Seville is Andalusia at its most passionate. The region’s capital, home to around 690,000 people on the banks of the Guadalquivir, has a vast old town of whitewashed lanes, tiled patios and orange trees, crowned by monuments that tell the story of Moors, Christians and the riches of the Americas.
Why visit Seville
Its cathedral, Real Alcázar and Archivo de Indias form a UNESCO World Heritage site, and few cities feel as alive: tapas bars spill onto the street, flamenco fills the evenings and the spring festivals are among the most famous in Spain.
Top things to do in Seville
The Real Alcázar
A royal palace still in use, with Mudéjar halls, intricate stucco and wonderful gardens. Book a timed ticket in advance.
The cathedral and the Giralda
The largest Gothic cathedral in the world holds the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Climb the Giralda, a former minaret, by its ramps for views over the rooftops.
Plaza de España and María Luisa Park
A grand semicircular square built for the 1929 exhibition, with tiled alcoves for each Spanish province, next to a shady park.
The Santa Cruz quarter
The old Jewish quarter is a maze of narrow lanes, flower-filled squares and hidden patios.
Triana
Across the river, the neighbourhood of potters and flamenco, with its market, ceramic workshops and lively bars.
The Setas and the Torre del Oro
The Metropol Parasol (“las Setas”) is a huge wooden structure with a rooftop walkway; the Torre del Oro is a 13th-century watchtower by the river.
Festivals in Seville
Holy Week (Semana Santa) fills the streets with processions, and two weeks later the Feria de Abril brings casetas, horses and flamenco dresses. Both are spectacular and very busy.
Best time to visit Seville
Spring, when the orange blossom scents the city, and autumn are ideal. July and August are extremely hot, often above 40 °C. Winter is mild and sunny.
Getting to and around Seville
Seville airport is about 10 km from the centre, with an airport bus. High-speed trains from Santa Justa reach Madrid in about two and a half hours. The old town is best explored on foot, with a tram and a metro line for longer trips.
What to eat in Seville
Salmorejo and gazpacho, espinacas con garbanzos, fried fish (pescaíto frito), montaditos, Iberian ham and a glass of chilled fino or manzanilla.
Seville FAQ
How many days do you need in Seville?
Two or three days are enough for the main monuments, Triana and a flamenco show.
Is Seville too hot in summer?
In July and August temperatures often exceed 40 °C. If you go then, sightsee early in the morning and in the evening.
