Travel around Seville with Bobby
Day 1A Taste of Andalusian Charm
The moment I stepped foot in Seville, I knew I was in for something special. After settling into my charming boutique hotel in the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, I decided to start the trip by visiting the city’s most iconic landmark – the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower. This cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the sheer grandeur of its architecture took my breath away. I climbed to the top of the Giralda Tower, and let me tell you, the panoramic view of the city was worth every step. You could see the red-tiled rooftops, winding streets, and the majestic Alcázar Palace in the distance.
After this cultural immersion, it was time to indulge in Seville’s famous tapas. I headed to El Rinconcillo, the oldest tapas bar in the city. I devoured traditional dishes like salmorejo and jamón ibérico, washed down with a glass of refreshing tinto de verano. The lively atmosphere of the bar, with locals chatting away, set the perfect tone for the rest of my trip. As the evening fell, I strolled along the Guadalquivir River, watching the sunset as the city’s lights began to twinkle.
Seville’s historic charm is undeniable, and starting the day with such monumental sights was the perfect way to dive into the city. For first-timers, the view from Giralda is a must-see, but bring comfortable shoes for all the walking!
Day 2 Royalty and Flamenco
On day two, I couldn’t wait to explore the Alcázar of Seville. This royal palace is a mix of Moorish and Christian architecture, and the intricately detailed tiles and lush gardens made me feel like I’d stepped into a fairytale. Wandering through the Patio de las Doncellas and Los Baños de Doña María de Padilla, I marveled at the craftsmanship. If you’re a fan of “Game of Thrones,” you’ll recognize this place as a filming location for the Kingdom of Dorne!
After an afternoon of wandering through history, I grabbed lunch at Bodeguita Romero, a small but popular spot known for its montaditos. I tried the famous pringá montadito, a deliciously meaty sandwich, and it lived up to its reputation.
The night was all about flamenco. I booked tickets at La Carbonería, a hidden gem in Seville where you can experience an authentic flamenco show. The passionate performances of the dancers, singers, and guitarists gave me goosebumps. This art form is the heart and soul of Seville, and no trip is complete without feeling its intensity firsthand.
For lunch, I stopped at Bodeguita Romero and ordered their famous pringá montadito, which was a flavorful, meaty delight. It’s a small sandwich, but packed with flavor, and paired perfectly with a glass of local wine. Dinner was light, as I saved room for the flamenco experience.
Food
Returning to the boutique hotel in Santa Cruz after a long day of sightseeing was like coming back to a peaceful retreat. The staff was welcoming, and the quiet courtyard was a perfect spot to unwind.
Accomodation
The Alcázar Palace was an absolute masterpiece – from the stunning Moorish tiles to the lush gardens. The evening flamenco show at La Carbonería was magical. The raw emotion and passion in the performance gave me chills, and it was an intimate setting that felt incredibly authentic.
Activity
The Alcázar is a place where time stops, and it’s easy to lose yourself in its beauty. But the real magic of Seville comes alive at night with flamenco – make sure to reserve a spot at La Carbonería for an intimate and powerful show.
Day 3 A Day of Gardens and Markets
After two full days of sightseeing, I decided to take it slower on day three and enjoy Seville’s natural beauty. My first stop was María Luisa Park, a massive green space that felt like an oasis in the middle of the city. I wandered through the park’s pathways, stopping by the stunning Plaza de España, with its semi-circular building and picturesque canal. It’s the perfect place to take a boat ride or just admire the blend of Renaissance Revival and Moorish architecture.
For lunch, I visited the Triana Market, across the river in the Triana neighborhood. The market is packed with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. I picked up some local favorites like manchego cheese and olives and found a small stall selling freshly made paella. Triana itself is a vibrant neighborhood, known for its pottery and ceramics, so I spent the afternoon browsing the local shops and picking up some souvenirs.
As the day came to an end, I decided to keep things casual with dinner at a cozy tapas spot called Las Columnas, right near the Alameda de Hércules. The area buzzes with energy at night, making it the perfect place to soak up Seville’s nightlife without the crowds.
