La Alhambra & Palacio de Generalife

Oh, quiero volver. Granada is a wonderful place to go, especially if you plan to do a southern Spain tour. The city can be seen within two days, or around 4 to 5 if you want to relax. Granada isn’t that big and I found that out the first day I was there. Many people have the Alhambra and Moorish Market down, as both are major tourist spots. The Alhambra is one of the most visited places in Spain; no wonder considering how much history and artifacts it holds.

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It’s recommended that you reserve a ticket online or ahead of time so that it guarantees you a time to go in as well as beating the crowds. The official website says to book at least a month before and I remember I booked the second to last ticket for the end of November. Autumn is usually shoulder season, but there were still many people who had already reserved. I wanted to attend the ‘Generalife at Night’ (castle visit at night!) and they were all sold out for the next two months. It’s amazing and crazy at the same time!

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My ticket was for 9am and I had stood in line for the 8:30am entrance and I couldn’t get in! Apparently, you had to wait for your time slot which is basically a really long line with no signs. Good thing the sun was rising and I got some amazing shots! The main ticket gives entrance to several exhibits/castles and you can easily spend a whole day there. I had reserved my last full day in Granada because I wanted to have it fresh in my mind when I left.

The Alhambra has exquisite design and architecture that’s mirrored in other palaces around the area (Royal Alcazar de Seville, Alcazaba de Malaga). They show the enduring history of Moorish influence. I’m not one to give a history lesson, but I can say that walking through the palace halls is an unimaginable way to learn about the past. There’s also guided tours and audio tours available.

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The palace has multiple sections, but the one I want to point out today is the Generalife Palace. This is the farthest point from the the main Alhambra complex and it takes you around the castle, past lush gardens, to a beautiful villa that has a dark past. In later research, it was named after the people who were forced to build the structure and confined there. It was definitely interesting to learn and read more about.

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On the other hand, Generalife is any Disney princesses’ dream. Located on a hill overlooking the city, surrounded by nature and fragrant flowers, this building has long fountains and arching water fountains. There are many balconies/outlook points to take pictures and just take in the view. The main focus of the building would definitely be the long fountains at the beginning and end of the walk.

It is a marvelous view, isn’t it?

The paths are very easily identifiable and well walked so you’ll never get lost. I would recommend getting there either early or enough time before closure to beat the crowds as well as the sun (especially in the summer). Also, golden hour works well with the landscape!

It was quite chilly in November but not unbearable. I’d say around 40-50F/4-10C when I was there. Remember to bring suitable shoes for the day because there’s lots of walking! The palace is also handicap accessible and very accommodating. If your a cat lover, be on the lookout for some of the furry residents who wander around! I spotted maybe around 3-4 cats within the first few hours I was there.

For the complete address: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain

entering through the Justice Gate: Calle Real de la Alhambra, 18, 18009 Granada, Spain

Hope this post was helpful or a good reminiscing for others especially with what’s going on now. If you’ve been or are planning to go, comment below! I’d love to hear details!