Top 10: What to Do in Seville + Travel Tips

Seville’s history dates back to Roman times when, as Hispanis, it served as a major market town. It would then become the capital of Muslim Spain and later the bustling economic center of the Spanish Empire during its conquest of the Americas. Today, it is a bustling city, whose history persists at every street corner and in every square. Enjoy Seville’s exceptional architectural heritage, unique atmosphere, and deep-rooted cultural traditions.

Today at Civitatis, we’re going to dive into what to do in Seville, looking at the absolute must-see, iconic landmarks as well as some hidden gems you won’t want to miss… ¡Vamos!

1. Explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville

Built in the 13th century by the Almohads, the Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the most beautiful palace complexes in the world, standing as witness to centuries of history. The site on which it was built dates back to ancient Rome, though the building as it stands today can mostly be attributed to the Almohad dynasty, whose empire had its capital in Seville. Since its construction, it has undergone significant changes overseen by various leaders, leaving us with a beautiful amalgamation of Gothic, Mudéjar, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture.

The main entrance of the Alcázar is adorned with Moorish arches, which lead you into the El Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens), featuring a central pool surrounded by columns and walls adorned with azulejo tiles—a classic example of the Mudéjar style. On the upper floor, the royal rooms feature finely-worked, coffered ceilings and intricate tapestries recounting the great Spanish epics.

While the Alcázars interior is spectacular, its gardens are perhaps even more breathtaking—it feels like a fantasy world! Extending over several acres, the gardens are lined with palm and orange trees, and fountains—These spaces reflect a traditional Islamic design, in which water and greenery are a symbol of paradise. Remember we mentioned that the gardens feel like a fantasy world? Various scenes from the series Game of Thrones were shot here!

We highly recommend discovering this legendary landmark as part of our Alcázar of Seville guided tour. Alternatively, enjoy a personalized private tour of the Alcázar of Seville with Civitatis.

• More tours & experiences at the Alcázar of Seville.

2. Visit the Seville Cathedral, Home of the Tomb of Christopher Colombus

A cultural symbol and an architectural masterpiece, Seville Cathedral is an impressive testament to the religious and economic power of medieval Spain. Built in the 15th century on the site of a former Almohad mosque, it illustrates a fascinating transition between Islamic and Christian cultures in Spain. At 253,000 ft² (23,500 m²), it is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third largest Christian church, after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a treasure trove of artistic and historical goods. Marvel at gorgeous Gothic stained glass windows, the Retablo Mayor (one of the world’s largest altars), and, perhaps most importantly, the tomb of Christopher Columbus—the man credited with the European discovery of the Americas.

The cathedral’s iconic bell tower, the Giralda, is a product of the Almohad dynasty, that was adapted for Christian worship after the fall of Al-Andalus. At 341 ft (104 m) high, the structure retains its original interior ramp—built to allow horsemen to climb to the top. From the top you can enjoy some of the best views of Seville, standing above the city’s rooftops, the Plaza de España, and the Alcázar.

You can visit this UNESCO World Heritage site is as part of this Seville Cathedral guided tour, or this Seville Cathedral private tour. However, your best option is to get this Alcázar, Seville Cathedral + La Giralada guided tour.

• More tours & experiences at Seville Cathedral.

3. Take in Vibes at the Plaza de España

The Plaza de España in Seville is a masterpiece of neo-Mudéjar architecture and one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Spain. Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 in María Luisa City Park, this expansive semicircular square is said to represent Spain embracing its former colonies. Bordering the semicircle is a waterway and a gorgeous stone palace, with a long gallery and elaborate towers on either side. You’ll also see 48 beautifully crafted ceramic benches adorned with colorful azulejo tiles, each representing a different Spanish province. Truly, it’s like stepping onto a movie set. In fact, if you’re a movie buff, you might recognize it from Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, in which it was called ‘Theed Palace’.

Come and enjoy a stroll under the Plaza de España’s shaded galleries and you’re sure to catch a flamenco show or a busker showing off their talents! Or you can learn more about this famous square’s history as part of a free walking tour of Seville, or a private walking tour of Seville.

• More tours & experiences at the Plaza de España.

4. Get Lost in the Neighborhood of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a neighborhood that exudes the Andalusian charm. This labyrinth of alleyways is defined by its colorful buildings, decorative patios, and great tapas restaurants, and bars. Its history dates back to medieval times, when it was the Jewish quarter of Seville—in fact, at one point Santa Cruz was home to the largest Jewish community in Seville, second only to Toledo.

After sunset, Santa Cruz takes on a different atmosphere. Its alleyways bathed in golden light fill with the guitar sounds of street musicians and bars and nightlife venues fill up, creating a lovely, buzzy atmosphere. Experience it for yourself as part of this Seville night tour!

5. Visit an Iconic Bull Ring at the Plaza de Toros

The Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza in Seville, founded in the 18th century stands as Spain’s largest, most legendary, and one of its oldest bullfighting rings—a controversial tradition which is hugely significant in the region’s culture. The arena itself has a capacity of around 12,000 and features a combination of Moorish and Baroque influences. While bullfighting would have once taken place more regularly in the venue, the events are now mostly restricted to April, when Seville is host to the largest bullfighting festival in the world.

To learn more about bullfighting and its origins, you can go on a guided tour of Seville’s Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullfighting ring, which includes a visit to the Bullfighting Museum—enter the ring, learn about the history of bullfighting and see interesting costumes and artifacts associated with the sport.

