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Home  >  Blog  >  What to do on a short break to Seville

What to do on a short break to Seville

Trish Burgess Posted on14/12/201630/01/2019 Seville, Spain, things to do in Seville 32 Comments

If you want to get the lowdown on a destination you need to find a trusted blogger who can give you their honest opinion and advice. Which is why, not having the foggiest about what to  do on a short break to Seville, I asked online friend and blogger, Fiona Flores Watson, an expat who lives in the city. Fiona’s own blog, Scribbler in Seville, was my starting point for finding out about the city and then I found articles in the mainstream press, written by Fiona, which provided me with even more inspiration. In fact, if you search things to do in Seville, you will find Fiona’s authoritative words popping up everywhere.

My woman on the ground helped me narrow down my hotel choices and then, even better, arranged to meet Dougie and me during our stay. As is often the case when you meet an online friend for the first time, the relationship carries on as if you’ve know each other in person for years. Fiona and I chatted about Seville, her home for the past 13 years, and then discovered we had mutual friends of friends back in the UK – small world! Thanks to Fiona, we made the most of our three full days in the city.

Let me tell you what there is to see in this stunning capital of Andalucia.

Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral
From top left: View from the Orange tree courtyard, detail from the front of the Cathedral, the intricate High Altar

You can’t really miss this majestic Gothic church which dominates the skyline of the historic centre of Seville. It was built over the main mosque in the city, conserving the beautiful Orange Tree Courtyard and the minaret which forms the lower two-thirds of the bell tower, La Giralda. Building began in the 15th century and it became the largest cathedral in the world. With its aim to reflect the city’s wealth, members of the cathedral chapter said, “Let us construct such a big building that those who see it finished may believe we are mad.” Well it’s certainly impressive inside and out and the reflection of wealth is undeniable.

Once you’ve recovered from the shock of being inside this vast building, take a look at the tomb of Christopher Columbus, be dazzled by the astonishing High Altar then find the entrance to the bell-tower. It’s not as hard to climb to the top as you might imagine, as there are 35 ramps rather than steps, created so that the muezzin calling people to prayer could canter up to the top on his horse. There are superb views of the city from the top.

There were long queues just after the cathedral opened at 11am but later in the afternoon we walked straight in. The cost was 9 euros which included entry to the church of San Salvador.

Real Alcázar

Real Alcazar Seville
From top left: The Grotto Gallery, the ceiling of the Ambassador’s Hall, view into the courtyard, ceramic tile detail.

There are a thousand years of Spanish history to behold in this extraordinary palace. The royal residence was constructed in the 14th century within the palaces which had been built by the city’s Almohad rulers. The Moorish architecture (Mudejar style) is simply glorious and the wonderful mix of cultures which the Alcázar showcases, makes for a breathtaking visit. Wonder at the gilded wooden dome of the Ambassador’s Hall, admire the vaulted halls and then let yourself be amazed by the lushness of the gardens.  Fans of Game of Thrones might also spot some locations here  from seasons five and six.

Allow yourself a few hours to really appreciate the beauty of the Alcázar. There’s a great little café too where you can sit outside and admire the gardens.  If you’re thinking of visiting the Alcázar it’s probably best to book a slot in advance but if, like us, you are visiting in low season, you can chance just queueing for half an hour or so. Entrance cost was 9.50 euros.

Plaza de Espana/Maria Luisa Park

DEtail from Plaza de Espana

Probably our favourite spot in Seville, the vast curved plaza is the place to sit, soak up the sun and people watch.  Gorgeous bridges span a little canal giving the plaza a Venetian feel to it, particularly as you can hire boats there too. Everywhere you look, and even adorning the place where you sit, you will be entranced by the colourful ceramic tiles. The park must be perfect in the summer to escape the heat of the city but even in winter it was charming, with lovely avenues leading down to the archaeological museum and the museum of popular art and tradition. We didn’t visit either of these, unfortunately, opting to admire them from the gardens whilst we made the most of the sunshine.

Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza – Bullring

Seville real maestranza
From top left: the entrance to the bullring, the chapel for the bullfighters, my matador in the ring.

My favourite book when I was little was The Story of Ferdinand by Mungo Leaf which told of a little bull who preferred smelling flowers to fighting. I was therefore a little unsure about whether to pay a visit to Seville’s famous bullring. However, I am glad we did as the baroque building itself is stunning,  and we both felt it was important to understand why bullfighting has continued to be a part of the culture of the region. The guided tour was extremely good, explaining in Spanish and in English, and with great passion, the history of the building and the rudiments of bullfighting. This was an unexpected highlight of the trip.

