When is the best time to visit the Alhambra?

It's a staggering slice of history to digest, whenever you decide to go, but the best time of day to use your Alhambra tickets is in the early morning, or later in the afternoon. If you go early, not only will you have fewer tourists around, but the light will be a lot better for photos. Aim for before 10:00 and you'll have near-perfect lighting. If you want to visit the Alhambra when its gorgeous gardens are in full bloom, spring is the best time to head over. April and May are especially good, before the intense heat of summer arrives.

What are the "must sees" at the Alhambra?

There's lots to see with your Alhambra tickets in hand, but don't miss the Palace of Charles V, which was added by the Holy Roman Emperor in 1527. Breathe in the floral scents throughout the Generalife Garden s, which were first built in the 1200s and sit on a hill just above the main Alhambra palace complex. These gardens have been changed so many times by different rulers over the centuries that no one really knows what they looked like originally. It's fun to imagine! The opulent Nasrid Palaces are nothing short of jaw-dropping. They're the oldest palaces still standing, and were erected by the early Moorish rulers. A great photo spot is outside the Palace of the Lions , once home to the royal family. Look for the showpiece – a stunning courtyard fountain surrounded by a pride of marble lions.

Is there a restaurant in the Alhambra?

After soaking up stunning Islamic medieval art and architecture, palatial halls, courtyards and gorgeous gardens, it's time to refuel yourself. The Parador is a calm oasis in the hot, beating heart of the Alhambra. There's formal dining in the restaurant, or just opt for an informal drink or some tapas in the garden café. Fried fish is the specialty at La Mimbre , a kiosk/restaurant that's been run by a family for over a hundred years. Look for the shaded terrace as you line up to enter the Alhambra, between the high walls and the Alhambra Forest. Locally sourced fresh ingredients and family recipes handed down through generations are brought to life by young, aspiring chefs at Carmen San Miguel. Look for it on the hilltop of the fortress complex, overlooking the Jewish quarter.

Highlights: Alhambra tickets

It's one of the most famous monuments showcasing Islamic architecture in the world The best time to visit the Alhambra is spring and summer – the surrounding hills are covered in flowers The Alcazaba is a fortified military enclosure, and is the oldest part of the complex Visit the sultan's residence within the Nasrid Palaces Lush gardens and water features can be found at the Generalife summer palace There's a lot to see – you can expect to walk 5 km (3 mi) during your visit

The Alhambra showcases a beautiful mixture of cultures surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of Granada – it's no wonder why tickets to the Alhambra are difficult to come by. Usually sold out for months in advance, so book your tickets prior to your visit . Pick and choose the sites you want to see, with or without a guided tour. Choose the right Alhambra ticket or you: Spend more time inside this sprawling Moorish complex and less time spending in line with a variety of entry tickets you can book in advance. Note that not all tickets include entry to the Nasrid Palaces ! Enrich your visit to the Alhambra with a guided tour led by an expert historian Opt for a city pass to save money on combined admission fees to several attractions in Granada – including the Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces

Bring a photo ID or passport with you ; the name on the ticket must match the name on your ID Although this building is a Muslim heritage site, no dress code is required Plan on spending at least three hours at the venue for a thorough experience The Alhambra closed on December 25 and January 1 Selfie sticks, tripods, and flash photography are prohibted in most places within the complex Registered service dogs are allowed (with applicable documentation) Audio guides are available to rent at the venue