Seville – Perhaps my favourite city escape yet, warm weather, beautiful architecture, authentic Spanish food and still reasonably under-visited by tourists compared to the likes of Barcelona and Madrid.
In this blog, I will tell you all about my latest visit to Seville – the best things to do, the most authentic places to eat and my favourite places to stay in the city. By the end of this blog, I hope that you will be inspired to visit Seville and take away some useful tips and advice that will help you have the best time ever!
Key Information:
Before I break down my trip to Seville, let's cover some of the Key information and statistics about this beautiful city:
Where is Seville Located? - Seville is in southern Spain within the Andalucia region. Seville sits centrally within this region and is approximately 100km from the coast.
Where is the nearest Airport? - Seville has its own international airport - Aeropuerto de Sevilla-San Pablo which is located around 15 minutes' drive from the city centre. However, if you cannot find direct flights to Seville, your next nearest international airport is Malaga Airport, around 150km away.
What is the weather like in Seville? - The annual average temperature is 18.6 °C. This makes Seville one of the warmest cities in Europe and only surpassed by Almeria. Winters are very mild; January is the coldest month, with average highs of 15.9 °C and lows of 5.2 °C. In comparison, the summers are very warm; July has the higher average temperatures of 35.3 °C at its peak and 19.4 °C at its lowest. Every year 40°C is surpassed on several occasions.
How many tourists visit Seville? - Seville boasts average tourist numbers of 3 million visitors annually, compared to Barcelona which has around 9.6 million and Madrid which has around 9.2 million visitors.
My top 5 must see’s in Seville:
1.Flamenco – What better way to immerse yourself into Spanish culture than seeing an authentic Flamenco show? Originating from Andalucia, you are literally in the perfect place to see Flamenco and it is an absolutely must-see for me. There are many amazing places to watch Flamenco in the city, some of my favourites are: Casa De Flamenco, Casa de la Guitarra, Museo Del Baile Flamenco and T de Triana.
If you want to combine Flamenco with one of Seville’s most beautiful sites; the Plaza De Espana, you can watch a street performance everyday located within the monument. The performances seem to be on all through the day, there is no entry fee and no cost to watch. You do however have the option to leave a tip which I would highly recommend as the performers are amazing and it is such a stunning place to watch.
For a full in-depth Flamenco guide click here: https://www.seville-traveller.com/guide-flamenco-in-seville/
2. Plaza De Espana – As mentioned above, the Plaza De Espana is perhaps one of the most beautiful sites in Seville, located in the heart of the city the Plaza De Espana is a cultural meeting place built in a semicircular shape with beautifully painted mosaics and benches representing each province in Spain.
Plaza de España was built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, along with many of the pavilions you can see in and around the Parque Maria Luisa. It was built in a Renaissance/neo-Moorish style, featuring an imposing tower at either end, the towers are tall enough to be seen from across the city. In front of the building, following the curve of its façade, is a 500-meter canal crossed by four bridges and in the centre of it all is the Plaza itself.
Top tip: Rent one of the small boats for a romantic row around the canal, it is a great way to take in all that grandeur and enjoy a special moment with your travel companion.
3. Alcazar of Seville – Prepare to be transported back in time as you step into the enchanting world of the Alcazar of Seville. This stunning royal palace, originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings, is a masterpiece of Mudejar architecture, blending Islamic and Christian influences. Walking through its beautifully decorated rooms, lush gardens, and tranquil courtyards, you'll feel like you've entered a fairytale.
The Alcazar's highlights include the stunning Patio de las Doncellas, adorned with colourful tiles and delicate stucco work and the awe-inspiring Hall of Ambassadors, with its intricate wooden ceiling and magnificent golden dome. Don't miss the enchanting gardens, filled with fragrant orange trees, fountains, and hidden alcoves perfect for a moment of quiet reflection.
To make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided tour to gain insight into the history and significance of this architectural gem. Be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and savour the serenity of this magical place.
4. Cathedral and Giralda Tower – Towering over the historic centre of Seville, the Cathedral and Giralda Tower form an iconic silhouette against the Andalusian sky. The Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, is a testament to the city's wealth and power during the age of exploration.
