Hotel Sacristia de Santa Ana

A classically styled hotel set in an immaculately restored 18th-century convent in the Alameda district, surrounded by popular restaurants and bars

Located in Seville’s trendy Alameda district, close to the city centre and high-street shops, this 18th-century former convent built on the site of a Roman temple has been meticulously transformed into a chic hotel, spread over 3 levels. Frescoed ceilings, Roman statues, oak beams, vaulted abóbada cloisters and the beautiful galleried courtyard stand testament to its auspicious history. Fresh and elegant, the 25 pale green bedrooms have pleasing details such as wooden shutters and painted or carved headboards.

The hotel overlooks La Alameda de Hercules plaza, which is awash with cafes, restaurants and nightclubs popular with the bohemian set. It's a great area to go out in and a perfect place to people watch; expect to see throngs of beautiful young Sevillanos, especially at weekends. By opting for this neighbourhood, you'll get an instant taste of how the locals wind down and enjoy themselves; follow their lead and fall in love with this beautiful city.

Highs

• Cosy atmosphere and beautifully furnished rooms
• Simple, no-fuss service - genuinely helpful staff with perfect English will give as much attention as required, without being overly fussy
• Well priced, especially in low season
• Glorious central courtyard, complete with a trickling fountain
• It's a low-key sanctuary - despite the high-octane location, this 'monastic' hotel is not a place for riotous behaviour

Lows

• Expect plenty of streetlife and live music (especially on weekends), which may seep into street-facing rooms
• Few communal areas for lounging, and no pool or garden; not ideal for Seville's sweltering summer temperatures
• Rooms above Sacristia Corridor have very little natural light
• Breakfasts are disappointing and there's no restaurant, but you have lots of dining options close by