well at the Mirador de San Nicolás. Some offer magnificent views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada.

If you want to eat while enjoying the views, these restaurants are perfect, but expensive.

If you have already enjoyed the views of the Alhambra and want to spend less, there are restaurants (Kiki and El Mirador) about 50 meters from the viewpoint. They don't have views, but you can eat well and they are cheaper.

Some restaurants at the Mirador de San Nicolás:

Restaurant Balcón de San Nicolás

Restaurant is situated just below the Mirador de San Nicolás, providing the same views with fewer people.

It features a terrace in one of the most impressive places in Granada, equipped with about 10 tables. One can imagine that on days with good weather, the terrace is often full.

Here are some prices from their menu:

Calamar a la Plancha: 18 euros, Dorada al Papillote: 18 euros, Brocheta de pescado, mariscos y Verdura: 25 euros, Bacalao Gitano: 25 euros, Beer and soft drinks: 2.50-3.00 euros.

Restaurant Huerto de Juan Ranas

Restaurant Huerto de Juan Ranas is another establishment boasting the best views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada, allowing you to observe almost all of Granada.

As always, if a restaurant is in a special location, it is expensive; but the quality, views, and service are good.

The terrace at Huerto de Juan Ranas is more extensive than that of Balcón de San Nicolás, featuring approximately 20 tables. There is usually a queue to enter.

Situated below the San Nicolás, a little to the left, the restaurant offers a unique perspective.

Huerto de Juan Ranas provides distinct menus for the terrace and the interior lounge, as well as a menu tailored for groups.

The prices for main courses typically range from 22 to 26 euros. For instance, Rabo de Toro is priced at 22 euros.

Restaurant Estrellas de San Nicolás

Right next to the viewpoint, there is a small restaurant named Estrellas de San Nicolás.

It features a terrace overlooking the Alhambra, although there are also tables behind the restaurant without views.

The quality is good, and the dishes and desserts are delicious. However, the prices are on the higher side, consistent with most restaurants in this area.

In addition to their regular menu, Estrellas de San Nicolás offers a three-course set menu priced at 21 euros.

This set menu includes a choice of three starters, three main courses, and three desserts.

Here are some examples of dishes from their menu along with their prices:

Salmorejo: 10.50 euros, Goat Cheese Salad: 12.50 euros, Eggplants with Honey: 11.50 euros, Tuna Tartar: 19.50 euros.

Bar Kiki and Restaurant el Mirador

These two restaurants are located just behind the Mirador de San Nicolás, past the church, and are situated next to each other. They appear to function as one restaurant.

While they do not offer a view, their prices are more reasonable compared to other restaurants in the area.

It is a place with a good atmosphere, featuring typical dishes from Granada, tapas, and a lively crowd. You can savor excellent seafood, rice, or octopus.

Here are some of their dishes along with their prices:

El Mirador:
Calamares Fritos: 9.50 euros, Solomillo a la Pimienta: 14.50 euros, Boquerones Fritos: 8.90 euros, Ensalada Cesar: 6.50 euros, Salmorejo: 4.50 euros.

Kiki:
Fried Squid: 10 euros, Fried Anchovies: 10 euros, Cazon: 10 euros, Fried Fish: 16 euros.

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