Visiting Seville: what are the best things to see and do in Seville?
Sevilla is the kind of city that people fall in love with on their first trip. To visit Seville is to encounter Europe’s sunniest city, which conjures up images of medieval castles and alleyways, sun-drenched squares and orange blossom, not to mention the art of flamenco and tapas. This city in southernSpain boasts a rich Moorish heritage and spoils visitors to theAndalusia region with its food, beauty and pace of life.
To help you organize your stay, discover the must-sees in Seville, the « Pearl of Andalusia »!
1. Seville Cathedral and La Giralda
If you’re wondering what to do in Seville in terms of historical monuments, head for the Cathedral and Giralda! If these two symbols need no introduction, it’s because they almost single-handedly characterize the power of Seville’s heritage.
Formerly Islamic, the Cathedral was originally a mosque before being transformed into one. Powerful and imposing, it reigns over the city as the third largest church in the world, after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. In addition to its superb architecture, the monument is also home to an incredible cultural heritage: a collection of goldsmiths’ and silversmiths’ wares, paintings and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
The Giralda, meanwhile, further enhances the setting. Formerly the minaret of the mosque, it now serves as the cathedral’s bell tower. Almost 100 metres high, it dominates the city and offers a breathtaking view of the Andalusian capital. One of the reasons why the view is so breathtaking is that it has to be earned! There are many steps to climb before you reach the panorama, but one thing’s for sure: if there’s any comfort after the effort, it’s the one waiting for you up there!
2. The Alcazar
Once again, its name speaks for itself. Another symbol of Seville, just a stone’s throw from the General Archives of the Indies, which we also recommend you visit, is the Alcázar Palace, a unique sight in the world.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it tells the story of one of the world’s oldest royal palaces, with its cosmopolitan culture and styles. A breathtaking heritage that will captivate you from floor to ceiling, right down to the sumptuous gardens on site. Improbable and breathtaking, the Alcázar promises a true interlude through time that your eyes won’t soon forget!
3. Plaza de España and Parque María Luisa
Photo credit: Flickr – Jorge Franganillo
Spectacular, grandiose, splendid… Elogated since its birth in 1929, the Plaza de España is one of Seville’s most beautiful squares, if not the most beautiful, originally built for the Ibero-American Expo.
From its unmistakable hemicycle to its superb earthenware-tiled benches representing all the Spanish provinces, its treasures beckon you to take a trip back in time to the history of the Iberian Peninsula. In addition to its architectural heritage, the square is also a cult site for fans of a famous saga! And with good reason: it was the filming location for Star Wars Episode II and Lawrence of Arabia. serving as the setting for the planet Naboo.
The Parque María Luisa is just across the street. A favorite of tourists and locals alike, it’s the place to be for a stroll in the shade, a place of refuge on the hottest days. A veritable green lung, the Parc María Luisa is none other than the city’s most famous garden: a success that has earned it the title of « Asset of Cultural Interest ». As you can see, it would be a shame to visit Seville without seeing this little gem! During your stroll, take in the Fountain of the Frogs and the little duck island, before moving on to the Plaza de las Palomas (Plaza de América), home to the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, the Archaeological Museum of Seville and the Royal Pavilion. Spectacle guaranteed!
4. Santa Cruz
Photo credit: Flickr – Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie
How about diving into the heart of Andalusian culture? An essential part of your stay, the historic district of Santa Cruz enjoys a certain reputation. And with good reason: once you’ve entered its narrow streets, you’ll know what you’re in for. Immerse yourself in this typical area, where Andalusian patios, sun-dappled houses and small gardens are alive with the murmur of fountains. As you stroll through the shady passageways, let the sweet scent of orange blossom guide you through this labyrinth of treasures.
More information about visiting Santa Cruz
5. Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza
Photo credit: Flickr – Joe Lin
Whatever your feelings about bullfighting, the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is well worth a visit, if only to appreciate the baroque façade of the bullring. Nicknamed the » Catedral del Toreo » ( Cathedral of Bullfighting), it is owned by the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (translated as the « Royal Cavalry of Seville »), an organization that dates back to 1248. A veritable local institution, the Maestranza boasts a superb ochre-sand setting, coiled in a 12,000-seat arena that has been perpetuating tradition for centuries. Beneath the bleachers is a small museum retracing the history of bullfighting, and featuring a number of collector’s items.
