Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, Spain, Seville is a captivating tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. Its not a large city by any means; a few days or a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the stunning architecture, flavourful cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Anyone’s first stop should be the iconic Plaza de España, a breathtaking architectural wonder that captures the essence of Seville’s grandeur. Adjacent to the (equally stunning) Parque de María Luisa, the Plaza is a semicircular esplanade adorned with ornate bridges and a medley of hand-crafted ceramic tiled alcoves (or azulejos) representing each Spanish province.
Expect to see buskers putting on traditional Flamenco dances for tourists, musicians playing acoustic versions of popular pop songs up top the steps inside the entryways of the Plaza, and the odd horse and carriage ride around the fountain.
The real magic of the plaza, though, is its Renaissance Revival grandeur.
Escape the heat and take in some Spanish art in one of the many museums and cathedrals scattered around the city. Check out Museo de Bellas Artes, Catedral de Sevilla, Setas de Sevilla, and the gardens of the Royal Alcázar.
The streets are a wonder. Spend your days wandering the winding, cobblestoned roads, looking up at the Spanish balconies covered in cacti, peeking through gates to stunning fountains and marvelling at the ancient doors, all seeming like a portal to another time.
The food of Seville is divine; inventive, international, and reasonably priced. Tiny, hidden restaurants boast incredible tapas, Spanish meats and cheeses, pâtés, melt-in-your-mouth octopus and ice cold Sangria.
A few to check out: El Pinton | The Second Room | Torres y Garcia | Barrabas Tapas (lunch) | Pelayo Bar
Above all else, enjoy the Sevillian way of life: beat the heat with a mid-afternoon dip in a rooftop pool or a little siesta, and while the evenings over a drink and a shared plate. Absolutely see a flamenco show – the Museo del Baile Flamenco does an authentic version in a stunning venue.
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