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Dina Essawy
Dina Essawy
It seems you plan to travel to Seville, Spain, or at least make it one of your vacation destinations. 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, and world-class culinary delicacies. Of course, don’t forget to learn something about flamenco dancing.
Plan your visit with our list of the top things to do in Seville, Spain, to make your next trip unique.
We already provide all the information you need before buying your ticket to this beautiful city. Seville never fails to relax, amaze, and entertain you for a reason—it’s magic.
Curious! Let’s get started.
Top Things to Do in Seville, Spain
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Step Inside the Largest Gothic Church: Seville Cathedral
Location: Avenida de la Constitucion
How to get there: An 8-minute walk from Paseo de Las Delicias bus station.
Price: USD 10. If you can find an audio guide we recommend, the ticket will cost USD 20.
By any standard, the cathedral was built to be unbelievably huge and amazingly beautiful so that people could gaze at its magic facade. So, feel free to share your utmost excitement and ecstasy.
The cathedral delivers 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 Gothic-style Churches. It seems like 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 further in time, the same site is the scene of a Roman temple.
The cathedral’s entrance gate leads you 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, the Archbishops’ Palace, and the 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 fantastic facade of all the buildings that have appeared here.
- You may get lost and disoriented inside the cathedral or be taken aback by its vast dimensions. Just keep your eyes peeled for details. Don’t forget to visit the tomb of Columbus, the greatest explorer of all time.
- Explore many precious pieces like artefacts 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.
- Although the cathedral is holy, there is no strict dress code. Respecting this is preferable.
- Backpacks or big bags are not permitted to enter, and you shouldn’t bring photography equipment like a tripod.
Pro Tip: The Seville Cathedral is free to visit on Mondays from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Let’s Explore the Spanish Soul: Santa Cruz
Location: Casco Antiguo
How to get there: If you are in the city centre, you can walk just a few minutes away.
Price: Free access
If you want a place to do in Seville, the Santa Cruz district offers activities, eateries, and more. This spot provides everything you need for the best taste of Spanish life.
The best part of wandering through the streets here is that you are still near all the previous attractions mentioned earlier. So, don’t just visit the cathedral and the royal palaces and go back to your hotel without checking out the rest of the town.
Why should you visit Santa Cruz?
Creating your plan while visiting Santa Cruz would be overwhelming as you stroll through streets like a maze. Known as a Jewish neighbourhood, you can easily see that this district has its unique design. 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 theatre. 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 take a nice ride through the district, taking in the colourful architecture.
- Be present at the Flamenco Theatre and enjoy watching glorious shows.
- It is a fantastic place to shop for many trendy brands or buy souvenirs for your family.
- Explore Sevillano painter Bartolomé Murillo’s studio, where you can see many excellent paintings and capture photos in renowned spots.
- Stroll through narrow pedestrian lanes and discover 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 you are here. You will want to go every day at night to enjoy the atmosphere and have a drink at one of the local bars.
- If you want to visit all the historic buildings in the district, you must have your online ticket unless you want to waste your time in long waiting queues.
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.
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Visit the Most Iconic Place in Seville- Plaza de Toros
Location: Paseo de Colon
How to get there: Just a few minutes’ walk from the 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. Whether you’re okay with this kind of fight or think it’s inhuman behaviour, the Plaza de Toros is part of Spain’s unique history. It will amuse you that the arena’s architecture was built to allow all 14,000 spectators to hear and watch the show, no matter where they were.
Why should you visit Plaza de Toros?
The magnificent Plaza de Toros is Spain’s oldest bullring and the largest and most important arena for bullfighting. The historical area comes with a cavalry training centre 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 see the latest trends in flamenco dresses and traditional clothes of Spanish people, who are proudly showing off their culture.
Dating from 1791, Plaza de Toros has an impressive, unique facade with vibrant white and yellow structures. It is no wonder that it 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 game’s rules and the history of this fighting show.
- If you are not interested in watching an actual show, 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)
- Come here from April to October to attend bullfights, but remember that the price will be more than 30 dollars, depending on where you sit.
Things not to Do:
- The seats are uncomfortable, so if you want to watch a show here, bring a cushion.
