How often have you dreamed about dropping everything and jetting off to an exotic destination with your sweetheart? It may not be as crazy a fantasy as you think. Stunning, vibrant Seville is right on your doorstep, less than three hours away by air. From carriage rides to couple’s massages, from palm trees to palaces, Seville can fulfil your most romantic fantasies – you might even learn to dance the flamenco!
So take Friday off, pack a small case, grab your beloved’s hand, and get ready to fall in love all over again.
What to Do
Barrio de Santa Cruz
The first place you’ll want to visit is this charming barrio, or ‘neighbourhood’. This charming part of Seville is the primary tourist area in the city – and for good reason. The narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, colourful gardens, and hidden plazas lined with orange trees all make for a delightful and picturesque wander.
The main sights in this neighbourhood include the Seville Cathedral (the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site); the Giralda Tower (a 104-metre former minaret and one of Seville’s most recognisable symbols); and the Hospital de los Venerables (a 17th century building which used to house priests).
And of course, don’t miss the chance to mingle with the locals and enjoy authentic Spanish tapas at one of the many cafés located throughout this historic area!
Maria Luisa Park & Plaza de España
If you’re looking for refuge from the hot Andalusian sun, we recommend stepping into Maria Luisa Park, a 100-acre green space that stretches along the Guadalquivir River. Stroll on winding paths under palms, pines, and orange trees, feed the ducks and swans in the many ponds and fountains, or simply relax on a bench in the shade.
For a truly romantic outing, you and your partner can hire a rowboat on the moat in front of Plaza de España – a beautiful Moorish Revival-style building that towers over the northern end of the park. As you float through the calm waters surrounded by doves, parrots, and exotic flowers, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported straight into the pages of a romance novel!
Av. de María Luisa, s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
+34 954 21 00 05
Hours: 8am-10pm Sep-Jun, 8am-midnight Jul & Aug
Entrance to the park is free. Row boat rental is €5.
Paseo de las Delicias
Amble along the Guadalquivir River on this scenic walkway, which runs from the park up to another famous Seville landmark, the Torre del Oro. Translated literally as “Tower of Gold”, the Torre del Oro was built as a military watchtower in the 13th century by the Almohad dynasty, which ruled the region at the time. Today, the tower houses the maritime museum, and it is still lit up with golden floodlights every night. As you walk down the broad Paseo (which is also open to cyclists), you can take in the beautiful river views and maybe enjoy a stolen kiss with your loved one.
Carriage Ride
If you get tired of walking, catch a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city. Not only is it a romantic way to enjoy the city sights with your partner, it’s also extremely time-efficient for weekend travellers who may have only 48 hours to spend in Seville. On the way, your driver will point out such famous Seville landmarks as the Teatro Lope de Vega, the tobacco factory, the Giralda Tower, and the grand Hotel Alfonso XIII.
You can hire a carriage at any of the several stations located throughout the city: at the Cathedral (worth a look in itself!), the Torre del Oro, the Maestranza bullring, or at the Plaza De America at the southern end of Maria Luisa Park.
Tours last around 60 minutes and cost between €35 and €50.
Alcázar of Seville
No trip to Seville is complete without a visit to this dazzling royal palace – one of the oldest still in use in Europe. Originally built as a fort in the 10th century, subsequent generations of Muslim and Christian rulers built the Alcázar into a magnificent palace. Today the Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the upper levels of the palace are still used as an official Spanish royal residence.
As you walk across wide patios and under arches, you’ll get a strong sense of Seville’s Moorish history. This sprawling, exotic structure is an outstanding example of mudéjar – the style of Iberian architecture and decoration strongly influenced by Moorish and Christian traditions living side by side.
Enter through the Puerta del Léon, stroll through the lush, heavenly gardens, and admire at elaborate, geometric brick and tile work that adorns the walls and ceilings – it’s only a matter of time before you and your partner fall in love with the Alcázar and with Seville!
Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Tel: +34 954 50 23 24
Hours: 9.30am-7pm Apr-Sep, to 9:30am-5pm Oct-Mar
Prices: €9.50 for adults
Aire de Sevilla
After a day or two of walking around the city, you might be ready for some pampering. Treat yourselves to a few hours at the Aire de Sevilla, a luxurious spa offering everything from traditional thermal hammam baths to chocolate massages. The spa offers an array of couples massages and therapies, so you can soak in the relaxing atmosphere with the one you love.
Calle Aire, 15, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Tel: +34 955 01 00 26
Hours: 10am-10pm Sunday-Thursday 10am-12am Friday & Saturday
How to Get to Seville
With only a weekend to spare, you’ll no doubt want to fly from London to Seville. Average flight time is just over two and a half hours with nonstop flight from airlines such as Ryanair, British Airways, easyJet, and Iberia.
One you’ve landed, why waste precious time figuring out public transport or car hire in a different language? Seville airport transfers are the obvious choice for the on-the-go couple. Use our simple online booking system to have a car with personal driver waiting for you at arrivals.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Amadeus & La Musica – Located right in the middle of Barrio Santa Cruz, this three-star hotel is the perfect launching pad for your weekend in Seville. Relax over breakfast on the rooftop terrace, from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the Cathedral and Giralda. The Hotel Amadeus & La Musica, as you can probably guess from the name, is themed around classical music. Harps, violins, and other instruments adorn the lobby, and you’ll find music-inspired artwork on nearly every wall. Continuing the theme, the hotel also has a classical music library and a CD player in each room – so you can set the soundtrack of your romantic weekend!
Vincci La Rabida – This four-star hotel, also conveniently located in the heart of the historic Santa Cruz area, is set in an 18th century mansion that has maintained many of its traditional features. From the typical Andalusian courtyard to the colourful tiles, you’ll feel totally immersed in the spirit of Seville. Vincci La Rabida boasts two exclusive restaurants offering the cuisine of the region.
Hotel Doña María – Can you really beat a hotel set inside a former 14th century palace? This five-star hotel oozes luxury and sophistication, from the rooftop swimming pool to the classic period furniture. Just a stone’s throw from the heart of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, the Hotel Doña María is a opulent base from which to explore Seville with your sweetheart.
About Shuttle Direct
For the most convenient, easy to book airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct’s fast and friendly service offers peace of mind and exceptional service. Book a shared or private transfer online before you leave home and our experienced drivers will meet you at the airport and transport you to and from your holiday accommodation without delay. Choose Shuttle Direct for the best airport transfers in the business.
