Whether you’ve got a tight schedule for your upcoming trip to Spain or simply want to save time sightseeing to squeeze in a few more platters of jamon iberico, you might need to be selective about which Spanish sights you see. Granada’s Alhambra and  Seville’s Alcazar both regularly top lists of Spain’s must-sees. But which one will be a must-see for you?
Discover the Alhambra and Generalife palace grounds on a 3-hour small-group guided tour of the Moorish and Mudéjar complex, including the Nasrid Palaces.

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.

Enjoy priority entrance with this guided tour of the oldest functioning royal palace in Europe and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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.

Don’t miss the lush Generalife Gardens at the Alhambra.

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!

Skip the lines to the bullring in Seville. Learn more about Spanish culture, the aim of bullfighting, and what it means for the people who love it.

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. 

Discover the Alhambra on a unique evening tour.

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. 

The Alcazar’s stunning craftsmanship is a treat for travelers who can’t get enough of intricate interiors.

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. 

Experience the rugged terrain of a Via Ferrata on a 4-hour hiking tour from Granada.

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! 

Head to the Alcazar earlier in the day for a more relaxing visit.

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.

Discover Granada’s traditional dishes, products, and hidden treasures on a walking tour.

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.

Experience a traditional, live flamenco performance at the best venue in Seville.

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!

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