Hotels near Alameda de Hercules

The Alameda de Hercules is the oldest public garden in Spain and possibly in Europe, established in 1574. The promenade is anchored by two Roman columns at the south end - originally from a temple on Calle Marmoles - topped with statues of Hercules and Julius Caesar. For much of the 20th century the area was run-down, but a thorough renovation in the 2000s turned it into the centre of Seville's alternative and nightlife scene without losing its local character.

Today the wide, tree-lined promenade is ringed with bars, cafes, and restaurants that fill outdoor terraces from mid-afternoon until well past midnight. On Sundays, a flea market and artisan market occupy the central strip. The Alameda is where locals go - particularly younger sevillanos and the LGBTQ+ community - and it offers a useful counterpoint to the more manicured tourist areas around the Cathedral. The surrounding streets hold independent shops, vintage clothing stores, and some of the city's most interesting small galleries.

Pro Tip: The Alameda is at its best from Thursday to Saturday evening, when the terraces fill up and street musicians play. Combine it with a visit to Metropol Parasol (a 10-minute walk south) for a route that shows you Seville's modern and local side. Sunday morning is the time for the flea market.