If you’ve got time to spare…
…then visit the Alhambra. The Alhambra complex is truly epic. Comprising palaces, a fortress, and sprawling gardens, the Alhambra covers 35 acres in total. Needless to say, you’ll need to devote a whole day to get the most out of your visit to the Alhambra. And forget about turning up on the morning of your visit to buy a ticket. Admission to this incredible citadel is often sold out months in advance. Pre-booking a guided tour ensures you won’t miss out and guarantees priority access to the grounds.
If you’ve only got a few hours…
…opt for the Alcazar. While the Alhambra is a steep hike from the outskirts of Granada, the Alcazar is located in the heart of Seville. What’s more, this compact complex of Moorish palaces and gardens can easily be explored in half a day. Book a skip-the-line ticket, and you’ll be finished in time to take in the Gothic splendor of Seville’s cathedral or stop for a crisp churro in the city square.
If you love blooms and blossoms…
…don’t miss the Alhambra’s stunning Generalife gardens. The Alhambra was the palatial summer home of the Nasrid dynasty. And once you’ve wandered its cool, lush gardens, studded with fountains, orange groves, and fragrant blossoms, you’ll see why the royals came here to beat the heat!
If you feel alive in bustling cities…
…skip Granada and go straight to Seville. The Alcazar is an oasis of calm in one of Spain’s most vibrant cities, and once you’ve explored the palace complex you’ll still be spoiled for things to do and see. Think bull rings, bustling bars and restaurants, and a feast of Baroque architecture.
If you’re a night owl…
…then stay up late and see the Alhambra after dark. Emptied of the daytime crowds and illuminated in spectacular colors, the Alhambra complex after nightfall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you’re into the finer details…
…then admire the Alcazar up close. Both the Alhambra and the Alcazar feature stunning design and craftsmanship around every corner. However, the Alcazar boasts some particularly intricate features. The Sala de los Embajadores is adorned with spectacular friezes and frescoes. Meanwhile, design-lovers could spend hours gazing at the intricate carvings of the ceilings in the Sala de Audiencias.
If you’re a mountain-lover…
…then get some altitude when you visit the Alhambra. Perched on a steep ridge overlooking Granada, the Alhambra is set against an exquisite mountain backdrop. Granada is also a convenient gateway to the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada ranges. So, strap on your hiking boots and start exploring!
If you want to avoid the crowds…
…then soak up some solitude at the Alcazar. While both the Alcazar and the Alhambra are on the radar for visitors to Spain, there’s no denying that the Alhambra is the more popular destination. Visit the Alcazar early in the day, however, and you’ll be able to experience the palace complex in peace.
If you never say no to free food…
…then get on a tapas-crawl in Granada. A visit to the Alhambra is certain to leave you hungry. Luckily, Granada is home to some of the best tapas in Spain — and it’s all free! Simply order a glass of sherry or a tumbler of sangria and you’ll be plied with delicious morsels of Spanish food until you’re too full to eat any more.
If your favorite emoji is the dancing lady…
…then cap off your visit to the Alcazar with a traditional Sevillano flamenco show. Seville’s flamenco scene is legendary and the historic neighborhood of Triana is filled with authentic tablaos, or flamenco bars. Sit back and let Spanish traditions come alive!