Inside, marvel at the grandeur of its vast interior, adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows, ornate altarpieces, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Climb the Giralda Tower, originally built as a minaret during the Moorish period, for panoramic views of the cityscape below.
Want to know more about Seville Cathedral, find out more here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seville_Cathedral
5. Tapas Tour – No visit to Seville would be complete without indulging in the city's vibrant culinary scene. Embark on a tapas tour to discover the tantalizing flavours of Andalusian cuisine, from savoury Jamón Ibérico and creamy salmorejo to crispy fried fish and refreshing gazpacho.
Stroll through the winding streets of the historic centre, stopping at traditional taverns and modern gastro-bars to sample an array of mouthwatering dishes. Don't forget to pair your tapas with a glass of ice-cold Fino sherry or fruity sangria for the ultimate gastronomic experience.
During our trip to Seville we went on an amazing Tapas tour with Devour tours, I would highly recommend that you check them out if you are interested in participating in a culinary adventure during your visit: https://devourtours.com/?cnt=GB
My Top 5 Places To Eat:
Now that we've explored some of the must-see attractions in Seville, let's delve into the culinary delights this vibrant city has to offer. From traditional tapas to mouthwatering seafood dishes, Seville boasts a culinary scene that will tantalise your taste buds. Here are my top 5 picks for where to eat in Seville:
1. El Rinconcillo - Established in 1670, El Rinconcillo holds the title of the oldest tapas bar in Seville and stepping into this charming establishment feels like taking a journey back in time. Here, you'll find an array of classic Andalusian dishes served alongside ice-cold glasses of fino (dry sherry). Some must-try dishes include:
- Espinacas con Garbanzos: A quintessential Sevillian dish, featuring tender spinach cooked with chickpeas, garlic, and spices.
- Adobo: Succulent strips of marinated pork or fish, deep-fried to crispy perfection.
- Montadito de Pringá: A hearty sandwich filled with slow-cooked pork, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage).
2. Bar Comercio - Nestled in the lively district of Triana, Bar Comercio is a favourite among locals for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable tapas. This bustling bar is the perfect spot to savour authentic Andalusian flavours while rubbing shoulders with Sevillanos. Be sure to try:
- Gambas al Ajillo: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic-infused olive oil, a classic tapa bursting with flavour.
- Salmorejo: A creamy chilled soup made from ripe tomatoes, bread, olive oil, and garlic, garnished with diced hard-boiled eggs and jamón serrano.
- Espinacas con Garbanzos: Yes, it's so good, it's worth trying at multiple spots!
3. Bodeguita Romero - Tucked away in the picturesque streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, Bodeguita Romero is a beloved local haunt renowned for its warm hospitality and mouthwatering tapas. Step inside and prepare to be transported to tapas heaven. Don't miss out on:
- Carrillada de Cerdo: Slow-cooked pork cheeks bathed in a rich, savoury sauce, a true melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.
- Pavía de Bacalao: Crispy, golden-brown cod fritters served piping hot and accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Solomillo al Whisky: Tender medallions of pork loin flambeed in whiskey, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavours.
4. Bar Alfalfa - Located in the vibrant Alfalfa neighbourhood, Bar Alfalfa exudes rustic charm and offers an enticing array of traditional tapas with a modern twist. Whether you're craving seafood delights or indulgent meaty treats, this cozy bar has something for everyone. Indulge in:
- Pulpo a la Gallega: Tender octopus drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with paprika, and served atop a bed of creamy potatoes.
- Croquetas de Jamón: Irresistible croquettes filled with creamy béchamel and savoury jamón ibérico, fried to crispy perfection.
- Tortillitas de Camarones: Crispy shrimp fritters bursting with fresh seafood flavour, a true taste of the Mediterranean.
