Said to have been founded by Hercules, visiting Seville is anything but a labour. Situated in beautiful Andalucia, this is one of the most popular city destinations for Spanish and foreign tourists alike, and for good reason – the nightlife is wild and never stops; it has stunning attractions such as the Alcazar palace and the medieval cathedral; and it’s arguably the best place to come to get a taste of the triumvirate of Spanish stereotypes: flamenco, fiestas and bullfighting.
Things to see and do:
- The Alcazar – this palatial residence of Spanish kings was built after the Christian reconquest of Seville in the fourteenth century, and cannot fail to enchant with its fountains, gardens and ornate, Muslim-influenced architecture.
- The Cathedral – one of the largest in the world, Seville’s cathedral was built on the site of a 12th century mosque and is also home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
- Bullfighting – not for the faint-hearted nor less the animal-loving, but a magnificent cultural spectacle if you can stomach it; Seville is passionate about its corridas, and you can witness the passion first hand at the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza.
- Nightlife – El Centro is the best place to go for full-on tapas/sangria/flamenco partying, while a more laid-back feel can be found in the old Barrio de Santa Cruz district.
- Fiestas – the Feria de Abril takes place every April and is amongst the most hedonistic fiestas in Spain. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) parade is more solemn, but no less thrilling a spectacle.
Getting there:
Seville’s airport is 10km northeast of the city, and the EA bus shuttles travellers between it and the city’s main rail station. Car hire and taxi services are also available at the airport.
Location and weather:
Seville is in the south west of Spain, inland from the Costa de la Luz and the Costa del Sol, and close to the border with Portugal. The pleasant warmth of the spring makes it a good time to visit; in summer the heat can be stifling and the city overcrowded; while the winters, though mild, come with torrential showers.
Top tip:
Visiting the city in September in an even year will give you a chance to catch the Bienal de Flamenco – Spain’s biannual Flamenco festival |
