Seville Flights And Sights

Seville conjures up images of raven-haired flamenco dancers, bullfights and extravagant Mudéjar architecture. A hybrid of Islamic and European traditions, this fusion is best reflected in the splendor of the Alcázar, a palace still in use by members of the Spanish royal family. Seek out Casa de Pilatos, 16th-century palace of the dukes of Medinaceli and delight in its fountains and salons. The Sevillians' passion for bullfighting is visible on a tour of the Real Maestranza bullring and its onsite museum, which houses paintings and embellished matador costumes.

Things to Do

Lose yourself in the perfumed gardens filled with orange trees in the Alcázar, and listen to the gentle trickling of water from its many fountains. Geometric Moorish tiles and intricate woodwork stretch as far back as you can see, mirrored in courtyard pools. The Catedral de Sevilla and Giralda Tower is a massive gothic structure with five naves and towering spires. Leave the crowds behind and climb up the 300-foot tower for unparalleled city views.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Flamenco shows mesmerize with clicking castanets, swirling skirts and fervent strumming of guitars at Sevillian institution La Carbonería in Barrio Santa Cruz, the Old Jewish Quarter. Seville caters to its nocturnal natives, and late-night bars thrive, especially in the Alfafa and Alameda neighborhoods. In the summer, locals congregate at bars on Calle Betis by the river in Triana to escape the heat and go clubbing at seasonal outdoor venues on Isla de la Cartuja.

Restaurants and Dining

Eat as much or as little as you want on a tapas trail around the bars tucked in Seville's winding alleys. Order dry fino sherry to go with bulbous olives and savor slivers of ham on toast. Savor to-die-for costillas a la miel (honey-coated ribs) at Bar Eslava, or the venison chorizo at the 155-year-old Casa Morales. Spanish nuns have been making confections for centuries, and at the San Leandro convent you can buy yema sweets made by the sisters.

Relaxation

Drift lazily around the moat of Plaza de España and gaze up at bridges with intricately painted Moorish tiles with blue, green and yellow motifs. When night falls, the plaza's graceful symmetry is bathed in a softer light. The Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes, with its box-hedged gardens and cloistered courtyards, is a welcome stop after admiring portraits by painter Diego de Velázquez. On summer evenings, join locals in their finery for a walk along Guadalquivir River's banks.

Find flights to Seville with American Airlines and plan a journey of discovery to this endlessly fascinating Spanish destination. The city's many charms are waiting, from soaring Gothic architecture to historic palaces and gardens to impressive museums. And who could overlook delectable tapas restaurants or colorful flamenco shows? We'll help you plan an unforgettable trip with tips on the best things to do in Seville.

A must on our list of activities in Seville is a trip to Catedral de Seville and Giralda Tower. The cathedral is the third-largest church in all of Europe, and it's the largest Gothic building in the world. Construction began in the late 15th century, and it holds the remains of Christopher Columbus in an elaborate tomb. There is also a vast collection of jaw-dropping artwork in Catedral de Seville, including gorgeous stained glass. To get to La Giralda, you'll cross the Patio of Orange Trees, a refreshing and sunny respite. La Giralda is a very recognizable symbol of the city, a tower built in the 12th century. A winding ramp leads you to the top, where you'll have an unparalleled view of the city below.

After touring the cathedral and tower, another one of our favorite things to do in Seville is visiting Alcazar, the 14th-century Mudejar palace. It's located just north of the cathedral, and it's the oldest royal residence still being used in Europe today. Tours are allowed, and we highly recommend taking one. You'll see truly impressive Spanish artwork and simply stunning gardens. One of our favorite sights here is the replica of the Santa Maria (yes, that Santa Maria; King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella welcomed Christopher Columbus at Alcazar when he returned from America).

If the artwork at Alcazar piqued your interest, head to the Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes de Seville. A stroll through this fine art museum is another one of the most popular activities in Seville, and with good reason. You'll find a noteworthy collection of paintings by El Greco along with many pieces by Murillo, who was a native of Seville.

Of course, no trip here would be considered complete without taking in a flamenco show in Barrio Santa Cruz. But don't forget to add dining in tapas bars to your list of things to do in Seville. Savor small plates while sipping Spanish wine and relaxing with friends -- now that's the way to experience Seville!

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