I had the most beautiful trip in Spain. There is so much to do and something for everyone! Make the most of your time in Spain- explore the beautiful and vibrant cities, foodie scene(great tapas), indulge in the allure of iconic beaches, world class museums, history and culture while enjoying the beauty of the European country.

Destinations:

1.) Explore Seville- The capital and largest city of Andalusia (Southern Spain) and the fourth largest city in Spain. Seville is best known for its beautiful architecture, history, monuments, flamenco, and tapas scene.

Things to Do:

• Plaza de España- Visit the beautiful Plaza de España and fragrant gardens of Maria Luisa Park. The Plaza is the most famous square in Seville. It combines elements of Renaissance and Moorish Revival architecture- incredible patterns and tile work, decorative and ornamental colors and designs. Walk the canal, and admire the bright colors and detail of the azulejos(glazed colored tiles). Check out the 48 small alcoves with benches, each decorated with brightly colored ceramic tiles representing the different provinces of Spain. There are also four bridges across the canal representing the four ancient kingdoms of Spain- Castile, Aragon, Navarre, and Leon. You can also take a boat ride around the plaza-(rent small boats to row the canal).

FUN FACT: The Plaza de España has been the back drop for filming locations in “Star Wars: Episode 11- Attack on the Clones”.

• Visit The Cathedral of Seville and LaGiralda

Cathedral de Sevilla (The Cathedral of Seville) is the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial site of Christopher Columbus. The Cathedral was originally built as a Mosque, but when Ferdinand 111 conquered Seville in 1248, he converted the Mosque into a Catholic church with Renaissance and Gothic style. The Cathedral was built over remnants of a Moorish Mosque.

Climb the Iconic Giralda Tower- The bell tower has 35 ramps to climb to get to the top of the tower(343 ft). This was an unforgettable experience and offered breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Absolutely gorgeous views and worth it! It is stated that the ramps were built inside the bell tower instead of stairways so that the muezzin, who led the call to prayer, could ride his horse to the top of the tower.

• Wander the streets in the quaint Barrio Santa Cruz neighborhood, the former Jewish Quarter of Seville. The charming neighborhood is a labyrinth of narrow, winding cobbled streets and alleys, beautiful white washed houses, flowery courtyards, artisan shops, tapas bars and restaurants, and orange-tree lined squares. It’s easy to get lost in the narrow alleys!

• Real Alcazar- Marvel at the Royal Alcazar of Seville. The oldest Royal Palace in Europe in use and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful palace has a blend of Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance styles- unique aesthetic, so much rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful lush gardens. The Royal Alcazar is a complex of courtyards and palaces that take you back to the 11th century.

FUN FACT: The Alcazar was featured as a filming location for several movies, but also used as a filming location for the fifth season of “Game of Thrones “, episodes 2,5,7,and 9.

• Flamenco Show: Seville is known to be the Birthplace of Flamenco dancing. Spend a memorable night out- Immerse yourself in Andalusian culture at a traditional Flamenco show, feel the rhythm of song, dance, and guitar playing. The intense and dramatic movements convey the emotions of the dancers. There are several venues to choose from and most offer dinner with the show. Skip the dinner show packages and head to El Patio Sevillano for an intimate and traditional flamenco experience. The dancers put on an amazing show, it was full of passion and emotions. I enjoyed a traditional Andalusian meal at Puerta Caleta prior to the show. Excellent service, ambiance, and great food!

2.) Day Trip to Cordoba- a hidden gem in Andalusia, Spain. Cordoba is a city with rich culture, history, and beautiful architecture. It is home to one of Andalucia’s three great monuments: The Mezquita, the other two being Seville’s Alcazar and Granada’s Alhambra.

• Visit The Mezquita de Cordoba, one of the largest Mosques in the world. In 1236, King Ferdinand 111 conquered Cordoba during the Reconquista and converted the Mosque into a Christian Cathedral. The Moorish architecture of Mezquita de Cordoba was significantly altered in the 16th century and was transformed into a soaring cathedral. Admire the arched pillars, mihrab, courtyards and Islamic and Christian architecture. It’s all about the arches- red and white with intricate mosaics.

• Meander the Juderia de Cordoba, The ancient ‘Jewish Quarter of Cordoba ‘ along Calle de los Judios with its labyrinth of cobbled, narrow and winding streets lined with white washed walls, picturesque squares, flower- filled patios and a view of the 16th century Synagogue. Admire the bronze statue of Maimonides, famous Jewish doctor and philosopher of Cordoba.

• Swing by Calleja de las Flores (Flower Alley), one of the most popular and picturesque streets of Cordoba. It’s a narrow alleyway lined with vibrant flowers- geraniums and carnations in blue flower pots hanging on white-washed walls. The city of Cordoba hosts The Courtyards Festival, also known as the Patios Festival in the first two weeks of May. The Festival is a competition where residents open their Courtyards to showcase their colorful blooms to win prestigious recognition.

• Stroll across the impressive Roman Bridge, referred to as the “Old Bridge ” by locals and enjoy picturesque views of the Guadalquivir River. Take photos of the Old Town, there are also street performers on the bridge playing Andalusian instruments.

FUN FACT: The Long Bridge of Volantis from the ‘Game of Thrones ‘, season five was filmed at the Roman Bridge of Cordoba.

Recommendation:

For a savory and tasty quick bite, while exploring, check out Manolas -Empanadas Cordobesas. There are many varieties to choose from, but the lamb and chicken were delicious.

Thank you for reading my blog and I hope it has inspired you to visit the beautiful cities of Seville and Cordoba. I will be posting more on other cities that I visited in Spain.

XOXO, Rochelle