Metropol Parasol

Las Setas from below

 

Las Setas from above

Not all the main attractions in Seville are centuries old. In 2011 architect Jurgen Mayer designed this controversial creation, supposedly the largest wooden structure in the world. Known locally as Las Setas (mushrooms)  this giant waffle spreads out over the Plaza de la Encarnatión. For 3 euros you can take an elevator to the top (26 metres high) and take in some fabulous city views. The entry price also includes a drink at the bar and a postcard – a real bargain. The ticket booth is located underground and signs direct visitors via the antiquarium. For some reason, Dougie and I mistook this for the aquarium and were searching for fish tanks rather than Roman remains.

Museum de Bellas Artes – Museum of Fine Arts

380px-fray_hortensio_felix_de_paravicino_museo_de_bellas_artes_de_sevillaWe popped into this beautiful gallery as we were passing by and it proved to be a real find. Paintings from mainly Spanish artists from the medieval times onwards, including works by Goya. One painting caught my eye, a portrait by El Greco. Painted in 1609 the subject, Hortensio Felix de Paravicino, was a Spanish preacher. There was something about his face which just seemed to be, not only rather handsome and kind, but surprisingly modern. Maybe it was the beard?

The art gallery is free for members of the European Union so UK citizens should go now before they trigger Article 50…

Other posts about our short break in Seville:

Falling in love with Seville

Where to stay and eat in Seville

 

 

 

 

Previous Article From Spalding to Seville via Stansted
Next Article Where to stay and eat in Seville

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32 Comments

  1. Fiona Watson Reply
    15/12/2016 at 12:01 am

    Thanks for the mention Trish, it was great meeting you and Dougie and comparing travel stories. I’m so glad you enjoyed your time in Seville, it’s a very beautiful and beguiling city – I know how lucky I am to be writing about it and working as a guide here. I also loved Ferdinand the Bull, thanks for reminding me about it!

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      02/01/2017 at 10:19 am

      It was lovely to meet up – thanks for giving up your time, it was really appreciated. I don’t know whether I still have my copy of Ferdinand – will have to hunt it out but I remember it so well.

  2. Sarah Ebner Reply
    15/12/2016 at 4:53 pm

    It’s such a beautiful city – would love to go back. I’ve only been once, and then it wasn’t for long. Sounds like you had the right information too, thanks to Fiona!

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      02/01/2017 at 10:17 am

      I was pleased we had a few days to explore – just changed the pace of the trip. Would love to return to this area and see the other cities now. And you can always trust a blogger to help you out!

  3. Sarah Reply
    15/12/2016 at 5:15 pm

    I would agree with you about the painting, the man looks very modern. I’m sure I’ve seen men like that in France, slightly differently dressed however…

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      02/01/2017 at 10:16 am

      I was mesmerised by his face and eyes particularly. I thought it might just be me so it’s reassuring to hear what you think, Sarah.

  4. libby Reply
    29/12/2016 at 8:40 pm

    Seville beguiled us too! it truly is a lovely place and one day we will return. Isn’t it odd that the Bullring is such a fabulous tour? very interesting. How lovely that you met a blogger too….we must meet up one day!

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      01/01/2017 at 3:02 pm

      Lovely to hear you loved Seville too. ne of those places you think – why haven’t we been here before? And yes, we both agreed the bullring tour was surprisingly good. I now know what each of the toreadors do and their history plus the famous bulls.
      It would be fab to meet up sometime. x

  5. Jennifer Howze Reply
    02/01/2017 at 1:09 pm

    What fantastic architecture! The Metropol Parasol is wonderful, especially in juxtaposition to the Gothic cathedral and other buildings and details. x

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:17 am

      I can see why it caused controversy but it’s such a dramatic, wonderful creation, and it still has its uses – bringing the market back to the square and uncovering the Roman ruins.

  6. Nell (the Pigeon Pair and Me) Reply
    02/01/2017 at 3:56 pm

    Thanks for the tip-off about the Museum! I’ve only been to Seville once, and it was just for a couple of hours, so I didn’t get to see any of these highlights. I’m sure we’ll go back some day, and when we do, I’ll be coming back to this guide. #MondayEscapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:18 am

      Yes – go quick! Mind you, the tickets price was under 2 euros so it’s still worth going after Brexit!
      Hope you get to return soon to see more of Seville.

