The 15 Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain

Wander Around Barrio Santa Cruz

Considered the heart of Seville's tourist district, Santa Cruz is easily one of the most beautiful barrios (neighborhoods) in the whole of Spain. This neighborhood is home to many popular tourist sites, including the Seville Cathedral and the Real Alcázar, an old palace with stunning gardens to explore. You can spend an entire day in this neighborhood alone, walking through the streets, visiting tapas bars, or jumping from shop to shop, looking for unique handicrafts and ceramics.

Visit the Seville Cathedral

Also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, the Seville Cathedral is one of the city's most beloved landmarks. The Roman Catholic cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the world's largest Gothic cathedral. Don't skip a visit to the adjoining Alcázar palace, which has stunning gardens. The cathedral is typically open every day, but hours vary, especially during the summer months. General admission is 12 euros if you purchase at the ticket, as of September 2022.

Climb the Giralda Tower

The Giralda was once a minaret of a mosque that stood on the site of the Seville Cathedral. But now the minaret has been repurposed as the cathedral's bell tower and it's open to you to climb. In addition to the stunning views from the tower, the Giralda is also an excellent example of Seville's unique architectural styles: You can spot Moorish, Spanish, and even Roman influences. Admission to the tower is included as part of your ticket to visit the cathedral.

Visit the Alcazar

If you're a fan of "Game of Thrones," you'll immediately recognize the Real Alcázar de Sevilla as the Water Gardens of Dorne. But even if you've never seen the show, this incredible royal palace is worth a visit. Built for King Peter of Castile, a Christian king, the Alcázar was constructed on the site of a Muslim fortress. You can still see blends of the unique cultures and design today. The Alcázar is open seven days per week, except for Christmas and a handful of other holidays. Admission is 13.50 euros as of September 2022.

Take a Day Trip to Cadiz

Cadiz is an easy day trip from Seville, taking just under two hours by train. The ancient port city is home to the Spanish Navy and was once a bustling port for trade and exploration. Today, you can visit one of more than 100 watchtowers, the most iconic of which is the Torre Tavira. The city is also home to the 18th-century Cádiz Cathedral.

See a Flamenco Show

Seville is famous for flamenco, but a few places are better than others for catching a performance. Each tablao has a different style, but regardless, you'll end the night feeling exhilarated. Casa del Flamenco is one of the most popular venues, set on an Andalusian patio. There is no food and drink available at Casa del Flamenco, so if you want to imbibe while watching a performance, head to Los Gallos instead.

Have Tapas Around Seville

A trip to Seville isn't complete without sampling some of the city's tapas. There are a variety of restaurants spread throughout the city, with the Plaza los Terceros and Paseo Cataline areas being especially popular. If you want to taste old-school Sevillan food, El Rinconcillo has been in business since 1670 and offers a traditional selection of tapas as well as an extensive wine list. Meanwhile, La Azotea adds a modern spin to its tapas menu.

Learn About Bullfighting

You don't actually have to see a bullfight to learn about the controversial sport. If the history of bullfighting is interesting to you, visit the bullfighting museum at the bullring. The oldest bullring in the world, Real Maestranza, has an adjacent museum that includes costumes, photographs, and paintings dedicated to the spectacle.

Note: Bullfighting is deeply rooted in global historic traditions. But today, local public opinion leans against the tradition. Though the site includes information for tourists interested in attending the events, TripSavvy trusts its readers to make their own decisions on the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.

Relax at the Plaza de España

The Plaza de España is easily the most beautiful and extravagant plaza in Seville. Situated in the Parque de Maria Luisa, it was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition. The landmark blends Renaissance and Moorish Revival architecture styles. Today, it's a great spot for people-watching and general leisure.

Take a Dance Class at Sevilla Dance Center

The Sevilla Dance Center is a successful dance school in Seville's old town. Here, you can learn about many popular styles of dance, including flamenco, of course, but all classes in jazz, ballet, modern, and more.

People Watch at Templo Omnium

This is one of many traveler's favorite parts of Seville. The square is home to Iglesia de Omnium Sanctorum, an understated 13th-century church, a lively market, and a number of modest bars full of families who spill out onto the streets to enjoy the afternoon.

See Fine Art at the Museo de Bellas Artes

Seville's fine art museum showcases art from the Gothic era to the present day. The museum is housed in a 16th-century building that was a convent in the past. Today, it includes works by many of the great masters, including the likes of Goya and Murillo.

See the Murallas de Sevilla

The Murallas de Sevilla is a series of defensive walls that are built around the city. The walls date back to Roman times but have been updated, destroyed, and repaired countless times over the past hundred years. They're among the oldest sights in Seville.

Take the Kids to Isla Mágica

If you have kids, it's worth a visit to Isla Mágica, a theme park built on the grounds of the World's Fair. The park opened in 1997 and includes roller coasters, entertainers, and more.

Drink Sherry in Jerez

Jerez is an easy hour drive from Seville, making it a great day trip. The city is well-known for its sherry wine, a fortified wine that is among the most popular aperitifs in Spain. A visit to Bodegas Tradicion includes not only a tasting of four excellent varieties of sherry but also a tour of the on-site art gallery and snacks.