About El Arenal
Seville is the buzzing capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, famous for its vibrant dance culture and spectacular architecture. Wander from imposing Gothic cathedrals to majestic Moorish palaces, connected by labyrinth-like twisting streets. At night, the city comes alive in its numerous flamenco clubs where you'll see passionate performances. Go on a pub crawl to stand elbow to elbow with locals at some of the city’s 3,000 tapas bars.
You can stay in a hostel in Seville with extra-large beds in the city’s historic centre, a modern art-inspired renovated house or a restored townhouse in the romantic Barrio Santa Cruz neighbourhood. Most Seville hostels are within walking distance of all the main sights, with some hostels offering free walking tours. Cool off in a Seville hostel on a rooftop terrace and admire breathtaking views of the cathedral.
Seville’s old town lies to the right of the Guadalquivir River, which passes through the city. Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter, is a picture-perfect neighbourhood of cobblestone alleyways leading from the cathedral to hidden, flower-filled plazas. At the port, El Arenal is an upmarket area with sights including a gate from the old city walls and a Moorish tower. Triana is an up-and-coming neighbourhood across the river with a strong flamenco culture and vibrant market providing produce for authentic tapas bars.
The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, the Catedral de Sevilla houses Columbus’ tomb and has a 12th-century minaret. Nearby, another key sight is the Real Alcázar. Featured in Game Of Thrones, this palace complex combines intricate Christian and Mudéjar architecture of jaw-dropping beauty. You can wander around Plaza de España, a vast square with grand buildings, tiled areas in tribute to Spain’s 48 provinces and a canal. Look out for opportunities to see flamenco dancing, from large-scale productions to atmospheric shows in small clubs.
Seville is best explored on foot, particularly the old town, or you can use the SEVici bike-sharing scheme. The metro is small but efficient for travel to the suburbs. Seville Airport is 7km from the city and the EA Bus connects with the centre. Estación de Autobuses Plaza de Armas is Seville’s main bus station, 1.3km from the cathedral, with regular buses departing for other Andalusian cities. Estación Santa Justa, the main train station, is 1.5km from the centre with high-speed trains to Madrid and Córdoba.