Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about the Alhambra
What is the Alhambra?
The Alhambra is a palatial city located in Granada, Spain. It was constructed in different stages between the 13th and 15th centuries by the kings of the Nasrid dynasty of the Emirate of Granada.
What are the opening hours of the Alhambra?
The opening hours of the Alhambra vary depending on the time of year. Generally, the complex opens from 8.30 am to 8.00 pm. Please check the official website for specific hours.
What should I wear to visit the Alhambra?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be walking outside and inside the complex. It is advisable to wear a hat in spring and summer and warm clothes in winter.
Why should I get tickets to the Alhambra in advance?
The Alhambra offers only a limited number of tickets daily, and they tend to sell out quickly.
Remember: a visit to the Alhambra is an experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this opportunity, secure your entry by making your reservation well in advance, plan ahead and reserve your spot as soon as possible. Make unforgettable memories!
Can I visit the Alhambra without a guide?
How long does a visit to the Alhambra take?
A visit to the Alhambra can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on how much of the complex you want to see. Plan ahead and allow plenty of time to explore.
Can I take photos inside the Alhambra?
Yes, you can take photos inside the Alhambra, but be respectful of other visitors and don’t use flash photography.
Are there restaurants or cafes inside the Alhambra?
For reasons of historical preservation, eating is not permitted during the tour of the Alhambra, only in certain areas. Inside the premises you can find vending machines for food and beverages which are located at the access pavilion or at the service pavilion next to the Puerta del Vino. However, there are several lovely restaurants around the Alhambra where you can enjoy a meal or have a drink.
Can I visit the Alhambra at night?
Yes, there are night visits available for certain areas of the Alhambra, as the Nasrid Palaces. We’d recommend you to get your tickets as soon as possible, as they are usually sold out weeks in advance.
What are the Nasrid Palaces?
The Nasrid Palaces are a stunning set of palaces located within the Alhambra complex in Granada, built by the Nasrid dynasty during the 13th and 14th centuries. They are a must-see, showcasing intricate Islamic architecture and design, and featuring three main palaces: the Mexuar, the Comares Palace, and the Palace of the Lions. Due to their popularity, it’s important to book tickets weeks in advance.
Can I walk to the Alhambra?
Yes, of course. The walk from Plaza Nueva up to The Alhambra is stunningly beautiful, but bear in mind it is steep in parts, and it may take around 20 minutes from the city center.
Please do not take the Gate of Justice entrance, continue walking up through the Paseo del Generalife until you reach the Alhambra Access Pavilion.
For those who do not wish to walk, we recommend using Granada’s excellent public transport, rather than using the car.
If you are in the city center, you may also take a taxi to get to the Alhambra. The closest taxi stop is the one at Plaza Nueva. If you take a taxi, it will stop by La Mimbre Restaurant, just next to the Alhambra Access Pavilion.
Can I park in the Alhambra?
There is a parking space for around 500 cars under surveillance for 24 hours. There are 4 areas, one of them for buses and vans. The price is 2.82 euros per hour. You can find difficulties to find a place to park.
I am visiting the Alhambra with children; do they need a ticket?
It is mandatory to carry a ticket of the Alhambra while in the inside, even children. However, minors under 3 years old do not have to pay, you can ask for their ticket at the Alhambra ticket office once you get there.
For children aged 3 to 11 years old, tickets must be booked in advance when getting tickets for adults.
Can I bring a stroller?
We are always delighted to have children on our tours, but unfortunately, strollers are not allowed in the palaces. Besides, the cobbles and slopes make it very difficult to push around, thus it is best to use baby carriers. The Patronato of the Alhambra offers a surveillance service for strollers at the Puerta del Vino locker and baby carrier backpacks loans (up to a maximum of 12 kg.).
Wheelchairs in the Alhambra and reduced mobility
Some areas, such as Generalife and the Palaces are partially adapted for people with reduced mobility or wheelchairs. However, other areas, such as the Alcazaba are not, as they have many steps, as well as cobbled floors.
If necessary, El Patronato de La Alhambra and Generalife offer a wheelchair loan service, according to availability, which can be picked up at the access pavilion.
Can I stay at the Alhambra after my tour?
You can access every place inside the Alhambra (Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces, Partal and Generalife) just once. However, you may stay in the free access areas as long as you want.
Are Alhambra tickets included in private tours?
If you buy your private guided visit to the Alhambra & Generalife, tickets can be included on request and are subject to availability and timed-entry rules.
Can you guarantee Alhambra tickets?
No—tickets depend on official release/availability, but we handle the process and advise best windows.
How far in advance should I book my Alhambra private tour?
Ideally 6–12 weeks for high season (april to june and september to november); off-peak can be closer to date.
Is the Nasrid Palaces entry included in my guided visit of the Alhambra?
Only if explicitly booked with timed entry; it’s the most limited ticket.
Does my guided visit of the Alhambra include the Generalife gardens?
Yes—Generalife gardens are included in our private Alhambra tours. Your route covers the Generalife (gardens, patios and summer palace) along with the core Alhambra areas, and we pace it so you have time for photos and short breaks.
Best time to visit the Alhambra?
Spring and fall; weekdays with early or late entries work best.
Morning vs afternoon entry—what’s better?
Mornings are cooler and steadier; late afternoon has softer light and fewer crowds.
Can I see the Alhambra and city center in one day?
