The Alhambra

The Alhambra was one of the main highlights of my trip and it was so awesome that i had to dedicate an entry to it. It consists of palaces and gardens, perched on two hills, so magnificently put together that it is visually stunning from any angle. It was granted the well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition way back in 1984.

Since the Wikipedia entry gives you all the details you might be interested to know about the Alhambra, I will just let pictures do the talking.

Here are some tips for visiting the Alhambra:

• Book your tickets in advance online (search for Alhambra). Except maybe in winter, the tickets are likely to be sold out everyday and cannot be purchased on the spot.
• Choose the timing to visit the Nasrid Palace carefully and make sure you get there on time, or you may be denied entry.  This is the first thing you should see in the Alhambra, and this is also why, on your booking confirmation slip, you are advised to collect your tickets one hour before your selected time slot.
• Remember to bring the credit card you have used for purchasing the ticket as you will need it for ticket collection. The ticket collection machines are near the ticket sales booth.
• There are two ways to get to the Alhambra on foot (there is also a bus). The Alhambra map and information brochure advices you to go up from the south side, whereby halfway enroute, there is a “shortcut” to get to the Nasrid Palace first. This will save you a lot of walking to and fro. Since i did not take this route, i cannot confirm whether they have the ticket collection machines at this entrance, but i reckon they should have it if it is an official entrance. See below for map and direction on how to find this route, the one which is pleasantly lined with trees.

From the main road, Calle Reyes Católicos, look out for a pink coloured sign that directs you to the Alhambra into Cuesta de Gomérez. Here’s what it looks like:

Walk further up the slope and you’ll see this gate. Proceed past the gate and up the left side.

If you’re going to visit the Alhambra soon, have a great time! I’m sure you will. By the way, the city of Granada itself, with its many parks and fountains seemingly inspired by the Alhambra, also makes for an enjoyable visit.