Review of AC Ciudad de Sevilla, by Byron Browne

Just a twenty-minute walk from Seville's Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede, AC Ciudad de Sevilla more resembles one of the posh, luxurious homes that line Siurot Avenue than a hotel. Small wonder, given that this historic luxury hotel was built as part of the 1929 World Exposition and, in the 1930s, was the private residence of a Sevillian doctor. In fact, the façade has been maintained to hold that visage particular to this antiquated section of town.

This historic hotel's character is, throughout, stunning. The modern, sleek, black contours of the interior walls and furniture, dramatically punctuated with white marble floors, rests in harmonious juxtaposition with the façade's nearly century-old exterior. Couple this beautiful architecture with an amazingly friendly staff and your stay is certain to be perfect.

The facilities

Guests at the AC Ciudad De Sevilla can begin their day with a traditional, yet expansive European breakfast at La Mejorana, the luxury hotel's restaurant. In addition to serving regular meals, which are also routinely enjoyed by the local populace, the restaurant offers room service 24 hours a day. Guests may also take their meals or drinks at the rooftop pool or even find refreshments in the fitness centre.

Of course, room service extends to the lounge area where guests can watch the local football teams (members of the local team Real-Betis are regular guests before games) on a large, plasma TV or mail family from the free internet computer. The nurturing reaches into AC hotel rooms where the mini-bar is always stocked with water, sodas and juices and is always gratis.

The rooms

All 86 rooms at this historic hotel maintain the modern stylings of the reception and lounge areas; trim, contemporary furniture accented by over-sized, black and white photograph wall hangings. Large, marble-floored bathrooms each house whirlpool baths that will delight any guest. The Superior Suite (one of ten on the property - there are nine "junior suites") will astonish with its three tiers and private rooftop terrace.

This historic AC hotel is situated in a very popular residential area of Seville. Within walking distance of the city's lively town centre, it is just distant enough to exclude the din of that area's activity. Booking well in advance is recommended.