We are nailing down the final details of our fast approaching trip to Andalucia.
Remaining questions are:
Thanks so much, in advance, for your help!
We didn’t pre book either. We arrived at the Alcázar when it opened and there were only a couple others in the ticket line. For the Mezquita, we went there after checking into our hotel and there was no line.
If you know for certain when you’ll be visiting each place, if it would ease any anxiety about tickets possibly selling out, getting them a day or two in advance wouldn’t hurt.
It's been a few years, but I had no trouble getting a Mezquita ticket on the spot on a weekend. There was a long line for the window, but next to it were several machines with no line. The machine was easy enough to use.
I wouldn't make the same assumption about the Alcazar in Sevilla, you might try a dummy booking for tomorrow or the next day just to see what the availability is. What day of the week and what time of year might make a difference too.
I'm sure there are a variety of amazing restaurants in all those places, but my lunch at Terra Olea in Cordoba is one of those meal experiences I'll never forget. Its contemporary take on Spanish classics, all made with local products—all Andalucian, mostly from the Province of Cordoba, and the chef/owner personally knows most of the producers.
They offer two tasting menus, the smaller one was 44€. I added the wine pairing, water, and coffee and walked out for around 70€. That's a pretty indulgent price for lunch in Spain, but it was pennies on the dollar versus something comparable in the US.
El Rinconcillo is the 'don't miss' in Sevilla. Classic tapas served standing at the bar or high-top tables. By no means is it a secret, but the location a few minutes outside of the tourist orbit keeps out the hoards and locals were the majority when I was there.
Thanks so much for these helpful responses!
@Scudder - Thanks for your recommendation of El Rinconcillo as we wondered if, as “the oldest tapas bar in Seville”, it might be a tourist trap. Terra Olea looks amazing, so thanks for that recommendation too. Fingers crossed that we will be able to get into both!
Would love to hear from others about their favorite restaurants in Andalucia.
