hi debbs,

as you near Granada, you will see signs to the Alhambra - follow them! the route takes you to the south of the city and round to the Alhambra where there is a very large car park. [our hotel was just opposite the Alhambra and had special discounts for that car park so we had to head for it anyway].

this way you don't have to drive through the city.

have a great trip!

PS - do you have tickets for the evening visit? the experience at night is quite different - far fewer people for a start! you get a lovely view of the Nasrid palaces all lit up at night - they are beautiful and walking through the gardens at night is also very nice. strongly recommended if you can get tickets.

If you want to visit the city(its a great city) too, as it would be quite a walk from the alhambra, its not hard to find parking for a few hours near Plaza Nueva or Plaza Isabela.

Still best to park near Alhambra, as there is always space. You can leave Alhambra through the Gate of Justice further down the hill, near the entrance to Nazrite Palace and it's a 10 min stroll downhill to the centre. For the return to the car park, catch a minibus just off Plaza de Isabel la Católica (with fountains and equestrian statue) right to the top entrance and ticket office for Alhambra.

what alec said - it's a nice walk down to the town, and an easy bus ride back up.

one of my favourite places in Granada was was polperia - a restaurant/bar offering every sort of octopus or squid dish you can think of and then a few more. there was a great bar opposite with Jamon and sherry that was also very nice.