Sevilla

Flight: Jet2 - Leeds Bradford Airport to Malaga

https://www.jet2.com

Travel: Train booked with RENFE  from Malaga to Sevilla

https://www.renfe.com/

Hotel Casa Imperial

Hotel Casa Imperial, Seville: Info, Photos, Reviews | Book at Hotels.com

We visited La Giralda, the Cathedral with its iconic Moorish tower, a symbol of Seville’s layered history. The Moors ruled here for about 400 years until the 1200s, and climbing the steep ramps of the tower gave us not only a good workout but also breathtaking views of the city.

The Alcazar Palace was another highlight, its intricate architecture and lush gardens making it a must-see. Walking through the historical streets of Seville is an experience in itself, full of vibrant atmosphere and history around every corner.

This time, we also visited the Casa de Pilatos, which, although smaller than the Alcazar, offered a more intimate glimpse of Moorish architecture. Its pretty garden and proximity to our hotel made it a lovely and convenient stop.

We couldn’t resist exploring the Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas. This massive timber structure allowed us to walk along its winding pathways and take in some of the best views of the city, and underneath, we explored the archaeological museum with remnants from Roman and Moorish times.

We also enjoyed a relaxing afternoon in the sprawling Parque de María Luisa, a lush park filled with fountains, statues, and shaded paths that lead to the beautiful Plaza de América. It was the perfect place to unwind after all the sightseeing.

One of the most memorable parts of our visit was experiencing "Three Kings Day," also known as the "Cabalgata de Reyes," on the 5 January. The lively parade, with sweets thrown to the crowd, was a joyous spectacle, and we got a real sense of how passionately the Spanish celebrate their festivals. We were at the front of the crowd, and although we got hit by a few sweets, it was worth it to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the event.

We also took in a traditional flamenco show at Casa de la Memoria, which was an intense and captivating experience that made us feel the heart of Andalusian culture.

Of course, no trip would be complete without sampling the local flavors, so we wandered through the Mercado de Triana, mixing with locals and tasting fresh produce, cheeses, and jamón.

All in all, Seville is a city where every street and plaza invites you to linger and soak in the rich history and lively culture.