A guide to Seville, Spain

Why not plan a trip to Seville in the South of Spain?

Here’s my guide on what to see, where to eat and drink as well as where to stay in this stunning city filled with historical charm, sensational food and lots to see and do.

What to see in Seville

The Cathedral

Seville is home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also the third-largest cathedral in the world, and will take your breath away with its grandeur. The construction of the Cathedral was completed in 1506, a century after it was started!

Its roots were actually moorish and it’s bell tower, the Giralda, was the old minaret that called Muslims in Seville to prayer five times a day.

The Real Alcázar

If the Real Alcázar looks familiar it’s because it was featured on the Game of Thrones TV series. This stunning Unesco-listed palace complex is a real treat to see and one not to miss!

It’s origins were a fort in the 10th century for the Cordoban governors of Seville but in the 11th century it was repurposed and rebuilt into a palace.

The interiors and exhibits are fascinating to see as well as the gorgeous courtyards and picturesque gardens.

The Plaza de España

Plaza de España actually took us by surprise as we had no idea what to expect. Located in the Parque de María Luisa, it was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, and is an eclectic blend of Baroque Revival, Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival styles of Spanish architecture.

Here you will find quirky fountains, mini-canals, Venetian-style bridges and a series of gaudy tile segments dedicated to each Spanish Provence with illustrations of maps and historical scenes. 

 The Metropol Parasol

Las Setas De Sevilla built in 2011 is one of Seville’s more modern and now very iconic landmarks. Designed as a giant sunshade by German architect Jürgen Mayer H, it’s the world’s largest wooden structure.

The best views are from the top where you can get panoramic views of the city as well as take some incredible photos.

Casa de Pilatos

At Casa de Pilatos, a mansion that dates to the late 15th century, you will find a mix of Mudéjar, Gothic and Renaissance decor. The interior walls are lined with beautiful tile work and the ceilings with interlaced beams.

Where to eat and drink in Seville

El Rinconcillo

Food tells the history of a city as much as architecture does and don’t leave Seville without eating at the most iconic and historic bar in Seville called El Rinconcillo. It dates back to 1670 and as you step inside you feel like you have entered a bygone era.

The best way to experience it is stood near the bar where your order will be written on the bar top in chalk.  The espinacas con garbanzos, a Sevillian speciality is a must try here, which is essentially spinach and chickpeas, and just delicious!

Mariatrifulca

This is a fabulous restaurant in Triana with incredible views. Book it well in advance so you can get a seat on the rooftop terrace to get lovely views of the Guadalquivir river. As we turned up spontaneously we got a great alfresco seat in lieu. 

La Terazza de EME

For a fabulous rooftop bar  to enjoy a sundowner with incredible views of Seville’s Cathedral, head to the  Hotel EME Catedral and take the lift up to its wonderful rooftop bar, La Terazza de EME.

Bar Americano

As you step inside the plush Bar Americano in the iconic Hotel Alfonso XIII, you will feel like you’ve walked into a quintessential Parisian cocktail bar circa 1925 with art deco vibes and stunning interiors.

There is an extensive list of wines and cocktails to choose from and they will happily make you a classic if you wish too. It is pricey but lush.

When exploring Triana, have lunch at Alfarería 21, the latest bar and restaurant concept by Paco and Carlos Arcas, located in an old Triana ceramic factory. 

Confitería La Campana

If you have a sweet tooth, a must visit is Confitería La Campana, a patisserie and cafe which is an institution located across the road from Las Setas De Sevilla. Try the yema (a soft, crumbly biscuit cake wrapped like a toffee), or a delicious nata (a custard cake).

Where to stay in Seville

HOTEL ALFONSO XIII

This place has been the benchmark for high-living Seville since 1929 and is considered one of the grandest of Spain’s grand hotels. With guests like ex US President Barack Obama, Brad Pitt to name a few, as well as being featured in the latest series of Netflix’s ‘The Crown,’ it also has an enviable location within walking distance to all of Seville’s main sights such as the cathedral, Real Alcázar, Barrio de Santa Cruz, Calle Sierpes and Triana.

You can read my review here: https://www.binnysfoodandtravel.com/2020/01/22/hotel-review-hotel-alfonso-xiii-a-luxury-collection-hotel/

If I’ve piqued my curiosity, check out some brilliant Travel Deals for a city break in Spain as well as other destinations.