Mr & Mrs Smith

Beautiful hotel, but right in the city centre, so be warned – it can be a little noisy at night, especially if you are staying during Easter as we were, as the Spanish love a street procession into the wee small hours. Staff extremely helpful and friendly. Only small complaint is that the evening trip to a Flamenco dancing show was not fully explained and involved a detour and a walk, and then to get to the actual Flamenco club, we had to walk up steep and slippery cobbles – different footwear would have been chosen had we known. The rooms are beautiful and we were given upgrades as Mr & Mrs Smith clients. Bed was huge and super-comfy, with windows to three sides. Shower a little feeble sadly. Breakfasts were expensive (€20) but good. This is an ideal hotel if you want to be in the centre of Granada and within walking distance of the cathedral. It's a decent hike to the Alhambra but local taxis are inexpensive and easy to find. Make sure you visit the Arabic quarter: pretty, narrow streets and wonderful views across to the Alhambra, including when it is lit up at night. Aim for Plaza San Nicolas. Recommended.

Restaurants in Granada are a bit average because you can dine out on free tapas at all the bars. However, Al Sur de Granada, located at the very north end of Calle de Elvira, is a deli that offers the most amazing cheese and meat platters, coupled with a massive selection of top notch wines.

For a gem of a cafe/restaurant to while away the afternoon or evening, try Puerta Del Carmen. Situated in the Plaza del Carmen, fabulous cava, wine, beer and espresso are for your enjoyment, accompanied by tasty tapas great service and groovy music. You can eat here as a restaurant too, indoors or al fresco.