Granada: Alhambra Guided Tour including Nasrid Palaces

Granada , Spain

Granada: Alhambra Guided Tour including Nasrid Palaces

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About this experience

Discover the magic of the Alhambra on our 3-hour guided tour! Enjoy exclusive access to the Nasrid Palaces, explore the lush Generalife Gardens, and climb the Torre de la Vela for breathtaking views. Our expert guide will share in-depth historical insights and captivating stories, bringing the rich history and intricate architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site to life. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this extraordinary and unique monument.

Available options

Small Group Tour

Small groups of 15 people or fewer

Group Tour

Groups of 25 people or fewer

What's included

Expert, English-speaking Tour Guide

Visit to the Generalife Gardens

Entry Ticket to the Alhambra

Visit to the Palace of Charles V

Entry Ticket to the Nasrid Palace

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your expert guide at the entrance and receive a brief yet captivating introduction to the Alhambra's history, architecture, and significance in both Spanish and Moorish heritage. This tour is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of one of Spain's most celebrated monuments.

Your tour begins in the serene Generalife Gardens, the summer retreat of the Nasrid rulers. As you stroll through these beautifully landscaped gardens, you'll be surrounded by vibrant flowerbeds, ornate fountains, and lush greenery. The garden terraces offer stunning views of Granada and the picturesque countryside, setting a tranquil tone for your experience.

Next, you'll visit the Alcazaba Fortress, the oldest part of the Alhambra. This robust structure stands as a testament to the strategic prowess of the Nasrid Kingdom. Climb the Torre de la Vela for breathtaking views of the Alhambra complex and the city of Granada below, and learn about the fortress's crucial role in the defense of the kingdom.

Stop 4

The highlight of your tour still awaits as you enter the renowned Nasrid Palaces. Here, you'll be mesmerized by the exquisite Islamic art and architecture that adorns every corner. From the intricate tilework and stucco decorations in the Mexuar to the serene ambiance of the Court of the Myrtles, each space tells a unique story. The Hall of the Ambassadors, with its grand geometric patterns and calligraphy, and the iconic Court of the Lions, with its central fountain supported by twelve marble lions, will leave you in awe.

Your tour culminates with visits to the Hall of the Two Sisters and the Hall of the Abencerrajes, each featuring its own unique charm and historical significance. Throughout your journey, our expert guide will share fascinating insights and little-known stories, enriching your experience and deepening your appreciation for this historical masterpiece.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pick up/drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

227 reviews

5★

219

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Due to the current policy of the Alhambra, you must make available to City Wonders the full name, ID or passport number and nationality of each traveler and also present the ID or passport before entering the monument. Without all this data, the entry can be rejected

Please note that the order of the tour itinerary may be subject to change to ensure the best possible experience for you.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the main entrance of Alhambra (where the ticket office is located), next to the venue's official "Meeting point / Punto de encuentro" sign (white background, blue hexagone) located in a small gravel esplanade with trees. Your guide will carry a City Wonders flag

Important notes

• In order to comply with legal regulations, the venue may request to see the document used for identification at the time of booking. Please bring it with you to avoid being refused entry into the Alhambra.

• It is the responsibility of all visitors to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure. Guests arriving after departure cannot be accommodated, & missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
• Our City Wonders guides will have a City Wonders sign with the name of the tour at the meeting point for easy recognition.
• For help with meeting points or other urgent issues once in Spain, please phone +34 932 20 90 75 or the international number (0039) 06 8336 0561.
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
•We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
• Spain’s tourist sites are among the most popular in the world. Careful planning limit our crowd exposure, but please be aware that some locations may be unavoidably busy during standard hours.
• Please note that large bags/tripods/umbrellas/backpacks are not permitted and must be checked into the free luggage storage area. Please do not bring these items as you may need to leave the tour early to retrieve them at the entrance. Only very small bags are allowed.
• We will do everything within our power to ensure timings and itineraries are respected; however, due to issues beyond our control, timings and sites are subject to last minute changes on rare occasions.

About Granada

Granada is a city in southern Spain known for its rich Moorish heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to the iconic Alhambra, a breathtaking palace and fortress complex that stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and architectural brilliance.

Top Attractions

Alhambra

The Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex that stands as a testament to the Moorish heritage of Granada. It is one of the most visited monuments in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Architecture 3-4 hours €14-€27

Albaicín

Albaicín is a historic Moorish district known for its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for its unique charm and cultural significance.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Sacromonte

Sacromonte is a gypsy quarter known for its cave houses, flamenco performances, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life in Granada.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, flamenco shows vary in price

Cathedral of Granada

The Cathedral of Granada is a stunning example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Spain and a must-visit for its historical and architectural significance.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours €5

Granada Science Park

The Granada Science Park is an interactive science museum that offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It features a planetarium, aquarium, and various interactive exhibits.

Museum/Science 2-3 hours €6-€12

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tapa

A small dish typically served with drinks, often free with the purchase of a beverage. Common tapas include olives, cheese, ham, and seafood.

Appetizer Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Gazpacho

A cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil. It is refreshing and perfect for hot summer days.

Soup Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

Salmorejo

A thick, cold soup made from tomatoes, bread, garlic, and olive oil, often topped with ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Soup Vegetarian option available (without ham and eggs)

Plato Alpujarreño

A traditional dish from the Alpujarras region, featuring a variety of meats (such as ham, sausage, and pork), potatoes, eggs, and sometimes blood sausage.

Main Course Contains meat and pork products

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sierra Nevada Rock climbing Mountain biking Beach relaxation in Nerja Spa treatments Strolling through Albaicín Visiting the Alhambra Exploring Albaicín and Sacromonte

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

This is the best time to visit Granada as the weather is pleasant, and the city is not overly crowded. It's perfect for exploring the outdoors and visiting the Alhambra.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Granada is generally safe for travelers, but common sense and basic precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as markets and tourist attractions
• Use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging
• Be wary of distractions and common scams, such as fake petitions or spilled drinks

Getting there

By air

Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Granada Station

By bus

Granada Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Albaicín Sacromonte Realejo Alaycín

Day trips

Alpujarras

70 km from Granada • Full day

The Alpujarras is a picturesque region in the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for its white villages, terraced landscapes, and traditional way of life. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Andalusian culture and stunning natural beauty.

Sierra Nevada

30 km from Granada • Full day

Sierra Nevada is a stunning mountain range offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. The area is also home to the famous Pradollano ski resort.

Nerja

50 km from Granada • Half day to full day

Nerja is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and the famous Balcón de Europa, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Festivals

Feria de Granada • August (dates vary) Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary) Corpus Christi • May or June (dates vary)

Pro tips

Book tickets for the Alhambra well in advance, as they sell out quickly
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Take advantage of the free tapas tradition by trying different bars and restaurants
Visit the Alhambra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and immerse yourself in the culture