- Travel Enthusiast
- Jun 29
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 18
THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SEVILLE - SPAIN
Seville has a way of drawing you in with its mix of history, color, and energy – a true reflection of Andalusia’s vibrant spirit. Grand palaces, quiet courtyards, buzzing tapas bars, and flamenco rhythms all come together to create a city full of life and character.
This guide highlights 10 of the best things to do in Seville, Spain – an ideal starting point for discovering the city’s most iconic sights, cultural experiences, and hidden corners.
Want to make the most of your time? We’ve also created a day-by-day Seville itinerary that brings together all the highlights – perfect for planning your trip.
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EXPLORE THE ROYAL ALCÁZAR
The Royal Alcázar is one of Seville’s most visited attractions and a clear must-see for first-time visitors. It’s known for striking Mudéjar tilework, Renaissance additions, and expansive gardens where peacocks wander. Inside, rooms and courtyards reflect centuries of Moorish and Christian influences. Fans of Game of Thrones will also recognize it as the Water Gardens of Dorne, with scenes filmed in its ornate courtyards and gardens.
The gardens are a highlight in their own right, with shaded walkways, fountains, and quiet corners that offer a break from the busy palace rooms.
Tip 1: Visit in the morning at opening time (9:30 am) to avoid the biggest crowds. Tickets and guided tours are best booked online in advance. Don’t skip the gardens – they’re often less crowded and well worth exploring at a slower pace.
Tip 2: If you also plan to visit the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower after the Alcázar, consider booking a combined guided tour that covers all three to save time and money.
VISIT SEVILLE CATHEDRAL & CLIMB LA GIRALDA
Seville Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, built over the remains of a mosque to demonstrate the city’s growing power. Its vast interior features towering columns, richly decorated chapels, a huge gilded altarpiece, and the impressive tomb of Christopher Columbus, making it one of the largest and most ornate cathedrals in the world.
Next to it stands La Giralda, once a 12th-century minaret transformed into a bell tower after the Reconquista. Its unique ramped climb (no stairs!) was designed for horseback riders and leads to panoramic views over the city’s rooftops.
Tip 1: Visit early in the day or late afternoon for softer light and fewer tour groups. Booking tickets and guided tours for the Cathedral and Giralda Tower is the best way to avoid queues and ensure your preferred time, especially during busy periods and weekends.
Tip 2: Planning to see the Alcázar as well? Consider booking a combined guided tour that includes the Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and Alcázar to save both time and money.
ADMIRE PLAZA DE ESPAÑA
Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, Plaza de España is a grand semi-circular square known for its elegant curves, tiled bridges, towering structures, and ornate canal. Each of the alcoves along the curve represents a different Spanish province, featuring colorful ceramics that tell its story and add to the square’s vibrant character.
You can see locals rowing boats along the canal or relaxing on the steps. It’s free to visit and located within the larger Parque de María Luisa, which offers shaded paths and quiet corners perfect for a stroll. While Plaza de España itself doesn’t have formal flamenco shows, you’ll often find street performers dancing here, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Tip: For the best chance of seeing street flamenco performances, visit in the late afternoon or early evening when the square is busier and local dancers often set up to entertain the crowds.
RELAX IN PARQUE DE MARÍA LUISA
One of Spain’s most beautiful urban parks, Parque de María Luisa is a green, leafy escape from Seville’s heat and busy streets. Originally part of the San Telmo Palace gardens, it was redesigned for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and is full of wide, shaded paths lined with palms, orange trees, and colorful flowers.
You’ll also find hidden statues, quiet corners with pergolas, and grand avenues lined with colorful ceramic details. Don’t miss Plaza de América with its grand museums and beautifully landscaped gardens, or the smaller paths where peacocks wander freely. It’s an ideal place for a slow walk, reading in the shade, or a quiet picnic after visiting the nearby Plaza de España.
Tip: It’s free to enter and best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler and quieter. Bring water, sunscreen, and a snack if you plan to linger, and give yourself time to explore the different paths, gardens, and hidden corners.
EXPERIENCE A FLAMENCO SHOW
Flamenco isn’t just a show in Seville, it’s an essential part of the city’s cultural heart. Raw, emotional, and rhythmic, these performances bring together singers, dancers, and guitarists in intimate settings that vibrate with energy.
Venues like Casa de la Memoria keep things traditional and atmospheric, with small audiences and excellent acoustics. Expect stamping heels, clapping hands, and the haunting wail of cante jondo filling the space.
Tip: Flamenco shows in Seville usually begin in the early evening, with most tablaos and venues offering performances around 6:00 pm and 7:30–9:00 pm, and occasionally a later session at 10:30 pm. Booking tickets in advance is especially important on weekends when shows can sell out. Try to arrive early to get the best seats, as many places have open or unreserved seating.
