Seville

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Seville

Seville, the capital city of Andalusia, is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast. With its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Seville has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, where to stay, things to know, transportation options, tips, and other interesting facts about this beautiful city.

Places to Visit

  1. Cathedral of Seville (Giralda) - This stunning cathedral is one of the most impressive sights in Seville. Built in 1402, it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and an imposing bell tower (La Giralda) that offers breathtaking views of the city.
    • Address: Calle de la Constitución, s/n, 41001 Sevilla
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 7am to 8pm (April to September), 7am to 6pm (October to March)
    • Entrance Fee: €9.50 (free for children under 18 years old and EU citizens aged 65+ with a disability card)
  2. Royal Alcázar of Seville - This medieval palace is a testament to Moorish architecture, featuring tranquil gardens, fountains, and intricate tilework.
    • Address: Patio de las Doncellas, s/n, 41001 Sevilla
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 9am to 7pm (April to September), 9am to 5pm (October to March)
    • Entrance Fee: €8.50 (free for children under 18 years old and EU citizens aged 65+ with a disability card)
  3. Plaza de España - This beautiful square is a must-visit attraction in Seville, featuring stunning tilework, lush gardens, and an impressive lake.
    • Address: Plaza de España, s/n, 41002 Sevilla
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 9am to 8pm (April to September), 9am to 6pm (October to March)
    • Entrance Fee: Free admission (€1 for parking)
  4. Guadalquivir River - Take a stroll along the picturesque riverbank, enjoy the views of the city, and hop on a boat tour to explore the river.
  5. Archaeological Museum of Seville - This museum showcases the city’s rich history, with exhibits on prehistoric, Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish cultures.
    • Address: Plaza de América, s/n, 41002 Sevilla
    • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm (April to October), 9am to 5pm (November to March)
    • Entrance Fee: €3.50 (free for children under 18 years old and EU citizens aged 65+ with a disability card)

Activities

  1. Take a stroll through the Santa Cruz neighborhood: This charming historic quarter is filled with narrow streets, picturesque plazas, and colorful buildings.
  2. Explore the charming markets: Visit the Mercado de Triana for fresh produce, local handicrafts, and street food.
  3. Enjoy a flamenco show: Experience the passionate music and dance of Andalusia at one of Seville’s many tablaos (flamenco bars).
  4. Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Sevillian dishes like paella, gazpacho, or fried fish in a local kitchen.
  5. Go cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels.

Where to Eat

  1. La Taberna del Alcázar: Savor traditional Andalusian cuisine with stunning views of the Alcázar palace.
    • Address: Calle de la Constitución, s/n, 41001 Sevilla
  2. El Pinton: Enjoy delicious seafood and tapas in a cozy atmosphere.
    • Address: Plaza del Pinton, s/n, 41001 Sevilla
  3. La Parrocha: Treat yourself to high-quality Spanish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
    • Address: Calle de San Fernando, 12, 41002 Sevilla
  4. El Rinconcillo: Experience the authentic taste of Seville at this historic tavern, serving traditional tapas and dishes.
    • Address: Calle del Duque de la Victoria, s/n, 41001 Sevilla

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Alfonso XIII: Enjoy luxurious accommodations in a beautiful Art Deco building with stunning views of the city.
  2. Hotel Emperador: Treat yourself to high-end hospitality and modern amenities.
  3. Casa 1800: Live like royalty at this restored 19th-century palace, now converted into a boutique hotel.
  4. Hostal Casa Santa Cruz: Experience cozy charm in this family-run hostel, located in the heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  2. Weather: Seville has a hot climate (April to October) and mild winters (November to March).
  3. Currency: The Euro is the local currency; you can exchange your money at banks or use ATMs.
  4. Tipping: A 5-10% tip is standard for good service in restaurants, bars, and taxis.

Transportation

  1. Walking: Seville is a walkable city; explore its charming streets on foot.
  2. Metro: The efficient Metro system connects the city with surrounding neighborhoods.
  3. Bus: Public buses (lines 34, 36, and 46) connect major attractions and districts.
  4. Taxi: Hail one of Seville’s iconic yellow cabs for a convenient ride.

Tips

  1. Book ahead: Reserve your accommodations, restaurant tables, and tourist attractions in advance to avoid peak-season crowds.
  2. Stay hydrated: Bring water or purchase it from local cafes to stay refreshed during hot summer days.
  3. Respect the city’s culture: Dress modestly when visiting churches and mosques; avoid loud noise and rowdy behavior.
  4. Enjoy the evening atmosphere: Experience Seville’s vibrant nightlife with tapas bars, flamenco performances, and cozy street corners.

Other Interesting Facts

  1. Seville’s famous oranges: The orange trees surrounding the city are a symbol of Seville’s prosperity; sample fresh juice or marmalade at local markets.
  2. Gipsy culture: Explore the fascinating history and traditions of Seville’s Gypsy community, which dates back to Roman times.
  3. Flamenco music: Discover the soulful rhythms and passionate melodies that define Andalusia’s musical heritage.
  4. La Semana Santa (Holy Week): Experience one of Spain’s most spectacular Easter celebrations with parades, processions, and festive atmosphere.

Getting Around

  1. Seville Tourist Card: Purchase a convenient card offering discounts on attractions, public transportation, and experiences.
  2. Walking tours: Join guided walking tours to explore hidden gems and discover the city’s rich history.
  3. Taxi services: Book in advance for airport transfers or local rides.

Safety

  1. Petty theft: Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  2. Scams: Be cautious of street vendors, overly friendly locals, or suspicious strangers offering deals.
  3. Weather-related incidents: Stay informed about extreme weather conditions like thunderstorms or heavy rain.

Emergency Services

  1. Police: Call 091 for emergency assistance or report crimes to the local police station (Calle de la Constitución).
  2. Medical Services: Visit a nearby hospital, such as the Hospital de la Caridad, in case of medical emergencies.
  3. Tourist information office: Consult the Tourist Information Office on Calle del Carmen for any questions or concerns.

Health and Medical

  1. Medical insurance: Ensure you have adequate health coverage before traveling to Spain.
  2. Basic first aid kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes.
  3. Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations for travelers visiting Andalusia.

Additional Tips

  1. Respect local customs: Follow the guidelines for dress code, noise levels, and cultural norms in churches, mosques, and other places of worship.
  2. Learn some basic Spanish phrases: Show respect by greeting locals with “hola” (hello) or asking questions using simple Spanish vocabulary.
  3. Be prepared for crowds: Expect large crowds during peak tourist season; plan your itinerary accordingly.

Recommended Accommodation

  1. Hotel Alfonso XIII
  2. Casa 1800
  3. Hostal Casa Santa Cruz
  4. Airbnb accommodations: Book cozy, centrally-located apartments or studios through Airbnb for a more immersive experience.

Getting to Seville

  1. Flights: Fly into Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and take a high-speed train (AVE) to Seville.
  2. Trains: Arrive in Seville’s Santa Justa Station using AVE or slower regional trains.
  3. Buses: Take the bus from major cities like Madrid, Valencia, or Málaga.

Budgeting for Your Trip

  1. Accommodation: Budget around €50-€150 per night for mid-range hotels and apartments.
  2. Food: Allocate €15-€30 per meal for local cuisine; snacks can cost around €5-€10.
  3. Transportation: Plan for €20-€40 per ride for taxis or public transportation.

Safety in Public Places

  1. Be mindful of your belongings: Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
  2. Avoid walking alone at night: Stay with a group or join a guided tour to ensure safety.
  3. Trust local authorities: Report suspicious activities or incidents to the police.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information for planning an unforgettable adventure in Seville, Spain!