Palacio Nazaríes, Granada

Palace in Granada

The Palacio Nazaríes is one of the best places to visit in Granada and the dazzling heart of the Alhambra complex. These palaces, with their ethereal courtyards, delicate stucco, painted wood ceilings, and soothing water channels, represent the artistic peak of Nasrid Granada. Visitors enter through the Alhambra's main gates and step into a world where geometry, poetry, and light blend into an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.

It is often visited on walking tours of Granada, but nothing prepares you for the sense of calm and refinement that defines these Moorish palaces. Whether you visit on a bright morning, a warm afternoon, or under a moonlit sky, the Palacio Nazaríes will leave a lasting impression of beauty and craftsmanship.

History and Significance of the Palacio Nazaríes
Things to See and Do in the Palacio Nazaríes

Palacio del Mexuar
Palace of Comares
Palacio de los Leones
Palacio del Partal

How to Get to the Palacio Nazaríes
Practical Tips on Visiting the Palacio Nazaríes
Where to Stay close to the Palacio Nazaríes
Is the Palacio Nazaríes Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Palacio Nazaríes
Nearby Attractions to the Palacio Nazaríes

History and Significance of the Palacio Nazaríes

The Nasrid Palaces were the royal residence of the sultans of Granada and the administrative heart of the emirate. Construction began in the 13th century under the dynasty's founder, Alhamar, and the palaces were expanded and refined under successive rulers. Muhammad V, together with structures begun by his father Yusuf I, oversaw much of the palace's most exquisite work during Granada's golden age.

The Palacio Nazaríes embodies the very best of Islamic art in Spain: elegant proportions, symbolic inscriptions, muqarnas vaulting, and a masterful use of water and gardens to create harmony. Influences from Persia, the Arab world, and North Africa blend here to form a uniquely Andalusian aesthetic that flourished just before the end of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula.

Today, the Nasrid Palaces remain the most precious part of the Alhambra complex and one of the finest surviving examples of late Islamic architecture in the Western world.

Things to See and Do in the Palacio Nazaríes

The Nasrid Palaces are composed of several palace sections, each with its own purpose, atmosphere, and architectural identity. Together, they form a flowing sequence of rooms and courtyards.

Palacio del Mexuar

Palacio del Mexuar
Built by Isma'il (1314-1325), this is the oldest surviving hall of the complex. It served as the audience chamber where the Council of Ministers met and where the sultan dispensed justice. The Mexuar marks the transition from public to private royal spaces.

Palace of Comares

This palace includes the Torre de Comares, Sala de la Barca, and the breathtaking Salón de los Embajadores, one of the grandest throne rooms in medieval Spain. Its walls are covered with poetry, stars, and intricate geometric patterns designed to reflect the sultan's authority and the cosmos itself.

Palacio de los Leones

The iconic Court of the Lions is the heart of this palace. Its slender marble columns and central fountain create a space often compared to a “paradise garden.” Surrounding halls include the Sala de los Abencerrajes and Sala de las Dos Hermanas, both richly decorated with carved stucco and muqarnas domes.

Palacio del Partal

Built in the early 14th century by Muhammad III, this elegant pavilion sits beside a reflective pond that mirrors its arches and tower. The Partal is one of the oldest parts of the complex and offers peaceful views over the Alhambra’s terraced gardens.

How to Get to the Palacio Nazaríes

For visitors arriving by air, the nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada Airport, though many international travellers arrive via Málaga Airport with onward rail and bus connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

The Palacio Nazaríes is located inside the Alhambra complex. Trains to Granada arrive from major cities including Madrid, Málaga, and Seville, with local transport or a scenic walk leading up to the Alhambra entrances. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, follow signs for the Alhambra from central Granada or major routes. Parking is available near the main 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 Palacio Nazaríes

Suggested tips: Arrive 15-20 minutes before your timed entry to avoid rushing.
Best time to visit: Early morning for calm reflections or late evening for soft golden light.
Entrance fee:
Opening hours:
Official website:
How long to spend: Around 1 hour inside, though you may linger longer.
Accessibility: Largely accessible, with adapted routes for wheelchairs.
Facilities: Restrooms and cafés located in nearby Alhambra visitor areas.
Photography tip: The Court of the Lions is best captured from the corners for symmetry.
Guided tours: Many guided visits explain architectural symbolism and Nasrid history.
Nearby food options: Restaurants along Cuesta de Gomérez and in Plaza Nueva.

Where to Stay close to the Palacio Nazaríes

For an unforgettable stay within the Alhambra grounds, choose Parador de Granada. A practical option near the palace entrances is Hotel Alixares. For charm and atmosphere in the Albaicín, consider Hotel Casa 1800 Granada.

Is the Palacio Nazaríes Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Palacio Nazaríes is one of the must-see places in Granada and the most exquisite example of Nasrid architecture in Spain. Its courtyards, fountains, poetry-covered walls, and luminous carved details create an atmosphere of otherworldly beauty that defines the spirit of the Alhambra.

FAQs for Visiting the Palacio Nazaríes

Do I need a timed ticket to enter?
Yes, entry times are strictly controlled due to limited capacity.

How long does the visit take?
Usually around one hour, though you can explore at your own pace.

Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is allowed except during some special exhibitions.

Is the Palacio Nazaríes wheelchair accessible?
There are adapted routes, though some historical surfaces are uneven.

Is it included in the Alhambra ticket?
Yes, but only if you choose the general or combined ticket.

Is it very crowded?
It can be, but timed entry helps manage flow.

Can I bring children?
Yes, though keep them close-spaces can be delicate or narrow.

Is night entry available?
Yes, seasonal nighttime visits offer a magical experience.

How early should I arrive?
Aim to reach the palace entrance 15 minutes before your slot.

Can I reach it by public transport?
Yes, local buses run frequently to the Alhambra pavilion entrance. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.