The Spanish singer Lola Flores once said, "Seville is like dreaming of heaven." Her celestial comparisons are hard to argue with; whether for the charm of its streets, the fiery pride of its people, or the rich artistry of its culture, the capital of Andalusia is truly one of Spain's most captivating destinations. It's a city bursting with creativity, from traditional crafts, music, and dance to contemporary innovation in art and design. And now, looking to the future, Seville aims to become one of Europe's leading cities for smart, sustainable tourism.
Named European Capital of Smart Tourism 2023, Seville is promoting greener approaches to holiday making and eco-friendly mobility around town is just one of them. There are now 180 kilometres of bike lanes across Seville, which means there's no better time to take a pedal around this flat, cyclable town. So pick up a bike from the public SEVICI service (spot the red branding) to glide through leafy parks and splendid streets in the glorious weather. Try the Maria Luisa Park-formerly the gardens of the San Telmo Palace and full of romantic fountains and gazebos-or veer slightly out of the centre to the Alamillo Park, located on the Isla de la Cartuja.
Another great way to get around is by water. With its dreamy views and rich history, the Guadalquivir River has shaped the identity of Seville, countless songs and poems. Take a boat ride to float down its bends and curves while admiring sites like the Torre del Oro, the bullring Real Maestranza de Caballería, the San Telmo Palace, and the 18th-century tobacco factory immortalised by Bizet's opera, Carmen. Don't miss the colourful façade of Betis Street or iconic bridges like the 19th-century Puente de Triana.
If you're feeling energetic, the river is also popular for kayaking, rowing, and paddle surfing.
PALACES & PLAZAS
This story is from the May - June - July 2024 edition of Condé Nast Traveller India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May - June - July 2024 edition of Condé Nast Traveller India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Made In Nagaland
From home textiles to jewellery, clothing, and more, here are the 10 Naga craft brands you need to know. By Sohini Dey
TOKYO RIGHT NOW
As impossible to pigeonhole as ever, the Japanese capital is buzzing with fresh influences and new ideas
RAISING RAI: WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS
Raghu and Avani Rai on connecting via worlds seen through their lenses.
GILDED WATERS
Paula Hardy boards one of the last remaining dahabiyas on the Nile for a different perspective of Egypt's storied river
THE GIRL WITH GRAND DESIGNS
Gauravi Kumari is part of Jaipur's new creative set that is bringing fresh perspectives to the city's design legacy.
A FACE FOR ADVENTURE
Retooling the iconic Rolex GMT-Master II for fresh explorations.
THE GRAND seduction
Palermo's chaos, swagger, and temperamental charm cast a hypnotic spell.
Rhythm Divine
Wherever you go in Gwalior, the myth and magic of Tansen are inescapable, as Sam Dalrymple finds out.
IDEAL WORLD
Palestinian chef Fadi Kattan explains why he went ahead with the publication of Bethlehem, his celebratory cookbook.
NUJUMA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE SAUDI ARABIA
On alittle-visited Red Sea archipelago, the Middle East’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve reflects both untapped nature and hyperreal modernity, finds Noo Saro-Wiwa.