About Real Alcázar
Originally built as a Moorish fortress in 913 AD, the Real Alcázar was rebuilt in the 14th century by Christian King Pedro I using Mudéjar craftsmen. The result is Europe's finest example of Mudéjar architecture - Islamic artistic traditions applied to Christian buildings. Still used by Spanish royal family, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and served as Dorne's Water Gardens in Game of Thrones.
⏰ Opening Hours & Best Times
- Hours: October-March: 9:30 AM-5 PM | April-September: 9:30 AM-7 PM | Open daily except January 1, January 6, Good Friday, December 25
- Best time: 9:30 AM opening or last entry slot (1 hour before closing)
- Least crowded: Monday-Wednesday mornings in winter
- Gardens peak: April-May when flowers bloom
💰 Costs
- General admission: €14.50
- Students (under 17): €6
- Seniors (65+): €6
- Audio guide: €6 additional
- Guided tours: €38-55 per person (skip-line + expert guide, 1.5 hours)
- Private guide: €160-280 for up to 6 people (doesn't include tickets)
Book ahead required: Only timed entry tickets sold - book weeks in advance for peak season. Official site: alcazarsevilla.org
🎯 Why Use a Guide
- Mudéjar architecture: Understand fusion of Islamic art and Christian symbolism
- Historical layers: Navigate 1,000+ years from Moors to modern royals
- Hidden meanings: Decode Arabic inscriptions and geometric patterns
- Garden secrets: Discover hidden grottos, pavilions in 7-hectare maze
- Game of Thrones locations: Find exact filming spots for fans
✨ Don't Miss
- ✨ Patio de las Doncellas: Stunning courtyard with reflecting pool and tilework
- 🪞 Ambassadors' Hall: Golden dome representing universe - where King Pedro murdered guests
- 🌿 Gardens: 7 hectares of orange trees, peacocks, fountains, and hidden corners
- 🎬 Mercury Pool: Game of Thrones' Water Gardens of Dorne
- 👑 Upper Royal Apartments: Still used by royals (separate ticket, limited access)
- 🎨 Gothic Palace: Contrast Mudéjar rooms with austere Christian architecture
📝 Practical Tips
- Book online weeks ahead: Timed entry only - sells out fast, especially spring/summer
- Arrive 15 min early: Security check, then enter exactly at your timeslot
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
- Allow 2-3 hours minimum: Palace alone needs 1-1.5 hours, gardens deserve at least 1 hour
- Photos allowed: No flash, no tripods
- Upper Apartments: Separate ticket (€5.50), limited capacity - book with main ticket
- Cool refuge: Thick walls keep palace cool even in 40°C summer heat