Granada in Andalucia is widely known as the cradle of flamenco, so if you want to experience an authentic flamenco performance, one of Granada’s ‘tablao’ venues is the perfect choice.
There are a few types of venues where flamenco performances are held. My top two recommendations are a tablao venue called La Alborea, and an authentic cave setting at Cuevas Los Tranatos.
I have visited a number of Flamenco shows, so I have first-hand experience of what the show is about and what you can expect. I travel to Granada regularly as I live in Southern Spain, so Granada feels like a second home to me.
In this article I have prepared a detailed guide on choosing the best flamenco shows in Granada, with helpful tips on what to expect from the performance. I have also included a video from one of the shows below.
PS: This article contains affiliate links. If you book your tickets I will earn a small commission that helps me run this site, this is at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
3 Best Flamenco Shows in Granada
Granada offers a variety of different flamenco performances, the majority of which are located in the district of Sacromonte (the cave neighbourhood) and Albaicin (the old town).
I only selected three based on my personal experience and the reviews, each one offers something different and unique, and they all come with glowing reviews from travelers.
1. Tablao Flamenco at La Alborea, Albaicin
Albaicin’s most acclaimed flamenco show, with nearly 3000 guest reviews, offers both reserved seating and the choice to enjoy a drink or meal during the performance.
I booked this show on one of my stays in Granada and was thoroughly impressed!
It’s a professional display far surpassing any impromptu street or restaurant performances, showcasing top-tier artists.
Located just off Plaza St Ana, the venue feels like a small theater building and offers you an option to enhance your experience with a glass of wine or some small tapas, and VIP seating as an upgrade. Photography and video recording are permitted, with no flash (not all shows allow this).
The seating is exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a fantastic view from every spot in the house. I highly recommend this unforgettable experience!
2. Jardines de Zoraya Flamenco, Albaicin
This renowned flamenco show in Albaicin, with over 800 happy guest reviews, is located higher up near Mirador St Nicolas. The venue has an indoor lounge, a tapas bar, and a spacious outdoor garden, creating the ideal ambiance to enjoy various palos (Flamenco styles).
If you plan to attend, you need to arrive 30 minutes before the show starts. While photography is permitted, video recording is not.
If your itinerary includes exploring the upper regions of Albaicin or visiting the scenic viewpoints (miradors), this show makes for a perfect addition to your plans.
To check the venue and photos from the show, visit the link below.
3. Flamenco at Cuevas Los Tarantos
Flamenco, with its roots in the gypsy caves of the Sacromonte neighborhood, is authentically showcased in this performance held in a traditional Sacromonte cave at a venue called Cueva los Tarantos.
With over 1200 reviews, this show is quite popular and due to limited seating, it books up pretty quickly.
Conveniently situated at the edge of Albaicin and Sacromonte, it is easily accessible by foot from Albaicin or by taxi.
Your ticket includes a complimentary drink, and there are no restrictions on taking photos or videos during the show.
Video: Flamenco in Albaicin
Here is some footage from La Alborea and a summary of the main points of the article.
Flamenco Shows in Granada: How to Choose Yours
As I mentioned earlier, Albaicin offers a variety of different flamenco performances.
They vary in the type of venue they use for the performance, the experience of the artists, and the type of flamenco performed.
In my opinion, you get the most professional show if you book a dedicated flamenco venue, like La Alborea, or then a cave performance, which is a more authentic experience.
1. Flamenco Show in a Dedicated Venue
Venues such as La Alborea feature a rotating lineup of diverse artists and performances throughout the week.
These venues are akin to small theaters in their setup and are known for hosting some of the highest-quality artists.
The show focuses more on technical proficiency and skill, rather than relying on elaborate costumes to captivate the audience.
2. Flamenco Show in a Cave
Experiencing flamenco in a cave is likely the most authentic setting you can find, though the technical prowess of the performance might not match that of more formal venues.
This can vary depending on the artist and the specific location.
Cave venues typically have constrained space, affecting both the dance area and seating arrangements.
If you’re looking to take photos, be prepared for a bit of a challenge due to being on the same level as the performers or having a partially blocked view.
3. Flamenco Show in a Restaurant
A few restaurants in Granada offer a free flamenco performance if you book a dinner, a similar concept has been adopted in other big cities like Cordoba.
These are normally semi-professional artists and the show is more about entertainment rather than technical accuracy or show of skill.
4. Flamenco Show at Other Venues
You might be surprised, but you can see a Flamenco show even in a Torture Museum! You read that right!
When I visited the museum I noticed they have downstairs space in the courtyard set up for flamenco shows, and that’s just one of the many random locations where you can experience a flamenco show.
5. Flamenco Show at a Public Square
Plaza St Ana is a popular gathering place for street artists, with flamenco performances being a common sight.
The quality of these performances can range from subpar to outstanding, depending on the performer.
Often, you’ll find dance students looking to earn some extra money, while at other times, it might be local women from Sacromonte seeking additional income.
What to Expect at Flamenco Show
In a traditional Flamenco performance, there are typically four artists: a singer, a guitarist, and two dancers.
The show usually begins with a guitar solo, transitions into a solo by the singer, and then showcases a variety of flamenco styles.
Throughout the performance, the dancers often switch costumes, and the show generally extends for at least an hour.
Many venues provide the option to enjoy drinks and snacks, or even a full dinner, while watching the show.
Regarding attire, there is no strict dress code for attending a flamenco show.
Final Thoughts
So have you found a show you love? I hope so!
There are more to choose from, certainly, but I feel like these three are definitely worth your money and time. When you go, do let me know how you like them.
Thank you for reading.
Other Experiences in Granada
5 Best Sacromonte Walking Tours in Granada
7 Best Walking Tours in Granada
My Favourite Places in Granada
La Cartuja Monastery in Granada:
The Majestic Granada Cathedral and The Royal Chappel
Science Museum in Granada: A Must See
Casa del Chapiz, Granada: A Photo Tour
Sacromonte Caves Museum in Granada
Sacromonte Abbey: Underground Treasures in Granada
LOVE it? PIN it for Later!
