Seville is the largest city in the Spanish Andalusian province. It is an elegant city with a diverse range of sights and landmarks. The city is rich with Moorish heritage and this is evident from the colourful buildings to the palaces.
Get the most out of your upcoming trip with these 19 things to do…
MUST-DO
Alcazar of Seville
Alcázar Real de Sevilla is the Royal Palace of Seville. The complex Moorish palace is most picturesque and has many features such as the Patio de las Doncellas. It is by far the most famous Seville attraction, so prepare to be wowed. Interestingly, the Palace is still in use today by the Spanish King.
Note: The number of visitors per hour is limited, buy your tickets beforehand and turn up on time! You are also able to book a guided education and cultural tour to learn more about the Palace.
Plaza de Toros
How many times will you get to watch bulls fight in your life? Plaza de Toros is the place to tick this item off your bucket list. The bullring is the largest arena for bullfighting in Spain. The coliseum-like arena is so huge that it can fit up to 13,000 spectators. It is located in the El Arenal harbour district.
Museo Taurino is also located in Plaza de Toros. The ‘’Museum of bullfighting’ features a hall of paintings and is a great opportunity to learn more about the history of bullfighting.
Visit a Flamenco Show
Get your dancing shoes on! Experience Flamenco culture at an authentic show. Flamenco is based on folkloric music traditions originating from the south of Spain. The Andalusian art form integrates singing, dancing and music. Flamenco shows normally last for about an hour and a half. The district of Triana is the centre of Flamenco in Seville.
It’s vibrant, it’s bubbly, and you are sure to have so much fun.
Setas de Sevilla
Setas de Sevilla, also known as the ‘Mushrooms of Seville’ is a special wooden construction designed by the German architect Jürgen Maye. The construction was opened in 2011 and has a structure consisting of six parasols in the form of giant mushrooms. It stands in the Plaza de la Encarnación. On top of the parasols, there is a special walkway and a terrace which offers beautiful views of Seville.
A stroll across the Metropol Parasol is definitely a must-do while you’re here!
Feria de Abril
The Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) usually begins two weeks after the Semana Santa (Holy week). It then runs for a whole week (Saturday to Saturday). The yearly occurrence is not one to miss, Sevillians look forward to it as a marker of the new year to come. The fairground, which is known as ‘Real de la Feria’, covers 450,000m2 and is lit at every corner. The Fair is then concluded with an impressive fireworks display over the Guadalquivir River.
Eat, drink, dance, socialise or even enjoy a horseback ride – you will have an unforgettable time.
OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO
Plaza de España
Plaza de España is a grandiose semicircular public square. It was created for the Ibero-American exhibition of 1929 to symbolise peace with the former colonies. The Plaza de España is the most famous square in Seville and is located close to Maria-Luisa. It is nicknamed the Venice of Saville due to the fountains, canals, and footbridges.
At the square, you will find 52 benches and mosaics of Andalusian tiles that are used to represent all Spanish provinces.
Acuario de Sevilla
Who doesn’t love an aquarium? At Acuario de Sevilla, you will find Over 400 different species of marine life. The main tank, the Oceanario, is one of the largest shark aquariums in Europe, with a depth of more than 9 meters. Wander through the blue depths and venture from the Atlantic to the Amazon.
You can also have dinner at the aquarium and enjoy a delicious menu in the company of sharks.
Make sure you book beforehand as it tends to get really busy!
Royal Tobacco Factory
Seville’s Royal Tobacco Factory uncovers the once-booming tobacco industry in Seville. The city was once producing around 75% of the cigarettes consumed in Europe. The 18th-century stone building is now the headquarters of the rectorship of the University of Seville and some of its faculties. As one of the largest architectural buildings of its kind in Spain, the factory is a landmark to definitely visit.
The magnificent baroque entrance is sure to lure you in.
Magic Island Park
Parque Isla Magica is a theme park set on the site of the 1992 Expo in Seville. The park which opened in 1997, features many fun attractions such as roller coasters and both live and cinematic shows. There’s also a large lake at its centre, with seven themed areas which bring 16th-century colonial Spain to life. As the park slogan goes “Diversión sin límites”, which translates as “Fun without Limits”.
This is definitely something fun to do with the kids or even better allow your inner kid to roam free!
