I have been looking for rentals for several days in Sevilla. We prefer that to staying in a hotel. I notice there are many apartments in the area of Calle Mateos Gago (Hotel 1800 seems to be in that area as well which appears to be a nice hotel). Is this a good area?
Are there any sketchy areas we should be wary of? We want to be close to the main sights, restaurants etc., but not necessarily in the middle of a nightclub or rowdy area.
Yes, that is a good area. There are a lot of restaurants and bars there - it will not be quiet, but it's not rowdy - just a lot of people out and about, and since this is Spain they will be out late.
I am not aware of any sketchy areas in the main city, near the sights. I assume it is like many other European cities in that the sketchy parts are outside of the center, in places you will be unlikely to go on a tourist visit. I can't say that for sure, but I have been all over the center and not been anywhere I felt uncomfortable.
Last visit I stayed at El Rey Moro on Calle Lope de Rueda. This area is very close to the center, and to the part you are discussing, and is a little quieter (nothing in core Sevilla is quiet, it is a lively place!) than being right on the main path to the Cathedral.
Indeed, it's very central. If you'll be there in hot weather, you will want AC. With that on and the windows closed, it shouldn't be noisy. I stay in the Juderia, at the Amadeus hotel which is on a very quiet side street. In that area, most of the side streets are very quiet. 5 minutes' walk closer to the Cathedral (where you're looking), I think there are more cafes on the side streets, so perhaps a little noisy, but certainly not rowdy any time and no loud music late at night. I've never felt uncomfortable walking around Sevilla alone late at night. Dinner isn't usually eaten before 9 pm and 9.30 or 10.00 is usual.
