Seville Captivates with Historic Splendor and Vibrant Culture

A City Steeped in History and Architectural Grandeur

Seville, Spain, offers visitors an unforgettable experience, boasting three UNESCO World Heritage sites, numerous museums, lush parks, and magnificent stately homes. The city seamlessly blends ancient traditions with a lively modern spirit, promising something for every traveler.

Iconic Landmarks and Artistic Treasures

Dominating the skyline, the Cathedral of Santa María de la Headquarters stands as the third-largest church globally. Its renowned bell tower, the Giralda, offers panoramic views visible from nearly every corner of the city. For a convenient visit, booking tickets online is highly recommended to bypass queues. Alternatively, a combined ticket with the Church of the Divine Saviour allows direct entry.

The Royal Alcázar, still utilized by the Spanish royal family, is a breathtaking palace showcasing a fusion of Islamic, Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance architectural styles. Its opulent gardens, alive with peacocks, provide a tranquil escape.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville, a stunning palace with diverse architectural influences.

The Plaza de España, constructed for the 1929 Expo and situated within María Luisa Park, mesmerizes with its vibrant tiled alcoves depicting each Spanish province. Its picturesque fountains and bridges have served as filming locations for movies like “Star Wars: Episode II.”

For a striking contemporary landmark, the Metropol Parasol, affectionately known as “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms) by locals, looms over the Plaza de la Encarnación. This wooden structure houses restaurants, a market, and a museum, with its elevated walkway offering exceptional city vistas.

Seville, Spain travel guide: Must-see sites and dining in Andalusia’s capital — A vibrant street scene in Seville, showcasing the city’s charm.

Exploring Triana and Shopping Havens

Across the Isabel II bridge lies the colorful neighborhood of Triana, renowned for its ceramic shops and authentic tapas bars. A must-try local specialty is Cazón en adobo, a flavorful dish of marinated dogfish.

For a shopping excursion, the Sierpes and Messrs streets in the old town offer a wide array of European brands and traditional shops selling items like Spanish shawls (mantones).

The English Court department store in Plaza del Duque de la Victoria is a retail paradise, featuring designer concessions, a gourmet food hall, and a supermarket stocked with local delicacies. In 2023, Spanish retail sales saw a notable increase, indicating a healthy consumer market for such establishments. (Source: Statista)

A bustling shopping street in Seville, offering diverse retail options.

Culinary Delights and Evening Ambiance

Seville’s dining scene is dynamic, offering everything from Michelin-starred establishments to casual tapas bars. Dining traditionally starts later, between 9 pm and 10:30 pm, often accompanied by pre-dinner drinks at rooftop bars, providing a perfect setting to enjoy the sunset.

The Ravine Market is an ideal spot for indecisive diners, featuring a global array of food options and seating both indoors and outdoors.

For an exquisite dining experience, “The Corners of the Marquis,” located within the 18th-century Hotel Villapanés, serves authentic Andalusian cuisine. The table-made tiramisu is a highly recommended treat.

An elegant courtyard dining setting at The Corners of the Marquis.

“Grandfather’s Garage,” a restaurant set in a former carriage house, offers an elegant yet cozy atmosphere with impeccable service and memorable cuisine.

Ozama Hunting, nestled in the Porvenir district, provides a sophisticated dining experience in a modernist villa. Its stylish pergola seating, under a canopy of fairy lights, is perfect for enjoying contemporary dishes and tapas.

For classic tapas, Marabunda, Lobo López, and Postigo Abaceria are excellent choices in the old town, while Maravilla Social Club is known for its exceptional patatas bravas.

Rooftop Bars and Lively Plazas

Seville offers a perfect blend of chic rooftop bars and traditional cervecerias. The Salvador Plaza is a lively hub where fashion-forward individuals and students gather outside bars like The Old Warehouse to enjoy affordable drinks.

The historic Iglesia Del Divino Salvador church in Seville.

Garlochí bar offers a uniquely eclectic ambiance, decorated with religious memorabilia and velvet, serving a daring signature cocktail, “Sangue de Cristo.”

As temperatures rise, Seville’s rooftop bars become prime destinations for their cool breezes and relaxed vibes. Seville Attic provides stunning views of the Guadalquivir River and the cathedral, serving signature cocktails in a verdant urban setting.

The Rooftop Terrace at Indies House in Plaza de la Encarnación offers unobstructed views of the Metropol Parasol, while Father The Roof Gilda provides cityscape views and a diverse cocktail menu.

The Mirador de Querencia offers spectacular cathedral views and a vibrant atmosphere, though service can occasionally be slow.

