Granada Attractions
The Alhambra, also known as the ‘Red Castle,’ is a magnificent fortress that was ruled during the Nasrid dynasty.
While most historic sites are explored in daylight, Alhambra Castle is unique as tourists can explore at night as well.
With fewer crowds and the Castle beautifully illuminated at night, it gets both romantic and enchanting, adding a sense of mystery and adventure to the experience.
Night visits are perfect for couples and families who prefer a peaceful atmosphere to explore the Palace.
Strolling through the Monumental Complex under the stars is an unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss!
Table of Contents
Alhambra night tours
Alhambra night tours start at 10 pm and last around 90 minutes.
You can choose between a guided tour or a self-guided tour.
While booking your tour, you can opt to visit either the Nasrid Palaces & Charles V Palace or the Generalife Gardens & Palace.
Unfortunately, you can’t visit all attractions within the complex with a one-night tour ticket.
The meeting point for Alhambra by night is usually the Pavilion entry of the Alhambra and Generalife, beside the tourist headquarters.
Alhambra night tours are a great way to score Granada castle tickets at the last minute.
Insider Tip
Alhambra Palace tickets sell out fast – sometimes 90 days in advance. If you haven’t yet received your tickets, check out our tips for securing last-minute Alhambra tickets.
Guided tour of Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces at night
Explore the Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces under the night sky, away from the daytime crowds.
Step inside the private royal chambers of the Nasrid Emirs and admire the intricate Moorish architecture illuminated at night.
Marvel at the Puerta de la Justicia and the Palace of Carlos V—a truly unforgettable way to experience the Alhambra!
A radio-guide system is provided for groups of more than 7 people to ensure clear communication with the guide throughout the tour.
This tour offers two options: a budget-friendly shared group experience or a premium private tour. You can choose your preferred option when booking.
Shared group tour price
Adult ticket (12+ years): 48 Euros
Child ticket (2 to 11 years): 20 Euros
Infant ticket (below 2 years): 5 Euros
Private tour price: 200 Euros for two people
Select Your TourSelf-guided night tour of Alhambra
This 90-minute night entry ticket offers two options, allowing you to choose between Gardens & Generalife or Nasrid Palaces & Charles V Palace.
If you opt for a night visit to the Gardens and Generalife, you can explore the Access Pavilion, Generalife Walnut Trees’ Walk, Gardens, and Palace. (does not include the Nasrid Palaces)
If you opt for a night visit to the Nasrid Palaces and Charles V Palace, you will see the Nasrid Palaces (Mexuar, Palacios de Comares, etc), Charles V Palace, and the Gate of Justice. (does not include the Generalife or gardens)
With the help of the audio guide, you can take in the beauty of this iconic site at your own pace. You can pick up an audio guide at the Entrance Pavilion. (next to the ticket office)
Gardens & Generalife ticket price
Adult ticket (16+ years): 12 Euros
Youth ticket (12 to 15 years): 9 Euros
Infant ticket (below 12 years): Free entry
Nasrid Palaces & Charles V Palace ticket price
Adult ticket (16+ years): 15 Euros
Child ticket (12 to 15 years): 11 Euros
Infant ticket (below 12 years): Free entry
You need to show your original ID card or passport at every access.
Is the Alhambra night visit worth it?
Yes, the Alhambra night visit is worth it! It offers a magical and peaceful experience, with the palace beautifully lit to highlight its intricate details.
The special lighting highlights intricate architectural details, creating a soft glow on the ornate ceilings, courtyards, and flowing water features, which gives a mystical experience.
You’ll also see landmarks like the Patio de los Leones, Comares Tower, Palace of Charles V, etc, glowing under the night sky.
However, some areas open during the day are restricted at night, so if you prefer natural light to see the full colors of the Alhambra, a daytime visit may be better.
For a quiet and enchanting atmosphere, the night tour—whether guided or self-guided—is an unforgettable experience. However, some visitors only suggest a night tour if you have already visited the Granada Castle during the day.
Visiting the Palace of Charles V, the Alhambra Museum, and the Mosque Baths is free.
Alhambra night lights
One of the best parts of visiting Alhambra at night is the beautiful lighting that highlights its architecture, offering a unique perspective.
Soft lanterns glow warmly on the Nasrid Palaces, making the detailed carvings and geometric patterns stand out.
The shadows created by the lights add to the magical atmosphere, making visitors feel like they’ve stepped back into the Moorish era.
The exterior lighting of the Alhambra Castle varies by season:
November 1 – February 28: From dusk until 2 am
March 1 – October 3: From dusk until 4 am
Special Occasions: Easter Week (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday), Corpus Christi (the Saturday before the final Saturday of the event), and Christmas (from December 24 to January 5) – Lighting extends until 6 am
Opening hours of Alhambra at night
During peak season (1 April – 14 October), Alhambra’s night visits are available Tuesday to Saturday from 10 pm to 11.30 pm. The ticket office is open from 9 pm to 10.45 pm.
During the lean months (15 October – 31 March), night visits run only on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 pm to 9.30 pm, with the ticket office open from 7 pm to 8.45 pm.
Alhambra Gardens timings
Alhambra Gardens are not open for night visits from 1 June to 31 August and 15 November to 31 March.
Rest of the year, from Tuesday to Saturday, the Gardens follow these timings:
| Months | Gardens entry | Ticket Office |
| 1 Apr to 31 May (Tue – Sat) | 10 pm – 11.30 pm | 9 pm – 10.45 pm |
| 1 Sept to 14 Oct (Tue – Sat) | 10 pm – 11.30 pm | 9 pm – 10.45 pm |
| 15 Oct to 14 Nov (Fri – Sat) | 8 pm – 9.30 pm | 7 pm – 8.45 pm |
On Sundays and Mondays, night visits aren’t allowed.
Alhambra remains closed on two days a year – 25 December and 1 January.
The last entry to all areas of Alhambra is one hour before closing time.
All visitors inside the Fortress complex are requested to leave the monument at closing time.
Best time to visit Alhambra at night
The best time to visit Alhambra at night is in the late evening, starting with a sunset view over the palace.
Visiting the Nasrid Palaces at night is recommended as the place is illuminated with lights and breathtaking views.
Visiting the Nasrid Palaces at night is special, as the lights inside the Palace enhance its beauty.
Visit Alhambra at night during spring and fall, especially between April and June and October to November, which offers the best weather.
During peak season, sunset occurs around 7:30 pm, making it the perfect time to arrive for a breathtaking view of Granada.
Watch as the city lights up, the sky glows with sunset hues, and Alhambra’s surroundings remain beautifully visible before nightfall, creating a truly scenic experience.
Insider tips for the Alhambra night visit
Dinner with a View: Before your night visit, enjoy a relaxing meal at a restaurant in the Albaicín district, where you can take in scenic views of the Alhambra.
Book in Advance: Evening tours are also limited, so book your tickets early through the official Alhambra website.
Dress & Footwear: You are expected to walk for more than an hour during your visit, so wear comfortable clothing during cooler evening temperatures and walking shoes for a pleasant experience.
Night Photography: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the Nasrid Palaces and Carlos V Palace at night.
Reminder: Camera flashes are not allowed as they disturb other visitors and affect the atmosphere.
