Practicalities

Planning your stay is an important part of making the most of your Spanish immersion experience. Below you’ll find some practical information to help you decide when to travel, what to expect, and how to prepare for your time in Andalusia.

When is the best time to visit?

In our experience, the best time to visit Andalusia is from October to May.

During the summer months, temperatures regularly rise above 40°C, especially inland. While some people enjoy the heat, it can be challenging for studying, concentrating and enjoying daily life comfortably.

Travelling outside the peak summer season tends to mean:

  • more pleasant temperatures

  • lower prices for flights and accommodation

  • a calmer, more authentic local atmosphere

If your travel dates are flexible, visiting outside peak season is highly recommended.

Weather and seasons

Écija enjoys many sunny days throughout the year, but each season has its own character:

  • Autumn (October–November): hot/warm days, cooler evenings and a relaxed rhythm

  • Winter (December–February): mild daytime temperatures, chilly nights, plenty of sunshine, and also some rainy days

  • Spring (March–May): warm/hot, bright days, blossoming orange trees and lively local life

Spring is a personal favourite. When the orange blossoms flower, the whole town becomes fragrant, the weather is ideal for being outdoors, and moods lift after winter. The occasional rainy day reminds you why locals say "¡La lluvia en Sevilla es una maravilla!"

Festivals and local events

If you enjoy experiencing local traditions, you may want to plan your stay around specific events. Here are some highlights in and around Écija:

  • January: Three Kings’ Parade (Cabalgata de los Reyes), Carlos III Half Marathon

  • February: Carnival

  • March: Roman Festival and Tapeando como Romanos

  • March / April: Holy Week processions

  • April: Seville Fair

  • May: Córdoba Fair, Cruces de Mayo

  • June: Nocturnal Run

  • July: Virgen del Carmen procession to the river

  • August: Lágrimas de San Lorenzo, Noche de San Juan

  • September: Écija Fair

  • October: Hispanity Day celebrations, Oktoberfest, Halloween events

These events are part of everyday local life and offer unique opportunities to experience Spanish culture and language in context.

Entry requirements and visas

Before booking your trip, please check the entry requirements for Spain based on your nationality.

  • Citizens of the EU/EEA do not require a visa

  • Visitors from other countries may be allowed short stays without a visa

  • Some travellers may need to apply for a tourist visa in advance

Visa regulations can change, so we strongly recommend checking with official government sources or your local Spanish consulate.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included in our courses, allowing you to choose what best suits your preferences and budget.

Écija offers a range of options:

  • small hotels and guesthouses

  • tourist apartments

  • short-term rentals

Staying in or near the historic centre is ideal, as it allows you to walk everywhere and experience daily life locally. We’re happy to offer general advice once you’ve confirmed your course dates, and we even have agreements with some of the local accommodation providers, allowing you to get the best rates for longer stays.

Daily budget and cost of living

Écija is considerably more affordable than larger cities such as Seville or Córdoba.

As a rough guide:

  • Coffee: €1.50–2.00

  • Menu del día (3-course set menu): €10–14

  • Tapas: €2.50–5.00

  • Groceries: affordable and widely available.  Click here to see an example shopping list with prices.

  • Bus to Seville: €9-12

  • Bus to Córdoba: €6-8
  • Car hire: compare car hire prices and options from the airport on sites like this . There's also a car-hire company here in Écija.
  • Parking: there is usually plenty of free on-street parking in town, especially around the Parque San Pablo area.  There's also an underground car park under the main square for €18.70 for 24 hours.

This makes Écija an excellent choice for longer stays and relaxed immersion without the pressure of high daily costs.

A final note

Live The South is about real immersion, everyday life and learning Spanish naturally. Taking the time to plan your stay carefully will help you feel more confident and comfortable from the moment you arrive.

If you’re unsure about dates, seasons or practical details like the availability of certain activities, feel free to get in touch — we’ll be happy to help you think it through.