Seville

Seville is the heart of Andalusia and one of the most fascinating cities in Europe. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Cathedral — the largest Gothic cathedral in the world — and its iconic Giralda, the former minaret of the Almohad mosque turned bell tower. The Guadalquivir River, which crosses the city, was for centuries the gateway to the New World: from here the expeditions that changed history set sail.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville is a palace that has been in use for over a thousand years. Its halls and gardens blend Islamic, Mudejar, Gothic and Renaissance art in a uniquely beautiful ensemble. The Alcázar, the Cathedral with Columbus's tomb, and the Archive of the Indies form the UNESCO complex that no visitor should miss. The Santa Cruz quarter, with its narrow streets, courtyards and shaded squares, is the perfect place to get lost and feel the soul of Seville.

Seville's Holy Week is one of the most intense and moving in the world. Brotherhoods parade through the centre with floats depicting the Passion, accompanied by the smell of incense and the respectful silence of thousands. The April Fair, on the other hand, transforms the city into a celebration of marquees, flamenco dresses, horses and rebujito. Both events attract visitors from all over the world and define the festive and religious character of Seville.

Sevillan gastronomy is pure Andalusia: gazpacho and salmorejo to beat the heat, fried fish in Triana and La Macarena, oxtail stew, papas aliñás and spinach with chickpeas. Bars and taverns serve generous tapas with manzanilla or fino from Jerez. Rebujito — manzanilla with lime soda — is the official drink of the Fair. Don't leave without trying convent sweets: torrijas, yemas de San Leandro or tortas de aceite.

Seville is also the birthplace of flamenco: in the Triana quarter and historic tablaos you can experience duende live. The city has an international airport and is connected by high-speed rail to Madrid and Barcelona. Summer is extremely hot; the best time to visit is spring (April-May), when the orange trees bloom and Holy Week and the April Fair take place, or autumn (September-October), with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.