Seville is the best city in the world to visit in 2018, according to Lonely Planet

bridge of  Plaza de Espana, Seville, Spain
bridge of Plaza de Espana, Seville, Spain



The Spanish city of Seville has been named the number one place to visit for a city break in 2018, by Lonely Planet's Best in Travel.

SEE ALSO: What to see and where to stay in Moscow

SEE ALSO: 12 underrated European cities

Praised for being a city of bicycles and trams, its bars and restaurants that capture the latest food and fashion trends, and its passionate lifestyle, the capital of Andulucia beat cities including Detroit, Hamburg, San Juan and Oslo to be named the top destination for a short break.

Metropol Parasol
Metropol Parasol



In 2018, Seville will host the 31st European Film Awards and "showcase its good looks" in TV fantasy drama Game of Thrones, according to Lonely Planet. The city is also in the midst of celebrating the 400th anniversary of homegrown Baroque painter Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, with one-of-a-kind expositions continuing into 2018.

So, what's the vibe of Seville? The city is as passionate as they come, with an ever-changing mood, whether it's celebrating the solemn Semana Santa (Holy Week), or the lively six-day Feria in spring. For culture vultures, there's flamenco and opera which shouldn't be missed, while Seville's neighbourhoods showcase the very best of tradition blended with innovation.

Some of the city highlights include one of the largest Christian churches in the world Seville Cathedral, the Moorish Alcázar and the Palacio de las Dueñas, which displays all things Sevillano.

Glimpse of Andalusia
Glimpse of Andalusia



Spring is one of the most popular times to visit and the hot summer is best avoided, but for cooler temperatures and cheaper prices, head to Seville in September or October.

Fancy a trip to Seville in 2018? Try a three-night break at former archbishop's palace Los Seises, located near the cathedral, with Kirker Holidays. The trip costs from £498 per person and includes flights, accommodation, entrance tickets to either the cathedral or the Alcazar, Kirker Guide Notes to restaurants, museums and sightseeing, plus the services of the Kirker Concierge. Or Black Tomato's eight-night luxury tour, taking in Madrid for two nights before heading south to Seville for five nights to soak up the city's food and culture. Think authentic flamenco shows, the legendary dishes of the Jewish quarter and Triana, plus day trips to Jerez and Cadiz. The holiday costs from £3,898 per person, excluding flights.

Lonely Planet's top ten cities for 2018:

1. Seville, Spain
2. Detroit, USA
3. Canberra, Australia
4. Hamburg, Germany
5. Kaohsiung, Taiwan
6. Antwerp, Belgium
7. Matera, Italy
8. San Juan, Puerto Rico
9. Guanajuato, Mexico
10. Oslo, Norway

Want to know more exciting cities to visit in 2018? See our pick of the best below.



Advertisement