Last minute Barcelona and Granada problems

Weather-wise I think this is an excellent time for southern Spain and probably somewhat less than ideal for the Basque Country, but you may not be as weather-driven as I am.

There are many interesting places in Andalucía other than Granada, but it is likely the case that hotel rates are higher than normal in all the major cities in that region and even in the smaller ones with significant festivities.

There are also lots of interesting places in Catalunya.

I can't offer any specific tour suggestions that will get you into the Alhambra. You'll want a tour that specifically mentions visiting the Palacios Nazaries. I believe most of them do go there, but there may be a greater risk of ending up with an inferior product during the very busy Semana Santa week when there is so much excess demand.

Hotels often can get tickets for their guests. Have you tried that avenue?

Try your hotel, it's your best bet. But keep in mind, their ability to perform magic is limited.

How much free time do you have at your disposal outside of business?

How about Valencia instead of Granada? Short train ride and weather is better than San Sebastián (which I adored in September).

Can you find a room in Malaga? A couple days during Semana Santa would be great. You'll have time to see the Roman ruins, several good small museums and the processions are a wow. Otherwise, Valencia is a good choice for 2-3 nights. You don't say how long your trip is. There's enough to see and do in Barcelona to fill a week.

The hotel is your best bet at this time. That is how we obtained our tickets. It is my understanding that a block of tickets are set aside for hotel guests. There was no mark up on the tickets we obtained for four people.

Looks like I'm gonna head north to San Sebastian and save Southern Spain for another trip. Yes, I know rain is a near certainty up north but, I'm not deterred, since I'll be chasing great food.

The amount of time I have is limited and the distance to get down to Granada would be best served dedicating at least a week to also match with visiting Seville, Cordoba, Ronda and Malaga. Thanks for everyone's feedback, your opinions are appreciated.

Weather-wise, I would not recommend going up to the Basque County in April it will be quite wet, in Spain we actually have a nice little rhyme for it - "en Abril aguas mil" literally "a thousand waters in April"... good luck! ;)

We experienced some rain in San Sebastian (Donostia) on our October visit but spent some of that time inside the aquarium/museum - worth a visit!

If you're looking for truly great dining, albeit at a great (but very worthwhile) price, have lunch or dinner at 3-Michelin Star Restaurant Martin Beresategui, located a few miles south of San Sebastian, in Lasarte-Oria. It will be fantastically memorable!

For the Alhambra - try signing up to an independent tour. They might have sports available. I can only guess that it will cost you more than if you bought tickets directly.

If you're looking for truly great dining, albeit at a great (but very worthwhile) price, have lunch or dinner at 3-Michelin Star Restaurant Martin Beresategui, located a few miles south of San Sebastian, in Lasarte-Oria. It will be fantastically memorable!

San Sebastian and the surrounding area doesn't lack for exceptional food from chefs like Beresategui, Arzak, Aduriz and Arguinzoniz. I'm planning on eating at Elkano since their famous grilled turbot is now in-season.

OK, enjoy your rodaballo!