Maria Lusia Park
An enchanting park located in Seville’s main old quarter, Maria Luisa Park is the largest green space that you will come across on your trip. The park, which was originally part of the grounds of the San Telmo palace, is a beacon of peace. It oozes tranquillity and makes for a fascinating stroll under the shade as you discover unusual species from around the world.
Maria Lusia Park is right next to Plaza de España, so you can plan to visit both on the same day.
Cycle
Cycling is a big thing in Seville, and thanks to the city’s impressive cycle paths, it is a safe but also fun activity to do. As the landmarks are reasonably spaced, it is easy to get from A to B, so depending on your itinerary that day, you could possibly get to many of the famous attractions.
You can rent a bike for yourself, or book a Seville bike tour and experience the city on the move.
Basílica de la Macarena
Basílica de la Macarena is Catholic church known for housing the Virgin of Hope statue (Virgen de la Esperanza). The wooden Virgin Mary statue attracts hundreds of visitors every year even though it is not situated in the main tourist area of Seville. The church is also the seat of the homonymous Holy Week brotherhood. The procession which takes place early in the morning of Good Friday is one of the largest in the whole of Spain.
The area is lovely, and the interior is beautifully decorated in marble of various colours, honestly, it’s worth a visit.
Torre del Oro
The Torre del Oro is Seville’s 12-sided landmark. The tower which is found on the Guadalquivir River stands 36 metres high and is also known as the Golden Tower. Once a military watch tower, it was used to control shipping on the Guadalquivir. The Torre del Oro now houses a small naval museum which narrates the naval history of Seville. The museum is split into two floors of exhibits.
If you’re not really interested in history, still visit Torre del Oro to enjoy the excellent views from the top of the tower.
Catedral de Santa María de la Sede
Seville’s Cathedral is the third largest church in the world. Built on the site where a Moorish mosque once stood, the cathedral is 127 metres long, 83 meters wide and 43 meters high. Inside the Cathedral, you can admire many paintings by Goya, Pedro de Campaña and Luis de Vargas. The La Giralda is the tower of the mosque that was preserved. At 104 meters high, you can climb the Giralda Tower for great views over the city centre. On top of the Giralda Tower, you will also find a bronze statue. This statue which represents faith is nicknamed the Giraldillo.
Note: The Seville cathedral has long queues, so you may want to book online beforehand.
Santa Cruz
Barrio de Santa Cruz is the former Jewish quarter of Seville. You can find it in Seville’s old town. Wander through the maze-like streets and alleys and take in the colourful neighbourhood. Many sought-after landmarks are also located here, places such as the Royal Alcazar and Seville’s Cathedral.
This is the main tourist area in Seville so there are many restaurants to choose from.
Triana
The Triana neighbourhood is on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River. Triana is most well known for its painted ceramics and flamenco. It is lively and fun and really worth visiting for its excellent restaurants. For a great addition to your trip, make sure to stop at the Triana Market, located near the Isabel II Bridge and get a local taste of Seville with the fresh produce that you will find. Also, pop into one of the many tile and ceramics shops for authentic azulejos tiles.
Definitely add Triana to your list for a more authentic experience of Seville.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts of Seville is definitely a place to marvel at. The Museo de Bellas Artes which was created in 1835 was originally home to the convent of the Order of the Merced Calzada de la Asunción. It is now a wonderful museum which displays a selection of works by a range of Spanish artists such as Murillo and El Greco. The collection of visual arts dates from the medieval period to the early 20th century.
Book a tour today and experience one of the most impressive art collections outside of the capital.
Romeo and Juliet Balcony
Alongside the Alcazar, you will find the Calle Agua. This covered passageway then brings you to the Plaza Alfaro which is where the balcony is located. As it is said to have inspired the balcony scene in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this place is always bustling with tourists.
Even if the story behind the balcony is mildly far-fetched, it’s free to see and beautifully romantic, so make it a trip all the same!
Go to Ronda
For a great day trip, why not go to Ronda? Ronda is a beautiful village located about 1h 45 minutes from Seville by car. The rocky hills found all over the village offer exquisite views of the surrounding valleys. The Puente Nuevo bridge is also a popular landmark here as it links the two parts of the town together. Explore Ronda and take in new views.
If you do not want to drive or have not rented a car, it is possible to book a guided day trip to Ronda.
