JOYA DEL CASCO BOUTIQUE HOTEL BY SHIADU, Seville

The hotel sits on Calle Argote de Molina, 15, in the heart of the old town. The Cathedral and La Giralda are a 2-3 minute walk, and the Alcázar is roughly 5 minutes away. Santa María La Blanca Church is 600 metres distant. The surrounding streets are filled with tapas bars, restaurants and shops - over eight dining options are within 0.5 km. Seville Airport is 11 km away. Despite the central position, the street is quiet, especially in rooms facing the internal courtyard. Parking is not available at the hotel; the nearest public garages (Plaza Nueva, Colón) are about a 5-minute walk. A taxi or the paid airport shuttle (€50) is the most convenient arrival option.

Standard double rooms feature a 160cm bed; superior doubles have an 180cm bed. Some rooms face the street, while others overlook the internal courtyard - the courtyard-side rooms are noticeably quieter. All rooms have windows; opening them is possible and allows fresh air, though the effective air conditioning makes it unnecessary. The bathrooms are fitted with large walk-in showers (no bathtubs). Amenities include a safe, hairdryer, free toiletries, electric kettle, and an iron/ironing board on request. Bottled water is provided daily. Housekeeping is carried out daily to a good standard. The rooms are described as clean, comfortable and well-equipped, with particularly comfortable beds and pillows.

Breakfast is served as a generous buffet with a variety that changes slightly each day. Hot options include eggs cooked to order, along with fresh fruits, pastries, breads, cold cuts, and regional dishes. Gluten-free and lactose-free options are available on request - the staff can prepare custom pancakes. Coffee, tea, water, pastries and cake are available for free throughout the day in the lobby, a practical bonus for afternoon breaks. For other meals, the immediate area is dense with restaurants and tapas bars, all within a 1-3 minute walk.

The outdoor pool is located on the roof terrace and is open all year, though it is not heated - the temperature is naturally cool, which is welcome during Seville's hot months. The terrace provides sun loungers, umbrellas, and towels, and offers a direct view of the Cathedral and La Giralda, particularly striking at sunset. The pool is compact (a plunge pool) and is suitable for a refreshing dip after sightseeing rather than for swimming lengths. The terrace is popular in the warmer seasons and provides a calm, quiet space in an otherwise busy city centre.

WiFi is free throughout the hotel. The 24-hour front desk can arrange airport pick-up/drop-off (€50 each way), and luggage storage is complimentary - useful for early arrivals or late departures. A lift serves all floors. Security features include key-card access, CCTV, and a security alarm. The hotel also offers room service, concierge assistance, and a welcome drink. Daily housekeeping is provided free of charge, and the lobby houses a small library and a coffee/tea station that is always available. Cots are available on request, and bicycle storage can be arranged.