Top Things to Do in Seville, Spain- All You Need to Know Before Traveling & Great Tips

Updated On: November 07, 2023 by   Rahma Ali

It seems you plan to travel to Seville, Spain, or at least you make it one of your choices to travel to in your next vacation. That’s fantastic! Good for you.

Seville is one of the best places to visit in Spain to live a good life. From wandering the quaint cobblestone streets to meandering through rich historical sights and winding your way through a maze of perfect cobblestone alleyways, the joys of spending time in this beautiful metropolis are endless.

Seville offers tons of things that make it a popular tourist destination. For instance, Sevilla is known for its picturesque architecture, unique culture, world-class culinary delicacies, and of course, don’t forget to know something about flamenco dancing.

Plan your visit with our list of the top things to do in Seville, Spain, to make your next trip unlike any other.

We already provide you with all the information you need before buying your ticket to this beautiful city. Seville never fails to make you relaxed, amazed, and entertained for a reason, its own magic.

Curious! Let’s get started.

Top Things to Do in Seville, Spain

• Step Inside the Largest Gothic Church: Seville Cathedral

Location: Avenida de la Constitucion
How to get there: A 8 minutes’ walk from Paseo de Las Delicias bus station.
Price: USD 10, and if you can find an audio guide, which is what we recommend, the ticket will be USD 20.

By any standard, the cathedral was built to be unbelievably huge and amazingly beautiful to let people gaze at its magic facade. So, feel free to share your utmost feeling of excitement and ecstasy. 

The cathedral delivers its beauty to visitors through many tall columns holding up the lofty ceiling.

Why should you visit the Seville Cathedral?

This fantastic building will change your mind about the Gothic-style Church. It seems you are strolling through a vast stone fortress.

Located in the heart of the Old City district, this site is considered a homeland of different cultures.

Before the cathedral was constructed, this was the location of one of the most important mosques in the Muslim world. And, if we go back even farther in time, the same site was the scene of a Roman temple.

The entrance gate of the cathedral brings you first into the gorgeous patio courtyard, Patio De Los Naranjos, or “the patio of the orange trees.” You can tell that Seville is the city of oranges grown here across streets that flourish in the spring turning the town into a beautiful large garden.

Things to Do:

• Plan to visit several historical landmarks next to the Seville Cathedral in the Old Town district, the Archives building, Archbishops’ Palace, and Alcazar Palace, to learn more about Seville’s Christian and Muslim history.
• Roaming around the cathedral in the patio courtyard and snapping pictures of the amazing facade of all buildings that have appeared here.
• Getting lost and disoriented inside the cathedral, or maybe being taken aback by the vast dimensions of the place. Just keep your eyes peeled over the details. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the tomb of Columbus, the greatest explorer of all time.
• Explore many precious pieces like artifacts and paintings inside the cathedral while listening to the audio guide or being part of a tour guide. 
• Slogging up the cathedral towers, La Giralda, to enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top. 

Things not to Do:

• We don’t recommend visiting Spain in the high season. From June through early September, everything will be doubled in price. The Seville Cathedral, for example, has a ticket fee of more than $70.
• There is no strict dress code to enter the cathedral, even though it’s a holy place. It’s preferable to respect this.
• Backpacks or big bags are not permitted to enter and don’t bring any photography equipment like a tripod.

Pro Tip: On Mondays, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., you can visit the Seville Cathedral for free.

• Let’s Explore the Spanish Soul: Santa Cruz

Location: Casco Antiguo
How to get there: if you are in the city center you can get there by a walk, just a few minutes away.
Price: Free access

If you are searching for a place that features many things to do in Seville, activities, eateries, and more, you should certainly go to the Santa Cruz district. This spot provides you with everything you need to get the best flavor of Spanish life.

 The best part of wandering through the streets here is you are still next to all previous attractions mentioned earlier. So, don’t just visit the cathedral, the royal palaces, and back your hotel without checking out the rest of the town.

Why should you visit Santa Cruz?

Creating your own plan while visiting Santa Cruz would be overwhelming as you are going to stroll through streets like a maze. Known as a Jewish neighborhood, you can easily see that this district has its unique design. Just walking down will enable you to soak up some culture reflected in the streets and buildings more than anywhere else in Spain.

