seville pocket travel guide

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Pocket Rough Guide Seville

This compact, pocket-sized Seville travel guidebook is ideal for travellers on shorter trips and those trying to make the most of Seville. It’s light, easily portable and comes equipped with a pull-out map.

This Seville guidebook covers:  Barrio Santa Cruz, Barrio Alfalfa, Arenal and the Río Guadalquivir, El Centro, Sur, Barrio Triana, Barrio Macarena, La Alameda de Hércules, Los Remedios.

Inside this Seville travel book you will find:

Curated recommendations of places  – main attractions, off-the-beaten-track adventures, child-friendly family activities, chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas 

Things not to miss in Seville  – Alcázar, Flamenco, Giralda tower, Catedral, Barrio Santa Cruz, Feria de Abril, Tapas, Triana, Semana Santa, Parque de María Luisa, Museo Arqueológico and Museo de Costumbres Populares, Las Setas, Museo de Bellas Artes, Itálica, Monasterio San Isidoro del Campo 

Ready-made itineraries samples –  created for different time frames or types of trip

Seville at a glance  – an overview map of Seville with key areas and short descriptions of what you’ll find there

Day trips – extra information for those on longer breaks or wanting to venture further afield

Practical travel tips  – information on how to get there and around, health guidance, tourist information, festivals and events, plus an A–Z directory

Handy language section – themed basic vocabulary for greetings, numbers and food and drink

Independent reviews – honest descriptions of places to eat, drink or stay, written by our expert authors

Accommodation – handy reference guide to a range of hotels for different budgets 

Pull-out map  – easy to extract folded map with places to see marked

What’s new – a short overview of the changes in Seville in recent years for repeat travellers

Free download of the eBook – available after purchase of the printed Seville guidebook 

Fully updated post-COVID-19

The guide is a perfect companion both ahead of your trip and on the ground. It gives you a distinct taste of Seville with a concise edit of all the information you’ll need.

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Pocket Rough Guides

Pictorial, compact travel guides series to countries, cities and regions with a pull-out map and factual travel tips perfect for short trips and travellers seeking concise travel information and practical listings.

Concise practical travel information includes getting there, getting around, climate and safety tips, accommodation, food & drink advice and shopping essentials 

Things Not to Miss at the beginning of each guide

Colour-coded places chapters with key coverage of places and sights in points-of-interest structure

Recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Pull-out detailed maps with marked-up key sights or listings

Printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

Free eBook with each purchased printed guide from May 2019

Format: 102 x 190mm

Price: £7.99-£8.99 | $12.99-$13.99

Extent: 128–208 pages

BOOK DETAILS

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The Ultimate Seville Pocket Travel Guide: Explore Like a Local During Your Trip to Seville (Spain)- Discover Insider Tips, Hidden Gems, Experience Food & Party For A Wonderful and Unforgettable Trip Paperback – Large Print, September 28, 2023

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🍷 Sipping in Seville: Discover the world of Spanish wine, sherry, and cocktails, and raise your glass to unforgettable moments in this charming city.

🌆 Nightlife and Entertainment: Dance the night away at trendy nightspots, experience the passion of flamenco, and uncover the best live music venues in Seville.

🌄 Day Trips: Expand your horizons with captivating day trips to Cordoba, Granada, Ronda, and Cadiz. Unforgettable experiences just a stone's throw away from Seville!

🚌 Practical Information: Master the art of getting around, shopping for souvenirs, staying safe and healthy, and communicating with the locals.

📸 Capture Memories: Our photography tips and journaling suggestions will ensure you preserve every moment of your Seville adventure.

🗣️ 100 Spanish Phrases: Communicate effortlessly with the locals and enhance your travel experience.

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• Print length 154 pages
• Language English
• Publication date September 28, 2023
• Dimensions 5.5 x 0.35 x 8.5 inches
• ISBN-13 979-8862798166
• See all details

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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CK3HNQYK
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (September 28, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 154 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8862798166
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.1 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.35 x 8.5 inches
• #91 in Seville Travel Guides
• #161 in Andalusia Travel Guides
• #2,611 in General Spain Travel Guides

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• Cadiz Travel Guide
• Cordoba Province
• Granada Travel Guide
• Jaen Province
• Malaga Travel Guide
• Sevilla Travel Guide
• Andalucian Cuisine

Sevilla Province

The only seville two day itinerary you will ever need.

The Andalusian capital is not only one of the most alluring cities in Spain, but it’s also up there are one of the most picturesque and visually stunning cities in Europe. 

Because of its compact size, and pedestrian-friendly nature, you’ll be able to see the best of Seville in two days. What’s more, because of the city’s location in the south of Spain, it’s a great destination for a short city break with pretty much-guaranteed sunshine throughout the whole year.  Without any further due, let’s see how you can maximise your time in this Seville two day itinerary.

Two Days Seville Itinerary: Must See Places 

Although the city is compact, there are a lot of things to see in Seville . Naturally, it’s going to be impossible to see everything in Seville in two days, so these are the unmissable attractions.

• Real Alcázar
• Cathedral of Seville & La Giralda 
• Barrio Santa Cruz 
• Plaza de España 
• Parco de Maria Luisa
• Flamenco Shows and Tapas 
• The Metropol Parasol (Las Setas) 
• Palacio de las Dueñas 
• Casa de Pilatos 
• Torre del Oro (the Gold Tower) 
• Alameda de Hércules 

About Seville

Seville’s eclectic history plays a huge part as to why the city is so visually stunning today. As with all ancient cities, they come with some fascinating legends as to how they were founded. In Seville’s case, it claims that it was by Hercules. FYI, it wasn’t. 

Both the Greeks and Romans settled in what we know today as Seville , you’ll still find plenty of evidence of these civilisations both within the city and in the surrounding towns. There are ruins located under La Setas in the centre as well as just outside at Italica in Santiponce.  

In 712, the city fell under the reign of the Arabs. Back then the city was called Isbilia , and the river that runs through the city was called Guad el Kevir . Over time, the names evolved to Seville and the Guadalquivir River. 

The Arabs ruled the city for 500 years, so naturally left their mark with structures that still stand to this day. The most notable one is the Giralda, which is the name of the tower next to Seville Cathedral, and the city walls, the most intact section is called Muralla de la Macarena (the city walls at the Macarena) located to the north of the city. 

Then in 1248, the Muslims were defeated in conquest and the city fell under the reign of the Christians. The city prospered in the late 1400s and became the location for the Chamber of Commerce. This is partly due to both Christopher Columbus, and his voyage to the Americas, and the cities strategic location next to the river. This meant that Seville became Spain’s wealthiest and developed city in Spain, and stayed that way up to the 1700s. 

Both plague and the silting up of the river played their part in the demise of the city. The Chamber of Commerce then moved to Cadiz . In 1929, an event called the Ibero-American Exposition prompted the regeneration of the city, along with the building of the iconic Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park.

Seville in 2 Days – Your Complete Seville Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1 highlights, day 1 – morning.

Start the morning at the magnificent Real Alcazar located in the heart of the historical city. Originally, this was built as a fort by the Muslims, then when the Christians conquered the city, it became the residence of the Spanish Kings. 

Today, it’s a sprawling landmark, where each subsequent King added their mark to the complex. In 1987, the Real Alcazar became a UNESCO listed heritage site and is one of Seville’s must-see attractions. 

To say the building is ornate is an understatement. Column adorned, grand, high ceilinged rooms, with intricate latticework stretching between them. This is called the Mudéjar style, which pulls influences from both Moorish and Christian design. If you’ve visited, or are planning on visiting the Alhambra in Granada , you’ll find plenty of parallels between them. 

Although the entire palace is stunning, some of the most notable rooms are the Courtyard of the Maidens, Mudéjar Palacio de Don Pedro , Salon de Los Tapices and Salon de Embajadores.

The Real Alcazar does get busy, so it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance to skip the queue. Although you can walk around by yourself, the information plaques are minimal, so for more information, either book the audio guide, join a tour or hire a private guide .

To enjoy the Real Alcazar fully, I recommend allowing 2+ hours here. 

After exploring the Real Alcazar, continue your Seville two day itinerary by heading towards the gargantuan Cathedral of Seville and its neighbouring La Giralda . Like with the Real Alcazar, these both have UNESCO Heritage status. 

Seville Cathedral has two claims to fame, one is that it’s the biggest cathedral in the world, by volume and secondly, that it’s the resting place of Christopher Columbus. You can see his tomb inside. 

During the Islamic rule, a Mosque stood here. When the Christians conquered the city they initially used the Mosque as a church. It was then demolished and rebuilt as a Gothic Style Roman Catholic Church. The completion of the cathedral was in 1506. However, the Giralda and the Orange Courtyard both date back to the Moorish times 

You can climb the 350-foot high Giralda. You might expect steps leading up, but instead, you’ll find it’s a continuous ramp, winding round and upwards for 35 floors. But why a ramp? The Giralda was the minaret from the old mosque that once stood here. The ramps were used by horses who would carry the Muezzin to the top of the tower to call prayer.

The view from the top is stunning. You’ll be able to see a 360 view of the city below. The viewing platform is also the same level as the bells, it does get noisy if you coincide your visit with when they chime. 

Again, like with the Real Alcazar, Seville Cathedral does get busy. Book your ticket in advance to skip the queues. To do it justice, you’ll probably want a couple of hours here.

After visiting the Cathedral, spend the remainder of the morning exploring the area called Barrio Santa Cruz . This is also a great place to stop for some lunch in one of the quaint tapas bars (in Spain, lunchtime is generally much later than the rest of Europe, typically at 2 or 3 pm).

This area is known as the Jewish District of the city. After the Christan Conquest, the leader Ferdinand III banished the Jews to this area of the city. 

Barrio Santa Cruz is a myriad of narrow maze-like, cobblestone streets and alleys, opening out into small tree-clad courtyards with fountains and benches. It’s easy to get lost in this district, and that is exactly what you should do! History oozes from this area, and although you could enjoy wandering about by yourself, stopping off at the tapas bars and quaint artisan shops, you can delve into the history more by booking onto a guided tour of Barrio Santa Cruz. 

Day 1 – Afternoon

From Barrio Santa Cruz, head towards Plaza de Espana . If you type Seville into any image search, I guarantee this will rank somewhere near the top of your findings.

The monument was built in 1929 as part of the Ibero-American Exposition in the style of Renaissance and Moorish architecture. 

The red-bricked semi-circular plaza is lined with columns, bridges and balconies. Along the inner edge of the building, you find colourful tiled benches and images which represent every province of Spain. In the centre is a large fountain, and on a hot afternoon, you can catch the cooling spray from it, if you stand in the right place. 

From Plaza de Espana, head towards the adjacent Parco de Maria Luisa.  This large city park covers about 100acres. Make sure to allow plenty of time to discover the gazebos, fountains, tropical trees, and even museums which are all dispersed here.  

Maria Luisa Park is also a great place to head to escape the sun, with plenty of shaded benches. If you sit long enough, you’ll probably hear the squawking sound of the resident green parakeets which nest in the trees here. 

Both Plaza de Espana and Parque Maria Luisa are free to enter , allowing about 1-2 hours to fully enjoy them. If you have the time, from Maria Luisa Park, head down towards the river and enjoy a stroll along the promenade.

Day 1 – Evening

It’s time to delve into the cultural side of Seville. The city is proud of its heritage and even today, still hold deep roots in folklore. Two traditions unarguably Seviliano are the Flamenco guitar and the Flamenco dance. 

Flamenco performances are often intimate affairs, in a small venue allowing you to see and feel the emotion that the performers give. The fast rhythms are played out on a traditional guitar, often accompanied by percussion and clapping. 

The dancers, especially the female dancers, dress in bright and beautifully coloured layered dresses. They are flamboyant and powerful in their movements, creating rhythms with their feet and intricate shapes with their hands and bodies to complement the music. 

You can’t help but feel the emotion as you’re drawn into their storytelling through song and dance. Flamenco shows are popular, so book tickets in advance .

After watching the Flamenco show, head back towards Barrio Santa Cruz to enjoy a traditional evening meal (evening meals, like with lunchtime, are generally later than the rest of Europe, typically 10 pm onwards). 

Day 2 Highlights

• Torre del Oro

Day 2 – Morning

The second day of your Seville in two days itinerary starts at La Encarnación square and the Metropol Parasol . The enormous wooden structure is affectionately known as Las Setas (The Mushrooms) and was designed by German architect, Jürgen Mayer, it was built in 2011. It’s also the largest wooden structure in the world. 

The landmark is a bit of a love-hate affair, historically this area was a city market, and then a car park, the area surrounding the square wasn’t the most desirable area and overall needed regeneration. Today, it’s a hub of activity. Under Metropol Parasol, you’ll find a market, bars and restaurants. There is also a museum that houses Roman ruins which were discovered during the building of the Metropol Parasol.   

On the upper level of Las Setas is a snake-like walkway, that meanders and undulates to view the city from above. There is no shelter at the top, so it’s advisable to visit either early in the day or late at night to avoid the harsh heat from the sun. In this itinerary, I recommend visiting early in the morning you could, however, push this activity to later in the day. 

Allow about an hour at Las Setas. Book tickets in advance to skip the ques.

From the Metropol Parasol, head towards Calle Dueñas, which is where you will find the stunning Palacio de las Dueñas .

In terms of buildings that are just ‘wow’ for the senses, the Palacio de las Dueñas comes in at a close second to the Real Alcazar. The palace is stunning and often gets overlooked.

The palace was built between the 15-16th century and features a mix of Mudéjar and Gothic architectural styles. The reason this is so wow on the senses is that every surface is filled with some sort of detail. 

The palace features courtyards, inner rooms (which still contain original family heirlooms) and beautifully manicured gardens. You can wander about by yourself, but to get a better insight into the affluent families that lived here, then it’s certainly worth hiring a guide. 

Book your ticket in advance to skip the line and allow a couple of hours here to see everything. 

From Palacio de las Dueñas take the 15-minute walk to another one of Seville’s stunning historical buildings, the Casa de Pilatos found on Plaza de Pilatos.

In visual terms, it’s a mixture of the Mudèjar style you saw at Palacio de las Dueñas twinned with the colourful azulejo tiles you saw at Plaza de Espana.

As you enter, you’ll start in a light coloured marble courtyard with a fountain in the middle, adorned with vivid geometric tiles, sculptures and statues. Similarly to the Palacio de las Dueñas, you could spend hours exploring and looking at every nook and cranny. There are elaborate murals and intricate latticework everywhere. 

To skip the queue, book your ticket in advance . Allow at least an hour, longer if you have the time, to see everything. 

From Casa de Pilatos head to the main square in Alfalfa and stop for lunch. This Old Town district is known for vintage tapas and wine bars (it’s worth checking out Bar Alfalfa IF you can get a table!), intertwined with hipster hangouts. 

Day 2 – Afternoon

From Alfalfa, take the 20-minute walk to the Torre del Oro or Gold Tower. This tower dates back to the 13th century and originally was one of a pair of watchtowers that guarded the entrance of the city.  

Today the tower houses a museum. The first floor is dedicated to the tower, and its importance to the city’s defences, the second floor is a nautical museum. The top-level is open to give views overlooking the city, and the Guadalquivir river. You’ll also be able to look across the river and see Triana, which is where you’ll be headed next. 

From the top of the Gold Tower, you’ll also be able to see the Cathedral and gain some perspective as to just how big it is and how it dominates the skyline of the Old Town. Spend about an hour at the Torre del Oro before heading to the next destination on this 2 days in Seville guide. 

From the tower, cross the nearest bridge and then turn right as you start to head into the pretty neighbourhood of Triana . Compared to the bustle of Seville centre, Triana has a much more residential and laid back vibe to it. 

By now, you will have noticed how important the colourful tiles are in Seville’s building style, well Triana is where they originated. If you have time, head into the Centro Ceramica to find out more about the history of the area and tiles. 

Two other places worthy of a visit here are Mercado de Traina , where you will find fresh produce and cute little eateries and the Castillo de San Jorge, which was rediscovered when the Mercado was being built. The San Jorge Castle sits under the market and contains the foundations of a castle that once stood here. It’s well informed, with lots of boards in English about the history of the area and the Spanish Inquisition .

You can easily spend a couple of hours in the neighbourhood of Triana. 

Day 2 – Evening

To finish your two days in Seville, cross back over the river, using the Puente de Isabel II . And meander your way up to Alameda de Hércules, often just referred to as Alameda.  

This open plaza is the best place to go to experience Seville’s vibrant bars. During the day, it’s a relaxed affair here with locals and tourists sitting out in the sun, enjoying a Cerveza (beer) with friends and family. 

By night, the focus is more on food, you’ll find every international style of cuisine as well as traditional Sevillan food here along with trendy bars and clubs. 

Do a circuit of the whole plaza (it’s big!) to see where your mood takes you. No time for that? then two suggestions are Duo Tapas and Gigante Bar.

Duo Tapas is situated in an old church with hanging branches and lights twinkling above. Gigante Bar has a retro and vintage feel to it. 

Final Thoughts on Seville in 2 Days

I hope you agree that Seville is a great destination for a short city break. Although you could spend much longer in the city, this Seville two day itinerary covers the must-see attractions.

If you have any questions about visiting Seville, then comment below and we’ll try our best to answer them. 

