Exploring Seville, Spain
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- May 5
- 11 min read
Seville, the capital of Andalusia in southern Spain, truly captures the spirit and essence of Spain. It is known for its rich history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Come meander with me to discover the highlights and some tips to help you make your visit memorable.
Seville has a rich and diverse history, spanning thousands of years. The Romans founded the city in the 1st century CE, and it has been ruled by the Visigoths, Moors, and Christians over the centuries. The town played a crucial role in discovering the New World, as Christopher Columbus received funding from the Spanish monarchy in Seville for his famous voyage.
Seville's culture blends traditions, including Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences. The city is famous for its flamenco music and dance, originating in the Andalusian region. Seville is also known for its traditional bullfighting, which takes place in the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza.
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Unique Events
Seville is home to many unique events and traditions that attract tourists from all over the world. One of the most famous events is Semana Santa, or Holy Week, which takes place in the week before Easter. This week, the city comes alive with processions and ceremonies, featuring elaborate floats, religious statues, and traditional costumes. My most recent visits to Seville were just before and just after Holy Week, but I was treated to many Semana Santa events during my time in Cadiz and Ronda.
Another unique event is the Feria de Abril, or April Fair, two weeks after Holy Week. The fair is a week-long celebration of local culture, featuring flamenco music and dance, traditional costumes, and plenty of food and drink. It takes place in a large fairground, and visitors can enjoy various activities, from bullfighting to carnival rides. If you are considering visiting Seville during peak seasons like the Semana Santa or the Feria de Abril, be aware that hotels and events are often booked up to a year in advance, and prices are at their highest. It's advisable to plan and book your trip well in advance to secure your accommodations and tickets.
You'll also want to consider where to stay. Accommodations near one of the many churches participating in the processions will likely experience streets clogged with hundreds of participants, viewers and marching bands. Participants gather up to an hour before the procession starts and hang around following the events to socialize.
Tourist Sites in Seville, Spain
Seville has many beautiful and historic tourist sites, ranging from grand palaces to stunning cathedrals.
Real Alcazar
One of the most popular sites is the Real Alcázar, a Moorish palace built in the 14th century. The palace features beautiful gardens, intricate tilework, and grand halls, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Spanish history and architecture. Check out my post on the palace here
Catedral de Sevilla
The Cathedral of Seville, also known as the Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. This stunning 15th-century Gothic cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It has many significant features and artworks, including Christopher Columbus's tomb and the Giralda bell tower.
Columbus' tomb is located in the cathedral's north transept and is a stunning masterpiece of funerary art. Arturo Mélida designed the tomb with four figures representing the Castile, Leon, Aragon, and Navarra kingdoms. Visitors to the cathedral can pay their respects to Columbus and learn about his contributions to the history of Seville and Spain.
Another significant feature of the Cathedral of Seville is the Giralda bell tower. Initially, the tower was a minaret for a mosque that stood on the site before the cathedral was constructed. Today, the tower symbolizes Seville and is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning views of Seville and the surrounding area.
To plan a visit to the Cathedral of Seville, tourists can purchase tickets in advance from the official website. The cathedral is open daily, with different operating hours depending on the season. Visitors can also take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance. Since the Cathedral is a very popular site, booking your tickets in advance is recommended, especially during high season and Holy Week.
Torre del Oro
The Torre del Oro (Gold Tower) is a military watchtower on the banks of the Guadalquivir River in Seville. It dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Almohad Caliphate to control access to the river. Over the years, the tower has served many purposes, including as a prison and a museum. Today, it is open to visitors.
The tower is named after the golden tiles that once covered its exterior. Visitors can explore its exhibits and displays to learn about the tower's history and role in Seville's past.
If you're feeling a bit more energetic, climb to the top of the Torre del Oro and enjoy stunning views of Seville and the Guadalquivir River. From the top of the tower, visitors can see many of Seville's other iconic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Seville and the Giralda bell tower.
Plaza de España
This grand plaza, built for the 1929 World's Fair, is a stunning example of Neo-Mudéjar architecture and has become a gathering place for locals and visitors.
The complex is built around a central plaza surrounded by a moat and a stunning fountain. The Plaza de España is also home to many tiled alcoves, each representing a different province in Spain.
Today, the Plaza de España is a popular destination for tourists and locals. Enjoy a stroll around the plaza, the stunning architecture and the beautiful gardens. The plaza is also home to many shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat or shop. You might want to rent a rowboat for a self-propelled ride around the moat.
Plaza de Toros
The Plaza de Toros, also known as the Maestranza Bullring, was constructed in the 18th century and has since become a central location for bullfighting in Spain. Bullfighting has been an integral part of the region's culture for centuries. We were not interested in seeing a fight, but were intrigued to learn more about this brutal sport to understand it culturally.