  7. Ruth Reply
    02/01/2017 at 6:57 pm

    There are so many wonderful sights in Sevilla. I have never been but it is high in my list (since Spain is one of my favorite countries in the entire world). Thanks for fueling my wanderlust. #MondayEscapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:11 am

      Happy to fuel your wanderlust, Ruth. If you love Spain already, Seville will enchant you.

  8. Emma Raphael Reply
    02/01/2017 at 9:38 pm

    Ferdinand the Bull is a big favourite in our house too! 😀 How wonderful you got to meet up with Fiona! Seville looks just so beautiful! x

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:10 am

      Ah you loved Ferdinand too! I think I will have to buy the book again to remind me.
      Seville – and Fiona – were wonderful!

  9. Brooke of Passport Couture Reply
    03/01/2017 at 3:27 am

    Seville definitely has a fun mix of modern and historical art and architecture, as shown in your photos. I’m fascinated by Metropol Parasol and I could spend all day in Plaza de Espana. Thanks for sharing your tips and suggestions for visiting this incredible city.

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:06 am

      I’m so glad we weren’t rushed – having three full days to explore made all the difference. There was time to sit and enjoy.

  10. Claire at Tin Box Traveller Reply
    03/01/2017 at 4:01 pm

    How great to have your own Seville sightseeing consultant. That must have made every moment of your visit so much richer. Yes, what a bargain for going up on top of the ‘mushrooms’. I bet all of the views were amazing. And you’re right about the preacher – it’s definitely there beard! 🙂 #MondayEscapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 11:02 am

      I had got to know Fiona in 2012 when we were both finalists in the BritMums blogging awards but I hadn’t met her in person. It was so good to meet up
      I loved the extras thrown in with the mushroom ticket – all attractions should do this, I think!

  11. Christine @afamilyday Reply
    03/01/2017 at 8:17 pm

    I’d definitely be dragging my kids to the mushroom/waffle. I’ve semi-planned a trip to Seville previously (by train) but not sure when I’ll actually get to go, one day….. #Mondayescapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 10:57 am

      They would love it – whisk them up in the lift, it’s an easy bit of sightseeing, especially for kids.
      WE had planned initially to stay in Seville and then move to Cordoba and Granada by train but we didn’t have enough days off to do it properly so we will return to see the other cities another time.

  12. Tracey Williams Reply
    03/01/2017 at 8:38 pm

    I love the waffle, what an amazing piece of architecture. Seville is on my list of ‘places to visit when the kids leave home’…. as you can imagine it is a pretty big list. How crazy that you and Fiona had mutual friends in the UK. It certainly is a small world. Beautiful pictures Trish #Mondayescapes x

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 10:55 am

      Isn’t the waffle amazing! I agree, our list was getting very long but we are starting to get through it and I’m so glad Seville was on it.
      I know – the connections were remarkable, it was so lovely to meet up and share our stories

  13. Phoebe | Lou Messugo Reply
    04/01/2017 at 5:44 pm

    I so badly want to go to Seville and to be honest I don’t really know why I haven’t been there yet. Your posts about it have been so inspiring. I just love that wooden structure Metropol Parasol #mondayescapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      05/01/2017 at 10:42 am

      That’s just what we said when we were there. To think, we have visited the coastal resorts in Spain and the Balearics a number of times but never thought to explore these wonderful cities. The Metropol Parasol was surreal!

  14. Mini Travellers Reply
    05/01/2017 at 6:15 pm

    I have wanted to go to Seville for so long and you’ve reminded me that it needs to back to the top of the list. I also adore the look of the Metropol parasol #MondayEscapes

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      06/01/2017 at 10:03 am

      It was a very bold move to place such a huge, modern structure in the historical centre but I think it works – and there are such good views from the top.

  15. Jo Reply
    24/04/2017 at 6:53 pm

    Enjoyed reading this via the BritMums round up – thanks for all you do compiling and hosting the round up! Would love to go to Seville – what a great mix of the old and the new and with added sunshine!

    • Trish Burgess Reply
      27/04/2017 at 1:00 pm

      That’s really nice for you to say that – it’s good to be appreciated. I’ve been doing it for a number of years now and do enjoy it. We thought Seville was fabulous. Winter sunshine was perfect.

  16. Pingback: Where to stay and eat in Seville - Mum's Gone To ...
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