For more articles about Seville, check out the suggestions below:

• How to spend Easter in Sevilla
• How to spend Christmas in Sevilla
• What to do in Sevilla in winter

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I am Joanna, the writer of this blog. I have been calling Andalucia home for the past few years, time in which I have explored extensively this beautiful land. This blog’s aim is to help you discover everything that Andalucia has to offer, from beautiful beaches to stunning mountains, from hidden white villages to off the beaten path experiences, from culinary adventures to fantastic road trips.

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Seville Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

Originally founded as a Roman city, Seville came to prominence after the Islamic conquest in 711. Today, the city is known for its flamenco dancing (which originated in Andalucía), its beautiful architecture that blends Islamic and European styles, and its scorching summers.

Seville is a big university town and is extremely popular with people studying abroad, making it a more affordable destination than cities like Barcelona or Madrid (it’s not as crowded either).

This Seville travel guide will give you everything you need to know to eat well, save money, and see the best sights Seville has to offer!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Seville

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Seville

1. Tour Casa de Pilatos

Built in the 16th century, this beautiful Andalusian palace is a mix of Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudejar styles. It houses a collection of 16th and 19th-century paintings, as well as a sculpture garden of Greek mythological figures. It’s also the permanent residence of the Dukes of Medinaceli (a hereditary title in Spain) and boasts the world’s largest collection of azulejo (a traditional glazed tile artwork). Numerous films have also been shot here, including Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven , and Knight and Day to name a few. Admission is 12 EUR.

2. Explore Parque de Maria Luisa

Located just in front of the iconic Plaza de España, this 100-acre public park offers the opportunity to browse gardens, patios, and sculptures. The park is Seville’s main greenspace and is situated near the Guadalquivir River. Created in 1911, it’s a relaxing place to lounge, picnic, and people watch. Don’t miss the monument to Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote Don Quixote (the monument used to include statues of Don Quixote on his horse and Sancho Panza on his donkey but they have since disappeared).

3. Visit the Royal Alcázar

The Royal Alcázar of Seville (also known as al-Qasr al-Muriq) is the oldest residential palace in Europe still in use today. Dating to the 14th century, it’s an important example of Moorish architecture. There are giant galleries, ornate rooms, and beautiful gardens. The palace was built for the Christian king Peter of Castile atop a Muslim fort after Christian armies reconquered the city in 1248. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. General admission is 14.50 EUR. Free admission is available on Monday afternoons/evenings. Check the website for specific times.

4. Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter

Seville’s Jewish Quarter is filled with small winding streets and is generally regarded as the most charming part of the city. The area gets pretty crowded but there are numerous small alleys and streets to explore where you can escape the crowds. Don’t miss this part of town.

5. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Seville’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Seville has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, this tour is for you! Tours start at 89 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Seville

1. visit the catedral of sevilla.

This Roman Catholic cathedral dominates much of Seville’s skyline. Surrounded by Andalusian orange trees, the Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Sea) is one of Seville’s top tourist attractions. Lines can get long, partially because hours are limited around church services, so get there early. While you can just admire the stunning design and stained glass from outside, the Cathedral is where Christopher Columbus is buried, so it’s worth going inside. The bell tower also offers a panoramic view of the city. Admission is 11 EUR if you purchase online and 12 EUR in person. The audio guide costs 5 EUR (4 EUR if you use the app).

2. Check out Plaza de España

One of Seville’s most picturesque spots, Plaza de España was built at the northern edge of the Parque de María Luísa in the 1920s for the Ibero-American Exposition. The unique building mixes Baroque, Renaissance, and Moorish architectural styles, and there’s a small canal with Venetian-like bridges and gondolas. The Plaza has gotten a lot of attention in the past few years because it has served as a backdrop in film and TV, such as Star Wars and Game of Thrones . The murals along the sweeping arc of the building depict the various regions and municipalities of Spain. It also has benches that depict the 49 provinces of Spain in ceramic tiles. Admission is free.

3. Visit the Iglesia de San Isidoro

While this church is less popular than the Catedral de Sevilla, the Iglesia de San Isidoro is considered one of Seville’s most impressive churches. The 14th-century church was built on top of a former Arabic fortification and its fusion of Gothic and Mudejar styles is a common example of unique architecture in Andalucía. The intricate design makes this worth a visit. Admission is free but be sure to dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

4. Enjoy some contemporary art

The Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo (CAAC) is a contemporary art museum located just across the river from the city center. Housed in a former Franciscan monastery that dates to the 15th century (and was later a ceramic tile factory), today the museum hosts a collection of Andalusian artists. There are rotating exhibitions so check the website to see what’s on during your visit. Admission is 3.01 EUR, though there is free entry Tuesday-Friday from 7pm-9pm and on Saturdays from 11am-9pm

5. Learn about Spain’s colonial history

The General Archives of the Indies is a 16th-century building and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the Spanish Renaissance style, it contains a large collection of documents and artifacts related to Spain’s colonization of the New World. Highlights include the personal diary of Columbus and the Treaty of Tordesillas, which divided the New World between Spain and Portugal. Admission is free.

6. Visit the Flamenco Museum

Flamenco music and dance is an important cultural element of southern Spanish culture, and the Flamenco Museum in Seville is a great way to learn more about this unique style of performance. The museum features many intricately designed flamenco dresses and illuminates the history behind the dance’s origins. Admission to the museum is 10 EUR while live flamenco shows in the museum’s theater are 25 EUR.

7. Admire fine art

The Museo de Bellas Artes is a fine arts museum with works from the Middle Ages through to the 20th century. The museum lies in the Macarena neighborhood in a building that dates to 1594. Two floors in the building are full of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and crafts — many by artists from Seville or Andalucía. Admission is 1.50 EUR and free if you’re an EU citizen.

8. Take a Spanish class

Seville is a popular study abroad location for international students and there are a number of language schools catering to students from around the world. You can take Spanish courses for just a single week or longer. Many students choose Seville to study because of the big student population of the city, the affordability of the city, and the unique Andalusian culture. The CLIC language school offers a variety of courses for any number of weeks or months, plus affordable housing for those that want to stay with other students or in a homestay. A one-week intensive Spanish language course at CLIC costs as little as 205 EUR, though discounts are available depending upon a package or multi-week course.

9. Take in the view from the top of a mushroom

This large sculptural platform in the Plaza de la Encarnación used to be a car park but, in 2011, it was transformed into a massive public art project called Las Setas De Sevilla, or the Metropol Parasol. Resembling mushrooms (or more like a beehive in my opinion), the structure provides shade to the plaza below and there are two 85-foot panoramic platforms where you can take in the view. Admission to the platform is 10 EUR.

10. Hang out in Alameda

The best nightlife spot in Seville is in and around the Alameda de Hercules. The large, open-air plaza attracts many students and creative artist types who relax here drinking, playing music, and enjoying any of the tapas bars and outdoor seating that line the mall. Many of the restaurants and bars in the area offer live music and great deals on food & drinks too.

11. Relax on the Guadalquivir River

The first trip around the world originated in Seville when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan sailed out along the Guadalquivir River in 1519. The river was the main maritime route for Atlantic traffic for over 200 years, making Seville the mercantile center of the western world in the 16th century. These days you can enjoy rowing and canoeing on the river or just simply relax by the shore and take in the scene.

12. Take a bike tour

  For more information on other cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Valencia Travel Guide

Seville Travel Costs

There are a few campgrounds outside the city, some offering private cabins with swimming pools for 40 EUR. For those with a tent, a basic plot for one person costs 5 EUR.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost 40-60 EUR per night, though prices are slightly higher (around 50-100 EUR per night) in peak tourist season and around Easter. Continental breakfast is usually included, as are basic amenities like TV and Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available here as well, with private rooms starting at 30 EUR per night (but averaging double that). An entire apartment goes for at least 70 EUR per night though prices double if you don’t book early. Many include air-conditioning — useful to have for the hot summer season.

Food – Spain has a strong food culture, where meals can last hours and dinner often isn’t served until after 8pm. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, and Andalucía is no exception. Owing to its location on the coast, seafood is huge in this region, including shellfish and pescaito frito (fried fish). Gazpacho is also super common here, as is Iberian ham. Don’t miss trying some of the local sherry too (William Shakespeare apparently loved it).

You can eat very cheap in Seville. Tapas bars offer great deals and a number of takeaway stands with falafel, shawarma, or other late-night snacks can be found for under 10 EUR. Most tapas bars offer small plates for anywhere from 5-10 EUR depending upon the type of dish.

If you want to splurge, there are many nicer tapas restaurants with more elaborate meals and innovative takes on typical Andalusian-style foods. Mid-range tapas restaurants serve small plates between 7-15 EUR and, again, two or three plates is usually enough food for one person.

For a mid-range meal including an appetizer and drink, expect to pay at least 20 EUR. For cheap fast food (think McDonald’s), a combo meal costs around 8 EUR.

Beer costs as little as 2-3 EUR. A glass of sangria or wine costs 5 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is around 1.50 EUR while bottled water is under 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, expect to spend about 40-45 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Seville Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Seville, expect to spend around 50 EUR per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation, and doing mostly free activities like relaxing in the park and seeing some of the churches. Add 10-15 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of about 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at cheap restaurants for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like and museum visits or Spanish classes.

On a “luxury” budget of 250 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, take more taxis, and do as many guided tours as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Seville Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Food, drinks, and tours can add up in Seville if you aren’t watching your spending. This is one of the more expensive cities in Spain. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of free things to do here. Here’s how to save money in Seville:

• Get the Tarjeta TurÍstica pass – If you plan on using the bus or tram often, get this pass. A one-day pass costs 5 EUR and provides unlimited access to all public transport. A three-day pass costs 10 EUR.
• Visit the Royal Alcázar on Monday – The Royal Alcázar has free admission on Mondays, so plan accordingly to save money. Specific times vary by season so check the website for an up-to-date schedule.
• Buy your own alcohol – While drinks are hardly expensive at bars and restaurants in Seville (and in Spain as a whole), you can save yourself a lot of money if you buy your own beer and wine. Many locals buy their own bottles and drink in public at the Alameda de Hercules in the evenings, taking advantage of the street performers, buskers, and musicians that crowd the plaza on weekends.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from a local. While hostels aren’t too expensive in the city, this is still the best way to save money and deepen your travel experience.
• Go on a free walking tour – Like most of Spain, there are many opportunities to take advantage of free walking tours. Seville has a number and many depart from Plaza del Salvador. You just need to tip your guide. My favorite is New Europe. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Visit the markets for groceries & cheap tapas – The Triana Market is one of the main food markets in Seville and has many fruit and vegetable vendors. There are food markets in each of the major Seville neighborhoods, and sometimes the smaller ones outside the main tourist trails even have small, local restaurants with great food deals. The Mercado de Feria is a favorite. Buying snacks, small meals, and groceries at the local neighborhood markets can cut down on your food budget.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Seville

Seville has a ton of hostel choices for any budget. My recommended places to stay are the following:

• Triana Hostel
• Black Swan Hostel
• Oasis Backpakcers Palace
• Sevilla Kitsch Hostel Art
• Onefam Catedral

How to Get Around Seville

Public transportation – There is an extensive bus network that operates in Seville and can help you get from one edge of the city to another. Tickets can be bought on board and cost 1.40 EUR per trip. A one-day travel card, the Tarjeta TurÍstica, costs 5 EUR (10 EUR for a 3-day card).

Seville’s tram system connects to some of the further out areas of the city (and it’s air-conditioned). The tram is part of the same public bus system so tickets are the same price.

Bicycle Rental – Bike rentals are a great way to save money while seeing the sights from a new perspective. Rentals in Seville cost around 15 EUR per day.

Taxis – Taxis start at 2.50 EUR, with normal tariff being 1 EUR per additional kilometer. Skip them if you can as the prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Seville but it won’t save you a ton so skip it and stick to the bus.

When to Go to Seville

Like most of southern Spain in Andalucía, Seville gets a lot of sunshine and has hot summers. I think the best time to visit is between March and May when crowds haven’t peaked but the weather is still warm and sunny.

The Easter season is especially popular in Seville because of the famous Feria (a large fair), which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists and religious pilgrims. Part of the Semana Santa holy week, it’s a beautiful time to visit because of the colorful dresses and the many street activities and parades, but it does get crowded and expensive during the holy week.

In the summer (June-August), the weather is hot and sunny, with daily highs reaching upwards of 38°C (100°F). While the city is lively during the summer, it can be very taxing to explore in the heat.

The winter months (December-February) offer more comfortable temperatures, usually around 7-18°C (45-65°F). The city is much quieter, making it a nice time to visit if you want to beat the crowds and don’t mind some chilly days.

How to Stay Safe in Seville

Like most Spanish cities, Seville has a problem with pickpocketing and petty theft. The area around the Alameda de Hercules, a popular nightlife spot, was once very seedy and rife with crime and drug use, but that’s been cleaned up a lot in the past decade. Still, watch your bags when going out at night and avoid dark, empty streets if alone. Always keep an eye on your possessions when on public transportation as well.

If you go out at night, only bring the money you need and leave the rest locked up in your accommodation.

Tourist scams are prevalent as well so keep an eye out for groups of kids trying to distract you, as they’re probably trying to take your money. Additionally, be wary of people offering to carry your luggage. They may try to charge you a large fee.

When dining, keep your bags and belongings close and secure (especially when outside). Don’t leave your things on the table when going up to order. They can disappear quickly.

Read more about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct and make extra copies of your important documents.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Seville Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Seville Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Madrid

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate Guide To Seville, Spain

Seville, located in the Andalusia region of Spain, is a charming city with incredible architecture, a rich history and a great food scene. There’s a host of wonderful things to do in Seville that are perfect for a long weekend city break.

In this post, I’ll share all the secrets and only the very best things to do for your next Seville trip including where to eat, drink and stay. I’ve travelled to this region of Spain several times and with the addition of a few up-market restaurants and hotels, not much has changed in 2024!

Find the hidden gems and epic roof terraces in my Ultimate Guide To Seville!

Why visit Seville?

With its jasmine-scented air, orange trees and magnificent monuments, Seville attracts visitors from all over the world and for good reason. For most of the year, you can sit in a sun-filled cobbled stoned square (even in January), enjoy traditional tapas, catch a flamenco show in the evening and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, there’s a lot to see and do in Seville!

It’s one of the most appealing cities in Spain and probably one of the most affordable too when compared to other European cities. Seville also makes a great base for exploring other parts of Andalusia – in my opinion, the most attractive region in Spain – check out the best 7-day tours from Seville here .

Here’s what not to miss in Seville!

THINGS TO SEE & DO IN SEVILLE

Seville cathedral.

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and you’ll find it in the heart of the old town, its grandness is very hard to miss. Inside is just as spectacular, there are 80 chapels and many historical relics to explore. One of those is Christopher Columbus’s final resting place and you must also stop by the domed Chapter House to admire the paintings of Murillo, there is a great deal of history under one highly detailed Gothic roof!

GIRALDA TOWER

Don’t miss the Giralda Bell Tower climb (35 stairs, if you wondered) for epic panorama views over the city of Seville, it is well worth the effort. You can also book these queue jump tickets ahead of time, which will take you straight into the cathedral and includes the bell tower admission – it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Seville.

When to visit the Seville Cathedral?

A great time to visit the Cathedral is in the late afternoon – around 4pm, at this time there are fewer crowds and much better lighting.

REAL ALCAZAR PALACE

While the Cathedral might be the most striking landmark in Seville The Real Alcazar Palace is the most famous and wandering around it is one of the best things to do in Seville – despite the crowds it draws.

Discover intricate gold ceilings, gorgeous courtyards with colourful tiles, tall palm trees, fountains and exotic gardens as you walk from one attractive courtyard to the next. The restaurant’s terrace might be my favourite part of the whole experience, here you can take a coffee break with peacocks roaming the patio, so very dream-like.

Similarly to the Alhambra in Granada , the Real Alcazar is opulent, and decorative and shows many influences of Moorish Spain. Also, just like the Alhambra it draws a huge crowd and lines of people queuing to get in, to avoid a wait in the glaring sun, book your skip-the-line ticket here .

HISTORICAL GUIDED TOUR

If you’re looking for a historical guided tour of all three of the above main attractions; Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and Alcazar then I recommend this highly rated small group tour , you’ll get a private entrance and a local guide to show you where all the hidden treasures are in half the time! All three sights are just a short walk from each other, but there can be annoyingly long queues at each, if you don’t want to waste time, this is your best option.

Book: Seville: Cathedral, Giralda & Royal Alcazar Guided Tour

PLAZA DE ESPANA

Plaza de Espana next to Maria Luisa Park is another spectacular sight you cannot miss when visiting Seville. Created around a grande semi-circle with striking coral bricks and blue and yellow tiles, it’s a feast for the eyes

Along the perimeter of the Plaza, you will find an emerald-green canal with fountains and bridges, there’s even paddle boats for hire if you wish to float your way around for a bit of fun. Most people just hang out here, take pictures, relax and have a breather from the bustling old town, sometimes there’s an impromptu (mini) flamenco show for entertainment as well – more on that below!

TIP! Arrive in time for sunset and take a walk through the lovely Maria Luisa Park on the way, at this time the sunlight will be beautiful, read this post for more sunset tips!

