When to Visit the Alhambra: Required Reading Before Booking Tickets

As one of the most important tourist attractions in Spain, the Alhambra deserves a well-planned visit—unless you don't want to spend your day fighting off crowds and jostling to get the best pictures. This guide to when to visit the Alhambra will help you plan your day, as well as decide the best time of year to go if you haven't gotten to that point in your travel plans yet.

When to Visit the Alhambra: Time of Day

In the morning

Our personal recommendation for when to visit the Alhambra would be at about 10 a.m. This way, you won't have to wake up too early, but you'll still beat the crowds that inevitably arrive later in the morning or afternoon. This is also a great time to take a guided visit. Since these tours typically last two and a half to three hours, starting around 10 in the morning means you'll be finished and ready to head into town for lunch.

During locals' lunch

Can't make it in the morning? Another great idea for when to visit the Alhambra is around 3 p.m. At this time, there won't be nearly as many locals or Spanish tourists—they'll all be eating lunch! There will still be visitors from other countries, but the crowds will be noticeably thinner during this time. This window also gives you plenty of time to enjoy one of the best times of day in Granada: the evening!

Not sure when to visit the Alhambra? Consider coming around 3 pm to avoid crowds. — You'll have the Alhambra practically to yourself if you come while locals are eating lunch!

When to Visit the Alhambra: By Season

Spring & Fall

Still not sure when to visit the Alhambra as far as time of year? Spring and fall are easily the best seasons to come to Granada. From April to June as well as in October and November, the weather is comfortably warm without the overwhelming heat that blankets Andalusia in the summer. Spring is an especially wonderful time to see the Generalife gardens in full bloom!

When to visit the Alhambra: springtime, without a doubt! — The beautiful gardens at the Generalife are at their best in spring.

In December

Despite the beautiful weather during spring and fall, both are part of peak season in Granada. If you're wondering when to visit the Alhambra for the smallest crowds, consider coming in December. This special time of year is especially magical in Granada, yet few tourists visit during this time. Make like a local and stop for some churros and chocolate while admiring the iconic Alhambra and the Christmas lights twinkling all over town!

See Also: The compete guide to visiting the Alhambra, and how to buy Alhambra tickets.