About this experience
"Ruby in the Crown of Granada": this is the beautiful title awarded to Alhambra - the brightest masterpiece of Arab art in Western Europe. You will stroll through this magnificent complex with its numerous fountains and columns, admire the rich interiors and panoramas, and also explore the emerald gardens of Generalife. And all this comes with stories about the history, architecture, and inhabitants of the Alhambra palaces.
What to Expect
Emerald Gardens and Fountains
Preserved since the 18th century, the Generalife gardens are a masterpiece of gardening art and a recreated image of paradise from the Quran. You will walk along skillfully trimmed trees in the Lower Gardens and visit the Palacio de Generalife. Passing through the picturesque Patio of the Irrigation Canal, you will reach the Romantic Mirador lookout - from here you can enjoy magnificent views of the Alhambra. At the end of the Generalife walk, you will find a blooming Oleander Alley and a medieval Medina.
Alhambra - Magnificent Red Castle
You will learn how the Nasrid emirs dynasty created their earthly paradise, and walk through three monumental architectural ensembles: Mexuar, Comares, and the Lions Palace. In each of them, you will admire luxurious interiors with stucco, tiles, Arabic lacework, marble columns, and capitals. You will visit the "Hall of the Two Sisters" with a magnificent carved wooden ceiling, the Golden Room courtyard, the Lion Courtyard, and other palace corners - where I will tell you about the history and architectural features of each.
Alcazaba Fortress and Charles V Palace
On the tour, you will see the Alhambra citadel - Alcazaba, learn about its towers, and climb one of them to admire the entire complex and the views of Granada. In addition, you will visit the Charles V Palace - built in the Renaissance style, it sharply contrasts with the Moorish constructions.
Organizational Details
- Important: it is necessary to buy entrance tickets to the Alhambra online in advance. They are paid separately (about 20 €/person; no guide ticket needed).
- The floor in the Alhambra is partially paved with cobblestones, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
- Please note: on weekends and public holidays, the cost of the tour is 196€.