5. Casa Morales - Steeped in history and tradition, Casa Morales has been serving hungry patrons since 1850, making it a true Sevillian institution. This atmospheric bodega offers an extensive selection of wines and tapas, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Treat yourself to:
- Montadito de Pringá: Yes, it's that good! Casa Morales serves up their own delectable version of this hearty sandwich, brimming with flavour.
- Huevos a la Flamenca: A hearty dish featuring baked eggs nestled in a savoury tomato and vegetable stew, perfect for brunch or a leisurely lunch.
- Chicharrones de Cádiz: Crispy pork cracklings seasoned with sea salt and served with a side of tangy pickled peppers, a true Andalusian delicacy.
Top 5 Places to Stay in Seville:
After a day of exploring the enchanting streets of Seville, finding the perfect place to rest your head is essential. From boutique hotels brimming with charm to luxurious accommodations steeped in history, Seville offers a plethora of options to suit every traveller's taste. Here are my top 5 picks for where to stay in this captivating city:
1. Genteel Home Betis 67- Situated along the picturesque banks of the Guadalquivir River, Genteel Home Betis 67 boasts stunning views of the iconic Triana Bridge and the historic city skyline. This stylish apartment complex offers spacious and elegantly appointed accommodation, perfect for those seeking a home away from home in Seville. During my stay here, I particularly enjoyed sipping my morning coffee on the private terrace overlooking the river, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere before venturing out to explore the city, there is literally nothing better.
2. Hotel Lobby Room Sevilla - Nestled in the heart of Seville's vibrant city centre, Hotel Lobby Room Sevilla combines contemporary design with warm hospitality to create a truly memorable stay. The sleek and modern rooms are thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling streets outside. I appreciated the hotel's central location, which allowed for easy access to Seville's top attractions, as well as its proximity to charming cafes and tapas bars where I could unwind after a day of sightseeing. During my stay here we opted for a Suite Room which came with a private outdoor hot tub, during your stay, if you can stretch to this room it is 100% worth it.
3. Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb - Located in the historic district of Macarena, Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb offers a stylish and sophisticated retreat in the heart of Seville. The hotel's sleek and minimalist design aesthetic creates a sense of calm and tranquillity, providing the perfect oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. During my stay here, I was impressed by the hotel's rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of Seville's skyline and the nearby Basilica of La Macarena. It was the ideal spot to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun set over the city.
4. Catalonia Giralda - Situated just steps away from Seville's iconic Giralda Tower and the majestic Cathedral, Catalonia Giralda offers a prime location in the heart of the city's historic centre. This elegant hotel blends traditional Andalusian architecture with modern amenities, creating a charming and inviting atmosphere for guests. One of the highlights of my stay here was the hotel's rooftop pool, which provided a refreshing escape from the summer heat and offered breathtaking views of Seville's skyline. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing in that Seville heat.
5. Hotel Alfonso XIII - Steeped in history and luxury, Hotel Alfonso XIII epitomizes grandeur and sophistication in the heart of Seville. Since its opening in 1929 to host dignitaries attending the Ibero-American Exposition, this iconic hotel has been synonymous with elegance and refinement. During my stay here, I was captivated by the hotel's opulent decor, which pays homage to Andalusian craftsmanship and Moorish influences. From the lavish guest rooms to the exquisite dining options, every aspect of Hotel Alfonso XIII exudes timeless glamour and impeccable service.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Seville Adventure Awaits!
Seville truly is a gem of southern Spain, brimming with warmth, culture, and culinary delights waiting to be discovered. As you've journeyed through this blog, I hope you've been captivated by the allure of this enchanting city and inspired to plan your own Seville adventure. From the mesmerising rhythms of flamenco to the architectural wonders of Plaza de España, Seville offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave you spellbound.
As you explore the city's winding streets and historic landmarks, be sure to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Andalusian life, savouring every moment and indulging in the rich tapestry of flavours that define Sevillian cuisine. Whether you're wandering through the lanes of Barrio Santa Cruz or basking in the opulence of Hotel Alfonso XIII, each moment spent in Seville promises to be unforgettable.
So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of Andalusia. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, Seville welcomes you with open arms and promises an experience like no other. ¡Viva Sevilla!
James 😊