Useful Tips

Entering Spain:
Visitors from other European Union member countries may enter Spain using either a passport or their national identity document. Visitors from other countries must have a valid passport and a visa if required. Inquiries regarding visas can be directed to Spanish diplomatic representatives abroad.

More information about Visa here

Language:
Spanish is the main language spoken in Granada. English, and to a lesser extent French, are also fairly widely spoken. Tourist information, menus, etc. are nearly always available in English, French, and German.

General Safety Advice for Visitors:
Granada is a safe city, with almost no violent crime, and tourists and visitors can stroll around and sightsee at ease. However, as in any big city, some basic safety precautions should be observed. When walking around typical tourist spots, be especially vigilant of handbags and wallets.

Health Regulation:
No international immunization is needed when entering Spain. However, be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of all countries through which you may have to pass on your way to Spain.

Liability and Insurance:
The Congress organizers cannot accept liability for personal injuries, loss or damage to property belonging to Congress participants (or their accompanying persons), either during or as a result of the Congress. Please check the validity of your own insurance.

Banks:
Banks are open from 8:30h to 14:00h from Monday to Friday during the summer months.

Credit Cards:
Currency and Exchange: AII major international credit cards are accepted. Foreign currency and traveler’s checks can be exchanged in Spain at banks and foreign exchange offices. Cash-point machines accepting major international credit cards and charge cards are available at most banks. The Spanish currency is the Euro.

VAT:
There is a variable value added tax (VAT) of 10% to 21% applied to most items and services, but most prices you see will include it. When it is not included, it should be clearly indicated.

Shopping:
Normal trading hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 13:30 and 16:30 to 20:00; however, in the city center and shopping malls, many shops stay open all day from 10:00 to 21:00.

Duty Free:
There are no restrictions on visitors entering Spain with goods bought in another European Union member country, as long as they are for their own use and not to sell.

Public Transport and Car Rental:
Granada has a good, comprehensive public transport network, with special ten-trip and one, two or three-day tickets valid on bus, metro and local trains. Taxis are abundant and reasonably priced. Free parking is very limited in the city center and car parks are expensive, so car rental is only really recommended for excursions outside the city.

Taxis:
Taxis in Granada may be ordered by phone, picked up at authorized taxi stands, or flagged down in the street. Always check that the meter is running. Taxis must usually be paid in cash though some accept credit cards.

Tipping:
In restaurants, hotels, taxis, hairdressers and so on, a gratuity is not included in the price. Although optional, tips are readily accepted and a general guideline is between 5% and 10% of the bill, depending on the quality of the service. Hotel and airport porters will take, depending on the luggage you have, 1€ to 3€.