Santa Cruz on a first visit: the Alcázar and cathedral are at hand

Rooms facing an interior patio are cooler and quieter

Centro and Alfalfa: the densest tapas streets, 5-10 min away

Arenal puts the river and the cathedral within five minutes

Triana suits a second visit or a stay of four nights or more

Alameda de Hércules: bars until about 2am, the wrong base to sleep

In summer, confirm air con in the room: all areas in the full guide