When you think of Spain: Flamenco dance, Tapas, bullfighting, romantic plazas and passionate fiestas probably come to mind? If this is what you love about Spain, then you have to go (at least once in your lifetime) to Seville! All the clichés that are most associated with Spain are found here. Capital of Andalusia and fourth biggest city in Spain, Seville seduces because of its amazing architecture, friendly and passionate people, orange blossom and traditonal cuisine. If you want to get to know the “Queen of the South”, you should not miss our insider tips for your stay in Seville.
Wander around the Alcazár gardens
Seville has several parks to offer that are worth a visit. A nice place for a coffee break is Parque Maria Luisa close to the Plaza de España, a semicircular plaza that formed the centrepiece at the city’s famous 1929 Exposition. But if you really want to relax and enjoy fine garden architecture, you should stroll around the gardens of the Real Alcazár. The palace of the Kings of Seville has the largest late-medieval garden in Europe and you can find Arabic Ornamentation, Renaissance, Baroque and Modern elements here, all of them surrounded by palm trees and abundant vegetation, fountains, jasmine, magnolia and orange trees. Come early in the morning and start your day with a coffee on the terrace of the garden’s café whilst enjoying the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Join the locals for some tapas
Hungry after a tour through the city? Seville offers a wide range of good quality restaurants but most of the time you will end up in a spot with many other tourists ordering the same menu. The city is known for its traditional andalusian cuisine and local tapas bars are the best place to taste some of the most delicious specialties Southern Spain has to offer. A local spot is Bodeguita Antonio Romero which is known for its typical dishes which will make your mouth water. Order some montaditos, pescado and the homemade croquetas and enjoy your meal with a cold cerveza.
Watch the sunset from an architectural masterpiece
Located at Plaza de la Encarnacion in the city centre of Seville, the Metropol Parasol is the world’s largest wooden structure. Its waffle-like crown structure has been finally completed in April 2011 after a competition held by the city of Seville in 2004. Designed by the german architect Jürgen Mayer this unique organic urban space is a contrast to the medieval city centre of Seville and became one of the most fascinating spots of the city. Get here at sunset and you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful views over the city.
Enjoy a sundowner on a terraza
The Alameda de Hércules area just around the corner of our language school has lots of terrazas; open-air bars, that are the perfect place for a sundowner after a day of sightseeing. The former redlight district is today full of restaurants and bars and attracts a young and hip crowd and gets very busy especially on the weekends. Just order a drink on one of the terraces, relax and watch the world go by. You will definitely not get bored here!
Explore the cultural heritage of the Arabs
If you want to explore a bit more of the rich culture Andalusia has to offer, the city of Córdoba is well worth a visit. The city is famous for its impressive Mezquita, one of the world’s biggest mosks that dates back to the 10th century. At this time Córdoba was the largest, most prosperous city of Europe, outshining Byzantium and Baghdad in science, culture and arts. You can easily reach Córdoba by taking the train at the main central station in Seville. Tickets are available for around 10 Euro one way and the journey is about 90 minutes.
Seville is a beautiful destination to visit all year round even though it can get quite hot in July and August and locals tend to leave the city during this period. The best time for travelling is right now as the orange trees are in full bloom and temperature is still pleasant for wandering around in the city.
If you would like to learn the Spanish language or improve your Spanish skills during your stay in Seville, you can book a language course at the Babylon Idiomas school in Seville. It’s located close to Alameda de Hercules, right in the heart of the city and offers weekly intensive courses for all levels. If you book before the 31st of May you will even get a 20% discount on your Spanish course and you don’t have to pay an enrolment fee! What are you waiting for? Get to know Spain at its most authentic and immerse yourself in the Spanish language whilst enjoying the beautiful capital of Andalusia.
travel, seville, spain, language, tourism
