Solo Cultural Adventure in Seville

Seville's Royal Embrace

Today marked the beginning of my solo adventure in Seville, and what a start it was! I dove headfirst into the city's rich history and stunning architecture, experiencing firsthand why Seville is such a beloved destination. The day was a whirlwind of palaces, cathedrals, and charming streets, each corner revealing a new layer of this captivating city. I'm already feeling the warmth of Andalusia and can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

My day began bright and early, fueled by anticipation and a quick taxi ride from the airport to the Basic Hotel Doña Manuela. After settling in, I ventured out to El Pasaje Santa María la Blanca for breakfast. The café was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a taste of Seville. I ordered a traditional *tostada con tomate* and a *café con leche*, a simple yet satisfying way to kick off my exploration. The atmosphere was lively, and I enjoyed soaking in the local vibe before heading to my first major stop: the Royal Alcázar of Seville.


Experience the charm of Seville in Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, a cozy retreat in the historic Jewish quarter with easy access to iconic landmarks.

The Royal Alcázar was nothing short of breathtaking. As I wandered through the palace, I was transported back in time, marveling at the intricate Mudéjar architecture and the lush gardens. The blend of Moorish and Christian influences was evident in every detail, from the delicate tilework to the grand archways. I spent hours exploring the various rooms and courtyards, each more stunning than the last. The Patio de las Doncellas, with its serene beauty, was a particular highlight. I found myself snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the magic of this place. Despite it being January, the gardens were still vibrant with greenery, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. I made sure to book my tickets online in advance, a tip I'd highly recommend to anyone visiting, as it allowed me to skip the long queues and make the most of my time inside.


Explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a stunning blend of architectural styles and lush gardens, steeped in rich history and cultural significance.

To walk through the Alcázar is to step into a living tapestry of history, where every stone and every tile tells a story of cultural fusion and royal ambition.

Leaving the Alcázar, I made my way to the Catedral de Sevilla, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The sheer size of the cathedral is astounding; it's the largest Gothic cathedral in the world! I was immediately struck by its grandeur and the intricate details of its facade. Inside, the cathedral was equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and countless works of art. I spent a considerable amount of time admiring the main altarpiece, a masterpiece of gilded wood carvings depicting scenes from the life of Christ. It was truly awe-inspiring.


Explore the stunning Catedral de Sevilla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing Gothic architecture and rich history in the heart of Seville.

Of course, no visit to the Catedral de Sevilla would be complete without climbing La Giralda, the cathedral's bell tower. Originally built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville, La Giralda offers panoramic views of the city. The climb to the top was surprisingly easy, thanks to the gently sloping ramps that were originally designed for horses. From the top, I could see the entire city spread out before me, a tapestry of rooftops, plazas, and gardens. It was the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Seville and get my bearings for the days ahead. I learned that the cathedral is closed on January 1st and 6th, so I was lucky to have timed my visit just right. The weather in Seville in January is mild, with temperatures hovering around 17°C during the day, making it ideal for exploring.


Explore La Giralda, Seville's majestic bell tower, a stunning blend of Moorish and Renaissance architecture with breathtaking views of the city.

After immersing myself in history and architecture, my stomach started to rumble, reminding me that it was time for lunch. I headed to Restaurante Los Rincones del Marqués, recommended for its traditional Andalusian cuisine. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. I decided to try the *salmorejo*, a cold tomato soup that's a local specialty, and the *rabo de toro*, a hearty oxtail stew. Both dishes were delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in Seville's historic Casco Antiguo at Restaurante Los Rincones del Marqués.

With renewed energy, I set out to explore the city's shops, making a stop at Artesanías de Sevilla. This shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and leather products. I was particularly drawn to the colorful pottery and the intricate designs of the hand-painted fans. I ended up buying a few small souvenirs for Lena and myself, mementos of my first day in Seville. It’s always nice to bring a piece of the places I visit back home, a small reminder of the adventures we’ve shared and the ones to come. I even managed to find a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl that I think Lena will adore. I can already picture it on our dining table in Berlin.


Explore Artesanías de Sevilla for authentic souvenirs reflecting the rich culture and artistry of Seville's vibrant heritage.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Restaurante San Marco Santa Cruz for dinner. Located in the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood, this restaurant offered a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I opted for a pasta dish, craving something familiar after a day of trying new flavors. The pasta was delicious, and the service was excellent. The restaurant was filled with locals and tourists, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurante San Marco in Seville – where every dish tells a story of flavor.

Before heading back to the hotel, I took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Santa Cruz, soaking in the ambiance of this historic neighborhood. The narrow, winding streets were lined with orange trees, their fragrant blossoms filling the air. The sound of flamenco music drifted from the nearby bars, adding to the magical atmosphere. I couldn't resist stopping for a glass of *vino tinto* at a small tapas bar, savoring the moment and reflecting on the incredible day I had experienced. I even picked up a few Spanish phrases, determined to improve my language skills during my stay.

As I walked back to the Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. Seville had already captured my heart with its history, architecture, and vibrant culture. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to visit the Setas de Sevilla, Casa de Pilatos, and the Juderia, and perhaps even enjoy a panoramic view from La Terraza del EME. It's comforting to know that even though Lena isn't here with me, she's always in my thoughts, and I'm collecting memories and stories to share with her when I return to Berlin.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to start my day with breakfast at Petit Comité, followed by a visit to the Metropol Parasol, also known as the Setas de Sevilla. I've heard the views from the top are incredible, and I'm eager to capture some stunning photos. Then, I'll explore the Casa de Pilatos, a beautiful palace that blends Renaissance and Mudéjar styles. In the afternoon, I'll wander through the Judería, the old Jewish quarter, getting lost in its narrow streets and discovering hidden plazas. And to cap off the day, I'm thinking of enjoying a drink at La Terraza del EME, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. It sounds like another amazing day in Seville!

“Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” – Miriam Beard. Today, Seville definitely changed something in me.

Until tomorrow!