Forget about Plaza de España, the Giralda, and even the Real Alcázar. Or rather, not entirely; but do bear in mind that, during the Feria, your life will revolve around the fairgrounds. This is where you’ll find the area known as the Real de la Feria, home to more than a thousand casetas welcoming locals and visitors alike.

In fact, it’s very likely that, as you read this, many of them are already set up and that everything is gradually being prepared for the starting signal: the traditional Alumbrao, when the spectacular entrance gate is illuminated along with the hundreds of thousands of light bulbs that decorate the site. It takes place at midnight from 20 to 21 April, and, of course, there will be fried fish (pescaíto frito) ready to enjoy in the casetas.

After that, all that’s left is to dress the part: flamenco dresses for women and traditional country attire for men, and make the fairgrounds your second home in Seville (your first, of course, will be our hotels in the city).

Lanterns, shawls, hats, combs, horse-drawn carriages, horses, riders, music playing here and there well into the early hours, and a sense of elegance and grace that few places can match. These are days for toasting with rebujito and manzanilla, and for recharging with cured meats, the already mentioned fried fish, and other delights of Andalusian cuisine. You’ll need it after dancing sevillanas (or at least trying to) in the casetas.

Keep in mind that most casetas are private, and you’ll only be able to access them with an invitation from a member. No need to worry, though, as there are also public casetas at the Feria de Abril. Just ask about them when you arrive at the fairgrounds.

Head to Calle del Infierno, popularly known as los cacharritos, if you’re someone who enjoys a dose of adrenaline. This area turns into an amusement park with hundreds of attractions for both children and adults, complete with stalls selling sweets and treats.

And yes, it may feel overwhelming at times, almost impossible to take it all in, but before you know it, it will be midnight on Sunday 26 April, and you’ll find yourself watching —in awe and with a touch of nostalgia— the fireworks display that brings the Feria de Abril to a close until next year.

With such a full agenda, rest won’t be negotiable during your stay in Seville. For us, it never is; but we know that during the Feria de Abril, comfort and tranquillity in your accommodation become even more important.

There’s nothing to worry about: at Sercotel Sevilla Don Luciano, Sercotel Las Casas de los Mercaderes, Sercotel Sevilla Guadalquivir Suites, and Sercotel Doña Carmela, everything is ready to make your visit as comfortable as it is memorable. Because after a day (and night) at the Feria, there’s nothing better than returning to a place where you can slow down… without ever feeling like the journey has ended.