Visiting the Alhambra for Free – Eligibility & Budget Tips
Who Can Enter for Free?
Free tickets for the Alhambra are limited but do exist. Children under 12 years old enter free of charge, although they must have their own ticket reserved alongside an adult’s booking. Official educational groups from the European Union can request free, self-guided visits led by their teachers. On International World Heritage Day (16 November), the entire complex opens its doors for free—tickets are still nominative and must be booked in advance through official channels. Residents of Granada and its province can apply for complimentary tickets on weekends via the Patronato de la Alhambra y Generalife’s reservation system.
Discounted Admission & Special Rates
- Minors 12–15 years – Reduced admission (around €12.73 for the general visit) when accompanied by an adult.
- EU citizens aged 65+ – Discounted tickets for seniors from EU countries. Proof of age and EU citizenship is required.
- Holders of the European Youth Card – Young people with this card pay the same reduced rate as seniors.
- People with disabilities (≥33%) – Reduced admission; bring official disability documentation.
- Members of large families – Families recognised as “familia numerosa” in Spain or the EU are eligible for discounted tickets.
- Educational & cultural groups (≥15 people) – EU-based institutions may qualify for group discounts or free entry, subject to prior authorisation.
Free Areas of the Alhambra
Even without a ticket, you can experience parts of the Alhambra’s atmosphere. The forested slopes of the Sabika hill, reached via the Gate of the Pomegranates, offer shaded paths lined with chestnuts, poplars and laurels. From here, stroll to the Fountain of Charles V, a Renaissance masterpiece representing Granada’s three rivers. Continue uphill to the Gate of Justice — the most impressive of the outer gates — built in 1348 and adorned with the Hand of Fatima and a carved key. Once inside, the Plaza de los Aljibes opens between the military Alcazaba and the palaces: a spacious square where you can admire the walls and views of the Albaicín district. The Wine Gate and the Palace of Charles V (housing the Alhambra Museum and Museum of Fine Arts) are also freely accessible; EU citizens enjoy free entrance to these museums most days. While these areas lack the intricate stucco of the Nasrid Palaces, they still provide historic context and beautiful vistas.
Conditions & How to Qualify
To benefit from free or discounted entry, you must reserve the correct ticket and carry supporting documentation. Free child tickets must be booked at the same time as adult tickets and include each child’s name. Granada residents must prove residency and book in advance through the Patronato’s online form. Educational groups need authorisation and should apply via official channels. For discounted tickets, present an ID showing EU citizenship and age (for seniors), a European Youth Card, a disability certificate or a large-family card. Without these documents, staff may refuse the discount. Note that there are no general student discounts and no free admission for non-EU seniors.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Visits
- Plan ahead: free and discounted tickets are limited and must be reserved online well in advance.
- Combine free areas with a paid tour: wander the Alhambra forest and outer courtyards, then use a discounted ticket for the Nasrid Palaces and Generalife.
- Bring identification for each discounted ticket holder to avoid issues at the gate.
- Weekends for Granada residents fill quickly — apply as soon as the booking window opens.
- Even when admission is free, respect the monument: keep noise low, stay on paths and follow the timed entry rules for specific areas.
The Alhambra’s beauty isn’t reserved for those who pay full price. By understanding the categories and planning ahead, you can experience its gardens, gates and history without straining your budget.