Seville is a city for walking, eating late and slowing down. It is compact, flat and sunny, but its heat and its rhythm can surprise first-time visitors. These are the tips we give our friends.
Arriving
- By air: San Pablo airport is about 10 km from the centre. The airport bus (EA) takes about 35 minutes to Plaza de Armas, with stops near Santa Justa station and the Prado de San Sebastián. There is no train to the airport.
- By train: high-speed trains from Madrid take about 2.5 hours to Santa Justa station, a short taxi or bus ride from the old town.
Getting around
- Walk. The old town, Santa Cruz, the Arenal and Triana are all close together, and the streets are flat.
- A short tram line runs along the Avenida de la Constitución, past the Cathedral.
- Seville has one metro line, useful mainly for outer districts.
- The city has many cycle lanes, and the riverbank is lovely by bike.
Tours and activities in Seville
The heat
- In July and August the afternoon temperature often passes 40 °C. Visit the Real Alcázar and the Cathedral at opening time.
- Rest after lunch, like the Sevillanos, and go out again after 8 pm.
- Carry water and a hat; many streets are shaded with awnings in summer.
- Read when to visit Seville if you can choose your dates.
Tickets and opening times
- Book the Real Alcázar online: timed tickets often sell out in spring.
- The Cathedral ticket includes the Giralda; cover your shoulders inside.
- Some museums, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes, close on Mondays.
- The Plaza de España is an open square you can visit at any time.
Eating and going out
Lunch from 2 pm, dinner from 9 pm, later in summer. Tapas are the local way to eat; see what to eat in Seville. For flamenco, look for small venues in Santa Cruz and Triana.
Safety and small things
- Seville is a safe city. Watch for pickpockets in crowds, especially at Easter and during the Feria.
- Near the Cathedral, people may offer you a sprig of rosemary and then ask for money: just say no and walk on.
- Tap water is safe to drink.
Ready to plan? Start with Seville in 3 days, choose your area in where to stay in Seville, and add Córdoba or Cádiz from our day trips from Seville.