THE REAL MAESTRANZA

Seville’s bullring is a historic landmark dating back to 1762, it’s one of the oldest (and largest) in Spain and is just a short walk from Plaza de Espana. Bullfighting has a long-standing tradition in Spain and many of the cities have their own bullring, however, these days most are used for festivals or to showcase via a walking tour.

The Real Maestranza in Seville is I must admit pretty impressive, it is housed within a beautiful baroque building and the red and yellow colours are quite striking. If you’re looking to learn more about the culture and visit the museum, hop on a short guided tour – it’s run frequently throughout the day.

BARRIO SANTA CRUZ

Barrio Santa Cruz, also known as the medieval Jewish Quarter is the real heart of Seville and the most desirable area to walk around. A typical Spanish old town with a maze of winding cobbled streets and picturesque squares to lose yourself in.

The best thing to do is wander, find local tapas bars and enjoy a nice café latte in one of the pretty orange-filled courtyards, framed by the typical white and yellow houses of this region. Check out Plaza Alfaro and Plaza Dona Elvira, they are two of the best.

Historical sights in Barrio Santa Cruz:

• Rosina’s Balcony
• Casa de Murillo
• Palacio Duenas
• Casa de Pilatos

TAPAS FOOD CRAWL

Tapas hopping is the primary social event in Seville’s oldest quarter – Barrio Santa Cruz. There’s an overwhelming amount of beautiful restaurants, hole-in-the-wall places and traditional local haunts to take your pick from – and with such a variety, it’s hard to know where to start!

If you want to order more than a ham croquette staple and have a bit of fun doing so, then why not kick start your culinary adventures with a local guided tour with a few like-minded people? This highly rated small group tour will take you to three different neighbourhoods and markets in Seville.

Book: Seville: Tapas Crawl Tour

TRIANA NEIGHBOURHOOD

Exploring the local neighbourhood of Triana is one of the best things to do in Seville. Situated across the Guadalquivir, Triana is full of flavour and you’ll find some of the best local arts, crafts and ceramic stalls as well as authentic flamenco .

After exploring the streets you could go for an traditional bite to eat at Triana Market or check out the trendy Hotel Zenit rooftop terrace for a drink, it’s probably the most sleek in the whole of Seville!

SEVILLE FLAMENCO

One of the best experiences in Seville is spending an evening watching the live performances of enchanting musicians and flamenco dancers, it’s a must-do! Not all shows are the same, but one of the best options is a show at Casa de la Memoria – a very special little theatre dating back to the 15th century.

A good alternative is Los Gallos Tablao in the central historical district of Barrio Santa Cruz, watch the talented performers in an intimate venue and wonderful location. If you’re visiting in summer, the later shows are best.

LA TERRAZA ROOF TERRACE

What not to miss in Seville – the secret rooftop terraces! After a day of exploring enjoy a cool drink at one of Seville’s best rooftop bars with a special view. Stylish La Terraza at the top of EME Hotel has the perfect outlook over the Cathedral, a long bar with tall stools and a fab cocktail menu.

La Terraza is one of the best places to go to for sunset, head there early as it’s very popular- and the atmosphere is wonderful!

Love rooftop terraces? You can also check out the Pura Vida roof terrace at Los Seises Sevillia – this boutique hotel also is a popular sunset spot with a Seville Cathedral view.

TIME FOR A DAY TRIP?

Seville is well placed to visit some spectacular gems in Andalusia , from the local vineyards to the famous Pueblo Blancos (white villages). With gorgeous landscapes and white-washed photogenic houses set amongst rolling green hills, they are a must-visit.

There are dozens of these white villages across the Sevillian countryside, but a few of them are really outstanding namely Ronda and Arcos de la Frontera. If you have one spare day, book this small group tour to see the best of this area!

Book: Seville: White Villages & Ronda Small Group Full Day Tour

WHERE TO EAT IN SEVILLE

The food in Seville is delicious and inexpensive – even the fancy restaurants and it’s worth knowing where they are in advance to avoid the usual mediocre tourist fare. Some are well-known restaurants while others are hidden local gems or simply too beautiful not to be missed!

El Pinton is a beautiful restaurant, dine on the attractive terrace after a visit to the nearby Seville Cathedral for the perfect afternoon treat. It’s not all about looks though, the food is also presented well and delicious – I visited twice!

El Rinconcillo

El Rinconcillo is well known in Seville, dating back to 1670 it’s also the oldest and for that alone deserves a visit – if you can get in! It’s busy as a tourist hotspot these days, but you don’t have to wait for a table, you can stand at the bar with a drink and tapas.

La Chunga is a great option if you fancy a break from the old town, choose from a variety of tapas with a modern twist. I can recommend ordering around 4 or 5 dishes, especially the risotto, it was fresh and tasty.

Torres Y Garcia

Torres Y Garcia is another of my favourite finds in Seville, a hip restaurant serving delicious food and ambience. Make sure you arrive early, this restaurant is one of the busiest in town – grab a local wine at the bar while you wait for a table.

On Ovejas Negras

On Ovejas Negras is another well-located restaurant just a few steps from Seville Cathedral that serves modern tapas with a great atmosphere. The restaurant is quite trendy for the area and finishes late into the night.

Filo is one of the best coffee shops in Seville with two locations to choose from, both equally good. Head here if you are nearby, they also serve good sandwiches and smoothies and the surrounds are dreamy boho.

Best restaurant in Seville

El Pinton is the best restaurant in Seville, it has the aesthetics and tasty food to match – and the location couldn’t be more ideal. Just a stone’s throw from the Cathedral – seek El Pinton after your visit you won’t be disappointed!

WHERE TO STAY IN SEVILLE

Seville is a very walkable city and to be in the best possible location I recommend staying nearby the beautiful old town just moments from all the sights and sounds. Barrio Santa Cruz, Triana and El Arenal are both excellent neighbourhoods in Seville offering attractions on the doorstep and fantastic accommodations.

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN SEVILLE

When it comes to accommodation in Seville, you’ll find small boutique hotels with original character and charm and many apartments, some even have rooftop pools. Whether you’re looking for luxury or space, here’s where to stay in Seville!

Boutique Hotels

• Los Seises Sevilla check prices
• Hotel Amadeus check prices
• EME Hotel check prices
• Hotel Zenit check prices
• Mylu Suites check prices
• Well Done Apartments check prices
• Suites Maestranza Santas Patronas check prices

SEVILLE TIPS

Seville is a popular European city to visit, I highly recommend booking your tickets online and in advance to avoid waiting in long lines, particularly the Real Alcázar, where the queues can be enormous!

Book at least a week in advance for the best flamenco show and the guided skip-the-queue tour of Seville’s top three attractions; Alcázar, Cathedral and Giralda – note this tour fills up fast, book it as soon as you can it’s one of the best things to do in Seville!

BOOK ACTIVITIES

How to get to seville.

Seville is a very accessible destination with good flight and train connections from other European cities and local trains to other places in Andalusia.

The nearest Airport to Seville is Sevilla International Airport (SVQ). Seville is fortunate to have an airport and it’s just a 20-minute taxi ride from the centre of town. There’s also an airport bus that runs approximately every 25 minutes to the station nearby Santa Cruz the journey time is around 35 minutes.

Costs: Taxi €25-30, Bus €4

The train is the best way to get to Seville if you’re already in Spain. Seville’s Santa Justa train station is well connected with high-speed trains to other major Spanish cities, including, Cordoba (50 minutes) and Malaga (2 hours). It is recommended to book in advance and check times before departure. Check rail travel here .

Seville has two centrally located bus stations, Plaza de Armas and Prado de San Sebastian. If travelling by bus around Andalusia you are in for countryside views and long and windy roads and the buses are relly coaches, you can look at the time table and reserve your seat here .

GETTING AROUND SEVILLE

Seville Old Town is very walkable, you can walk around pretty much everything in this guide in less than 40 minutes! Triana is just across the bridge and if you’re heading to the city centre it will be an extra 20 minutes to Macarena.

If you’re planning on exploring more of the region and the attractive towns near Seville; Cordoba or Carmona and the interesting smaller villages ‘Pueblos Blancos’ hiring a car will be a more convenient and flexible way to do it. Consider using Discover Cars , they provide a comparison of car rental prices from various vendors across Seville ensuring you find a great rate – it’s an effective way to secure a rental without the hassle!

SEVILLE FAQ

When to visit seville.

Seville has good weather all year around with mild winters and hot summers, where temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees! March to May is the best time to visit Seville when the gardens are lush and green and the evenings are light. In these months there are also fewer crowds and better hotel prices – Seville is one of the best winter-sun destinations closer to home.

Is Seville warm in January?

Is Seville warm in January – yes! January in Seville is actually mild (16-18 Celsius) compared to other regions in Europe. Seville is always an attractive destination and the activities and accommodation can be enjoyed with appealingly low rates from January to March.

How many days in Seville?

A long weekend in Seville is perfect if you only plan on visiting the highlights, if you have 2 full days this is possible, but I recommend at least 3 nights to do it justice. In 3 nights you can absorb the vibrant culture better, wander around more and factor in a holiday-enhancing activity in Seville or nearby.

Is Seville expensive?

Seville is one of the more affordable cities in Europe, especially when compared to Paris or London. In Seville it’s possible to find quality budget-friendly options for accommodation, dining and entertainment, remarkably a glass of wine in a pretty orange tree-filled square is as little as €3 – and a tapas from €1.50.

Is Seville a good European city break?

Seville stands out as one of the best European city breaks. Boasting excellent connection links from most major European cities, a vibrant cultural scene, and abundant sunshine throughout the year, it’s the perfect choice for a cultural weekend getaway.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Seville is a stunning place to visit in Spain, with warm weather and plenty of amazing things to do, I love it so much that I have visited Seville four times. It’s a wonderful European city break or a great addition to a longer Andalusian road trip.

Plan your Seville Trip

Here’s my go-to list of resources for booking flights, accommodation, tours and more:

• Booking.com : For the best accommodation rates
• Trip Advisor : Check out the latest reviews & trips
• Get Your Guide : For incredible day trips
• Discover Cars : Best car hire price comparison
• Rail Europe: Best routes & prices across networks
• 5 Essential Things To Do In Granada
• Travel Tips For Ronda Spain
• 7 Wonderful Day Tours From Seville Spain

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Seville Travel Guide​

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Welcome to Seville, a city that exudes charm and history with its stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and lively flamenco culture. With its intriguing combination of ancient history and modern flair, Seville is a destination in Spain that will capture your heart… as it did mine! 

I’ve visited Seville three times now and each time, I discover something new to love about this vibrant city.  Whether you’re exploring one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, taking in the stunning views of the city from the quirky Las Setas , or savoring some tapas and local wines, Seville will captivate you with its beauty, authenticity, and passion.

Read on to learn more as I share my essential Seville travel tips so that you can plan your dream trip!

Seville Facts and Figures

Today, Seville is recognized as one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Spain, with a deep history and heritage that continues to attract visitors from around the world. 

Here are some interesting facts about this beautiful city.

• Seville is the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain, with a population of over 690,000 people.
• Seville was founded as the Roman city of Hispalis in the 2nd century BC and later became a major center of commerce and culture during the Islamic period.
• Seville played an important role in the Age of Discovery, with Columbus setting out from the city on his second and fourth voyages to the Americas.
• During the Golden Age of Spanish literature, Seville was home to many prominent writers and artists, including the playwright Lope de Vega and the painter Diego Velázquez.
• Seville was a center of political and cultural resistance during the Spanish Civil War, and many of its historic buildings were damaged or destroyed during the conflict. The city has since undergone extensive restoration and renovation, including the restoration of the Alcázar of Seville, which suffered damage during the war.
• Seville hosted the 1992 World Exposition, which brought major infrastructure improvements to the city and helped to boost its tourism industry. The Plaza de España, a grand plaza in the Parque de María Luisa, was built for the exposition and features elaborate tilework and a moat. Today, it’s one of the city’s main tourist attractions.
• Seville is known for its hot and dry summers, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) in July and August.
• The Cathedral of Seville is the one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and is the final resting place of Christopher Columbus.
• The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace originally built by the Moorish rulers of Andalusia and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Seville is famous for its cuisine, including dishes such as gazpacho, salmorejo, and pescaíto frito (fried fish).
• Flamenco, the traditional music and dance of Andalusia, originated in Seville and is still a vibrant part of the city’s culture today.
• Seville is the setting for many famous works of literature, including Don Juan by Lord Byron and The Barber of Seville by Pierre Beaumarchais.
• Seville has a rich history of bullfighting, with the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla being one of the most prestigious bullrings in Spain.
• The University of Seville is one of the oldest universities in Spain, founded in 1505 by Cardinal Francisco Jiménez de Cisneros.

Visiting Seville, Spain: Travel Tips

Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip to Seville.

Getting to Seville

Seville is a major hub for transportation in southern Spain, with an international airport and high-speed rail connections to Madrid and other cities so it’s super easy to get here. 

Travelling from Cadiz to Seville? Then check out our Cadiz-Seville transport guide for everything you need to know.

If you’re coming from outside of Spain, it’s best to fly into the city. Seville has its own international airport, the Seville Airport (SVQ), which is located about 10 km from the city center. It offers direct flights from many European cities, as well as some destinations in North Africa. 

There are also some domestic flights from other Spanish airports but depending on where you’re coming from, you may be better off taking a train or bus versus flying (more on that next!).

The Seville airport is pretty small so don’t expect much on top of the basic services and amenities. 

Seville is well-connected by rail to other cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga. The Santa Justa train station is located about 2 km from the city center.

Here are approximate travel times for trains to Seville from other major Spanish cities:

• Train from Madrid to Seville: The AVE high-speed train connects Madrid and Seville in about 2.5 hours, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities. I’ve done this journey before and it’s super comfortable and fast – I would highly recommend it!
• Train from Barcelona to Seville: The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Seville is by AVE high-speed train, with a travel time of about 5.5 hours.
• Train from Valencia to Seville: The travel time between Valencia and Seville by train is about 6 hours, with direct connections available by high-speed train.
• Train from Malaga to Seville: The travel time between Malaga and Seville by train is about 2 hours, with direct connections available by high-speed train.

Tip: Travel times may vary depending on the specific train service, departure time, and any connections involved. It’s always best to check schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient journey to Seville. Typically, tickets are available up to 4 months before your travel date. Head to the Renfe website (be sure to toggle to the English language for easy navigation) to search for your routes.

Seville has a modern bus station, the Estación de Autobuses Plaza de Armas, which serves many domestic and international destinations.

The bus station is located not too far from the historic center and depending on where you’re staying, you may be able to walk there. If not, no worries. Ths bus station is also a local transportation hub and there are numerous public buses that serve the station (lines 3, 6, 21, 43, A2, A7, C3, EA). 

You can search for and buy bus tickets online and the bus company will depend on your departing destination. ALSA , which runs services across Spain, is a good place to check first. 

Travel times may vary depending on the specific bus service, departure time, and any connections involved but here are some estimated travel times:

• Bus from Madrid to Seville: The travel time between Madrid and Seville by bus is approximately 6 hours, with several bus companies offering regular services.
• Bus from Barcelona to Seville: The travel time between Barcelona and Seville by bus is approximately 14 hours, with direct connections available from some bus companies.
• Bus from Valencia to Seville: The travel time between Valencia and Seville by bus is approximately 10-12 hours, with some services requiring a transfer in Madrid.
• Bus from Malaga to Seville: The travel time between Malaga and Seville by bus is approximately 2.5 hours, with frequent direct connections offered by several bus companies.

As you see, taking a bus to Seville takes longer so if you’re short on time, then traveling by train is the best option. That said, bus tickets are cheaper so there is a trade-off. 

If you prefer to drive, Seville is well-connected to other cities in Spain by highways and roads. 

However, keep in mind that parking in the city center can be challenging, so it’s best to park outside and take public transport or walk. On my last trip of Seville, our car basically stayed in its parking lot during our entire stay there as we walked everywhere. 

Car Rental Recommendation

If you’re looking for the best prices for car rental during your stay in Spain, check out Discover Cars . Just plug in your location and dates and you’ll get the best deals available. Super convenient and easy! 

Getting Around Seville

Once you’re safely in Seville, getting around the city is easy. Most of the key tourist attractions and places of interest are located within Seville’s historic center, so the best way to get around is by foot. 

You can easily plan your days to focus on specific areas if you’d like to minimize walking across the city. Walking around Seville is also an awesome way to get a taste of the city’s vibe and maybe even stumble across some hidden gems!

If you’d like to be a bit more mobile, there are bike and electric scooter rentals located around the city. It’s fairly inexpensive and what’s more, it’s a fun way to explore Seville! There are bike lanes available on the larger streets, although I don’t believe any are available within the historic center itself. If you do decide to go with an electric scooter, do note that the uneven ground in the historic center will make it a bit challenging to scooter quickly. 

Seville has an efficient and modern public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro line. The public transport network covers most areas of the city and is relatively inexpensive. As a visitor, I would say that you’re most likely to use the tram or buses. 

Buses in Seville

The bus system in Seville is extensive and easy to use. Bus stops are clearly sign-posted and you can buy a bus ticket when you board. Buses typically run from around 6.00am to 11.30pm and there are some night buses that run until 2.00am. At the time of publishing, a single-journey ticket costs €1.40. 

