Granada

Granada

Until 1492 Granada was the last Islamic bastion on the peninsula. In Albaicín, part of the city that is still in its original state, you can still feel the historical culture at work.
The traditions are very catholic: the parade and processions during Easter "Semana santa" belong to the most impressive in Spain, whilst the festival of the "Cruces" at the beginning of May is a combination of the celebration of religious art, and shameless youngsters letting off some steam. Of the 300 000 inhabitants living there today, 50 000 are students at the universities.
Granada (situated between 662 and 780 meters above sea level) is known for having cold winters and hot summers; if the weather is good, you can even choose between skiing in April in the Sierra Nevada or swimming Baden in the Mediterrean 70 km away. In the evening everyone gets together for Tapas - normally offered free of charge with a drink - and to enjoy the lively nightlife.