Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour

Tour Details

At the indicated time, we’ll meet outside the Alhambra and begin discovering the history of this artistic jewel, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the visit, we'll explore the stunning Nasrid Palaces, the elegant residences where the Andalusi rulers consolidated their power, nurtured the arts, loved passionately, and endured the sorrow of losing their beloved Granada forever.

Within the Alhambra, whose name derives from the Arabic al Qal'a al hamra, meaning “red fortress,” we’ll explore the chambers that make up the three Nasrid Palaces: the Palace of Mexuar, the Palace of Comares, and the Palace of the Lions. In the latter, we’ll admire the famous Court of the Lions and its iconic fountain. Just a few steps away, we’ll also see another fountain marked by reddish stains at its base. Legend has it that they're traces of blood that was shed during the feud between the Nasrid and Abencerraje families.

The Alhambra stands as an essential treasure in the History of Art. As we make our way toward the Palace of Charles V, we’ll attempt to decipher the intricate ornamentation of the Nasrid Palaces. Did you know that Charles V spent his honeymoon here with Isabella of Portugal? Some chronicles even claim that the future king Philip II of Spain was conceived within these walls.

We’ll continue our guided tour alongside the remains of the Medina and the Alcazaba of the Alhambra, the military quarter that once protected the entire complex. Here, we’ll see the Torre de la Vela, whose bell rings every January 2nd to commemorate the conquest of Granada by the Catholic Monarchs.

During this experience, we'll also stroll through the gardens of Generalife. This beautiful garden estate, adjacent to the Alhambra, was the retreat where Nasrid emirs once relaxed among fountains and irrigation channels, planning both political and romantic conquests.

Availability

The number of admissions to the Alhambra is limited, and tickets sell out quickly, so we recommend booking your tour as far in advance as possible, especially on weekends and holidays.

If there is no availability, we recommend booking the following activity: Alhambra Guided Tour. You won't have access to the Nasrid Palaces, but you'll be able to visit the rest of the rooms of this historical site.

Changes to the Itinerary

Due to the Alhambra’s conservation policies, the starting time of the activity may be subject to change. Please keep an eye on your phone and email 24 hours before your visit.

Additionally, for organizational reasons, the order of the visits described in the itinerary may vary.

Small Group Tour

If you prefer a more intimate experience, you may prefer to opt for a small-group guided tour of the Alhambra and the Nasrid Palaces.

Private Tour

If you want the most enriching experience, we recommend exploring Spain’s most visited monument with your own personal guide. Check out this private tour of the Alhambra and the Nasrid Palaces.

Other Tours

If you are looking for alternative ways to visit Granada’s most iconic monument, you can explore other guided tour options of the Alhambra or the Nasrid Palaces.