From Seville: Italica Roman City & Medieval Monastery Tour

Discover the fascinating history of Italica, the birthplace of Roman Emperors Trajan and Hadrian, on this half-day tour from Seville. Priced at $44 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this experience combines the exploration of Roman ruins with a visit to a medieval monastery. The tour is suitable for those interested in history, archaeology, or television fans who want to see filming locations from Game of Thrones. Travelers can opt for either a shared or private experience, with a local guide leading the way, making the journey both informative and personal.

While the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into ancient and medieval Spain, it involves walking through extensive ruins and some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. The inclusion of transportation and skip-the-line tickets enhances convenience, though food and drinks are not included. This tour appeals most to history enthusiasts, TV fans, and those seeking a meaningful half-day excursion from Seville.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $44 and lasts about 4 hours.
• Main stops: Italica, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and amphitheater, and the Medieval Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.
• Highlights: Visit the birthplace of Emperors Trajan and Hadrian, see one of the largest Roman amphitheaters, and explore scenes from Game of Thrones.
• Tour format: Options for shared or private groups, with live guides speaking in multiple languages.
• Transport: Air-conditioned vans take you comfortably from Seville to Santiponce and between sites.
• Guides: Known for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling, guides like Juanna, Sergio, and José receive high praise.

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From Seville to the Roman City of Italica

This tour departs from Seville, starting at one of three convenient meeting points: Calle Trajano, Hotel Don Paco, or Calle Rastro. The journey to Santiponce takes approximately 30 minutes by comfortable, air-conditioned bus or van. The smooth ride sets the tone for a relaxed exploration of Italy’s ancient past.

Once at the Italica archaeological site, the guided tour lasts about 105 minutes. Visitors are led through well-preserved ruins that include mosaics, Roman streets, and an impressive amphitheater. The site was founded in 206 BC by General Publius Cornelius Scipio as a settlement for wounded soldiers after the battle of Illipa.

Exploring the Roman Amphitheater

The amphitheater of Italica is one of the largest in the world, capable of seating up to 25,000 spectators. Tour participants walk through the tunnels used by gladiators and stand within the lion’s den. Its size and preservation make it a highlight, especially for fans of ancient architecture or Game of Thrones, where scenes from the Dragonpit were filmed here during season seven.

The amphitheater’s grandeur provides an impressive glimpse into Roman entertainment and engineering. Visitors appreciate the way the guide explains how the space was used and what remains today, making the history come alive.

Visiting the Birthplaces of Trajan and Hadrian

The tour takes you to the birthplaces of Emperors Trajan and Hadrian, central figures in Roman history. The ruins and mosaic floors at Italica mark where these influential leaders were born around 53 AD and 76 AD, respectively. Walking through this site makes the past feel tangible, and guides often share stories about these emperors’ legacies.

Scenes from Game of Thrones at Italica

Fans of Game of Thrones find particular interest in visiting the amphitheater and surrounding area, which served as filming locations for the Dragonpit. The site’s dramatic setting provides a real sense of the show’s fictional world, adding a layer of excitement for TV enthusiasts.

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The Medieval Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo

After exploring Italica, the tour proceeds to the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, a medieval fortress combining Mudejar, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. This 40-minute guided visit offers a contrast to the Roman ruins, revealing Spain’s medieval history.

While only parts of the monastery are open, visitors enjoy seeing the fortress’s structure and imagining life during its heyday. The site’s beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile addition to the tour, especially for those interested in medieval architecture.

The Return Journey and Drop-Off Points

Following the monastery visit, the group boards the bus for the 30-minute ride back to Seville. The tour ends at one of the original meeting points: Calle Trajano, Hotel Don Paco, or Calle Rastro. The smooth return allows for reflection on the day’s discoveries and offers flexibility for the rest of your itinerary.

Flexibility and Booking Options

This tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to plan ahead. The tour also accommodates private groups and small groups, which can enhance the experience with a more personalized approach.

Guides are available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring a comfortable experience for diverse travelers. Contact the provider beforehand to confirm your preferred language and pickup details.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Since the tour involves outdoor walking, footwear should be suitable for uneven surfaces. The pickup service begins early, so travelers should confirm their exact pick-up time and location with the local provider.

Infant seats are available upon request, and children must always be accompanied by an adult. Students up to 25 years old should bring a valid student ID to receive any applicable discounts.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge, friendliness, and engaging style of guides like Juanna, Sergio, José, Nacho, Alberto, and Rebecca. Visitors consistently praise their ability to bring history to life, answer questions, and make the day enjoyable.

While some reviews mention a delay or larger group sizes, the overall sentiment remains positive, emphasizing well-organized logistics and enthusiastic guidance. The combination of Roman ruins and the medieval monastery provides a balanced, enriching experience.

Final Thoughts on the From Seville: Italica Roman City & Medieval Monastery Tour

This 4-hour guided trip from Seville offers a well-rounded look at Spain’s ancient Roman past alongside its medieval heritage. The large amphitheater, impressive mosaics, and historical context provide plenty to fascinate history buffs, while the Game of Thrones filming locations add a fun twist.

The local guides’ expertise and the comfortable transportation make this tour both easy and engaging. The price point of $44 reflects good value, considering the quality and variety of sights included. It’s an excellent choice for those keen on archaeology, Roman architecture, or Spanish history.

While some might find the group size challenging or prefer more food options, the overall experience remains rewarding. Travelers seeking a meaningful, informative half-day with memorable sights will find this tour worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers tickets to Italica, transportation, and a local guide. Food and drinks are not included.

How long is the tour at each site?
The guided tour at Italica lasts around 105 minutes, and the monastery visit takes approximately 40 minutes.

Are private tours available?
Yes, groups can opt for private or small group experiences to enhance personalization.

What should I bring?
Participants need comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for outdoor walking.

Can children join the tour?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Infant seats are available upon request.

How do I confirm my pickup?
Contact the local provider before your tour date to reconfirm the pickup location and time. Pickup times may vary depending on the season.

This From Seville: Italica Roman City & Medieval Monastery Tour offers a balanced, enriching look into Spain’s Roman and medieval history, with expert guides and a comfortable logistics setup. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a TV fan, or simply curious about Seville’s nearby archaeological treasures, this tour stands out as a reliable choice.

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