CLIMB THE METROPOL PARASOL ("LAS SETAS")
Built above Plaza de la Encarnación, the Metropol Parasol – known locally as Las Setas (“The Mushrooms”) – is a striking modern landmark made of flowing wooden panels. This massive canopy stands out from Seville’s historic skyline and offers a completely different perspective on the city.
You can take the elevator to the top and follow winding walkways that provide panoramic views of rooftops, church domes, and the distant hills. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time, as the city lights begin to glow and the structure’s curves catch the warm evening colors.
Tip: For the best experience, plan your visit around sunset to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful views as the city lights come on. It’s the most popular time of day and capacity at the top is limited, so consider booking tickets online in advance if you’re visiting in the evening.
TAKE A BOAT TOUR ON THE GUADALQUIVIR RIVER
A boat tour along the Guadalquivir is one of the easiest ways to see Seville from a new angle. Cruises pass landmarks like the Torre del Oro, historic bridges, and the colorful facades of Triana, giving you a different perspective on the city.
Tours typically last one to two hours, with commentary in multiple languages explaining the history of the river and its role in Seville’s past. It’s a comfortable option – especially welcome on hot afternoons or for a scenic break between sightseeing stops.
Tip: Boats depart regularly from the dock near the Torre del Oro. You’ll find sightseeing, eco-friendly, and dining cruises. Evening departures are especially beautiful as the city lights reflect on the water. Booking ahead is recommended.
GO ON A TAPAS CRAWL
Eating out in Seville is all about taking your time and enjoying the social ritual of going from bar to bar for small plates and drinks. Typical choices include espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas), salmorejo (a thick, chilled tomato soup), and montaditos (small sandwiches). You’ll also find classics like tortilla española, grilled prawns, and croquetas.
Neighborhoods like Santa Cruz, Arenal, and Alfalfa are full of lively tapas bars ranging from historic taverns with tiled walls and hams hanging over the counter to stylish, modern spots putting creative spins on traditional recipes. It’s not just about the food, it’s also a chance to experience the lively atmosphere and Seville’s vibrant culinary culture.
Tip: Head out after 8 pm when the city really comes alive. Don’t order everything at once – start with a drink and a tapa or two before moving on. If you would like extra help navigating the best spots, you can also join a guided tapas crawl to explore popular bars and hidden local favorites.
CROSS INTO THE TRIANA NEIGHBORHOOD
Cross the historic Puente de Triana over the Guadalquivir River to explore one of Seville’s most characterful neighborhoods. Traditionally a working-class district with deep roots in flamenco and ceramics, Triana has a strong local identity and a distinct feel from the city center.
Wander along Calle Alfarería to browse colorful ceramic workshops and studios that carry on centuries-old traditions. Visit Mercado de Triana, a lively covered market where stalls sell fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local tapas – perfect for an authentic snack stop. The area is also home to historic chapels and flamenco peñas where you can see intimate performances.
Tip: End your visit at a riverside bar or terrace along Calle Betis, famous for its views across the river to the illuminated towers and churches of central Seville. Watching the sunset here with a drink in hand is one of the city’s best simple pleasures.
VISIT THE TORRE DEL ORO
A 13th-century riverside watchtower built by the Almohads, the Torre del Oro once formed part of Seville’s defensive walls and controlled access to the busy port. Its name (“Tower of Gold”) comes from the golden glow of its outer materials, which once reflected in the river. The tower played a key role in protecting the wealth flowing in from the Americas during Spain’s imperial period.
Inside, you’ll find a small Naval Museum featuring scale models of ships, old navigational instruments, maps, and exhibits on Seville’s important role in Atlantic trade. The displays are modest but give good context to the city’s maritime past.
Climb the narrow staircase to the rooftop terrace for excellent views over the Guadalquivir River, the historic bridges, and Seville’s skyline, including La Giralda in the distance. The tower is a popular stop for photos and a nice break during a riverside walk.
Tip: Tickets are sold at the entrance and cost €3. It’s open most days until evening but closed on Mondays. You can combine your visit with a walk along the river promenade or a short boat cruise that departs nearby.
START YOUR ADVENTURE
These 10 best things to do in Seville, Spain will help you get to know one of Andalusia’s most captivating cities. From historic palaces and peaceful courtyards to lively markets and scenic river views, there’s plenty to see and experience. Flamenco music, local food, and beautiful architecture all add to the city’s unique charm. Take the time to explore its neighborhoods and landmarks to truly appreciate what Seville has to offer.