Generalife, Granada

Gardens and Palace in Granada

The Court of la AcequiaGeneralife Grenada 2
The Court of la AcequiaGeneralife Grenada 2

The Generalife is one of the top attractions in Granada, a serene retreat of patios, cypress avenues, flowing water, and whitewashed Nasrid architecture. Sitting on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol (Hill of the Sun), it faces the Alhambra across a green valley and offers sweeping views over Granada and the Genil and Darro river valleys. Originally designed as a royal escape from courtly pressures, the complex is an oasis of tranquillity where water, shade, and geometry shape a perfect harmony between landscape and architecture.

It is a highlight of any walking tour of Granada, leading visitors through new gardens, ancient pathways, historic courtyards, and the evocative Water Stairway. As the sultans' 14th-century summer residence, the Generalife preserves an intimate side of Nasrid life that contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of the palaces across the valley.

History and Significance of the Generalife

The Generalife dates back to the reign of Muhammed II (1273-1302) and was later remodelled by Muhammed III (1302-1309) and Abu I-Walid Isma'il (1313-1324). Its name comes from the Arabic jinan al-‘arif, meaning “the overseer's gardens.” Unlike the richly decorated Alhambra palaces, the Generalife was deliberately plain, designed as a place of retreat, contemplation, and leisure for the Nasrid rulers.

After the Christian conquest of Granada in 1492, the Generalife passed to the Granada Venegas family. Subsequent centuries saw several alterations, including the addition of arched windows, a second floor in parts of the palace, and new 19th-century fountains. The large modern gardens were created between 1931 and 1951 by Francisco Prieto Moreno. In 1984, the Generalife was inscribed as part of the Alhambra UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to See and Do in the Generalife

Lower Gardens and Jardines Nuevos

Visitors begin in the newer gardens, created in the 20th century, where elegant rectangular beds, fountains, and avenues of cypress trees guide you up towards the historic areas. The Generalife Theatre, built in 1952 for the Festival of Music and Dance, sits near the entrance-an addition not part of the Nasrid plan but now used for cultural performances.

Palace of the Generalife

Entrance to the palace is through a modest door partly hidden by undergrowth, leading up a narrow staircase to the royal chambers. Despite their simplicity, these rooms embody the serenity the sultans sought here. The palace consists of two building groups linked by the iconic Patio de la Acequia.

Patio de la Acequia

The Patio de la Acequia is the Generalife's most famous courtyard, featuring a long water channel bordered by flowerbeds, myrtle hedges, and arching fountains.

©

Its galleries and pavilions offer views towards the Alhambra. The northern portico, the Mirador, contains five delicate arches facing the patio and three smaller marble arches behind them.

Jardín de la Sultana / Patio del Ciprés

Directly north of the Patio de la Acequia lies the Sultana's Garden, also known as the Courtyard of the Cypress or Patio del Ciprés. A tranquil pond, arcades, and myrtle hedges frame this quiet corner. Here stands the remains of a legendary cypress tree associated with Zoraya, whose supposed affair gave rise to dramatic episodes in Nasrid history.

Escalera del Agua

One of the most magical features of the Generalife is the Escalera del Agua, a shaded staircase where water flows down the handrails and steps. Laurel trees form a leafy vault overhead, and small fountains divide the stairway into three beautiful landings. This passage leads to the High Gardens.

High Gardens and Mirador Romántico

The upper terraces were once olive groves and now feature viewpoints, open esplanades, and modern landscaped areas. At the summit sits the neo-Gothic Mirador Romántico, built in 1836. From here, you can admire some of the finest views of the Alhambra and the entire valley.

How to Get to the Generalife

The closest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada Airport, with flights from major Spanish cities. Many international visitors arrive via Málaga Airport, around 90 minutes away with bus and rail links. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's main rail station provides connections from Madrid, Málaga, Seville, and Barcelona. From the station, local buses or a walk through the historic centre lead to the Alhambra complex and onward entrances to the Generalife. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car, follow signs for the Alhambra from central Granada or the A-44. Parking is available near the main Alhambra pavilion entrance. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Generalife

  • Suggested tips: Visit early or late in the day for shade and calmer courtyards.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer when fountains and flowerbeds are at their peak.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Included in most Alhambra tickets (general admission €19-€25).
  • Opening hours: Same schedule as the Alhambra; longer hours in summer.
  • Official website: Patronato de la Alhambra y Generalife.
  • How long to spend: 1-2 hours.
  • Accessibility: Some slopes and steps; partially accessible routes available.
  • Facilities: Toilets and cafés located near the main Alhambra entrances.
  • Photography tip: Capture the Patio de la Acequia from the far pavilion for perfect symmetry.
  • Guided tours: Many Alhambra tours include the Generalife; specialist garden tours available.
  • Nearby food options: Cafés near the Alhambra ticket pavilion and restaurants on Cuesta de Gomérez.