The Plaza de Toros is one of Spain's oldest and most important bullfighting arenas. It has a seating capacity of 14,000 people and has hosted some of the most famous bullfights in the world. The building is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with intricate details and stunning city views. Visitors can take a guided tour of the bullring and learn about the history of bullfighting in Seville and the significance of the Maestranza Bullring.
Visitors who are interested in attending a bullfight can purchase tickets in advance from the official website. The bullfighting season in Seville runs from April to September, with most fights on Sundays.
Plaza del Cabildo
Plaza del Cabildo is a charming and somewhat hidden semi-circular plaza in the heart of Seville, steps away from the bustling Cathedral. Accessed through discreet archways from surrounding streets, the plaza offers a tranquil escape with its elegant three-story building featuring painted arcades in hues of white, orange, yellow, and gold. A central fountain adds to the serene atmosphere, while a remaining section of the old Moorish city wall provides a historical backdrop. Lined with small shops, including those selling convent sweets and antiques, the plaza comes alive on Sunday mornings with a popular market for collectors of stamps, coins, and other curiosities.
Setas de Sevilla
The Setas de Sevilla, officially known as Metropol Parasol, is a striking modern architectural marvel in the Plaza de la Encarnación. This massive, predominantly wooden structure, designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer, resembles giant mushrooms, hence its popular nickname "Las Setas" (The Mushrooms). Completed in 2011, it's one of the largest wooden structures globally, featuring six interconnected parasols that shade the plaza below. The Setas de Sevilla houses a traditional market, restaurants, an elevated public events square, and an archaeological museum in its basement, the Antiquarium, which displays Roman and Moorish remains discovered during its construction, offering a fascinating blend of contemporary design and historical preservation. The rooftop walkway provides panoramic views of Seville.
Take a Boat Tour along the River
Seville offers a variety of boat tours along the Guadalquivir River, providing a unique perspective of the city's landmarks and history from the water. Most popular are the sightseeing cruises, typically lasting about an hour, which offer panoramic views of iconic sites such as the Torre del Oro, the Triana district, Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring, and the bridges that connect the city. These tours often include audio guides in multiple languages, providing historical and cultural context as you cruise.
My tour was disappointing. Although getting on the water for a different perspective of the city is always nice, I did not learn or see anything new. Due to a large and loud school group that took the same boat, I was unable to hear any of the audio. I would give this a pass.
For a better experience, consider a boat tour with tapas or even a full lunch or dinner cruise. These cruises allow you to savour local cuisine while enjoying the riverside views. Some combination tours also include a flamenco show or a hop-on,, hop-off bus tour for a more comprehensive exploration of Seville.
Most boat tours depart from the area around the Torre del Oro, making it easily accessible. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Wandering Around Seville
Wandering without a specific destination in Old Seville unveils hidden charms that pre-planned itineraries often miss. As you meander through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Santa Cruz quarter, the former Jewish quarter, you stumble upon sun-drenched patios overflowing with vibrant bougainvillea and the soothing sounds of trickling fountains. The air is thick with the scent of jasmine and orange blossoms, leading you to discover tucked-away plazas where locals gather for tapas and conversation. Without the pressure of ticking off landmarks, you become more attuned to the subtle details: the intricate tilework adorning the facades, the wrought-iron balconies overflowing with geraniums, and the echoes of flamenco guitar drifting from open doorways.
Take time to wander through the public parks and gardens to appreciate the giant ficus trees and pretty flowers and to absorb the ever-present bird song. Sit on one of the many mosaic benches surrounding fountains to enjoy the cool freshness away from the bustling crowds surrounding the Cathedral and Alcazar.
How to Get Around Seville
Seville is a compact city that is easy to explore on foot. However, the city also has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trams. Visitors can purchase a rechargeable transport card, a "Tarjeta Multi," which can be used on all public transport.
Budget Accommodations in Seville
There is plenty of choice in accommodations in Seville, from luxurious hotels to humble hostels. My personal preference is to rent a flat with a kitchen. I like to have a bit more space beyond a bedroom and bathroom, and the ability to make coffee, snacks, and perhaps a light meal. I do spend most of my travel days wandering, so I don't feel I need luxury. I'm happy with a private, clean and comfortable place. I also have a budget that I would rather spend on activities, good meals, and the occasional splurge. I look for a place near enough to the major attractions that allows me to walk but slightly away from most tourist accommodations.
For budget travellers, Bed & Breakfast Naranjo is a great option. This bed and breakfast is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from major tourist sites. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The bed and breakfast also offers a traditional Spanish breakfast, featuring local specialties like churros and tortilla.
For travellers who prefer a flat with a kitchen, the Apartamento Orange Triana Centro is another comfortable choice. It is located in a residential area of Triana, within easy walking distance of the Old City. We had everything we needed and enjoyed our stay.
