Cordoba to Seville and Carmona: Private day trip

Founded around the 8th century BC, Seville grew into a major trade center under the Romans - a status it maintained through much of its long history, especially trade with the New World. The city's old town reflects these centuries of prosperity, perhaps best exemplified by its Gothic cathedral - the largest in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built over the course of a century on the site of a former mosque, using the most refined and extravagant construction techniques to showcase the city's wealth. The cathedral's massive facade is impossibly ornate, covered with intricate carvings. The iconic bell-tower is topped with the original mosque's minaret. The interior is even more richly decorated, and houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Surrounding the cathedral is an enchanting mix of majestic Mudéjar palaces, historic homes and winding medieval lanes. And while in the city, be sure to take part in the locals' favourite past time: tapas!

A pre-Roman settlement that was gentrified by Phoenician traders, and fortified by Rome, each passing empire supplemented the city’s beauty. Today, the Roman road that still runs through the city, and even its fortified gates are still standing strong. There’s also a Roman necropolis located on the city outskirts with hundreds of tombs and burial chambers excavated from rock. Within its fortified walls, the old quarter, lined with beautiful religious and civic buildings has maintained its Arab influence. Standing above the city is the 15th century church of Santa María la Mayor, built over a former Arab mosque. A walk through the historic old town reveals a treasure trove of Mudejar houses nestled against Renaissance and baroque buildings. At the city’s highest point in the city, the Almohad King Don Pedro Fortress, a former Arab fortress, offers stupendous views in a historic setting.