In a bid to escape the biting cold and snow of southwest France, we seized the opportunity to hop on a budget flight to the sun-soaked south of Spain, with Seville as our first stop. Our flight arrived in the late morning, and we navigated the bustling airport to catch a bus into the city center. Maneuvering through a crowded bus with backpacks in tow is no small feat, but we managed to disembark without incident, sparing our fellow passengers and ourselves from any unintended collisions.

Our home for the duration of our stay was a charming apartment just off Plaza de la Encarnación in the old town. Compact but cozy, with a lofted sleeping area and all the essentials, it was perfectly suited to our needs. The location was ideal, putting us within walking distance of Seville’s most notable attractions. To top it off, we found a fantastic coffee shop on the corner, serving excellent coffee and tostadas that brought back memories of the cafes in Newtown, Sydney.

Seville is a city that effortlessly captures the heart. We spent hours wandering the old quarter, a labyrinth of narrow alleys and winding lanes that seem to beckon you deeper into the city’s past. The Moorish influence is palpable, lending the city a unique architectural flair that sets it apart from other European destinations. Seville’s mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudéjar styles is a visual feast, with every corner revealing a new delight.

The city is rich with sights, but two stand out above the rest: the Seville Cathedral and the Alcázar.

The Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
The Seville Cathedral, along with its iconic Giralda Tower, is a monumental testament to the city’s layered history. Originally constructed as a grand mosque during Moorish rule, the cathedral was transformed under Castilian rule in the 1400s into one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals. The interior is breathtaking, with soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and countless chapels filled with priceless art and relics. The Giralda Tower, once the minaret of the mosque, dates back to 1184 and has become one of Seville’s most recognizable landmarks. We climbed the tower’s series of ramps, a unique feature that allowed guards to ride their horses to the top. The panoramic view of Seville from the summit is nothing short of spectacular, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s historic heart.

The Alcázar of Seville
The Alcázar, a stunning palace complex that has served as the residence of Spanish monarchs and Moorish caliphs alike, was perhaps my favorite sight in Seville. Originally founded as a fortress in the early Middle Ages, the Alcázar has evolved into a magnificent blend of architectural styles, with Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements interwoven throughout its halls and courtyards. The gardens are truly enchanting, with their meticulously landscaped paths, vibrant flowers, and tranquil fountains. As you wander through the lush greenery, it’s easy to imagine the kings and queens who once strolled these same paths. Upon leaving the cathedral, we passed through the Patio de los Naranjos, a beautiful courtyard filled with fragrant orange trees. The scent of the blossoms was intoxicating, a sweet reminder of Seville’s unique blend of history and nature.

Seville’s charm, beauty, and rich cultural heritage left a lasting impression on us, making it a destination I’m glad we had the chance to explore. Next stop: Córdoba.

For Information on Traveling In Spain, Read Our Spain Travel Guides.