Seville, the pearl of Andalusia, enchants visitors with its blend of Moorish architecture, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm.
From stunning landmarks like the Cathedral with its famous Giralda to the magnificent Alcázar and the charming Santa Cruz district – the city is full of highlights.
In this guide, you'll discover the must-see places and get valuable tips to make your Seville trip unforgettable.
Let's start with Seville’s most popular attraction: the Real Alcázar.
The Real Alcázar of Seville, also known as the Royal Palace, is undoubtedly one of the city's most stunning highlights and a must-visit for every traveler.
This magnificent palace complex blends Arab-Christian architecture in the unique Mudéjar style, featuring exquisitely designed courtyards, intricate decorations, countless oriental tile patterns in every room, and a breathtaking, expansive garden.
Among its most impressive features are the Patio de las Doncellas, with its elegant arcades, and the Salón de los Embajadores, whose gold-adorned, richly decorated ceiling is a true masterpiece.
For visiting this impressive complex, we recommend planning at least two hours.
Thanks to the clear map provided at the entrance, you can easily explore the palace’s numbered highlights step by step.
The entrance to the Real Alcázar is located directly opposite Seville Cathedral. Tickets are in high demand, especially during peak season.
To avoid long waiting times, it’s highly recommended to purchase your ticket online in advance.
Pre-booked tickets allow access through a separate queue, significantly reducing waiting time.
You can find the online ticket here: Real Alcázar Admission Ticket.
Good to know: The Real Alcázar is one of the most visited attractions in Seville and welcomes large numbers of tourists every day.
This means you should expect crowds, so a bit of patience is often needed—especially if you want to take a great photo.
The Seville Cathedral is a true masterpiece and one of the most impressive sights in Andalusia.
As the largest Gothic church in Spain and one of the largest in the world, it presents an awe-inspiring exterior that hints at the immense scale of its interior.
Its majestic dimensions and magnificent architecture make it an absolute highlight that you should not miss during your visit to Seville.
The fascination continues inside: in addition to its impressive size, you can admire the sarcophagus of Christopher Columbus and take in the artistic design.
A must-do is the climb up the Giralda, the former minaret of the old mosque.
This tower is a perfect example of Moorish influence in architecture and offers one of the best views over Seville.
We recommend planning at least an hour and a half for visiting the cathedral and the Giralda.
Depending on the season, it’s best to arrive early, as it can get very crowded, especially during peak season or in the afternoon.
To avoid long waiting times, you should definitely book your ticket online in advance.
The ticket price also includes access to the Giralda. You can find the online ticket here: Seville Cathedral Admission Ticket.
Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that combines a visit to the cathedral and the Real Alcázar – a great opportunity to explore two of Seville’s most famous highlights while learning fascinating background information. You can find the ticket here: Seville Combo Ticket.
Plaza de España is undoubtedly one of the most impressive squares in Seville and a place that immediately captivated us.
Originally built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, this grand complex is set within the picturesque María Luisa Park.
It fascinates visitors with its beautifully decorated tiles, water channels, and elegant bridges.
As an architectural masterpiece, the square has also served as a backdrop for several famous films.
In summer, the square is jokingly nicknamed "the frying pan of Andalusia" because temperatures here can become unbearably high during the day.
Visiting in the evening is not only more pleasant but also a special experience, as the atmospheric lighting gives the square a magical ambiance.
And the best part: visiting Plaza de España is completely free!
Seville’s Old Town, known as Centro Histórico, is one of the most beautiful historic quarters in Andalusia and an absolute must for every visitor.
Anyone exploring the Real Alcázar and Seville Cathedral cannot miss a stroll through this charming historic district.
Also located in the city center, the picturesque Santa Cruz district exudes a unique atmosphere with its narrow, maze-like streets and charming squares.
Once Seville’s Jewish quarter, it has evolved into a lively area full of charm, characterized by cozy tapas bars, traditional bodegas, and small shops.
No map is needed here – the best way to explore is to simply wander, stroll through the narrow streets, and soak in the unmistakable charm.
Casa de Pilatos is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful palaces in Seville. It offers a wonderful, albeit smaller, alternative to the grand Alcázar.
Built in the 16th century, the palace blends various architectural styles, including Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque.
Particularly impressive are the stunning gardens, which serve as a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, as well as the many colorful tiles in an intricate oriental design.
Additionally, you can admire remarkable paintings and various antiques that perfectly complement the charm of this urban palace.
To avoid long waiting times, especially during peak season, we recommend booking your ticket online in advance.
You can find the appropriate ticket here: Casa de Pilatos Admission Ticket.
Our tip: On Mondays, you can visit Casa de Pilatos for free from 3 pm onwards. However, the number of free tickets is limited, so it’s worth arriving early to secure your spot.
The Palacio de las Dueñas is one of the most famous palaces in Seville.
Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, it impressively combines Renaissance, Gothic, and Moorish architectural styles.
Behind its modest walls lies a true gem: magnificent rooms, a spacious garden, and a picturesque courtyard that invite visitors to admire its beauty.
Since 2016, this remarkable palace has been open to the public, offering fascinating insights into Seville’s history.
To avoid long waiting times, especially during peak season, you should definitely book your ticket online in advance.
You can find the online ticket here: Palacio de las Dueñas Admission Ticket.
Our tip: On Mondays, you can visit the Palacio de las Dueñas for free from 4 pm onwards. However, the number of free tickets is limited, so it’s worth arriving early to secure your spot.
The Metropol Parasol, known as "Las Setas" (The Mushrooms), is a modern wooden structure in the historic heart of Seville and is considered one of the largest wooden constructions in the world. Completed in 2011, this futuristic landmark contrasts with the city's historic sights and is humorously nicknamed "the mushroom" by locals due to its shape.
With a grid-like structure made of wood, concrete, and steel, it impressively stretches over the rooftops of the old town and serves as a massive sunshade during the hot summer months, when temperatures reach between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius.
The view from the top is particularly stunning. A short circular walkway offers a fantastic panorama over the rooftops of the city.
In our opinion, visiting at sunset is especially beautiful, as the old town is bathed in a magical light.
Although this is often the busiest time, the unique atmosphere makes it a truly special moment.
After sunset, the attraction is further enhanced by a light show, which is also well worth seeing.
You can find the timed online ticket here: Metropol Parasol Admission Ticket.
The Plaza de Toros in Seville is the second-largest bullring in Spain after the one in Madrid, with a capacity of around 12,000 spectators.
To this day, it serves as a venue for bullfights, a tradition deeply rooted in Andalusian culture but increasingly subject to criticism.
Inside the arena, you can explore an intriguing bullfighting museum.
However, the surrounding area also has much to offer: the lively El Arenal district, where the Plaza de Toros is located, invites visitors to stay and enjoy its many restaurants and cultural highlights.
The atmosphere is particularly impressive during the Feria de Abril, the famous spring festival in April, when the arena becomes the center of the world’s largest bullfighting festival.
You can find the online ticket here: Plaza de Toros Admission Ticket.
Our tip: On Wednesdays, you can visit the bullring for free from 3:30 pm onwards. However, the number of free tickets is limited, so it’s worth arriving early to secure your spot.
The Triana district, located on the western side of the Guadalquivir River, is a vibrant neighborhood that captivates visitors with its blend of tradition and lively atmosphere.
Despite its growing popularity, it has retained its authentic charm and offers a chance to experience the real Seville away from the usual tourist routes.
Known for its colorful houses and charming streets, Triana is considered one of the city's most traditional districts.
It is also the historic cradle of both flamenco and bullfighting, which is reflected in the numerous flamenco shows held in local tablaos.
A central attraction is the Mercado de Triana, a market hall open daily from 9 am to 3 pm.
Here, you can discover local specialties, enjoy an authentic lunch, or simply stroll through the many stalls.
The district invites you to wander and soak in its charm—whether on a walk along the riverbank with a stunning view of Seville, sipping a Tinto de Verano, or exploring the small, colorful streets.
During a walk along the Guadalquivir – whose pronunciation can be quite a challenge – or a relaxing boat trip, you will inevitably come across the Torre del Oro, the "Golden Tower".
This Moorish watchtower from the 13th century, which now houses a maritime museum, is one of Seville’s oldest and most significant landmarks, shaping the city's skyline.
Originally, it was built to protect the city from enemy ships attempting to enter via the Guadalquivir.
Since the tower is quite small and the entrance fee relatively high, we believe that simply admiring it from the outside is more than enough without missing out on anything.
Let’s stay with the Guadalquivir River. A relaxing way to explore Seville while sitting back and enjoying a refreshing breeze, especially during the hot summer months, is a boat trip on the Guadalquivir. While walking allows you to see more sights, a boat tour is a great alternative if you enjoy a leisurely cruise or simply want to give your tired legs a break from sightseeing.
To avoid long waiting times, especially during peak season, it’s best to book your ticket online in advance. You can find the ticket here: River Cruise on the Guadalquivir.
Seville without flamenco – unimaginable! As the birthplace of flamenco, Andalusia, and especially Seville, is the perfect place to experience an authentic flamenco show.
The many tablaos in the city offer various options. You can spontaneously be approached on the street and handed a flyer for a performance, often taking place the same evening. Alternatively, you can book a ticket in advance for a show where professional dancers showcase their skills.
Drinks and small snacks are often included in the ticket price.
If you’re looking for an even more exclusive experience, you can book a full dinner package and enjoy the evening in an elegant atmosphere.
You can find the ticket here: Flamenco Shows in Seville.
The Alameda de Hércules and its surroundings have become one of the trendiest districts in Seville.
