Seville Travelers Recommend

Sizzling, stylish and spirited – that’s Seville. Standing proudly on the banks of the Río Guadalquivir, Andalucía’s capital dances to its own exhilarating beat. Whether you’re getting lost in its narrow streets and hidden squares, marveling at Moorish masterpieces, or partying with the Sevillanos at one of their famous fiestas, you’ll be spellbound by this vibrant city. Pack your camera, and hit the streets to discover Seville’s lesser known gems. La Macarena’s ancient Roman sites, baroque and gothic churches, Renaissance palaces and monasteries will delight you – as will its authentic, old-style tapas bars. Back in the heart of things, El Arenal is a must-see for its legendary bullring and idyllic tree-lined promenade, Paseo de Cristóbal Colón. Linger a few hours in Santa Cruz’s gorgeous white-washed laneways and flower-filled patios, before getting your obligatory flamenco fix in the evening.

From Iceland’s sweeping glaciers and snow-covered lava fields to Croatia’s imposing sea fortresses and golden sand beaches, the list of Game of Thrones filming locations already reads like a roll call of the world’s most spectacular destinations. Since the fantasy-drama series first took off in 2011, Game of Thrones tours have proved a popular way for fans to discover the real-life locations around the globe, and with seasons five and six recently confirmed by HBO, another top destination has made the cut—Seville in Southern Spain. The most hotly anticipated plot-line for the show's fifth season is the introduction of Dorne, the southernmost realm of the Seven Kingdoms, and the hot, dusty climes and rugged mountains of Spain's Andalucía are sure to make a memorable backdrop. Cast and crew members are being predictably tight-lipped about the exact filming locations, but one spot that has been confirmed is the grand Alcázar of Seville.

When it comes to flamenco, Seville is the best. But the ideal kind of venue depends on the type of flamenco you wish to see. When in Seville, here are your top options.TablaosThe flamenco tablaos typically attract internationally acclaimed dancers, providing a professional presentation in an often theater-like setting. These are entertaining and impressive.BarsFor a potentially more authentic experience, you might want to instead head to a flamenco bar. These are cheaper and you should expect improvised entertainment that allows for a more traditional vibe.PeñasThese cultural associations are dedicated to the art of flamenco, and nurture up-and-coming artists. They provide a great setting for watching flamenco in a more casual setting.Regardless of where you decide to get your dose of flamenco, you may want to consider a stop at Seville’s Flamenco Museum, where you can gain a better understanding of its tradition and history.