- Attending bullfights is not recommended if you are a faint-hearted person. Plaza de Toros isn’t the right place for you.
- Don’t be late if you plan to visit the museum between April and October. It’ll be open until 3 p.m.
Pro Tip: If you don’t like crowds, please avoid the Semana Santa dates or the holy week in Spain. Not just tourists but also locals are eager to attend spellbound performances, dances, and many fun activities that mirror a swathe of Spanish history and culture.
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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 is Plaza de España, where you can indulge in the European lifestyle and unwind. 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?
Some blockbuster movies were filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars. However, you don’t need to be a movie star to visit Plaza de España. It’s the best family-friendly place to stay without exhausting your budget and free. The site is like an open gallery with incredible artwork, and painted tiles decorate the administrative buildings.
Walking through the Plaza, admiring the well-designed palace’s facade, one can see 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 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 to navigate the pretty canal and enjoy a gentle breeze. (Yes, just like Venice)
Conversely, the Plaza offers many small shops throughout the square where you can 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 colourful and decorative bulbs.
- Enjoy the waterfalls, small lakes, bridges, and alcoves in Maria Luisa Park.
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 want to miss out on watching musicians play and perform the famous Flamenco dances all around the Plaza, which adds charm to this classy and fabulous vacation destination.
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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 natural environment. It’s the best place to get away from the bustling city centre.
Why should you visit Maria Luisa Park?
The park has giant trees, vibrant blooming flowers, and tall palm trees that provide shade from the sun. Ducks can swim in the ponds and move freely in search of food.
Pick your favourite 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 that is an excellent choice for a family vacation, allowing 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.
It is not just a large garden; it gives you special access to many different buildings associated with various figures and special events.
Each park corner is a work of art, with opportunities to interact with flora and fauna and 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:
- Spend time with your family, friends, and just yourself, and breathe fresh air.
- Inside the park, numerous statues and works of art stand out in each corner.
- You can cycle or ride a horse through the park, discovering its broad spaces, or take a carriage trip to the Plaza de Espana.
- Run or jog inside the park between gorgeous pathways and spectacular colourful-tiled fountains.
- 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 free unless you search for a private tour guide inside.
- It’s a public park, so avoid going on weekends; residents consider it a favourite outing, and it’ll be crowded.
- If you’re visiting Seville in the summer, avoid going to the park first thing in the morning. It may be too hot to enjoy your stroll.
Pro Tip: Remember to visit America’s Square Zone, where you can admire the exhibition’s perfect facade and, on occasion, enjoy great night activities amid this lovely ambience.
Where to Stay in Seville?
If you miss travelling memories or have too many, Seville will help you 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 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 famous attractions and the best shopping area. Most importantly, the best bars and restaurants offering tapas and local cocktail drinks add another reason to make your base in the city centre, which reflects all Sevillian spirit.
So, if you are looking for a lively tourist district close to must-see sights in Seville, lightning 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 travellers:
Hostal Sierpes (around $32 a night)
Las Casas de Los Mercaderes (around $58 a night)
La Alameda
Another great option for staying in Seville is La Alameda. It is stuffed with local shops and long, exciting strolls. It will touch you deeply. At the same time, you visit the Plaza de la Encarnación (the largest wooden structure in the world).
On Thursdays, the neighbourhood will give you special access to the Calle Feria market, where you can find many valuable pieces and antiques. La Alameda has many restaurants and bars; you don’t have to avoid the city centre.
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 travellers:
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. There are 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 of 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 travellers:
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 popular tourist destination. Many visitors come here to shiver down the spine with many historical sites and unique culture and dabble with beautiful royal palaces like the Royal Alcázar of Seville and Seville Cathedral. It would be ideal to book your accommodation 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 numerous paved lanes are 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, I plan on being unable to find a seat at popular bars and restaurants, rising accommodation prices, many tourists visiting each site, 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 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 helpful information for planning your Seville visit. Don’t forget to check out our most recent posts and videos for travel tips and tricks for your next vacation spot. Also, please join us on social media. You can learn many more exciting things before going anywhere in the world! Lastly, check out our travel article on our favourite history Spanish sites.
