A language trip to Granada is synonymous with visiting a magical city, ideal for learning, living an authentic and enriching cultural experience. Imagine learning the language while admiring the Alhambra, strolling through Moorish streets and trying all the tapas you can find. All this and much more is offered by a language trip to Granada!

Live, savor, and enjoy every moment of your language trip to Granada. Still not convinced? Here are some advantages, places to visit, and dishes to try in Granada to help you decide when to start your Spanish adventure.

Advantages of a language trip to Granada

Still not sure whether to choose Granada or another city to start your Spanish adventure? Don't worry, at don Quijote we know it's not an easy decision, so here are seven advantages that will answer all your questions about Granada:

1. A vibrant university city. If Granada stands out for one thing, it's for being a young city full of life, all thanks to its famous university, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Spain. This creates a dynamic, multicultural, and lively atmosphere where there are always activities, meetings, workshops, and events where you can practice Spanish in real-life situations with local and international people.
2. Affordable lifestyle. Granada is also one of the most affordable cities in Spain. From accommodation to food, prices are quite reasonable compared to other larger Spanish cities. It is also famous for its tradition of free tapas with every drink, which makes any outing an adventure.
3. Diversity of accents and pronunciation. Being an Andalusian city, learning Spanish in Granada can be quite a challenge due to the accent and pronunciation of the locals. However, the city attracts students from all over Spain and other countries, allowing you to be exposed to different accents and ways of speaking the language.
4. Great educational opportunities. don Quijote has a Spanish school in Granada right in the city center with programs tailored to all levels and objectives. In addition to classes, we also offer cultural activities and excursions so you can practice the language outside the classroom.
5. Historical and cultural heritage. The Arab, Christian, and Jewish history can be felt in every street. During your free time, visit places such as the Alhambra or the Albaicín. Let your senses soak up everything around you while you continue to learn vocabulary, history, and cultural expressions on your language trip to Granada.
6. Close to nature. Just half an hour from Granada, you can ski in the Sierra Nevada or swimming at the beaches of the Costa Tropical. This allows you to combine your studies with weekend getaways without having to travel far.
7. Relaxed lifestyle and friendly people. The hospitality of Granada is genuine. You will find that the people are open, friendly, and always willing to help you if you need it. Practicing Spanish with locals is easy and very enriching.

Fiestas and festivals in Granada

In addition to studying the language, in Granada you can discover a city that knows how to celebrate, with festivities of all kinds. Its popular festivals are a window into Andalusian tradition and joy that will infect you the entire time you're there.

One of the most important is Día de la Cruz (May 3), when the squares and streets are filled with flowers, music, and colorful altars. It's a perfect opportunity to integrate and practice the language in a fun context.

Another highlight is the Corpus Christi Fair, held in June. There are marquees, flamenco costumes, lanterns, concerts, and parades. For a week, the city vibrates with music, dance, and local culture.

In February, the Granada International Tango Festival turns the city into a meeting point for music and dance lovers from all over the world. And in autumn, the city hosts the International Jazz Festival, one of the oldest in Europe.

Not to mention Holy Week, when processions wind their way through the city with overwhelming solemnity and beauty. Participating in or simply observing these celebrations gives you a better understanding of the religious, historical, and emotional language of the country.

Gastronomy during your language trip to Granada

Your language trip to Granada can be full of flavor if you decide to try dishes such as tortilla, serrano ham, or piononos (a typical sweet). Granada's cuisine is a mixture of Arabic and Castilian influences, with fresh products from the Vega, the Mediterranean Sea, and the mountains.

What's more, the best thing about Granada is that you can try lots of things without spending much, as bars serve a free tapa with every drink. The tapas are generous and varied, depending on the bar, ranging from eggplant with honey to croquettes, salmorejo, or paella. Each bar has its own specialty, making tapas almost a cultural ritual.

In the Albaicín neighborhood, you can try Moorish teas and Arabic sweets in tea rooms with exotic décor and views of the Alhambra. And if you're vegetarian or vegan, the city also has many healthy and tasty options.

