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Activities in Granada

Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour

  • 456 reviews | 6,003 travellers
    Our young guide, Guillermo, was attentive, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. He loves the Alhambra and the history of Granada, and it shows. He knows how to share his knowledge without being overwhelming. The three-hour tour was conducted at a perfect pace for everyone, including seniors like ourselves, with no waiting at the various checkpoints. On December 23rd, despite the gloomy, even cold and rainy weather, we were awestruck by the truly exceptional Alhambra. Thank you.
    10 Serge

Discover the incredible history and architecture of the impressive Alhambra, the Generalife, and Nasrid Palaces with a passionate and experienced guide on this tour of one of Spain's most iconic monuments. 

Discover the incredible history and architecture of the impressive Alhambra, the Generalife, and Nasrid Palaces with a passionate and experienced guide on this tour of one of Spain's most iconic monuments. 

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.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

3 hours.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

Admission ticket including the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, Generalife and the Partal

Headphones

When to book?

You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Only some areas are accessible. Accessible toilets. Free wheelchair loan service available. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • Printed material is avoided.
  • No single-use plastics are used.
  • The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
  • The activity promotes local production.
  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Anything else to keep in mind when booking?

    A - Please keep in mind that reservations with more than 3 children per group may be subject to change or cancellation.

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Depending on the date, time, or language selected, this tour may be offered by different local suppliers: Nhue Concierge S L Corporate name: Nhue Concierge SL Registered Office: Calle Pavaneras 3, bajo, Granada, Spain Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): B18966085 Contact information Email: nhue@nhue.es Phone: 617436940 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws. Granada A Pie S L Corporate name: GRANADA A PIE S.L. Registered Office: C/Veracruz n 2 1ºH, Ogijares, Spain Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): B18934547 Contact information Email: reservas@granadaapie.com Phone: +34 958 56 34 76 - This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

1F Paseo del Generalife

View map

Depending on the date and time you have selected, your meeting point may change.

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