Looking for a private tour of the Alhambra in Granada? The Alhambra is not just a fortress with palaces—it was a true city within a city, once home to 1,000–2,000 inhabitants. It stands as a masterpiece of Islamic military architecture, a symbol of royal power, and a marvel of environmental design with its ingenious water features and lush gardens. Walking through its halls and courtyards feels like stepping back in time. With our private tour, you’ll experience it all in a more personal way—without the crowds, at your own pace, guided by our official experts.
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What Does an Alhambra Private Tour Include?
With a private tour of the Alhambra, our official guides share stories and details you won’t find in the guidebooks. You set the pace, stop where you like, and really connect with the place. So, what’s included?
- Entry to the Alhambra (tickets included)
- Stroll through the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife Gardens, the Palace of Carlos V and the Alcazaba
- 2.5 h itinerary
- Official guide
- Preferential access
- Children under 3 years old are exempt from payment
What’s Not Included?
Transportation to/from your hotel is not part of the tour. To reach the Alhambra, you can take a taxi, use public transport, or enjoy a short walk if you’re staying nearby.
The Tour Experience: From Start to Finish
The Alhambra is the finest testament to the artistic, cultural, and scientific achievements of the Al-Andalus kingdom in its final years before decline. Explore the Alhambra and the Generalife with a guide dedicated exclusively to you and your companions. You can choose the start time (subject to ticket availability) as well as the language of the visit.
Are you ready to see everything this tour has to offer? Here’s what you’ll experience along the way:
First, we meet at the Alhambra ticket office, the starting point for our private tour. From here, your guide will lead you through the entrance.
The Nasrid Palaces
Our first stop is in the Nasrid Palaces, the main highlight of the Alhambra. Here, we’ll explore three remarkable buildings that showcase the palace’s rich history and stunning architecture:
- Our tour begins with the Mexuar, the oldest section of the Nasrid Palaces. This hall was where ministers gathered and justice was administered, giving a glimpse into the political and administrative life of the sultans. Its architecture, though simpler than the later palaces, already shows the intricate attention to detail that defines the Alhambra.
- Next, we visit the Palace of Comares, the king’s official residence. Here, you’ll see the elegant Court of the Myrtles and the famous Hall of Ambassadors. The hall’s ornate ceilings, detailed stucco work, and rich decoration make it one of the most impressive rooms in the Alhambra.
- Finally, the Palace of the Lions, centered around its iconic courtyard and fountain, is a masterpiece of Nasrid art. The twelve marble lions that support the fountain, intricate muqarnas ceilings, and delicate arabesques create a space that feels both grand and intimate, revealing the height of Moorish craftsmanship and the sophistication of palace life.
The Generalife
After exploring the Nasrid Palaces, we head to the Generalife.The tour takes you through its most iconic spaces: the Sultana’s Garden, a serene courtyard filled with fragrant flowers and elegant cypress trees; the Water-Garden Courtyard, where a long reflecting pool runs through the center, flanked by fountains and pavilions; and the terraced gardens that offer stunning views over the Alhambra and the city below.
The Palace of Charles V
We then visit the Palace of Charles V, a striking Renaissance building set within the Alhambra complex. Built in the 16th century by Emperor Charles V, it stands out with its grand circular courtyard and elegant proportions, representing a bold contrast to the Nasrid palaces while showcasing the architectural shift of the era.
The Alcazaba
Finally, we visit the Alcazaba, the oldest part of the Alhambra and its original fortress. Explore Armas Square, the Adarves Garden, and the Vela Tower, while enjoying panoramic views of Granada that reveal why this strategic citadel was so important throughout history.
If you want to discover all these iconic monuments, feel free to contact us or check out our Alhambra private tour to guide you through the Alhambra’s most remarkable corners, stories, and views with our licensed guides who bring history to life just for you.
Best Time to Visit the Alhambra
Planning the right time for your Alhambra visit can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to help you choose:
- Early morning: Explore the palaces and gardens in peace, with the gentle morning light highlighting every detail.
- Late afternoon (spring & autumn): The warm sunlight casts a beautiful glow over the architecture and the city below.
- High season (late spring–early autumn): Expect larger crowds, so booking in advance is essential to secure your private tour.