Nearby cities and towns to visit

Another advantage of Granada is its strategic location. From here you can organize day trips or weekend getaways to places that look like something out of a fairy tale.

• The Alpujarra region of Granada is an area of small white villages such as Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira, located on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. Its landscapes, tranquility, and traditional architecture will transport you to another era.
• Montefrío, with its church perched on top of a rock and its impressive landscape, was chosen by National Geographic as one of the villages with the best views in the world.
• Guadix, famous for its cave houses, is another nearby and interesting destination. You can visit one of these dwellings carved into the mountainside and learn how their inhabitants live.
• And if you feel like going to the sea, in less than an hour you can reach the Costa Tropical, with beaches such as Salobreña and Almuñécar, perfect for relaxing and practicing Spanish in a relaxed environment.

In Granada, Spanish comes to life

A language trip to Granada is more than just studying and going to class. It's living it in every conversation, on every cobbled street and at every sunset over the Alhambra. It's letting yourself be carried away by a city that blends tradition and youth, history and modernity, mountains and sea.

Don't think twice, you have a thousand and one reasons to take a language trip to Granada and discover an authentic, accessible place, full of culture and friendly people. Not only will you learn and improve your Spanish, but you'll also discover an ideal destination that you'll fall in love with every day.

Experiencing an educational vacation in Granada is synonymous with discovering a charming Andalusian city. A place where cultures intertwine, where history lives in every corner, and where Spanish is heard in its most vibrant and authentic form—all this and much more is Granada.

For students looking to make the most of their educational vacations in Granada by learning Spanish intensively, this city is the perfect choice: affordable, vibrant, and deeply immersive. Language learning doesn't end in the classroom, but continues in the squares, markets, tapas bars, and during the exciting local festivals. A place not to be missed!

Still have questions? We'll give you the information you need to make your decision about an educational vacation in Granada.

University City and Andalusian accent

Granada has something that few European cities can offer: the atmosphere of a university city framed by centuries of history. With more than 60,000 students and one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, learning Spanish in Granada is an adventure.

The city is made for learning, sharing, and connecting. Here, the Spanish spoken is clear, melodious, and has an Andalusian accent, giving students the opportunity to develop a keener ear for the variations of the language.

Our Spanish school is officially recognized as an educational vacation in Granada. That's why we offer Spanish intensive courses (between 15 and 30 hours per week) that are tailored to all levels and needs. Classes are dynamic and participatory, with a strong focus on real communication and interaction.

Educational vacations in Granada beyond the classroom

What really sets Granada apart as a perfect educational destination is the opportunity to experience the language outside the classroom. Here are some ways students can reinforce their learning naturally during their stay:

• Tapas like a local. Granada is famous for its tradition of free tapas with every drink. This custom creates daily opportunities to chat in local bars, meet new people, and practice the language in a relaxed setting.
• Shared apartments or host families. Accommodation is very important, which is why we have several options: local families, residence, or shared apartment. Choose the one that best suits your needs, goals, and budget.
• Cultural activities. Sign up for as many tours and activities as you can, from visiting the Alhambra to walking tours of the Albaicín, cooking classes, or flamenco workshops. Learning vocabulary becomes easier when it is associated with real-life experiences.

Why choose an educational vacation in Granada?

Apart from its obvious beauty and tradition, Granada offers concrete advantages for those seeking an intensive and transformative educational experience. Here are some reasons to choose an educational vacation in Granada:

1. Ideal size. It is not a large metropolis like Madrid or Barcelona, but it is not a small town either. You can get around almost the entire city on foot, which makes it easy to integrate and reduces stress.
2. Affordable cost of living. Compared to other Spanish cities such as Madrid or Valencia, living in Granada is cheaper. This allows you to extend your stay or enjoy more activities without spending too much.
3. Safety and quality of life. Granada is a quiet city, well connected and with a relaxed lifestyle that contributes to the general well-being of students.
4. Lively culture and youthful atmosphere. As a university city, there is always a student presence, which creates an international and open atmosphere. There are always events, concerts, exhibitions, and social gatherings where you can practice your Spanish.
5. Cultural immersion. Granada offers a unique immersion in Andalusian heritage, a historical and cultural legacy that you won't find in any other city.

