Continuing our journey through España, we took the 2-hour high-speed train trip from Madrid to Seville. The train system in Spain was very reasonably priced and couldn’t be easier to use. The website Rail Ninja was extremely helpful. Just be aware that there are different train companies – IRYO, AVE and RENFE and that you will have to look for the correct train at the station as there can be more than one train departing at the same time.
Seville had so many surprises in store for us! We learned that Seville is the birthplace of Flamenco dance, for example. We sampled some great Andalusian cuisine and we visited the Alcázar of Seville – a UNESCO World Heritage site which boasts architecture from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods. It dates back to the early 12 century – over 1000 years ago! The Alcazar is the oldest continuously functioning Muslim Palace in the world and one of the most visited sites in Spain.
We stayed at the Hotel Amadeus Sevilla – a gorgeous boutique hotel with a classical music theme. Our room was spacious and comfortable – perfectly situated in the historic centre of the city and within walking distance to Seville’s major attractions. An added bonus for me was the hotel had 3 pianos that could be played as well as roof-top bar with sweeping views of the city.
Sight-Seeing in Seville
Just a short walk from our hotel room we marvelled at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See (Seville Cathedral). This is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It was completed in the 16th century when it was the largest cathedral in the world. This majestic structure was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 – it is a masterpiece of architecture.
The original Gothic design has had Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-classical additions throughout the centuries. The Seville Cathedral houses numerous chapels, religious artifacts, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. We found the inside of this building particularly jaw-dropping! If you are into architecture you will want to linger here for hours!
Just adjacent to the Seville Cathedral is the Giralda Tower. It was originally built as a minaret during the Moorish rule and is now one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks. You will have to climb 35 ramps that wind up to the top of the structure to get to the fabulous views of the city. Apparently, these wide ramps were to enable the sultan to climb to the top with his horse. There are 24 bells in the belfry (but no bats!)
Next stop: the Plaza de España is a stunning square which blends Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival styles. The semicircular building features a canal, bridges, and a series of alcoves representing different regions of Spain. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
The Alcázar
As mentioned previously, one of the delights of Seville has to be the Alcázar, a gem that exudes history and culture. With its fancy tiles, impressive archways, and fairy-tale gardens, it’s like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to an era when sultans and kings ruled. From the Patio de las Doncellas, decked out with all its fancy trimmings, to the chill vibes of the Jardines del Marques, every nook and cranny of the Alcázar has a story to tell.
We toured the Alcázar with a guide named Carmen who was extremely knowledgeable. In fact, we booked most of these tours and admission tickets in advance (just a day or two) through GET YOUR GUIDE. I would highly recommend using this online service as it really streamlined our visits and gave us a lot of options. We booked everything from a food tour to admission tickets to museums and churches to our evening entertainment through GET YOUR GUIDE.
Flamenco Shows
Seville is the birthplace of flamenco, and experiencing a live flamenco performance is a must. Many venues in the city offer authentic flamenco shows with passionate music, singing, and dance. As we walked down the cobblestone streets to find the venue Tablao el Arenal, we could hear the lively rhythms of acoustic guitars, clacking heels and energetic voices wafting out of several different establishments.
Flamenco was everywhere. I love the swirling skirts and dramatic makeup that the dancers wear. The singing that accompanies flamenco is a soulful serenade expressing all kinds of different emotions. You’ll note the distinct sounds of the Phrygian scales (modes) that are used – very different tonally than our western music.
The dinner and flamenco show at Tablao el Arenal was excellent. There were a variety of different male and female dancers, colourful costumes and lots of whooping and clapping!
The River Guadalquivir
The Guadalquivir river meanders through the picturesque city of Seville and is flanked by palm trees and dotted with charming bridges that seem straight out of a postcard. From its banks, you can soak up the sights and sounds of Seville – locals enjoying picnics and boats lazily drifting by. We were able to catch an afternoon boat cruise and enjoy a different vantage point of the city while learning how the Guadalquivir River had been a key player in Seville’s history. For centuries this river served as a vital trade route and witness to countless conquests and triumphs.
We managed to get a good look at the Nao Victoria – a replica of the first ship to sail around the world from 1519-1522. In fact, the replica has also sailed around the world – the first replica ever to do so. You can get tickets to go on board HERE.
Tapas Anyone?
Seville is renowned for its tapas culture, where you can enjoy small, delicious dishes with your drinks. The city’s bars and restaurants offer a wide variety of tapas, providing a culinary adventure for visitors. From classic favourites like patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with spicy sauce) and jamón ibérico (cured ham) to innovative creations bursting with local ingredients, we enjoyed sampling our way through the town.
Cold gazpacho was everywhere and was always a little bit different than the last time. The oxtail stew and plates of anchovies. were particularly delectable. But if that doesn’t do it for you – don’t despair! The culinary scene is alive and well in Seville!
You will see legs of ibérico ham in a lot of Seville’s food shops and knowing how to select the best one is a challenge. We learned that there are at least 4 different types of Ibérico ham each with different flavours and subtleties. They also vary greatly in price. It is common to see locals snacking on a baguette with several slices of ham and a few olives.
One rainy morning, we had fun at the Museum of Illusions. I understand that there are 40 similar illusion museums in 25 different countries throughout the world but Seville was our first time and we had a blast!
Must Do’s!
So, just to recap: When visiting Seville, be sure to:
- Visit the Seville Cathedral of St Mary
- Visit the Alcázar
- Climb up to the top of the Giralda Tower
- Wander around the Plaza de España
- Take a boat tour down the Guadalquivir River
- Book a Flamenco show
- sample tapas, especially ibérico ham
- immerse yourself in the culture, language, art and cuisine of Seville, Spain!
Next stop: GRANADA!
Read about MADRID HERE.
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