Sevilla, Spain

Sevilla is famous for its food, culture, traditions, architecture, and history. This is the birthplace of flamenco and is well-known for its historic churches, beautiful green gardens, palaces, and even the filming of Game of Thrones. You can enjoy the city by foot, boat, train, and horse and carriage. With so many wonderful places to see, it’s no wonder that Sevilla is one of the most visited cities in Spain.

Below are the best places to see, eat, and stay!

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Things to Do

Built where the first known food market in the city of Seville once stood now stands the largest wooden building in the world – Setas de Sevilla. Not only does the Viewpoint afford a beautiful 360° view of the city (and is lit up uniquely at night – a must see!), you can also visit the Encarnación Market, which features over 40 food and gift stalls. The Antiquarium, located on the bottom floor, you will find the largest archaeological site in Seville where remains from the 1st century are preserved.

Las Setas

When built in the 16th century, the Sevilla Cathedral was the world’s largest gothic building and still today is one of the world’s largest churches. You can see the tombs of several kings as well as Christopher Columbus. The Giralda is a prized icon of Seville and became the cathedral’s bell tower. You can climb this tower of 330ft to enjoy unobstructed views of the city. Located in the plaza around the Sevilla Cathedral and Royal Alcazar you will find several drivers of horse and carriage that will take you on a tour of Sevilla. I absolutely recommend taking this tour, as you will see some beautiful sites and receive a personal tour around the city.

Sevilla Cathedral and La Giralda

The Royal Alcazar is Europe’s oldest palace still currently in use - it is used for ceremonial events and hosting dignitaries by the Royal Family in Spain. The upper floors are used by the Patrimonio Nacional while doubling as the official residence of the Royal family. Game of Thrones was filmed in the expansive gardens and in some interior rooms of the palace. Walking around the palace is awe-inspiring, especially the tilework and beautiful ceilings, including in the Hall of Ambassadors where the ceiling is designed to resemble the night sky (it is made of hundreds of tiny mirrors).

Royal Alcazar

Located in Parque de Maria Luisa, which is the largest and most beautiful park in the city, Plaza de España is one of the most recognized architectural buildings in Spain. The colossal semi-circular structure radiates elaborate tilework, exposed red brick, porticoes, and ornate balustrades. A visit to Plaza de Espana is a must when you visit Sevilla! Interesting fact: Plaza de España has appeared in several movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, the second episode of Star Wars (Attack of the Clones) and The Dictator.

Plaza de España

A wonderful way to tour the city is via a cruise down the Guadalquivir River.  From the boat you can see old bridges and numerous significant buildings that hug the banks of the river. Be sure to bring your camera!

Cruise the Guadalquivir River

Started in Sevilla, Flamenco is an art form with passionate dancing, intense voices, and intricate guitar strumming. You simply cannot visit Sevilla without attending a flamenco show.  Many shows have very small audiences, which allows for a more intimate feel and a connection with the performers. Be sure to make a reservation for a show.

Attend a Flamenco Show

Where to Eat

Across from Las Setas is Doña Encarna, a Mediterranean restaurant with delicious options for breakfast (desayuno), lunch (comida), and dinner (cena). A must try: Spanish tortilla with a creamy carbonara sauce (tortilla con cremosa salsa carbonara), and churros con chocolate.

After your meal at Doña Encarna, visit nearby Maria Limones for some homemade gelato. They are all absolutely delicious, but my favorite was Oreo and Tarta de la Abuela in a cone. Delicioso!

Where to Stay

Hotel Alfonso XIII. Commissioned by the King of Spain to play host to international dignitaries during the 1929 Exhibition, Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel remains an iconic cultural landmark, centrally located in the historic quarter of Santa Cruz, next to Royal Alcázar and Sevilla Cathedral. The hotel's elegant décor, from the lobby to the inner courtyard, continues to reflect Sevillian style. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and gardens for you to relax under the warm Andalusian sun.

Hotel Colón, a Gran Meliá Hotel. This 5-star hotel is within walking distance of major points of interest, such as the Sevilla Cathedral or its most renowned leisure areas. An emblem of the city that beautifully fuses the antagonism of the modern and the traditional, harmonized in an avant-garde redesign with a style that only occurs in the Seville capital. The hotel features a wellness spa by Clarins with a sauna, hammam, and bithermal shower, as well as a boutique pool on the sun terrace with panoramic views of the Giralda and the Cathedral.

Hotel Mercer Sevilla. This 5* hotel is located in the heart of Sevilla’s historic center. Housed in the former Casa Palacio Castelar, an elegant 19th century mansion, this hotel is designed for guests to have a luxury experience in an exclusive setting. On the hotel’s rooftop you will find the stunning terrace featuring a swimming pool, solarium and pool bar service, where you can sunbathe, take a refreshing dip, have a snack, or unwind with a drink while you watch the sunset over Sevilla.

Of course, you can receive Fora perks at the beautiful hotels (and more) when you book with me!