What to see during your educational vacations in Granada?

Every walk through Granada is a lesson in history, art, and cultural coexistence. Here are some places you can't miss during your educational vacation stay in Granada:

The Alhambra

This Nasrid palace is an architectural gem and one of the most visited monuments in Europe. Stroll through its courtyards, gardens, and towers while listening to its history. It's an experience that no textbook can match.

The Albaicín

This Moorish neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and white houses, offers spectacular views of the Alhambra and the Granada sunset. Getting lost in its narrow streets is like traveling back in time.

Sacromonte

Famous for its cave houses and flamenco tradition, Sacromonte offers live shows that connect with the soul of Andalusia. An excellent opportunity to learn about music, rhythm, and passion in Spanish.

The Cathedral and the Royal Chapel

These Renaissance monuments house the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs and form part of the historic heart of the city. They are surrounded by shopping streets and markets such as the Alcaicería, ideal for practicing everyday vocabulary.

Parks and viewpoints

The Mirador de San Nicolás, the Carmen de los Mártires, and the walks along the Genil River offer green spaces to relax, study outdoors, or simply marvel at the surroundings.

Local festivities during your educational vacations in Granada

One of the great attractions of taking an educational vacation in Granada is the opportunity to experience traditional festivals that connect you with Andalusian culture in its purest form. These celebrations offer authentic experiences where you can practice the language and learn about the local identity:

Holy Week is celebrated between March and April, depending on the year, and is one of the most intense religious celebrations in Spain. The processions in Granada combine devotion, music, and sacred art.

 Students can attend the events, participate in parallel cultural activities, and get to know an essential part of the Spanish soul.

The International Music and Dance Festival takes place in June/July. This event attracts artists from all over the world, with concerts held in unique venues such as the gardens of the Alhambra. It's a way to enjoy classical music, flamenco, and contemporary dance in a magical setting.

Every May 3, the city's squares are decorated with colorful floral crosses, accompanied by music, food, and traditional costumes. The Cruces de Mayo celebration is joyful and accessible, ideal for practicing the language with locals in an informal setting.

In November, the Granada Jazz Festival takes place. This is one of the oldest jazz festivals in Europe. The city is filled with concerts and jam sessions, perfect for those looking for different cultural experiences.

The Corpus Christi festivities take place in mid-June and are Granada's biggest celebration. You'll see parades, street stalls, flamenco, and popular traditions. If your educational vacations in Granada coincide with these dates, you'll have a direct window into Andalusian popular culture.

At the end of your educational vacations in Granada, you will take away much more than just a high level of Spanish. You will have gained confidence in communicating in another language, explored an incomparable cultural heritage, and lived everyday life like a local. It is a transformative experience that can be felt in every corner of the city. Granada is a place where the past and present coexist and the perfect place to learn the language.

Knowing the capitals of Spanish-speaking countries is not only useful for your Spanish studies, but also gives you a deeper understanding of the cultural and geographic diversity of these places. Expand your knowledge of Spanish and locate each country on the map to discover a very diverse culture.

If you prefer to read this article in Spanish, you can click here to switch languages.

Capital cities of Spain

As you may know, Spain is the birthplace of the Spanish language, as it is where the language originated. The capital of Spain is Madrid, known for its rich history, art, and lively nightlife.

