Best Historic Luxury Hotels In Seville

Some of the best historic luxury hotels in Seville are the city’s top properties. You can stay in old palaces commissioned by the king or elegantly preserved buildings from the Middle Ages with unique historical elements. With such fascinating history, Seville allows you to experience it day and night in posh accommodation with cushy perks.

## At a Glance

Here’s a comparative overview of three exceptional hotels in Seville, each offering a unique experience: the historical Hotel Alfonso XIII, the centrally located EME Cathedral Hotel, and the pampering Hotel Palacio de Villapanes. This table highlights their key features to help you choose the perfect accommodation for your trip to Seville.

## Hotel Alfonso XIII

**(Image of Hotel Alfonso XIII)**

**(Image of Hotel Alfonso XIII Interior)**

Stepping into the Hotel Alfonso XIII is like stepping back in time to an era of unparalleled elegance and grandeur. This iconic property, commissioned by King Alfonso XIII himself in 1928, was conceived with the ambition of becoming the most beautiful hotel in all of Europe. Its historical significance is undeniable, having housed numerous international leaders in 1929 during the Ibero-American exhibition hosted by Seville.

The architectural design, spearheaded by a visionary head architect, draws inspiration from the traditional Mudejar style, incorporating elements of wood, brick, and ceramics to create a visually stunning masterpiece. Since its grand opening, Hotel Alfonso XIII has played host to a glittering array of notable guests, including members of royalty such as Prince Charles and Princess Diana, European kings, and celebrated figures from the world of arts and letters like Ernest Hemingway, Sofia Loren, and Audrey Hepburn.

The hotel truly embodies luxury, boasting a plethora of elegant spaces and exceptional amenities. To fully appreciate the extent of its offerings, one must experience it firsthand. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at one of the four distinct eateries, unwind with a refreshing beverage at one of the two bars, or bask in the sun on the rooftop terrace, complete with a sparkling pool. Numerous tranquil spaces, including inner courtyards, picturesque patios, and sophisticated lounges, provide ample opportunities for relaxation and contemplation, all adorned with elegant décor befitting royalty.

The rooms at Hotel Alfonso XIII are plush and exquisitely designed, perfectly complementing the hotel’s rich history and refined atmosphere. The bathrooms are bright and inviting, harmoniously blending white marble with unique and colorful tiling. For an unforgettable experience, guests can book the prestigious Alfonso XIII Suite, allowing them to truly immerse themselves in the royal ambiance. Alternatively, a selection of deluxe rooms and suites with private terraces offer an added touch of exclusivity.

Strategically located, Hotel Alfonso XIII provides an ideal base for those seeking to enjoy the vibrant energy of Seville while residing in a slightly more tranquil setting. The hotel is conveniently surrounded by prominent landmarks, including the Royal Alcázar, Jardines de Cristina, and the Universidad de Seville. Furthermore, nearly all the major attractions are within a leisurely 10-minute walk, including the iconic Plaza de España.

## EME Cathedral Hotel

**(Image of EME Cathedral Hotel)**

**(Image of EME Cathedral Hotel Rooftop)**

Immerse yourself in the heart of Seville by staying directly across the street from the majestic Catedral de Seville at the EME Cathedral Hotel. This captivating 16th-century building exudes historical charm, boasting a wealth of preserved architectural details. Originally, the property comprised 14 distinct Andalusian houses owned by “el Moro,” a renowned and affluent antique dealer. Today, guests can admire preserved arcades, elegant glass-enclosed iron balconies, impressive stone archways, and intricately coffered ceilings. Perhaps the most captivating piece within the hotel is the Baroque altarpiece, adorned with an elaborate gold-leaf pattern, acquired from the esteemed el Moro.

The hotel derives its name from its prime location, offering unparalleled views of the Cathedral from its rooftop terrace, complete with an inviting outdoor pool and a stylish bar. Guests can also unwind and rejuvenate in the spa, featuring a soothing thermal water circuit, or savor delectable Italian cuisine at the on-site restaurant, AL LADO. The rooms offer comfortable, clean, and modern spaces that seamlessly incorporate historical elements, such as exposed brick walls. For those seeking an even more luxurious experience, the deluxe rooms and suites provide added amenities, including private balconies or terraces, some of which offer breathtaking views of the Cathedral. The bathrooms are meticulously maintained and designed with a modern aesthetic.

The EME Cathedral Hotel boasts an exceptionally central location, situated directly across from the Cathedral and within easy walking distance of numerous prominent sites, including the Royal Alcázar, Plaza de España, and Torre del Oro, in addition to being conveniently near the waterfront. Guests will also find themselves just around the corner from an array of pedestrian streets lined with enticing eateries and shops.

## Hotel Palacio de Villapanes

**(Image of Hotel Palacio de Villapanes)**

**(Image of Hotel Palacio de Villapanes Courtyard)**

The Hotel Palacio de Villapanes represents a masterful transformation of an 18th-century palace into a luxurious hotel, a project spearheaded by Diego Antonio Díaz, widely regarded as one of the most ingenious architects of his time. Díaz meticulously preserved the palace’s original features, including the double-column arcade and the traditional Sevillan courtyard, creating a tranquil oasis where guests can relax and enjoy a delightful meal or two. Today, the hotel stands as a protected cultural interest site in Seville, recognized as one of the region’s finest examples of 18th-century Baroque architecture.

While all the rooms at Hotel Palacio de Villapanes are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay, the “palace” rooms and suites offer an unparalleled level of luxury. These elevated accommodations boast tasteful décor, soaring ceilings, multiple rooms, and rich wooden elements, creating a truly opulent ambiance. The bathrooms are modern and impeccably clean, providing plush robes for added comfort. To truly immerse yourself in the building’s history, consider reserving the El Torreón Suite, located within the property’s dome and featuring an original marble bathtub.

Guests can savor delectable meals at the hotel’s restaurant or unwind with a refreshing beverage at the bar/café, both of which offer indoor and outdoor dining options. The rooftop terrace provides an idyllic setting for relaxation, featuring an outdoor plunge pool, a sun deck with comfortable loungers, and a bar. Additional perks include on-site parking and a wellness center equipped with a sauna, steam room, gym, and a range of rejuvenating spa treatments.

The Palacio de Villapanes is located slightly farther from the main tourist center, but it remains within walking distance of all the key attractions. This slightly more secluded location offers the advantage of being closer to the Setas de Sevilla and its vibrant Mercado de la Encarnación. Those who wish to explore the city on foot can easily navigate the historic streets, reaching the Catedral de Seville and the Royal Alcázar in approximately 15 minutes.

(Word Count: 1310)

B-2415

Log in

Register