Discover the magic of Seville

The arrival of cold weather in Seville can only mean one thing: the beginning of Christmas. In December, the city prepares to welcome the most special time of the year, the perfect time to visit the Christmas markets in Nervión, Alameda de Hércules and Plaza Nueva. In addition, these markets sell handcrafted items, so originality and exclusivity are guaranteed.

Visiting the famous Feria del Belén (Nativity Scene Fair) on Avenida de la Constitución is another of Seville's most popular customs during this time of year. Going out to enjoy the Christmas lights and decorations or the classic Three Kings Parade is also a privilege exclusive to this city. Finally, this season culminates with the Andalusia Day festivities, a celebration in style where the city is dominated by guided tours of the historic centre, which during these days is dressed in white and green as a reflection of and homage to the flag of the community.

Holy Week, the biggest and most multitudinous celebration par excellence in the capital, marks the start of the festive season. This festivity is the most awaited of the year, a demonstration of religiosity with the processions of brotherhoods and brotherhoods to worship the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; it is a week full of faith and with an indescribable climate, in which feelings are at their peak.

Likewise, the season of flowers brings with it the resounding April Fair which is celebrated year after year in the Los Remedios neighbourhood. For these days in which song and dance are the stars and flamenco the soundtrack, Seville is dyed in red and white polka dots and the flamenco dress becomes the gala dress. Undoubtedly, you cannot leave without passing under the Portada, the main gate that gives access to the fairgrounds, or without attending the Alumbrao, the lighting of the lights, some of the highlights of the fair. Within this perimeter are the "casetas", which may belong to districts, entities or are public and are carefully decorated with pictures, paper flowers, lace fabrics and colored bulbs. The commotion in these stalls is a symbol of fun, joy and special moments; definitely something to experience at least once in a lifetime.

Faced with the high temperatures and the scorching sun, the terraces become the perfect place to enjoy one of the best cuisines in the country. Gazpacho, pescaíto frito (fried fish), cazón en adobo (marinated dogfish) and huevos a la flamenca (flamenco-style eggs) are some of the most typical dishes of the capital that you can't miss on your table. The same goes for pestiños, one of the most traditional and peculiar desserts.

In addition, around the month of June the Romería del Rocío is celebrated, a tribute to the Virgen del Rocío in the form of a pilgrimage of wagons, colourful dresses, dust and horseback riding through the village.

Seville's charm is undoubtedly due in part to its hospitality, but it is also thanks to its beautiful locations. Visits to the neighbourhoods of Triana, Santa Cruz, the Alameda and the María Luisa Park are essential routes to take advantage of and enjoy its magical and representative landscapes. Autumn is also an ideal season for a bike ride along the Guadalquivir River.