Seville is the capital of the Autonomous region of Andalucía the birthplace of flamenco and bullfighting home to over 700,000 people making it the fourth largest city in Spain after Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Situated on the River Guadalquivir Seville was first settled by the Phoenicians and Greeks who set up trading posts here, and was given the name Hispalis by the Romans under whom the city flourished producing two emperors for the Empire Trajan, and Hadrian who later built Britons most famous wall.
Seville soon became the capital of Al-Andalus after the capture of the city by the Moors in 712, and lasted until they were driven from Spain in 1248. The Golden age of Seville came soon after Columbus’s discovery of the Americas with many of the treasures brought back passing through the city. Today you will find a modern bustling city with the very fashion conscious Sevillistas trying to outshine one another with all the latest gear.
Where to stay
Corral del Rey Calle, Corral del Rey 12, Seville Province, 41004
Tel - +34954227116
The Corral del Rey is the perfect choice for your stay in Sevile this elegant boutique hotel is a 17th century Casa Palacio that has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Hidden away in the narrow backstreets of the old quarter this six room gem is in the very heart of the city only a five minute walk to the cathedral and other tourist attractions. Gaze out at the city from the hotels mirador while relaxing before dinner or a tour of all the tapas bars that Seville is renowned for.
Where to eat
Becerrita
Calle Recaredo | 9 Puerta Carmona, 41003 Seville, Spain
+34 954412057
A relatively inexpensive restaurant that has a feeling of luxury, the perfect spot for that quiet dinner enjoying authentic Andulucian food complimented by an extensive wine cellar.
When it comes to eating out in Seville it is all about the city’s famous tapas, and with so many bars to choose from where to go can become a problem, which is why we recommend going on a tapas tour with a local like Shawn Hennessey a food & travel writer who has lived in Seville for more than 20 years. Shawn knows all the best places to go that are not on the tourist trail.
What to see
The Alcazar is a medieval palace that blends an interesting mix of Moorish Islamic and Christian architectural styles.
The Plaza de Espana was designed by Anibal González for Latin American Expo of 1929 highlighting all the regions of Spain, and is a favorite spot for the locals to pose for wedding photographs.
Get lost in the narrow streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz while smelling the perfumed air full of the scent of jasmine, and orange blossom.
Climb the Giralda Tower originally built as a minaret for the Grand Mosque it was incorporated into a bell tower for the cathedral.
Seville Cathedral dating back to the 15th century claims to be the third largest Gothic Cathedral and the third largest church in the world after St. Peters in Rome, and the Our Lady Basilica of Aparecida in Brazil.
Getting to Seville
Most visitors to Seville arrive at the city’s small airport (SVQ) which is linked with flights to other cities in Spain with Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa. Seville is also serviced by low cost carriers Ryanair, Easyjet, and Air Berlin making it the perfect weekend escape for Northern Europeans. Located ten kilometres east of the city a taxi ride into the city Centre will cost around 22€. There is also an excellent bus service that leaves directly outside the arrival hall and costs 2.40€ one way or 4.20€ return. Follow this link to a map of the bus stops in the city Airport Bus. We hope you have a wonderful time while in Seville, and look forward to your visit.
For affordable accommodation in Spain visit Outlet4Spain. Image credits: michaelclarke and acme.
