Portugal and Spain are close neighbours, however they are very different in character.
The capital of Andalusia, is just a two hour drive from Faro. Pick up your VDL hire car and get driving.
Staying at Fairways provides a perfect opportunity to travel across the border and experience this first-hand. Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is just a two-hour drive from Faro on the A22 and A-49.
Insider Tip
Cross border Spanish insurance is already included in the price when you use VDL car hire.
Must see and do activities
Real Alcázar de Sevilla – a scaled down version of Granada’s Alhambra, with exquisite ceramic tiles and stunning gold ceilings plus beautiful gardens that are home to pools, pavilions and peacocks. Book a tour online to avoid the queues. Plaza de Espana – built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, this semicircular brick building is a vast and beautiful work of architecture. You can rent small boats to row along its 500 metre canal.
Cathedral de Sevilla and Giralda Tower – the third largest cathedral in the world, with a jaw-dropping basilica and a former minaret of the mosque to climb for stunning views.
Barrio Santa Cruz – meander through the alleys and lanes of the medieval Jewish quarter and soak up the atmosphere.
Flamenco
Flamenco originated in the Spanish region of Andalusia in the 18th century and is closely linked to the gitano (gypsy) culture present in that region. The art form of flamenco consists of three distinct parts: the – cante – or song, the – toque – or playing of the
guitar, and the – baile – or dance.
For traditional flamenco, seek out a small, intimate venue with local artists. Shows generally last an hour and cost around €20. Alternatively, you could choose from the many professional shows that include dinner. And some of the best flamenco in the world. An essential experience not to be missed.
Tapas
Tapas are small Spanish savoury dishes, typically served hot or cold with drinks at a bar, with a modern or traditional twist. So how do you know which place serves the best tapas, is right for you and what kind of eating experience you would enjoy the most? A great idea, to fully appreciate just what Seville can offer and learn more about the history of tapas and the city, is to join a local food tour.
Exclusively for our members, we have teamed up with Devour Food Tours for a 10% discount on any one of their tours, not only in Seville but across a number of Spanish cities as well as Lisbon. To book, visit: devourtours.com and quote FAIRWAYS to claim your 10% discount.
Did You Know…
Lonely Planet ranked Seville the No 1 city to visit in 2018. The city boasts more than 170 kilometres of bicycle routes reaching all neighbourhoods. The oldest bar in Seville dates back to 1670 – El Rinconcillo and is worth a visit. Due to the quantity and quality, Seville is the “world’s capital of tapas”.
