We are taking a 2 week cruise in Nov 2006. One of the stops is Malaga, Spain. One of the available excursions is to the Alhambra. I vividly remember this being talked about in my high school Spanish classes (over 30 years ago!). Would it be worth it to go see it? The trip is 8 hours and would take up all of our "port time" in Malaga.

Also additonal "one day" ports are Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and Funchal, Madeira in Portugal. Any specific suggestions for these ports? Thanks to all for your replies.

I have used this site to help plan a lot of our "precruise" week in Rome and Venice, and everyone has GREAT ideas. Thanks again!

yes.

Definitely!

I enjoyed the Alhambra but I saw SOME of the same architecture, interior adornment, etc., in Seville and other places.

However, if you have never been to Spain and this might be your only opportunity to see such then I would agree it is worth it.

If you plan to return to Spain and se it at a slower pace then I would have some reservations.

I assume that compared to staying in Malaga a lot of people would call this a "no brainer" but you do not say what other, if any, excusrions are offered.

I assume there is a lengthy bus ride involved.

without a doubt GO!!

The bus trip is less than 90 minutes. the Alhambra is going to be one of the new 7 wonders, it is worth definitely. The Seville Alcazar moorish palaces were built under catholic king Pedro I by Granada moorish artisans and craftpeople, there the similarity.

YES!

Okay - who thinks I should change my itenary so that I can see the Alhambra at night in addition to the day?

Now THAT I would wholeheartedly endorse..even better, depending on the weather, have dinner at the parador where the dining terrace overlooks the Generalife more or less...unforgettable if conditions are favorable.

Do go.

If a guide is included fine. If not they rent wonderful " tapes" for a self guided tours.

PS I cannot think of the right name, please someone help me...?

Audioguide?
Do try to see the alhambra at night. In fact, if you had to coose between that and seeing it during the day, I'd choose th night-time visit. You only get to see the Nasrid palaces [though you have to walk through the grounds to get to them] but the lighting is so beautiful, and the views so spectacular, that it is a real "must do". Also they let far fewer people in than they do during the day.
If you are organising this yourself, you can book your time-slot [and should do so] on line.
We liked Malaga, but it is really no more than a pleasant spanish city. Granada, and specifically the alhambra, is a real wonder of the world, as said by another poster.
Have a wonderful time.

Your desicion is probably done by now and (hopefully!) you will be taking the Alhambra excursion. The Alhambra is an spectacular sight and I would highly recommend to read up on the place prior to your visit. A lot about the Alhambra is the architecture and while a lot will be pointed out by a (good) guide, it will be much more worth your while to look up a bit of info ahead of time.

As far as day/night excursion, since your time in Andalucia is so limited and we are talking November timeframe, I would advise you to do the Alhambra as day sightseeing and choose a different activity for the evening.

Thank you all for your great input. I think the Alhambra will be a definite yes on our trip! It's good to know the bus ride is only 90 minutes too.

For sure go to the Alhambra!!!! Lord, I have spent 8 hours finding great BBQ and the Alhambra is definitely better than that!

You should definitely see the Alhambra. If you go to Barcelona, there are lots of 'must see's but none more so than the Sagrada Familia. It's spectacular - and won't be finished for another 40 years! There are lots of other Gaudi buildings and parks to see too.