Seville is your gateway to a time gone by. Known for its steamy-hot summers and mild winters, this southern Spanish capital is famous for its historic churches, grand palaces, Renaissance architecture and exotic flamenco rhythms never fail to charm and seduce. History oozes through its very pores, with ancient Moorish walls, Roman ruins and Baroque churches at every turn. All this makes Seville the perfect place for your language students to soak up the Spanish culture.
We’ve done the hard work for you by putting together a list of Seville’s top ten free (and almost free) school trip activities, so that you can discover the very best of the city on your language trip.
1. Parque María Luisa
Filled with hundreds of exotic trees, fairytale-esque buildings, colourful tiled benches and Moorish Fountains, is the Parque María Luisa. Located south of the city, close to the river, this beautiful oasis is a must for any visitor to Seville!
2. Plaza de España
The Plaza de España has unique architectural design which makes it one of the most imposing plazas in Spain. For a truly romantic experience, journey along the canal by boat. At the end of the Plaza there is a small café for when you are feeling a little peckish as well as souvenir stalls where your students can put their language skills to the test as they pick up a memento. Be sure to put this on your bucket list.
3. Palace of the Marqueses de la Algaba
This historic mansion house has high architectural value and is complete with exquisite courtyard, which is free to enter. If you wander upstairs you will find an exhibit that explains the history on Islamic women who lived in the area under catholic rules.
4. Museo de Bellas Artes
The museum of fine art’s collection has come together over its history and includes work that goes back to the Gothic period. It’s set in a beautiful building with a garden at the back where you can sit, relax and hear the birds singing.
5. Archivo de Indias
Archivo de Indias houses millions of pages and maps about Spain’s mighty empire, covering more than three centuries of history. This 16th century building conserves documents relating to the Spanish colonies, including the American continent as well as the Philippines. Make sure you are not to miss the frequent exhibitions.
6. Iglesia de Santa Maria la Blanca
This small church is “must” during your visit. Inspiring art work inside, glorious altar and unforgettable ceilings. The remarkable artistic heritage it conserves, the temple stands out as one of the most dazzling examples of Andalusian architecture from the first Baroque period.
7. Giralda Tower
Going to visit the Giralda Tower should be on your list of things to do in Seville, as it is one of the tallest churches in the city for over 800 years. To enter the tower there is a small charge, but it will definitely be worth it. Make sure to be wearing comfortable shoes as we recommend to climb to the 38 floor and you will have a spectacular view of Seville.
8. Triana Market
Are you a food lover? Then the Triana is the place to be it is a wonderful covered market, which is home to a number of superb little tapas bars. Students can practise their language skills as they stroll amongst the stalls. This is infinitely the best way to experience Seville’s street and Spanish culture.
9. Plaza Nueva
This vibrant square in the old town is surrounded by cafés, bars and restaurants which would be perfect for a spot of lunch, or an evening meal. Formerly this was one of the most important parts to the city where various tournaments, games and bullfights were held. What better place to introduce your linguists to the heritage and culture of the city?
10. Iglesia del Sagrario
Church Malaga Iglesia del Sagrario is an overwhelming example of the Plateresque style, characterised by the merging of flamboyant Gothic and traditional Spanish styles. The heavily gilded altarpiece is the reason why so many people visit this church.
Discover more about a language trip to Seville