Seville
Spain
Why Seville is a great destination
Seville delivers big-city culture with a lighter touch—rich in heritage, food and nightlife, yet easier on crowds and budget.
- Atmosphere: Warm, unhurried and sociable—think late-evening paseos, guitar in shaded plazas and spontaneous flamenco—offering room to breathe compared with headline city breaks.
- Culture: World‑class sights without the crush: the Cathedral and Giralda, the Mudéjar splendour of the Alcázar, and the sweeping Plaza de España; add contemporary flair atop Metropol Parasol for skyline views.
- Food & value: Tapas crawls that still feel local—bodegas around El Salvador, casual bars in Alfalfa, vermouth and sherry by the glass—excellent quality at friendly prices.
- Neighbourhoods & traditions: Lose yourself in Santa Cruz’s lanes at dusk, cross to Triana for ceramics and authentic flamenco, and join the city’s rituals from Semana Santa to Feria de Abril—plan outside festival weeks for an even calmer feel.
Who should go to Seville?
If you crave monumental history, living traditions and late‑night street life, Seville will sweep you up. It blends palace‑filled heritage and flamenco with walkable neighbourhoods, superb tapas and sun‑soaked plazas. From festival devotees and romantics to football obsessives, this is one of Spain’s most atmospheric city breaks.
- History lovers: Trace a millennium in a day—from the Real Alcázar to the Cathedral and Giralda—an UNESCO trio steeped in empire, art and legend.
- Architecture buffs: Jump from Almohad masterpieces and Mudéjar palaces to Regionalist icons like Plaza de España and the bold Metropol Parasol—catnip for photographers.
- Romantics: Wander jasmine‑scented patios in Barrio Santa Cruz, drift along Plaza de España’s canal and feel late‑night flamenco’s elusive duende by the river.
- Festival‑goers: Time it for candlelit Semana Santa or the Feria de Abril’s all‑night casetas—when the whole city dresses up and the streets become the stage.
- Night owls: Tapas‑crawl till late, then swap to rooftop cocktails and open‑air clubs on La Cartuja that keep the music going until dawn.
- Football fans: Feel the city split for El Gran Derbi—Sevilla FC vs Real Betis—an atmosphere to rival Madrid’s clásico with Barcelona, plus tours of both storied stadiums.
Who should go to Seville?
If you crave monumental history, living traditions and late‑night street life, Seville will sweep you up. It blends palace‑filled heritage and flamenco with walkable neighbourhoods, superb tapas and sun‑soaked plazas. From festival devotees and romantics to football obsessives, this is one of Spain’s most atmospheric city breaks.
- History lovers: Trace a millennium in a day—from the Real Alcázar to the Cathedral and Giralda—an UNESCO trio steeped in empire, art and legend.
- Architecture buffs: Jump from Almohad masterpieces and Mudéjar palaces to Regionalist icons like Plaza de España and the bold Metropol Parasol—catnip for photographers.
- Romantics: Wander jasmine‑scented patios in Barrio Santa Cruz, drift along Plaza de España’s canal and feel late‑night flamenco’s elusive duende by the river.
- Festival‑goers: Time it for candlelit Semana Santa or the Feria de Abril’s all‑night casetas—when the whole city dresses up and the streets become the stage.
- Night owls: Tapas‑crawl till late, then swap to rooftop cocktails and open‑air clubs on La Cartuja that keep the music going until dawn.
- Football fans: Feel the city split for El Gran Derbi—Sevilla FC vs Real Betis—an atmosphere to rival Madrid’s clásico with Barcelona, plus tours of both storied stadiums.
Top things to do in Seville
Here are the unmissable highlights of Seville, distilled from the city’s rich history, culture and atmosphere. Tick these off to capture the essence of Andalusia’s capital.
- Walk the labyrinthine lanes of Barrio Santa Cruz and over the Triana Bridge for river views and tapas.
- Explore the Royal Alcázar’s Mudéjar palaces and perfumed gardens where peacocks roam.
- Visit Seville Cathedral and ascend the Giralda’s ramps for sweeping city panoramas.