6. General Archive of the Indies

The Archivo General de Indias is one of Seville’s cultural treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This majestic building, constructed at the end of the XVIᵉ century in Renaissance style, was originally intended to house the city’s Stock Exchange. In 1785, it became the repository for documents relating to the administration of the Spanish colonies in America and the Philippines.

On a guided tour of the archives, you’ll get to explore this fascinating building, where 43,000 documents, consisting of nearly 80 million pages are kept. These documents follow three centuries of Spanish colonial history, including maritime charts, royal correspondence, logbooks, and treaties—all forming a priceless historical treasure trove. Highlights include letters signed by Christopher Columbus and original town plans of major cities of the Spanish empire, including Mexico City and Lima.

7. Catch a Flamenco Show in Triana

Another of Seville’s star districts, Triana is steeped in history and has an irresistible authenticity to it. Separated from the center by the Guadalquivir River, you can reach Triana by crossing the Isabel II Bridge, also known as the Triana Bridge.

Triana is well known in Spain for its colorful, decorative pottery, which is hundreds of years behind the tradition. The neighborhood is also one of the best places to experience flamenco in Seville, and indeed in Spain. Just strolling the city streets in the evening, you’ll see lots of bars and tablaos (flamenco venues), such as the Teatro Triana flamenco theater. In fact, you can catch a flamenco show at the Teatro Triana flamenco theater, and witness local dancers and singers bringing this art form to life!

We’d also recommend this Triana tapas tour, during which you’ll meet a guide who knows the ins and outs of Triana and will talk you through the area’s major landmarks, and bring you to the best local restaurants in the area!

8. Enjoy the Best Views of the City from the ‘Setas de Sevilla’

Right in the center of the city’s historical center, at the Plaza de la Encarnación is one of the most fascinating pieces of contemporary architecture in the city: the Setas de Sevilla, or ‘Mushrooms of Seville‘. Perhaps the largest wooden structure on the planet, this structure is designed to resemble a grove of trees. Inside, there are 5 floors to check out, including a museum, a market, restaurants, a bar, and also a viewpoint from the top. Grab yourself tickets to the Setas de Sevilla to enjoy some of the best views of the city. What’s more, if you visit after sunset, you’ll also enjoy a brilliant, immersive light show,

9. Visit La Casa de Pilatos – the Largest Private Palace in Seville

The Casa de Pilato is a 15th/16th-century palace and a fascinating example of Andalusian architecture—elegantly combining Italian Renaissance, Gothic and Mudéjar styles. Construction began in the late 1400s, under Pedro Enriquez de Quiñones, a Castilian aristocrat, and completed by the Dukes of Medinaceli, a noble Sevillian couple, and today remains one of Seville’s best-preserved private residences, right in the center of the city. Inside, you’ll find antique sculptures, frescoes, mosaic floors and beautiful artwork. However, our favorite part of the property is its gardens—a beautiful oasis filled with gorgeous vegetation and fountains.

10. Climb la Torre del Oro

Last on our list is the Torre del Oro, one of Seville’s most iconic structures built in the 13th century under the Almohad Dynasty. Over the centuries, this gorgeous tower overlooking the Guadalquivir River has had a wide variety of uses, including as a military watch tower and a prison, before eventually becoming a museum.

Today, the Torre del Oro is a cultural space that retraces the city’s maritime past and the historical significance of the Guadalquivir River. Here, you’ll discover exhibitions on period techniques, the traditional boats used in the region, and the importance of river trade to Seville and Andalusia.

Just under 100 steps to reach the top of the tower, visitors who make the climb are rewarded with a spectacular view of Seville—trust us, it’s well worth the trek! Look over the river and the city’s rooftops and look out to the Plaza de España in the distance. Even if you don’t climb to the top, consider going on a boat ride along the Guadalquivir River, which passes by the tower! Also, check out this Espacio Exploraterra + The Nao Victoria 500 Ticket—a museum right by the Torre del Oro, dedicated to the first journey around the world, aboard the famous ship the Nao Victoria.

Practical Seville Travel Tips

When should you travel to Seville?

If you’re lucky enough to visit Seville during the Feria de Abril, get ready to immerse yourself in one of Andalusia’s biggest parties! At this time of year, the streets come alive with the rhythms of flamenco music, colorful dancing, and lively processions. Casetas—private party tents—line the streets, offering delicious tapas and local wines. If you’re visiting during a different time of the year, the city is great to visit year-round. However, keep in mind that during the summer months, temperatures will often exceed 104°F (40°C), which will limit the amount you can do during the day.

How many days should I spend in Seville?

We recommend visiting Seville for 3-5 days to get the full experience and to see all of the major sights. However, if you only have 1 or 2 days, it’s still totally worth your while. Just make sure you at least catch the Alcázar, the Cathedral, and the Plaza de España.

Is it Seville or Sevilla?

Seville is the English translation of Sevilla (pronounced Seh-BEE-ya), which is the Spanish word for the city.

Day trips from Seville

As the capital of Andalusia, Seville is a great base for exploring other parts of the region, if you have a few days to play around with. We’d highly recommend going to Granada while you’re in Seville, primarily to see the Alhambra—one of the most spectacular attractions in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out this day trip to the Alhambra from Seville. Another great option is this day trip to Ronda and the White Towns of Andalusia, which will bring you to the historic city of Ronda, along with some of the most picturesque little villages in the region.

There you have it, those are our top 10 things to do in Seville! With so much to do, you’ll be left enamored with this gorgeous city. If you’re visiting and you’re still looking for things to do, check out more tours & activities from Seville with Civitatis.