After visiting the Mezquita we head towards
Seville, release the car to the Santa Justa train station, and you reach the hotel near Occidental, modern 4 star hotel that occupies a distinctive building. The hotel has all the amenities, including a large swimming pool area there is relief to escape from the afternoon of August calienta Andalusian. The historic center of the city, including the Cathedral, is easily reachable in 10 minutes by bus. The same evening we head along the road surrounded by tall palm trees lining the river, dominated by the Moorish Torre del Oro, from here that the one-hour cruise along the Guadalquivir (14 euros), but the view is not much, except for the typical houses of the Triana district overlooking the River. For dinner we head towards the most typical district of the city, the Barrio de Santa Cruz, where the choice of premises is endless, including tourist menus, bars and restaurants specializing in tapas. Unreal atmosphere in the Barrio, between small and lively squares, narrow streets where the houses almost touch without leaving room for the sky, flowered balconies and grilles on the windows features. The next morning we are among the first entry of the Reales Alcazares and visit the ancient fortress, then a royal residence, with more calm (admission 5 euros). Inside (which is rather reminiscent of the Alhambra), there are the many architectural styles that characterized its history and the rulers of
Seville, from Arab to reach the Catholic Kings. As usual, the most spectacular we have in the Arab period, especially the palace of Don Pedro, where stuccoes azulejos and finely decorated rooms that open on nice patios. Charming the outside gardens with fountains, palm trees and pavilions. After visiting we head by bus to the Plaza Espana, one of the most characteristic places I have ever seen, although it should be noted that its construction is relatively recent. Two tall towers demarcate a huge semi-circle construction, where his feet are portrayed the historical events of the Spanish provinces. All this surrounded by artificial canals, which should enhance the beauty, but unfortunately is currently under renovation, and the water remains a mirage. In front of the square lies the peaceful and relaxing park of Maria Luisa, where you can take a walk among palm trees and lakes, including the traditional building which houses the Museum of Fine Arts The evening is dedicated to an exciting and memorable show Flamenco at Casa de la Memoria in the Barrio Santa Cruz. The following day we dedicate the remainder of the city, starting from the Basilica of Macarena, famous for hosting inside the most revered Virgin of
Seville, and during the fair in April is carried in procession between the various roads of the city. Continue between the central shopping streets, walking along the Calle Sierpes elegant, with a brief stop at the Capilla S. Jose, a triumph of the baroque, and go to Plaza Salvador, the Ayuntinamento (town hall) and Calle Hernando with its typical buildings, including the most spectacular monuments and important, the Cathedral with the Giralda, which we visit on Sunday afternoon ( when entry is free, otherwise 8 euros). Plaza Virgen de los Reyes is the best view of the complex: in the first floor overlooking the Giralda, a minaret time now bell symbol of
Seville Giraldillo surmounted by a revolving bronze representing the Faith. Unfortunately for some time because it will not be running in restoration. Passing through the front door, you can imagine to have been one of the greatest cathedrals of Europe, between aisles and numerous immense Gothic chapels, where impossible not to notice the Capilla Mayor with the Retablo, a waterfall of gold with 44 panels depicting biblical scenes. Passing in front of the tomb of Columbus, you enter the ramp to reach the top of the Giralda, where the view of the city is magnificent. After dinner we transfer to the Real Maestranza, the glorious arena of
Seville, one of the oldest in Spain. Beyond the corrida (early summer at 21), it is worth visiting both externally to the typical baroque facade, both internally to the glance which reserves to the visitor. .... Then the fight is another story!
Useful tips Six days in Andalusian luxury for the price of Rimini. Often travel can cost less than it seems in appearance, and a wonderful tour in some of the most characteristic areas of Europe may be more economical than a week of leisure in the opulent Italian beaches (not talking of Sardinia, I speak of the Romagna Riviera .. .), with the possibility of using, among other structures even more luxurious.
It 'surely the case of Andalusia. How? I can tell you as I have done. Ryanair is the only company that allows you to directly reach
Seville from Italy (Milan-Bergamo Orio al Serio). For a brief taste of Andalusia, or only visit
Seville, Granada and Cordoba enough 6 days (5 nights). We speak of course of a visit quick and superficial. E 'enough to book a flight with 3-4 months in advance to make sure rates, up to 200 euros per couple per return. Be expected based insurance against the "limits and risks of low-cost (cancellation, delay, baggage, etc.). Insurance is always with Ryanair subscription when purchasing the ticket price € 28 x two people). To reach the other cities, the best way is to rent a car (alternatively there is a good bus service). Price for a car for 3 days, with Avis, € 133 (you can also save money with local companies). Retreat at the airport, to be issued at the station in the center of
Seville. Free highways between
Seville and Granada-Cordoba-
Seville. Excellent state (N432) through the campaign with typical Andalusian pueblo between Granada-Cordoba. Unleaded petrol less than 1 euro per liter. Accommodation: I planned a night in Granada, Cordoba and one in three to
Seville. Ryanair lands in
Seville in the morning at 9.30, which remains throughout the morning for transfer to Granada and the entire afternoon / evening and next morning to visit the city and the Alhambra.
The following day is devoted to a visit to Cordoba, while the next two days are for
Seville. Overnight (tested and recommended): price per double room including breakfast in the hotel 4 stars (you can save money by sleeping in hostals which are not hostels but pensioncine): Granada: Hotel Sercotel Carmen, Central, € 75.00 (best rate on bookings.net) Cordoba: Hotel Conquistador, centralissimo, € 77.00 (best rate on bookings.net)
Seville: Occidental Hotel, 1 km. from the center, € 64.00 (best rate on hotels Ryanair) For two people: € 200 (flight), € 28 (insurance), € 133 (car), € 344 (hotels) Total done soon: € 705 (350 per person), except of course the extras. (tour operator for a slightly fuller calling around 1,000 euros per person!) Dinner is decidedly economic satisfied if you: many restaurants offer menus in tourist discrete 9-12 euros, including a varied selection of starters (gazpacho, paella, soups number) of seconds (meat, fish), desserts (ice cream, caramel or fruit), wine or water. Alternatively you can provide a tasting of 5 tapas (about 10 euro), which ultimately becomes a complete and varied meal. They say that in Granada are free, of course you must know the premises just because I have paid them normally. Tips: Of course in July and August are the months less appropriate, especially for those suffering from the heat.