24 HOURS IN SEVILLE

Andalusia’s capital city is the perfect place to enjoy a weekend break. Not only is Seville less than three hours flight from London airports, it offers year-round great weather too. From the traditional Spanish culture (think Flamenco!), to the historic buildings that draw crowds of visitors, there are plenty of things to admire about this beautiful city. Here are some of the ways we think you can make the most of a weekend in Seville!

MORNING: VISIT SEVILLE CATHEDRAL AND GIRALDA TOWER

The 14th century gothic basilica occupies the site of the great Aljama mosque, built in the late 12th century by the Almohads, the ruling Moorish dynasty. Recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Site, it contains 80 chapels and covers approximately 11,520m2 making this one of the largest cathedrals in the world. La Giralda, the cathedral’s bell tower and former minaret, is also one of the highlights of Seville and is one of few surviving remnants of the mosque.

AFTERNOON: EXPLORE THE PALACE GROUNDS OF REAL ALCÁZAR AND MARÍA LUISA PARK

The oldest royal palace still in use in Europe is a must-see while in Seville. You can explore the Moorish-style chambers, state rooms, halls, courtyard and landscaped gardens of this vast UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Alcazar is divided into sections dating from a succession of eras: Moorish (11th-12th century), Gothic (13th century), Mudejar (14th century), and Renaissance (15th-16th century). Did you know that the site was used for filming season five and six of hit TV show Game of Thrones?

Late afternoon, walk five minutes across town to María Luisa Park near Guadalquivir River. This spacious, family-friendly park is made up of several plazas and pavilions, palm and orange trees, colourful tiled benches and decorative fountains. The Museum of Arts and Popular Customs and Seville Archaeological Museum can be found on the grounds too.

EVENING: FILL UP AT MERCADO LONJA DEL BARRANCO

There’s nothing better than enjoying local produce on holiday, especially when you find a generous food market that combines 20 pop-up vendors and an outdoor terrace space for cocktails. Overlooking Guadalquivir River, Mercado Lonja del Barranco is home to some delicious tapas, steak and seafood. Make sure you sample fresh paella and risotto from Arrocería and traditional Spanish croquets from The Croquet.