Ereda’s Adventures

Last summer, my sister and I spent a week in Sevilla, Spain—and I can confidently say it was one of the best trips I’ve ever had. There’s something magical about that city. Maybe it’s the way the sun kisses the ancient walls, or maybe it’s the warmth of the people. Whatever it was, Sevilla made me feel something I don’t often experience when traveling: it felt like home.

We arrived to that famous Andalusian sun—bright, golden, and ever-present. The weather was hot, yes, but it made everything more vivid. The narrow streets, the white-washed walls, the blooming bougainvillea, the deep orange glow in the evenings… Sevilla is the kind of place where the city itself feels alive.

One of the first things I noticed was how traditional the city is—there’s a sense of pride in the culture, but also a genuine warmth toward visitors. People speak to you. And not just in passing—if you’re dressed up or simply looking good, they will give you a compliment. That doesn’t happen often in Germany, and even back home in Albania it’s rare. But in Sevilla? People notice you, and they’re not shy about showing appreciation. It’s a lovely, human thing.

We did one of those iconic horse-drawn carriage rides—paseo en coche de caballos, as the locals call it. A traditional Andalusian carriage, led by a beautiful horse and a driver dressed in the classic outfit. It’s a very touristy thing to do, yes, but it’s also romantic and incredibly scenic. We clicked through the cobblestone streets, past palm trees and historic buildings, soaking in the essence of Sevilla.

And speaking of landmarks, how could I forget the stunning Real Alcázar—yes, that’s the name of the castle I momentarily blanked on (shame on me, indeed). It’s one of Sevilla’s most iconic sights, and for good reason. The intricate Moorish architecture, the royal gardens, the tilework—it’s a place where history and beauty dance together.

We also visited other famous spots like Plaza de España, which honestly felt like walking through a movie set, and the Giralda Tower and Seville Cathedral, both massive and beautiful, whispering centuries of stories.

Of course, no trip to Spain is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. We tried traditional tapas—from salmorejo to croquetas, jamón ibérico, and everything in between. We sipped cold cerveza in the city center as life unfolded around us. There’s a rhythm to Sevilla’s way of life that’s just so effortless and yet so full.

The nightlife? Oh, it’s something else. Not the kind of wild, chaotic partying you might find in the UK or even Germany. No. Sevilla’s nightlife is warm, alive. People don’t get drunk just to forget the night; they celebrate it. There’s dancing, laughter, conversation, and that sense of community that makes you feel like you’re a part of something bigger.

My sister speaks Spanish fluently, which helped a lot. I know a few words myself, and honestly, the locals are more than willing to meet you halfway. Most people speak some English, and even when they don’t, there’s a kindness in how they try to understand and help you.

Looking back, summer in Sevilla felt like a dream. If you’re thinking of going to Spain, trust me—go in the summer, and go to Sevilla. It’s beautiful, it’s warm in every possible sense of the word, and it might just be the kind of place that leaves you a little more full than when you arrived.