You must visit Seville. Old or young, rich or poor this is a city with something for everyone. We visited in early November, a little bit risky as the temperature is a unpredictable then but (as you can see from my photos) we were lucky, with warm weather. Had we been there a week earlier (the last week of September) we would have been hit with temperatures in the low 30s, unbelievable for September. If you’re looking for a late summer city break I think Seville is perfect.
I imagine that mid-summer is pretty busy in Seville, in November there were queues for all the big tourist spots but it was pleasant walking around the city, and we were able to get a table when we wanted, wherever we wanted. We were told that Seville has the largest ‘old town’ in Europe which is probably what makes it such a wonderful place to stroll around, it really is a beautiful city.
I arrived with a list as long as my arm of places to see and eat but this is a city best enjoyed when you go with the flow, trust me you won’t go wrong. We saw a lot of the famous sites as we wandered around, with the unexpected weather and incredible architecture, it was too lovely outside to hideaway inside. The Catedral is magnificent and huge (one of the largest Christian churches in Europe), we walked around it and then headed to the gardens of the Royal Alcázar, walking down narrow alleyways and through pretty courtyards on our way.
There are so many great places to eat and such good food in Seville. If you’re a foodie it’s worth spending the day wondering from one tapas restaurant to another, sharing a plate or two and a glass of local wine in each. It’s impossible to visit them all in a weekend but worth giving it a go. We had some help from Gerry from Pure Andalusia, an English ex-pat that has lived in the area for over a decade and is very knowledgable. She organises some amazing food tours throughout the region so if you’re looking for an expert look no further.
There is still so much for me to explore in Seville and I will definitely be returning before long. Here’s a list of my favourites from this trip.
Seville City Guide
ARTS & CULTURE
Catedral de Sevilla
It’s hard to miss this remarkable cathedral in the centre of Seville.
Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Royal Alcázar
A stunning Moorish palace, surrounded by lush gardens.
Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
SHOPPING
Rue 8
Stop in here for a jewellery.
Pl. de S. Francisco, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Castañer
The most famous espadrilles to come out of Spain.
Calle Sierpes, 38, 41001 Sevilla, Spain
Sombreros Maquedano
A small shop selling beautifully made traditional Spanish hats.
Calle Sierpes, 40, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
CAFÉS, BARS & RESTAURANTS
Mamarracha
An easy, laid-back place to enjoy a few plates of tapas.
Calle Hernando Colón, 1-3, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
No-Lugar
Great food in an amazing space with beautiful artwork that you can buy.
Calle Trajano, 16, 41002 Sevilla, Spain
Bolas
The most amazing ice cream, an essential stop on a warm evening stroll.
Cuesta del Rosario, 1, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
La Azotea
Some of the best tapas we had in Seville, and great wine too!
Calle Jesús del Gran Poder, 31, 41002 Sevilla, Spain
Mariatrifulca
Delicious food with an amazing view over the river and Puente de Triana.
Puente de Triana, esquina Plaza del Altozano, 41010 Sevilla, Spain
STAY
Corral del Rey
A luxury hotel, beautifully designed with a homely feel.
Calle Corral del Rey 12, 41004 Sevilla
Hotel Palacio de Villapanés
An elegantly restored palace that’s now a hotel.
Calle Santiago, 31, 41003 Sevilla