Top 15 Things to Do in Seville
1. Visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville
The Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the must-visit things to do in Seville. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is a palace complex that showcases centuries of architectural grandeur, blending Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Originally developed as a Moorish fort in the 10th century, it has served as a royal residence and is still used by the Spanish royal family today.
Highlights of the Alcázar include the intricate Mudejar architecture, stunning courtyards like the Patio de las Doncellas, and the lush gardens filled with fountains and orange trees. Don’t miss the Hall of Ambassadors, which is adorned with elaborate tilework and carvings.
To visit, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. The palace is open daily, and guided tours are available for a deeper understanding of its rich history.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased online through the official Alcázar website or at the entrance. Prices start at €13.50 for adults, with discounts for seniors and students.
2. Explore the Seville Cathedral and La Giralda
The Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and an essential part of the things to do in Seville. Built on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral was completed in the 16th century and holds the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The interior is awe-inspiring, with its massive altarpiece, high ceilings, and stained glass windows.
La Giralda, the bell tower of the cathedral, was originally a minaret for the mosque and is one of Seville’s most recognizable landmarks. Climbing the 35 ramps to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city.
Visiting the Seville Cathedral offers insight into Spain’s religious and architectural history, making it a perfect stop on your tour of things to do in Seville.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the cathedral. Prices start at €10 for general admission, with additional options for audio guides and guided tours.
3. Stroll Through Plaza de España
The Plaza de España is one of the most picturesque things to do in Seville. This grand semicircular plaza was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 and showcases a blend of Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival architecture. The plaza is surrounded by a large canal, where visitors can rent rowboats for a peaceful ride.
Each province of Spain is represented by a colorful ceramic tile alcove around the plaza. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and Seville’s pleasant weather.
The Plaza de España is located in Maria Luisa Park and is free to enter. It’s one of Seville’s top attractions for locals and tourists alike.
How to visit: The Plaza de España is open to the public all year round, and there’s no entrance fee. Boat rentals are available for a small fee.
4. Wander Through the Barrio Santa Cruz
Exploring the Barrio Santa Cruz is one of the quintessential things to do in Seville. This historic Jewish quarter is a maze of narrow, winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming courtyards filled with flowers. Once home to Seville’s Jewish community, it’s now a popular area for tourists to wander, shop, and dine.
Some highlights of Barrio Santa Cruz include the Plaza de los Venerables, the beautiful Church of Santa Maria la Blanca, and quaint squares like Plaza de Doña Elvira. It’s also close to major attractions like the Alcázar and the Seville Cathedral, making it a convenient area to explore.
How to visit: The Barrio Santa Cruz is free to explore on foot. Guided walking tours are also available if you’d like to learn more about the neighborhood’s history and legends.
5. Take in a Flamenco Show
Watching a traditional flamenco show is one of the cultural highlights among things to do in Seville. Flamenco originated in Andalusia, and Seville is one of the best places to experience this passionate art form. The combination of guitar, singing, and dance creates an emotional and powerful performance.
There are many venues in Seville where you can catch a flamenco show, ranging from intimate tablaos to larger theaters. Some of the most famous venues include Casa de la Memoria, El Arenal, and La Carbonería.
How to buy tickets: Tickets for flamenco shows can be purchased directly from the venues or online. Prices vary, starting at around €20 for an evening performance.
6. Visit the Torre del Oro
The Torre del Oro, or “Tower of Gold,” is a military watchtower located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Dating back to the 13th century, it was built by the Almohads to protect Seville from invaders and control access to the river. Today, it houses a naval museum where you can learn about Seville’s maritime history.
Climbing the Torre del Oro provides excellent views of the river and the city. It’s one of the top things to do in Seville for history buffs and those who appreciate stunning vistas.
How to buy tickets: Entry tickets are available at the tower for €3. Admission is free on Mondays.
7. Relax in Maria Luisa Park
Maria Luisa Park is a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Seville and a must-visit for anyone looking for things to do in Seville that involve nature and relaxation. The park was originally part of the private gardens of the San Telmo Palace and was donated to the city in the late 19th century. It was landscaped in preparation for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and is now one of Seville’s most beloved public spaces.
The park is home to fountains, statues, pavilions, and beautiful walking paths. It’s also a great place to rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll under the shade of orange and palm trees.
