Who doesn’t immediately think of Seville thinking about the famous opera ‘Carmen’? It’s no coincidence that the composer chose the city’s impressive backdrop as the setting for his work. Seville is not only the capital of Andalusia in Spain, but also the cultural heart of the region. For centuries, this has been shown in its Moorish heritage, combined with the Spanish way of life, tapas and flamenco.

The compact city is ideal for an intensive and exciting city break, as Seville’s sights are almost seamlessly strung together – architectural masterpieces from all eras. Just leave your car behind and explore the city on foot. In this post, I would like to show you what awaits you in Seville. Of course, as usual, you will find a map with all the sights and highlights.

How many days should you plan for Seville?

Three to four days are ideal to see all of Seville’s sights at a leisurely pace and still having enough time for tapas and rooftop bars.

If you only have a weekend, it is of course possible to explore the city in two days, but this requires a tight schedule.

Spending more time in a beautiful place is always worthwhile, and Seville is definitely one of those destinations. The city is often referred to as the capital of flamenco. So where else could you experience it more consciously than here?

If you are planning a road trip through Andalusia, as we did, Seville is a wonderful starting point. You can find out more about this soon in a separate post about Andalusia.

When is the best time to visit Seville?

The ideal months are March to May and September to October, as the temperatures are pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. Evenings are not too cool to stroll through the city.

Summers are correspondingly hot (often over 35 °C). If you are planning your trip to Seville at this time, it is advisable to schedule all activities in the morning or evening.

Winters here are quite mild and you will encounter fewer tourists – so it’s also a great travel period if you want to explore Seville in peace.

My hotel tip in Seville: Querencia de Sevilla, Autograph Collection

This rooftop hotel is in a perfect, very central location, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Seville’s many sights. The hotel also has a large rooftop terrace with a pool and views of the tower of the famous Catedral de Sevilla. Enjoy this breathtaking view in the evening with a sunset rooftop drink.

My map with all Seville sights & tips

Must-see sights in Seville

Plaza de España – Seville’s most iconic square

It’s hard to imagine visiting Seville without strolling across the legendary Plaza de España at least once. It feels almost magical to experience this impressive square up close and not just look at it in a photo. Seville owes its monumental semicircular architecture to the great architect Aníbal González Álvarez-Ossorio in the run-up to the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. Framed by a beautiful park and surrounded by a 515-metre-long canal, the Plaza de España is one of the most spectacular monuments in Europe and, of course, one of Seville’s most popular sights.

An absolute classic: hire a rowing boat and enjoy a trip along the canal – past the majestic buildings and under the bridges – pure romance! Important: only cash payments are accepted for the boats, so make sure to pack some Euros. We paid €10 for a trip.

Real Alcázar de Sevilla – the most beautiful place in the city

As early as 913, the Moors laid the foundation stone for the royal palace – Real Alcázar de Sevilla. Over the centuries, it served as a residence for many rulers. Each of them expanded the huge complex, leaving behind traces of their culture and architectural style. As a result, the palace is a fascinating blend of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and is the oldest royal palace in Europe still in use today – when the Spanish king comes to Seville, he resides here.

The best way to see it is on foot. The palace gardens are also breathtakingly beautiful and extensive, so you can easily lose yourself in them.

Game of Thrones fans take note: The palace – and especially the gardens – served as the filming location for the water gardens of Dorne.

Of course, the Real Alcázar de Sevilla is one of, if not THE top attraction in Seville and therefore an absolute must-see! Due to its popularity, many visitors flock here every day, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance.

Catedral de Sevilla

Another highlight in Seville is the Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede, whose construction began in the early 15th century. After St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, it is the third largest church and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A main attraction inside is the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who found his final resting place here.

The Giralda – formerly a minaret and now the cathedral’s bell tower – is THE landmark of Seville. The way up is easy thanks to 35 ramps (instead of stairs) and offers a spectacular view over the rooftops of the city.

