Valencia vs Seville is an impossible problem. Both are soaked in year-round sun, peppered with petals from orange trees and are temptingly close to the UK. In short, neither is head and shoulders above the other. But every traveller is different, and we’ve gotten under their (sun-kissed) skin to discover the boxes that each Spanish city ticks. From the flamenco-founding Seville to the paella-producing Valencia, read on to discover what makes each city buzz.
For beaches... Valencia
Valencia vs Seville is a no-brainer for beach bums, as only one of these cities boasts a coastal position. In Valencia’s sunny slice of Spain, the city’s sands soak up the morning sun before (almost) anywhere else in the country, keeping the water warm from April to November. Want easy access to the city? Sink your toes into Malvarrosa Beach, a spacious stretch loved by locals, sunbathers and swimmers. After something a little wilder? El Saler Beach boasts natural dunes, clear waters and panoramic viewpoints, all within a 30-minute drive from Valencia’s heart.
For history... Seville
With a history stretching back 2,200 years (pipping Valencia to the post by a matter of decades), it’s no surprise that Seville oozes ancient appeal. At the Royal Alcázar, Europe’s oldest palace, ogle over its lavish gardens and the gold-tiled Palacio de Don Pedro, all while standing where Spanish royalty (and Game of Thrones actors) once stood. Next door, Seville Cathedral stands as the largest Gothic-style cathedral in the world, with only 700 steps required to reach the top... the best views are worth sweating for.
For food... Valencia
In Valencia vs Seville’s tasty toss-up of Mediterranean cuisine, Valencia narrowly lands on top. While Seville seduces with tempting tapas and orange wine, it’s Valencia’s one-pot perfection that steals the show: paella. Today, there are as many variations as there are grains of rice, but the dish has humble beginnings. A mix of rice, vegetables, poultry and rabbit were the staple ingredients of a farmer’s feast, finished with a touch of saffron for the signature flavour. Seafood slowly crept in, and ‘paella’ now encompasses any rice-based dish cooked and served in a shallow pan.
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For flamenco... Seville
Regarded as the beating heart of flamenco culture, Seville is the stand-out choice for immersing yourself in this rich tradition. Tumble into tablaos (flamenco venues) for shows starring skilled dancers, singers and percussion players, or settle into a local bar for an impromptu performance. Every two years, flamenco enthusiasts flock to Bienal de Flamenco, an international festival showcasing top-notch artists from around the world. So, when in Seville, grab a sangria and settle in for an authentic Andalusian experience.
Written by Evie Buller | Header Image by Ibrahim Guetar / Unsplash.
