Things to do in Seville

The capital of Andalusia is a city of layered history: Roman roots nearby at Itálica, a Moorish palace still in royal use, and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, crowned by a tower that began life as a minaret. Its old quarter of Santa Cruz is a maze of whitewashed lanes and tiled patios, while the grand Plaza de España recalls the city's 1929 exposition.

Seville is also the spiritual home of flamenco, with performances every night in intimate courtyards and dedicated theatres. Come in spring for the orange blossom and festivals, or in autumn for warm evenings made for sitting outside with tapas.