Seville is the passionate heart of Andalusia. In Spain's sunny south, flamenco, tapas, orange trees and long, leisurely meals are part of everyday life, and centuries of Jewish, Islamic and Christian influence can be seen in the city's churches, minarets and historic neighborhoods.

Explore the Real Alcazar, a breathtaking royal palace with Moorish tilework and lush gardens, and the massive Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic churches in the world and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Climb the Giralda tower, once a minaret, for views over the rooftops. Wander the narrow lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter, admire the grand Plaza de Espana, and see the city from above on the wooden Metropol Parasol. In the evening, catch a flamenco show and hop between tapas bars. Keep an eye out for NO8DO on buses, benches and even manhole covers, the city's motto, which means "it has not abandoned me," a tribute from King Alfonso X to the loyal people of Seville.

Seville is about two and a half hours from Madrid by high-speed train. Spring brings the famous Holy Week processions and April Fair. I'll book your Alcazar and Cathedral tickets and connect Seville with Granada and Cordoba.