Going on a winter holiday to Europe and you want to experience some sunshine while you’re there? Then make a stop at Seville in Spain, a city known for its warm and sunny weather all throughout the year. Winter in Seville is extremely mild – while it rains sometimes, it rarely snows. You can spend time outdoors without bundling up and without fear of getting frozen to the core while you’re outside. So, what can you see and do in Seville in wintertime? Here are just a few things you can enjoy while spending winter in Seville.
Admire the nativity scenes
If you come to Seville in time for Christmas, among the sights that will hit you from the onset are the nativity scenes and the Christmas street décor. You’ll see these nativity scenes – scenes of Joseph and Mary caring for Baby Jesus in the manger with shepherds and the Three Magi looking over – at Seville’s many churches. Many Seville families also decorate their homes with nativity scenes. Seeing these decorations can really put you in the holiday mood.
Check out the goods at the Christmas markets
Speaking of nativity scenes, locally called belen, you can make your own by buying the figurines and décor you need for your nativity scene at the Feria del Belen. The Feria del Belen is one of Seville’s biggest Christmas markets, where the locals buy new Christmas décor and items for their nativity scene. You can find the Feria del Belen right in front of the Seville Cathedral. If you’re not into Christmas décor, you can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and knick-knacks at many other Christmas markets in the city.
Visit the world’s largest gothic cathedral
Seville Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is the world’s largest Roman Catholic cathedral built in the Gothic style. Built as a symbol of Seville’s wealth and power during the European age of exploration, the Cathedral took more than a hundred years to build. The Cathedral is truly a thing of beauty, with its soaring ceilings, its intricate stonework, and its dazzling stained glass windows. It is especially remarkable for its gilded retablo depicting important scenes from the life of Christ, located inside the central nave. Outside the Cathedral is La Giralda, the Cathedral’s bell tower and an iconic symbol of Seville. The Cathedral is also the final resting place of Christopher Columbus.
Let your jaw drop at the beauty of the Real Alcazar Palace
If you’re a fan of the HBO TV show Game of Thrones, then you’ve already had a glimpse of the breathtaking beauty of the Real Alcazar Palace in Seville. In the HBO show, the Alcazar stands for the Martell palace in Dorne. The Alcazar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture on the Iberian Peninsula. Visit the palace and marvel at its elaborate tile work and stonework, and its verdant garden-orchards.
Learn to dance authentic flamenco
Flamenco is a fiery, passionate dance that originated in the province of Andalusia, in which Seville is located. It is a dance that conveys much emotion from the dancer, accompanied by handclapping, guitar music, and vocalization. The dance of flamenco has spread throughout the world and has evolved into many different styles, but the traditional and authentic version is still performed at the Museo del Baile Flamenco. There you can learn how to dance the flamenco if you wish. Or you can simply catch a live performance by veteran artists.
Feast on traditional tapas
What’s a visit to any Spanish city without touring the bars and cafes for some tapas? Tapas are generally snacks or appetizers served in small portions. However, if you combine different tapas dishes, you can form a full meal. In Seville, you can enjoy your selection of delectable tapas at rooftop cafes and bars with your choice of wine. Don’t worry – when it’s winter in Seville, these outdoor and rooftop cafes are equipped with outdoor heaters. The bites may be small, but you’re sure to feel full once you’re done.
Cram 12 grapes in your mouth at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve
In Seville, the clock strikes twelve times at midnight on New Year’s Eve. It’s tradition among the people of Seville to pop a grape every single time the clock chimes. If you manage to cram twelve pieces of grapes in your mouth successfully when New Year’s Eve turns into New Year’s Day, you’re believed to enjoy good luck for the rest of the year. Try it if you’re celebrating the New Year in Seville. It’s harder than it looks, but it sure is fun.
Winter in Seville is mild and sunny, making it a great place to escape the winter cold. If you’re spending your winter holiday in Europe, make sure to make a stop at Seville.
