Granada and the Alhambra: a day trip from the Costa Tropical
From Vélez de Benaudalla, the A-44 leads straight up to Granada. Here is how to make the most of a day there — starting with the Alhambra tickets.
✓ Facts checked on 8 November 2026
Getting there from Vélez de Benaudalla
Vélez de Benaudalla sits at the southern end of the A-44, the motorway that links Granada with the coast, so the drive north is straightforward. Coaches also run between Granada and the Costa Tropical; check current timetables with the operator.
Parking in central Granada is limited. Plan where you will leave the car, or use public transport within the city.
Alhambra tickets: the rules that matter
Buy from the official channel
The Patronato de la Alhambra sells tickets on its official website and by phone (+34 858 889 002); it describes its own website as the only official, guaranteed channel. Ticket offices sell only same-day tickets, subject to availability.
Bring original ID
Tickets are personal and non-transferable. Each visitor must carry an original identity document and show it if asked.
Be on time for the Nasrid Palaces
The palaces have a fixed entry slot, with capacity limited to 300 people every half hour. If you miss your slot, you lose the right to visit the palaces, and the date and time cannot be changed after purchase.
Children
Under-3s get free tickets at the ticket office. Children aged 3 to 11 also enter free but must be included in the booking.
If it shows “no availability”
Part of the capacity is released later, so it is worth checking the official website again.
Visiting the Alhambra
The general visit includes the Alcazaba, the Nasrid Palaces, the Partal and the Generalife gardens, and takes about three hours. Each area can only be entered once.
According to the Patronato, the monument opens from 8:30 to 18:00 in winter and 8:30 to 20:00 in summer. Check the official website for the dates of each season and for prices.
Together with the Generalife and the Albaicín quarter, the Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1984 and extended in 1994.
The Albaicín and Sacromonte
Across the valley from the Alhambra, the Albaicín is the old Moorish quarter of steep, whitewashed lanes. The Mirador de San Nicolás is its best-known viewpoint over the Alhambra, with the Sierra Nevada behind.
Further up, the Sacromonte is known for its cave houses.
The cathedral and the Royal Chapel
In the city centre, the Royal Chapel holds the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, next to Granada cathedral. Both are an easy walk from the foot of the Albaicín.
Tapas in Granada
Granada is known for the tradition of a tapa served with each drink in many bars. It makes an easy, informal dinner before the drive back to the coast.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I buy Alhambra tickets?
On the official website of the Patronato de la Alhambra y Generalife (tickets.alhambra-patronato.es) or by phone. The Patronato describes its website as the only official, guaranteed channel.
What happens if I miss my Nasrid Palaces time slot?
You lose the right to visit the palaces. The rest of the monument can still be visited with your ticket.
Do I need ID to visit the Alhambra?
Yes. Tickets are personal, and each visitor must carry an original identity document.
Can I combine Granada and the beach in the same holiday?
Yes. From Vélez de Benaudalla, Granada is to the north on the A-44 and the beaches of Motril and Salobreña are to the south.
Sources · Facts checked on 8 November 2026