Your Guide To Seville

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a beautiful, vibrant Spanish city – jam-packed with deep historical culture. From its ornate cathedral to its stunning architecture, to countless meals’ worth of authentic food, Seville is worth a visit. While there is lots for a touristy adventure (and its fair share of over-priced souvenir shops), you’ll also find plenty of authentic neighbourhoods and activities if that is more your vibe.

Must-See Sights:

Cathedral

The magnificent Gothic architecture dominates the skyline of the city, with its bell tower, dome, and record-breaking nave. The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See is home to the gravesite of Christopher Columbus, as well as Spanish royalty, such as Ferdinand III of Castile and Elisabeth of Hohenstaufen. While the tickets can be pricey, students can enjoy half-price admission – bring a valid ID and check the latest discounts.

Metropol Parasol

Known by locals as Las Setas (“The Mushrooms”), this is the largest timber-framed structure in the world. It was constructed between 2004-2011 in order to revitalise a car park which was a dead spot between popular tourist locations. For panoramic views of the city, walk across it: wait for the sun to set and it will be illuminated. If heights aren’t your thing, there is still a good view from below it. Furthermore, there is a bustling market (Mercado de la Encarnción) at its base.

Plaza de España

This sweeping semi-circular plaza is one of Seville’s most photographed sights. It is characterised by tiled alcoves (representing Spain’s provinces), beautiful bridges over the canal, and a gigantic fountain. While it is free to visit, using the toilets and visiting the military museum will cost you.

Shopping:

Seville gives great opportunities for retail therapy, including some amazing vintage clothes shops. While there are likely loads, I found Wonder Vintage, Rómula Vintage, and Nonna’s Vintage: these are ideal for unique and ethical pieces that won’t break the bank.

Eating:

The city is a paradise for foodies. It is crammed with tapas spots, ideal for having a dish and a drink, and moving onto somewhere else; your very own makeshift walking-food-tour! Here is a non-comprehensive list of places I found –

Mesones del Serranito

This place is almost equal parts food as it is museum, with lots of authentic décor dedicated to Seville’s rich bullfighting past (and present).

Bar Paco Góngora

Cosy, charming and colourful, this little bar is the epitome of authentic and understated. It is as beautiful as the food is delicious, and the staff are welcoming and attentive.

La Carboneria

For one of Seville’s liveliest venues, the bar is reasonably understated. It has no sign at the entrance; a tucked-away gem. While you can get food and drink here, the main attraction is the free flamenco performances every half an hour or so.

I stayed in Salteras – a little town just outside the main city – in order to get cheaper accommodation with a pool (a must in the midst of the August heatwave). I would recommend this if you would rather a villa than an apartment, as it is only a one-hour train ride to Seville. Additionally, if you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of the city, Salteras is beautiful in itself, with its own fair share of great food places and sightseeing.