Cultural Activities

On your first full day in Granada, we'll help you navigate the city's main streets and central neighborhoods. This activity is designed to help you familiarize yourself with the city's layout and learn your route from your homestay to school before classes begin.

Discover Granada's rich history and diverse cultural tapestry on this immersive city tour. We'll wander through hidden plazas, navigate charming cobblestone streets, and ascend to breathtaking miradores, or viewpoints. The city center boasts impressive Islamic architecture, including La Madraza, the remnants of the old Muslim University, and the 14th-century Moorish marketplace, Corral del Carbón. Plaza Nueva, considered the heart of the city, is home to bustling tapas bars, cafés, and ice cream shops. Our journey continues along the picturesque Darro River on Paseo de los Tristes, and the lower Albaicín Moorish quarter.

Visit the historic Cathedral and Royal Chapel of Granada. The Royal Chapel is the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II. Their daughter, Joanna of Castile (Juana la Loca), and her husband Philip I (Felipe el Hermoso) are also interred here. The Chapel is built in the Gothic style. Adjacent to the Royal Chapel is the Cathedral of Granada, constructed atop the former Great Mosque. Begun in the 16th century, its construction spanned 181 years, resulting in a prime example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Cathedral houses significant works of art by masters such as El Greco, Jusepe de Ribera, and Alonso Cano.

The Albaicín, Europe's best-preserved Moorish quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating journey through history and architecture. We will delve into its rich past, exploring the intricate designs and unique character of its buildings. Discover the charm of the "carmenes," large mansions with secluded gardens that are iconic to this remarkable part of the city. We will meander our way through the labyrinthine streets to San Nicolás plaza, where we will be rewarded with impressive views of the Alhambra palace and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop.

Granada's historic city center is home to many exotic Arabic tea houses, known as "teterías." These intimate, dimly lit locales offer a bohemian experience with low tables and plush Arabic cushions. The air is filled with the aromas of exotic teas, brewed in the traditional Arabic style. Popular with Granada's large student population, both Spanish and foreign, these teterías are always bustling with young people. Be sure to savor the famous Moroccan mint tea, sweetened with honey, and indulge in exquisite Arab cakes.

In the evenings, the lively music of flamenco resonates from the hillside caves of Sacromonte. This neighborhood has traditionally been home to the gypsies and the unique art form that originated in Southern Spain. Enjoy an evening performance demonstrating the three forms of flamenco: Cante (the song), Baile (the dance), and Guitarra (guitar playing). The whitewashed and dimly lit caves of Sacromonte provide the ideal exotic venue for this passionate art form.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Granada's vibrant flamenco culture with an unforgettable dance class held within an authentic Gypsy cave in the historic Sacromonte neighborhood. Learn the passionate artistry of flamenco, from its intricate footwork to expressive hand movements, in a truly unique and atmospheric setting.

Design and paint your own plaster tile as you delve into the captivating art of traditional design and painting techniques, a rich heritage passed down by the Moors during the era of Arabic Spain. This hands-on experience offers a unique insight into the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that define this historical craft.

The Granada Science Park offers a full afternoon of interactive fun with both temporary and permanent exhibits. As the first interactive center of its type in Southern Spain, it boasts a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The Biodome, a highlight of the park, is a fascinating living space that replicates diverse ecosystems, allowing you to discover the incredible biodiversity of our planet up close.

Design your own intricate marquetry piece and learn the art of traditional woodworking and inlay, a craft perfected by the Moors during the era of Arabic Spain.

Explore the historic Sacromonte neighborhood, known for its Gypsy cave houses. Delve into the culture during the Albaicín City Tour, and later, experience a Flamenco Performance Night with a live show in a Gypsy cave. Sacromonte is also known for its views of the Alhambra and Granada, making it a picturesque and significant destination.

The Realejo, once the Jewish quarter of Granada, is a neighborhood rich in history and artistic expression. As you wander its winding streets, you'll discover hidden plazas, bustling tapas restaurants, and a vibrant street art scene. Keep an eye out for the striking murals by El Niño de las Pinturas, whose evocative work adorns many walls, adding a contemporary layer to the area's ancient charm. This district is also steeped in local legends, making every corner a potential discovery.

The Carmen de los Mártires gardens offer a tranquil escape with stunning panoramic views of the Alhambra and Granada. This historic estate features a blend of French, English, and Nasrid-inspired gardens, complete with fountains and statues. As you wander through, you might spot peacocks roaming freely, adding to the picturesque setting. The gardens provide an unparalleled perspective of the iconic Alhambra palace, set against the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a perfect spot for peaceful reflection and enjoying Granada's natural beauty and history.

Embark on a leisurely walking tour that takes you around the ancient walls of the magnificent Alhambra palace and through its enchanting surrounding public gardens. This experience offers a different perspective of the iconic fortress and allows you to appreciate its grandeur from various angles, while also immersing yourself in the serene beauty of its meticulously manicured landscapes.

Embark on a captivating walk through the historic Albaicín neighborhood to San Miguel Alto, a journey that rewards you with some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Granada. This elevated viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the iconic Alhambra palace, majestically set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Enjoy a fun-filled bowling night, a great opportunity to socialize, practice your Spanish in a casual setting, and experience a popular local pastime. This activity promotes friendly competition and memorable moments with your fellow students.

Enjoy a delightful farewell dinner, a perfect opportunity to savor authentic Spanish cuisine and share memorable moments with your new friends. This special evening is designed to celebrate your journey, reflect on your experiences, and say goodbye in true Spanish style.

Learning to cook traditional dishes abroad is an excellent way to take a piece of your experience home with you. Granada is renowned for its Mediterranean cuisine, and you can Learn how to make typical dishes such as paella or Spanish tortilla.

Step back into the days of the Moors and experience an Arab Bath house (or Hammam). Water was sacred to the Moors and among other things the baths served as a means of purification. You will experience the relaxing hot and cold baths while enjoying the silence and calm the bath house provides.

Experience an exhilarating day at the Zipline & Adventure Park, where you can soar through eight thrilling ziplines and challenge yourself with various adventure courses. This activity is a great team-building activity with fantastic views.

The wild mountain landscapes of Southern Spain provide the perfect locale for hiking. The valleys that lead up to the high Sierra Nevada mountains are full of infinite hiking trails. Some of the most popular areas located just outside of Granada are Los Cahorros, the Sierra de Alfaguara and the high peaks accessible via the ski slopes. Los Cahorros is an area of breathtaking scenery and deep ravines cut by the Monachil River. Trekkers might cross suspension bridges and squeeze through tight canyon walls. The high sections of the trail are rugged and full of great views of the river gorge below. Other trails found in the mountain terrain of the Sierra Nevada wind through pine forests, green meadows, and past mountain streams. Arid and rugged landscapes stretch in the distance. You will have views of impressive peaks in the area such as La Veleta, El Mulhacén, and El Caballo, among others.

Granada boasts several unique museums. Among them is the personal art collection of Queen Isabella, housed within the Royal Cathedral. The Archaeological Museum features a compelling collection of artifacts from the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and other cultures that have inhabited Granada. Another significant attraction is the Manuel de Falla Museum, the former home of the celebrated Granadan composer. This house is notable for its beautiful gardens and artworks by Picasso and other renowned artists