The Soul of Seville: Flamenco

Flamenco, more than just a dance, is the beating heart of Seville. Attending a live performance is essential for understanding the city’s passionate culture.

Flamenco Tablano las Setas, located beneath Las Setas, provides an intimate, theatre-style venue for approximately 100 people, allowing close appreciation of the performers’ rhythm and emotion.

For a more casual experience, consider flamenco bars such as Carboneria in the old town or Lola de los Reyes in the Triana neighborhood.

A passionate flamenco dancer in performance.

Seville’s allure, whether found in its culture, cuisine, or people, leaves a lasting impression, ensuring visitors depart with a desire to return.

A Mother’s Dream Realized

Rebekah, who welcomed her daughter Isla, now almost two years old, confessed a shift in her priorities. “Before Isla, I always thought, ‘You’re an actor first and foremost,’ but then you become a mum and that is your entire world,” she shared. Now, with Isla a bit older, Rebekah feels invigorated by the opportunity to pursue both her professional and personal passions. “It’s a treat to be able to do both of the things I love. I am really lucky.”

Rebekah cherishes her time with daughter Isla, who turns two in October. Photo / Amalia Osborne

Rebekah described her daughter as a “ray of sunshine,” filling their photoshoot with giggles and energy. “I just love my little life with her,” she enthused. “She’s really sparky and funny. She makes us laugh all the time with the things that she comes out with. It’s just like hanging out with your little best friend.”

Facing New Challenges

While returning to her familiar role felt comfortable, stepping into a new character for the crime series The Brokenwood Mysteries brought on a wave of nerves for the 32-year-old actress. After a year dedicated to motherhood and seven years playing Dawn on Shortland Street, she questioned her ability to perform. “I was absolutely terrified!” she admitted. “I felt like I’d been out of the game for so long that I was like, ‘What if I can’t do this?’ or, ‘What if I can’t remember lines any more? or, ‘What if I play this character exactly the same as Dawn because I’ve been playing her for so long?’”

Shortland Street star Rebekah Randell returns to acting after welcoming baby daughter

Rebekah’s return to acting has been met with enthusiasm. Photo / Woman’s Day

However, the supportive atmosphere on set quickly eased her anxieties. “But I stepped on set and everyone was so lovely and so supportive, and I realised, ‘Ah, I can do this!’ All those nerves were eased pretty fast because everyone was looking out for me, and I had such a great time.” The experience reignited her professional passion, with Rebekah noting, “I came home beaming one night and said to Bevan, ‘This is my thing! This is the thing that I enjoy, and that I really have such a love and passion for.’ It was really nice to reignite that spark.”

A Strong Support System

Rebekah credits her husband, builder Bevan, and her parents for making her return to work possible. Bevan took time off to be the primary caregiver for Isla, embracing the role of stay-at-home dad. “He was so chuffed about having the opportunity because a lot of dads don’t get that privilege of spending so much time with little ones,” Rebekah explained. “He got to experience Playcentre and Jumping Beans, and all that sort of stuff. He really leaned into it and did such a phenomenal job as a stay-at-home dad.”

She finds immense joy in observing the bond between Isla and her father. “Whenever Bev gets home from work, she goes, ‘Dadda, Dadda, come, come!’ And she takes him off for a tea party. They’re always giggling and being silly, and it’s so lovely seeing their relationship…” Rebekah elaborated, noting Isla seeks her for cuddles but her dad for playtime.

The challenges of balancing work and family are significant, with Rebekah acknowledging, “Even with all this support, it’s an absolute juggle, so I have full respect for any mums that are doing it full-time with kids in daycare,” She emphasized her deep gratitude for her family’s willingness to care for Isla, allowing her to film. “What you realise with grandparents is you’re actually giving them such joy just by letting them have Isla. They have such a special bond.”

Rebekah finding balance between motherhood and her career.

Rebekah is grateful for the ability to balance her acting career with motherhood. Photo / Amalia Osborne

Healing Through Motherhood

Becoming a mother has also brought healing for Rebekah, following the heartbreak of losing their first baby three years prior. “Having the miscarriage was so devastating,” she confessed. “But I really wish I knew then how amazing life would be down the track, you know? It’s so frustrating and upsetting at the time, and you’re so heartbroken, but I wish I could have told myself how happy you’d be when you finally got that beautiful baby that you were dreaming of.

Rebekah’s journey highlights the profound impact of motherhood and the rewarding experience of returning to a fulfilling career with newfound perspective. “Isla really is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

The Brokenwood Mysteries is available to stream on TVNZ+.

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Seville, Spain travel guide: Must-see sites and dining in Andalusia’s capital