Yes with a paced plan: Alhambra entry + compact Old Town route
Can you coordinate after-hours Alhambra visits?
After-hours access is limited and regulated; Ask for availability
Frequently asked questions about us and our guided tours
Which is the meeting point for the tours?
Meeting points is usually highlighted in each tour description and, in addition, on the confirmation voucher you receive once the reservation is made. If you have doubts once in destiny, you may contact your guide.
Do I need to print the confirmation voucher?
It is not necessary to print the voucher, you may just show it to us on your mobile phone.
Can tours be bilingual?
Our tours are not bilingual. You will have the tour in the language you selected during the booking process.
Is it possible to change the tour date?
It will depend on the cancellation and modification policy of each guided tour. If possible, it will also depend on availability.
Is it possible to cancel a reservation? Which is cancellation policy?
Each tour description has its own section informing on cancellation policy, please check it carefully before booking.
How can I obtain a refund if I cancel a reservation?
Your money will be refunded through the same payment method you originally used.
What happens in case of rain or bad weather?
Every tour will take place normally, even in bad weather conditions. In case of extreme bad conditions and if a visit should be cancelled, we will provide an alternative date or cancellation and reimbursement.
Can you tailor routes for mobility needs?
Yes. We adapt pacing, gradients, rest stops, and access points to your requirements.
Can we combine our tour with a flamenco experience?
Absolutely—add a cave show to your guided tour or short walk before the flamenco performance.
Can you tailor your tours to our interests?
Yes—share your priorities (history, photography, food, faith) and we’ll shape your tailored route.
Can you split large groups simultaneously?
Yes—parallel guides and staggered entries keep timing tight.
What credentials do your guides hold?
Licensed, English-speaking guides accredited under Andalusian regulations.
Is hotel pick-up available?
Yes—when requested, we can coordinate meeting points at hotel or nearby access streets.
Do tours in Granada include tickets?
They can; your quote will specify inclusions and time slots.
Do you work with international travel advisors?
Yes. We offer net rates, 24-hour proposals, and a single point of contact.
Are entrance tickets included in your tours?
Tickets can be bundled or left à la carte—your choice—subject to site availability.
How long is the drive each way in your day trips?
Typical day trips run 1.5–3 hours each way depending on destination and traffic.
Can we include a short hike in the day trips?
Yes. We can add easy scenic walks—tell us distance and footwear preferences.
Can we add stops in the day trips?
Possible with advance notice; tasting times depend on provider schedules.
Is there free time for lunch/photos in the full day trips?
Yes. We build in breaks for meals and photography by default.
What’s the maximum group size for group tours?
We follow site regulations; typically 20–30 per guide with headsets where required. Larger groups are split with parallel guides.
Typical response time for proposals?
Within 24 hours on business days (often same day for standard requests).
What age is this best for your students tours?
Most student routes fit ages 12 to 18; we adapt content for younger groups.
Are headsets/tickets included in your tours?
Available on request; some sites require headsets for larger groups.
How often is the blog updated?
We update seasonally and around major ticket/calendar changes.
Can I request a topic for your blog?
Yes—send your question and we’ll consider it for an upcoming article.
Frequently asked questions about Granada
What is the best time of the year to visit Granada?
The best time to visit Granada depends on the interests of each traveler. In general, Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October) are the most pleasant times to tour the city, as the weather is mild and temperatures are pleasant.
However, if you want to ski or enjoy winter sports, winter is the ideal time, especially between December and March, when snow covers the Sierra Nevada mountains and sports such as skiing and snowboarding can be practiced.
Summer is a popular time to visit Granada, as this is when some of the city’s most important festivals are celebrated, such as the Feria de Granada and the festivals of the Albaicín and Sacromonte neighborhoods. During this time, the city is full of life and color, with a wide range of cultural activities, concerts and outdoor shows.
How many days are necessary to visit Granada?
It is recommended to spend at least two or three days in Granada in order to visit the most important tourist sites, enjoy its gastronomy and nightlife, and tour the Albaicín and Sacromonte neighborhoods, as well as visit the Alhambra
What foods can I try in Granada?
In Granada you can taste typical dishes such as fried fish, Andalusian gazpacho or Sacromonte omelette. Discover the best places to eat tapas in Granada!
How do I get to Granada?
Granada has its own airport, the Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport, which is located about 17 km west of the city. It can also be reached by train from several cities in Spain, and by bus from almost anywhere in the country. We encourage you to learn more about Granada before making your trip.
Are there any Day Trips I can take from Granada?
What are the highlights to see in Granada?
Granada is a city full of history and culture, so there are many attractions to see. The Alhambra is the most popular attraction in Granada, but it is also recommended to visit the Albaicin and Sacromonte neighborhoods, the Cathedral, the Monastery of San Jeronimo and the Science Park, among many other places. In addition, Granada is known for its gastronomy, and its wide variety of tapas.
Is Granada safe for families?
Generally yes; it’s walkable and well-patrolled. Standard city awareness applies.
Is summer too hot for sightseeing?
Midday can be hot—plan early/late slots and indoor breaks.
Dress code or coverage requirements in religious monuments?
Respectful attire recommended; shoulders/backs covered inside places of worship.
Discover the wonders of Granada and the Alhambra with our guided tours, and let us be your window to unforgettable experiences. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us – we’re just a call or message away. Contact us today via phone or Whatsapp at +34-607 691 676, or send an email to hellocicerone@gmail.com We’re excited to assist you!