Although Spain is characterized by its well-known cities spread throughout the country and its unique culture. The country is made up of 17 Autonomous Communities, and each has its own capital. Here is the list of the 17 Autonomous Communities and their respective Spanish capitals:

• Andalusia. Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Jaen, Huelva, Malaga, and Seville. Seville is the capital.
• Aragon. Huesca, Zaragoza, and Teruel. Zaragoza is the capital.
• Asturias. Its capital is Oviedo.
• Balearic Islands. It is an archipelago formed by 5 islands: Menorca, Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera, and Cabrera. The capital is Palma de Mallorca.
• Canary Islands. It is made up of 7 islands and divided into two provinces. The province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife with: Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. And the province of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. The capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
• Cantabria. Its capital is Santander.
• Castilla La Mancha. Toledo, Ciudad Real, Guadalajara, Cuenca and Albacete. Its capital is Toledo.
• Castilla y León. León, Palencia, Salamanca, Burgos, Zamora, Valladolid, Soria, Segovia, and Avila. This Autonomous Community does not have a capital city, but the seat of government is in Valladolid.
• Catalonia. Barcelona, Tarragona, Lerida, and Gerona. The capital is Barcelona.
• Valencian Community. Castellon, Valencia, and Alicante. The capital is Valencia.
• Extremadura. Caceres and Badajoz; the capital is Mérida.
• Galicia. La Coruña, Lugo, Ourense and Pontevedra. Its capital is Santiago de Compostela.
• La Rioja. Its capital is Logroño.
• Madrid is the capital of Spain.
• Region of Murcia. Its capital is Murcia.
• Navarra. The name of its capital is Pamplona.
• Basque Country. Alava, Guipuzcoa and Vizcaya. It has no official capital, such as Castilla y León.

Spain also has two autonomous cities, Ceuta and Melilla, located on the African continent.

Countries on the American continent

In addition to Spain, other countries in the world also have Spanish as their official language. These places are mainly located in South and Central America, although there is also one in Africa. Here is the complete list of the 20 Spanish-speaking countries and their respective capitals:

North America:

• Mexico – Ciudad de Mexico

Caribbean:

• Cuba – La Habana
• Dominican Republic - Santo Domingo
• Puerto Rico – San Juan

Central America:

• Costa Rica – San Jose
• El Salvador – San Salvador
• Guatemala – Ciudad de Guatemala
• Honduras – Tegucigalpa
• Nicaragua – Managua
• Panamá – Ciudad de Panamá

South America:

• Argentina – Buenos Aires
• Bolivia – La Paz, Sucre
• Chile – Santiago
• Colombia – Bogotá
• Ecuador – Quito
• Paraguay – Asunción
• Peru – Lima
• Uruguay – Montevideo
• Venezuela – Caracas

Africa

• Equatorial Guinea - Malabo

In this complete list of Spanish-speaking countries and their capitals, how many Spanish capitals did you already know; did you locate all the countries on the map? Tell us about it.

Each country has its own history, culture and beauty. By getting to know the Spanish capitals, you not only expand your Spanish vocabulary, but you also connect with the cultural richness of these places. Don't you feel like visiting one of them?

So, if you want to continue expanding your knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world, don't hesitate to continue learning Spanish. At don Quijote you can choose the Spanish course that best suits your needs, your level and your age. We have schools in 11 different destinations in Spain and in 9 different countries in Latin America.

Ask us about your doubts and we will help you choose the destination that best suits your needs so that learning Spanish will be a fascinating journey for you.

Summer temperatures in Spain can be suffocating, and the southern city of Granada is no exception. But don’t worry! At don Quijote we know all the tricks to combat the heat — and staying at home in front of the air conditioner doesn’t count, especially in a city like Granada, which is only an hour away from the beach and the mountains.

Reach this article in Spanish

Here are some practical tips:

La Costa Tropical

Okay, we’ll admit it: it’s not as comfortable as having the beach a 10-minute walk from your Spanish school, but in Granada it’ll be easy to find out why the nearby coast is called the Costa Tropical. Less than an hour away by car, the coastal town of Motril has two beaches to choose from, each with its own charm. Calahonda, a Blue Flag beach, is in the town itself (making it the perfect option if you’re taking the bus) and has lots of beachside restaurants and bars. The beach of La Joya is more out of the way, and to get to it you have to descend 200 steps to reach the bottom of the cliffs that protect it from massive crowds. We assure you, it’s worth the extra effort!

