Jardines del Palacio del Generalife, Granada

Gardens in Granada

Jardines Del Palacio Del Generalife Alhambra
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Eva L

The Jardines del Palacio del Generalife are among the most intimate and historically significant corners of the Generalife estate. Tucked beneath the North Pavilion, these enclosed gardens date back to the Nasrid period and were admired as early as 1526, when Venetian ambassador Andrea Navagero described their ivy-covered walls and remarkable fountain that once shot water ten fathoms high. Their quiet atmosphere and layered history make them one of the where to go in Granada and a highlight of any walking tour of Granada.

These gardens form a serene transitional space between palace structures and later landscaped additions. While small, they offer a glimpse into the private horticultural world of the Nasrid rulers and into the restoration work carried out in the 20th century.

History and Significance of Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

The garden beneath the North Pavilion is one of the few enclosed spaces in the Generalife that survived from the Nasrid era. During the 16th century, it was already recognised for its beauty, with climbing ivies softening its walls and a powerful fountain forming its centrepiece.

In 1928, during restoration works by architect Torres Balbás, an adjoining building attached to the North Pavilion was demolished. This created the opportunity to lay out an additional small garden on a higher level west of the original space. Balbás’s interventions preserved the historic character of the site while opening new garden views and spatial connections.

Further west, below the Patio de la Acequia Gallery, lie other historic gardens. These appear in an early 19th-century engraving by traveller Alexandre Laborde, though their present arrangement differs from the version he recorded. Together, these gardens reflect centuries of evolution, from medieval palace horticulture to modern restoration.

Things to See and Do in Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

Take time to appreciate the enclosed layout of the Nasrid garden, with its quiet atmosphere and the sense of privacy it retains beneath the North Pavilion.

Look for surviving structural elements that hint at its earlier form, including walls likely once covered in ivy, as described by Navagero. The restored fountain and the garden’s overall geometry offer insight into medieval tastes for symmetry, sound, and water movement.

Climb the stairs westward to discover the 1928 garden created by Torres Balbás. This upper terrace offers a different perspective and connects to the gardens beneath the West Gallery.

Continue west along the lower level near the Patio de la Acequia Gallery, where additional garden spaces reflect later historical layouts and interpretations.

How to Get to Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

The Jardines del Palacio del Generalife sit beneath the North Pavilion and connect by stairs to the gardens beneath the West Gallery. They extend westward toward the lower zones near the Patio de la Acequia. The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada is well connected by rail to major cities like Málaga, Seville, and Madrid, making train travel a convenient way to reach the Alhambra and Generalife. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, be aware that parking near the Alhambra is limited; early arrival or advance booking is advisable. 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 Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

  • Suggested tips: Move slowly through the terraced levels to appreciate the transitions between Nasrid, 19th-century, and 20th-century garden designs.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning, when the enclosed garden is at its quietest.
  • Entrance fee: TheJardines del Palacio del Generalife is part of the Generalife of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.
  • Opening hours: For opening times of theJardines del Palacio del Generalife see Alhambra Opening Times.
  • Official website:
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes as part of the larger Generalife visit.
  • Accessibility: Includes stairs and uneven historic surfaces.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are available elsewhere within the Generalife complex.
  • Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the shaded Nasrid garden and the sunny upper terrace built by Torres Balbás.
  • Guided tours: Many tours include these gardens when exploring the palace architecture around the Patio de la Acequia.
  • Nearby food options: Cafés near the Alhambra entrance or restaurants throughout the Albaicín.

Where to Stay close to Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

Stay inside the monument at Parador de Granada for historic ambiance overlooking the gardens. Nearby, Áurea Washington Irving offers luxury themed around Granada’s literary heritage. A cosy option close to the palace paths is Hotel América.

Is Jardines del Palacio del Generalife Worth Visiting?

Yes, these gardens are a wonderful stop for anyone interested in the quieter, more private spaces of the Generalife. Their deep historic roots, layered evolution, and peaceful atmosphere make them a rewarding addition to the palace tour.

FAQs for Visiting Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

Are these gardens from the Nasrid period?
Yes, the core enclosed garden beneath the North Pavilion dates back to that era.

Who redesigned part of the gardens?
Torres Balbás added a new small garden in 1928 after removing an attached building.

Are the west gardens original?
They appeared in early 19th-century engravings but have since been redesigned.

How long do they take to visit?
Around 10–20 minutes.

Do they connect to other garden areas?
Yes, via stairs to the West Gallery gardens and onward toward the Patio de la Acequia.

Nearby Attractions to Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

The Jardines del Palacio del Generalife appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

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Visiting Jardines del Palacio del Generalife

Hours:

For opening times of theJardines del Palacio del Generalife see Alhambra Opening Times.

Price:

TheJardines del Palacio del Generalife is part of the Generalife of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.

Granada: 1 km

Nearby Attractions

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