Located in the heart of Andalusia, Seville is a sunny city where the Moorish architecture and local folklore will amaze visitors with its richness and diversity. This political, economic and cultural capital of south-western Spain is now one of the most popular destinations in Europe. Over the centuries, Seville has been influenced by many cultures who have bequeathed an important historical and cultural heritage. An ideal holiday destination for lovers of architecture, Seville is a beautiful city with splendid monuments imprinted with all the refinement of Moorish art.
You will discover the famous religious processions of the Holy Week and the picturesque Feria de Abril festival.
Absolute must sees in Seville are the emblematic monuments of the city, such as the Giralda, the minaret that was converted to a bell tower for Seville's cathedral which, at a height of 104 metres, reminds us of the influence of the Moorish Empire in the architectural heritage of this Andalusian city. Not to be missed is the huge Santa Maria de la Sede Gothic cathedral, which is by far the largest church in the Iberian Peninsula. A few steps away, you will find the Archive of the Indies and the magnificent Royal Alcazar, a fortified palace built by Abd Al-Rahman in 913. Finally, you should not leave out a visit to the palace of the Plaza de España, a sumptuous building of brick and marble with impressive galleries which evoke the past glory of the city.
Nature lovers will have a wide choice with the Maria Luisa Park, the gardens of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo or Catalina de Ribera, or many other gardens such as the Alcatraz of the English garden or the garden of the poets. With their flower beds, fountains and ponds, these parks are a haven of peace and freshness.
One of the liveliest cities in Spain
Seville is also one of the liveliest cities in Spain in the evening with its many bars, pubs and nightclubs, as well as its traditional flamenco shows. You can learn the culture of tapas too. A local saying even claims that people in the Andalusian capital spend more time on the streets than at home. The neighbourhoods located on the banks of the Guadalquivir are in the heart of Seville nightlife with its many bars and improvised tablaos. The Alfalfa square, the district of Arenal, or the Alameda de Hercules are also some the trendiest places in town.
Budget for one week: About 500 €
Taxes and tips: Taxes range from 7 to 10%, service is already included but you can leave a 10% tip.
Local currency: Euros (Pesetas before 2002)
Spoken and/or official language: Spanish
Dialing code: + 34 (09)
Sanitary requirements: Tap water is drinkable in Spain.
Electricity: 2 kinds of supplies in operation:
- Type C (European plug with 2 round pins) CEE 7/16 (2.5 A/250 V non-grounded) / CEE 7/17 (German type) and French type more powerful: 16 A/250 V non-grounded
- Type F (3 round pins) CEE 7/4 (called shuko in Germany 16 A/250 V, grounded)
Main Attractions: Historical monuments, festivals, churches, gardens...
