Seville, the radiant heart of Andalusia, is a city where tradition meets modernity, creating an irresistible allure for travelers. With its grand palaces, vibrant flamenco culture, and sun-soaked streets, Seville is a place that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Spain’s rich history and warm culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a lover of the arts, this captivating city has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top 10 things to do in Seville, each guaranteed to make your visit unforgettable.
- Experience Flamenco at La Carbonería – My Favorite Activity
- Marvel at the Royal Alcázar of Seville
- Visit Seville Cathedral – The Largest Gothic Cathedral in the World
- Climb the Giralda Tower
- Stroll Through Plaza de España
- Explore the Gardens of María Luisa Park
- Wander the Barrio Santa Cruz
- Discover the Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol)
- Taste Traditional Tapas at Mercado de Triana
- My Extra Recommendation: Tapas at Casa Morales
1
Experience Flamenco at La Carbonería
This was definitely the highlight of my time in Seville. For an unforgettable night of flamenco, head to La Carbonería, one of the city’s most beloved hidden gems. Tucked away in the heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, La Carbonería may be hard to spot—its lack of exterior signage adds to its charm and allure. This rustic bar and performance space offer a uniquely local experience, perfect for immersing yourself in the passionate rhythms of Andalusian flamenco.
A Unique Atmosphere
The venue’s ambiance is as authentic as the performances themselves. With a large, open space filled with wooden benches and tables, and a spacious outdoor patio for mingling, La Carbonería exudes a casual and intimate vibe that makes it easy to lose track of time. Grab a drink, settle into the lively crowd, and prepare for an evening where the soul of Seville truly comes alive.
Free Flamenco Shows
One of the best parts of La Carbonería is its commitment to free flamenco performances, allowing anyone to experience this iconic Spanish art form. Shows typically begin around 8:30 PM and are filled with raw emotion as dancers, singers, and musicians pour their hearts into each performance. To snag a good spot, it’s wise to arrive early, as the place fills up quickly with locals and tourists alike.
Drinks and Tapas
While the focus is on flamenco, La Carbonería also offers a selection of drinks, including local wines and the refreshing “Agua de Sevilla.” Tapas are available, though the food has mixed reviews; consider coming for the drinks and flamenco, and save your appetite for other local spots. The bar’s relaxed vibe and affordable prices make it an easy-going spot to enjoy a drink while watching the show.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early to secure a seat close to the stage for the best view of the flamenco performance.
- Plan to stay for the evening to fully absorb the unique atmosphere and appreciate multiple sets of music and dance.
- Bring cash, as the bar operates on a cash-only basis.
La Carbonería is more than just a bar; it’s a cultural experience, a place where Seville’s heart beats to the rhythms of flamenco. For anyone visiting Seville, this venue is a must for a memorable night of music, dance, and authentic Andalusian spirit.
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2
Marvel at the Royal Alcázar of Seville
Stepping into the UNESCO-listed Royal Alcázar is like entering a world of magic and history. Originally built by the Moors and later expanded by Spanish royalty, this palace is a stunning blend of Islamic and Christian architecture, with intricate tilework, grand arches, and mosaics around every corner.
Be sure to visit the Hall of Ambassadors, where golden details glimmer in the sunlight, and wander the lush gardens filled with orange trees, fountains, and hidden pathways. The Garden of Mercury, with its tranquil fountain, is especially enchanting.
Entrance Fee: €13.50 per person for the general admission to the ground floor
Tips: Try to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues, and visit early in the morning for a more serene experience.
3
Visit Seville Cathedral – The Largest Gothic Cathedral in the World
Seville Cathedral is not only one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world but also one of the most breathtaking. Built over a former mosque, the cathedral is an architectural masterpiece filled with intricate details, beautiful stained glass windows, and the grand tomb of Christopher Columbus. Take your time exploring the naves, chapels, and the massive altarpiece.
Entrance Fees: Click here for the different options.
Tips: Combine your visit with the Giralda Tower for a comprehensive experience.
4
Climb the Giralda Tower
For a spectacular panoramic view of Seville, head to the Giralda Tower, the bell tower of Seville Cathedral. Once the minaret of a mosque, it was later converted to a bell tower after the Christian conquest. The climb to the top is a gentle slope rather than stairs, making it easier to reach, and the view over the city’s rooftops is well worth the effort.
