Hotel Las Casas de la Judería

Las Casas de la Judería is one of the most unusual places to stay in Seville. Rather than one building, the four-star hotel is made up of 27 old houses in the former Jewish quarter, joined together by around 30 patios, passageways and corridors. Walking from reception to your room can feel like exploring a small village, with fountains, plants, tiles and arches around each corner.

The houses date from several centuries and were restored and connected to create the hotel, which belongs to the Casas y Palacios group, along with sister hotels in Córdoba's Jewish quarter, in Granada and in the Seville Arenal. The decoration is traditional and Andalusian in style, and each part of the hotel has its own character. Rooms vary considerably in size and layout because of the historic buildings, so it is worth reading the room descriptions carefully when you book.

The hotel's charm lies in its atmosphere rather than in modern facilities. The many courtyards provide quiet corners to sit with a book in the afternoon. The hotel staff can help with tickets and recommendations for the monuments and flamenco shows nearby.

It suits couples, families and older travellers who want a characterful, traditional hotel at a mid-range price, and who do not mind a few long corridors. Those with limited mobility should ask about room location in advance, as the layout involves walking between buildings and some changes of level. Like everywhere in the old town, prices increase during Holy Week and the April Fair.

The hotel lies on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz quarter, near the church of Santa María la Blanca, a former synagogue, and the Calle Santa María la Blanca with its bars and terraces. The Alcázar and the Cathedral are about ten minutes' walk through the lanes of Santa Cruz, the Jardines de Murillo are close by, and Casa de Pilatos is a short walk to the north. Taxis can reach the area easily via the Avenida de Menéndez Pelayo, which is useful on arrival with luggage. The Hospital de los Venerables, with its Velázquez centre, is also within a short walk.