Alhambra and Generalife skip-the-line private tour
The Alhambra, a shining relic of Spain’s Moorish roots, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse of Islamic art, history and architecture. Get ready to discover the best parts of the UNESCO-sited palace and fortress on this private tour. Josef, one of our local guides, says, ‘Moorish design is everpresent despite a turbulent history – from the Nasrid Dynasty to Christian Reconquest, abandonment and restoration. You’ll see symmetrical patterns, light and shadow effects and central courtyards representing peaceful, inward-looking life.’
Kick off the tour at the Nasrid Palaces, originally built for Spanish Muslim rulers. Marvel at intricate tilework, flowing water features and Arabic-inscribed arches. ‘The Palace is like stepping into a poetry book. See the multiple uses of the Arabic words ‘happiness’ and ‘blessing’ which symbolise its philosophy and good wishes for the monarchs’, says guide Josef. At the Patio de los Leones, you’ll be able to snap photos of the iconic water fountain with its 12 white marble lions.
Next up, feel what inspired the famed American author in the Washington Irving rooms and discover the Generalife – the summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid rulers. Walk around the lush greenery before following your guide to the Alcazaba. This is the Alhambra’s oldest part and former military fortress. Climb to the highest point of the Torre de la Vela watchtower for breathtaking views of Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Discover the Alhambra UNESCO site to leaf through Spain’s multi-layered history
- Explore the Moorish architecture of the Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife summer palace
- Admire breathtaking views from the oldest and highest part of the complex at the Alcazaba
- Learn about the Christian Reconquest at the Palace of Charles V and see the Washington Irving rooms
- Follow a local expert guide with unrivalled knowledge of the Alhambra on this customisable private tour
- Private tour led by an expert local guide
- Skip-the-line tickets for the Alhambra (tickets include entrance to all areas of the Alhambra open to the public: Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba Fortress, Generalife, the Palace of Charles V and more)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- The Patronage of Alhambra and Generalife requires you to indicate each visitor's full name during booking. This is the name that appears on your ID (passport) which you'll need to bring on the day of your tour. If the full name of each participant is not entered correctly at the time of booking, admission to the Alhambra will not be guaranteed. If the full name of a participant does not appear on your voucher, please send an email to [email protected] with the full name of the participant at least 4 days before the date chosen for your visit. Otherwise, entry to the Alhambra is not be guaranteed
- Comfortable footwear is recommended
- This is a private tour for a group up to 10 guests. Tell the guide what you want and let them focus on your interests
Meet your guide at the ticket office of the Alhambra (main entrance) beside the big Alhambra map.
- Discover the Alhambra UNESCO site to leaf through Spain’s multi-layered history
- Explore the Moorish architecture of the Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife summer palace
- Admire breathtaking views from the oldest and highest part of the complex at the Alcazaba
- Learn about the Christian Reconquest at the Palace of Charles V and see the Washington Irving rooms
- Follow a local expert guide with unrivalled knowledge of the Alhambra on this customisable private tour
- Private tour led by an expert local guide
- Skip-the-line tickets for the Alhambra (tickets include entrance to all areas of the Alhambra open to the public: Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba Fortress, Generalife, the Palace of Charles V and more)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
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