There are also two transport card options that offer more value for money:

• Tarjeta Multiviaje is a rechargeable card (with a refundable deposit for the card) that can be use on buses and the tram. The minimum amount is seven euros and when using this card, each journey costs less than a single-journey ticket (under €1). You can buy and recharge a card at kiosks and estancos (tobacconists). This is ideal if you’re taking multiple bus or tram journeys during your Seville visit. 
• Intended for short visits, Tarjeta Turista offers a one-day card (€5) or three-day card (€10) with unlimited travel.  These can be purchased in the TUSSAM Information Points at Prado San Sebastián, Plaza Ponce de León y en Avda. Andalucía, 11. Like the Multiviaje, there’s a €1.50 deposit fee.

For more information on buses in Seville, visit the TUSSAM website .

Tram in Seville

Called the MetroCentro, the T1 tram is a short-distance tram with just 4 stops. It goes south from Plaza Nueva through the centre of the city (with a stop next to the Alcazar( to the San Bernardo train station.

A one-way ticket costs €1.20 and you can buy tickets at the machines on the tram platform (be sure to validate them when you get on the tram!). It’s cheaper if you have a Tarjeta Multiviaje card. 

Taxis in Seville

Taxis are a convenient and efficient way to get around Seville, especially for if you are traveling in a group, have mobility issues,  or when you need to travel with luggage. That said, there are some taxi drivers that take advantage of tourists so here’s what you need to know about taking a taxi in Seville. 

Taxi fares in Seville are metered and are based on the distance traveled and time taken. There are additional charges for weekends, holidays, night journeys, and for carrying luggage. You can expect a taxi from the airport to the center of Seville to cost around €20. ( Click here to see a breakdown of how tariffs and charges are imposed.)

There are taxi stands located throughout the city, including at major transport hubs, such as the airport, train station, and bus station. You can also flag down a taxi on the street, but it’s often more convenient to use a taxi stand to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

Taxis in Seville are generally safe and reliable, but it’s always best to take precautions when using any form of public transport. Make sure to only use licensed taxis, check the meter is running, and keep your belongings with you at all times.

Best Time to Go to Seville

In my opinion, the best time to visit Seville is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with warm days and cool nights. The crowds are also thinner, and prices for flights and accommodation are generally lower.

In spring, Seville is in full bloom with colorful flowers and lush greenery. This is the perfect time to visit the city’s many parks and gardens, including the famous Parque de María Luisa and the stunning Alcázar Gardens. The city also celebrates its annual Feria de Abril (April Fair) during this season, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy flamenco music, dance, and traditional food.

Autumn is another great time to visit Seville, as the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the city on foot. This is also the season for the annual International Film Festival of Seville, where film enthusiasts gather to watch the latest independent films from around the world. 

I’ve visited Seville twice during the autumn months and it’s my favorite time to visit in terms of vibe, weather, and activities. 

I would discourage you from visiting Seville in the summer months. Summer in Seville can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The high temperatures can make it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day, and many locals take their holidays during this period. However, if you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer can be a good time to experience the lively nightlife and outdoor events and festivals that take place throughout the city.

Winter in Seville is mild, with occasional rain and cool temperatures. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, then winter in Seville is for you. I’ve visited Seville in February towards the tail end of winter and loved my time there. It was still lively but not overly crowded and some days, with the warm sunshine on me, it didn’t even feel like winter! Learn more about winter in Seville in this article.

Overall, the best time to visit Seville depends on your preferences and travel style. Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. For a closer look at the weather in Seville and tips for enjoying the weather, read this article. You can also read our more in-depth article on the best time to go to Seville .

How Many Days to Spend in Seville?

Seville is lively and vibrant and there’s a lot to do here! On my first visit, I was in Seville for only 3 days and felt so sad to leave. I recommend spending at least three to four days in Seville to get a good sense of the city and its attractions. This timeframe would allow you to explore the historic center, visit the main landmarks, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

Ideally, if you have time to spare, I suggest 4 to 5 days in Seville as this would allow you to include a day trip in your itinerary. Seville to Cordoba is one of the most popular day trips and it’s well worth the effort – I’ve done it myself! Other day trip possibilities from Seville include the ancient Roman city of Italica or the charming town of Carmona.

However, if you’re short on time, it’s still possible to see the highlights of Seville in just a weekend (that is, 1 to 2 days). In this case, I recommend focusing on the must-see attractions and planning your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in the city.

• Check out our One Day in Seville Itinerary to help you plan the perfect day!
• Have more time? Then our Seville 2-day itinerary might work for you
• For the ideal trip, spend 4 days in Seville

What to Do in Seville, Spain

Here’s a quick overview of the best things to do in Seville, Spain:

• Marvel at the Real Alcázar: This stunning palace complex is one of Seville’s top attractions, with its beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and fascinating history. Here, you’ll get a closer look at the city’s Moorish past and it’s a wonderful complement to the Alhambra, if you’re visiting Granada as well. 
• Explore the Cathedral of Seville: This massive Gothic cathedral is the third largest in the world and boasts impressive features such as the Giralda Tower and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The walk up the Giralda is long and steep but the view is totally worth it!
• Wander around the Santa Cruz neighborhood: This charming, historic district is filled with narrow streets, picturesque courtyards, and traditional houses, making it the perfect place to wander and soak up the local culture. I’ve gotten delightfully lost in this neighborhood but didn’t mind it at all. 
• See a flamenco performance: Seville is known as the birthplace of flamenco, and there are many opportunities to experience this passionate dance form through performances at local venues. I’ve watched flamenco twice in Seville and both times, the performances were so emotional and moving.
• Wander around the Plaza de España: When you say Seville, it’s often a picture of the Plaza de España that comes to mind. This iconic landmark is a must-see, with its grand size, stunning architecture, and intricate tilework depicting each province of Spain. If you’re lucky, you might come across flamenco artists performing here… it’s such a cool experience! 
• Explore the Triana neighborhood: For a more authentic, down-to-earth side of Seville, head across the river to Tirana. This lively and colorful district is known for its vibrant nightlife, local markets, and ceramic shops. Tirana feels more lived-in and real and it’s fun to wander around the neighborhood. 
• Go to the Metropol Parasol (aka Las Setas) : Here, you can enjoy a more quirky side of Seville. This modern and innovative wooden structure is a unique addition to Seville’s skyline and provides stunning views of the city. You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists just hanging out and it’s a great place to people-watch. 
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts: Calling all art-lovers! This museum houses an impressive collection of Spanish art, including works by famous painters such as Velázquez and Murillo. (Pssst, entry is free for EU nationals!)
• Stroll along the Guadalquivir River: If you want a spot of relaxation, a walk along the Guadalquivir will do the job. This scenic river provides a unique perspective of Seville, with views of iconic landmarks such as the Torre del Oro and the Maestranza bullring. Take in the sunshine, the sights, and mingle with locals. 
• Visit the Mercado de la Encarnación: I love learning about a city through its food and there’s no better way to do that than to visit a local market. This indoor market is a food lover’s paradise, with its wide variety of fresh local produce, meats, and seafood.

These top 10 attractions provide a well-rounded experience of Seville’s history, culture, and beauty and you can easily cover them in 3 to 4 days! For the full list of things to do in Seville, click here .

And the fun doesn’t stop in Seville when the sun sets – check out the best things to do in Seville at night .

If you’re looking to spend some time by the sea, check out the best beaches close to Seville .

Recommended Tours & Activities in Seville

• Discover the city’s highlights on a free walking tour ! I love walking tours and take them whenever they’re available. They’re an awesome way to get to know a city when you first arrive.
• The line to enter Seville Alcazar is notoriously long (I once had to change my plans as the line was too long!) so it’s good idea to skip the line and buy your ticket in advance . If you’re a history lover like me, then you may also be interested in a guided tour of the monument so that you can learn more about its history. 
• The Seville Cathedral is also a super popular tourist attraction. Click here to buy your entry ticket (includes the Giralda) in advance.
• Want to visit the Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda in one day? Join a local guide in this 2.5-hour tour which includes all entry tickets. 
• It’d be a shame not to watch flamenco while in Seville! Check out this flamenco show in a historic venue or this flamenco show in Tirana . 
• Enjoy a relaxing day out on the river on this 2-hour yacht tour when you can admire Seville from the water. 
• Get acquainted with some of the best spots to eat in Seville in this tapas crawl (yummy!).
• Shop at the market like a local and learn how to make traditional Spanish dishes in this cooking class in Seville .

Here are other popular activities in Seville:

Festivals in Seville 

Seville is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals which celebrate the city’s rich history and culture. These three festivals provide a glimpse into Seville’s rich history and culture, and they are a great way to experience the city’s unique traditions and customs.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Semana Santa is a major religious holiday in all of Spain and it is especially impressive in Seville. The celebrations in Seville are said to date back to the 16th century and today, the traditions live on. 

Locals spend all year preparing for this week-long festival thattakes place in the week leading up to Easter.

Processions of elaborately decorated floats (called pasos ) carrying statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, wind through the streets of Seville, accompanied by the mournful sound of music played by marching bands. Some of the processions last up to 12 hours with devoted locals carrying the pasos !

The main processions take place in the city center, around the Cathedral and other historic churches. You can get more infromation on the Semana Santa routes in Seville on this website .

Tip: For a memorable sight, stand by the river and watch the processions come from Triana over the Puente de Isabel II. 

Feria de Abril

This week-long festival of music, dancing, and traditional dress is one of the most important events on the Sevillian calendar. Feria de Abril typically takes place two weeks after Holy Week, and it celebrates Seville’s cultural heritage. 

The fairground is set up in the district of Los Remedios, with hundreds of colorful tents (called casetas ) set up for eating, drinking, and dancing. The streets are filled with people wearing traditional flamenco dresses and suits, and the atmosphere is festive and joyful. Expect horse-drawn carriages, flamenco music, and tons of fun!

The fair also features a large amusement park, with rides and attractions for all ages. Feria de Abril is an unforgettable way to experience Seville’s vibrant culture and traditions.

Bienal de Flamenco

If you love music and dance, then you can’t miss the Bienal de Flamenco in Seville. 

This biennial festival celebrates flamenco, a traditional Spanish art form that combines singing, dancing, and guitar playing. Today, it is one of the most important flamenco festivals in the world.

During the Bienal de Flamenco, you’ll find performances by some of the most renowned flamenco artists, as well as up-and-coming talents. The shows take place in various venues throughout the city, including historic theaters, flamenco clubs, and outdoor stages.

The festival also offers workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that explore different aspects of flamenco culture so it’s the ideal time to learn about the history and evolution of flamenco, as well as the various styles and techniques used in the art form.

The Bienal de Flamenco is a unique opportunity to experience the passion and intensity of flamenco, and to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Seville. It is a must-see for anyone interested in flamenco or Spanish culture.

The festival will be next held in 2024. For more information, check out the official website .

Tip: Seville goes into overdrive when there’s a festival so if you’re planning a visit during one of these times, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. 

What to Eat in Seville

Ain’t nothing like food to get to know a place! If you’re excited to check out Seville’s culinary delights, you won’t be disappointed! Here, you’ll find some Spanish national favorites but also some local delicacies that are unique to the icty. 

Some of the most popular local dishes and must-try foods in Seville include:

• Tapas: Seville is famous for its tapas, small plates of food that are perfect for sharing. Some popular tapas dishes include tortilla española (Spanish omelet), croquetas (deep-fried balls of bechamel and filling), and montaditos (small sandwiches).
• Gazpacho: This cold soup is made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, bread, olive oil, and garlic. It’s perfect for hot days in Seville and is a refreshing and healthy option.
• Pescaíto frito : This is a fried fish dish that is popular throughout Andalucia. It’s usually made with small fish such as anchovies or sardines, and it’s often served as a tapa.
• Huevos a la Flamenca: This dish consists of baked eggs in a tomato sauce with chorizo, ham, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Solomillo al Whisky: This is a pork tenderloin dish that is cooked with whisky, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a classic Sevillian dish and is often served as a main course.

Sevillanos also love their desserts, and there are many delicious options to choose from, such as tocino de cielo (a rich egg yolk dessert), torrijas (similar to French toast), and yemas de San Leandro (sweet egg yolk candies).

So, as you wander around Seville, don’t forget to spot these items on the menu and give them a try!

More on Seville

The Ultimate Guide to Seville in 2 Days

One Day Seville Itinerary: See the Best of Seville in 24 Hours

Gibraltar Day Trip from Seville: All You Need to Know (2023 Guide)

Seville to Granada Day Trip: The Perfect One Day Itinerary

Cadiz to Seville: Ultimate Transport Guide (2023) 

Discover the Best Beach Near Seville for Your Next Vacation (2023)

Winter in Seville: Weather, Things to Do, and What to Expect

26 Marvelous Things to Do in Seville, Spain (Don’t Miss Them!)

4 Days in Seville: What to See and Do for an Unforgettable Trip

Best Things to Do in Seville at Night (2023 Guide)

Best Time to Visit Seville, Spain: A Comprehensive Guide

Seville, Spain Weather: When to Go, Travel Tips & FAQs

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“Seville,” wrote Byron, “is a pleasant city, famous for oranges and women.” And for its heat, he might perhaps have added, since Seville’s summers are intense and start early, in May. Seville (Sevilla) has three important monuments and an illustrious history, but what it’s essentially famous for is its own living self – the greatest city of the Spanish south, of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro, and the archetype of Andalucian promise. This reputation for gaiety and brilliance, for theatricality and intensity of life does seem deserved. It’s expressed on a phenomenally grand scale at the city’s two great festivals – Semana Santa (Holy Week at Easter) and the Feria de Abril (which starts two weeks after Easter Sunday and lasts a week). Either is worth considerable effort to get to. Seville is also Spain’s second most important centre for bullfighting, after Madrid.

The Catedral

Moorish seville, the alcázar.

Despite its elegance and charm, and its wealth, based on food processing, shipbuilding, aircraft construction and a thriving tourist industry, Seville lies at the centre of a depressed agricultural area and has an unemployment rate of nearly twenty percent – one of the highest in Spain. The total refurbishment of the infrastructure boosted by the 1992 Expo – including impressive new roads, seven bridges, a high-speed rail link and a revamped airport – was intended to regenerate the city’s (and the region’s) economic fortunes, but has hardly turned out to be the catalyst for growth and prosperity promised at the time. Indeed, some of the colossal debts are still unpaid two decades later.

Seville’s old city – where you’ll want to spend most of your time – is sited along the east bank of the Guadalquivir. At its heart, side by side, stand the three great monuments: the Giralda tower, the Catedral and the Alcázar, with the cramped alleyways of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the medieval Jewish quarter and now the heart of tourist life, extending east of them.

North of here is the main shopping and commercial district, its most obvious landmarks Plaza Nueva, Plaza Duque de la Victoria and the smart, pedestrianized c/Sierpes, which runs roughly between them. From La Campana, the small square at the northern end of c/Sierpes, c/Alfonso XII runs down towards the river by way of the Museo de Bellas Artes, second in importance in Spain only to the Prado in Madrid. Across the river is the earthier, traditionally working-class district of Triana, flanked to the south by the Los Remedios

barrio, the city’s wealthier residential zone where the great April feria takes place.

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Andalucía by Car

Enjoy this road trip through Spain’s exuberant Andalucía, which will take you through the charming cities of Malaga, Seville, Granada and various 'white villages', including Ronda, with its vertiginous views across the sweeping Andalucían countryside.

5 days  / from 1717 USD

The Lands of Wine from Madrid

Spain is well known for its amazing wines and this itinerary allows you to explore two famous regions: Ribera del Duero and La Rioja. Four different wineries, from traditional to modern, and many restaurants on the way await your visit.

9 days  / from 1490 USD

The Cities, Mountains and Beaches of Northern Spain

Southern Spain has been a busy tourist destination for many years. This self-drive trip avoids the touristy area along the southern Spanish coast, instead opting to take in the culture of the north and its natural beauty and the rugged beaches and coast.

4 days  / from 902 USD

Simply Seville

Make the most of a city break in one of Spain's most atmospheric cities. The home of flamenco, Seville is a veritable feast for all the senses. Come here for the tantalising cuisine and fragrant orange trees, awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, pretty plazas and many excellent museums and galleries.

13 days  / from 6572 USD

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7 days  / from 2700 USD

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4 days  / from 1539 USD

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4 days  / from 1582 USD

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12 days  / from 4012 USD

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29 days  / from 9245 USD

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16 days  / from 2538 USD

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10 days  / from 4590 USD

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7 days  / from 3062 USD

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Neighbour countries - Portugal and Spain, different and similar at the same time, will surprise you with hospitality and loveliness. This itinerary includes the route of the Northwest part of Iberian Peninsula and offers you to meet beautiful Porto and stunning Vigo in Galicia/Spain.

15 days  / from 5913 USD

Camino de Santiago & Portugal Deluxe

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4 days  / from 2538 USD

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Visit La Rioja, Spain's most renowned wine-producing region, and discover the secrets of Spanish wine making. By the time this unique trip is over, you'll have sampled a wide range of fine Spanish wines, and you're sure to be going home as an expert.

18 days  / from 5962 USD

Self Drive in Northern Spain

This tour is perfect for the independent traveller, with a sense of adventure and a love for food. Start in Santiago and discover among others Galicia and Asturia, all the way to Basque Country. On the way, Michelin starred restaurants and beautiful vineyards await. Finish your trip in Barcelona.

8 days  / from 2479 USD

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9 days  / from 5935 USD

Unique Spain - Cultural Getaway

A trip filled with history, amazing landscapes and cultural attractions. Starting with walking tours around the cities hearts, to exploring the gastronomy, the arts and the folklore. Your trip begins in Barcelona before proceeding to Madrid and finishing in Seville - Andalusia's capital.

Seville’s Catedral was conceived in 1402 as an unrivalled monument to Christian glory – “a building on so magnificent a scale that posterity will believe we were mad”. To make way for this new monument, the Almohad mosque that stood on the proposed site was almost entirely demolished. Meanwhile, the canons, inspired by their vision of future repute, renounced all but a subsistence level of their incomes to further the building.

The cathedral was completed in just over a century (1402–1506), an extraordinary achievement, as it’s the largest Gothic church in the world. As Norman Lewis says, “It expresses conquest and domination in architectural terms of sheer mass.” Though it is built upon the huge, rectangular base-plan of the old mosque, the Christian architects (probably under the direction of the French master architect of Rouen cathedral) added the extra dimension of height. Its central nave rises to 42m, and even the side chapels seem tall enough to contain an ordinary church. The total area covers 11,520 square metres, and new calculations, based on cubic measurement, have now pushed it in front of St Paul’s in London and St Peter’s in Rome as the largest church in the world, a claim upheld by the Guinness Book of Records, a copy of whose certificate is proudly displayed in the church.

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The monument to Christopher Columbus

Entry to the cathedral is via the Puerta de San Cristóbal on the building’s south side; you are guided through a reception area and bookshop that brings you into the church to the west of the portal itself. Turn right once inside to head east, where you will soon be confronted by the Tomb of Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón in Spanish). Columbus’ remains were originally interred in the cathedral of Havana, on the island that he had discovered on his first voyage in 1492. But during the upheavals surrounding the declaration of Cuban independence in 1902, Spain transferred the remains to Seville, and the monumental tomb – in the late Romantic style by Arturo Mélida – was created to house them. However, doubts have always been voiced concerning the authenticity of the remains, and in 2002 scientists from the University of Granada carried out DNA tests in an attempt to confirm that they are those of Columbus – but these proved inconclusive. The mariner’s coffin is held aloft by four huge allegorical figures, representing the kingdoms of León, Castile, Aragón and Navarra; the lance of León should be piercing a pomegranate (now inexplicably missing), symbol of Granada (and the word for the fruit in Spanish), the last Moorish kingdom to be reconquered.

As you move into the nave, sheer size and grandeur are, inevitably, the chief characteristics of the cathedral. But once you’ve grown accustomed to the gloom, two other qualities stand out with equal force: the rhythmic balance and interplay between the parts, and an impressive overall simplicity and restraint in decoration. All successive ages have left monuments of their own wealth and style, but these have been limited to the two rows of side chapels. In the main body of the cathedral only the great box-like structure of the coro stands out, filling the central portion of the nave.

The Capilla Mayor

The coro extends and opens onto the Capilla Mayor, dominated by a vast Gothic retablo composed of 45 carved scenes from the Life of Christ. The lifetime’s work of a single craftsman, Fleming Pieter Dancart, this is the supreme masterpiece of the cathedral – the largest and richest altarpiece in the world and one of the finest examples of Gothic wood carving. The guides provide staggering statistics on the amount of gold involved.

The Sacristía de los Cálices

Before proceeding around the edge of the nave in a clockwise direction it’s best to backtrack to the church’s southeast corner to take in the Sacristía de los Cálices where many of the cathedral’s main art treasures are displayed, including a masterly image of Santas Justa y Rufina by Goya, depicting Seville’s patron saints, who were executed by the Romans in 287. Should you be interested in studying the many canvases here or the abundance of major artworks placed in the various chapels, it’s worth calling at the bookshop near the entrance to purchase a copy of the official Guide to the Cathedral of Seville, which deals with them in detail.

The Sacristía Mayor

Alongside this room is the grandiose Sacristía Mayor, housing the treasury. Embellished in the Plateresque style, it was designed in 1528 by Diego de Riaño, one of the foremost exponents of this predominantly decorative architecture of the late Spanish Renaissance. Amid a confused collection of silver reliquaries and monstrances – dull and prodigious wealth – are displayed the keys presented to Fernando by the Jewish and Moorish communities on the surrender of the city; sculpted into the metal in stylized Arabic script are the words “May Allah render eternal the dominion of Islam in this city”. Through a small antechamber here you enter the oval-shaped Sala Capitular (chapterhouse), with paintings by Murillo and an outstanding marble floor with geometric design.

Puerta del Nacimiento

Continuing to the southwest corner and the Puerta del Nacimiento – the door through which pass all the pasos and penitents who take part in the Semana Santa processions – you then turn right (north) along the west wall, passing the Puerta Principal.

The Capilla de San Antonio

In the northwest corner, the Capilla de San Antonio has Murillo’s Vision of St Anthony depicting the saint in ecstatic pose before an infant Christ. A magnificent work: try to spot where the restorers joined San Antonio back into place after he had been crudely hacked out of the picture by thieves in the nineteenth century. He was eventually discovered in New York – where art dealers recognized the work they were being asked to buy – and returned to the cathedral. The Baptism of Jesus above this is another fine work by the same artist.

The Capilla Real

The nave’s north side leads to the Puerta de la Concepción, through which you will exit – but before doing so, continue to the northeast corner to view the domed Renaissance Capilla Real, built on the site of the original royal burial chapel and containing the body of Fernando III (El Santo) in a suitably rich, silver shrine in front of the altar. The large tombs on either side of the chapel are those of Fernando’s wife, Beatrice of Swabia, and his son, Alfonso the Wise. The chapel is reserved for services and private prayer and may only be viewed via the entrance in Plaza Virgen de los Reyes (Mon–Sat 8am–2pm & 4–7pm; free). You are now close to the entry to the Giralda tower.

The entrance to the Giralda lies to the left of the Capilla Real in the cathedral’s northeast corner. Unquestionably the most beautiful building in Seville, the Giralda, named after the sixteenth-century giraldillo, or weather vane, on its summit, dominates the city skyline. From the entrance you can ascend to the bell chamber for a remarkable view of the city – and, equally remarkable, a glimpse of the Gothic details of the cathedral’s buttresses and statuary. But most impressive of all is the tower’s inner construction, a series of 35 gently inclined ramps wide enough to allow two mounted guards to pass.

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The minaret

The Giralda tower, before it was embellished with Christian additions, was the mosque’s minaret and the artistic pinnacle of Almohad architecture. Such was its fame that it served as a model for other minarets at the imperial capitals of Rabat and Marrakesh. It was used by the Moors both for calling the faithful to prayer (the traditional function of a minaret) and as an observatory, and was so venerated that they wanted to destroy it before the Christian conquest of the city. This they were prevented from doing by the threat of Alfonso (later King Alfonso X) that “if they removed a single stone, they would all be put to the sword”. Instead, it became the bell tower of the Christian cathedral.

The Giralda’s construction

The Moorish structure took twelve years to build (1184–96) and derives its firm, simple beauty from the shadows formed by blocks of brick trelliswork (a style known as sebka), different on each side, and relieved by a succession of arched niches and windows. The original harmony has been somewhat spoiled by the Renaissance-era addition of balconies and, to a still greater extent, by the four diminishing storeys of the belfry – added, along with the Italian-sculpted bronze figure of “Faith” which surmounts them, in 1560–68, following the demolition by an earthquake of the original copper spheres. Even so, it remains in its perfect synthesis of form and decoration one of the most important and beautiful monuments of the Islamic world.

The Patio de los Naranjos

To reach the cathedral’s exit, move east along the nave’s north side to reach the Puerta de la Concepción, passing through this to enter the Patio de los Naranjos. Along with the Giralda tower, this was the only feature to be spared from the original mosque. In Moorish times the mosque would have been entered via the Puerta del Pardon, now the visitor exit. Taking its modern name from the orange trees that now shade the patio, this was the former mosque’s entrance courtyard. Although somewhat marred by Renaissance additions, the patio still incorporates a Moorish fountain where worshippers carried out at ritual ablutions prior to worship. Interestingly, it incorporates a sixth-century font from an earlier Visigothic cathedral, which was in its turn levelled to make way for the mosque.

Seville was one of the earliest Moorish conquests (in 712) and, as part of the Caliphate of Córdoba, became the second city of al-Andalus. When the caliphate broke up in the early eleventh century it was by far the most powerful of the independent states (or taifas) to emerge, extending its power over the Algarve and eventually over Jaén, Murcia and Córdoba itself. This period, under a series of three Arabic rulers from the Abbadid dynasty (1023–91), was something of a golden age. The city’s court was unrivalled in wealth and luxury and was sophisticated, too, developing a strong chivalric element and a flair for poetry – one of the most skilled exponents being the last ruler, al-Mu’tamid, the “poet-king”. But with sophistication came decadence, and in 1091 Abbadid rule was overthrown by a new force, the Almoravids, a tribe of fanatical Berber Muslims from North Africa, to whom the Andalucians had appealed for help against the rising threat from the northern Christian kingdoms.

Despite initial military successes, the Almoravids failed to consolidate their gains in al-Andalus and attempted to rule through military governors from Marrakesh. In the middle of the twelfth century, they were in turn supplanted by a new Berber incursion, the Almohads, who by about 1170 had recaptured virtually all the former territories. Seville had accepted Almohad rule in 1147 and became the capital of this last real empire of the Moors in Spain. Almohad power was sustained until their disastrous defeat in 1212 by the combined Christian armies of the north, at Las Navas de Tolosa. In this brief and precarious period, Seville underwent a renaissance of public building, characterized by a new vigour and fluidity of style. The Almohads rebuilt the Alcázar, enlarged the principal mosque – later demolished to make room for the Christian cathedral – and erected a new and brilliant minaret, a tower over 100m tall, topped with four copper spheres that could be seen for miles around: the Giralda.

Rulers of Seville have occupied the site of the Alcázar from the time of the Romans. Here was built the great court of the Abbadids, which reached a peak of sophistication and exaggerated sensuality under the cruel and ruthless al-Mu’tadid – a ruler who enlarged the palace in order to house a harem of eight hundred women, and who decorated the terraces with flowers planted in the skulls of his decapitated enemies. Later, under the Almohads, the complex was turned into a citadel, forming the heart of the town’s fortifications. Its extent was enormous, stretching to the Torre del Oro on the bank of the Guadalquivir.

Parts of the Almohad walls survive, but the present structure of the palace dates almost entirely from the Christian period. Seville was a favoured residence of the Spanish kings for some four centuries after the Reconquest – most particularly of Pedro the Cruel (Pedro I; 1350–69) who, with his mistress María de Padilla, lived in and ruled from the Alcázar. Pedro embarked upon a complete rebuilding of the palace, employing workmen from Granada and utilizing fragments of earlier Moorish buildings in Seville, Córdoba and Valencia. Pedro’s works form the nucleus of the Alcázar as it is today and, despite numerous restorations necessitated by fires and earth tremors, it offers some of the best surviving examples of Mudéjar architecture – the style developed by Moors working under Christian rule. Later monarchs, however, have left all too many traces and additions. Isabel built a new wing in which to organize expeditions to the Americas and control the new territories; Carlos V married a Portuguese princess in the palace, adding huge apartments for the occasion; and under Felipe IV (c.1624) extensive renovations were carried out to the existing rooms. On a more mundane level, kitchens were installed to provide for General Franco, who stayed in the royal apartments whenever he visited Seville.

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Entry and the Salón del Almirante

The Alcázar is entered from the Plaza del Triunfo, adjacent to the cathedral. The gateway, flanked by original Almohad walls, opens onto a courtyard where Pedro I (who was known as “the Just” as well as “the Cruel”, depending on one’s fortunes) used to give judgement; to the left is his Sala de Justicia and beyond this the Patio del Yeso, the only surviving remnant of the Almohads’ Alcázar. The main facade of the palace stands at the end of an inner court, the Patio de la Montería; on either side are galleried buildings erected by Isabel. This principal facade is pure fourteenth-century Mudéjar and, with its delicate, marble-columned windows, stalactite frieze and overhanging roof, is one of the finest things in the whole Alcázar.

The Salón del Almirante

As you will exit on the other side of the complex, it’s probably better to look round the Salón del Almirante (or Casa de Contración de Indias), the sixteenth-century building on the right, before entering the main palace. Founded by Isabel in 1503, this gives you a standard against which to assess the Moorish forms. Here most of the rooms seem too heavy, their decoration ceasing to be an integral part of the design. The only notable exception is the Sala de Audiencias (or Capilla de los Navigantes, Chapel of the Navigators) with its magnificent artesonado ceiling inlaid with golden rosettes; within is a fine sixteenth-century retablo by Alejo Fernández depicting Columbus (in gold) and Carlos V (in a red cloak) sheltering beneath the Virgin. In the rear, to the left, are portrayed the kneeling figures of the Indians to whom the dubious blessings of Christianity had been brought by the Spanish conquest.

The royal apartments

The royal apartments, known as the Palacio Real Alto, have now been opened for visits when not in use, and a temporary desk located in front of the Salón del Almirante sells tickets (€4) for a guided tour lasting about thirty minutes. This takes in the royal chapel with a fine early sixteenth-century retablo by Nicola Pisano; the so-called bedroom of Pedro I, with fine early Mudéjar plasterwork; and the equally splendid Sala de Audiencias – with more stunning plaster and tile decoration – which is still used by the royal family when receiving visitors in Seville.

Palacio de Pedro I

As you enter the main palace, the Palacio de Pedro I, the “domestic” nature of Moorish and Mudéjar architecture is immediately striking. This involves no loss of grandeur but simply a shift in scale: the apartments are remarkably small, shaped to human needs, and take their beauty from the exuberance of the decoration and the imaginative use of space and light. There is, too, a deliberate disorientation in the layout of the rooms, which makes the palace seem infinitely larger and more open than it really is. From the entrance court a narrow passage leads straight into the central courtyard, the Patio de las Doncellas (Patio of the Maidens), its name recalling the Christians’ tribute of one hundred virgins presented annually to the Moorish kings. The heart of the patio has recently been restored to its fourteenth-century original state after having been buried under a tiled pavement for four centuries. Archeologists have replanted the six orange trees that once grew in sunken gardens to either side of a central pool. The pool is now filled with goldfish – as it was in the time of Pedro I – a medieval way of eliminating mosquitoes in summer. The court’s stucco work, azulejos and doors are all of the finest Granada craftsmanship. Interestingly, it’s also the only part of the palace where Renaissance restorations are successfully fused – the double columns and upper storey were built by Carlos V, whose Plus Ultra (“yet still farther”) motto recurs in the decorations here and elsewhere.

Salons de Carlos V and Embajadores

Past the Salón de Carlos V, distinguished by a superb ceiling, are three rooms from the original fourteenth-century design built for María de Padilla (who was popularly thought to use magic in order to maintain her hold over Pedro – and perhaps over other gallants at court, too, who used to drink her bath water). These open onto the Salón de Embajadores (Salon of the Ambassadors), the most brilliant room of the Alcázar, with a stupendous media naranja (half-orange) wooden dome of red, green and gold cells, and horseshoe arcades inspired by the great palace of Medina Azahara outside Córdoba. Although restored, for the worse, by Carlos V – who added balconies and an incongruous frieze of royal portraits to commemorate his marriage to Isabel of Portugal here – the salon stands comparison with the great rooms of Granada’s Alhambra. Adjoining are a long dining hall (comedor) and a small apartment installed in the late sixteenth century for Felipe II.

Patio de las Muñecas

The last great room of the palace – the Patio de las Muñecas (Patio of the Dolls), takes its curious name from two tiny faces decorating the inner side of one of the smaller arches. It’s thought to be the site of the harem in the original palace. In this room, Pedro is reputed to have murdered his brother Don Fadrique in 1358; another of his royal guests, Abu Said of Granada, was murdered here for his jewels (one of which, an immense ruby that Pedro later gave to Edward, the “Black Prince”, now figures in the British crown jewels). The upper storey of the court is a much later, nineteenth-century restoration. On the other sides of the patio are the bedrooms of Isabel and of her son Don Juan, and the arbitrarily named Dormitorio del los Reyes Moros (Bedroom of the Moorish Kings).

Palacio de Carlos V

To the left of the main palace loom the large and soulless apartments of the Palacio de Carlos V – something of an endurance test, with endless tapestries (eighteenth-century copies of the sixteenth-century originals now in Madrid) and pink, orange or yellow paintwork. Their classical style asserts a different and inferior mood.

The gardens

It’s best to hurry through to the beautiful and rambling Jardines de los Reales Alcázares (gardens), the confused but enticing product of several eras, where you can take a well-earned rest from your exertions. Here you’ll find the vaulted baths in which María de Padilla is supposed to have bathed (in reality, an auxiliary water supply for the palace), and the Estanque de Mercurio with a bronze figure of the messenger of the gods at its centre. This pool was specially constructed for Felipe V in 1733, who whiled away two solitary years at the Alcázar fishing here and preparing himself for death through religious flagellation. Just to the left of the pool a path beyond the Puerta de Marchena leads to a pleasant cafetería with a terrace overlooking the gardens. South of here towards the centre of the gardens there’s an unusual and entertaining maze of myrtle bushes and, nearby, the pavilion (pabellón) of Carlos V, the only survivor of several he built for relaxation.

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Seville (Berlitz Pocket Travel Guides) Paperback – 1 Jan. 1992

• Print length 136 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Berlitz Publishing Company
• Publication date 1 Jan. 1992
• ISBN-10 2831523567
• ISBN-13 978-2831523569
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Berlitz Publishing Company; Revised edition (1 Jan. 1992)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 136 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 2831523567
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-2831523569
• 22,221 in Specialty Travel
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Seville travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

Why you’ll love it

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Sun-soaked Seville is an intoxicating mix of history, elegance and vivacious locals who know how to live the good life. Every street reflects a crossing of cultures and times, from the 500 years of Moorish rule to the opulent 16th-century buildings, built with the riches of the Spanish Empire, when ships sailed up the Guadalquivir River direct to Seville. The old centre is a tangle of narrow medieval streets, while the former gypsy neighbourhood of Triana, one of the birthplaces of flamenco, has become the city’s hippest hangout.

There are tiny hole-in-the-wall tapas bars and warm evenings are spent sipping cool cañas (small glasses) of beer with locals at terraza bars that spill into plazas filled with orange trees. Then there are the festivities: the sombre spectacle of Semana Santa processions featuring hooded penitents and the unbridled joy of the Feria de Abril, all lavish flamenco dresses and sevillana dancing.

Main photo: Plaza de Espana (Getty Images)

Nothing captures Seville’s blend of cultures like its historic centre. Visit the cathedral to marvel at its size (it’s the third largest in the world) and visit the tomb of Christopher Columbus. You can also climb La Giralda* , the bell tower that was once the minaret of the mosque that stood on this spot.

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A short stroll away the Alcázar royal palace was built by the Moors on Roman foundations, with further palaces added after the reconquest of the city. The result is a blend of rich Arabic architecture with intricate stonework and coloured tiles, and lush gardens and courtyards, where water trickles and lowers the scorching summer temperatures. If it looks familiar, that’s because it had a star turn in Game of Thrones as the Water Gardens of Dorne.

Step outside into the cobbled, maze-like streets of Santa Cruz* , the Jewish quarter, where colourful houses with balconies full of flowers open onto plazas peppered with orange trees. As the heat of the day passes, join the locals for a promenade along the banks of the Guadalquivir River, passing the Torre del Oro, first built in the 13th century. Soak up the views across to the colourful gypsy quarter of Triana, a neighbourhood well worth exploring for its authentic tapas bars, lively spirit and the foot-stamping passion of its flamenco shows.

Where to stay

Whether you’re looking for a hotel fit for a king, boutique accommodation in an elegant converted mansion or even a spot with a sunny rooftop pool, you’ll find it in Seville . If you like your accommodation as grand as the sites you are visiting, look no further than the Alfonso XIII* , situated right next to the Alcázar. Built 100 years ago, it is all marble, elegant arches and striking Triana tiles, with a glorious pool and palm-dotted terraces. Head to Santa Cruz if you’re looking for cosy boutique hideaways that overlook whimsical plazas. Here you’ll find options such as Casa del Poeta* , a gorgeous 17th-century mansion that’s hidden among the district’s narrow streets.

For a more modern touch, Triana has grand riverside hotels with terraces and rooftop pools offering sweeping views across to the historic heart of the city — perfect for those hot summer days — as well as a mix of avant-garde, bohemian options. The riverside Arenal district bustles with bars and restaurants and is next to the cathedral and Alcázar, while the historic centre itself is filled with grand mansions and palaces turned into boutique hotels set around central courtyards.

Food and drink

From cosy tapas bars to high-end cuisine, Seville’s foodie scene* is a delight. Start at El Rinconcillo, the city’s oldest tapas bar, dating from 1760, where you can tuck into fried anchovies and a glass of sherry among the oak beams, colourful tiles and hanging legs of jamon. Everywhere you turn in the historic heart of the city and in Triana you’ll find tapas bars steeped in history and terrace bars and restaurants where locals go to enjoy the balmy evenings.

Make sure to order some carrillada (stewed pork cheek), or a refreshing salmorejo — a thick and cold tomato-based soup made with bread and a rich drizzle of olive oil that is perfect for summer. Pringa is a meat-heavy dish consisting of slow-cooked pork or beef with black pudding and chorizo. It is a Seville specialty, found in hearty, Sunday stews, or as a filling for a very Sevillian sandwich.

For a local foodie experience head to the colourful Triana Market, built on the foundations of Castle of San Jorge, seat of the Spanish Inquisition. Here you can see plump olives piled high, legs of jamon and that Andalusian mix of Arabic-Spanish nuts and sweets. Join one of the many market tours available and you can pick up the ingredients to cook a traditional lunch in a local home.

The Palacio de las Dueñas* is a 15th-century Renaissance palace that integrates gothic and Mudéjar design elements, with glorious gardens blooming with colour and an impressive art collection. Hailed for its historic architectural significance, it is one of Seville’s most visited monuments, owned at present by the House of Alba, one of Europe’s wealthiest aristocratic families.

For a look at Seville’s contemporary side, take a walk around the Metropol Parasol — an enormous wooden structure described as six interlinking mushrooms (hence its nickname in Spanish, “Las Setas”. Completed in 2011, the quirky structure looms over a shady public plaza, with Romand and Moorish ruins to be seen below and spectacular city views to be enjoyed from the walkways above.

Seville is well worth a visit during its two biggest celebrations of the year. Semana Santa — Holy Week — is when hooded penitents carry opulent religious states aloft as they sway through streets thick with incense. It is closely followed by the Feria de Abril — the April Fair — an explosion of unbridled joy, music and flamenco dresses as sevillanos dress to impress to attend private parties held in tents known as “casetas” in the fairground. Luckily for visitors there are some open to the public as well, so you too can dress in your finery.

Know before you go

The currency in Spain is the euro. Expect steeper prices during the June to September high season, and think about booking ahead to avoid missing out on hyped restaurants or top tourist attractions. Seville’s summer temperatures can soar to 36C , so keep water and sun cream to hand and wear comfortable summer clothes. Be vigilant of pickpockets, especially around the main attractions in the city centre. Opportunistic thefts do happen, so keep your belongings in sight and close by at all times.

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Local's guide to Seville

Apr 3, 2020 • 5 min read

I moved to Seville in 2003, after 10 years of working in London and Quito. The city has an amazing history, with hugely varied architecture; even now, I’m always discovering new corners. Also, it’s packed into a small area, so you can walk almost everywhere. The sunshine, great food and friendly people are a plus.

When I’m looking for something sweet… Heladerías (ice-cream parlours) have always been popular in sweltering Seville , but these days it’s about more than just a scoop of vainilla in a cone. Choose your polo (popsicle) from fruit sorbets (raspberry) creamy (chocolate) or cocktails (Mojito), add a dipping sauce, and then finish off with chopped nuts or sprinkles. Wander through the streets of this dreamy city, nibbling your perfect concoction. Or sit on a bench in Plaza del Duque, a few steps away from The Loco Polo store. 

The best time in Seville is… No doubt about it – if you’re able to, come in spring. The days are balmy and the nights mild, the sun will warm your face without roasting you mercilessly, and the scent of orange blossom fills the air. The streets are buzzing as people prepare for Semana Santa , the Holy Week processions which see hundreds of life-size wooden statues carried all over the city, by day and night. Be prepared for figures in medieval-looking hooded robes, like dementors from Harry Potter, and loud brass bands, accompanying the floats. Feel the raw emotion as a devotee belts out a saeta , a spine-chilling lamentation sung to the Virgin Mary, from a balcony as she passes below. Just a couple of weeks later, the ambience flips from mournful to merry, and it’s time to don your flamenco frock and go dancing, sup fried fish and glug manzanilla sherry at the Feria de Abril – in a horse-drawn carriage, if you’re lucky. The Sevillanos can party like no one else – from lunchtime until the small hours every day for a week.

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The best places in Seville are… The Alcazar palace, where Game of Thrones was filmed, is undeniably stunning and a great microcosm of Seville’s history (from Moorish patios to Mudéjar pools, Gothic arches and Renaissance). The gardens are delightful, and if you happen to visit in summer, the outdoor night-time concerts are unmissable. The other must-sees are Triana , the riverside barrio where all the city’s ceramic tiles were made – check out the market, with its hanging legs of hams and mini-flamenco theatre, and walk along Calle Pureza to Santa Ana , the oldest parish church in the city; and Plaza de España , the breathtaking monument in Maria Luisa Park , built to welcome the old colonies back to the motherland at the 1929 World’s Fair. Its sweeping colonnade, tiled panels (one for each province in Spain) and pretty canal are at the same time romantic and impressive.

My go-to foodie spots…   Torres y Garcia is an airy contemporary Andalucian restaurant in the Arenal district, with high ceilings and huge windows. Carnivores can tuck into classics such as beef tongue and pig’s trotters, while humble veggies are cleverly elevated to god-like status: delicate slivers of zucchini paired with papaya and spicy Thai dressing; and hearty wood-roasted cabbage with black garlic, cashew and cumin.  Best of all, the excellent sommelier Alex can suggest excellent wine pairings, including with sherry – try Sanchez Romate Fino Perdido (the gorgeous label is Instagram heaven) or Manzanilla Pasada Sacristia. 

You might also like:   Top 20 free things to do in Seville

One thing to avoid… If you want to visit the old Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz, home to arms-width narrow alleyways and pretty shaded squares lined with tiled benches, go early in the day. Leave it too late, and it will be filled with tour groups – tricky when some streets are only one person wide, and you come upon a mass of people trying to head past you in the opposite direction.

One tip… While the Alcazar is stunning, a more under-the-radar option (no need to book tickets in advance) is the Palacio de las Dueñas , one of the homes of the late Duquesa de Alba. This colourful aristocrat, who had more titles than the Queen of England, adored Seville, the Feria, Semana Santa and Betis football club. The Duchess welcomed the likes of Grace Kelly and Jackie Kennedy to her 15th-century palace, with its garden of citrus trees and stunning patios with Mudejar stucco-work arches. Don’t miss the shop, where you can buy honey, cookies and olive oil under the “Casa de Alba” logo, as well as tasteful arty gifts galore.

When I want to cool off… In the swelteringly hot Seville summer, the coolest place is either by the river, or on a rooftop where you can catch any breeze. As night falls, head to one of the many roof terrace bars – two favourites are The Corner House in the boho Alameda district, which has a relaxed vibe (and outdoor heaters, making it perfect for cooler months too) and Puravida , close to the cathedral, where you can watch live flamenco fusion with the Giralda as a backdrop, while sinking a cocktail.

You may also like: Best day trips from Seville On the tapas trail in Seville Up all night: the best rooftop bars in Seville

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The Ultimate Seville Travel Guide

Begin your adventure with 'The Ultimate Seville, Spain Travel Guide', a comprehensive resource for delving into the heart of Andalusia.

Mundo Maya Travel

• Updated: December 8, 2023
• 25 min read

Begin your adventure with ‘The Ultimate Seville, Spain Travel Guide’, a comprehensive resource for delving into the heart of Andalusia.

In Seville, a tapestry of old and new weaves together, presenting a multitude of fascinating sights. Step into the splendor of the Alcázar or stroll through the verdant landscapes of Maria Luisa Park.

Tailored for the enthusiastic traveler, this guide plunges you into Seville’s mesmerizing atmosphere.

Are you piecing together your voyage plans or in need of economical travel insights? Our Seville travel guide is packed with invaluable tips for smooth navigation through Seville’s charming lanes.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• General Overview : Seville, originally a Roman city, is known for its blend of Islamic and European architecture, flamenco dancing, and hot summers. It's a popular destination for students and budget travelers, less crowded and more affordable than Barcelona or Madrid.
• Casa de Pilatos : A 16th-century Andalusian palace combining Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudejar styles, with a significant collection of paintings and azulejo.
• Parque de Maria Luisa : Seville's main public park, featuring gardens, patios, and sculptures, near the Guadalquivir River.
• Royal Alcázar : Europe's oldest residential palace still in use, showcasing Moorish architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Jewish Quarter : Known for its charming small winding streets.
• Food Tours : Offering insights into the local cuisine and culture.
• Other Notable Sites : Include Catedral of Sevilla, Plaza de España, Iglesia de San Isidoro, Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo, General Archives of the Indies, Flamenco Museum, Museo de Bellas Artes, Metropol Parasol, Alameda de Hercules, and activities like bike tours and Spanish classes.
• Accommodation : Hostels range from 12-20 EUR for dorms, with private rooms at 55-75 EUR. Budget hotels and Airbnb options are also available.
• Food Culture : Meals are typically long and served late. Local dishes include seafood, gazpacho, Iberian ham, and sherry. Tapas bars offer affordable dining options.
• Transportation : An extensive bus network and tram system, along with options for bike rentals and taxis. Uber is also available.
• Best Time to Visit : March to May, avoiding the crowded and expensive Easter season. Summers are hot, and winters are cooler and quieter.
• Safety Tips : Be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially around nightlife areas. Avoid dark, empty streets when alone.
• Money-Saving Tips : Utilize the Tarjeta TurÍstica pass for public transport, visit attractions like the Royal Alcázar on free admission days, buy groceries at local markets, and consider Couchsurfing for accommodation.

Learn the best seasons for exploration, grasp the intricacies of local transit, and grasp key safety tips while ensuring a trip replete with lasting impressions in this luminous Andalusian city.

Our Top 5 Things to Do and See in Seville

Photo by Shai Pal

Seville, a city with a rich tapestry of history and culture, offers a myriad of experiences that cater to the desires of any traveler.

From the stately elegance of Casa de Pilatos to the serene expanses of Parque de Maria Luisa, the Andalusian capital invites you to immerse yourself in its unique ambiance.

Whether you’re exploring the palatial grandeur of the Royal Alcázar, wandering through the evocative streets of the historic Jewish Quarter, or savoring the local flavors on a food tour, Seville’s top attractions promise to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.

1. Tour Casa de Pilatos

Within the heart of Seville’s historic quarter, Casa de Pilatos offers visitors a remarkable example of Spanish Renaissance and Mudéjar architecture.

This illustrious palace, a harmonious blend of cultural influences, stands as a testament to the city’s layered history and is a must-visit for those embarking on Seville travel.

As your Seville tour guide through its stately rooms and lush courtyards, you’ll feel the echoes of past nobility and the whispers of ancient tales.

Visiting Seville becomes an immersive journey into a world where art and history converge, providing a sense of liberation as you wander through this architectural gem.

The Casa de Pilatos is an essential highlight for any Seville Spain travel itinerary, promising an unforgettable experience in the soulful embrace of Andalusia.

2. Explore Parque de Maria Luisa

Photo by Freysteinn G. Jonsson

Parque de Maria Luisa, Seville’s principal green space, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and historical monuments.

This oasis within the heart of Sevilla is a testament to the city’s commitment to beauty and harmony, a must-see on any Seville vacation itinerary.

These experiences, deeply woven into Seville travel guides, are only a glimpse of what visiting Seville, Spain offers.

Each step through the park is a step toward freedom, a core value cherished in Sevilla Spain tourism.

Next, let’s transition from the natural to the regal, as we visit the Royal Alcázar.

3. Visit the Royal Alcázar

Photo by Rames Quinerie

Transitioning from the verdant expanses of Parque de Maria Luisa, the Royal Alcázar awaits as a testament to Seville’s rich history and architectural splendor.

A highlight of any trip to Seville, this royal palace is a symphony of cultural influences, showcasing the zenith of Andalusian artistry. Here are three pivotal experiences not to be missed:

• The Courtyard of the Maidens (Patio de las Doncellas) : A true embodiment of the Mudéjar style, its intricate stucco work whispers tales of long-ago monarchs.
• The Lush Gardens : Wander through a maze of greenery that offers a tranquil refuge from the hustle of Sevilla travel.
• The Hall of Ambassadors (Salón de Embajadores) : The ornate dome ceiling represents the universe, urging travelers to contemplate their place within it.

Every visit to the Royal Alcázar is a step back in time, a journey that enriches your Seville trip with unforgettable memories.

4. Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter

Continuing your exploration of Seville, immerse yourself in the timeless streets of the historic Jewish Quarter, a labyrinth of history where every turn reveals a story etched in stone.

As you wander, let the echoes of the past guide you through this once vibrant hub of the Sephardic Jews.

Your trip to Seville, Spain, wouldn’t be complete without feeling the pulse of centuries-old tales that still resonate within these walls.

Every step in the Jewish Quarter is a step back in time, a chance to savor freedom and the spirit of discovery on your journey through Seville.

5. Hunting for Delicious Foods and Cuisines in Seville

Photo by Lothar Boris Piltz

Seville’s culinary landscape offers an unforgettable journey for your taste buds, with a food tour being an essential experience to delve into the city’s gastronomic delights.

As you meander through bustling markets and quaint tapas bars, you’ll uncover the rich tapestry of flavors that define Andalusian cuisine.

Savor traditional dishes like gazpacho and pescaíto frito, a testament to Seville’s Moorish past and proximity to the sea.

Indulge in a variety of tapas, each a miniature masterpiece, showcasing local ingredients and the art of simple preparation. Learn from passionate food artisans who embody the spirit of Sevillian hospitality and culinary heritage.

This culinary voyage promises liberation not just for the palate, but for the soul.

Next, let’s explore other experiences that encapsulate the freedom and beauty of Seville.

12 Other Exciting Things to Do and See in Seville

Photo by Joan Oger

Beyond Seville’s quintessential attractions lies a tapestry of cultural and historical treasures that beckon the inquisitive traveler.

From the awe-inspiring gothic grandeur of the Catedral of Sevilla to the Renaissance elegance of Plaza de España, each site offers a unique window into the city’s soul.

Whether you’re admiring the intricate architecture of Iglesia de San Isidoro, exploring contemporary art, or uncovering the narratives of Spain’s colonial past, Seville promises an enriching experience for every type of explorer.

1. Visit the Catedral of Sevilla

Photo by Henrique Ferreira

Exploring the Catedral of Sevilla offers a journey through Gothic grandeur and religious history, standing as a must-visit monument in the heart of the city.

As the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, it encapsulates the spirit of Seville, where architectural magnificence meets the soul’s quest for beauty and freedom.

The Catedral beckons not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of the liberty to marvel at human achievement.

Climb the Giralda tower for panoramic views that promise a sense of boundlessness against the city’s skyline. Discover the tomb of Christopher Columbus, a testament to the human yearning for exploration and the unknown.

Embrace the serenity within the Patio de los Naranjos, an oasis that invites contemplative freedom amidst its fragrant orange trees.

In every stone and stained-glass window, the Catedral of Sevilla resonates with stories of past liberties and quests for knowledge, making it an essential experience for every free spirit visiting Seville.

2. Visit Plaza de España

Photo by David Vives

Often regarded as a quintessential landmark, the Plaza de España in Seville offers a breathtaking example of Renaissance Revival style in Spanish architecture and is a must-visit for any traveler.

Strolling along its crescent-shaped galleries, one feels transported to an era of grandeur and romance.

The plaza’s expansive space is perfect for those who seek both the freedom to explore and the opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Seville.

Each alcove along the wall presents a mosaic representing a different province of Spain, inviting visitors to embark on a visual journey across the country.

Whether you’re admiring the intricate craftsmanship, renting a rowboat to glide along the canal, or simply basking in the open air, the Plaza de España is a captivating escape within the heart of the city.

3. Visit the Iglesia de San Isidoro

Within walking distance from the Plaza de España, the Iglesia de San Isidoro offers visitors an intimate look at Seville’s rich religious heritage and architectural finesse.

This historical gem, nestled in the heart of the city, exudes a sense of serenity and timelessness that resonates with those who seek not just sights, but also insights on their journey.

The church’s understated elegance is a testament to the beauty of Seville’s spiritual tapestry.

• Historical Significance : Discover the layers of history embedded within its walls, from its Moorish roots to its Christian transformation.
• Artistic Masterpieces : Be captivated by the exquisite art that adorns the church, a reflection of Seville’s cultural depth.
• Quiet Reflection : Embrace the opportunity for personal contemplation, away from the bustle of tourist hotspots.

4. Go Admiring Some Contemporary Arts in Seville

Immersing oneself in Seville’s vibrant contemporary art scene offers a fresh perspective on the city’s cultural landscape.

The Andalusian capital, steeped in history, also pulses with modern creativity, manifest in spaces like the Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo (CAAC).

Housed in a former monastery and later a ceramics factory, the CAAC is a haven for art enthusiasts craving the innovative and the avant-garde.

Galleries like Delimbo Gallery and La Casa Sostoa offer captivating exhibitions of local and international artists that challenge and inspire.

As you wander through these hubs of artistic expression, you engage with a Seville that dialogues between its storied past and dynamic present.

Navigating through Seville’s contemporary art is just the beginning, as the city also beckons with tales of its historical significance.

Next, let’s delve into Spain’s colonial history to understand the roots that have shaped this enthralling region.

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5. Learn About Spain’s Colonial History

Photo by Chris Boland

Delve into Seville’s rich colonial past to uncover the city’s profound role in Spain’s global explorations and trade during the Age of Discovery.

Envisage the caravels departing from the bustling Guadalquivir riverbanks, laden with the promise of new worlds, forever altering the course of history.

• Archivo General de Indias : A treasure trove of priceless documents that narrates the epic tales of Spanish conquests and the intricate affairs of its colonial administration.
• Torre del Oro : Once a watchtower and prison, now stands as a silent witness to the wealth that flowed through Seville, originating from distant colonies.
• Casa de la Contratación : The heart of Spanish trade regulation, where the fates of new territories were decided over maps and maritime charts.

In these spaces, breathe the air of freedom that once propelled fearless voyagers into the unknown, and feel the weight of history in the city that connected worlds.

6. Visit the Flamenco Museum

While exploring Seville’s cultural offerings, be sure to visit the Flamenco Museum, a vibrant center dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Andalusia’s iconic dance form.

Nestled within the historic Santa Cruz district, this museum offers an immersive experience that connects you with the passionate soul of flamenco.

Through interactive exhibits, costumes, and personal stories of flamenco legends, you’ll gain an intimate understanding of this art that transcends mere performance—it’s a living tradition that pulses through the heart of Sevillian culture.

Engage with the museum’s dynamic offerings, like live shows and dance workshops, to feel the rhythm firsthand. For travelers seeking authentic connection, the Flamenco Museum isn’t just an attraction; it’s an entryway into the essence of Spanish freedom and expression.

7. Explore and Admire Fine Arts

Explore Seville’s artistic heritage by visiting the Museo de Bellas Artes, a treasure trove of European fine art housed in a former convent.

As you wander through the opulent halls, you’ll encounter masterpieces that whisper tales of Seville’s opulent past and the broader strokes of Spanish history.

The museum, a sanctuary of creativity, offers a contemplative escape from the city’s bustling streets.

It’s a place where art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the works of European masters, each painting offering a window to a different era.

• Discover the Baroque : Seville’s Golden Age is vividly captured in canvases adorned with dramatic light and shadow.
• Celebrate Local Masters : Uncover the legacy of Sevillian painters, who contribute a distinct voice to the world of fine art.
• Reflection and Inspiration : Allow the serene surroundings to fuel your imagination and awaken a deeper connection with the arts.

8. Take a Spanish Class to Learn Spanish and More of Its Cultures

Taking a Spanish class in Seville offers travelers the unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the local language and culture amidst the city’s historic charm.

Imagine being able to order tapas or ask for directions with the confidence of a local, turning every interaction into a chance to practice and improve your Spanish skills.

The city’s vibrant atmosphere provides an immersive learning environment that can’t be replicated by textbooks alone.

Seville’s array of language schools caters to all learning styles.

Whether you prefer one-on-one lessons or the dynamic of a group class, there’s a Spanish course waiting to unlock new levels of freedom in your travel experience.

9. Take in the View From the Top of a Mushroom

Photo by Tom Podmore

Why not elevate your Seville experience by ascending the Metropol Parasol, known locally as Las Setas, to enjoy panoramic city views?

This striking wooden structure, reminiscent of undulating mushrooms, offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, stretching out to the horizon.

It is a celebration of innovation, merging historical allure with avant-garde design, and serves as a symbol of Seville’s evolving identity.

• Unmatched Vistas : Stand above the city’s hustle and bask in the glow of the Andalusian sun as it sets, casting a golden hue over the rooftops.
• Architectural Marvel : Appreciate the intricate lattice work of one of the world’s largest wooden structures, a testament to contemporary engineering.
• Cultural Fusion : Feel the blend of modernity and tradition as you gaze upon centuries-old monuments and lively streets from an aerial vantage point.

In Las Setas, freedom takes on a new height—literally and metaphorically—granting travelers the liberty to witness Seville’s beauty from a fresh, elevated perspective.

10. Hang out in Alameda de Hércules

Continuing the theme of architectural wonders, Alameda de Hércules offers a vibrant contrast with its eclectic mix of bohemian ambiance, historical landmarks, and pulsing nightlife.

This rectangle of revelry is a social hub for those who seek the freedom to explore diverse cultural expressions.

Framed by Roman columns and peppered with orange trees, it’s a place where history brushes against the contemporary, inviting free spirits to wander and find their own rhythm.

By day, the Alameda district is ideal for leisurely café lounging or browsing quirky boutiques.

As evening descends, the area comes alive with the buzz of locals and travelers alike, each drawn to the magnetic energy of live music venues, tapas bars, and art galleries.

In Seville, Alameda de Hércules is synonymous with liberty – a space to embrace the city’s soul.

11. Relax on the Guadalquivir River

Photo by Taisia Karaseva

Few experiences in Seville are as tranquil as a leisurely boat ride or riverside stroll along the Guadalquivir River, a serene counterpoint to the city’s bustling streets.

The gentle lap of the water against the banks and the distant murmur of the city create a symphony of calm, inviting travelers to embrace a moment of peace.

The river’s embrace offers an escape, a chance to untether from the constraints of a timed itinerary and simply be present in the beauty of Seville.

• Kayak or Paddleboard : Glide across the water for a unique perspective of Seville’s architecture.
• Riverside Gardens : Discover lush greenery and secluded spots perfect for a leisurely picnic.
• Historical Bridges : Stroll across centuries-old bridges, each with a story to tell, connecting you to Seville’s rich past.

12. Take a bike tour

Seville’s bicycle tours offer an engaging way to navigate the city’s tapestry of historical landmarks and hidden gems, blending leisure with the thrill of discovery.

Cycling through the Andalusian capital, adventurers can feel the freedom of the open road coupled with the intimacy of its quaint neighborhoods.

Each pedal brings a new sight, from the grandeur of the Seville Cathedral to the charm of Barrio Santa Cruz. Experienced guides often share captivating tales that enrich the journey, making the cobblestone streets come alive with history and culture.

The breeze, the scents of orange blossoms, and the warmth of the sun complement the experience, creating memories that resonate with the essence of Sevillian life.

For the free-spirited traveler, a bike tour in Seville is not just a ride; it’s an exploration of liberty on two wheels.

Seville Travel Guide: Our Experiences in Seville Travel Costs

Photo by Born & Bred Creative

Understanding the range of travel expenses in Seville is essential to effectively budget for your Spanish adventure. Seville offers a multitude of experiences, but without careful planning, costs can escalate quickly.

To help you navigate your financial considerations with ease, here are some key expenses to keep in mind:

• Accommodation : Options vary from upscale hotels to charming hostels and budget-friendly Airbnbs.
• Dining : Indulge in tapas and local delicacies, which can be as affordable or lavish as you choose.
• Attractions : Many of Seville’s historic sites have entrance fees, but there are also plenty of free activities.

Seville’s allure lies in its ability to enchant visitors without demanding extravagance.

By prioritizing experiences and adopting a savvy spender’s mindset, you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture without the shackles of financial strain.

Opt for walking or cycling over taxis, enjoy picnics in picturesque parks, and seek out authentic experiences that are often priceless yet cost nothing.

As we pivot towards the topic of ‘backpacking Seville suggested budgets’, it is with the spirit of freedom and adventure that we consider how to sustainably explore the city’s cobbled streets and sunlit plazas without breaking the bank.

Our Budget Suggestions to Backpacking in Seville, Spain

How can backpackers maintain a frugal yet fulfilling itinerary in Seville? Here are some suggested daily budgets to consider.

Backpacking, after all, is not just about saving money; it’s about immersing oneself in the culture, discovering hidden gems, and creating memories without the burden of excessive costs.

Seville, with its rich history and vibrant street life, offers an array of experiences that don’t have to drain your wallet.

An insightful approach to budgeting allows for an exploration of Seville’s cobbled alleys, majestic architecture, and local taverns, where the true essence of Spanish life can be savored.

By allocating funds wisely, you can revel in the freedom that comes with discovering a new city on your own terms.

Below is a table that encapsulates the essence of backpacking in Seville, designed to evoke the emotions of wanderlust and the joy of traveling unfettered by financial constraints.

These ranges are meant to inspire, not limit. They echo the call of the open road, beckoning adventurers to live their Andalusian dream, with the wind of freedom at their backs and the promise of Seville’s charm ahead.

Seville Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Photo by Ellena McGuinness

To maximize the value of every euro spent, here are five practical tips for saving money while exploring the enchanting city of Seville.

Firstly, consider the timing of your visit. Seville’s peak tourist season runs from April to October, so travel outside these months can mean lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. Booking your stay and experiences well in advance can also secure you early-bird discounts.

Secondly, embrace the local dining culture. In Seville, it’s customary to enjoy tapas—small dishes that are often shared.

This can be a delicious and cost-effective way to sample a variety of local flavors without the price tag of a full-course meal. Moreover, avoid tourist-trap restaurants in favor of eateries where locals dine.

Lastly, leverage the city’s walkable nature. Seville’s compact historic center invites exploration by foot, negating the need for costly transportation. When distances are greater, public bikes or buses are an affordable alternative to taxis.

Tap into free attractions: Seville offers numerous parks, plazas, and even some museums with free entry, particularly on certain days.

• Purchase a Seville Card : If planning multiple museum visits, this card can offer significant savings.
• Stay in a barrio : Opt for accommodations in less tourist-centric neighborhoods for better deals.

Embodying the spirit of savvy travel with these tips not only saves money but also offers a more authentic experience of Seville’s vibrant culture and lifestyle.

Where to Stay in Seville

Having explored ways to save money on your visit, the next step in planning your Seville adventure is selecting the right accommodation to enhance your experience.

Hotel Plaza

Old Town, Seville

3 (1,272 reviews)

Le Petit Paris

4.22 (2,493 reviews)

Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville

5 (1,440 reviews)

Nine O Clock San Agustin Suites by Valcambre

4.22 (206 reviews)

One&Lux Byron Suites

4.22 (559 reviews)

Muralla Sevilla Suites By Lola

4.22 (609 reviews)

Apartamentos Abreu Suites

4.22 (1,471 reviews)

Dolium Apartments

Triana, Seville

4.22 (1,036 reviews)

AlohaMundi Castilla III

4.22 (31 reviews)

Tu casa duplex en Triana

4.22 (55 reviews)

The city offers a range of options, from charming boutique hotels nestled in the Santa Cruz neighborhood to luxurious stays near the grandeur of the Cathedral.

Seville’s accommodations cater to the free-spirited traveler, providing the perfect balance between comfort and autonomy.

Opting for an apartment in Triana, for instance, allows you to live like a local, with markets and flamenco bars just a stone’s throw away.

Here’s a table to simplify your choice:

Whether you’re looking to indulge in the city’s historic ambiance or seeking a more secluded spot, there’s a place for every taste and budget.

Keep in mind that the location you choose will also influence your exploration, as some areas are more walkable than others.

With your accommodation sorted, you’re all set to navigate the city with ease. Next, let’s delve into how to get around Seville, ensuring your travels are as smooth as they are memorable.

How to Get Around Seville

Photo by Cristian iordan

Navigating the vibrant city of Seville is a straightforward affair, with a variety of transportation options available to suit your preferences and itinerary.

Whether you’re meandering through the narrow streets of the historic center, exploring the lush gardens of Maria Luisa Park, or visiting the iconic Plaza de España, Seville’s transport network is designed to enhance your experience, offering freedom and accessibility across this picturesque city.

To traverse Seville with ease and autonomy, consider these modes of transport:

• Bicycle Rental : Seville’s flat topography and extensive network of bike lanes make cycling an enjoyable and efficient way to explore the city. Look for the Sevici bike-sharing scheme for short-term rental options.
• Public Buses and Trams : Take advantage of the comprehensive bus network or hop on the MetroCentro tram for a scenic and convenient ride to major attractions.
• Walking : Immerse yourself in the city’s charm by walking. Seville’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly zones allow you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Embrace the spirit of Seville by selecting the mode of transportation that best aligns with your sense of adventure.

Each option offers a unique perspective of this captivating city, ensuring your journey is as memorable as the destinations you seek.

When to Go to Seville

While Seville’s allure is year-round, the ideal time to visit is during the mild spring months when the city hosts its famous festivals and the weather is most conducive to outdoor activities.

The scent of orange blossoms fills the air, and the days are graced with a gentle warmth that invites leisurely exploration.

April is particularly vibrant, thanks to the Feria de Abril, a weeklong celebration that sees locals and visitors alike reveling in the joys of flamenco, tapas, and traditional parades.

Spring also means Semana Santa, an event that transforms the streets into a stage for solemn yet spectacular religious processions.

These unique cultural experiences are the soul of Seville, offering a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions that are as much a part of the city as its Gothic cathedral and the winding alleys of Santa Cruz.

For those seeking more freedom in their travel, the shoulder seasons of late fall and early winter present an attractive alternative. Crowds dwindle, and the crisp air breathes new life into the city’s historic plazas.

Whenever you choose to visit, Seville’s timeless charm ensures a journey that frees the spirit and captivates the heart.

How to Stay Safe in Seville

In Seville, prioritizing personal safety is straightforward with a few key precautions and an awareness of local practices.

This enchanting Andalusian city welcomes visitors with open arms, yet like any popular tourist destination, it’s essential to stay vigilant to ensure a trip that’s as secure as it is memorable.