Imagine you can attend one of the most prestigious Flamenco shows in the world if you book a seat in Santa Cruz’s Museo del Baile theater. Or, if you are a big fan of learning more about the dancers, you can head for a charming museum and exhibition to spend a memorable night.

Things to Do:

• Rent a bike and go for a nice ride through the district, taking in the colorful architecture.
• Be present at one at the Flamenco theater and enjoy watching glorious shows.
• Fantastic place for shopping in many trendy brands or buying souvenirs for your family.
• Explore Sevillano painter Bartolomé Murillo’s studio, where you can see many excellent paintings and capture photos in such renowned spots.
• Strolling through narrow pedestrian lanes and discovering some local cuisines like Tapas.

Things not to Do:

• Don’t look at a map or GPS application; let yourself discover each nook of the Santa Cruz district is guided by your senses.
• Don’t reserve any hotel unless being here. You will want to go every day at night to enjoy the atmosphere as well as have a drink at one of the local bars.
• If you want to visit the whole historic buildings in the district, don’t go there without having your online ticket, unless you want to waste your time in long waiting queues to enter.

Pro Tip: If you want to have a refreshing drink or eat some snacks, go for Calle Mateos Gago street, recognized as one of the oldest restaurants in Seville. 

• Visit the Most Iconic Place in Seville- Plaza de Toros

Location: Paseo de Colon
How to get there: Just a few minutes walk away from Paseo Cristóbal Colón bus stop.
Price: Around USD 9

Seville is featured with the most well-known concepts about Spain; bullfighting is the golden proof. Regardless of being okay with this kind of fight or you think it’s inhuman behavior, the Plaza de Toros is part of the unique history of Spain. It will keep you amused about the arena’s architecture built to allow all 14,000 spectators to hear and watch the show, no matter where you are. 

Why should you visit Plaza de Toros?

The magnificent Plaza de Toros is the oldest bullring and the largest and most important arena for bullfighting in Spain. The historical area comes with a cavalry training center where people learn the principles of being a prominent bullfighter.

In April, this spot often turns out to be a grand festival, Feria de Abril, very popular in Spain. Many visitors are keen to come here to see the latest trends of flamenco dresses and traditional clothes of Spanish people showing off their culture proudly.

 Dating from 1791, Plaza de Toros has an impressive and unique facade with vibrant white and yellow structures. There is no wonder that the Plaza de Toros is one of the hottest attractions and among the most visited monuments in Seville. 

 

Things to Do:

• Visit the museum of bullfighting attached to the arena to explore all activities long associated with being the playground of the rich and famous show in Spain.
• It’s advisable to get your audio guide or headset to listen to an explanation of the rules of the game and the history of this fighting show.
• If you are not interested in watching an actual show, you can just pop in here for a look. Going through tunnels underneath to get the arena’s seats.
• Take a look at matador uniforms over decades. (Exaggerated but so cool)
• Coming here from April to October to attend bullfights, but keep in mind that the price will cost you more than 30 dollars depending on where you sit.

Things not to Do:

• The seats are not comfortable, so if you have a desire to watch a show here, don’t go there without a cushion.
• Attending bullfights is not recommended if you are a faint-hearted person. Plaza de Toros isn’t the right place for you.
• If you plan to visit the museum between April and October, don’t be late. It’ll be there till 3 p.m.

Pro Tip: If you don’t like to get stuck with crowds, please keep yourself away from the Semana Santa dates or the holy week in Spain. Not just tourists, locals are awning to attend the spellbound performances, dances, and many fun activities, which is a mirror to a swathe of Spanish history and culture.

• Immerse Yourself in Spanis’s Venice- Plaza de España

Location: Avenida de Isabel la Catolica
How to get there: Three minutes walk away from Av de Portugal Bar Citroen bus stop.
Price: Free access

 One of the most-visited and well-rated attractions on Tripadvisor in Seville, it’s Plaza de España, where you can indulge in the European lifestyle and help yourself unwind for a while. Located in front of Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de España offers a leisure atmosphere brimming with many things to do and see here.

 Here, you will find many itineraries around the square and the park that give you insight into the beautiful structures.

 Why should you visit Plaza de España?