The small town of Salobreña is another good place to spend the day playing in the waves or sunbathing on the dark sand. After you walk up to the castle and enjoy the views, there’s nothing better than going for a swim at La Guardia beach, where you can also rent a kayak or enjoy the delicious pescadito frito (fried fish) this area is known for. If you like snorkeling or scuba diving, head to La Rijana beach — you need a car to get there, but when you see how clear the water is, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

Wait till sunset

After the sun goes down, Granadinos take to the streets and the city fills with life thanks to the cooler temperatures. Join them and enjoy the many tapas bars you’ll find downtown, from the high-quality tapas in Plaza de la Pescadería to the cheaper and more plentiful tapas of the university neighborhood. If you’re looking for something more special (and, why not, romantic), make your way to the upper part of the Albaicín neighborhood and sit at one of the terraces with views of the Alhambra, or walk along Paseo de los Tristes and enjoy the fresh air by the river. If you’re a flamenco fan, the caves of Sacromonte are well-insulated from the Granadan heat and cultivate the ideal atmosphere to experience the magic of the dance, song, and rhythms of the Spanish art.

The coolest hours of the night are also the ideal time to learn about the secrets of the city: you can book a nighttime visit to the Alhambra or tours through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Albaicín where the guide will tell you all sorts of legends and interesting facts about the city.

Run for the hills… or better yet, the mountains!

One thing that makes panoramic views of Granada so spectacular is the background — the peaks of the Sierra Nevada are truly spectacular. In the winter, they’re a popular destination for ski bums, while in the summer they’re a good place to enjoy temperatures a few degrees cooler. Take a walk around the Hoya de Pedraza Botanical Gardens, cross the hanging bridges over the gorge of Los Cahorros in Monachil, practice adventure sports, or take a relaxing dip in the pool in the center of Pradollano.

Sierra Nevada even has a summer festival: each year, Spanish singers and bands play a series of free concerts known as Sierra Nevada por Todo lo Alto. Savor the feeling of wearing a coat in the middle of summer while enjoying a mixture of music and nature.

A breath of fresh culture

When the heat is no match for your burning desire to get to know Granada better, the most sensible thing to do is seek out a place where you’ll be protected from the blistering rays of the sun. Luckily, Granada is bursting with ways to enjoy the culture and history without sweating buckets. The heat can’t penetrate the thick walls of the cathedral, so you’ll be free to enjoy the beauty of its chapels, including the famous Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs are buried. If you’re interested in more modern history, you can stop by the Huerta de San Vicente, the family house of poet Federico García Lorca, or the museum of Sacromonte, where you can take an up-close look at the special culture and lifestyle led by the people of these typical Granadan caves.

Another obvious option is to visit the Alhambra, with all its impressive palace rooms and refreshing patios. Take advantage of the season and see a different side of the Generalife Gardens by attending the annual summer festival celebrating Lorca and Granada: each performance is a fusion of flamenco and the special poetic world of the most universal Granadan, and the result is magical.

“Every curious traveler keeps Granada in his heart, even without having visited”. That’s what William Shakespeare had to say about this enchanting city.

That vision of the famous Alhambra, majestically poised on the hill, glowing in the evening light is something we all have in our mind’s eye, having been to Granada or not. And everyone should visit this treasure, but today we are going in search of some lesser known spots.

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Carmen de los Mártires

Our first one is a “secret” garden, a hidden treasure nestled in a neighboring hill near the Alhambra. A great place to take a break and cool off on a hot day. It’s called the Carmen de los Mártires, and because it’s tucked away there aren’t so many people. This two-level garden has amazing fountains and a beautiful house, open to the public. A perfect place to get away from the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. (You didn’t forget your camera, did you?)

The word Carmen is used in Granada to describe more than a garden. It’s a typical style of a granadina house, surrounded by walls around two meters high, which hide the pleasures of the garden with vegetables, trees, fountains…a paradise in the heart of the city.

