SEVILLE: A walking tour

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Start your tour at Plaza de España, Seville’s stunning semi-circular square, adorned with colourful tiled alcoves and a canal crossed by ornate bridges. Admire the neo-Mudejar architecture and the grandeur of the Palacio de España. From here, stroll west through Parque de María Luisa, a lush park with fountains and shaded paths, capturing Seville’s romantic charm.

After about 10 minutes, reach Calle San Fernando and stop at Casa Morales (Calle García de Vinuesa, 11), a historic tapas bar since 1850, with rustic charm and barrels lining the walls. Enjoy a quick lunch of salmorejo (chilled tomato soup) or espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpea stew), affordable, no reservations needed, but arrive early to avoid the local crowd. The old-world vibe feels like a Sevillian classic.

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Continue north towards the Catedral de Sevilla and Giralda, the city’s colossal Gothic cathedral and its iconic bell tower, a former minaret. Marvel at the cathedral’s intricate façade and, if time allows, pop in for a quick look at its vast interior and Columbus’ tomb (small fee). Climb the Giralda’s ramps for a 20-minute visit with panoramic views, a nod to Seville’s Moorish heritage.

Head west into the Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville’s enchanting old Jewish quarter, with narrow, cobbled streets and whitewashed houses adorned with flowers. Wander along Calle Mateos Gago and stop at Bodeguita Romero (Calle Harinas, 10), a no-reservations tapas bar for a quick glass of fino sherry or a montadito (small sandwich), arrive promptly to snag a spot. 

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Continue to Real Alcázar, a UNESCO-listed palace blending Mudejar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Explore its lush courtyards and tiled halls (book tickets in advance for a quick 20-minute visit) or admire its exterior from Patio de Banderas. From here, stroll north along Avenida de la Constitución, passing the Archivo de Indias, a grand 16th-century building with historical significance.

Loop towards Plaza Nueva, home to the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), a Plateresque gem. For a sweet treat, visit La Campana (Calle Sierpes, 1), a historic patisserie since 1885, for a coffee or hot chocolate with a yema (custard pastry) or torrija (Spanish French toast), no bookings needed, but expect a queue. The nearby Calle Sierpes, a pedestrian shopping street, offers a chic vibe.

End your tour at Metropol Parasol (Las Setas), a modern wooden structure in Plaza de la Encarnación with sweeping city views from its walkway (small fee). For a final treat, pop into Bar Estrella (Calle Águilas, 6), a nearby tapas bar, for a glass of tinto de verano or a slice of torta de aceite, soaking up Seville’s vibrant energy. Alternatively, relax at a café in Plaza de la Encarnación, watching the city’s lively street life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Seville’s Moorish legacy, tapas culture, and architectural splendour, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled Santa Cruz streets and bring a light jacket for Seville’s occasionally breezy evenings

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