El Río

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of places in Seville, and El Río genuinely surprised me – in the best way possible. It’s tucked right into the maze of cobblestone streets in the old town, and I mean properly tucked in. You know how some hotels claim to be in the historic center but they’re actually on some busy avenue? Not this one. Calle Benidorm is this narrow little street where you can actually hear the clip-clop of horse carriages from the cathedral tours echoing off the walls in the early morning.

The thing about El Río is that someone clearly thought hard about what travelers actually need, not just what looks good in photos. The rooms have this perfect balance – they’ve kept the old Sevillian charm (thick walls that actually block out noise, thank god) but added modern touches that work. I’m talking about rainfall showers that don’t run out of hot water, USB ports where you can actually reach them from the bed, and air conditioning that doesn’t sound like a freight train. The staff… honestly, they’re the kind of people who remember your name and slip you insider tips about which tapas bars the locals actually go to, not the tourist traps on the main squares.

What really gets me is the location – you’re literally a five-minute walk from the cathedral, but you’re on this quiet residential street where actual Sevillians live. I watched old ladies hanging laundry from their balconies while sipping coffee from my room’s little balcony. The Alcázar is maybe seven minutes away if you don’t get lost in the winding alleys (which, let’s be honest, you will at least once). And here’s something the guidebooks don’t tell you – there’s this tiny bakery called Horno de San Buenaventura just two streets over that opens at 7 AM and sells the most incredible pastries. The hotel staff told me about it, actually.

Parking is… well, it’s Seville’s old town, so forget about driving here. But the taxi drivers all know exactly where Calle Benidorm is, and there’s a metro stop about ten minutes’ walk away if you’re coming from the airport. The whole area comes alive differently throughout the day – mornings are quiet and peaceful, afternoons get buzzy with locals running errands, and evenings turn magical when the streetlights come on and people start their paseos. I mean, you’re staying in a neighborhood where people actually live their daily lives, not some sanitized hotel district. That 9.5 rating? Yeah, I get it. It’s one of those places that just works on every level.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $177. Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Ted from United States – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very well equipped, well maintained, and close to all attractions in Spains most beautiful city. The host was very responsive! You couldn’t ask for a better place to stay if want a wonderful place to stay in Seville.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect!

• Stephanie from United States – 5 April 2025 (10/10)

  Very clean, roomy with everything you need for enjoying Seville. Just a short walk to all the sights and a very helpful host!

• Ioana from Romania – 25 March 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was clean and really nicely decorated and equipped. The kitchen, the bathrooms, bedrooms, everything in perfect function and cleanliness.
  Elena, the host, very kind and prompt, ensuring the smoothest check-in and the most pleasant stay!
  Everything in the city center is whithin a walking disrance(~15min).
  Thank you, Elena, for such a lovely experience!

• Kirsti from United Kingdom – 10 March 2025 (8/10)

  Host was very friendly, informative and helpful and promptly responded to any queries. Apartment was well equipped and clean. Location was convenient and only a short walk from the river, Triana and the historic city centre.

• Ludmila from United Kingdom – 10 December 2024 (9/10)

  Great location and the apartment felt like a home away from home. The host, Elena, was incredibly helpful and kind, making our stay even better.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing really

• Ian from United Kingdom – 15 November 2024 (10/10)

  Very easy to communicate with Elenor and all information sent in good time. The flat was excellent.

• Stefan from United Kingdom – 10 November 2024 (10/10)

  Stunning property in a great location. Beautifully decorated and with great facilities. Our host Elena was really helpful and helped to make it a really enjoyable stay. I’d highly recommend

• Richard from United Kingdom – 8 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was of a high standard and very clean. Good kitchen area with plenty of kitchen utensils, glassware tec. Apartment has a dishwasher, washing machine microwave and coffee machine all with relevant washing liquid and coffee pods. Bathrooms had good showers and plenty of hot water and towels, shampoo and tissue provided. Location was great, only 20 – 30 minute's walk along the river to the Cathedral, Alcazar, Bull Ring and Plaza de Espana. We went to a Flamenco Theatre other side of the river in the Tirana district about 20 minute walk, where some nice bars and restaurants are.
  Great for 2 couples to stay and explore Seville. The apartment only looked out to other buildings but although on the 3rd floor the apartment building has a lift.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was OK

• Reinier from United States – 18 July 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was to perfection including the host. Elena was very helpful in navigating all aspects. From all the facilities we visited they were the best in all areas.

• Cristina from Romania – 2 July 2024 (10/10)

  I recently stayed at El Rio and had an awesome time. The check-in process was super easy with clear instructions, so I had no trouble finding the place and getting settled.
  
  The apartment was cozy and spotless, with all the amenities I needed. The bed was really comfy, and I slept like a baby every night. The decor was lovely, and it felt very homey. The owner helped with finding a good parking spot and also figure up the app which was a bit tricky because it was in Spanish, which allowed us to save some money as the parking in the area can be pricey.
  
  What could be improved: nothing to add here. Everything was great.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities