Novotel Sevilla

This typical Novotel doesn't really have many surprises for those familiar with the brand. It's a mid-sized option with neutral style and an almost mall-like layout that has a slightly impersonal vibe, though it manages to stay busy almost year round. Potted plants inside add greenery to the modern glass and marble space, which has multiple seating groups provide places for guests to hang out. Colorful modern art hangs on the walls. Separate areas in the lobby provide a children's play area, a computer desk, and gathering spaces. Regardless, this hotel is a lively option that draws all sorts of guests, including couples, families, and even some business travelers. 

This hotel is situated in a busy area next to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium, where the Sevilla F.C. team of the top-division La Liga club plays soccer. Numerous bars, restaurants, shops, and a large shopping center are in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. It is a bit removed from the city center and major attractions, but the Nervion Metro station is a three-minute walk from the property. The must-see Catedral de Sevilla and the Real Alcazar palace complex are about 15 minutes away by car or 20 minutes by public transportation. The Seville Airport is about a 20-minute drive northeast, or about 35 minutes away by public transportation. 

Unfortunately, there is a bit of a discrepancy in quality among the rooms at this Novotel outpost. The best rooms are modern and fresh, with wood floors, contemporary light wood furniture, simple white walls and bed coverings, and beige draperies. Brightly colored desk chairs and benches -- as well as wall art -- add a splash of color to the otherwise neutral palette. Guests should be aware that not all rooms have been modernize, though, and some still have outdated carpeting and a generally worn appearance. Amenities are plentiful and include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, kettles for tea and coffee, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Executive Rooms have sofa beds. Family and connecting rooms are available. Bathrooms are small, but modern and sparkling clean, and they come with bidets, shower/tub combos, Fair Trade toiletries, and hairdryers.

Features here are on par with those at other Novotel outposts. The casual on-site restaurant is a bright, airy space with wood floors and modern wooden tables. Breakfast is available daily for a fee, and lunch and dinner are also available. Breakfast can be a hectic affair. The bar serves drinks and light fare, and there's live entertainment some nights. A bar by the outdoor pool is open seasonally. The outdoor pool is long and narrow, meaning it gets crowded in high season, but it's a nice place for taking in views of the city. The rooftop terrace also is a draw for relaxing outdoors in nice weather. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available. A tiny fitness center has a few cardio machines with a wall-mounted flat-screen TV for entertainment, though it's only sufficient for basic workouts. Events spaces are available for gatherings, and one space can accommodate up to 230 people. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. On-site garage parking costs extra.