- Take time at Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa to admire tilework, bridges and rowing boats.
- Hike the Guadalquivir riverside promenades from Torre del Oro to Calle Betis at golden hour.
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Top things to do in Seville
Here are the unmissable highlights of Seville, distilled from the city’s rich history, culture and atmosphere. Tick these off to capture the essence of Andalusia’s capital.
- Walk the labyrinthine lanes of Barrio Santa Cruz and over the Triana Bridge for river views and tapas.
- Explore the Royal Alcázar’s Mudéjar palaces and perfumed gardens where peacocks roam.
- Visit Seville Cathedral and ascend the Giralda’s ramps for sweeping city panoramas.
- Take time at Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa to admire tilework, bridges and rowing boats.
- Hike the Guadalquivir riverside promenades from Torre del Oro to Calle Betis at golden hour.
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3-day Seville itinerary
Day 1: Seville’s monumental core
Begin where Seville’s soul beats loudest: its cathedral quarter scented with orange blossom and the whisper of Moorish arches. Keep the pace unhurried and hydrate—Seville rewards those who linger.
- Morning: Pre-book first-entry tickets for the cathedral and Giralda to beat queues and heat; climb the Giralda’s gentle ramps for sweeping city views, then pause in the Patio de los Naranjos. Dress modestly if you’ll catch a service, and watch for pickpockets in crowds.
- Midday: Timed entry for the royal palace next door—work through the Palacio de Don Pedro, the cool Baños de Doña María de Padilla and the gardens (shade, fountains, peacocks). If it’s hot, plan a simple nearby lunch and a short siesta; if tickets sell out, swap in Casa de Pilatos for a Mudéjar–Renaissance fix.
- Afternoon: Drift the labyrinth of Santa Cruz: peek through open doorways for tiled patios, find the semi-circular Plaza del Cabildo off Avenida de la Constitución, and refuel with a coffee or vermouth. Golden-hour light makes photos glow.
- Evening: Tapas-hop around Plaza del Salvador and Alfalfa (stand at the bar for the liveliest ambience), then book an intimate flamenco later (small tablaos or a no-frills bar performance). In Semana Santa, expect diversions and dense crowds; be silent as processions pass.
Day 2: River, parks and neighbourhood life
Cross the Guadalquivir for craft traditions and views, then loop back through grand 20th‑century showpieces. This day balances headline sights with space to breathe.
- Morning: Start in Triana Market for breakfast (toast with tomato and olive oil) and browse ceramics workshops behind it; stroll Calle Betis for cityfront views or pop into the Torre del Oro and walk the river promenade. Weekend mornings feel particularly local.
- Midday: Head to Plaza de España and María Luisa Park—row a boat, then wander shaded avenues to the museums at Plaza de América. Sunscreen and water are essential in summer; avoid the persistent rosemary sellers with a firm “No, gracias.”
- Afternoon: Return to the centre for Hospital de la Caridad (baroque jewel) or Casa de Pilatos if you skipped it yesterday. Aim for sunset atop Metropol Parasol; pre-book the walkway and see the Roman Antiquarium below if you’re a history buff.
- Evening: Dine around the Alameda de Hércules (relaxed, bohemian terraces; good for vegetarians and LGBTQ+ venues) or along the river if you prefer views. Football fans can swap this for a match or a stadium tour on game days—check transport and kick-off times, and avoid ultra sections.
Day 3: Contemporary culture, choice and calm
Savour everyday Sevillanía—markets, coffee rituals, and a choose‑your‑own afternoon before a soft landing by the river. Adjust for the season: earlier starts in summer, slower rambles in spring and autumn.
- Morning: Join locals on Calle Feria: if it’s Thursday, browse the El Jueves flea market; otherwise visit the food market and continue to the Macarena district and surviving city walls. Warm up with churros and chocolate if it’s cool.
- Midday: Choose a cultural thread: the Museum of Fine Arts (Spain’s second finest), the Archivo de Indias for colonial history, or contemporary art at the Cartuja monastery across the river. Lunch late (after 2 pm) and plan shade time in peak summer.
