Seville is a city in Andalusia that radiates charm and passion. Known for its flamenco music, vibrant festivals, and stunning Moorish architecture, Seville offers a rich cultural experience. This Seville Travel Guide will help you explore the best of this enchanting city, including when to visit, where to stay, and what to do.
When to visit Seville
Seville’s charm is undeniable year-round, but your experience can vary greatly depending on the season. Each time of year brings its own unique flavor and opportunities to explore this vibrant city.
Spring: Spring is the best time to visit Seville. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the city bursts into bloom with orange blossoms. Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (April Fair) are major events that showcase Seville’s cultural vibrancy.
Summer: Summers in Seville can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). If you visit during this time, plan your activities for early morning or late evening and enjoy the city’s lively nightlife.
Fall: Fall offers warm temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoy the pleasant weather.
Winter: Winters are mild and relatively quiet, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The holiday season adds a festive charm to the city.
How many days to stay in Seville
To fully experience Seville, plan to stay for 2 to 3 days. This gives you enough time to explore the major attractions like Seville Cathedral and Giralda, the Alcázar, Plaza de España, and the Metropol Parasol. As well as enjoy a flamenco show.
How to get to Seville
Seville is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easily accessible from various parts of Spain and Europe.
By Air: Seville Airport (SVQ) is the main gateway, located about 10 km from the city center. It offers flights to major Spanish and European cities.
By Train: The high-speed AVE train connects Seville to Madrid in about 2.5 hours. Other train services connect Seville to cities like Barcelona, Malaga, and Cordoba.
By Bus: Several bus companies operate routes to Seville from various cities in Spain. The main bus station, Plaza de Armas, is centrally located.
How to move around Seville
Seville’s compact size and excellent public transport make it easy to get around the city.
Metro: Seville’s metro system has one line that covers key areas of the city. It’s a quick and efficient way to travel.
Bus: The city’s bus network is extensive and reliable, covering almost all neighborhoods.
Tram: The tram line runs from Plaza Nueva to San Bernardo, passing through important city landmarks.
Walking: The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable. Ride-sharing apps like Uber also operate in the city.
Where to stay in Seville
Seville offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique options, catering to every budget and preference.
Santa Cruz: Ideal for first-time visitors, this historic neighborhood is close to major attractions. Hotel Alfonso XIII – A luxurious hotel with Moorish-inspired architecture and top-notch amenities.
Triana: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and flamenco heritage, this area offers a more local experience. Hotel Zenit Sevilla – A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace.
Historic Center: The heart of Seville, offering easy access to major sights and a vibrant atmosphere. Casa del Rey Sabio – A beautifully restored historic hotel offering elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and personalized service.
Where to eat in Seville
Seville’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Andalusian dishes and innovative cuisine. Here are some must-try places to eat.
El Rinconcillo: One of the oldest tapas bars in Seville, famous for its traditional tapas and lively atmosphere.
La Azotea: A trendy spot offering creative Spanish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
Bar El Comercio: Known for its delicious churros and chocolate, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Eslava: A popular tapas bar offering a variety of delicious small plates and a vibrant ambiance.
La Brunilda: Renowned for its modern tapas and excellent service, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Things to do in Seville
Seville Cathedral and Giralda: The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, with stunning architecture and breathtaking views from the Giralda tower.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 11 am – 7 pm, Sunday 2:30 pm – 6 pm
- Admission fee: €12
- Tip: Buy tickets here to skip the line.
Alcázar: A magnificent palace with beautiful gardens, reflecting the city’s Moorish heritage.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 9:30 am – 5 pm (winter), 9:30 am – 7 pm (summer)
- Admission fee: €14.50
- Tip: Book a guided tour here to learn about the palace’s rich history.
Plaza de España: An impressive square with stunning architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride.
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission fee: Free
- Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Metropol Parasol: Also known as Las Setas, this modern structure offers panoramic views of the city and a lively market below. You can visit them from below for free at anytime, but if you want to go to the top you need a ticket.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 9:30 am – 12:30 am
- Admission fee: €15 This includes multisensory projection Feeling Sevilla, 360 viewpoint, and aurora show.
- Tip: Visit at sunset for the best views. You can book your tickets here.
Flamenco Show: Experience the passion and intensity of flamenco at one of the city’s many venues, such as Casa de la Memoria or Tablao El Arenal.
- Opening hours: Evening shows, typically starting around 7 pm and 9:30 pm
- Admission fee: Varies by venue, typically around €22-€42
- Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Guadalquivir River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river, offering a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks.
- Opening hours: Daily cruises, typically every hour from 11 am to 10 pm
- Admission fee: Around €17 for a 1-hour cruise
- Tip: Evening cruises offer beautiful views of the illuminated city.
Tips to visit Seville
Public transport pass: Consider getting a Seville Card or a multi-day travel pass for unlimited use of public transportation and discounts at major attractions.
Book in advance: Popular attractions like the Alcázar and Seville Cathedral can get crowded. Booking tickets online in advance saves time.
Stay hydrated: Especially in the hot summer months.
Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. Sun protection is also essential.
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