Holidays to Sevilla

Seville is an enchanting mix of Roman, Moorish and Spanish influences. Southwestern Spain's cultural and artistic centre, it sits on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. The two most interesting parts of the city, Triana and Old Town, are divided by the river.

Old Town is centred around the cathedral and its tower (La Giralda), the Moorish palace and the former Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz. Triana, on the other side of the river, is full of artisan shops, markets and quaint bars. Seville city breaks of any duration will always create long-lasting memories.

Before setting off on weekend or package holidays in Seville, you should know that the city's airport, located 10km northeast of the city, is well connected to it by public transport. There are many direct flights to Seville, including flights from London and Manchester.

UK citizens won't need a visa to visit Spain. The country is one hour ahead of the UK, and Spanish is the predominant language. Taxi stands can be found directly at the airport exit, and the average travel time to the centre is half an hour and costs between 20 and 30 Euros, depending on the time of the day.

Spring is by far the most enchanting time to travel to Andalusia, as the orange and almond trees that line the streets are blossoming and the air is full of their subtle fragrance. Additionally, the season brings two interesting events: the sombre processions of Lent and Easter Week and the colourful Seville Fair two weeks after Easter. As this is a very busy time of year, it's suggested that you make reservations for your flight and hotel in Seville well in advance.

In autumn and winter, temperatures are mild and rainy days the exception. These are great times for city breaks in Seville – visit its outstanding museums and explore the many artisan markets that pop up all over the city during Advent.

During a weekend in Seville, a river cruise along the Guadalquivir is a good way to explore the city from a unique viewpoint and to get the lay of the land before setting out on foot. Equally fascinating is a climb of La Giralda tower to enjoy its bird's-eye view over Santa Cruz, the Old Town and wider Seville. Head to the Santa Cruz quarter to take part in a favourite pastime among Sevillanos: sit in a tapas bar, enjoy a glass of fine wine, and watch the world go by.

No night out in town would be complete without flamenco, the dance Andalusia is famous for. While some package holidays in Seville may include a flamenco performance, the best performances can be seen at the Museum of Flamenco.

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See is, without a doubt, the heart of Seville and one of the largest Gothic churches worldwide. It also houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The Real Alcázar, the royal palace of former Moorish rulers, boasts truly magnificent architecture and gardens. Save at least one day during your city break in Seville to explore them in detail and to learn more about Seville's fascinating past. Don't miss the onsite ceramic tile museum and its exhaustive collection of colourful tiles from Roman times until today.

If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Seville.

Gastronomy

Seville's cuisine is dominated by the natural treasures of its surroundings, including fish and seafood from the nearby coast, almonds and oranges from the surrounding orchards, and olives and olive oils from the ancient groves – some of them dating back to Roman times. Recommended dishes:

• Garbanzos con espinacas (chickpeas with spinach)
• Huevos a la flamenca (fried eggs on a bed of vegetables)
• Gazpacho and salmorejo (cold vegetable and tomato soups)
• Jamón ibérico (dry-cured ham from free-range, acorn-fed, black Iberian pigs)
• Torta Inglesa (pastry filled with pumpkin jam and cinnamon)

What souvenirs should you bring back home?

Cross the bridge over the Guadalquivir into Triana, and you'll be in the middle of the artisan district. Here you can find decorative ceramics, fans and many other handmade products. Another great souvenir to bring home is food. Tasty jamón ibérico and regional cheeses are available from the local markets. Alternatively, take some oranges home, either in form of marmalade, fragrant cosmetics or perfumed candles. Add to this a CD of flamenco music and you can relive your weekend in Seville over and over.