How to visit: The park is open to the public and free to enter. It’s conveniently located near the Plaza de España, making it an easy addition to your Seville itinerary.
8. Discover the Archivo General de Indias
History enthusiasts should add a visit to the Archivo General de Indias to their list of things to do in Seville. This grand building houses an extensive collection of documents related to the Spanish Empire’s exploration and colonization of the Americas. The archive was established in the late 18th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The collection includes original maps, letters, and reports from famous explorers like Columbus and Hernán Cortés. The building itself is also a fine example of Renaissance architecture.
How to visit: The archive is open to the public and free to enter. It’s located near the Seville Cathedral, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of the city’s historical sites.
9. Climb Metropol Parasol (Las Setas)
Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas (The Mushrooms), is a striking modern structure located in La Encarnación square. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Seville. Designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer, it is made of wood and consists of six giant mushroom-shaped parasols. Opened in 2011, it is considered the largest wooden structure in the world.
Visitors can take an elevator to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Seville from the viewing platform. There’s also an archaeological museum in the basement, showcasing Roman and Moorish ruins discovered during construction.
How to buy tickets: Tickets for the viewing platform can be purchased on-site for €5, which includes a drink at the terrace bar.
10. Explore the Casa de Pilatos
The Casa de Pilatos is a stunning example of Andalusian palace architecture and one of the hidden gems of things to do in Seville. Built in the 16th century, it combines elements of Italian Renaissance and Mudejar architecture. The palace is still privately owned but is open to the public for guided tours.
The interior of the palace is adorned with beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles), and the gardens are filled with lush greenery and fountains. It’s a tranquil retreat from the busy streets of Seville.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, starting at €10 for a general tour of the palace and gardens.
11. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville
Art lovers should make time for the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most important art museums in Spain and a key stop for things to do in Seville. Housed in a former 17th-century convent, the museum showcases works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with a particular focus on the Spanish Golden Age.
Highlights of the collection include paintings by Murillo, Velázquez, and Zurbarán. The peaceful courtyard of the museum is also worth exploring, offering a quiet spot to reflect on the art.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the museum for €1.50. Entry is free for EU citizens.
12. Take a Cruise on the Guadalquivir River
One of the most relaxing things to do in Seville is taking a cruise on the Guadalquivir River. This historic waterway has played a vital role in Seville’s history, serving as a major trade route and linking the city to the Atlantic Ocean. Today, visitors can enjoy leisurely boat cruises that offer a different perspective of the city’s landmarks, such as the Torre del Oro, the Triana neighborhood, and the Plaza de Toros.
Cruises typically last about an hour and provide commentary on the historical and cultural significance of the river and surrounding sights.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the docks or online, with prices starting at €16 for a standard cruise.
13. Visit the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza
The Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is one of the oldest and most prestigious bullrings in Spain and a key cultural site among the things to do in Seville. Built in the 18th century, this bullring has witnessed some of the most famous bullfights in the country’s history.
Visitors can tour the bullring and its museum, which showcases the history of bullfighting and famous matadors. The architecture of the bullring is impressive, with its bright white and yellow facade and elegant arches.
How to buy tickets: Tickets for tours are available at the entrance for €8. If you’re interested in attending a bullfight, tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
14. Explore the Triana Neighborhood
The Triana neighborhood is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-see among the things to do in Seville. Located across the Guadalquivir River, Triana has long been a center for pottery, flamenco, and traditional Seville culture. The neighborhood is filled with colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively bars and restaurants.
Key sights in Triana include the Castle of San Jorge, the Triana Market, and the Church of Santa Ana. It’s a great place to experience authentic Sevillian life away from the more touristy areas.
How to visit: Triana is best explored on foot. There are no entrance fees, and guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the area.
15. Visit the Hospital de los Venerables
The Hospital de los Venerables is a beautifully restored 17th-century building located in the Barrio Santa Cruz, making it a hidden gem among things to do in Seville. Originally built as a residence for retired priests, it is now a cultural center that houses art exhibitions and concerts.
The building’s Baroque architecture and peaceful courtyard make it a serene place to visit. The on-site art collection includes works by Diego Velázquez and other Spanish masters.
How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, with prices starting at €5 for general admission.