Things To Avoid In Seville That NO ONE Will Tell YOU | Local's Guide To Seville [2022 Travel Guide]

Summary

Discover the vibrant city of Seville, Spain, where the local culture and traditions come alive through its maze-like cobblestone streets, majestic monuments, and thriving bullring. Experience the city like a local by indulging in tapas bars, avoiding common tourist mistakes such as ordering sangria or paella, and embracing the siesta tradition. Visit during spring for the best weather and avoid the scorching summer afternoons. Be aware of potential scams and tourist traps to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Takeaways

• 🏙️ Seville is Spain's third most visited city, known for its picturesque streets and remnants of Moorish past.
• 🍽️ Opt for Tapas bars over traditional restaurants to experience local cuisine and vibrant atmospheres.
• 🍷 Avoid ordering sangria or pale; instead, try Tinto de Verano, a refreshing summer drink made from lemons.
• 🌤️ Plan your visit during springtime for comfortable temperatures and to coincide with Seville's Holy Week and April fair celebrations.
• 🏖️ Consider visiting the beaches of Andalusia or Roman ruins of Viola Claudia for an alternative to the city's heat in summer.
• 🕒 Be mindful of the siesta tradition; most businesses close between 2 and 5 PM, with smaller shops following this custom more strictly.
• 🌆 Explore the local life in neighborhoods like Triana, which offers a unique experience away from tourist crowds.
• 🍽️ Be aware of typical Spanish dining hours, with lunch around 2 PM and dinner after 9 PM.
• 🚫 Beware of common scams like the picture scam, taxi overcharging, ATM helpers, bird poop scam, and the guessing game scam.
• 💳 Use credit cards with zero foreign exchange fees and exchange cash at local banks to avoid scams at ATMs.

Q & A

What is Seville's ranking in terms of popularity among Spanish cities?

Seville is the third most visited city in Spain.

What is a unique characteristic of Seville's streets and plazas?

Seville is known for its picturesque maze of cobblestone streets and elegant plazas.

What cultural remnants can be found in Seville?

Seville has intriguing remnants of its Moorish past, including magnificent palaces and majestic monuments.

What is the local dining tradition in Seville that visitors should experience?

Visitors should try out Tapas bars and share a multitude of small dishes with a few drinks in between, as this is how locals dine.

Why should tourists avoid ordering paella and sangria in Seville?

Paella and sangria are not local specialties; paella is from Valencia and the sangria in Seville is often overpriced and associated with being a tourist.

What is the best time of year to visit Seville for a more pleasant experience?

Springtime is ideal for visiting Seville, with comfortable warm temperatures and the iconic April Fair coinciding with the season.

Why are visits between 1 pm and 6 pm during summer in Seville discouraged?

Visits during these hours are discouraged due to the unbearably hot temperatures, which can make it unsafe and uncomfortable.

What is the significance of the neighborhood of Triana in Seville?

Triana is a neighborhood where visitors can immerse themselves in local life, visit the market, enjoy Tapas and a beer at local bars and restaurants, and admire breathtaking views.

What is the typical timing for meals in Seville?

Restaurants open at 1 pm for lunch, with locals usually eating around 2 pm or later. For dinner, restaurants open around 8 to 8:30 pm, but locals typically arrive around 9 pm or later.

What are some scams that tourists should be aware of in Seville?

Tourists should be cautious of photo scams, taxi overcharging, ATM scams, bird poop tricks, and pickpocketing during street performances or games.

What advice is given to tourists regarding ATMs in Seville?

Tourists should avoid accepting help from individuals offering to assist with ATMs to prevent card skimming and should cover their hand when entering their PIN number.