- Afternoon: Pick one: a soothing Arab baths session, a stadium tour (Sánchez‑Pizjuán or Benito Villamarín; book online and use metro/bus), or rooftop downtime with a dip if your hotel has a pool. In April, slot in a daylight visit to the Feria grounds for the carriage parade vibe.
- Evening: Stroll the river at sunset from the Torre del Oro to Triana Bridge; dine in Triana (seafood and classic fried fish are standouts). Finish with a last flamenco fix or a rooftop nightcap; in high summer, late‑night open‑air terrazas on La Cartuja run until dawn, so shift your evening later.
Notes for all seasons:
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Front‑load mornings, embrace the late evening; carry water and rest indoors 1–5 pm.
- Semana Santa: Book stays and key tickets early; streets close and processions reshape routes—allow generous walking time.
- Feria de Abril: Nightlife moves to the fairgrounds; public casetas welcome visitors—dress smartly, try rebujito, and dance sevillanas.
Share Seville with friends and start planning your trip together.
Food and drink in Seville
Seville eats late and social: the city’s tapas culture turns dinner into a relaxed bar‑to‑bar ritual. Expect simple, bold flavours—olive oil, tomatoes, ibérico pork—served in lively bodegas, markets and terrazas. It’s affordable, standing‑room friendly, and all about sharing.
- Espinacas con garbanzos – A comforting mix of spinach and chickpeas with garlic, cumin and paprika; best mopped up with bread at a noisy bodega counter.
- Salmorejo – Silky cold tomato and bread purée topped with chopped egg and jamón; the perfect heat‑beater on shady terrazas or café patios.
- Montadito de pringá – A warm mini roll stuffed with rich slow‑cooked meats; grab one mid‑tapeo in tiny tabernas around Calle Feria or Santa Cruz.
- Manzanilla (fino sherry) – Crisp, dry and saline; sip it chilled in traditional bars or try a rebujito at fiestas, and pair with jamón or fried fish from the market.
Eat like a local: Discover Seville top-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor
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Food and drink in Seville
Seville eats late and social: the city’s tapas culture turns dinner into a relaxed bar‑to‑bar ritual. Expect simple, bold flavours—olive oil, tomatoes, ibérico pork—served in lively bodegas, markets and terrazas. It’s affordable, standing‑room friendly, and all about sharing.
- Espinacas con garbanzos – A comforting mix of spinach and chickpeas with garlic, cumin and paprika; best mopped up with bread at a noisy bodega counter.
- Salmorejo – Silky cold tomato and bread purée topped with chopped egg and jamón; the perfect heat‑beater on shady terrazas or café patios.
- Montadito de pringá – A warm mini roll stuffed with rich slow‑cooked meats; grab one mid‑tapeo in tiny tabernas around Calle Feria or Santa Cruz.
- Manzanilla (fino sherry) – Crisp, dry and saline; sip it chilled in traditional bars or try a rebujito at fiestas, and pair with jamón or fried fish from the market.
Eat like a local: Discover Seville top-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor
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Where to stay in Seville
Choosing the right barrio shapes your Seville stay: each area has its own pace, noise level, and vibe. Focus on what you want to be near—monuments, tapas lanes, nightlife, or quiet river views—rather than hotel brands.
- Barrio Santa Cruz — postcard-pretty medieval lanes by the Cathedral/Alcázar; romantic and central for first‑timers, but busy, pricey, and can be noisy late.
- El Arenal & Centro — classic tapas streets and shopping between the Cathedral and river; great for food lovers and short stays who want buzz without Santa Cruz crowds.
- Triana — authentic, flamenco‑tinged, across the bridge with riverfront strolls; ideal for culture seekers and families wanting local life and calmer nights.
- Alameda de Hércules/Macarena — boho, LGBTQ+ friendly, with late‑night terraces and indie bars; suits younger travellers and creatives, still walkable to the centre.
Find places to stay in Seville on Booking.com
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Where to stay in Seville
Choosing the right barrio shapes your Seville stay: each area has its own pace, noise level, and vibe. Focus on what you want to be near—monuments, tapas lanes, nightlife, or quiet river views—rather than hotel brands.
- Barrio Santa Cruz — postcard-pretty medieval lanes by the Cathedral/Alcázar; romantic and central for first‑timers, but busy, pricey, and can be noisy late.
- El Arenal & Centro — classic tapas streets and shopping between the Cathedral and river; great for food lovers and short stays who want buzz without Santa Cruz crowds.
- Triana — authentic, flamenco‑tinged, across the bridge with riverfront strolls; ideal for culture seekers and families wanting local life and calmer nights.
- Alameda de Hércules/Macarena — boho, LGBTQ+ friendly, with late‑night terraces and indie bars; suits younger travellers and creatives, still walkable to the centre.
Find places to stay in Seville on Booking.com
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Good to know before you go to Seville
Travel in Seville is straightforward: the historic centre is compact, public transport is simple, and most sights cluster within walking distance. A few practical details on budgets, moving around and timing your visit will make your trip even smoother.
- Affordability: Seville is good value—tapas cost €3–5, a casual meal with drinks is €15–25 per person, a mid‑range dinner €25–40, and decent central hotels from ~€90–150 per night (prices can triple in festival weeks).
- Transport: The old town is very walkable, with tram/metro/buses for longer hops and the airport 20–30 minutes away; high‑speed trains make easy day trips to Córdoba (~45 min), Jerez (~1 h) and Cádiz (~1 h 45), while a car is only useful for rural outings like Doñana or the white villages.
- Language: Spanish is the main language, and English is widely understood in hotels, major sights and many restaurants, though less so in small neighbourhood bars—simple Spanish greetings help.
- Safety & comfort: It’s generally very safe and friendly for families and solo travellers, but keep an eye on belongings in crowds (around the Cathedral and during Semana Santa/Feria), avoid driving in the centre, and plan around intense summer heat by sightseeing early or late.
- Crowds: Expect the biggest crowds in spring (March–May, especially during Semana Santa and the Feria) and on autumn weekends; summer is quieter by day but lively at night due to the heat, while winter is calmest and best for low prices.
Good to know before you go to Seville
Travel in Seville is straightforward: the historic centre is compact, public transport is simple, and most sights cluster within walking distance. A few practical details on budgets, moving around and timing your visit will make your trip even smoother.
- Affordability: Seville is good value—tapas cost €3–5, a casual meal with drinks is €15–25 per person, a mid‑range dinner €25–40, and decent central hotels from ~€90–150 per night (prices can triple in festival weeks).
- Transport: The old town is very walkable, with tram/metro/buses for longer hops and the airport 20–30 minutes away; high‑speed trains make easy day trips to Córdoba (~45 min), Jerez (~1 h) and Cádiz (~1 h 45), while a car is only useful for rural outings like Doñana or the white villages.
- Language: Spanish is the main language, and English is widely understood in hotels, major sights and many restaurants, though less so in small neighbourhood bars—simple Spanish greetings help.
- Safety & comfort: It’s generally very safe and friendly for families and solo travellers, but keep an eye on belongings in crowds (around the Cathedral and during Semana Santa/Feria), avoid driving in the centre, and plan around intense summer heat by sightseeing early or late.
- Crowds: Expect the biggest crowds in spring (March–May, especially during Semana Santa and the Feria) and on autumn weekends; summer is quieter by day but lively at night due to the heat, while winter is calmest and best for low prices.
Best time to go to Seville
Seasonality in Seville is pronounced: spring’s blossom and major festivals draw the biggest crowds, while high summer brings intense heat and a distinctly nocturnal rhythm. Autumn mellows into warm days with lighter footfall before cooler, quieter winters.
- Spring: Warm (around 20–28°C), heady with orange blossom; peak crowds and prices during Semana Santa and Feria; the city at its most atmospheric.
- High Summer: Very hot (often 35–45°C); quieter by day with life shifting late into the night; fewer daytime visitors and occasional hotel deals, buzzy after dark.
- Winter: Cool–mild (about 10–18°C) with occasional rain; lowest crowds and best value; cosy tapas-bar vibe and a relaxed, local feel.
Best time to go to Seville
Seasonality in Seville is pronounced: spring’s blossom and major festivals draw the biggest crowds, while high summer brings intense heat and a distinctly nocturnal rhythm. Autumn mellows into warm days with lighter footfall before cooler, quieter winters.
- Spring: Warm (around 20–28°C), heady with orange blossom; peak crowds and prices during Semana Santa and Feria; the city at its most atmospheric.
- High Summer: Very hot (often 35–45°C); quieter by day with life shifting late into the night; fewer daytime visitors and occasional hotel deals, buzzy after dark.
- Winter: Cool–mild (about 10–18°C) with occasional rain; lowest crowds and best value; cosy tapas-bar vibe and a relaxed, local feel.
Share Seville with friends and start planning your trip together.
How to get to Seville
By Air
- Seville Airport (SVQ, “San Pablo”) – 10 km NE of the centre.
- 20–25 min by taxi (approx €25–€30; more late nights/holidays).
- EA Airport Bus every 12–20 min; 30–35 min to centre. Key stops: Santa Justa (main rail station), San Bernardo/Prado de San Sebastián, Paseo Colón (Torre del Oro). Single ~€4–€5.
- Alternative airports
- Jerez (XRY) – 85 km; 1–1¼ h by car; direct regional trains to Seville ~1 h 10.
- Málaga (AGP) – 205 km; 2–2½ h by car; suburban train to Málaga María Zambrano then high‑speed/Avant to Seville (total ~2½–3 h).
- Faro, Portugal (FAO) – ~200 km; 2½–3 h by car/bus.
- Madrid (MAD) – frequent flights; transfer by AVE high‑speed train from Madrid Atocha to Seville (2½ h).
By Train
- Main station: Sevilla–Santa Justa (high‑speed/long‑distance). Secondary: San Bernardo (suburban/MD; metro & tram interchange).
- Operators: Renfe (AVE/Avlo/Avant/Alvia/Media Distancia) and Iryo on the Madrid–Seville high‑speed line.
- Typical journey times (to/from Santa Justa)
- Madrid (Puerta de Atocha–Almudena Grandes): 2 h 20–2 h 45 (very frequent daily).
- Barcelona Sants: ~5 h 30–6 h 15 (direct services daily).
- Málaga María Zambrano: ~1 h 55–2 h 10 (Avant).
- Córdoba: ~40–55 min (AVE/Avant).
- Granada: ~2 h 30–3 h (direct or via Córdoba).
- Cádiz: ~1 h 40–1 h 55 (MD/Alvia).
- Book: renfe.com or iryo.eu. Seat reservations required on long‑distance services.
By Bus
- Main terminals:
- Plaza de Armas (NW edge of centre): long‑distance (ALSA, Socibus, FlixBus) incl. Portugal and western Andalusia.
- Prado de San Sebastián (by the old town): regional services (Damas, Comes, etc.).
- Sample times (operator dependent)
- Lisbon: ~6–7 h (direct daily).
- Faro (Algarve): ~2½–3½ h.
- Granada: ~3 h.
- Málaga: ~2 h 45–3 h 15.
- Cádiz: ~1 h 45–2 h 15.
- Córdoba: ~2–2 h 30.
By Car
- Main routes
- A‑4 (E‑5) from Madrid via Córdoba to Seville (~5–5½ h; ~530 km).
- A‑49 to Huelva (~1 h) and Portugal/Algarve (A22 electronic tolls in Portugal).
- A‑92 to Antequera/Málaga (via A‑92M, ~2–2½ h) and Granada (~2½–3 h).
- AP‑4/A‑4 to Jerez (~1 h) and Cádiz (~1 h 20); tolls removed.
- Practicalities: the historic centre has restricted access and very narrow streets—use edge‑of‑centre car parks (e.g., Prado de San Sebastián, Cano y Cueto, Plaza de Armas) or book accommodation with parking.
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