Safety in seville

There are a couple of "historic districts" in Sevilla. Which one were they talking about?

The neighborhood they were referring to is Santa cruz. Seemed to indicate it wasn't the place place to be at night.

Barrio Santa Cruz is the best of the "historic districts" in Sevilla, and I've stayed there several times without any concerns whatsoever.

Thanks very much. Ever stay at hotel Murillo? Any suggestions?

No, I haven't. I usually stay at the Hosteria De Dona Lina, just off Plaza Dona Elvira. Basic, but clean, comfortable, and inexpensive. It's a big old house that's been converted. It also has a restaurant, but any noise from that has never bothered me. The Murillo is more of a "hotel," and about twice the rate of the Dona Elvira. When I want to "splurge," I stay at the Best Western Cervantes, which is outside Santa Cruz (just north of the pedestian shopping streets) or, when I'm driving, at the Hesperia, which is east of the donwtown, only a few steps from a Metro stop (or about a 25-30 minute walk.)

Thanks so much. Very helpful. Looking forward to a great trip.

We have always stayed in Santa Cruz - on 4 or 5 separate trips. It is busy until quite late - as is common in much of Spain. Of course there are bad people everywhere but we live in Spain and find people in general to be very open, friendly and honest. To me what makes it probably safer is that the Spanish live in their cities and typically are out late at night - whole families from babies to grandmothers, whereas in some cities in other parts of the world you may get more of the young, drunken element only. Just my thoughts.

Liz hit the nail right on the head. You have to be out pretty late to see streets that aren't populated by people of all ages.

We stayed at the Murillo apartments,which were nice. We never felt unsafe and we were traveling with a child. It's the best part of town to stay in.

We arrived in Sevilla last night and stayed at the Alcantara (Rick's book) one night and tonight at Alminar (sister hotels) in the Santa Cruz district. Super safe, friendly. The hotels are better than expected unless you expect the Ritz. Breakfast for $6E was worth it this morning when we were in a hurry. Saw a Flamenco show for $15E, next to the Alcantara. We strolled around until 1AM and it started to quiet down. Just avoid beggars, politely "no gracias" to musicians who ask if you have a request or just enjoying your dinner. Tonight in front of the Cathedral we enjoyed a group of about 12 young adults, maybe college age, perform a sort of Spanish folklore dance that was a thrill.We gave them a euro or two, then later emptied all of our coins in their guitar case. We have walked all over for 2 days, no trouble. Today was the National transportation workers strike and we were in the middle of it as the streets were packed with about 5000 friendly demonstrators. This was a 1-day strike that ended by siesta time. An inconvenience for tourist and shoppers as stores closed there doors in the morning to avoid problems.Santa Cruz is the only neighborhood to stay in if you want to appreciate Sevilla. All of the food is good, best ambience is next to the cathedral. We started up conversations with Americans, Italians, young and old Spanish locals. The friendliest people outside of Disneyland. Be a local while you are here. I never expected Spain to be so amazing.

Bob - you nailed it. I LOVE Sevilla!