For our next spot, let’s walk down the hill and along the river Darro to the Albaicín neighborhood.  Here we can look for another oft passed-by gem. It’s a convent, near the end of the street which has a sweet surprise for you. The sign on the door says “Dulces”, and they sure are a welcome pause in our search. Dulce means sweet, and these delicious, powdered sugar covered donut-like confections sure hit the spot. The intriguing part is that they are sold through a rotating door, so that the cloistered nuns who make and sell them can’t be seen by the public.

Rio Darro

Now that we have rested and refilled a bit, it’s time to search for our next hidden spot in the Albaicín. The Carmen de la Victoria (Cuesta del Chapiz, 9), even more secret than the last.

To get in, you must ring a bell by the door. Maintained by the University of Granada, you will find a wonderful garden with a spectacular view of the Alhambra that you can take in while having something to drink at the pleasant café.

Ok, we’ve hidden ourselves away in some fabulously relaxing gardens, so now it’s time to come out into the light. Since you are in the Albaicín, the best way to take advantage of being in this UNESCO World Heritage site, is to wander around its winding cobblestone streets, and just get lost! You will come across many beautiful sights, and glimpses of the Alhambra again through the buildings clinging to the hills. As you wind your way around these charming streets, you can start asking for the Mirador de San Cristóbal, an inspiring, lesser known lookout at the Alhambra across the valley from you.

Plaza Nueva

Hungry after all that walking? What isn’t a secret in Granada is that the tapas are free with your drink almost everywhere! And one of the best places for that, also a non-secret, is the area around the Plaza Nueva and Elvira Street. Your legs will be happy to know it’s downhill from the Mirador de San Cristóbal.

And as you sit in one of the bars or terraces, now bustling with people, savoring the tapas and the busy atmosphere, you’ll look back at the varied experiences you’ve had in Granada, and keep them in your heart, as Shakespeare said…with the advantage that now you have been there.

All cities have their charm. Granada has its own, and that of all the others. That’s what the poet Antonio Machado said, but, is there any another city in the world in which the same thing happens? We think so: Guanajuato.

Both cities share a spirit, an atmosphere that unites them. In Granada and Guanajuato, you will find narrow cobbled streets, picturesque architecture, lots of history ... and even a university environment! Ideal if you want to learn Spanish.

If in Granada a palace, La Alhambra, dominates the horizon; in Guanajuato it’s the Basilica de Nuestra Señora. A detail that also links this Mexican basilica to the Spanish city is that inside it is a sculpture of the Virgin brought from Granada in 1577!

If we go beyond history and focus on legend, a curious detail stands out. Both cities have a street named after a kiss, the Calle del Beso. While in Guanajuato it pays homage to a tragic love story, in Granada the legend tells us of a young deceased woman who is resurrected by her mother’s kiss. The important thing is that you can walk through a colorful, traditional and romantic street.

And after some walking, one begins to have an appetite. You already know the good dishes of the Spanish city, well the Mexican one does not lag far behind: its gastronomy is one of the most delicious in the country. Typical dishes of tamales, chalupas, enchiladas, empanadas… but made with such care and pampering, like good home cooking, that they are leagues beyond the fast food taco restaurant fare. And best of all, you will find these delicacies at good prices.

Perhaps the reason Guanajuato is one of the cheapest cities to live in is because, like Granada, it’s a university city. Half of the Guanajuato population is under 30 years old, which also means that there are numerous entertainment options. Who knows better that a student how to have fun on a modest budget? A movie ticket costs 60 MXN (not quite 3€), a beer 30 MXN (1.4€), a refreshment 12 MXN (less than € 0.60), a dinner in a restaurant 150 MXN (almost 8€) ... You can enjoy and have fun without scaring your wallet!

And if you want to tour spots full of history in Guanajuato, just like Granada, it’s full of them. If the Spanish city has the Nasrid legacy, medieval Christian, the Renaissance ... in Guanajuato you will see prehispanic constructions like Cañada de la Virgen or Peralta; and inside the city you will be surrounded by monuments and baroque buildings such as the San Diego Temple or the Basilica itself; Colonial style, as in the Plaza del Baratillo; Neoclassical style, like the Juárez theater ... It should not surprise you that this beautiful city has been declared a "World Heritage Site".

