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Seville Area
Seville is a vibrant city that never sleeps. The atmosphere is charming and laid-back during day and electric at night. Catch a Flamenco show or watch a bullfight in one of Seville's historic bull rings. This is an enchanting place with something for everyone. Just make sure that you don't go during the summer months as temperatures can be scorching during that time of year.
Highlights of Seville
- The Cathedral
- Alcazar
- Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza
- Casa de Pilatos
- Tomb of Christopher Columbus
Historical Sites
The Cathedral
Anybody who ventures into the center of the old part of Seville will inevitably reach the Cathedral. Originally built as a mosque in 1248, it was torn down and re-built in 1401 forming, what is now, the current Cathedral. Known as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, the main building is 126m long and 85m wide. The style is predominately gothic with a mix of Renaissance. It's definitely a site worth visiting!
Alcazar
The Alcazar has been called Seville's Alhambra. A World Heritage Monument, it was originally developed into a palace by Seville's Muslim rulers in the 11th century and occupied and added on to by various rulers after that. The buildings are beautiful and there are headsets for rent in a variety of languages if you are interested in a self-guided tour. Make sure you don't miss the gardens as they are also quite spectacular.
Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza
For those interested in watching a bullfight, Seville is a great place to see one. Built in 1758, the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza is said to be one of the most beautiful and important bullrings in Spain. Bullfights are held between Easter Sunday and October, but if you don't feel you're up for the carnage, then a tour of the bullring's small museum is a nice alternative.
Casa de Pilatos
If you are interested in seeing how the nobility of Spain used to live, then you might like to take a tour of the Casa de Pilatos. Said to be Seville's finest noble mansions, and still occupied by the ducal Medinaceli family, the Casa de Pilatos boasts beautiful architecture that was intended to imitate Pontius Pilate's palace in Jerusalem. If you like beautiful fountains, courtyards, domes, and gardens, then you won't be disappointed when you visit. Be sure to look at your ticket which provides a plan for how to get around the grounds.
Torre del Oro Maritime Museum
Enjoy a walk along the riverside and stop at the Torre del Oro to pay a visit to the small Maritime Museum inside. The tower was originally a 13th century Islamic watchtower located on a corner of the now vanished city walls. At that time, its dome was supposedly covered in golden tiles which is why it is now known as the "Tower of Gold".
Tomb of Christopher Columbus
While visiting the Cathedral, make sure you don't miss the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Located inside the cathedral's southern door, the tomb dates back from 1902, and apparently contains the bones of Christopher Columbus that were brought back from the Caribbean in 1899. This was verified through DNA testing in 2006, but some think that since his bones were moved so frequently, it's possible that a part of him still remains in the Caribbean.
Activities
Cartuja 93
The 1993 Expo in Seville showcased some interesting futuristic pavilions which you may still wander through. Many of them are now home to businesses, but if you're in the mood to see something more recent, this might be a nice break. The gates to get into the technology park tend to only be open on the western side on Calle Américo Vespucio.
Isla Magica Amusement Park
The Isla Magica Amusement Park is themed as a 16th century Spanish colonial adventure park with a variety of roller coasters, and other great rides. Opening hours change yearly, so it's best to double-check before you go.
Museo de Bellas Artes
Said to be Andalucia's best art museum, the Museo de Bellas Artes houses works by well-known Sevillan artists such as Murillo, Zurbarán and Valdés Leal. Seville played a large roll in Spain's "Golden Century" and the museum helps to put the art pieces in context. In addition, the museum in housed in the beautiful Convento de al Merced, which further adds to it's appeal.
Flamenco Dancing
When in Seville, make sure you don't miss seeing some Flamenco Dancing. While most people associate Flamenco with Spain, the truth is that its origins are mainly in the South of Spain. There are a number of "tablaos" where you can see some professional dancing in an intimate setting.
Places to Stay
Hostels
There are a wide variety of hostels in Seville. To search for hostels online with full descriptions, photos and availability information, please access the following link: http://reservations.bookhostels.com/isecard.com/. The $2 reservation fee will be waived when booking through this site.
Places to Eat
Bar Alfalfa
When in Spain, you definitely need to try some of the traditional "tapas" which are like appetizers. They are usually served at the bar and range from traditional jamon slices to Spanish omelets. At this bar, they have a nice variety to choose from in a very charming setting.
Café Bar Duque
This is a great place to try the typical Spanish "churros con chocolate". They are delicious, but VERY heavy on the stomach, so try them in moderation!
Habanita
This well-known restaurant serves a great variety of Cuban, Andalucian and vegetarian food.
Getting Around
Walk
The best way to get around Seville, by far, is to walk. The old center of Seville is very easy to walk around, and it's a wonderful way to explore all of the hidden ally-ways, which inevitably lead to great bars or restaurants that are tucked away from the main streets.
Bike
Another great option is to rent a bike. The terrain is flat, but if you plan to go on the street, you might want to think twice as navigating the traffic can be a challenge.
Car
Alamo Rent A Car offers special rates of 15% off to ISE Cardholders. Mention Code BY ID#: 706768 when reserving your car and don't forget to present your ISE Card. Call 34 93 305 61 53 if you are interested in this option.
Moving On
Air
Seville is served by the San Pablo Airport. There are a wide range of domestic and international flights to choose from.
Bus
There are two bus stations in Seville with service to other parts of Andalucia, the Mediterranean, and Portugal.
Train
For trips to Madrid, there is a high-speed bullet train (AVE service) connecting Seville to Madrid.
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