Isla Magica

Isla Magica opened in 1997 on part of the Cartuja island site left over from Expo 92, and it uses the sixteenth-century Seville of the American trade as its theme, with zones representing the port of departure, the Caribbean, the Amazon, the Maya world and El Dorado, and rides ranging from a large wooden-framed coaster to water rapids and a drop tower. Shows, street performers and a pirate battle run through the day. Agua Magica, a water park with slides and a wave pool, opened alongside in 2014 and is essential in the Seville summer, when temperatures on the island regularly exceed forty degrees. The park's season runs roughly from spring to early autumn with limited winter opening.

What you actually see

• The themed zones - areas built around the Spanish American voyages.
• The main coasters - including a large wooden-framed ride.
• Agua Magica - a water park with slides and a wave pool.
• The Expo 92 setting - the park built on the old exposition island.

When to go

May, June and September for bearable temperatures with the full programme; July and August are extremely hot and the water park becomes the main draw. The park closes for much of the winter.

Honest expectations

Seville heat in midsummer makes a full day outdoors genuinely difficult, with queues in direct sun. The park is smaller than major European parks and the ride list is limited. Opening dates vary year to year and should be checked.

Nearby

The Cartuja monastery and contemporary art centre are on the same island; central Seville is across the river.