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN ...

The Spanish sporting calendar: Top Ten Annual Events

Here's our top ten annual sporting events in Spain, a full calendar of sports action that we think may come in handy for anyone planning on being in Spain. These events could coincide with a weekend city break, an interrailing traveling adventure, or an extensive family holiday. Organized by date rather than preferential order, we therefore bring you Spain's Top Ten Annual Sporting Events... ready, steady, go!

If there's one sound associated with Spain, it's the dramatic melodies of flamenco. Read on and discover must-include spots for your flamenco tour in Spain.

1. Seville

If you're in Andalusia's vibrant capital city, you've got to go to Los Gallos. Located just two minutes from Murillo Gardens, this is one of Seville's most famous and prestigious tablaos (flamenco venues).

Flamenco lovers won't want to miss the wonderful exhibits displayed at the city's Museo del baile flamenco (Flamenco Dance Museum). You'll find it on the street that bears its name, right next to the Giralda and the Cathedral. Another Seville flamenco hotspot is Puerta de Triana, a performance hall on Castilla street in the legendary Triana neighborhood, famous as a hub for flamenco activity.

2. Madrid

Spain's capital seems to absorb the country's most exciting cultural traditions, and flamenco is no exception. The city offers some of the oldest and most intimate venues for catching flamenco action.

The Corral de la Morería, included in The Michelin Guide and centrally located right next to the Plaza Mayor (on calle Morería), is one of Madrid's most historic tablaos. The famous Café de chinita sits in Madrid's historic district, between the Palacio Real de Madrid (the Royal Palace of Madrid) and the Gran Vía. Finally, the Corral de la Pacheca, near the Plaza de Castilla, rounds out a golden triangle of cante jondo (deep song).

3. Cordoba

Heading through the historical Jewish quarter, you'll find El Cardenal, where flamenco performers offer spectacular entertainment to audiences dining on local cuisine in an open patio.

On the back side of the Plaza de la Corredera, La Bulería is another essential flamenco house, along with Rincón del cante at the Plaza de las Tendillas.

4. Granada

Visitors are strongly encouraged to visit the Camino del Sacromonte to see the Cueva de María la Canastera (the Cave of María la Canastera) and experience joyful cheer accompanied by song, dance, and hypnotic hand clapping.

In the historic Arab district of Albaicín, Peña la Platería is Granada's most vibrant flamenco tablao, a place that's decidedly not designed for tourists, which always guarantees an authentic experience.

5. Cadiz

The lively cheer of this coastal city will invite you to lose your way in the old quarter, where the smooth sounds of guitar strumming and passionate singing guide you to La Cava, next to the Plaza de España. Here, you'll also find the Peña Flamenca de Enrique el Mellizo, named after one of Cadiz´s most historic and celebrated musical figures. This is where seasoned flamenco masters and new-comers alike offer memorable performances for the enjoyment of visitors as they savor the delicious
flavors of Cadiz cuisine.

6. Jerez de la Frontera

Considered by many as the home of the cante jondo, this is one of the world's most influential flamenco centers. Back dropped by elegant horses and the robust aromas of sherry wine, the city offers emblematic flamenco performance halls such as Peña la Bulería in the populated neighborhood of San Miguel, next to the Ermita de San Telmo. The sense of humor that characterizes the people of Cadiz is recalled in the name of another popular Jerez tablao: El lagá del Tío Parrilla (located just across from the Museum of Archeology), which offers the most spectacular dance shows imaginable.

7. Malaga

The Peña Juan Breva tablao sits huddled by the foot of the Gibralfaro Mountain, where it is cooed by the city's unique traditional melodies.

Its stage has witnessed some of the greatest flamenco performances ever. If you'd like to not only observe, but also participate in this high passion art form, you can always head to the Liceo Flamenco, between the Cathedral and Gibralfaro Castle, where you can visit the flamenco museum, taste wines from Malaga and take dance and guitar lessons.

