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

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

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.