- Winter: Peaceful and quiet, ideal for exploring at your own pace, though the Generalife gardens may be less colorful.
However, the best time to visit really depends on you. We’ll be here any time of year to ensure you make the most of your private tour experience.
Tips for Visiting the Alhambra
Simple tips to help you enjoy the Alhambra and make the most of your private tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The complex is extensive, with uneven floors and several stairs.
- Bring water and sunscreen: The sun can be particularly strong in spring and summer.
- Take your time: A private tour is even better when you take your time to soak in the details, take photos, and enjoy the gardens.
- Check opening hours:
The Alhambra is open every day of the year except December 25th and January 1st. Its opening hours vary depending on the season:
- Daytime visits:
- April 1st – October 14th: 08:30 to 20:00
- October 15th – March 31st: 08:30 to 18:00
- Evening visits:
- April 1st – October 14th: Tuesday to Saturday, 22:00 to 23:30
- October 15th – March 31st: Friday and Saturday, 20:00 to 21:30
Please note that the last entry to the Nasrid Palaces is one hour before closing time. It’s advisable to check the official website for any updates or changes to the schedule.
- Book in advance: The Alhambra is one of the most visited monuments in Spain, and tickets—especially for the Nasrid Palaces—sell out quickly. Reserving early ensures you secure your spot and enjoy a stress-free visit.
- Get an Official Guide: A licensed guide specialising in the Alhambra will bring its history to life. This option is highly recommended to make the most of your visit.
Who Is a Private Alhambra Granada Tour For?
A private tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the Alhambra in a more personal and relaxed way. Whether you’re visiting Granada for the first time, traveling with family, on a company incentive, or simply love history and architecture, a private tour lets you explore at your own pace, focus on what interests you most, and enjoy the insights of a licensed guide — without the crowds.
At Andalusia Travel Tour, this option gives you greater freedom and flexibility. If you want to explore at your own pace, or are travelling with children, a private service is the ideal choice. Everyone, including kids, needs a valid ticket to enter the Alhambra. Children under 3 years old are free, while tickets for children aged 3 to 11 should be booked in advance.
Explore our B2B Section to know more about the services we offer, or contact us by clicking here.
Quality of Our Private Alhambra Granada Tour
At Andalusia Travel Tour, the quality of our Private Alhambra Granada Tour is truly outstanding. From the moment you book, our team ensures every detail is carefully planned, offering a unique and memorable experience for our clients. We are a client-focused company, and the feedback we receive helps us continually refine and improve our services.
Our licensed guides are experts in the Alhambra’s history, art, and architecture, providing insights and context that go far beyond a standard tour. With a private tour, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, linger where you like, and fully immerse yourself in this remarkable site.
We combine international standards with deep local knowledge, ensuring that every aspect—from ticketing to timing, and from accessibility for families to small comfort details—is handled efficiently and professionally. Our clients consistently highlight our attentive service, fast responses within 24 hours, and the high level of care that makes each visit truly special. Choosing Andalusia Travel Tour means not just visiting the Alhambra, but experiencing it in a way that is immersive, stress-free, and entirely tailored to your interests and expectations.
How to Book Your Private Alhambra Tour in Granada?
Many companies offer private tours of the Alhambra, but the quality and experience can vary widely. To make sure you get the most out of your visit, it’s worth contacting agencies directly, asking detailed questions about the itinerary, and comparing what each option includes. Given the high demand, especially during peak tourist seasons, booking in advance is strongly recommended to secure your preferred date and time. A well-planned reservation ensures you can enjoy the tour at a relaxed pace, with a licensed guide and all the personal attention that a private experience offers.
Don’t forget to secure your booking with us by contacting our team directly or visiting our website, and ensure your private Alhambra experience is everything you’ve imagined.
Conclusion
A visit to the Alhambra is a must, but a private tour gives you the chance to experience it in a completely different way. To make the most of your visit:
- Choose the type of tour that fits you best, private or group.
- Book early to ensure your preferred date and guide.
- Check what each provider offers so you know exactly what’s included.
A private tour lets you explore at your own pace, pause where you like, and discover the history behind each corner. There’s no better way to truly connect with the Alhambra than with a dedicated guide showing you around.
For more details, take a look at our private tours of the Alhambra and feel free to explore the other tours we offer in Granada.
