Destination inspiration: Seville, Spain

Why go?

Seville is awash with colour. Ripe oranges dangling from lush green trees, golden sandstone buildings clad in blue-and-white mosaic tiles and ruby-red ‘vino tinto’ served with plump manzanilla olives – these are the hues of the Andalusian capital.

Food is a big part of Sevillano culture. In the Casco Antiguo and Macarena districts, tapas of jamón ibérico, chickpeas and spinach, solomillo al whiskey or fried octopus are served alongside ice-cold beers and sherry from nearby Jerez.

After eating, take a leisurely stroll along the Guadalquivir river, passing Seville’s famous bullring and Torre de Oro watchtower, before weaving through the Parque de Maria Luisa to the magnificent Plaza de España. Seville’s gothic cathedral is another must-see and can be admired from the sky-high walkway of the Metropol Parasol.

Seville is a city that never sleeps – so if you plan on dancing the night away, head to the trendy bars in La Alameda, or catch an authentic flamenco performance in the Triana district’s ‘tablaos’.

When to go?

In summer, Seville reaches sizzling temperatures of over 40 degrees, so it’s best to visit in the spring or autumn. The incredibly busy Semana Santa attracts thousands in late March or early April, while the annual Feria de Abril transforms the Los Remedios neighborhood with non-stop dancing, drinking and eating festivities.

Where to stay?

Hotel Alfonso XIII – A Luxury Collection Hotel – Seville, Spain

When the summer heat strikes, Hotel Alfonso XIII is the ideal place to cool down. Dive into the spacious outdoor swimming pool or sip a refreshing beverage in the Andalusian-style courtyard. All across the property, you’ll find beautiful ceramic tiles and ornate arches, a testament to Seville’s Moorish history.

Hotel Gran Melia Colon – Seville, Spain

Its central old town location makes the Hotel Gran Melia Colon a great starting point for your explorations. The Museum of Fine Arts, Plaza de Armas square, Metropol Parasol and Cathedral are all just a short stroll away. Prefer to take it easy? The rooftop hot tub promises complete relaxation and fantastic skyline views.

Hotel Palacio de Villapanés – Seville, Spain

The magnificent courtyard alone makes Hotel Palacio de Villapanés well worth the visit. Here, marble, black-and-white tiles, and green palm trees evoke a regal atmosphere. And if you needed even more reasons to visit, the in-house hammam, rooftop pool and nighttime flamenco performances aren’t bad either.

EME Catedral Hotel – Seville, Spain

Seville’s cathedral is the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world, its interior decked out in gold and stained glass windows. The exterior is equally as stunning – and when you stay at EME Catedral Hotel, you can marvel at the view from your plush room, the swimming pool, or the rooftop bar – the choice is yours.

Aguilas5 SevillaSuites – Seville, Spain

If you want to try your own hand at tapas, Aguilas5 SevillaSuites has a kitchen and fridge in every apartment. Just pick up fresh produce from one of Seville’s many markets and enjoy your meal from the beautiful terrace. The staff are also known to give outstanding recommendations for the local area.