Nasrid Palaces
Opulent Moorish courtyards, reception halls & royal quarters at the heart of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Nasrid Palaces
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Opulent Moorish courtyards, reception halls & royal quarters at the heart of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"Visiting the Nasrid Palaces was an unforgettable highlight of my trip to Granada!"
🎯 Book Tickets Months Ahead
Nasrid Palaces tickets sell out FAST! Book online at least 3 months in advance to avoid disappointment.
🛂 Bring Your Passport!
You MUST bring the same passport used for booking. No passport, no entry to the Nasrid Palaces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Courtyard of the Lions
Nasrid Palaces
Iconic courtyard with a central fountain supported by twelve lions, a masterpiece of Islamic art.
Hall of the Ambassadors
Nasrid Palaces
The grand throne room, featuring an intricately decorated dome and stunning geometric patterns.
Intricate Stucco Work
Nasrid Palaces
Marvel at the delicate, lace-like stucco carvings adorning walls and ceilings, showcasing incredible craftsmanship.
Generalife Gardens
Adjacent to Nasrid Palaces
Serene gardens with water features, lush greenery, and beautiful views of the Alhambra complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Nasrid Palaces Tickets WAY in Advance
Passport & Comfortable Shoes are Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Months Ahead
Nasrid Palaces tickets sell out FAST! Book online at least 3 months in advance to avoid disappointment.
🛂 Bring Your Passport!
You MUST bring the same passport used for booking. No passport, no entry to the Nasrid Palaces.
:athletic_shoe: Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and some stairs. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring!
🗣️ Hire a Guide
A guide enhances the experience by explaining the history and intricate details. Highly recommended!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Months Ahead
Nasrid Palaces tickets sell out FAST! Book online at least 3 months in advance to avoid disappointment.
🛂 Bring Your Passport!
You MUST bring the same passport used for booking. No passport, no entry to the Nasrid Palaces.
:athletic_shoe: Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and some stairs. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring!
🗣️ Hire a Guide
A guide enhances the experience by explaining the history and intricate details. Highly recommended!
⏰ Arrive for Your Time Slot
Be at the entrance for your designated time slot. Latecomers may not be admitted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty and intricate artistry of the Nasrid Palaces, calling it a highlight of their trip to Granada. The historical significance and the feeling of stepping back in time are frequently praised. However, the extreme difficulty in securing tickets and the strict entry times can lead to frustration for some.
"So so lovely. Visited on a lovely hot day. We bought tickets in advance. Make sure you get there for the time stated on your ticket. You may have to wait in a queue but if your not in the queue for your time you may not get in. MAKE SURE YOU TAKE YOUR PASSPORT! No entry without. Would highly recommend you pay for a guide to explain what your looking at. It's lovely, but will mean more with an explanation. It's amazing to see the restoration that has taken place on the site. There a board that shows you what it looked like in the 1920's. Not and expensive visit. A day well spent."
Paulina
"without question, the city’s crown jewel — a Moorish palace and fortress with grand archways, delicate mosaics, and views that make you stop mid-step. Give yourself at least 3–4 hours to explore it properly. Wear your comfiest shoes, because you’ll be doing plenty of walking, plus a few stair climbs that are totally worth it for the views.
Make sure to.biy tickets ahead of time."
reflectandconnectlives
"Visiting the Nasrid Palaces was an unforgettable highlight of my trip to Granada! 🌍 The moment I stepped inside, it felt like traveling back in time to the splendor of Moorish Spain. Every wall, arch, and ceiling is a masterpiece — with intricate carvings, geometric patterns, and breathtaking details that left me in awe at every turn.
Walking through the Palacios Nazaríes, I was especially captivated by the Courtyard of the Lions and the peaceful Hall of the Ambassadors. The play of light and shadows throughout the palace makes it feel magical, especially in the early morning when it’s quieter.
