Seville, Spain was just named the top city to visit in 2018 so it should be added to your travel list ASAP. This once traffic-plagued locale has recently found its artisan roots and become a land of bike paths and trams. The popularity of the hit HBO show, Game of Thrones, also likely had a role in showcasing this city as a land of beauty and ornate architecture. Undeniably, the 400th anniversary of Seville-born painter, Bartolome Esteban Murillo, has let this city come out of its shell through unique art exhibitions and other local activities. Here’s our list of activities that are for locals and food that will make you feel like one.
What to see:
Seville, like all historical cities in Europe, includes some sights that you must see while you are there. Among these is the El Alcazar Real, where parts of Game of Thrones’ Dorne was filmed. This gorgeous palace complete with colorful gardens is perfect for a leisurely walk on a warm day. The Plaza de Espana is a building that was built for the World’s Fair and is surrounded by the Parque Maria Luisa, which is perfect for a bike ride or photo-op. Next, visit La Catedral which is the third largest Roman Catholic cathedral in the world, behind St. Paul’s (London) and St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican). The cathedral is a great place to beat the heat and while there be sure to visit the tomb of Christopher Columbus. If you desire a quirky tour, the Past View tour takes you through the history of the city, with iPhone-rigged video glasses. That’s right, this tour projects re-enactment videos and hologram projections to give you an “augmented reality” experience while in the city.
What to eat:
Tapas is a must while in Seville, and to make it authentic, wait until about 9pm to start your food tour, because this is when the locals eat Tapas. Some of the favorite and more famous Tapas restaurants include Los Coloniales, The Room, La Azotea, Dos de Mayo, La Brunhilda and Duo Tapas. Don’t leave Seville without trying Torrijas, or deep fried sugary bread, Carrillada de Cerdo, or pork cheek, and espinacas con garbanzos, or spinach with chickpeas. As always, try traditional foods and don’t be afraid to try something new! Don’t forget to also try some of the local wines of Seville and a great way to do that is at a wine tasting to see what you like. A trip to Seville is not complete without savoring the region’s flavorful and robust wines. Enjoy tastings at Flor de Sal Vinos, Azotea Vinos & Mas and Flores Gourmet, which is actually a shop where you can taste and sip before you buy.
What to do at night:
When in Seville, a Flamenco show or class is something you don’t want to miss! Enjoy the traditional dance of the area and maybe learn a new step or two. Great places for Flamenco include La Casa de Memoria, Tablao Flamenco Los Gallo and Casa de la Guitarra. If your tapas didn’t fill you up or you’re looking for a great place to hang out at a bar, go to the Alfalfa neighborhood. There are plenty of good restaurants and bars including Bar Alfalfa, Sal Gorda and La Bodega to name a few! Take time to visit the Barrio Santa Cruz and explore the former Jewish Quarter of Seville. This place is perfect for a walk due to cobbled streets, white-washed houses and cute shops to browse, there are also plenty of places to eat in this area. Seville has great nightlife and walking around in this city is very safe, choose from pubs, bars, discos or restaurants to make the most of your nights in this exciting city.
Now that you have seen what beautiful Seville has to offer, it is time to see it in person. Experience a warm and happy culture rich in history and tradition while sampling some of the best food and wine on the planet! Choose from an array of ways to travel through Gate 1, with escorted tours, cruises, independent vacations and flight, hotel & car rental packages. See Seville your way and at a great price with Gate 1 Travel!
Please Note: While the exact locations are not included in our itineraries, we pride ourselves on offering ideas for leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
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