Our adventure began with a 50-minute delay on our British Airways flight, meaning we arrived late on Friday night. While the delay was an inconvenience, stepping off the plane and into Seville’s mild 20°C evening air quickly made up for it. We hopped into the comfort of the cab at the airport and travelled into the city’s streets – calm but full of charm. Though it was too late to properly explore, we were already enchanted by Seville’s atmosphere.
Our first full day began with breakfast at La Tita Rita, a cosy café tucked away in the city. The tostadas – simple toasted bread topped with ingredients like crushed tomatoes and olive oil – were the perfect start to the day. There’s something delightful about starting your morning like a local, with flavours that are fresh, yet unfussy.
With energy to spare, we embarked on a morning walk through the San Julián and Casco Antiguo districts. These areas are quintessential Seville: narrow streets lined with colourful, timeworn buildings, adorned with wrought-iron balconies overflowing with plants. It felt like the city was alive with history, every corner inviting us to stop and take in its beauty.
From there, we headed into the city centre to visit Las Setas, officially known as the Metropol Parasol. This massive, modern wooden structure is unlike anything else in Seville, offering a bold contrast to the city’s historic skyline. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city; a sweeping vista of terracotta rooftops, church spires, and the distant Guadalquivir River.
Next on our list was the Seville Cathedral, a monumental Gothic masterpiece. The sheer scale of the cathedral left us in awe. Although we didn’t climb the Giralda Tower ourselves, its often a highlight for others. We rounded off our daytime explorations at the Plaza de España, and it didn’t disappoint either. Walking into this vast square is like entering a fairytale. The crescent-shaped building is decorated with stunning ceramic tiles, while a canal winds through its centre, crossed by ornate bridges. The afternoon sunlight bathed everything in golden hues, making it one of the most breathtaking spots in the city.
That evening, we dove headfirst into Seville’s cultural heart with a flamenco show at Carbonería Flamenco, nestled away in a rustic venue on a narrow street, with its cobbles glowing softly under the city’s streetlights. There are performances every hour, on the half hour, from 20:30 to 23:30. We saw the 21:30 performance, which was intimate and raw. The dancers, singers, and guitarists brought an emotional intensity that sent shivers down our spines. It was a night of unforgettable passion and artistry, and we left feeling deeply moved.
On Sunday, we crossed the Guadalquivir River to the Triana district, a neighbourhood with its own distinct character. Known for its ceramic shops and artistic vibe, Triana feels like a world within Seville. We strolled along the riverbank, taking in views of the city from the opposite side, and wandered through its streets, soaking up the atmosphere along the way.
In the afternoon, we shifted gears to explore modern Seville with a visit to the Eurostars Tower (Torre Pelli). This sleek skyscraper offers a completely different perspective of the city, with its observation deck providing stunning views that stretch far into the horizon. It was fascinating to see Seville’s blend of old and new from such a high vantage point.
All too soon, our city break came to an end. Monday morning was spent packing and savouring one last cafe con leche before heading to the airport. Unfortunately, our British Airways flight home was delayed by 90 minutes, extending the bittersweet goodbye.
Seville in November is a dream destination. The mild, sunny weather made it perfect for wandering the city’s streets, while its rich history, stunning landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene gave us plenty to explore. Highlights like the Plaza de España, Torre Pelli and the flamenco at Carbonería were unforgettable, but so too were the quieter moments – walking through Triana, sipping coffee in hidden courtyards, and marvelling at the city’s architecture.
Despite the delays on both ends of our journey, Seville exceeded our expectations. For anyone considering a city break that blends history, culture, and relaxation, we can’t recommend this Andalusian gem enough. If you’re lucky, you’ll visit on a November weekend like ours, with blue skies overhead and the warmth of the city wrapping around you like a hug.
Cape Town
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