We could go on and on about how much we love Spain, but we’ll spare you the time and get straight to the point (but if you want to hear the rant, we suggest this article about this sleek boutique hotel in Madrid or this wellness-oriented stay in Ibiza). The capital city of the Andalusian province, Seville, has stolen our hearts in more ways than one: Its orange tree-lined cobblestone streets, grand historical monuments, spontaneous flamenco shows, and delicious tapas bars are a few of the reasons why. For a curated itinerary that highlights the best spots in this Iberian city, we’ve got you covered.
To Stay:
Querencia de Sevilla, Autograph Collection
The Querencia de Sevilla, Autograph Collection sits in the former headquarters of Banco Andalucía, steps away from Seville’s entrancing Seville Cathedral. Elegantly remodeled, the hotel’s interiors reflect traditional Sevillian style with upscale, modern twists. Neutral-toned wood floors are complemented by gray floral-patterned wallpaper, along with violet- and emerald-accented furnishings that elevate guestrooms’ aesthetics. Luxe suites feature plush king-sized beds, tranquil overhead rain showers, and private balconies overlooking the city’s monuments.
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
Hosted in an 18th-century home, the Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza is an authentic stay in the heart of Seville. The 41 guestrooms and suites are dressed in classic Spanish interiors: whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and ochre-colored furnishings decorate the space. Stately columns adorn the naturally-lit outdoor courtyard, giving the hotel a homey and historical feel.
To Eat:
Located in the heart of the city, Perro Viejo Tapas Bar is a two-story tapas bar with a lively atmosphere. We recommend ordering the Fried Potatoes with Roasted Brava Sauce (patatas bravas), Tuna Ceviche with Mandarine Leche de Tigre, and Iberian Ham Croquettes — paired with a Sangria, it’s a dangerously good combination.
If there’s anywhere to view a traditional flamenco show, it’s at the Tablao Flamenco El Arenal. The performance is in an intimate setting with close-knit dining tables fronting an elevated stage. Elected by The New York Times as “the best place in the world to feel the emotions of Flamenco Art,” we can attest to the fact that it’s a mesmerizing show, to say the least.
Known as the oldest tapas bar in the city, El Rinconcillio is a timeless place for traditional Andalusian and Mozarabic cuisine. Steeped in four centuries of history, the restaurant preserved its original exteriors to provide its guests with a bona fide Andalusian cultural experience. As for the menu, expect a tasty selection of classic tapas and a full-course menu comprised of fish, ham (or jamón in Spanish), and shellfish dishes.
To Drink:
Penthouse Terrace at Querencia de Sevilla
For sweeping views of Seville while sipping on a tasty white Sangria, look no further than the Penthouse at Querencia de Sevilla.
Gallo Rojo is a taphouse, art exhibition center duo that is the perfect spot to lounge with quality craft beer in an ever-so-artsy setting.
To Visit:
The Royal Alcázar of Seville is the oldest royal palace in use in Europe. Boasting stunning Moorish architecture, the castle is worth touring for its history and design. Plus, seeing exactly which room within the monument starred in the hit television series Game of Thrones is exciting, of course.
Given it’s the largest Gothic-style cathedral in the world, the Cathedral is an absolute must-see while staying in the city.
There’s a reason why the Plaza de España has starred in not one, but two popular films over the years — and most famously as the set for Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Red-hued bricks structure the palace’s exteriors with intricate tile paintings depicting Spain’s 50 provinces.
Located on the west bank of the Guadalquivir River, Triana is a historic neighborhood in Seville with a bohemian flair. To engulf oneself in this storied neighborhood’s culture, head to the Museo de Tolerancia — the Thematic Center for Tolerance museum held at the Castillo de San Jorge ruin site; Triana Market — Seville’s freshest gastronomic market on Plaza del Altozano; and Santa Ana — the oldest church in Seville dating back to 1276. Also, Triana is home to some of the last remaining original ceramic shops in the city, such as Espacio BarroAzul, where guests learn how the formation and curation of the tiles that make up the city.
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