For true budget solo travellers who plan to spend most of their time exploring, another choice might be a small dorm-style room from GoToSeville in San Bernardo. It wasn't a good choice for me, but it was clean, close to the things I wanted to explore, and was in a quiet neighbourhood. However, it was too small, the bunk bed was uncomfortable, and it didn't have a kitchen. They offer larger rooms with kitchenettes, but I thought I would be okay since I only wanted it for my last two nights. I've learned my lesson.
Food and Drink Specialties
Seville is known for its delicious and varied cuisine, which features a blend of Spanish and Moorish influences. One of the must-try specialties is tapas, small plates of food that are perfect for sharing with friends. Some popular tapas dishes in Seville include jamón ibérico, grilled shrimp, and tortilla española, a kind of potato omelet. Small plates tend to be fried with few vegetarian/vegan offerings.
There is a large selection of wines and beers available to complement your food choices. If you prefer something a little more refreshing, order sangria—traditionally made with red wine and lots of fruit. Each bar and restaurant has its own recipe if you are interested in comparing different tastes.
For delicious orange juice, drop into one of the grocery stores and use their juice machine to get a bottle of the best-tasting, freshly-squeezed juice you've ever tasted.
Another specialty is the local wine, sherry. Visitors can tour one of the many sherry bodegas in the city, such as Bodegas Tradición or Bodegas Lustau, and sample some of the different varieties. We chose to visit a sherry winery in the nearby town of Jerez de la Frontera (that's a future post!).
Shopping
Seville is a fantastic city for shopping, with a wide range of boutiques, markets and shops to choose from. One of the best places to shop in Seville is the Triana neighbourhood, home to many small shops and boutiques selling locally made handicrafts, ceramics and traditional Spanish fashion. Another great shopping spot is the Plaza Nueva, located in the heart of Seville, home to many high-end fashion boutiques and designer stores.
A few local specialties in Seville should not be missed. One of the most famous is Seville's orange trees, found all over the city. These oranges are typically too bitter to eat, but they are used to make Seville's renowned orange marmalade.
For those looking to bring back a souvenir or two, Seville is famous for its traditional Spanish fans, which come in various styles and sizes. Other popular souvenirs include ceramic tiles, traditional Spanish shawls (mantones) and leather goods, including shoes and bags. The best place to find these souvenirs is in the many small shops and boutiques in the Triana neighbourhood, where visitors can browse at their leisure and find unique, handmade items to take home.
Budget Saving Tips
While visiting Seville, walk as much as possible and consider purchasing a Seville City Card. This card offers discounts on admission to many major tourist sites and unrestricted use of public transport.
Another tip is to visit the popular sites early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when crowds are smaller and admission fees may be lower. Try to book your entrance to the Real Alcazar in advance. Even in the shoulder season, these sell out quickly.
Finally, consider taking a free walking tour of the city. This is a great way to learn about Seville's history and culture while getting some exercise and fresh air.
Final Thoughts
Seville is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history, culture, and cuisine, making it the perfect destination for budget travellers. ts unique events, stunning tourist sites, and delicious food and drink will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
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Reading this article about Seville confirms what I thought. It looks like a perfect place to explore history, admire architecture and have a chance to see bull-fighting or flamenco dancing. Great tips on time or year and crowds.
This is a terrific and detailed guide for what looks to be a very lovely city. I appreciated the honesty pertaining to the boat tour. As a solo traveler, I know I would feel a little awkward with school tour groups around, and it's especially distracting when the kids are acting up. Nonetheless, it's an unfortunate learning experience and you're often rolling the dice with some of these tours. I would agree with a boat tour that is part of a dinner cruise as the clientele will likely be a little more relaxed 😀. The food looks amazing as well, and I know I would really enjoy walking and wandering through a city like this that is likely small but…
Seville is very high on my list, ideally in the shoulder season as it can get pretty hot in Andalusia during the summer. The architecture is exquisite, not just from the ancient Morish influence, but also the tile work and the modern structure of the mushrooms. I can see and feel through your pictures that Seville is a perfect destination for solo travellers who seek out individuality, character and of course some modern and international vibes.
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
Sevilla - the Spanish city that bears my last name and who doesn't love it? :-) This is Spain's ultimate showstopper and it's the very city I would recommend traveling to for first time visitors. Steep in intrigue, history, culture and old money. So happy to know that you enjoyed your recent trip there as it is one of my favorite cities to visit time and again ;-) #flyingbaguette
Well this post came at the ideal time, I'm off to Seville next week. Between the Plazas and the towers I'm going to be spoiled for choice. But I will definitely just be walking around, finding hidden gems amongst quiet side streets as well as checking out a couple of the big tickets too. Although no bullfighting for me, and sounds like as a vegetarian I might have to look extra hard for a bite