I explored the local flavors at Triana Market, where I had a fresh plate of paella for lunch. The market had an incredible variety of local products, from cheeses to fresh fruits, making it a great spot for a quick but authentic meal. Dinner at Las Columnas was more relaxed, with classic tapas like patatas bravas and calamares in the lively Alameda de Hércules.
Food
The central location of my hotel made it easy to venture out to different parts of the city. After a peaceful night at Las Columnas, I returned to a clean, quiet room that felt like a home away from home.
Accomodation
The morning spent in María Luisa Park was a refreshing change of pace from the city’s historical sites. The grand Plaza de España was mesmerizing, and taking a slow walk through the park’s lush pathways was exactly what I needed. Exploring Triana in the afternoon was a cultural experience of its own, with pottery shops and local artisans adding to the charm.
Activity
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, María Luisa Park is the perfect spot to relax. Also, don’t skip Triana – it’s less touristy but has some of the best local food and ceramics in the city.
Day 4A Relaxing Day by the Sea
For my last day, I wanted to soak up the essence of Seville one more time. I started with a morning visit to the Metropol Parasol, also known as “Las Setas” or “The Mushrooms.” This modern wooden structure offers a unique contrast to Seville’s historic center and gives you panoramic views of the city. I walked along the skywalk, admiring the mix of old and new below me.
Afterward, I made my way to the Museum of Fine Arts, a hidden gem showcasing incredible works from Spanish artists, particularly from the Golden Age. The museum is quiet and peaceful, making it a great spot to unwind and appreciate the art scene in Seville.
For lunch, I couldn’t leave without trying Casa Morales, a traditional Spanish tavern where I enjoyed solomillo al whisky (pork in whiskey sauce). It was the perfect last meal in the city, and the atmosphere of the old tavern added to the charm.
As my trip came to an end, I spent the evening strolling through the streets of Santa Cruz, soaking up the atmosphere of this magical city one last time. Seville had left an indelible mark on me, with its vibrant culture, history, and warmth.
My final meal in Seville was at Casa Morales, an old tavern steeped in history. The solomillo al whisky was bursting with flavor, and it was the perfect dish to end my culinary adventure. The atmosphere of this rustic bar made me feel like I was dining in another era.
Food
The last night in my Santa Cruz hotel was just as pleasant as the first. By now, it felt like a second home, and the proximity to Seville’s main attractions was incredibly convenient for my final day of exploring.
Accomodation
Walking along the Metropol Parasol in the morning was a unique experience, giving me a different perspective on Seville with its modern design. The visit to the Museum of Fine Arts was a peaceful and enriching way to spend the afternoon, away from the city's hustle. Strolling through the streets of Santa Cruz one last time was a perfect farewell to this incredible city.
Activity
The Metropol Parasol is a must for a unique perspective on Seville. Ending the day with a quiet walk through Santa Cruz is the perfect way to reflect on your time in this incredible city.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Seville is a city full of charm, history, and vibrant culture, offering an unforgettable experience to travelers. From exploring its iconic landmarks to enjoying its local cuisine and friendly atmosphere, my time in Seville was memorable. Here's a more realistic assessment of the city across key categories based on my personal experience:
My first meal in Seville was a tapas feast at El Rinconcillo, a historic bar serving traditional Andalusian dishes. The salmorejo was rich and creamy, and the jamón ibérico was some of the best I’ve had. The bustling atmosphere added to the authenticity.
Food
I stayed at a boutique hotel in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, close to the Seville Cathedral. The room was cozy, with charming Andalusian decor, and the rooftop terrace had a stunning view of the city. The service was impeccable, and the central location made it easy to explore.
Accomodation
Climbing the Giralda Tower and visiting the Seville Cathedral was the highlight of my day. The view from the top of the tower was unforgettable, and the cathedral's grandeur left me in awe. It was the perfect introduction to Seville’s historical depth.
Activity