8. Barcelona

As a city that has historically received large amounts of people emigrating from Andalusia, Catalonia's capital is home to some of flamenco's most acclaimed artists. Right downtown on the Rambla, opposite the Teatre del Liceu (the cathedral of classical and opera music, you'll find the Tablao Flamenco Cordobés. Crossing the street you come across La Traviata a Sara Baras.

The legacy of Carmen Amaya, perhaps the greatest flamenco dancer in history, lives on at El Tablao de Carmen, located in the well-known Poble espanyol, on Montjuic.

9. Jaen

The Plaza Coca de la Piñera, next to the library, puts on a surprising program of flamenco shows nearly all year round.

The Peña el Cabrelillo, just behind town hall, is one of Andalusia's longest standing flamenco institutions, a place full of love, faithfulness and a passionate interest to safe guard el cante in its purest form. In the city of Ubeda, the Tablao casa-museo andalusí, next to the Parador, offers the unique opportunity to enjoy flamenco in a gorgeous building on calle Narváez.

10. Murcia

This city-province-autonomous community (all in one) has a special flamenco tradition, as demonstrated in the Festival de Cante de las minas, celebrated in La Unión on the last week in March. At this yearly festival, Spain's best flamenco singer is awarded flamenco's equivalent to the Oscar, known as la lámpara minera. In the city of Murcia, the historic Teatro Romea has been home to the Cumbre Flamenca de Murcia for the last twenty years, a symposium that gathers the most respected singers, guitar players and flamenco experts for a three week period to discuss the finer points of the art and to offer special performances.

We hope that after this quick tour you decide to include some of these cities on your own tour of Spain, where the magic of flamenco awaits to inspire you in true Spanish style.

Photo thanks to: randomix, im elsewhere, Gabrilu, Placida, Dani, Johnny Shaw, Sofie, Migpascual, Dariorana, Keith Williamson

Gardens are places that are full of sentiment, spaces that offer visitors the chance to collect their thoughts and to dream. Many of the amazing gardens in Spain also offer scenic aesthetic expression, where beauty is not only created by planting plants and trees, but also by harmonizing and maintaining a balance of all the elements found in nature such as water and air. Let’s take a tour of some of Spain’s most historical and most impressive gardens. 

The Gardens of Generalife, The Alhambra, Granada:

The magical gardens of the Alhambra, full of legends and mysteries, may take the visitor’s mind to the sublime atmosphere described in the tales of The One Thousand and One Nights. Built on a rocky hill and far-off peak of the Alhambra, the combination of light and green here creates a wealth of decoration that includes the landscape that lies beyond the palace walls, visible from strategic viewpoints. Paco de Lucia has a song called “Generalife bajo la luna” that celebrates the garden’s beauty.     

El Buen Retiro, Madrid

Buen Retiro Park was designed in 1640 and opened to the public during the time of Charles III. Today, El Retiro has become a symbol of Spain's capital city. The land is occupied by 15,000 different types of plants and trees including the French Parterre, Versailles-style, and the Rose Garden; it is also home to numerous varieties of flowers. The monument to King Alfonso XII situated alongside the pond is one of Retiro Park’s must-see attractions.

Real Alcazar, Seville

The delightful Real Alcazar of Seville is one of Spain’s great palace complexes, and perhaps the oldest. It is the original representation of Spanish style and Islamic expression adapted to the Christian world. This once was the official residence of the Kings of Spain during their visits to Seville and the palace is still acknowledged as a royal residence. The palace features extraordinary gardens. The Garden of Mercury, which has a beautiful bronze fountain with a statue of Mercury, the Garden of the Ladies and the Garden of the Prince are the most admired.

Laberinto Horta, Barcelona

This is the oldest garden in Barcelona and a magnificent example of 18^th century neoclassical style. The garden is most known for its exciting maze of hedges, yet it also features other aspects such as intriguing statues, arbors, numerous fountains, and incredible greenness that make these gardens an unforgettable place to visit. An important scene from the movie “The Perfume” takes place here as well.