The cold, dark autumn days seemed to have come around quicker than ever before so it’s only normal to already be craving some sun.
But with temperatures across the continent dropping as well, it can often be hard to find the heat without taking a long flight much further afield. P
arts of Spain have become one to avoid in the summer, with temperatures often rising above 40C come the autumn, everything changes.
Capturing the perfect summer weather deep into the autumn, Europe’s hottest city is a must-visit to top up the tan and feel refreshed after some muhc needed vitamin D.
Welcome to Seville, Andalusia’s glorious capital and Europe’s hottest city.
Now transformed into one of the continent’s most appealing autumn escapes, the city reaches highs dipping into the mid-20s and long evenings perfect for tucking into some tapas while sipping on sangria.
Although it may seem like an attractive choice in peak summer, it can feel more like a furnace than a holiday escape. With daytime highs that regularly soar above 40°C, even locals take shelter indoors during the afternoon.
Tourists who venture out often find themselves in a sweaty battle with the relentless heat but by delaying your trip by just a few months, you’ll find yourself in a perfect climate.
The drop in temperature brings not just relief, but also renewed energy to its streets, plazas and bustling neighbourhoods with plenty more people out enjoying the city – not only sticking to the safety of air-conditioned homes.
The milder climate means you can finally wander through some of the city’s most stunning scenery, whether it’s wandering through Real Alcázar’s gardens without rushing for shade or climbing the Giralda tower for sweeping city views without breaking a sweat. In October, sunshine still averages seven hours a day, so there’s no shortage of bright blue skies.
The lower tourist numbers also mean shorter queues at star attractions like the Cathedral of Seville, the picture-perfect Plaza de España and the iconic wooden Setas de Sevilla.
Equally, the cooler evenings see Sevillanos reclaim their streets. Tapas bars in the trendy neighbourhoods Santa Cruz and Triana fill with locals, and the noise of flamenco performances can be heard echoing around the streets.
Seville is also remarkably affordable; not only will hotels and Airbnb’s over autumn not set you back a fortune, but the traditional Andalusian tapas bars will leave you full of both food and wine without leaving a dent in your wallet.
For those wanting to extend a stay for longer than a weekend, day trips out to the Costa de la Luz and one of Europe’s oldest cities, Cadiz, are a must.
Return flights in October can be picked up for as little as £40 with budget airlines Ryanair, EasyJet and Vueling all offering flights direct to airports around the UK.