Hotel Rey Alfonso X

The mattress felt quite firm, though that’s personal preference. When we mentioned it at reception, they brought up a mattress pad right away and it helped a lot. We should’ve said something sooner. The team were excellent from arrival, arranging early check-in and late check-out, greeting us by name and keeping the room cleaning up throughout. Our room was large, with a sitting area, shower and bath. We knew it didn’t have a view and chose the extra space and convenience. The hotel is modern, spacious and exceptionally clean, right by the historic old town and a five-minute walk from the cathedral. It made exploring Sevilla easy, and we’d happily stay again.

The staff were lovely and did their best, including parking cars and sending complimentary wine for New Year’s. Still, for the price I expected a bit more of a lush feel. The hotel seems to be coasting on looks that have faded, and the 2012 refurbishment I read about shows its age. Our room felt almost monastic, and after a long travel day we found there wasn’t even room for both of us to sit down at once. Soundproofing was minimal too. I could hear my neighbour’s whole phone conversation at 2am. The historic centre location made it easy to walk to nearly every attraction on our list and several tapas bars, and some people will like the location and experience. But that’s also why it’s expensive. For a hotel charging at the nicer end of 4-star prices, it felt uncompetitive against other Spanish hotels at this price point. I think you can probably find somewhere nicer for a similar amount.

We had a really pampered three-night stay at AlfonsyRey X! The breakfast spread was lovely, with warm dishes like omelettes made to order, and the reception team were all friendly and helpful. There’s a self-service laundry across the street and the popular tapas Bartalo next door. We stayed in Santa Cruz barrio, right in the middle of the action, but barely heard any noise in our room. Everything was within walking distance, including the major attractions. Gracias to the team!

Breakfast had a really good range, from cheese, ham and salami to fruit, donuts, croissants and cookies. The coffee machines were more than good enough, and the breakfast staff were helpful. The reception team were helpful with everything and even gave us a map when we didn’t have one. The hotel was very centrally located, with everything just 5-10 minutes away. Our room was spacious and had thoughtful guest items like a comb, toothbrush, toothpaste and kettle. Both the room and hotel were exceptionally clean. They also surprised us with champagne, such an elegant, thoughtful gesture. I’d definitely choose Hotel Rey Alfonso again if I return to Seville, and highly recommend it. It should meet your expectations for a trip.