Seville is Andalusia’s capital and Spain’s fourth-largest city with a magnificent old town that boasts no less than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
This wonderful city has so much to offer visitors – I visited by train a month ago, and the food was divine, the architecture simply spectacular, and whilst the climate might be too hot for some, I couldn’t get enough of it! Here’s why I think everyone should visit this truly beautiful city at least once in their lifetime…
1. The beautiful Plaza de España
While there are so many truly beautiful architectural attractions in Seville, if I could pick one place where you can relax and just take in the beauty of the city, it would be the fabulous Plaza de España!
The square, which in English is known as ‘Spain Square,’ can be found in the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa, which was built in 1928. In my opinion, what makes the square special is the mix of spectacular Renaissance and Moorish architecture. Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier designed the park, and I thought it was the perfect place to go to get away from the crowds in a bustling city.
Anibal Gonzalez designed it, and he managed to combine 1920s Art Deco and mock Mudejar and Neo-Mudejar styles. The bridges crossing the moat represent the four ancient kingdoms of Spain, and when here, I promise you’ll be in awe at the vibrant colours, architecture and peace of the square!
2. The magnificent Alcázar of Seville
I personally think Seville’s historical centre is extremely special! Okay, it’s easy to argue that most historical centres are unique, but I can almost guarantee this will blow your mind! While there are numerous buildings to be seen in Seville’s historical centre, two incredible buildings that can’t be ignored are the Alcázar of Seville and Seville Cathedral.
The Alcázar of Seville, which is Seville’s Royal Palace, has seen an increase in tourism after it was used as a location for Game of Thrones in the fifth season, but this is not just a place for ‘Thronies’. Moorish Muslim kings originally developed this incredible piece of architecture. In 1987, it was registered by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
As I wandered around the palace, I was enchanted by its design and patterns and also by its tranquil and elegant vibe!
3. The modern Metropol Parasol
In my opinion, the one modern sculpture that can’t be missed in Seville is the Metropol Parasol – known to locals as ‘The Mushroom’ it is famous for being the largest wooden structure in Europe. Generally, there isn’t a large queue for this one but if there is one I would just say don’t worry as it moves quickly.
It’s cheap to get in and get a free drink at the top of the café. Walking around the super cool structure, you will be treated to wonderful city views. I loved the 360-degree view of the beautiful city!
After enjoying the views, I suggest heading downstairs to Cerveceria la Surena for an ice-cold bucket of beer, which costs around five euros.
4. The food and drink (of course)!
Along with Seville’s balmy climate, the city is famous for its food, and I loved that every bar I visited offered a different tapas! I would highly recommend visiting the famous El Rinconcillo Bar, which dates back to 1670 and is believed to be Seville’s oldest tapas bar.
Another popular location is Eslava, which can be found on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River and has a restaurant and tapas bar.
I would also suggest paying a visit to ConTenedor, an upmarket restaurant with fresh produce purchased from the local market—the daily menu depends on what’s available. However, I would just say this is one for restaurant lovers as opposed to someone looking for tapas.
5. The nightlife
Spain is famous for fun nights out, and Seville won’t disappoint you, I promise! If you have the stamina and energy, you can party all night long! I would recommend Alameda de Hercules as a great place to party. There are lots of bars as well as some small clubs, and it is the place to go if you are looking for a late night.
I think the most picturesque place to enjoy a drink is in Calle Betis, where you can enjoy one of the many bars, sit alongside the water on one of the outdoor tables, and enjoy some of the city’s best views. If you are interested in mixing with international travellers then I would suggest Alfalfa, it’s where the international students tend to hang around.
Of course, if you’re on the hunt for something traditional, I think Triana makes the perfect stop. It’s very famous for flamenco dancing (which the locals are hugely passionate about!).. There are various bars where you can watch a show, but I thought Casa Anselma stood out!
6. It’s easy to get to!
I love that Seville is very well connected to Spain’s capital, surrounding cities, and major European cities, including London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, and Rome.
We arrived in Seville from Madrid via RENFE’s high-speed train and left on a Ryanair flight to Stansted. There are approximately 17 trains a day going between Madrid and Seville each day, and the travel time is just over two and half hours.
Getting to and from the airport is very easy, with the EA Bus only costing a small number of Euros, and it goes to and from Plaza de Armas and stops at Santa Justa train station, Prado de San Sebastian bus station as the Torre del Oro.
If you want to get a taxi, then there’s no need to worry about getting overcharged as the set fee during the weekend. I think every city should do this!
7. The beautiful cathedral
In my opinion, Seville’s Cathedral is a prime example of the city’s interesting past. It was initially an Almohad Mosque from 1172-1248, before becoming a Christianised Mosque from 1248 and then Gothic Fabric.
Like the Alcázar, it was also classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987. It took the title of the largest cathedral in the world from Hagia Sophia and is now the third largest church based on floor space after St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida.
One of the reasons for its fame is that Christopher Columbus and his son Diego are buried in the church. I personally think everyone should visit when they stay in the city; it’s a very impressive place! I recommend going up the Giralda clock tower to enjoy the gorgeous city views!
