Day trip to Seville

<p>Seville is a stretch as a day trip, 200km each way, around 2.5 hours in the car, but people do it regularly from Gibraltar and almost always say it was worth it. The city delivers in a way that few Spanish cities manage: the historic centre is compact enough to cover on foot, the architecture is extraordinary, and the tapas crawl culture means you can eat exceptionally well without sitting down for a formal meal.</p> <p>The Catedral de Sevilla is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third largest church overall. It was built on the site of the great Moorish mosque, and the minaret, the Giralda tower, was converted into the cathedral's bell tower rather than demolished, which tells you something about how impressive it was. Climb the Giralda for views over the city. The cathedral also contains the tomb of Christopher Columbus, or at least some of his remains, carried in a casket by four kings representing the medieval kingdoms of Spain.</p> <p>The Real Alcázar next door is a working royal palace, the Spanish royal family still uses it, and arguably the finest example of Mudéjar architecture in existence. The tilework, carved plaster and formal gardens are extraordinary, and unlike the Alhambra it is somewhat easier to get tickets on the day, though booking ahead is still advisable in peak season.</p> <p>El Arenal neighbourhood along the Guadalquivir river is good for lunch and the famous tapas bars. Triana, across the river, is the traditional flamenco and ceramic-tile district. The Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, is one of those absurdly grand public spaces that makes you stop and stare. It is huge, beautifully built, and free.</p> <p>Leave Gibraltar early, target the Alcázar and cathedral for the morning, lunch in El Arenal or the Barrio de Santa Cruz, then Plaza de España in the afternoon. Head back by 6pm to avoid driving in the dark.</p>