When it comes to luxury getaways in Spain, Seville and Granada offer an intoxicating blend of history, culture, and indulgence. While these cities are renowned for their grand palaces and winding Moorish streets, they also provide tranquil escapes where luxury meets heritage.
From traditional hammams to boutique retreats set within historic palaces, here’s how to experience the refined side of Andalucia.
The Moorish Legacy: A Backdrop of Elegance
Seville and Granada were shaped by centuries of Moorish rule, leaving behind an architectural and cultural legacy that continues to enchant visitors. From the intricate stucco work of the Alhambra to the shaded courtyards of Seville’s Alcázar, these cities offer a glimpse into a bygone time. This influence extends beyond landmarks, permeating the very essence of high-end stays and experiences available today.
Seville: A City of Opulent Escapes
Seville’s reputation for grandeur is well-earned, but beyond the lively tapas bars and flamenco tablaos lies a more serene, indulgent side waiting to be explored.
Palatial Stays & Tranquil Courtyards
For a palatial experience, stay in one of Seville’s former palaces turned boutique hotels. Corral del Rey, set in a meticulously restored 17th-century building, offers a blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury. With its rooftop pool overlooking the cathedral and intimate courtyards, it’s a perfect retreat from the city’s energy.
Alternatively, the Hotel Casa del Poeta, nestled in the Jewish Quarter, provides an exclusive stay where candlelit evenings and live guitar performances create an atmosphere of timeless romance.
Hammams & Holistic Indulgence
Few things are as luxurious as stepping into an authentic hammam. Inspired by the Arab baths of Al-Andalus, AIRE Ancient Baths in Seville is an underground sanctuary where candlelight flickers against centuries-old walls. Here, you can soak in thermal pools, indulge in aromatherapy massages, or opt for the decadent red wine bath experience.
For those seeking a modern twist on relaxation, Las Termas de Hispalis offers thermal circuits combined with cutting-edge wellness treatments in a setting that respects traditional Andalusian architecture.
Gastronomy & Exclusive Experiences
Luxury in Seville isn’t just about where you stay, but also how you eat. While the city is famous for its tapas, those looking for a more refined dining experience should consider Abantal, Seville’s Michelin-starred restaurant, where Andalucian flavours meld with the modern through innovative techniques.
For something more private, arrange an exclusive rooftop dinner overlooking the Giralda or take a private sherry-tasting tour, delving into the region’s best vintages with an expert sommelier.
Granada: A Timeless Beauty
Granada, with its dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada and the Alhambra’s golden glow, offers an altogether different but equally opulent experience. Here, luxury is found in hushed patios, Moorish courtyards, and breathtaking vistas.
Boutique Hotels & Alhambra Views
For an unforgettable stay, check into Hospes Palacio de los Patos, a 19th-century palace transformed into a five-star sanctuary, where classical elegance meets contemporary comfort. Another option is Parador de Granada, set within a 15th-century monastery in the Alhambra grounds, offering views of the ancient fortress.
For those who crave exclusivity, consider Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol, a boutique guesthouse where personalised service and panoramic terraces offer a haven above the city.
Arab Baths & Relaxation
Granada’s Moorish past is best experienced through its hammam culture. Hammam Al Ándalus, located near the old Silk Market, recreates the traditional Arab bath experience with a series of pools, steam rooms, and essential oil massages. The setting, with its dim lantern-lit rooms and ancient tilework, feels like stepping back in time.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, many boutique hotels offer private hammam sessions, a mix of historical bathing rituals and modern wellness treatments.
Dining & Wine Tasting
Granada’s food scene is a rich fusion of Moorish influences and Spanish culinary traditions. For an exceptional meal, Restaurante Faralá, set near the Alhambra, offers an elegant take on local flavours with seasonal tasting menus.
For something off the beaten path, embark on a private wine tour through the Alpujarras, the mountainous region south of Granada, where boutique wineries produce some of Spain’s most unique vintages. A personalised tasting amidst vineyard-draped hills is the perfect way to end a luxurious retreat.
Read our destination guide to Granada
Experience Andalucia in Style
Whether you’re wandering the lantern-lit alleys of Seville’s old town or sipping wine against the backdrop of the Alhambra, luxury in these cities is about more than just indulgence, it’s about experiencing history, culture, and tranquillity in its most refined form.
TOMA & COE can tailor an exclusive itinerary ensuring you experience the very best of Seville and Granada, from opulent stays to private cultural encounters. If you’re ready to immerse yourself in Andalucia’s most exquisite retreats, let us take care of the details, so all you have to do is enjoy the experience.