Metropol Parasol (‘Las Setas’) – a modern contrast to the old town

The Metropol Parasol (also known as Las Setas – ‘the mushrooms’) is a large avant-garde wooden artwork. Located in the heart of the city, it forms a big contrast to the otherwise historic architecture. Designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer H., it has become another landmark of Seville.

From the Metropol Parasol, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the city. It is especially beautiful here at sunset.

A ticket is required to access the viewing platform, which you can book here:

Triana district – authentic Seville

Seville is vibrant and fun-loving. Life itself gives the Sevillanos and Sevillanas plenty of reasons to simply enjoy themselves. In the afternoon, they like to meet up for a round of tapas – especially at the weekend. The Triana district, on the other side of the Guadalquivir, is particularly popular. It used to be a poor neighbourhood where sailors and craftsmen lived. Ceramic production was one of the most common crafts. This is still evident in the many colourful murals made from typical tiles that can be admired in Triana.

Today, it is the new hip district. From the early evening hours, the riverbank becomes lively, as the sunset light is particularly enchanting here. Triana is known for its top-notch tapas bars and its flamenco tradition. For me, it’s one of the best sights in Seville – and it is less touristy than the old town! Take a relaxing evening stroll through this beautiful neighbourhood and enjoy dinner in one of the traditional bars.

Tapas Bar Hopping Tour & Flamenco Show

To really immerse yourself in the diversity and enjoyment of tapas, we recommend a guided tour of several tapas bars – a culinary and cultural must-do in Seville. Guided because the guides take you to bars that only the locals know about, where you can enjoy the most authentic tapas and traditional flamenco. This is Seville at its best!

If you discover a passion for flamenco, I recommend visiting the world’s only flamenco museum, located here in Seville. Flamenco combines many cultures that have found their way into Spain over the centuries and is listed as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Bar & restaurant tips in Seville – local & unique

• The Tigers House – special tapas:

The creative tapas at The Tigers House are a modern interpretation of Andalusian cuisine. Highly recommended!

• Bodeguita Antonio Romero – very local & lively:

If you want to experience Andalusian temperament, you’re guaranteed to find it here. You can expect a great atmosphere in one of the hottest after-work spots for locals – which is why it’s also very popular during the week!

• Casa Moreno – a real insider tip:

At first glance, Casa Moreno looks like a small local supermarket. In fact, it houses a little tapas bar focusing on cold cuts, cheese, small tapas and drinks. It is very popular with students and is perfect for an aperitif before dinner.

• Los Seises Sevilla – drinks with a view of the cathedral:

You can enjoy a good drink in a stylish atmosphere at Los Seises Sevilla, which is in a wonderful location in the middle of the old town. The rooftop bar also offers a great view of the cathedral. It’s best to enjoy it at sunset – simply fantastic!

Alternatively the rooftop bar of the Querencia de Sevilla Hotel offers an even closer view at the cathedral and overlooks the entire old town!

Road trip through Andalusia

A road trip through Andalusia is more than just an exciting journey. This adventure gives you a feeling of freedom that you can hardly find anywhere else. Small hidden villages, dreamy landscapes and olive groves.

As already mentioned, Seville is the perfect starting point. The city has excellent infrastructure and good car rental connections.

You will soon find detailed information and tips in a separate Andalusia road trip post!

For whom is Seville the perfect destination?

Seville is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited. So many beautiful sights – embedded in the thrilling pulse of the city. Seville overwhelmed me!

Culture and architecture enthusiasts will definitely get their money’s worth and will love the city just as much!

Foodies and tapas lovers will enjoy the variety of delicacies and will certainly not manage to visit every tapas bar.

City travellers with a sense of atmosphere will also find the perfect mix of history and Spanish lifestyle in Seville.

Seville is therefore ideal for 3-4 intense, enjoyable days. I hope this article has piqued your curiosity about this enchanting city and provided you with valuable tips, the best sights and tours for your upcoming trip to Seville.

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