6. Local specialities
Photo credit: Facebook –
El Rinconcillo
As you’ve already guessed, a visit to Seville is all about the local cuisine. Seriously extraordinary, Seville’s cuisine is not only a real treat for the palate, it’s also affordable! To discover the culinary culture of Andalusia, we recommend you seek out a few tapas bars where you can order a variety of tasty dishes. From croquetas to patatas bravas and lomo, discover the city at its best! For an original visit, you can opt for a tapas bar tour or, even better, a local cooking class to reproduce Seville’s best dishes at home.
7. Triana
The cradle of flamenco, born on the banks of the Guadalquivir, Triana invites you to live the bohemian life. Authentic and warm, its name is increasingly echoed by visitors, who, seduced by its atmosphere, make it one of the city’s must-sees.
What to do in Seville, in this fashionable district? Stroll, stroll, it all starts here in Triana. Let yourself be carried away by » slow travel « : don’t look at your watch or set yourself a predefined timetable, just enjoy. From the colorful houses to the authentic cafés along the canal, from the charming boutiques to the local market ( with the possibility of a visit and tasting), discover a place that’s sure to make you fall in love… Lose yourself in the shady alleyways and let yourself be guided by the notes of flamenco, the neighborhood’s DNA. Enjoy a drink on the terrace while listening to a guitarist or, for the more passionate, take in one of the area’s flamenco shows!
8. Casa de Pilatos
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons – Benjamín Núñez González
A visit to Seville also means enjoying the wealth of its aristocracy. After the Alcazar, extend your aristocratic visit by heading for Casa de Pilatos. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, this superb residence (surprisingly discreet in tourist guides) dazzles with its elegance and finesse. A true architectural and traditional jewel, the Casa de Pilatos portrays a place marked by Mudejar, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its azulejos, gardens, galleries, patios, murals and sumptuous decor immerse you in a veritable work of art.
9. Metropol Parasol
Photo credit: Flickr – Gerben van Heijningen
It’s an extraordinary monument. If you’re still wondering what to do in Seville, make a detour to the Metropol Parasol. A UFO architectural feat, this 28-metre-high wooden structure was built by a Berlin architect to rehabilitate the Plaza de la Encarnacion. Fascinatingly nicknamed the « Setas de la Encarnacion » (Mushroom of the Incarnation), it intrigues by its strangeness and has long been the subject of controversy, precisely because of its extravagance (financial and architectural), which clashes with the local heritage.
Nevertheless, the Metropol Parasol boasts a superb panorama of the city that’s well worth the detour. Take advantage of your walk to visit the local market and the archaeological museum.
10. Seville Aquarium
Photo credit: Flickr – J VB
Young and old alike will love theSeville Aquarium. Home to a wide variety of species, the Seville Aquarium is a plunge into marine culture, witness to Magellan’s two-year voyage to the Moluccan Islands in 1519. The 35 tanks and several thousand cubic metres of water invite you to discover exceptional flora and fauna. The Seville Aquarium is also, and above all, Europe’s largest shark aquarium, so make the most of your exploration to observe the most beautiful specimens!
Good to know: the site is free for children under 4.
11. Seville’s nightlife
And what about partying? What can you do in Seville if you want to enjoy the nightlife? Renowned for its nightlife, the Andalusian capital promises many a sleepless night if you like to stay out until the early hours of the morning! From tapas bars and restaurants to the city’s various shows and clubs, get into the Andalusian rhythm! To find out where to go out, check out our article on nightlife in Seville, which promises you a taste of the local fever…
How to get to Seville
Seville is just a two-hour flight away! Many airlines offer flights from several French cities to the Andalusian capital. Prices are attractive, and the route is direct: you’ll find the cheapest flight on the website of our partner Ulysse.
Once there, all you have to do is get to the center of Seville. There are two options:
– In the first instance, you opt for an EA (especial aeropuerto) shuttle bus, which will take you to the heart of Seville in just 35 minutes. The fare is €4 for a shuttle every 20-25 minutes.
– Another alternative is to rent a car. Your main ally if you want to enjoy Seville and the surrounding area, the car is popular with tourists, especially families, who want to discover more while enjoying greater freedom of movement. There are plenty of agencies to choose from, and you can rent a car as soon as you arrive at the airport.
Where to stay in Seville
The neighborhoods where you can stay in Seville offer different atmospheres, and there’s something for everyone: authentic, lively, historic… Whatever your criteria, one thing’s for sure: you’ll find what you’re looking for in Seville. The hotels on offer are equally diverse and varied (take a look at this hotel comparator to find the best deals), but you can also find a nice pied-à-terre on Airbnb (there are some superb rare gems) or find a room in one of the youth hostels with their famously warm welcome!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Seville,es