Sevilla, Spain

http://www.andalucia.com/cities/seville/marialuisapark.htm

The Parque Maria Luisa is a large green space to the south of the city centre, close to the river, with hundreds of exotic trees lining shady avenues, and historic, fairytale buildings, with exotic touches provided by colourful tiled benches, and Moorish fountains and pools.

The park was the site of the Expo 1929, which had Plaza de España as its centrepiece. Large enough never to feel crowded, the park is a delightful place for a quiet stroll, a kids' runabout, or romantic horse-and-carriage or boat ride. Taking a horse and carriage is a great way to see the shady avenues of the park; a more energetic option is a bike for four with sunshade - the front seats have belts to strap wriggly young children in safely. You can find them in the road opposite Plaza de España.

Today, Maria Luisa Park is a paradisical half-mile of palms and orange trees, elms and Mediterranean pines, covered with flower beds and dotted with hidden bowers, tiled benches, ponds, fountains and pavilions. Now that the trees and shrubs have reached maturity, the genius of its French designer can be appreciated - this is one of the loveliest parks in Europe.

Plaza España

The Plaza España is situated inside Maria Luisa Park, next to Avenida Isabella La Catolica, a pedestriansed avenue with ice-cream sellers and bike rental stands - this is the best way to reach the park, entering near the Teatro Lope de Vega and Fabrica de Tabaco. You also can reach the park from the Prado de San Sebastián (served by metro, bus and tram) on one side, or the river on the other.