Where to Stay close to the Generalife

Stay inside the Alhambra grounds at the elegant Parador de Granada for a truly memorable experience. For convenience near the Generalife entrance, consider Hotel Alixares. In the Albaicín, Hotel Casa 1800 Granada offers charm and atmospheric views.

Is the Generalife Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Generalife is one of the must-see places in Granada for its calming gardens, poetic architecture, and timeless views. With its fountains, shaded patios, historic stairways, and intimate palace spaces, it offers a different, more personal side of Nasrid culture that beautifully complements a visit to the Alhambra.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (10,012)

Generalife, in Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain, is an ancient Muslim palace set amid elegant, well kept ornamental gardens with pools, courtyards and vibrant blooms; visitors praise its peaceful, painting‑like atmosphere, scented flowers, fountains and sweeping views over Granada and the surrounding mountains, note plenty of seating and one drinking fountain, warn that some steps are steep and the site can be very busy, and recommend allowing ample time (and booking well in advance) to fully enjoy the gardens and views.

Ahsan Abbas
a week ago
"A must see, what a place and lovely gardens. Amazing views and excellent preservation of history. We really enjoyed our time here. The only downsidewas we diddnt have longer time. I would recommend taking plenty of time to view all the sites and taking lunch with you. Its busy but lots to see and lots to take in. Not to be rushed...."
Jason Carroll
2 months ago
"Such beautiful gardens, which are well looked after. Too many people walking through (which includes myself), but the spot was amazing 👏. Thank youfor sharing this magical place with tourists...."
Lisa Blaxall
5 months ago
"Beautiful gardens with stu ing views and a lovely scent from the flowers. The gardens are well kept, safe to walk or stroll a pram, and there is onedrinking fountain to top up your water bottle on a hot day. Some steps are very deep and hard to climb if you have difficulties, but there are plenty of seats to sit and enjoy if preferred...."

FAQs for Visiting the Generalife

Yes, standalone garden tickets are available, but most visitors choose combined Alhambra access.
Typically 1-2 hours.
Yes, and it is one of the highlights of the upper gardens.
Yes-there are open spaces and shaded paths.
Yes, seasonal night tours offer a magical atmosphere.
Yes, throughout the gardens and palace.
Only assistance dogs.
Mornings and mid-afternoons are busiest; evenings are quieter.
Yes, local buses run frequently to the Alhambra pavilion. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Partial access is available, though some areas include steps.

Nearby Attractions to the Generalife

The Generalife appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Granada: 1 km
Powered by GetYourGuide

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs

Patio de los Arrayanes with Torre de Comres behind Palcio de Comres
Patio de los Arrayanes with Torre de Comres behind Palcio de Comres

15 Best Things to See and Do in Granada, Spain (2026)

Granada is a fascinating part of Spain with a rich history and culture. As with any city it is packed with attractions and monuments to explore - starting with the the amazing Alhambra fortress and the old Moorish neighborhood of Albaicín and Sacromonte, cracking street art, great tapas bars and a annual fiesta. From the […]

Palace of the Lions of the Alhambra
Palace of the Lions of the Alhambra

The Nasrid Palaces 2026: The Heart of the Alhambra

The Nasrid palaces are what everyone thinks of when the Alhambra is mentioned. The Alhambra’s most celebrated structures are the three original royal palaces built by the Nasrid rulers during the 14th Century when they moved out of the Alcazaba into more comfortable accommodation. They were built to impress and are some of the best […]

Patio de la Acequia in Generalife, Granada, Spain
Patio de la Acequia in Generalife, Granada, Spain

Generalife, Alhambra 2026: The Architect’s Garden

Generalife occupies the slopes of the Cerro del Sol or Hill of the Sun, across the valley from the Nasrid Palaces. The Generalife was built in the 13th century as a leisure place for the kings of Granada when they wanted to get away from the official affairs of the palace.  The Palacio de Generalife […]

Plaza de Los Aljibes, Alhambra, Grenada
Plaza de Los Aljibes, Alhambra, Grenada

Alcazaba, Alhambra 2026: The Fortress of the Alhambra

The history of Granada is somewhat distinctive from most of Spain. Lying just a couple of hundred kilometers from Morocco, this part of Spain has experienced the best of the Moorish era. The way of living in this part of the country, its architecture and culture, still blatantly reflects its quintessential Andalusian roots. Granada’s Alhambra […]