It’s a place where history comes alive — you can almost imagine the life of the sultans and the stories these walls have witnessed. My only tip is to book your tickets well in advance and take your time exploring. This is not just a palace; it’s a journey into centuries of art, culture, and craftsmanship. 🕌✨"
G D (Savor the Journey)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nasrid Palaces are part of the larger Alhambra complex in Granada, Spain. You can reach the Alhambra by bus (lines C30 or C32 from the city center), taxi, or a pleasant walk uphill. Once inside the Alhambra, follow the signs for the Nasrid Palaces.
It's a scenic but uphill walk from the city center to the Alhambra, taking about 20-30 minutes. Comfortable shoes are a must!
Taking the C30 or C32 bus is a convenient option to reach the Alhambra entrance, especially if you have mobility concerns or want to save energy for exploring the palaces.
Driving directly to the Nasrid Palaces is not possible as they are within the pedestrianized Alhambra complex. There is a paid parking lot near the main entrance of the Alhambra.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Granada and can take you directly to the Alhambra entrance, which is convenient for accessing the Nasrid Palaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your Alhambra tickets, which include access to the Nasrid Palaces, at least three months in advance, as they sell out very quickly.
Unfortunately, you cannot enter the Nasrid Palaces without a pre-booked ticket that specifically includes access to them. Many tickets sell out months ahead.
Yes, you absolutely must bring the same passport that you used to book your tickets. Entry will be denied without it.
General admission tickets for the Alhambra, which include the Nasrid Palaces, typically cost around 14-19 euros, but prices can vary. Booking online in advance is essential.
It is extremely unlikely to get tickets for the Nasrid Palaces on the day of your visit, as they are the most popular part of the Alhambra and sell out months in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While the Nasrid Palaces themselves might take about an hour to explore thoroughly, plan for at least 3-4 hours for the entire Alhambra complex, including the palaces, Alcazaba, and Generalife gardens.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history and intricate details of the Nasrid Palaces. Many visitors find it significantly enhances their experience.
The opening hours for the Alhambra, including the Nasrid Palaces, vary by season. Generally, they open around 8:30 am and close between 6 pm and 8 pm. Always check the official website for current hours.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Nasrid Palaces, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
The Alhambra complex, including the Nasrid Palaces, has many stairs and uneven surfaces, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some areas may be inaccessible.
📸 📸 Photography
The Courtyard of the Lions, the Hall of the Ambassadors, and any of the intricately decorated courtyards offer stunning photo opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow is particularly photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Nasrid Palaces, but it's important to be respectful of other visitors and avoid flash photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. The golden hour can be magical.
Drones are strictly prohibited within the Alhambra complex, including the Nasrid Palaces, to preserve the historical site and ensure visitor safety.
A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens (e.g., a wide-angle to a moderate telephoto) will be beneficial for capturing both the grand architecture and intricate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Book tickets well in advance, as they are essential. Consider a guided tour that is engaging for children, or prepare your own stories about the palace. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the extensive walking. The Generalife Gardens offer more space for children to move around and explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
The key to budget-friendly travel here is advance booking to secure tickets at face value and avoid costly third-party resellers. To save money on-site, consider bringing your own water and snacks, as prices within the Alhambra can be higher. Walking from the city center instead of taking a bus or taxi also cuts down on costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Nasrid Palaces
+1The design emphasizes harmony between architecture, water, and nature, creating an atmosphere of paradise on earth. The intricate details, from the delicate stucco work to the geometric tile mosaics, reflect a sophisticated understanding of aesthetics and engineering. Each courtyard and hall tells a story of power, culture, and daily life during a pivotal period in Spanish history.
+2Exploring the Nasrid Palaces offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage left by the Moors. The preservation efforts have been remarkable, allowing visitors to witness the grandeur and artistry that have endured for centuries. It's a journey back in time, immersing you in the splendor of a bygone era.
Navigating Your Visit: Tickets and Timing
Your ticket will specify an entry time for the Nasrid Palaces. Arriving precisely at this time is crucial; latecomers risk being denied entry. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes as the Alhambra complex is extensive and involves considerable walking, including stairs.
Consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the interplay of light and shadow on the intricate architecture. Night tours offer a different, often more intimate, experience, though they may be more rushed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit