best things to do in seville spain

best things to do in seville spain

Seville, the sun-drenched capital of Andalusia, captivates visitors with its blend of Moorish architecture, vibrant culture, and passionate flamenco traditions. As someone who has wandered its narrow medieval lanes and grand plazas countless times, I’m excited to share the city’s most remarkable experiences. Here’s your definitive guide to Seville’s top attractions that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. The Royal Alcázar of Seville

The Alcázar stands as Spain’s most spectacular example of Mudéjar architecture and the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Originally built by Moorish rulers, later Christian kings expanded this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens, intricate tile work, and lush courtyards. Don’t miss the Ambassador’s Hall with its magnificent gold-domed ceiling or the peaceful Mercury Pond in the gardens.

Insider tip: Book tickets online at least a day in advance to avoid the notorious queues, especially during peak season.

2. Cathedral of Seville & La Giralda

This colossal Gothic cathedral holds the distinction of being the world’s largest medieval Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church globally. Inside, you’ll find Christopher Columbus’s tomb, the breathtaking gold altarpiece, and numerous chapels filled with precious artworks.

The adjoining La Giralda bell tower, once a minaret, offers panoramic views across the city. Instead of stairs, the tower features 35 gently sloping ramps originally designed for horseback access.

3. Plaza de España

This architectural masterpiece, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, combines Renaissance and Moorish revival styles into a spectacular half-circle complex. The plaza features 52 ceramic-tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces, a moat where you can rent small boats, and striking bridges symbolizing the ancient kingdoms of Spain.

Best time to visit: Early morning or around sunset when the light creates magical reflections on the ceramic tiles.

4. Barrio Santa Cruz

The former Jewish quarter of Seville has evolved into the city’s most charming neighborhood. Get deliberately lost among the labyrinthine cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with flower-filled balconies, and hidden plazas where orange blossoms perfume the air. The area comes alive at night when tapas bars overflow with locals and visitors alike.

5. The Metropol Parasol (Las Setas)

This controversial yet mesmerizing modern wooden structure, nicknamed “The Mushrooms,” has become a beloved landmark since its completion in 2011. The undulating wooden installation features an archaeological museum below, a market at street level, and a winding walkway above offering spectacular city views.

Don’t miss: The sunset view from the rooftop terrace while enjoying a refreshing drink.

6. Parque de María Luisa

Seville’s principal green space provides a refreshing retreat from the Andalusian heat. This botanical paradise features Mediterranean plants, ornate fountains, pavilions, and ponds where swans glide peacefully. The park surrounds several museums, including the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Arts and Traditions.

7. Watch an Authentic Flamenco Performance

Experience the raw emotion and technical brilliance of Spain’s most iconic art form in its spiritual home. For authentic performances, head to La Carbonería, Casa de la Memoria, or one of the traditional peñas flamencas where locals gather. The combination of passionate singing, hypnotic guitar, rhythmic hand-clapping, and explosive dancing creates an unforgettable emotional experience.

8. Torre del Oro

This 13th-century military watchtower on the Guadalquivir riverbank gets its name (“Tower of Gold”) from the golden reflection it once cast on the water. Today, it houses a small naval museum chronicling Seville’s maritime history and offers panoramic views from its top.

9. Triana Neighborhood

Cross the Isabel II Bridge to discover Seville’s former gitano (Roma) quarter and traditional pottery center. Triana maintains its distinctive identity with colorful façades, lively tapas bars, and a passionate flamenco tradition. Visit the ceramics shops, explore the bustling Triana Market, and enjoy the riverside promenade with views back toward central Seville.

10. Hospital de los Venerables

This 17th-century baroque gem once served as a hospital for elderly priests. Today, it houses a cultural center with a stunning central courtyard, ornate church, and important collection of paintings, including works by Velázquez and Murillo. The building itself is a masterpiece with its marble columns, azulejo tiles, and frescoed ceilings.

11. Casa de Pilatos

This architectural jewel blends Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles in perfect harmony. Built in the 15th century, the palace features spectacular patios, intricate plasterwork, classical statuary, and some of Seville’s finest azulejos (ceramic tiles). The upper floor remains the duke’s residence, while the ground floor is open to visitors.

