Nasrid Palaces: An Alhambra Smartphone Tour

On this self-guided audio tour, architecture scholar Blanca Espigares Rooney — whose family is from Alhambra — guides you through Granada's most iconic monument, helping you decode Arabic symbols and trace the Nasrid palaces' evolution across four distinctive periods. Starting at the Puerta de la Justicia, you'll explore the differences between Eastern and Western medieval architecture before entering the Palace of Charles V and the Nasrid Palaces themselves. Along the way, discover how Queen Isabella's 1492 decree preserved these structures by allowing adaptation rather than destruction, learn to identify the most repeated Arabic phrase throughout the palaces, and stand before the world's largest muqarnas in the Palace of the Lions. By the end, you'll have peered into the heart of one of history's most astonishing architectural achievements. PLEASE NOTE: Entry to the Alhambra and its palaces is not included. You'll need to purchase entry tickets separately.

1. 1

   The Alhambra

   Pass by

   Explore the Alhambra, Andalusia's enchanting palace complex and citadel, and Granada's most popular attraction, drawing around three million visitors a year. Please note that a separate admission ticket is required to access the Alhambra, and this is not included in the tour.

2. 2

   Puerta de la Justicia

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   Begin your tour in front of the Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice). Delve into the differences between Eastern and Western medieval architecture, including hidden entrances and multifunctional rooms.

3. 3

   Stop 3

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   Make your way to the Palace of Charles V, now home to the Museum of the Alhambra among other things. Discover how this building embodies Renaissance opulence, a striking contrast to the Nasrid splendor found elsewhere in the complex.

4. 4

   Stop 4

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   Enter the Nasrid Palaces, where the story of this architectural wonder unfolds. Discover how these palaces were adapted through the centuries, including the room where Washington Irving penned his famous Tales of the Alhambra.

5. 5

   Patio de los Arrayanes

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   Take in the Patio de los Arrayanes, one of the Alhambra's most photographed courtyards. Marvel at its reflective pool and manicured myrtle hedges, a hallmark of Nasrid garden design.

6. 6

   Stop 6

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   Explore the Torre de Comares, one of the most significant towers within the Nasrid Palaces. Discover how bright colors, water, and hydraulic control served as signs of wealth and power throughout this section of the complex.

7. 7

   Patio De Los Leones

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   Stand before the Patio de los Leones, home to the regal lion statues at the heart of the Nasrid Palaces. Marvel at the world's largest muqarnas, a vaulted stucco ceiling, in the neighbouring Palace of the Lions.

8. 8

   Sala de los Reyes

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   Explore the Sala de los Reyes, one of the most richly decorated halls within the Palace of the Lions. Take in the intricate detail that reflects the height of Nasrid artistic achievement.

9. 9

   Stop 9

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   Take in the breathtaking views from the Mirador de Lindaraja. Discover this quiet vantage point, a favourite spot for reflecting on the palace's intricate design.

10. 10

    Palacio El Partal

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    Explore El Partal, one of the oldest surviving sections of the Alhambra's palatial grounds. Take in its tranquil pond and portico, a peaceful counterpoint to the intricacy found elsewhere in the complex.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.