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Alhambra tips | visitor’s guide
Alhambra TicketsTips
Top 10 Alhambra travel tips & hacks
To make it easier for you, we have put together this comprehensive guide with tips and hacks for visiting the Alhambra Palace.
1. Best way to explore Alhambra
There are two ways to enter the Alhambra complex: either through the main entrance or through the Gate of Justice. If you choose to enter through the main entrance, explore the Generalife first and then the Nasrid Palaces and Alcazaba. If you enter through the Gate of Justice, then visiting the opposite way is an ideal route to take.
Alhambra Entrances
2. What to explore before closing time
The last entry is an hour before the closing time on the date chosen. If your visit to the Palace is the last time slot of the day, we recommend you explore the other parts of the Alhambra before visiting the Nasrid Palace as this highlight takes a lot of time to explore.
About the Nasrid Palace
3. What to carry and not carry
You need to carry your passports with you for identification at the entry point. No other identification is accepted. Camera flashes, selfie sticks, tripods, and large backpacks are not allowed inside certain sections of Alhambra Palace.
4. Where to eat
If you are done exploring the Alhambra Palace, do visit the Parador de Granada to grab a bite. This is a restaurant located inside an old monastery and the menu is varied and includes wine, tapas and lots more. We recommend you make a reservation in advance as it tends to get pretty busy.
5. When not to visit
Public Holidays and Saturdays are the busiest days to visit the attraction during any season. Avoid visiting on these days. In case a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, the Spanish do a Puente, that is, they take Monday or Friday off too, making it an extended weekend. In such a scenario, the crowds tend to get massive at Alhambra, and you don’t want that!
Best time to visit Alhambra
6. Special entry for pre-purchase tickets
If you have already purchased your Alhambra Granada tickets online, you can access the Alhambra Palace through the Gate of Justice (Puerta de la Justicia). This entry is closer to Alcazaba, Partal, and Nasrid Palaces and the queues are much shorter than the ones at the main entry point.
Alhambra guided tours
7. Purchase skip-the-line tickets
Skip-the-line tickets are the best to purchase especially if you are visiting Alhambra Palace during the peak season (April to June). The lines tend to get longer during this time of the year and you will spend a good part of your trip just waiting in long lines. Also, it can get very hot standing in line.
Alhambra skip the line tickets
8. What to wear to Alhambra
It depends on the season you are visiting the attraction. Summer is generally scorching hot in Granada, so we recommend you carry light clothing, apply lots of sunscreen, and carry hats. If it is winter, it can get chilly, so carry your jackets, and scarves to keep yourself warm. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot to walk and explore.
9. Best season to visit Alhambra
Spring and summer are the best times to visit Alhambra. You can see the Generalife gardens in full bloom. However, these times of the year also happen to be the peak season and you are likely to see large crowds. However, crowd management is handled quite well inside Alhambra, as only 6000 visitors can enter on a single day.
More about Generalife Gardens
10. Best time to visit during the day
The visit to the Palace is split into 2 sessions – morning and afternoon. The morning sessions last for 5.5 hours and the afternoon sessions are for 4/6 hours. So, visiting in the morning is ideal as you will have more time to explore during the winter, and in the afternoon during the spring, summer, or early fall. Note that the crowds are less during lunchtime – approximately 3pm. This allows you to explore the Palace with fewer tourists.
Frequently asked questions about Alhambra travel tips & hacks
What are some helpful tips I should know before visiting Alhambra Palace in Granada?
We recommend you go on a guided tour of Alhambra to make the most of your visit with your family. Do keep aside 2 to 3 hours to explore the entire fortress.
How can I visit Alhambra Palace in Granada on a budget?
If you are looking at visiting Alhambra on a budget, we recommend you book your tickets online well in advance to enjoy great deals and discounts.
Is there a dress code at Alhambra Palace in Granada?
There is no particular dress code to be followed while visiting Alhambra in Granada. Although, there is a church and if you plan to visit, you need to follow the dress code where you have to cover your shoulders and knees.
Can I shop at Alhambra Palace in Granada?
Yes, there is an Alhambra shop that sells travel guides, publications, and souvenirs.
What are some must-see highlights at Alhambra Palace in Granada?
The Alcazaba, Courtyard of the Lions, Palace of Carlos V, and the Generalife Gardens are a must-see at Alhambra Palace in Granada.
What are some helpful tips to know if I am visiting Alhambra Palace in Granada with my family?
It is ideal to book your tickets online well in advance to enjoy great deals for you and your family. It is best to plan your visit beforehand. We recommend you visit the attraction with your children in the summer. Go early in the morning when it is cool and filled with energy. The visit to Alhambra can be long. Carry snacks and water in a small backpack in case the kids get hungry or thirsty.
Is there a restroom at Alhambra palace in Granada?
Yes, there are a couple of restroom facilities between the Alcazar and Nasrid Palaces.
What other landmarks can I see around Alhambra Palace in Granada?
Royal Chapel of Granada, Basilica de San Juan de Dios, Sacromonte, and Albayzin are some of the landmarks that you can see around Alhambra Palace in Granada.
Do I need an ID to enter Alhambra Palace in Granada?
Yes, you need to carry your passport and show it at the entry point if you want to enter Alhambra Palace in Granada.