12. Seville Museum of Fine Arts

Housed in a former convent, this museum holds Spain’s second most important art collection after Madrid’s Prado. The focus is on the Seville School, with masterpieces by Zurbarán, Murillo, and Valdés Leal. The building itself is worth admiring, with its peaceful courtyards and elegant architecture.

13. Archive of the Indies

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this 16th-century building houses millions of documents relating to Spain’s American empire. While the archives themselves are restricted to researchers, the magnificent Renaissance building and regularly changing exhibitions provide fascinating insights into Spain’s colonial era.

14. Isla Mágica Theme Park

Perfect for families, this themed attraction recreates the adventure of Spain’s discovery of the Americas. Seven themed areas offer thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertaining shows. During summer, the adjacent Agua Mágica water park provides welcome relief from the heat.

15. Take a River Cruise

Gain a different perspective of Seville from the waters of the Guadalquivir River. Various cruises operate throughout the day, offering views of landmarks that once made Seville Spain’s only inland port with access to the Atlantic. Some evening cruises include dinner and flamenco performances.

16. Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

Whether you approve of bullfighting or not, this 18th-century bullring offers important cultural insights. The guided tour explains the history and traditions surrounding this controversial spectacle and includes access to the small bullfighting museum with its collection of historic costumes and posters.

17. Palacio de las Dueñas

This 15th-century palace belonging to the House of Alba offers a glimpse into aristocratic life. Famous for its beautiful patios filled with fragrant flowers, the palace houses an impressive art collection including works by Goya. Poet Antonio Machado was born here, adding literary significance to its already considerable charms.

18. Mercado de Triana

Experience local culinary culture in this vibrant market built above the ruins of the Castle of San Jorge. Browse stalls selling fresh produce, sample tapas at the small bars, or purchase authentic Andalusian products. The market’s modern interior respects its historical location with displays about the building’s past.

19. CAAC Contemporary Art Center

Housed in a former monastery-turned-ceramic factory, this cutting-edge museum showcases Andalusian and international contemporary art. The juxtaposition of avant-garde installations against the historic building creates a thought-provoking experience.

20. Alameda de Hércules

This long, tree-lined boulevard has transformed from Seville’s first public garden into the epicenter of the city’s alternative scene. By day, children play in its open spaces; by night, it buzzes with bohemian bars, international restaurants, and LGBTQ+ venues.

21. Day Trip to Italica

Just 9 km from Seville lie the impressive Roman ruins of Italica, birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian. The well-preserved amphitheater once seated 25,000 spectators, while intricate mosaics offer glimpses into Roman domestic life. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as the Dragonpit in King’s Landing.

22. Basilica de la Macarena

Visit the spiritual home of Seville’s most venerated Madonna, La Esperanza Macarena. The basilica houses this extraordinarily ornate statue, which plays a central role in Seville’s famous Holy Week processions, along with related religious artifacts and procession items.

23. Palacio de Lebrija

This elegant mansion houses one of Spain’s best private collections of Roman antiquities, including spectacular mosaics incorporated into the floors. The upper floors showcase an impressive array of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts from various periods.

24. Enjoy Tapas Hopping

Seville remains one of Spain’s best cities for tapas. Follow locals from bar to bar, sampling specialties like salmorejo (cold tomato soup), espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas), and carrillada (slow-cooked pork cheek) paired with Andalusian wines or locally brewed Cruz Campo beer.

25. Experience Holy Week (Semana Santa)

If you visit during Holy Week, witness one of Spain’s most spectacular religious festivals. Brotherhood processions carrying elaborate floats wind through the streets day and night, accompanied by haunting saetas (flamenco prayers). Book accommodation well in advance for this unforgettable cultural experience.

Seville rewards those who take their time, so don’t rush. Allow yourself moments to simply sit in a plaza, savoring coffee or sherry while watching local life unfold. It’s in these unplanned moments that the true magic of Seville reveals itself.