Here, some blockbuster movies were filmed, Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars. However, you don’t need to be a movie star to visit Plaza de España because it’s the best family-friendly place to stay without exhausting your budget, and it’s totally free. The site is just like an open gallery with incredible artwork and painted tiles decorated the administrative buildings. 

 Walking through the Plaza admiring the well-designed palace’s facade, It’s one of Seville’s sparkling gems. Many prominent events are held in this square taking advantage of its beauty, so if you’re lucky, you can be prepared for such lovely parties or dancing shows if you come here at night.

 Or you can come here in the morning and hire the little rowing boats for navigating the pretty canal and enjoy a gentle breeze. (Yes, just like Venice)

 On the other side, the Plaza offers many small shops scattered throughout the square to shop for traditional art pieces. 

Things to Do:

• Roaming around the Plaza de España on a sunny day and capturing many lovely Instagrammable stories and photos.
• Hire a boat and practice paddleboard in the canal, which enables you to discover the surrounding area.
• Explore the opulent architecture of the Plaza and listen to the historical stories behind every painting hanging on the walls.
• Come here at night to see the sweeping boulevards; it turns out to be a very romantic spot in Seville when the whole square lights up in colorful and decorative bulbs.
• Lose yourself in Maria Luisa Park, taking pleasure in the waterfalls, small lakes, bridges, and alcoves.

Things not to Do:

• The horse-drawn carriage excursion is a must-do. It’s a bit pricey, but the experience will be well worth it.
• Don’t visit the Plaza de España on weekends. It usually becomes jam-packed.
• It appears to be a fun walking tour, so don’t wear inappropriate for such an outing.

Pro Tip: You don’t miss out on watching musicians playing and performing the famous Flamenco dances all around the Plaza, which adds charm to this classy and fabulous vacation destination.

• Get Out to Breath Fresh Air: Maria Luisa Park

Location: Paseo de las Delicias
How to get there: Two minutes walk away from De Las Delicias bus stop.
Price: Free access

During your visit to the Plaza de España, don’t be left out of exploring Maria Luisa Park. It’s a vast green space to relax or take five at one of the tiled benches surrounded by a purely natural environment. It’s the best place to get away from the bustling of the city center.

Why should you visit Maria Luisa Park?

Loaded with giant trees, vibrant blooming flowers, and tall palm trees that provide shade from the sun, you can find ducks swimming in the ponds then moving around freely in search of food.

Pick your favorite book and sit close to the fountain to listen to the surrounding trickling brook, or bring a spot near the fountain to let your imagination run wild. It’s a large landscape which is an excellent choice for a family vacation to allow kids to kick the ball, run, cycle, or even hire a ride on the horse and carriage. In the peaceful lakes, a boat is also an option for kayaking.

Not just a large garden, the place gives you special access to many different buildings associated with various figures and special events.

Each corner of the park is a work of art, with opportunities to interact with flora and fauna as well as observe parrots. This lush oasis will intrinsically offer a quiet moment with yourself or your family to appreciate the beauty of the scenery around you.

Things to Do:

• Spending time with your family or friends, or just by yourself, simply relax and breathe some fresh air.
• Inside the park, there are numerous statues and works of art that stand out in each corner.
• You can cycle or ride a horse through the park, discovering all of the park’s broad space, or take a carriage trip to the Plaza de Espana.
• Between gorgeous pathways and spectacular colorful-tiled fountains, run or jog inside the park.
• Visiting the museums inside the park before leaving will make your trip worthwhile.

Things not to Do:

• Don’t pay any fake tickets to enter the park. It’s totally free unless you search for a private tour guide inside.
• It’s a public park, so avoid going on weekends; residents consider it a favorite outing, and it’ll be crowded.
• If you’re visiting Seville in the summer, avoid going to the park first thing in the morning. You may not be able to enjoy your stroll since it is too hot.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pay a visit to America’s Square Zone, where you can admire the perfect facade of the exhibition and, on occasion, enjoy great night activities amid this lovely ambiance.

Where to Stay in Seville?

Missing traveling memories or having too many, Seville will help you to create new ones. But the most important thing to consider is where you stay in Seville. Of course, you have a budget you don’t need to exceed your limitations, but we here will review many options that suit everyone’s preferences.