Entrance Fees: Click here for the different options.
Tips: Visit close to sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Take a Guided Tour to the Seville Cathedral, the Royal Alcazar and the Giralda Tower
Booking a guided tour can often be the best choice for various reasons. Sometimes it helps simplify the organization of a trip, while for others, it removes the stress of planning. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had a positive experience. For these activities, I chose a guided tour that included all 3 and made the most out of my day. There are different great options on the GetYourGuide website but here is the one I experienced and really appreciated:
Seville: Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar Entry With Guided Tour – Click Here
5
Stroll Through Plaza de España
As a traveler, one of the absolute highlights of visiting Seville is stepping into the breathtaking Plaza de España. Imagine a grand, half-moon-shaped plaza that seems to glow under the Andalusian sun, with its red-brick architecture and vibrant ceramic tiles that showcase scenes from every province in Spain. The plaza is surrounded by a moat-like canal crossed by picturesque bridges, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride if you’re in the mood for a bit of fun.
Strolling along the plaza, you’ll find yourself admiring every intricate detail—the tiles, the arches, the fountains, and even the soft hum of Spanish guitar from nearby buskers. It’s like walking through a scene straight out of a classic Spanish story. And the beauty doesn’t stop there! Right beside the Plaza de España is the lush María Luisa Park, a tranquil green space with winding paths, shaded benches, and hidden fountains that invite you to pause and soak it all in.
Rowboat Ride: The standard rate is €6 for a 35-minute ride, with an additional €4 safety deposit.
Tips: Go early or at sunset for stunning photos and fewer tourists.
6
Explore the Gardens of María Luisa Park
The park feels like an extension of the plaza, with its own secret charms and peaceful spots to escape the city’s bustle. There’s something magical about exploring these two connected spaces, where you can take your time, snap endless photos, or simply sit back and absorb the energy of Seville.
María Luisa Park is an expansive green space perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The park is dotted with fountains, ponds, and lush foliage, and it’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle. You can explore by foot, rent a bike, or even take a horse-drawn carriage through the park. Be sure to check out the nearby Plaza de América and its museums.
Tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon under the shade of the trees.
7
Wander the Barrio Santa Cruz
The Barrio Santa Cruz is Seville’s charming old Jewish quarter, known for its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and hidden plazas. This area is ideal for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of boutiques, tapas bars, and picturesque spots along the way. Make sure to visit the serene Plaza de Doña Elvira and stop by the Hospital de los Venerables, an 18th-century baroque building.
Tips: Spend an evening here to enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample local tapas.
8
Discover the Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol)
The Metropol Parasol, locally known as Las Setas (The Mushrooms), is a modern architectural marvel in Seville. This wooden structure offers a unique contrast to the city’s historic buildings and provides a 360-degree view from the top. Climb up for a view of the city and enjoy the on-site museum showcasing Roman and Moorish ruins found during construction.
Entrance Fee: €15 for general admission
Tips: The best time to visit is at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the cityscape.
9
Taste Traditional Tapas at Mercado de Triana
For an authentic taste of Seville, head to Mercado de Triana, a bustling market offering local products, fresh produce, and traditional dishes. This is the perfect place to sample local tapas, like jamón ibérico, salmorejo, and fried fish. Stroll around, taste the local flavors, and soak up the vibrant market atmosphere.
Tips: Go on an empty stomach!
10
My Extra Recommendation: Tapas at Casa Morales
For a true taste of Seville, head to Casa Morales, a historic tapas bar that’s been serving locals and travelers since 1850. Located just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, this charming spot is filled with old-world character, complete with massive wine barrels lining the walls and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The tapas here are as authentic as it gets—think jamón ibérico, local cheeses, and delicious montaditos (small sandwiches) bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect place to savor traditional Sevillian bites, enjoy a glass of local wine, and soak up the bustling energy of a true Spanish tapas bar.
Final Thoughts
Seville is a city that captures the essence of Spanish culture and history, offering visitors a range of experiences from architectural marvels to traditional art forms. With each corner you turn, Seville unveils another story, another view, or another taste of Andalusian charm. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the vibrant culture and warm atmosphere of Seville will always leave you wanting more. So pack your bags, embrace the Andalusian spirit, and discover the magic of Seville!
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