Patio De Los Leones, Alhambra
Patio De Los Leones, Alhambra

The Nasrid Palaces 2026 | Palace of the Lions

In the Alhambra, the Palace of the Lions or El Palacio de los Leones marks the highlight of its splendor. The Palacio de los Leones (Palace of the Lions) stands next to the Comares Palace but should be considered an independent building. The two structures were connected after Granada fell to the Christians. This palace was […]

Patio of the Myrtles, Alhambra
Patio of the Myrtles, Alhambra

The Nasrid Palaces 2026 | The Comres Palace

The Comares Palace was the official residence of the king and it comprises several rooms that surrounded the Patio de los Arrayanes. Its building was initiated by the Nasrid ruler of Granada, Ismail I (1314-25), and continued by Yusuf I (1333-54), though he was assassinated before he could complete the work. So Muhammad V finished […]

Sala del Mexuar, Alhambra
Sala del Mexuar, Alhambra

The Nasrid Palaces 2026 | The Mexuar

The Mexuar was the first palace to be built by Ismail I at the start of the 14th Century. This became the semi public part of the palaces administering justice and controlling state affairs. It was partially destroyed by Yusuf II when he built the Comares Palace behind it in the mid 14th Century. This […]

The Fall of Granada 1492
The Fall of Granada 1492

Boabdil, the Kast King of Granada

Abu Abdullah was the twenty-second and last Nasrid ruler of Granada in Iberia. Boabdil is a Spanish rendering of the name Abu Abdullah. Boabdil was born in the Alhambra Palace his father was Abul Hassan Ali, who was also known as Muley Hacén and his mother the Sultana Aixa. From the start, a shadow lay over him, as court astrologers […]

Paintings of the 10 Kings, Sala de los Reyes, Alhambra
Paintings of the 10 Kings, Sala de los Reyes, Alhambra

The Nasrid Dynasty: Rulers of Granada, the Alhambra, and Their Lasting Legacy

The Nasrid dynasty was the last Moorish and Muslim dynasty in Spain. The dynasty rose to power after the defeat of the Almohad Caliphate in 1212 at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa. Twenty-three different emirs ruled Granada from the founding of the dynasty in 1232 by Mohammed I ibn Nasr until January 2, […]

The Hill of the Alhambra, Granada
The Hill of the Alhambra, Granada

History of the Alhambra

The Alhambra is one of the most popular tourist sites in Spain. It is an ancient palace and fortress situated on the outskirts of the town of Granada in Andalusia. It was constructed by the Moors who invaded the country in the 8th century, and is a fine example of the hybrid style known as […]

Columns Patio de los Leones, Palacio de los Leones, Alhambra
Columns Patio de los Leones, Palacio de los Leones, Alhambra

The Land of Al-Andalus

In the Middle ages al-Andalus referred to that part of the Iberian Peninsula that was under Muslim control, which was most of it. The Arabic word al-Andalus translated to Spanish means Andalucia. Romans and Visigoths Since the gradual retreat of the Roman empire in 409 Spain had been ruled by the Visigoths, a German gothic […]

View of Alhambra
View of Alhambra

Guided Tours of the Alhambra 2026: Which One to Choose?

If you are having trouble getting hold of your then purchasing a tour is a simpler solution. Before you you purchase a Alhambra tour, find out all about the different types of guided tours available. This blog will help you pick the right tour out of our recommended Alhambra Guided Tours. Read on and pick […]

Patio de los Arrayanes with Torre de Comres behind Palcio de Comres
Patio de los Arrayanes with Torre de Comres behind Palcio de Comres

Your Complete Guide to Alhambra Tickets (2026)

Set in the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains the fortress of Alhambra is one of the most visited monuments in Spain. Its sandstone walls are carved with elaborate arabesques and Islamic calligraphy, gurgling fountains and windswept ramparts with sweeping views of the rolling hills of the Andalusian countryside; a visit to the Alhambra Palace is simply magical! […]

View of Alhambra
View of Alhambra

21 Things to See in the Alhambra for Free 2026

The Alhambra was a fortified city, a complex of palaces, towers, gardens and access gates. This is the reason why a large part of the Alhambra can be seen for free. [Travel-Section] Continue down the Carrera del Darro and you will come to the Plaza Nueva de Granada, where you started.

Paseo de las Torres Alhambra
Paseo de las Torres Alhambra

Walk the Paseo de las Torres in Granada 2026: Views, Towers & History

The Paseo de las Torres or Promenade of the Towers, is a landscaped promenade dotted by various towers, gardens, and Nasrid ruins. It connects the Jardines del Partal with the Alhambra Alta and the Generalife.