In the past, the area was run-down and associated with prostitution, but extensive revitalization has brought significant change.
Today, you’ll find a lively mix of restaurants, tapas bars, cozy pubs, and small shops that invite you to linger.
Especially in the evening, the Alameda de Hércules becomes a hotspot for experiencing the Andalusian lifestyle with tapas, street music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The best part: The Alameda de Hércules is not yet overrun by tourists, as it is located about 15 minutes from the historic city center.
Every Thursday, the flea market "El Jueves" takes place on Calle Feria from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm.
If you want to visit the main attractions of Seville, you should plan at least two days. This time is enough to explore the city’s most famous highlights.
However, the more time you have, the better: This way, you’ll have the chance to discover lesser-known corners of Seville and enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace.
Generally, we would say:
Would you prefer to explore Seville on foot? No problem, it's definitely doable as the main attractions are relatively close to each other – depending on your energy, it’s a great option.
Alternatively, you can comfortably explore the city with one of the hop-on/hop-off buses.
During the ride, an audio guide in multiple languages will provide you with all the important information about the attractions.
You can also decide spontaneously whether to get off to take a closer look at a particular sight.
A special experience is a ride in one of the traditional horse-drawn carriages, which will take you leisurely through the city center.
If you prefer something more active, simply rent a bike from one of the many rental shops and explore the city on two wheels.
For those who prefer a more personalized yet less strenuous option, there are e-scooters. With providers like Yego or Voi, you can easily rent a scooter via the app and comfortably zip around Seville.
For longer distances, you can also conveniently take an Uber, Bolt, or a taxi.
Parking in Seville can be a real challenge, especially if you've chosen accommodation in the city center. Parking spaces are scarce and expensive.
Therefore, it’s advisable to book accommodation with its own parking or inquire about parking options and helpful tips in advance.
Often, it is also cheaper and less stressful to park your rental car outside the city for the duration of your stay and take a taxi or public transportation into the center.
The narrow and winding streets of the old town pose a particular challenge when driving – some alleys are so narrow that it’s better to avoid them completely.
If you still want to park in the city center and your accommodation doesn't offer private parking, you’ll often have to use a public parking garage.
However, these are not only expensive (starting at €25 per day), but they are often also very tight and uncomfortable.
A good alternative is to choose accommodation outside the city center, such as in the Triana district. There, with a bit of luck, you may be able to find an affordable street parking spot.
The route from the airport to Seville city center is straightforward. For €5, the EA bus will take you directly to the center in about 30 minutes.
The bus departs right outside the airport exit, and you can easily buy your ticket from the driver.
The journey ends at Plaza de Armas, Seville's central bus station. From there, most accommodations in the historic center are within walking distance.
If you prefer a more comfortable or faster option, you can alternatively use an Uber, Bolt, or a regular taxi.
When it comes to a city trip – like here in Seville – the location of your accommodation is crucial.
Our tip: The more central, the better! This way, you can easily reach all the major attractions on foot in a short time and even take a break in your accommodation in between.
We chose the centrally located Magno Apartments Almansa, which we booked through booking.com.
The modern and spacious accommodation was equipped with everything needed for a pleasant stay.
We especially enjoyed the beautiful rooftop terrace. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there and highly recommend this accommodation.
In Seville, social life begins in the streets in the evening and on weekends, starting as early as midday – the perfect opportunity to hop from tapa to tapa, especially in the charming former Jewish quarter, Barrio de Santa Cruz. The selection of tapas bars is large and diverse, offering a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes.
Some classics include Flamenco Huevos (fried potatoes with poached eggs, Serrano ham, chorizo, and peas), Espinacas con Garbanzos (chickpeas with spinach), and Patatas Bravas (crispy potato cubes with spicy sauce).
A real highlight is the famous Iberian Serrano ham, a regional specialty often served as a starter or snack with an aperitif, and a must-have in any tapas bar.
As for meal times, there are a few small differences compared to other countries: lunch in Seville is rarely served before 1 pm, and dinner usually takes place between 8 and 9 pm.
This is why many restaurants don’t open their doors until around 7:30 pm.
Can't get enough of all the Mediterranean charm and impressive sights that Andalusia has to offer? Then a visit to Málaga or its fascinating surroundings might be just what you're looking for!
In our post Málaga – 12 Attractions for Your Trip to the Costa del Sol, we introduce you to the city's most beautiful highlights – from historical landmarks to the best viewpoints.
If you want to learn more about Málaga, you can find all the essential information in our post Málaga: The Best Tips & Information for Your Trip – from insider tips to culinary recommendations.
And if you want to explore the region around Málaga, be sure to check out our post Málaga's Surroundings: 5 Must-Visit Destinations You Shouldn't Miss.
There, you’ll discover which nearby destinations will captivate you, from stunning natural wonders to picturesque villages. Take a look and get inspired!
Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.