Explore Seville: A City Full of Charm
Seville, with its amazing history and hugely varied architecture, invites you to discover its hidden corners. The city is compact, making it easy to walk almost anywhere. Moreover, the sunshine, exquisite food, and welcoming locals enhance its appeal.
Indulge in Sweet Delights
Ice-cream parlours, known as heladerías, are increasingly popular in sweltering Seville. Today, it’s about more than just a scoop of vanilla in a cone. Choose your polo (popsicle) from a delightful selection of fruit sorbets (such as raspberry), creamy flavors (like chocolate), or even cocktails (like Mojito). Add a dipping sauce and finish off with chopped nuts or sprinkles. You can enjoy your perfect concoction while wandering through the charming streets of Seville or relaxing on a bench in Plaza del Duque, just a few steps away from The Loco Polo store.
Experience the Magic of Spring
No doubt about it – spring is the best time to visit Seville. As the weather turns balmy and mild, the sun warms your face without overwhelming you. The air fills with the enchanting scent of orange blossoms. This is also the time when the city buzzes with preparations for Semana Santa. The Holy Week processions feature hundreds of life-size wooden statues carried throughout the city. Expect to see figures in medieval-looking hooded robes, reminiscent of characters from Harry Potter, accompanied by loud brass bands playing alongside the floats.
The emotional atmosphere becomes truly poignant as a devotee belts out a saeta, a spine-chilling lamentation sung to the Virgin Mary, from a balcony as she passes below. Shortly after Semana Santa, the mood shifts to jubilance, as locals don flamenco dresses, indulge in fried fish, and enjoy manzanilla sherry at the vibrant Feria de Abril. Sevillanos know how to celebrate, reveling from lunchtime until the small hours every day for an entire week.
Must-Visit Attractions
The Alcazar palace, famously featured in Game of Thrones, is a breathtaking microcosm of Seville’s history, showcasing Moorish patios, Mudéjar pools, Gothic arches, and Renaissance architecture. The gardens are enchanting, and if you find yourself in Seville during the summer, the outdoor night-time concerts are truly unmissable. Other must-see spots include Triana, where the city’s ceramic tiles are crafted. Don’t miss the market with its hanging legs of hams and a mini-flamenco theatre.
Additionally, take a stroll along Calle Pureza leading to Santa Ana, the oldest parish church in the city. Also notable is the Plaza de España, an iconic monument located in Maria Luisa Park. Built for the 1929 World’s Fair to welcome back the old colonies, its sweeping colonnade, tiled panels representing each province in Spain, and picturesque canal create a romantic and impressive atmosphere.
Top Dining Recommendations
For an extraordinary dining experience, Torres y Garcia stands out as a contemporary Andalucian restaurant in the Arenal district. With its airy ambiance defined by high ceilings and large windows, it offers a variety of dishes for both carnivores and vegetarians alike. Highlights include beef tongue and pig’s trotters for the meat lovers, while vegetarians can enjoy exquisite zucchini paired with papaya and a spicy Thai dressing or hearty wood-roasted cabbage with black garlic, cashew, and cumin. Best of all, knowledgeable sommelier Alex provides excellent wine pairings, including delightful sherries like Sanchez Romate Fino Perdido.
Advice for Visiting Santa Cruz
If you plan to explore the old Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz, home to narrow alleyways and charming shaded squares adorned with tiled benches, aim to go early in the day. Visiting too late will result in crowded streets, making navigation tricky, especially when some paths are only wide enough for one person.
A Hidden Gem to Discover
While the Alcazar is a must-visit, consider exploring the less crowded Palacio de las Dueñas. This beautiful 15th-century palace once belonged to the late Duquesa de Alba, a colorful aristocrat known for her numerous titles and fandom for Seville. This palace features a lovely garden of citrus trees and exquisite patios showcasing Mudejar stucco-work arches. Don’t miss the shop offering local honey, cookies, and olive oil branded “Casa de Alba,” alongside tasteful artisanal gifts.
Beat the Heat
During the sweltering summer months in Seville, the best places to cool off are by the river or on a rooftop terrace where a gentle breeze can be felt. As evening falls, explore the many rooftop bars. Notable mentions include The Corner House in the bohemian Alameda district, known for its relaxed atmosphere and outdoor heaters, making it appealing even in cooler months. Another favorite is Puravida, close to the iconic cathedral, where you can enjoy live flamenco fusion against the backdrop of the Giralda while sipping a cocktail.
