Seville

Spain

"The Giralda, Orange Courtyards & Andalusian Nights"

Seville rewards slow days in the heat. The cathedral and its Giralda bell tower rise over the old town, the Real Alcázar's gardens are a highlight even for travelers who skip other palaces, and Plaza de España's tiled benches curve around a boating canal. Triana, across the river, is the place for tapas and flamenco. Summers are extremely hot, so spring (including Feria and Semana Santa) and fall are the trips to sell. Cádiz is the usual ocean-cruise gateway, about 1.5 hours away.

Seville Cathedral & the Giralda, Real Alcázar, Plaza de España, Barrio Santa Cruz, Metropol Parasol, Triana, flamenco show

March–May & October–November

Alcázar and cathedral tickets go fast in spring; plan indoor sights for midday in warm months

Shore days from Cádiz are rushed. Prefer two nights. Flag Semana Santa and Feria dates, when rooms sell out.