24 hours in Seville

Given the current flurry of snow, it's feels rather fitting to relive sunnier days spent in the Andalusian city of Seville. Many overlook this hidden gem opting for Barcelona or Madrid but trust me when I say 'Sevilla' deserves infinite appreciation..

Home to mouthwatering (and budget friendly) tapas, souring temperatures and a bucket load of culture; why wouldn't you want to visit?!


Firstly, if you're spending a week in Marbella - definitely factor in a quick overnight trip to this beautiful city (roughly a stunningly scenic 2h 50min drive). Alternatively, it's a perfect getaway for 1-2 nights with cheap flights running from all major airports.


Peter drove. I napped. The car navigated. Hallelujah! If we mixed up this algorithm I'm fairly certain we would've ended up in Madrid, or France. Why? Errrr - I can't navigate (successfully), or drive (safely) abroad. Trust me...

Excited and eager to explore, we pulled up to our home for the night; the iconic Hotel Alfonso XIII (here). When I say iconic, you soon see why...

Honestly, it felt like we were staying in a luxurious set of a BBC period drama. The grandeur, Andalusian style and architecture are certainly unique to the hotel and add to its opulent Spanish charm.

If you're a Game of Thrones fan, then you m-u-s-t visit the sensational Alcázar castle (here) aka The Gardens of Dorne (season 5).

You'll join hoards of tourists alike but trust me, it's worth visiting. Wander round the gardens..

Gaze at the beautiful Moorish details..If you're a #ihavethisthingwithfloors follower on IG then you'll be in heaven here..

When you've finished, navigate your way through the cobbled streets to the strums of musicians..

Maybe grab a gelato..

Or why not pick up some loose tea?

Then hop, skip and jump to the breathtaking cathedral. Trust me when I say it's of monumental proportions, perhaps not as iconic as St. Peter's Basilica (for obvious reasons) but still spectacular in its own right as it's the third largest church in the world.

Also check out the Museum of Fine Arts as well (here)..

As well as every smaller church, pop in and admire the ornate details..

Somewhat drained from the soaring temperatures (which are prone to hit high 30's) we slinked back to our hotel.

The staff kindly upgraded us to a suite, which was sensational although I must say I was a sad panda at the fact we had only booked to stay one night. Epic fail!

Next stop? TAPAS!

If you're in the city then you absolutely must visit La Brunilda Tapas (here) for mouth watering tapas at an equally mouth watering price. Go wild, order as much as you want, enjoy the Spanish wine BUT do arrive early as the restaurant is always queued.

I must say Hotel Alfonso boasts a wonderful breakfast, and as a breakfast kinda gal I must hammer this home. I reckon it's because the hotel is a huge hit with Americans meaning their breakfast caters to both an array of European and American tastebuds.

If you fancy doing some shopping then you're in luck as Seville is quaint but packed full of my favourite Spanish stores Zara, Pull & Bear, Massimo Dutti etc. Granted the Sephora sucks but such is life!

When ready to depart make sure you drive back to Marbella via the mountaintop city of Ronda. Despite being dubbed a city it's tiny in size which makes it an ideal scenic pit stop on the road home..

Pick up some local cheese, chorizo or wine..

Make friends with the locals..

Ditch your diet..

And finally, soak up the incredible views. Absolutely breathtaking.

Beyond the beaches, white sand and Spanish shops lie mountains, roads and beautiful architecture to be discovered. So when you're thinking of a weekend abroad, be sure to include Seville as an option.

Ps. The food is incredibly delicious and oh so cheap - we couldn't believe just how cheap it is! Viva España!