When you land in Seville, you’ll immediately feel the passion the locals have for their city. It can be seen in the glorious architecture that’s proudly displayed and the welcoming feel of just about everywhere you visit. It’s hard not to fall in love with Seville, with its sultry streets, Moorish elements and its passion for the very best in Spanish food.
Moorish and more
The city is renowned for boasting some of the most incredible buildings in Spain, a heady mixture that tell a story of the city’s rise and fall, conquering and reconquering. The iconic cathedral with a mighty bell tower overlooks the whole city. The Gothic architecture here is inspiring, and you can spend lots of time in the city just marvelling at this beautiful structure, vast in scale.
You’ll also need to have your camera ready for the Real Alcázar, a UNESCO-listed royal palace that will take your breath away. With origins that date back to the 10th century, this stunning building is the crown jewel of Seville, mixing Mudéjar and Christian elements. It was recently used as a setting for Game of Thrones, such is its beautifully preserved regality.
Join the dance
The spirit of Flamenco surges through the city – the noise leaking from bars and clubs after dark. This isn’t a show put on for tourists – it’s the heart and soul of Seville. You can stumble upon a dance in numerous social clubs and bars, or simply seek out Museo del Baile Flamenco, one of the city’s finest, overseen by Cristian Hoyos, local Flamenco legend.
The tour of tapas
If you’re nervous about elbowing your way to the front of the bar at one of the numerous standout tapas joints in the city, then by all means join one of the main tours run by local entrepreneurs. They’ll help you cut through the crowds and avoid the tourist traps, but half of the fun is in doing it yourself.
The range can be tempting, but try not to try have more than one or two ‘tapa’ at each stop – otherwise you’ll never venture far. Ask for the speciality of the house, whether that’s something hot or straight off the bar. Expect incredible hams, padron peppers, the freshest olives, tomatoes and anchovies and perhaps something a little more experimental.
Opt for dried tuna slices at Las Teresas, chin-dripping prawn sandwiches at La Fresquita and then aim for one of the branches of La Azotea. Each one has its own menu, but you’ll find classics in common – including hake crusted with baby shrimp in a pepperoncini mayonnaise. Even if it’s the end of a long day’s sightseeing, a plate of jamon and a slice of manchego can be more than enough for a truly memorable meal in the heart of one of Europe’s greatest cities.
With car hire in Seville, this city is yours for the taking, a gastronomic and architectural classic that you’ll be desperate to return to.
