In August 2024, after many years of dreaming about visiting Spain, I traveled to Spain for a yin yoga retreat and training. In this post, I’ll share where I stayed, what I ate, and what I did in Seville and Granada. I’ll include tips for navigating transportation, things to know about sightseeing, and where I stayed in each city.
Seville, Spain
Let’s begin in Seville, a city located in the Southwestern area of Spain. There’s plenty to do and see but it’s small enough to enjoy in a few days. In both Airbnbs I stayed in, I was in the historic city center – the San Julian and Centro areas. I loved being so close to many attractions I could quickly walk to. The first Airbnb I stayed in was this one and the second Airbnb was this one. The first apartment was close to the Setas de Sevilla and the second apartment was close to the Catedral de Sevilla.
Setas de Sevilla
Catedral de Sevilla
Where to Eat
Naturalmente – A quaint breakfast spot with items made from fresh ingredients, a delicious latte, and the perfect place to start the day. It was right around the corner from this Airbnb.
Billy Brunch – Another adorable breakfast place with the sweetest service.
Catalina Casa de Comidas y Más – A lovely dinner spot.
Pelayo Bar – Tapas restaurant close to the Catedral de Sevilla.
La Malvaloca – Tapas restaurant with outdoor seating in the plaza, close to the Setas de Sevilla.
MITO Gelato – Incredible Italian gelato. There are a few locations in Seville.
What to See
Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo
Royal Alcázar of Seville
Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo
The Center for Contemporary Art is a bit of a walk from the city center, but if you’re up for it, the entrance fee is quite cheap and it’s fun to see modern art inside this historic building.
Granada, Spain
Granada is magical! It’s what I imagined a European city would look like with the cobblestone, winding streets between homes. I took the train from Seville. It took about 2.5 hours each way. I stayed in this Airbnb and the view was stunning. It was an uphill trek from where the Uber dropped me off, and I’m glad I had downloaded and translated the instructions for how to get inside from my host prior to arrival. Every host I had in Spain was so communicative and thoughtful. From this apartment, I was able to walk to Mirador de San Nicolás, Alhambra, and all of the restaurants I visited.
Where to Eat
Granada is known for its tapas. When you order a drink, you receive an order of whatever tapas the chef prepares, often a potato-based dish and usually a bite or two.
El Bar de Fede – The server recommended the Iberian Pork and I’m so glad I trusted his advice because it was smoky, salty, and paired with a side of potatoes.
La Auténtica Carmela – I also learned that a signature dish of this region is grilled octopus so I ordered that here, and wow, it was worth trying.
Kona Specialty Coffee – A cute coffee shop and breakfast spot.
Bonnevie – A great coffee shop right down the hill from my Airbnb.
What to See
Alhambra – I did the general option (19 Euros) and was able to walk through and see everything. I started by touring the outside section and then I went to the palace tour at the time I booked.
I was only in Granada for one full day so I didn’t see as much as I would have liked, but I’m so glad I chose to see Alhambra. I walked there from my Airbnb. Be sure to wear walking shoes because you’re on cobblestone streets and it’s mostly uphill to get there.
Tips for Traveling in Spain
eSim – Saily is the eSim I used. Note: be sure to turn off your phone carrier’s international roaming and turn on the eSim so you aren’t charged for both–lesson learned on that one.
Train Travel – I booked train tickets through this site.
Uber/Taxi – In both Seville and Granada, you could take an Uber and it was often cheaper than a taxi. However, my Airbnb host told me that there is a little rift between Uber and taxis so Uber can’t always go as far into some areas and has to drop you off on the edges of an area. You’ll then need to walk, usually not super far, but something to be aware of. Additionally, I used a site called Welcome Pickups. You can schedule a pickup to or from the airport and my experience was great.
Be sure to always have your passport with you. When visiting certain sites, they scanned your passport so keep it on you. It’s also always a good idea to have photos of your passport in case anything happens to it.
It’s worth noting that you will be in the Schengen Area when visiting Spain. As a US Citizen, you may be required to go through customs and immigration when you’re connecting flights instead of at your final destination. For example, I went through customs at my Madrid stop instead of in Seville. You’ll want to ensure you’ve considered having a layover that’s long enough to give time for this.
Lastly, language. I did not study and practice as much Spanish as I meant to before my trip. There are plenty of English speakers and you will be just fine, but of course, it’s always thoughtful to speak at least a little of the language.
Overall, I cannot recommend Spain enough. It is a gorgeous country with beautiful people, architecture, and some of the best food I’ve ever tasted. I hope to return very soon! If you have any questions, I’m happy to answer them.
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