Seville

Seville is a beautiful and fascinating city in southern Spain, as well as an example of the country's living history. It's a little city full of Roman ruins, Moorish constructions and palaces, and Gothic churches from the time of Castilian domination (the period when Spain was ruled by kings and queens). Islamic history and culture are especially rich here, as the city was the capital of the ruling Moorish dynasty for most of the time it was under their control.

Seville is also the home of flamenco dancing and the related musical style, thus music and dance are both taken extremely seriously here. Santa Cruz is another famous tourist destination, with the city's massive Gothic cathedral and the Real Alcazar royal castle complex. The palace, which was erected for the city's Islamic rulers, is a true piece of living history, as it is used by the current Spanish royal family when they are in town.

• Best time to visit: From March to May
• Location: Sevilla, Spain