Although Seville is located well away from the coast, it's still only about 20 feet above sea level. It was once an important sea port. In fact, explorer Ferdinand Magellan got the ships he used to circumnavigate the globe from Seville. It was also the recipient of much of the silver brought over from the New World.

Because of the riches brought over from the Americas, Seville drew quite a large population in the 16th and 17th centuries, making it the largest city in Spain until around 1649 when the Great Plague of Seville struck. Though the city fell from importance in terms of population and economics, it is still valued as an artistic center of the baroque.

Seville today is home to many great tourist attractions. Its cathedral was built between the years of 1401 and 1519. It is the largest Gothic and medieval cathedral in the world, elaborately decorated and containing quite a bit of gold. It is topped by the city's most famous statue, La Giraldilla, which symbolizes faith.

Located facing the cathedral is Alcazar, an old Moorish palace that took more than 500 years to build. Its grounds include lovely gardens in a blend of Moorish, Andalusian, and Christian styles.

On the river is the Torre del Oro, a watchtower built by the Almohad dynasty. It was used as a defensive barrier on the river by stringing a heavy chain from its base across the river to stop boats from traveling through.

With so many wonderful things to see, it's not surprising that Seville is a magnet for tourist activity. Fortunately, there are many accommodation choices for Seville's tourists, including hostels, hotels, and apartments.

Seville Hostels

Examples of hostels in Seville include:

Hostal Redes: This hostel is located within walking distance of many of the major attractions in Seville, including cathedrals and the Fine Art Museum. There are eight double rooms and one single room available for guests. Three of the rooms include an extra bed. Each room has a bathroom with a shower. Includes Internet access, laundry, television room, public telephone, and other amenities.

Hostal Nuevo Suizo: Located in central Seville, Nuevo Suizo offers free breakfast, Internet access, and reservations for shows and tours. It is within walking distance of monuments, museums, supermarkets, and the city's shopping area.

Oasis Backpackers Hostel Sevilla: Although you can make reservations for this hostel, they always save beds for walk ins. It is located in the center of Seville's cultural and historic area and is walking distance from many tourist sights. The rooftop terrace not only has a beautiful view of the city, it also has a swimming pool!

Seville Hotels

Examples of hotels in Seville include:

Hesperia Sevilla Hotel: This hotel is five minutes from the train station and 15 minutes from the International San Pablo Airport. It includes a parking area, restaurant, bar, solarium, Jacuzzi, and indoor swimming pool.

Eurostars Regina Hotel: This 90 room, 3star hotel is within walking distance of Seville's historic center. It's near the Fine Arts Museum and the Cartuja Park. Services and amenities include parking area, bar, newspapers, breakfast buffet, and car rentals.

Best Western Hotel Cervantes: The Best Western is located a short 10 minute walk from the Cathedral, Giralda tower, and the Isla Magica theme park. It boasts crystal glass ceilings and was completely remodeled in 2006. Services and amenities include parking area, elevator, breakfast buffet, Internet access, and soundproofed rooms.

Seville Apartments

Examples of apartments in Seville include:

Sevilla Alameda 2: This apartment sleeps up to three people in a typical Sevillian house in central Seville. It's on the plaza Alameda de Hercules, which is a park with many bars, restaurants, and shops close by. Includes bathroom with shower, living room, open kitchen, television, radio, and computer with Internet access.

Peral56Sevilla: This apartment is located in the historic center of the colorful La Macerena district. It's on a quiet street near one of the main thoroughfares that hosts the Feria Market each Thursday. During this market, the street is lined with booths where merchants sell a wide range of items. The apartment sleeps up to four and includes a washing machine, air conditioning, television, and cleaning service.

Holiday Home in Seville: This is a three-story house that has been completely remodeled, but still has 19th century details. It sleeps up to seven, so it's perfect for a large family or touring group. It's close to tourist attractions, with a short 10 minute walk to the cathedral.

Although accommodations in Seville tend to be a bit more expensive than in other areas of Spain, you will get a better rate if you visit in the winter months. However, with some careful research, you can also find places that offer cheaper rates in July and August due to hot temperatures that chase some tourists away.