Sevilla
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Logistics
Getting There
Sevilla is located in Southern Spain and is a lovely Spanish city. Depending on your prior destination, it has a smaller airport providing some direct flights, but much more limited than the larger Spanish cities (Barcelona and Madrid). If visiting Sevilla with other Spanish cities, consider taking the train to or from when flights are inconvenient.
Getting Around
Since Sevilla is smaller, it is fairly easy to get around everywhere on foot. If you would like to see more of the city or get off your feet, rent bikes for an afternoon and take them along the river, through the park and around the town.
Accommodations
If you like being in close proximity to all the main attractions, stay near the cathedral as it is centrally located. If you prefer a quieter spot away from the hustle and bustle, consider staying right across the river in Triana or Los Remedios. If being close to busier shopping areas is important, then stay near Iglesia del Divino Salvador, which is more commercialized and busy. All locations mentioned still keep the city’s main attractions accessible by foot.
Things to do and see
Plaza de Espana
Gorgeous plaza built for the world’s fair when Seville hosted it. Visitors can rent boats and take them through the canal in this plaza (5 euros for ~35 minutes).
Maria Luisa Park
A very nice park to walk, run, or bike around in next to Plaza Espana
University of Seville
Stone building that was once a tobacco factory and now is the University of Seville
Alcazar
Royal palace in Spain encompassing a complex of buildings, gorgeous courtyards and gardens throughout the space. You can purchase tickets in advance or at the entrance and then walk around the Alcazar.
Cathedral and Giralda tower
Grand Cathedral and bell tower found in the city center. Visitors can climb the Giralda bell tower for a nice view of the city.
Flamenco Show
Flamenco is a Spanish music and dance style that is tied to the Andalucia region in Spain. When in Sevilla, go to a Flamenco show to get a true cultural experience. Casa de la Memoria is one small venue you can check out for a show. Reserve the show in advance, even if on the same day, to ensure you have a spot.
Rent Bikes
Bike rentals are very cheap, sometimes only a few euros per hours so change it up and see Sevilla on wheels. Keep in mind that the city center is not where you will want to bike as it can be more challenging to navigate around other people. Instead, look to take the bikes along the river or through the parks.
Torro del oro
Small tower near the river
Metropol Parasol
Large and modern wooden structure that you can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city
Mercado de Triana
Local market for groceries
River
Take a stroll along the river
Barrio Santa Cruz
Old town district
Triana
Vibrant and colorful neighborhood
Plaza de Toros
Bullfighting venue that can be visited with a reserved tour
Food and Drinks
Taberna Los Coloniales
Dinner
Seville
Excellent Spanish Tapas restaurant for a great value
Ovejas Negras
Dinner
Seville
Michelin restaurant with a nice atmosphere serving small Spanish plates
Mercado de Lonja del Barranco
Snacks
Seville
Glass building along the river with a variety of options for snacks or a quick lunch
Other Notes
Duration
A weekend or long weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend in Sevilla. If you have more time, consider staying longer and taking day trips to other areas in Southern Spain including Granada, Cadiz and Cordoba.
Rating
Compared to Madrid and Barcelona, the other major Spanish cities, Sevilla is smaller. You can feel the Spanish culture a lot more in Sevilla and the quaint city has a local charm to it. Sevilla is definitely worth a visit, and was my favorite of the Spanish cities. Southern Spain has so much to offer and the food is phenomenal.
Spanish Food
Be sure to enjoy the local Spanish food and drinks including
- Tapas – lots of small plates, perfect for sharing with a group. Some favorites include padron peppers, octopus galecian, tortilla (eggs & potato omellete), local goat cheeses, papas arrugadas (boiled potatoes served with sauces), fried calamary, among many others
- Paella – this Spanish rice dish is found a lot here, with different variations including seafood paella, meat and seafood paella, and vegetarian
- Sangria – Spanish wine cocktail