A stunning conversion of a 16th-century convent in Granada with original frescoes, cloisters, and Arabic baths. Modern rooms contrast beautifully with historic architecture.
Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula is an exceptional heritage conversion in Granada, Spain, combining the remains of a 16th-century Hieronymite convent with an 11th-century Moorish house and the former Church of Santa Paula into a single hotel property spread along the Gran Vía de Colón, Granada's main commercial boulevard. The conversion, completed by AC Hotels by Marriott, preserved a remarkable range of historic fabric: original Nasrid plasterwork, Moorish arched doorways, Renaissance carved stone cloisters, painted Mudéjar wooden ceilings, and early frescoes visible in several public areas and some guest rooms. The contrast between these preserved elements and the minimalist contemporary design of the room interiors is one of the hotel's distinguishing features. The property has 76 rooms and junior suites across the historic wings and a modern extension, with some units offering direct views onto the 16th-century cloister or the Moorish courtyard garden. A spa incorporating Arabic bath elements — a reference to the Moorish heritage of the site — offers steam rooms, relaxation pools, and body treatments. The hotel's restaurant serves Granadan cuisine with contemporary presentations, and a daily breakfast buffet is well regarded. The location on Gran Vía de Colón is central: the Cathedral and Royal Chapel of the Catholic Monarchs are 200 metres away, the Bañuelo 11th-century Arab baths are 10 minutes on foot, and the Albaicín quarter climbs behind the hotel. The Alhambra is 1.5 kilometres east, reachable by minibus or a 20-minute walk. Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula is consistently ranked among the finest heritage properties in Andalucía.
Amenities
- spa
- restaurant
- historic building
- cloisters
- central location
Location
Gran Vía de Colón, 31, 18001 Granada
37.1774, -3.5982 View on map
Highlights
- Converted 16th-century Hieronymite convent on Granada's Gran Vía de Colón with preserved Moorish and Renaissance fabric
- Original Nasrid plasterwork, Mudéjar ceilings, and Renaissance cloister visible throughout the property
- Spa with Arabic bath elements — hammam-style steam pools referencing Granada's Moorish heritage
- 200 metres from Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel; 20-minute walk or minibus from the Alhambra
- Rooms with views onto the 16th-century cloister or the Moorish courtyard garden
Tips for visiting
- Request a room with cloister views when booking — they are the most atmospheric and not always assigned by default
- Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel (tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella) are 200 m away — a combined ticket is available
- Alhambra minibus Line C3 stops on Gran Vía very close to the hotel — ask reception for the exact bus stop
- The Bañuelo 11th-century Arab Baths, the best-preserved in Spain, are 10 minutes on foot in the Carrera del Darro
- The hotel's heritage corridors are best explored quietly on weekday mornings — the preserved frescoes reward a slow inspection
Accessibility
Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula is a historic conversion with lift access to all guest floors in the main hotel building. The heritage wings have some uneven stone surfaces and narrow doorways consistent with the building's medieval and early modern origins. Accessible rooms are available; guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel before booking to confirm the most suitable room and discuss any specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
What historic elements are preserved in Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula?
The hotel incorporates a 16th-century Hieronymite convent, an 11th-century Moorish house, and the former Church of Santa Paula. Preserved elements include Nasrid plasterwork, Moorish arched doorways, Renaissance carved stone cloisters, Mudéjar painted wooden ceilings, and medieval frescoes visible in public spaces and some guest rooms.
Where is the hotel located in Granada?
The hotel is on Gran Vía de Colón, Granada's main central boulevard, 200 metres west of the Cathedral. The location provides easy access to the Albaicín quarter, the Realejo neighbourhood, and the Alhambra hill, all within walking distance.
Does the hotel have a spa?
Yes. The spa features Arabic bath-inspired facilities including steam pools, a relaxation area, and a full treatment menu. The design references Granada's Moorish heritage and hammam tradition, connecting the wellness experience to the broader heritage context of the property.
Is Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula suitable for couples visiting Granada?
The hotel is particularly well suited to couples drawn to Granada's art and heritage. The historic setting, intimate atmosphere, spa facilities, and proximity to the Alhambra, Cathedral, and Albaicín make it a strong choice for a Granadan city break in Spain.