Here are three pivotal tips to keep in mind:

• Be Streetwise with Valuables : Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas. Pickpockets can be a concern, so consider using a money belt or a cross-body bag that you can easily monitor.
• Embrace the Siesta Culture : Understand that the city slows down during siesta hours. Plan your itinerary accordingly, and be mindful that quieter streets, while charming, require extra attentiveness.
• Trust in Local Resources : Should you need assistance, the local police, known as ‘Policía Local,’ are generally helpful. Moreover, familiarize yourself with the location of your country’s embassy or consulate within the city.

The spirit of Seville is one of joy and liberation—capturing the hearts of those who wander its storied lanes.

By taking these simple yet effective measures, you’re free to fully immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this historic metropolis, secure in the knowledge that you’re well-prepared for a safe and extraordinary journey.

Seville Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

Photo by Matthew Waring

To ensure a seamless Seville experience, four indispensable booking resources are recommended for travelers seeking convenience and reliability.

These platforms not only simplify the planning process but also offer a sense of freedom, allowing you to tailor your journey to your personal tastes and preferences.

Imagine wandering through the cobbled streets, the scent of orange blossoms in the air, and the warm sun on your back, with all your plans just a click away. The right resources can turn this daydream into reality.

Here’s a quick guide to the best booking resources for your Seville adventure:

Each of these resources offers a user-friendly interface and customer support, ensuring that you can book with confidence and dedicate more time to savoring the anticipation of your upcoming travels.

Embrace the freedom to explore Seville your way, with the world at your fingertips.

In conclusion, Seville captivates with its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and rich Andalusian traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic energy by exploring its top attractions , enjoying diverse experiences, and utilizing cost-effective travel strategies.

Efficient transportation options and strategic visitation timing further enhance the travel experience. Adhering to safety guidelines ensures a secure journey.

Seville remains an unforgettable destination, offering an array of discoveries for the discerning traveler.

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A Chef (and Her Mom’s) Guide to Seville

Historic cathedrals, flamenco shows, and manchego cones..

Everyone knows that person who spends weeks sniffing around travel blogs, going deep into Tripadvisor rabbit holes, collecting Google docs from friends of friends, and creating  A Beautiful Mind –style spreadsheets to come up with the best  vacations  and itineraries possible. In this recurring series, we find those people who’ve done all the work for you and have them walk us through a particularly wonderful, especially well-thought-out vacation they took that you can actually steal.

Last spring, Alex Wight, owner of the seasonal restaurant Crown Jewel in Great Diamond Island, Maine , flew to southern Spain for her mom’s 70th birthday along with her two sisters and godmother. Everyone lives in different parts of the country, and they wanted to celebrate with an all-out vacation. They stayed in an apartment in the Santa Cruz neighborhood of Seville, their home for six days. And though they took two day trips during their time — one to coastal Cádiz and one to nearby Jerez — the majority was spent on two feet. “Outside of the Ubers to and from the airport, we were only in one other car,” Wight says. “We did an incredible amount of walking because everything is so accessible.”

As for the food, Wight says she usually picks where to travel and plans her vacations around eating at particular restaurants or visiting particular bars (that is her profession, after all). In Seville, though, “that was flipped on me,” she says. The city is full of pretty similar tapas menus, but “they’re all so, so good,” she says. “We were basically full of ham and cheese by the end of the week.”

9:30 a.m.: Grab breakfast churros at Bar El Comercio

I flew from New York to Lisbon and then Lisbon to Seville (the second flight you’re basically up and then down). I got an Uber at the airport and then we went as close to our Airbnb — a modern and minimal apartment in a very chic building in the Santa Cruz neighborhood — as I possibly could. We wanted a quiet place to convene and enjoy the best of Spain — wine, nuts, cheese, jamón, and bread. Having a kitchen to properly store these items and a beautiful balcony to relax on allowed us to maximize something we enjoy doing at any point during the day. And we picked Santa Cruz because it’s the heart of the city. You get the action without it feeling too loud, buzzy, or overwhelming. And it put us in close proximity to all of the places we wanted to visit. Many streets are so tiny and narrow that you aren’t guaranteed even a single car can go through them at a time. At some point, when we were close, the driver basically just told me to get out.

I met my mom, my sisters, and my godmother there. Our goal the first day was basically to stay up. After I dumped my bags, we went to Bar El Comercio ( C. Lineros, 9 ), which is somewhat iconic. They only serve churros with dark-chocolate dipping sauce, OJ, and coffee. It’s mostly standing room filled with lots of locals (though there’s a tiny room in the back where you can sit, too). It sort of opens up and spills out onto the street. They’re turning out things really quickly and you kind of work your way up to the long bar, and you have to use a loud voice to get your order in. I’ve never had orange juice like what they serve in my life. It was otherworldly — so fresh. The churros were superhot, and even though they’re fried, they’re so light and pillowy.

12:30 p.m.: Wander Plaza de España

From there we walked over to Plaza de España; the size and magnitude of it is really just astounding. It’s a bunch of buildings that surround canals and gardens. There are these sort of outdoor causeways on the sides of the buildings that have beautiful archways and Andalusian tiles. And there are flamenco dancers and bubble shows going on and boats in the canal that you can rent. It’s just very lively and buzzing. We meandered our way through and eventually made our way to Maria Luisa Park ( P.º de las Delicias ). By then it was midafternoon, so we went to Hotel Alfonso XIII ( C. San Fernando, 2 ) for wine and some tapas in its absolutely stunning inner courtyard. It feels very intimate because it’s in the middle of this building. It’s sort of an upscale, lovely place to sit. Then we went back to the house for a nap.

8 p.m.: Order tapas on Calle Mateos Gago

My sisters and I walked down to the Santa Cruz neighborhood in the heart of the city. The streets all curve and connect and there’s no rhyme or reason to them. And they’re just littered — in a positive way — with all of these tapas bars. The street Calle Mateos Gago has a lot in particular, and they all serve roughly the same menu: traditional-style tapas like tortilla española, patatas bravas, and albondigas. So we bopped around to a few different places — Bar Catedral Sevilla ( C. Mateos Gago, 5 ), Ovejas Negras Tapas ( C. Hernando Colón, 8 ), and Taberna Álvaro Peregil ( C. Mateos Gago, 22 ) — and had different plates.

11 a.m.: Visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville

After a breakfast of pan con tomate with jamón and more fresh orange juice at a spot near us called Filo ( C. Hernando Colón, 19 ), we walked to the Royal Alcazar ( Patio de Banderas, s/n ), which is essentially a Romanesque palace built over 500 years ago. We did buy tickets ahead of time for this. They actually filmed the fifth season of Game of Thrones in one of the rooms there. The tilework, again, is gorgeous, and there are these extensive gardens with peacocks. You can spend a lot of time walking around there.

When we finished in the early afternoon, we went to Bodega Santa Cruz ( C. Rodrigo Caro, 1 ) which is definitely more of a locals’ spot and has sort of a well-loved bar feel. The tapas menu was really all the same again, but there was more beer here than we had seen before. It’s standing-room only and there are people pouring out onto the street to eat at tall tables and around them, too. From there we went to this tiny ceramics store called Populart ( Pje. de Vila, 4 ). My godmother had done a deep dive and read about it. It’s crazy expensive, but they have the most beautiful bowls that are over 100 years old. On our way home in the afternoon we stopped at the shop Ines Rosales ( Pl. de S. Francisco, 15 ) very close to our Airbnb (they make those crackers — you’ve probably seen them here in the States) and stocked up on wine, cheese, crackers, cured meats, nuts, and olives and ate them on our balcony. Then we napped. For a group of people that are definite non-nappers, we embraced the siesta culture very quickly.

9 p.m.: Eat dinner at El Pintón

For dinner that night we went to El Pintón ( C. Francos, 42) , a more modern restaurant with a kind of soft and pleasing vibe — these sea-foam green chairs and a really light interior. They had a relatively traditional menu that had some twists, but we did get a big paella pan that we shared between all of us that had seafood in it. We had cocktails, too. I got a paloma with rosemary.

9 a.m.: Pick up manchego cones

The next day we did some shopping. Of all the places we went to, the one I would call out is a boutique called Isadora ( C. Don Alonso el Sabio, 9a ). It has clothing and bike helmets and notebooks — different stuff, but all very chic. We also went to a vintage-clothing store called Peninsula ( C. Puente y Pellón, 18 ) that could easily check off every item required for a grandma-chic aesthetic. There are all of these street vendors everywhere that sell cones filled with jamón and manchego, so we got those as we were walking around.

12 p.m.: Explore the food stalls at Mercado de Triana

Then we wandered over to the Mercado de Triana ( C. San Jorge, 6 ), a big food hall with everything you could possibly imagine. You can get fish, produce, nuts, jamón, and cheese, and everything is so fresh. We originally went to just walk through and see the bustling vibe, but we ended up buying some nuts and dried fruit and we re-upped our at-home jamón selection.

Then right underneath the market is this museum that was the headquarters and prison for the Spanish Inquisition. It’s honestly pretty heavy and depressing, but also kind of fascinating — just from an archeological perspective — to learn about how they were able to uncover and preserve what’s there.

1 p.m.: Visit a bull ring (but no bullfighting)

From there, about five minutes across the river, we walked through this neighborhood called Triana, which is known for its ceramic stores. It almost felt like a ceramic row. We meandered through narrow streets that were romantically gritty and passed shop after shop. Some felt more commercial than others. It was the smaller shops that carried loose tiles or were stuffed full and bursting with oversize planters that we spent the most time in. I found a trio of nesting bowls that I brought back and use daily.

In Triana, there’s a big bullfighting ring, the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla ( P.º de Cristóbal Colón, 12 ), where you can buy a ticket to go in even though we weren’t there during any bull runs. It’s still very worth it and wild to see — this huge kind of rustic interior. The capacity is 12,000 people. You can sit on the concrete stadium seat steps and walk around the pen. And then they have this little museum attached with matador clothing from 100 years ago. It’s so intricate: the beading, the silks that they used, the embroidery. Some of it still has blood on it, which is totally crazy. There’s also the little chapel space where they went to pray before they got in the ring.

After that was a stop in for more jamón and cheese (and a couple of other things) at Bar Casa Morales ( C. García de Vinuesa, 11 ), where they don’t have a lot of patience for you if you don’t speak Spanish (I only speak a little bit of Spanish), but we made friends with these five old Spanish men who helped us out.

5:30 p.m.: Catch a show at Museo del Baile Flamenco

After our siesta, we went to see a flamenco show at Museo del Baile Flamenco ( C. Manuel Rojas Marcos, 3 ), a spot close to our Airbnb. There are places all over you can go for this, but we chose it because it kept popping up from locals we were chatting to and because there’s a little museum attached. You’re tucked in one of those streets where cars can’t get through. There were probably about 75 people, so you’re close to the stage, and we were all sitting on folding chairs in an open courtyard. It was great — really fun and sensual. And then the museum part is on the second floor. They do have a lot of the old dresses but also tons of photos and a lot of history.

We got a quick drink after that and then headed to dinner at El Rinconcillo ( C. Gerona, 40 ), one of the most iconic spots in Seville because it’s over 350 years old but it’s been preserved so well. It opened in 1670. They serve traditional Andalusian cuisine and the waiters are older. They crack these silly jokes in English that they’ve learned along the way. It feels like a loud, celebratory spot. They serve a lot of seafood that’s really simply prepared and speaks for itself, like mussels served cold and super-sweet prawns dressed in just a little bit of citrus and salt and pepper.

10:30 a.m.: Take a day trip to Cádiz

The walk from our Airbnb to the train station was the longest one we did, about 35 minutes, and the train ride itself is about an hour and a half. It was super-comfortable, very clean, full of people.

Cádiz is on the coast, dotted with lots of watchtowers. People mostly go for the beach, but we weren’t really there during beach season, so we walked around La Viña, which is the traditional fisherman’s quarter. There are a lot of taverns and bars. We stopped in a cathedral, Catedral de Cádiz ( Pl. Catedral, s/n ), that has this crypt that you can go into — which sounds a little morbid, but it’s pretty cool.

2 p.m.: Order prawns for lunch

Then we went to lunch at a spot called El Faro de Cádiz ( C. San Félix, 15 ). It opened in 1946 and it’s still owned by the same family. And it’s kind of funny because it’s supposed to be fine dining — there are white tablecloths — but it still has a casual feel. The walls are plastered with family photos. It’s a heavy seafood menu, which is traditional there, so we ate a lot of fish. For one small guy, they just breaded and fried the whole thing — and again, there’s not a lot they need to do beyond making sure it’s seasoned properly because it’s just so fresh. We also had seafood meatballs and grilled prawns.

4 p.m.: Spend the afternoon wandering

After we ate, we walked to this fortress on the shore called San Sebastian ( P.º Fernando Quiñones s/n ). It’s basically just like a historic site and building, but you can walk far out into the sea on this jetty where there’s a lighthouse, which is very cool. The water was teal and the sand was so white; it’s just very beautiful and relaxed. We went into some stores selling espadrilles and cleaned up because they were like nine euros a piece. And then we stopped in Heladería Verde Pistacchio ( C. Ancha, 13 ), which sells ice cream and gelato. I got pistachio.

We were pretty exhausted by the time we got back, so we decided to have dinner at home — just more cheese and jamón and all those things.

11 a.m.: Climb the Seville cathedral bell tower

We went to the main cathedral in Seville, Catedral de Sevilla ( Av. de la Constitución, s/n ), which you should buy tickets for in advance. That place is nuts. It’s one of the largest churches in the world, and it has the longest nave of any cathedral in Spain. There are so many different rooms to wander into; it takes about two hours to see everything. The intricacies and ornateness of the architecture, the heavenly beauty of the multitudes of paintings, the remarkable number of apostles and figures carved into the ceilings, the impressive state of the artifacts like clothing and silver chalices — each room leads you into a different part of history. Then you can also buy tickets to climb the bell tower, which is a must. It doesn’t have stairs; it just winds and winds around and up, probably nearly 40 stories, until you reach the top, which has a stunning view where you can see (what feels like) the entire expanse of the city.

When we had thoroughly explored, we went to Casa Tomate ( C. Mateos Gago, 24 ) for lunch, which was just more classic tapas, and did a little boutique shopping at some spots near the cathedral in San Lorenzo Square.

9 p.m.: Eat dinner at Eslava

Dinner was at a spot called Eslava ( C. Eslava, 3 ). It’s pretty tiny, with a long bar and a few tables, and it gets packed. I would say they serve more elevated tapas — but still with a casual, hip vibe. We ordered grilled navajas (razor shell) with lemon and pork ribs roasted on rosemary honey for dinner. There was also a cooked cuttlefish special that was dynamite. The fish was so pure and fresh and really sung. It was very lightly grilled with a garlic chutney, lemon, and very light aioli.

But the thing that was lights-out good was the manchego ice cream for dessert. We ordered one and then literally ordered a second round — almost a third — after we ate the first. It had this very soft grittiness to it, if that makes sense, even though those are diametric opposites. And it was just the perfect combination of sweet but also salty, and those notes kind of melted together. I will dream about it for the rest of my life.

10 a.m.: Take a day trip to Jerez

Jerez is a bit closer than Cádiz, about an hour by train. When we arrived, we went to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art ( Av. Duque de Abrantes ) to see a show. Some of the best riders in the world come through there. The horses are super-well groomed, and they train them to prance and dance in time to the music. They’re playing this intense orchestral music the whole time. There was a guy selling snacks just like they do in stadiums in the States, and we ate some lovely candied pecans.

2 p.m.: Have lunch at Restaurante Albalá

For lunch we went to Restaurante Albalá ( C. Divina Pastora, s/n ), which, again, has more composed tapas — really delicious. We got a ton of stuff: lobster salad with a light and silky sherry-vinegar foam, super-fresh tuna tartare, Iberian pork balls with octopus, which were decadence in a ball. Perfectly salty and lots of umami undertones.

4 p.m.: Sip sherry at Bodega Tio Pepe

Our last stop in Jerez was a sherry tasting at Bodega Tio Pepe ( C. Manuel María González, 12 ), produced by Gonzalez Byass. They’re one of the largest producers in the world, so at first I was nervous it was going to be a big commercial operation — but the property is so lovely and so gorgeous. They take you on a little tram through it, and you get out and can see different parts along the way, like where they keep the barrels. There are orange trees and lemon trees, and everything is really highly manicured. Then you do a tasting of sherries that have been aged for different amounts of time. It was delicious.

Later in the afternoon, we took the train back to Seville, and I packed for my flight out the next day. We went back to Ines Rosales for dinner snacks: more jamón, more cheese.

Alex Wight’s Seville Packing List

This is the easiest piece of clothing to pack. You can dress it up or dress it down. And it’s so comfortable. Plus they have buttons around the waist that let you customize the size a bit — to take it in or out. Toward the end of the week, it was definitely have nice to have more room.

I don’t wear foundation or powder makeup, but I love this stuff, especially when traveling. It’s such a quick, easy way to put on sunscreen. It’s tinted, which is nice, but still SPF 50. But the best part is you don’t need to wash your hands before or after you put it on because they’re not touching your face.

I wore these every single day. You don’t sacrifice aesthetics for utility and comfort. They are the perfect all-season shoe.

The temperature fluctuation at that time of year is pretty big, about 20 degrees, so this was a great piece to have as a layer. Sometimes I wrapped it around my neck, other times it was a shawl. And it was easy to carry around if I wasn’t wearing it.

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