Practical information : Treat yourself (& others) Sevilla
Timetable
Don't wait until Saturday afternoon to do your shopping. As in the rest of Spain, shops are usually closed, except for the very touristy ones. Small shops generally open from 10am to 2pm and from 5pm to 8pm (with a one-hour delay in summer). Department stores are open every day except Sunday, and sometimes until 10pm for holidays and sales.
Budget & Tips
When it comes to clothing, all Spanish brands offer discounts of between 20% and 30% compared with France. What's more, the models on offer often differ from those on offer in France. For flea market enthusiasts, there's the Thursday market on Calle Feria, which is like Seville's Notting Hill. Afterwards, you'll have to bargain.
Sales
In Seville, the summer sales take place in July and August, convenient for the vacations, and in February for the winter sales. Still unknown in 2010, Black Friday has developed, with the same extension movement as elsewhere to Cyber Monday, a week later.
What's very local
Some of Seville's craftsmanship is closely linked to Holy Week and the feria. In Calle Serpies, you'll find plenty of beautiful ruffled dresses for flamenco or Sevillian dancing. When it comes to handicrafts, prefer El Postigo (calle Arfe), with its 100% local, well-sourced products. You'll find fans, shawls, hair jewelry, bags and, above all, ceramics and pottery. With azulejos, the hottest item on the market, used as a decorative object. When it comes to pottery, a visit to Triana, its historic birthplace, is a must. For jugs, jars, cups, dishes and pots. For vegetables, fruit, charcuterie, etc., it's best to head for the well-stocked markets. Often including small tasting points. And don't leave without olive oil, the local treasure.
Tourist traps
Tourist-friendly stores abound around the most visited monuments, such as the cathedral. And they are, of course, the triumph of made in china.