What we like most about Seville is that it allows free-flowing avenues. You don’t have to worry about being stuck in transportation. It’s a walkable trip. 

Let’s see what we have for you.

Barrio Santa Cruz

Barrio Santa Cruz (the Jewish Quarter of Seville) has most of Seville’s popular attractions and the best shopping area. Most importantly, the best bars and restaurants offering tapes and local cocktail drinks add another reason to make your base in the city center which mirror all Sevillian spirit.

So, if you are looking for a lively tourist district close to must-see sights in Seville lightening up until midnight, undoubtedly book your accommodation here.

Best Hotels for families:

Ayre Hotel Sevilla (around $118 a night)
Hotel Exe Sevilla Palmera (around $83 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique (around $270 a night)
Joya Del Casco Boutique Hotel (around $210 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travelers:

Hostal Sierpes (around $32 a night)
Las Casas de Los Mercaderes (around $58 a night)

 

La Alameda

Another great option to stay in Seville stuffed with local shops and long interesting strolling, La Alameda will touch you deeply while visiting the Plaza de la Encarnación (the largest wooden structure in the world.)

On Thursdays, the neighborhood will give you special access to Calle Feria market, where you can find many valuable pieces and antiques. La Alameda has a jumble of restaurants and bars and you don’t stay away from the city center.

Best Hotels for families:

Hotel Sacristía de Santa Ana (around $71 a night)
Hotel Patio de la Alameda (around $112 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

One Shot Palacio Conde de Torrejon 09 (around $160 a night)
Hotel Colón Gran Meliá (around $352 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travelers:

Hostel One Centro (around $44 a night)
Hostal Jardin de la Alameda (around $58 a night)

Centro

Centro is another decent and clean barrio you can stay at during your stay in Seville. Many things you can tumble into while walking through this barrio. Located right next to Barrio Santa Cruz, it always comes at the top of our recommendations for shopping lovers. This place will give you a deep and abiding impression upon your mind as if Seville is your dream vacation. It’s enough to know that Plaza de España is just a few minutes from your hotel.

Best Hotels for families:

Oasis Backpackers’ Palace Seville (around $89 a night)
Vincci La Rábida (around $114 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Hotel Mercer Sevilla – Luxurious choice (around $790 a night)
Hotel Boutique Casa del Poeta (around $212 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travelers:

Hostal Hom Museo (around $58 a night)
For You Hostel Sevilla (around $38 a night)

Connolly Cove Tips to Spend the Perfect Vacation Ever in Sevilla

• Book your accommodation early: Seville is a very common tourist destination. Many visitors come here to shiver down the spine with many historical sites and very unique culture and dabble with beautiful royal palaces like Royal Alcázar of Seville and Seville Cathedral. It would be ideal if you could book your accommodations as soon as possible.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes: It’s all about walking in Seville. There is no need to take a taxi or public transportation. Instead, you can simply take a walking tour to see everything. All of the major attractions are in one location. As a result, your holiday in Seville will be more affordable because you will save money on transportation.
• Rent a bike for a few days: Renting a bike is an excellent option if you plan on staying for a few days. Locals rely on it as their primary mode of transportation, and there are numerous paved lanes accessible. And staying in a clean and healthy environment will make you feel dreamlike. After you return, I’m sure you’ll reconsider having one in your hometown.

• Be prepared for crowds in the summer: For locals, Seville is the finest place to spend their summer vacation. So plan on not being able to find a seat at popular bars and restaurants, rising accommodation prices, a large number of tourists to each sight, and, of course, more festivals and concerts. Come here in the fall and winter if you’re looking for poignant memories away from the crowds and good weather.
• Seville people appreciate family time: Few people on the planet still value family time as much as Sevillians do. From roughly 2 to 5 p.m., most businesses, such as shops and markets, are closed. It’s not like they’re rebelling against the world’s standards; they simply like spending time with their family at home, eating lunch in the siesta tradition.

 

We hope you enjoy this insider guide as much as we do and that it provides you with helpful information for planning your Seville visit. Don’t forget to check out our most recent posts and videos for travel tips and tricks to your next vacation spot. Also, please join us on social media. You can learn a lot more exciting things before going anywhere in the world! Lastly – do check out our travel article on our favourite history Spanish sites.