Seville Spain

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Seville, Spain

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a city that exudes passion, beauty, and excitement. From its stunning architecture to its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this incredible Spanish city.

Planning Your Trip

Before you arrive in Seville, here are some essential things to know:

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Seville is from March to May or September to November when the weather is mild and sunny. Avoid visiting during the peak tourist season (June to August) if you can.
  • Getting There: The nearest airport is Seville Airport (SVQ), which is well-connected to major European cities. You can also take a train or bus from nearby cities like Madrid, Granada, and Cordoba.
  • Language: While many Sevillians speak some English, it’s still useful to learn basic Spanish phrases before your trip.

Places to Visit

Seville is home to numerous historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. Here are the top places to visit:

Historical Landmarks

  • Cathedral of Seville (Giralda): A stunning Gothic cathedral that took over 100 years to complete.
  • Royal Alcázar Palace: A breathtaking palace built in the 14th century with Mudéjar architecture.
  • Archaeological Museum of Seville: Home to an impressive collection of Roman, Visigothic, and Moorish artifacts.

Cultural Attractions

  • Plaza de España: A beautiful park featuring stunning tile work and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Barrio Santa Cruz (Jewish Quarter): A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, picturesque courtyards, and historic buildings.
  • Flamenco Music and Dance: Experience the passion of flamenco music and dance at one of Seville’s many tablaos.

Natural Wonders

  • Guadalquivir River: Take a scenic boat ride or stroll along the riverbank for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Parque de María Luisa: A beautiful park featuring gardens, fountains, and walking trails.

Activities

Seville offers an array of activities to suit all interests:

Outdoor Activities

  • Walking Tours: Explore Seville’s historic neighborhoods on foot with a guided tour.
  • Bike Rentals: Rent a bike and ride along the Guadalquivir River or through the city streets.
  • Kayaking: Paddle down the river for a unique perspective of the city.

Cultural Experiences

  • Flamenco Show: Watch a live flamenco performance at one of Seville’s many tablaos.
  • Tapas Crawl: Sample local tapas and wines on a guided tour.
  • Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Sevillian dishes in a cooking class.

Where to Eat

Seville is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which reflects the city’s Moorish and Spanish heritage. Here are some top recommendations:

Traditional Tapas Bars

  • El Pinton: A cozy bar serving classic tapas and wines.
  • La Azotea: A rooftop bar with stunning views of the cathedral.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants

  • Eggs: A modern restaurant offering creative, farm-to-table cuisine.
  • El Qu Jet: An intimate dining room serving contemporary Andalusian dishes.

Where to Stay

Seville offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences:

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Alfonso XIII: A 5-star hotel in the heart of Seville, with elegant rooms and stunning gardens.
  • Hotel Doña Maria: A luxurious boutique hotel located in the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood.

Boutique Hostels

  • Hostal San Antonio: A charming hostel in the heart of Seville, offering cozy rooms and a warm atmosphere.
  • Hostal La Bohème: A quirky hostel featuring colorful decor and a lively atmosphere.

Transportation

Seville has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and taxis:

Walking

  • Walking Distance: Many popular attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Buses

  • City Bus: The city bus is an affordable and convenient way to get around Seville.
  • Tourist Bus: Take a guided tour of the city on a hop-on-hop-off tourist bus.

Trams

  • Tram Line 1: Connects the historic center with the surrounding neighborhoods.

Tips

Seville has some unique customs and traditions that are worth noting:

Respect for Local Traditions

  • Flamenco Music: Be respectful of flamenco music and dance, which is an integral part of Sevillian culture.
  • Tapas Etiquette: Tapas are meant to be shared with others, so be prepared to share your tapas with strangers.

Safety Precautions

  • Pickpocketing: Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the intense Spanish sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Miscellaneous

Seville is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year:

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

  • Processions: Witness stunning processions and ceremonies during Holy Week.
  • Music and Dance: Enjoy traditional music and dance performances during this special week.

Feria de Abril (April Fair)

  • Festival of Fairs: Experience a lively festival featuring music, food, and traditional clothing.
  • Nighttime Fun: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the fairgrounds at night.

Final Tips

Seville is a city that will leave you enchanted and wanting more. Here are some final tips to keep in mind:

Learn Some Spanish

  • Basic Phrases: Learn basic Spanish phrases like “gracias” (thank you), “por favor” (please), and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).

Be Open-Minded

  • Cultural Differences: Be respectful of cultural differences and traditions.
  • Try New Things: Be adventurous and try new foods, drinks, and activities.

Enjoy Yourself!

  • Relax and Have Fun: Seville is a city that will make you feel at ease. So, relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience!