Seville & Province Hotels

Attractions

The Alcázar of Seville is for many, the first item on the travel itinerary. The former Moorish palace dates back to the 14th century and with myriad expansions over time, represents one of the most awesome structures in Spain. With sections that reveal the various design influences that marked the city and indeed, much of the south of Spain, such as Mudéjar, Islamic and Gothic, the Alcázar is a fabulous introduction into the history of Seville.

El Centro is the colloquial term that references the large historical heart of Seville. Without peer in Europe, the old town is a pedestrian paradise, with unfathomable architectural charm, narrow and furtive corridors and cozy tapas bars.

The obvious attraction of El Centro draws hordes of tourists that can detract from the area's authenticity. Thankfully, the city's Macarena district does not suffer as badly from this affliction. Though somewhat proletariat, with necessary touches of urban modernity, the traditional neighbourhood has many attractions. From medieval city walls to the Basilica de la Macarena, Plaza San Gil and a marketplace that dates back to the Arab occupation on Calle Feria, Macarena is a wonderful region of Seville to explore.

Several cathedrals compete for your time in Seville but the Catedral de Santa María de la Sede stands alone. Construction began on the foremost Medieval Gothic church in the world in 1402. More than six hundred years later, the Cathedral has not lost the power to enthral, from the Giralda tower to a grand altarpiece, priceless art and the sepulchre of Christopher Columbus.

Events

The obvious association between Seville and flamenco dance draws many to the city. With so many flamenco bars in El Centro, choice can be difficult, with performance quality hard to discern. The Teatro Lope de Vega however, is a wonderful Neo-Baroque concert hall that hosts regular flamenco shows, as well as the popular Flamenco Biennale festival.

Another tradition in Seville plays out at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza. Known as the “Catedral del Toreo”, the bullring par excellence in Spain pits matador and toro throughout the corrida season, from Easter to October.

By far the most popular festival in Seville, the Spring Fair or Fería, provides residents with a superlative excuse to drink, dance and ride around on horseback. Held every April, the party takes place in the streets, with food vendors, buskers, tents and the cream of Seville society in traditional dress.

Climate

A warm Mediterranean climate makes the city of Seville one of the most pleasant in Europe. Temperatures rarely ever dip below 5°C in winter and the city receives about 50 days of rain a year.

• Winter (December to February) 5-18°C

• Spring (March to May) 8-26°C

• Summer (June to August) 17-35°C

• Fall (September to November) 9-32°C