In this blog post, we are visiting Seville, a vibrant city in Spain. Located in the Andalusia region in the south of the country, Seville offers a wealth of experiences. Here, I will show you the top six things to do in this beautiful city—some even consider it the world’s most beautiful city!
Seville is a city steeped in history, culture, and passion. From the moment you arrive, its charm becomes undeniable. Notably, it is famed for stunning architecture, including the majestic Seville Cathedral and the Giralda tower, where Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance styles blend masterfully. In addition, the Alcázar palace complex showcases exquisite Islamic art and lush gardens, offering a glimpse into the city’s royal past. Moreover, Seville is the birthplace of flamenco, with passionate performances echoing through its historic neighborhoods. Combined with a lively tapas scene and a warm Mediterranean climate, these features further enhance its appeal. Ultimately, Seville captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and rich traditions.
how to get to Seville
Getting to Seville is straightforward, with several options depending on your starting point:
By Air:
- Seville Airport (SVQ) is the main international airport.
- Direct flights are available from major European cities.
- From the airport, the EA (Especial Aeropuerto) bus or taxi gets you to the city center in 15–30 minutes.
By Train:
- High-speed AVE trains connect Seville with Madrid (about 2.5 hours), Córdoba, and Barcelona.
- Seville’s main station is Santa Justa.
By Bus:
- Long-distance buses connect Seville with other Spanish and Portuguese cities.
- Main bus terminals: Plaza de Armas and Prado de San Sebastián.
1. Alcázar of Seville
The Alcázar of Seville stands as the oldest royal palace in Europe still in use today. Notably, the Spanish royal family continues to use it, and since 1987, UNESCO has recognized it as a World Heritage site.
Originally developed by Moorish kings in the 10th century, the palace now consists of several interconnected palaces, halls, and structures. Furthermore, it showcases a fascinating blend of architectural styles, including Islamic, Mudejar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Together, these elements highlight the palace’s rich history and cultural significance.
The gardens of the Alcázar of Seville cover approximately 15 acres and stand out as a major highlight of the palace complex. Featuring a mix of Moorish, Renaissance, and modern landscaping styles, they showcase a rich blend of influences. Within the gardens, visitors can explore exotic plants, fountains, pavilions, and labyrinths, all of which create a peaceful and scenic retreat. Furthermore, many elements—such as the Mercury Pond and the Gallery of the Grotesque—reflect centuries of artistic and cultural heritage. Together, these features make the gardens an essential part of the Alcázar experience.
2. Food in Seville
Seville’s cuisine is a flavorful reflection of its Andalusian roots, offering a rich mix of tradition and creativity. Tapas are central to the dining experience—small, shareable dishes like salmorejo (a thick tomato and bread soup), jamón ibérico, and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas) are local favorites.
Fresh seafood, such as grilled cuttlefish and fried anchovies, features prominently in Seville’s cuisine and draws widespread appreciation. In addition, locals often cook with olive oil, garlic, and sherry vinegar, which add depth and richness to many traditional dishes. Beyond seafood, Seville offers excellent cheeses and wines sourced from nearby regions, further enhancing the culinary experience. Moreover, dining in Seville is a social and unhurried affair. People often gather in bustling plazas or atmospheric taverns, where they savor each bite and conversation. Altogether, the food scene reflects the city’s warm, convivial spirit and deep-rooted appreciation for shared meals.
3. Seville Cathedral
The Cathedral of Seville, officially called the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, stands as the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Built on the site of a former mosque, it blends Islamic and Christian architectural styles. Construction began in the 15th century and finished in the early 16th century. Inside, visitors can find the tomb of Christopher Columbus, one of the cathedral’s most notable features. Its iconic bell tower, La Giralda, once served as a minaret. With its vast interior, intricate altarpiece, and deep historical roots, the cathedral earns its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are some fun facts about Seville Cathedral:
- World’s Largest Gothic Cathedral – It’s the largest Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church in the world.
- Tomb of Columbus – Christopher Columbus is buried here, though parts of his remains may also be in the Dominican Republic.
- La Giralda Tower – Originally a minaret from the mosque that stood before, La Giralda was transformed into the cathedral’s bell tower.
- Massive Altarpiece – It holds one of the world’s largest and most intricate wooden altarpieces, gilded in gold.
- UNESCO Site – Along with the Alcázar and the Archivo de Indias, it forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Plaza de Espana
Plaza de España in Seville is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Designed by Aníbal González, it showcases a unique blend of Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival styles. At the heart of the plaza, visitors will find a large fountain, a canal crossed by charming bridges, and beautifully tiled alcoves representing each Spanish province. Moreover, its grand scale and intricate details make it both a popular tourist attraction and a favored filming location. Surrounded by the lush Maria Luisa Park, the plaza offers a perfect mix of culture and beauty, and is undoubtedly a must-see in Seville.
Fun facts about Plaza de España in Seville:
- Built for a World’s Fair – It was constructed for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 to showcase Spain’s industry and technology.
- Provincial Alcoves – The plaza has 48 tiled alcoves, each representing a province of Spain with maps, crests, and historical scenes.
- Film Star – It has appeared in movies like Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Lawrence of Arabia.
- Canal and Bridges – The plaza features a 500-meter canal with four ornate bridges symbolizing Spain’s ancient kingdoms.
- Architectural Fusion – It uniquely blends Renaissance Revival, Moorish Revival (Neo-Mudéjar), and Art Deco styles.
5. Setas de Seville
The Setas de Sevilla, also known as Metropol Parasol, is a striking modern structure located in Seville’s historic old quarter. Completed in 2011, it was designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer and has since become an iconic landmark. Notably, its form resembles giant mushrooms—hence the nickname “Setas” (Spanish for mushrooms). Constructed primarily from wood, it stands 26 meters tall and is considered one of the largest timber structures in the world. Furthermore, the Setas houses a market, an archaeological museum, and a rooftop walkway. As a result, it seamlessly blends contemporary design with the rich historical surroundings of the city.
6. Flamenco
Flamenco in Seville is a vibrant expression of Andalusian culture, deeply rooted in the city’s history. Originating from the gypsy, Moorish, and Andalusian traditions, it blends passionate singing (cante), expressive dance (baile), and soulful guitar (toque). Seville is a hub for flamenco, home to famous tablaos, festivals like the Bienal de Flamenco, and dedicated schools. In neighborhoods like Triana, flamenco lives on in intimate performances and family gatherings, offering visitors an authentic and emotional cultural experience unique to the city.
That’s all from Seville, I hope you got some inspiration and enjoyed this blogpost!
See our YouTube video from Seville here:
