15 Amazing Things to Do in Seville You Can’t Miss

Seville is packed with incredible sights, rich history, and the kind of energy that makes you want to explore every corner. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, there’s always something new to discover.

But with so many options, how do you know what’s actually worth your time?

Here are my picks for the absolute best things to do in Seville to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Visit the Real Alcázar of Seville

The Royal Alcázar stands as one of Spain’s most beautiful royal palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally built as a fort in the 10th century, it’s evolved through many additions by different rulers over the centuries.

You’ll be amazed by the detailed Islamic architecture and lush gardens that make this palace truly special. The intricate tile work, carved plaster, and wooden ceilings in the Mudéjar Palace section show off incredible craftsmanship.

Don’t miss the Ambassador’s Hall with its gorgeous gold dome ceiling, or the peaceful gardens with orange trees, elegant pools, and hidden grottoes. In fact, these gardens even served as a filming location for Game of Thrones!

It’s best to buy tickets for the Real Alcázar online ahead of time to avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. As the most popular sightseeing spot in Seville, tickets often sell out well in advance – so you don’t want to rock up on the day and expect to buy a ticket then and there, as you may be disappointed.

2. Explore Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral stands as the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site. When you enter this massive structure, you’ll immediately notice its impressive scale – the main nave reaches a height of 42 meters (138 feet).

The cathedral contains Christopher Columbus’s tomb, supported by four statues representing the kingdoms of Spain. And don’t miss the chance to climb La Giralda, the cathedral’s bell tower offering amazing views of the city (which I’ll get to in a moment!).

Inside, you’ll find 80 chapels and countless art treasures including paintings by Murillo and Goya. The beautiful altarpiece is considered the largest and richest in the Christian world, featuring intricate carvings that tell Biblical stories.

The cathedral was built between 1401 and 1528 on the site of a former mosque. You can still see elements of the original structure, including the Orange Tree Courtyard and parts of the minaret incorporated into La Giralda.

3. Climb La Giralda tower

The iconic bell tower of Seville Cathedral offers one of the best views of the city. Originally built as a minaret during the Moorish period, it was later converted when Christians reconquered the area.

What makes this tower special is its unique ramp system instead of stairs. The design allowed guards to ride horses to the top – making your climb much easier than typical tower steps.

At 104 meters (341 feet) tall, you’ll need some energy for the ascent, but the panoramic views are worth every step. You can spot Plaza de España, Alcázar, and the winding streets of Santa Cruz from above.

All that said, lines can be long, so it’s a good idea to buy Cathedral and Giralda tickets online ahead of time to save yourself the wait. Take your time here – it’s not a place you’ll want to rush.

4. Stroll through Barrio Santa Cruz

The historic Jewish Quarter of Seville offers some of the city’s most beautiful streets and plazas. You’ll get lost in a lovely maze of narrow alleys, flower-filled courtyards, and tiny squares with orange trees.

This charming neighborhood lets you escape the busy tourist spots. The whitewashed buildings create perfect shade during hot summer days – a smart design from centuries ago that still works perfectly.

Stop at a small café for refreshing tinto de verano (the more popular drink locally than sangria!) or coffee while watching locals go about their day. Many hidden corners reveal crafty shops selling handmade items unique to Andalusia.

Don’t miss Plaza de Santa Cruz and Plaza de los Venerables. These small squares showcase the authentic character of old Seville with their traditional architecture and relaxed atmosphere.

5. See a flamenco show

Seville is the birthplace of flamenco, making it the perfect place to watch this passionate art form. In fact, I’d argue that it’s one of the main reasons why you should visit Seville.

After all, the mix of guitar music, singing, and dancing creates an unforgettable experience that’s deeply tied to Andalusian culture.

You can catch performances at dedicated venues called tablaos throughout the city. It’s smart to book tickets ahead though, especially during peak tourist seasons when shows sell out quickly.

(Or you could even sign up for a flamenco class while you’re here!)

6. Discover Plaza de España

Plaza de España stands as one of Seville’s most impressive landmarks, built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition. The massive half-circle complex features a mix of Art Deco and Renaissance Revival styles that you’ll immediately notice.

You can rent small boats to row along the canal that runs through the plaza – it’s a fun way to see the architecture from a different angle. The colorful ceramic tiles depicting historical scenes from each Spanish province are worth examining up close.

Take your time walking under the covered porticos and across the bridges that span the water. The plaza has appeared in several famous films including Star Wars Episode II and Lawrence of Arabia.

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get better photos. It’s free to enter, making it a must-see spot during your Seville trip.

7. Relax in María Luisa Park

This beautiful green oasis in the heart of Seville offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. The park covers 100 acres and was designed for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, giving it a rich history and thoughtful layout.

You’ll find charming paths lined with Mediterranean trees, ornate fountains, and colorful flower beds throughout the grounds. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along the avenues, adding to the park’s romantic atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Monument to Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer – it’s a favorite spot for locals to rest and reflect. The Plaza de España sits at the park’s edge, making it easy to combine both attractions in one visit.

Pack a picnic and claim one of the many benches or grassy areas for a lazy afternoon. The park’s cool shade is especially welcome during Seville’s hot summer months.

8. Explore Triana neighborhood

Cross the Isabel II Bridge to reach Triana, a historic district with its own unique identity. This former working-class area was home to sailors and potters for centuries, giving it a down-to-earth character that feels different from the touristy city center.

Wander along Calle Betis for beautiful views of the Guadalquivir River and Seville’s skyline. The street comes alive at night with busy bars and restaurants where you can try authentic tapas.

Don’t miss the local ceramic shops displaying colorful pottery – a Triana tradition dating back to Roman times. The Triana Market stands where the infamous Spanish Inquisition headquarters once stood, now offering fresh produce and small food stalls.

Speaking of food, this Spanish cooking class with a tour of Triana Food Market is a great option to take your visit to the Market to another level. The hands-on cooking class is a great way to get some tips to impress your friends with once you get back home!

Visit the Centro Cerámica Triana museum to learn about the neighborhood’s pottery heritage. The area also holds strong flamenco roots, so keep an eye out for impromptu performances in local bars.

9. Walk along the Guadalquivir River

The Guadalquivir River flows through the heart of Seville, offering a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. You’ll find lovely promenades on both banks where locals and tourists alike take leisurely strolls, especially during sunset when the light turns golden across the water.

Rent a bike or walk along the tree-lined paths that follow the river’s course. The riverbanks are dotted with cafés and bars where you can stop for a drink while watching boats glide by.

FYI: This sightseeing eco cruise along the Guadalquivir River is a great way to relax and enjoy Seville’s skyline from the water. Grab a drink, sit back, and watch the history glide by.

Don’t miss the colorful Triana Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in the city. It connects the historic center with the lively Triana neighborhood and looks particularly beautiful when lit up at night.

The riverside also hosts several gardens and green spaces perfect for a quick rest. You’ll often find street performers and artists adding to the relaxed atmosphere that makes this area special.

10. Visit Metropol Parasol

The Metropol Parasol stands out as one of Seville’s most remarkable modern structures. Completed in 2011, this wooden landmark is known locally as “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms) because of its unique mushroom-like shape.

You can take an elevator to the top for amazing views of Seville’s historic center. The walkways wind through the structure and offer great photo spots of the city’s skyline.

Don’t miss the archaeological museum beneath the structure, which displays Roman and Moorish ruins discovered during construction. The basement level houses these well-preserved findings behind glass floors.

The complex also includes restaurants, bars, and a farmers market. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the wooden structure glows in the golden light.

11. Enjoy tapas at El Rinconcillo

As the oldest bar in Seville, having been established in 1670, El Rinconcillo stands out as one of Seville’s top tapas spots. With its classic offerings on traditional Andalusian cuisine, even after this long, it’s still a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Don’t miss their wine selection, which perfectly complements the food offerings. The staff can help you pair your tapas with just the right Spanish wine to elevate your meal.

The atmosphere is lively but comfortable, with a mix of standing seating (around barrels) and tables. You might want to arrive early or make a reservation, as it can get packed during peak dining hours.

12. Tour the Archivo de Indias

This UNESCO World Heritage site houses millions of documents related to Spain’s colonial period in the Americas and Philippines. You’ll find maps, letters, and records dating from the 16th to 19th centuries – a true paradise for history buffs.

The building itself is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture designed by Juan de Herrera in the late 16th century. It was originally built as a merchants’ exchange but was repurposed in 1785 to store valuable historical documents.

Entrance is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly option during your Seville visit. The archive frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight different aspects of Spain’s colonial history.

Audio guides are available to help you understand the significance of what you’re seeing. The cool marble interior also offers a welcome break from Seville’s heat during summer months.

13. See art at the Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts in Seville houses one of Spain’s top art collections in a beautiful former convent from the 17th century. You’ll find masterpieces by Spanish painters like Murillo, Zurbarán, and Velázquez displayed across its elegant rooms.

The museum’s collection spans from medieval times to the 20th century, with particularly impressive works from the Golden Age of Spanish painting. Don’t miss the magnificent Baroque pieces that showcase Seville’s artistic heritage.

Art lovers can appreciate the thoughtful organization of the galleries, making it easy to follow the evolution of Spanish art through the centuries. The peaceful courtyards and architecture of the building add to the experience.

You won’t need more than a couple of hours to explore the highlights – making it a perfect addition to your Seville itinerary when you want a break from the heat.

14. Enjoy a rooftop sunset

There’s nothing quite like watching the sun go down over Seville’s beautiful skyline. The city offers several rooftop bars where you can sip a drink while the sky changes colors above the Cathedral and historic center.

La Terraza del EME provides one of the most talked-about views in town. You’ll be just across from the Cathedral, giving you a front-row seat to see the golden hour light play across its ancient stones.

Pura Vida is another excellent option for sunset cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

These rooftop experiences are especially memorable on your final evening in Seville. You can reflect on your trip while watching the city transition from day to night – a perfect way to say goodbye to this incredible Spanish city.

15. Explore the Alameda de Hércules

This tree-lined plaza is Seville’s oldest public garden, dating back to 1574. Once a shady spot with a questionable reputation, it’s now a cool hangout where locals and visitors mix freely.

You’ll notice two Roman columns topped with statues of Hercules and Julius Caesar that mark the northern entrance. They’re impossible to miss and make great photo opportunities during your visit.

The Alameda comes alive at night with busy bars, restaurants, and a fun atmosphere. It’s especially popular on weekends when families stroll around early evening before the party crowd takes over.

Street performers often put on shows here, adding to the lively vibe. You’ll find everything from musicians to dancers entertaining passersby.

And there are plenty of outdoor terraces where you can grab a drink and people-watch – a perfect way to experience local life in Seville.