A Romantic Escape to Seville Grand Palaces & Gourmet Strolls

Calling all lovebirds, it’s time for a four-day Sevillian sojourn in a truly special setting. Nestled in gardens bursting with orange trees and jasmine, a few steps from Maria Luisa Park, Santa Cruz and the Alcazar, the Alfonso XIII hotel is undoubtedly an icon of Seville. Opened in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition, it was built to host sovereigns and has since welcomed a long line of prestigious guests – now including you.

As regal as ever, the building has been restored under the watchful eye of the Andalusian and Spanish cultural services. Its Neo-Arab-Andalusian architecture is stunning, while its interiors are grand but never gaudy. The sights of the city are just steps away, ready to be explored, but when you’re not strolling hand-in-hand through the streets, you can enjoy breakfasts on the patio, afternoons in the pool and evenings on the tapas terrace.

Your Itinerary

Situated in the centre of Seville (with a convenient tram at your doorstep), you’ll have quick access to the whole city, making exploring as easy as ever. And to ensure you don’t miss anything essential during your stay, we’ve peppered your itinerary with some highlights.

The first is a private walk focusing on the Moorish architectural heritage of Ishbiliya – the Arabic name for Seville. Venture from the remains of the fortified enclosure and the ancient gates of the medina to the aristocratic palaces of the Golden Age, where Mudejar, Gothic and Italian Renaissance styles intertwine (cameras at the ready).

Next up, visit three of the most beautiful sites in the city: the Alcazar, the Cathedral and the Basilica of the Divine Saviour – all with skip-the-line tickets, of course. Afterwards, enjoy a private gourmet stroll in search of the tasty treats handmade by the monjas de clausura (cloistered nuns who live in seclusion and maintain centuries-old recipes).

The rest of your time in Seville is blissfully fluid, so you can be as spontaneous (or relaxed) as you like. Travelling with a history buff? Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and the Renaissance Palace of the Casa de Pilatos. More of a nature lover? Marvel at the city’s fragrant orange trees on a bike ride. Feeling peckish? Grab some churros con chocolate before heading to the stalls of the Mercado de Triana for some tasty tapas.

Come dinnertime (by which the Spaniards mean 9pm at the earliest), enjoy an intimate meal along the Guadalquivir River. And before you leave, don’t miss the view from the top of the Giralda – sure to be a romantic highlight of your Sevillian sojourn.
Read more