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The Alhambra

  • Granada, Andalusia, Spain

Last updated: 13 March, 2024

The pinnacle of the exquisite refinement and sophistication of Moorish Spain, the Alhambra is where the Arabian Nights come to life.

Dominating Granada from its spectacular hilltop location, with the Sierra Nevada looming in the background, it was the base of the Nasrid kings, the Alhambra ruled from the 13th century until 1492.

Visits include the main palace with the famous lion fountain patio, the Generalife summer palace and its fountain-filled courtyard, the enchanting gardens, the Alcazaba fortress and the Renaissance Palace of Charles V with its circular courtyard: so allow at least three hours to see everything while drinking in the unforgettable views.

Logistics

Price from: £12
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

It’s a 20-minute walk up from the centre of Granada, or take a taxi or minibus C32 or C30.

Book timed tickets online at least two months in advance or consider a guided tour to get the most out of Alhambra and its many stories. Note that your time slot is for entry into the Nasrid Palaces themselves, within the complex’s walls; be punctual.

Bring plenty of water; food is available at the Parador.

When to do it

The site is open all year round, seven days a week.

Go early (the complex opens at 8.30am) or book a night tour, when it’s less crowded. Or go in January or February when tourist numbers are fewest, although the gardens won’t be at their best.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Granada

On this walking tour, discover the secrets of Alhambra, save time with skip-the-line access and explore this wonder of Moorish architecture, unique in Europe. Make sure your camera is fully charged and the memory empty as you will have the opportunity to take thousands of pictures of this incredible palace complex and its surrounding gardens. Your guide will let you know everything about the art, culture, history and religion in each of the areas that you will visit. Get ready to forget everything and plunge into the mysteries of this paradise. This tour gives you a tailor-made tour through the Alhambra complex also including the Alcazaba, Generalife Palace and Gardens and the Palace of Charles V.

Price €30

Min age 0

Rating 4.15 / 5 [3323 ratings]

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  • Granada

Explore the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens on this 3-hour guided walking tour with skip-the-line ticket. There are many reasons why the Alhambra is an impressive and must-see monument . Visiting the Alhambra is a unique experience that combines history, art, architecture and scenic beauty. Do not miss the opportunity to explore one of the most emblematic monuments of Spain.

Price €59

Min age 0

Rating 4.72 / 5 [2581 ratings]

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  • Granada

Explore Alhambra and the Generalife Gardens on this 3-hour skip-the-line walking tour, led by a professional local guide. This tour guarantees you'll have an Alhambra ticket and allows you to visit UNESCO-listed Alhambra with minimum fuss. Admire stunning Moorish architecture in the Nasrid Palaces and gain a glimpse into the lavish lives of the sultans who once lived here.

Price €63

Min age 0

Rating 4.30 / 5 [2024 ratings]

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  • Granada

Skip the lines and embark on a small group tour with a maximum of 15 travellers at Alhambra Palace, a must-see in Granada declared a World Heritage by UNESCO. Learn about the life of sultans and Moorish kings who long ago lived in this majestic palatial city, marvel at the delicate and opulent rooms of the Nasrid palaces. The expert interpreter of Granada’s heritage will guide you through every part that forms the“Red Fortress". Transform this visit into an extraordinary experience, your guide will tell you tales of murder and mystery, also ask for any additional questions that you may have about this spectacular monument. Get some amazing pictures with panoramic views of Granada from the hilltop and make this experience a great memory.

Price €89

Min age 0

Rating 4.69 / 5 [1169 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Seville

Experience Andalusia’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonders on this day trip from Seville to Granada. Enjoy skip-the-line entrance to Alhambra Palace (if option selected), Generalife Gardens, Nasrid Palace and the Alcazaba fortress(if option selected), and explore numerous courtyards filled with fountains, flowerbeds, pavilions and fortresses featuring Moorish architecture. Take an optional walking tour of the Albaicin quarter and learn fascinating facts about these sites from your knowledgeable guide as you travel by comfortable coach. If option selected, explore the surroundings of the Alhambra on your own, taking in the lush greenery and fountains, see ancient towers and stunning views of Granada. Along the way, you'll discover hidden paths, shaded by cypress trees, and admire the contrasting architecture of the Charles V Palace.

Price €75

Min age 0

Rating 4.16 / 5 [1093 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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