Skip-the-Line Alhambra, Generalife, and Nasrid Palaces Tour

Uncover Spain’s Moorish past at the royal palaces and lavish gardens of the Great Citadel of Granada

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Skip-the-Line Alhambra, Generalife, and Nasrid Palaces Tour 5 / 5 See All 25 Reviews
· 3.00h · Granada, Spain

Skip the stress of planning and make the most of your time at the Alhambra and Generalife gardens. Our small-group tour offers seamless access, with skip-the-line tickets and expert guides to help you uncover both the iconic sites and hidden gems of this historic landmark. Explore the grand fortress, wander through the serene gardens where the Sultans once relaxed, and discover the stunning Nasrid Palaces in just a few hours, all while enjoying a hassle-free, immersive experience.

  • Meet outside Alhambra's ticket office​
  • Great Citadel of Granada
  • Palace of Charles V
  • Torre de la Vela
  • The Grand Throne Room and ceiling
  • The Nasrid Palaces and courtyards
  • Generalife gardens
  • Court of Lions
  • Royal fountains and orchards
  • Views of the city
  • Finish your tour at your own leisure at Generalife Gardens

You'll meet your friendly local guide at the Alhambra entrance, where you'll skip the line to start exploring the hilltop citadel straight away. Your tour will lead you through the royal Nasrid Palaces and to see medieval fortresses including the Alcazaba, and along the way you'll learn the incredible history of this stunning, unique slice of European history.

In 1492, as Columbus was setting foot in North America, the Castilian Queen Isabella was waging the final stages of her war against Spain's Muslim rulers, the Moors, who had ruled for centuries from the walls of the Alhambra. After seeing the palaces and fortresses, your guide will show you the beautiful Generalife gardens where royalty spent their summers relaxing.

Alhambra, Generalife, and Nasrid Palaces Tour Description

Your 3-hour tour includes:

  • Skip-the-line entry to the Alhambra and Generalife complex

  • Guided Alhambra tour with fortresses and Nasrid Palaces

  • Guided tour of the Generalife gardens

  • Super-knowledgeable, English-speaking local guide

  • Maximum group size of 30

    * Alhambra tickets are non-refundable. In case of cancellation the amount corresponding to the tickets will not be refunded in any case 

Meet Your Guide near the Alhambra entrance

Your day begins at the entrance to the Alhambra where Muslim rulers began building fortifications as far back as the 8th Century AD. See the walls of the palatial complex as your friendly guide leads you inside, with skip-the-line tickets to avoid and waiting around.

Palace of the Lions and Palace Of The Comares

Over centuries, the Alhambra developed into the network of palaces and defensive structures we see today. Your guide will describe how, in the 13th century, the Nasrid dynasty was able to finally take control over competing factions leading to the rapid expansion of the area with opulence and grandeur.

Only two of the six palaces that stood in 1492 still survive in the Alhambra today. In the Palace of the Lions, your guide will first describe the emblematic statue of big cats centered in the palace's ornate courtyard. Learn why scholars to this day debate whether this palace was a learning center, mosque, or throne to victory.

Next, you'll explore the Palace of the Comares. Renovated by Muhammad V in the 14th century, Comares acted as the grand throne room for the Sultans. Entering from another one of the Alhambra's great courtyards, learn why you don't see an elaborate façade on this particular palace. Inside, see how the palace's designs represent the growing influence from Sufism and mysticism in the Sultan's court during the last century of their rule in Spain.

It's a stunning glimpse into the architecture and opulence that shaped the Alhambra and spread its influence across Andalusia and beyond.

Medieval Fortresses of the Alhambra

From the palaces, your guide will lead you to the defensive structures used to protect the city from invaders. At the Alcazaba, discover the oldest surviving structure atop Sabika Hill. Built in either the 9th or 10th century, your guide will tell impressive stories of this over 1,000 year old watch tower.

Although beautiful and ornate in so many ways, this part of the tour will remind you of the complex's primary purpose as a place of power and the number one target for invading armies.

Lavish Generalife Gardens

Down the road from the Nasrid Palaces, you'll find the majestic Generalife Gardens. Based in part on the Koranic depictions of heaven, the lush gardens and flowing fountains were a picturesque summer retreat for the Sultan and his family. Also serving as an orchard, the gardens were an oasis of tranquility among the palaces and fortresses of the Alhambra.

Though much of the structure caught fire in 1958 and had to be rebuilt, the most stunning aspect of the Generalife still stands. You can see the beautiful Water Staircase up close. The 4-story set of stairs with a flowing stream creates a sense of peace among the gardens that feels serene after hearing how this became a quiet refuge.

After exploring the gardens, your guide will wave goodbye and you can explore more independently or head down to the city to enjoy the gentle charms of Granada.

What you get with this tour
Passionate English-speaking guide
Alhambra and Generalife
Nasrid Palaces
Generalife gardens
Palace of Charles V
Group size of 30 people
Food and beverages
Hotel pick up and drop off
Guide gratuities
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See what people are saying

25 total reviews

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5.0/5 (based on 25 reviews)
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Granada’s crown jewel, perfectly explored
20 March 2025
R
Reviewed by
Richard Martínez

The Alhambra is the heart of Granada, and this tour does it justice. Every step, from the regal halls of the Nasrid Palaces to the tranquil fountains of the Generalife, felt like peeling back layers of history. Seeing it with a guide gave so much depth to the experience—this is how the Alhambra should be seen.

A seamless and captivating visit
20 March 2025
S
Reviewed by
Sharon Evans

I’ve taken plenty of guided tours before, but few have been as smooth and engaging as this one. Our guide had a perfect balance of knowledge and storytelling, keeping us enthralled from start to finish. The logistics were effortless, allowing us to focus on the beauty and history around us rather than worrying about queues or directions.

Walking through centuries of history
20 March 2025
S
Reviewed by
Sarah Young

The moment we stepped inside, it felt like we had traveled back in time. From the imposing fortress walls to the intricate details of the palaces, every corner of the Alhambra had a story to tell. The Generalife gardens were a peaceful retreat, and the views from the Alcazaba were breathtaking. This tour made sure we didn’t just visit—we truly experienced it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please wear comfortable shoes, and we recommend a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen in summer. Please bring your original ID with you

What to bring?

Please wear comfortable shoes, and we recommend a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen in summer. Please bring your original ID with you

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Granada.

Can I stay at the Alhambra after the tour?

Yes, you're welcome to stay in the Alhambra complex after your tour.

Is this tour refundable?

No. Tickets to the Alhambra are reserved with your name, so this tour can't be refunded.

Start From: $47.19

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Reserve Now $47.19 / per person
$47.19 / per person
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