Whatever the actual origins - unsavoury landlords or something else - everyone knows that when in Granada tapas is on the house. This is more than a free lunch: It's potentially a cheap date. If you find yourself in Granada with someone sweet to spoil, it's best just to follow your nose. Part of the joy is discovering new (to you) places, and if you hit on a dud you can always move on to the next tapa bar.

There are, however, five exceptions to this rule, which are worth seeking out sniffer-dog style.

If greasy and generous is what you're after, opt for Bodega la Antigualla (Calle Elvira, 2). Bodega la Antigualla is cheap and cheerful. The tapas comes in the form of sandwiches with fries and dips, making it a popular hangout with the city's students and leisure travellers on shoestring budgets. Bodega la Antigualla opens from 1pm - 5pm, closes for siesta, and reopens from 8pm until late.

For a more intimate, sleek setting, try the slightly tucked-away D'cuadros (Calle Pintor Lopez Mezquita, 14). Another hit with young locals, the tapas here are large and tasty. D'cuadros opens from 8pm until late.

Casa Julio (Calle Hermosa, 5) is another tucked-away treat. It's locally popular for its fish tapas. Casa Julio opens for lunch and again after 9pm. Never choose fish tapas on Mondays, since fishermen don't work Sundays. Most fish tapa bars, Casa Julio included, close on Mondays for this reason.

For loud tapas you can't beat La Flauta (Corner of Azacayas and Santa Paula), a tiny bar that dishes out small but impressive tapas. La Flauta opens for breakfast at 9am, and remains open between 2pm and 5pm.

Finally, Made in Italy (Calle Alhamar, 22) is a bar and pizzeria. It's the only Italian bar/restaurant in Granada keeping up with the local tradition of complementary tapas. This is the destination if you're after a free slice of Italy with your drinks. Made in Italy opens daily (except Tuesdays when they close all day) from midday to 5pm, and 7pm until late.

Whichever tapa bar you find yourself landing in, basic rules apply: Tapas are served with wine or beer orders (rather than spirit or soft drink orders). It is, however, possible to enjoy free tapas without the alcohol, since a tapa is also served with a cerveza or vino sin alcohol (alcohol free beer and grape juice respectively). If you want to limit your alcohol intake you could try a tinto de verano (red wine and lightly sweetened soda).