Things To Do
in Sevilla

Sevilla is the radiant capital of Andalusia, famed for its Moorish-influenced architecture and sunlit plazas. The Alcázar and the Giralda anchor a city where centuries of history flow through its narrow streets and riverside promenades. Flamenco, tapas, and orange blossoms define the tempo of daily life, especially in spring when the air is perfumed with blossom.

The climate blends scorching summers with mild winters, making the city exceptionally walkable and endlessly photogenic.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Seville Cathedral, home to the impressive La Giralda bell tower, offering breathtaking views of the city. After exploring the cathedral, wander through the nearby narrow streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, where whitewashed buildings and vibrant flower pots create a picturesque atmosphere. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast of tostada with tomato and olive oil, paired with a strong café con leche.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of the Alcázar of Seville, a magnificent palace that showcases intricate Mudejar architecture and beautiful gardens. Spend time wandering through the lush courtyards and soaking in the serene ambiance, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby tapas bar, sampling local specialties like jamón ibérico and salmorejo. As you conclude your time in this area, take a stroll through the adjacent Maria Luisa Park, where you can relax by the fountains and admire the stunning Plaza de España.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Metropol Parasol, a modern architectural marvel, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace. For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a traditional flamenco restaurant, where you can savor delicious Andalusian cuisine while watching an authentic flamenco performance. The evening concludes with a leisurely walk along the Guadalquivir River, taking in the illuminated sights of the city.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day at the Mercado de Triana, a bustling market where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and seafood. Sample some local cheeses and olives while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and chatting with friendly vendors. After exploring the market, take a moment to stroll along the picturesque riverfront, admiring the views of the iconic Triana Bridge.

afternoon
:

After lunch at one of the market's tapas bars, head to the nearby Castillo de San Jorge, an ancient fortress that now houses a ceramics museum showcasing the rich history of Triana's pottery. Spend your afternoon exploring the exhibits and learning about this traditional craft that has been passed down through generations. Don’t forget to visit some of the local ceramic shops to find unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As evening approaches, make your way back to the city center for a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Andalusian dishes. After dinner, stroll through the lively streets of Triana, where you can find live music and street performers adding to the vibrant atmosphere. End your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying the stunning views of the illuminated city skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-70
Coffee at a café$2-4
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom city center$1,200-1,800/mo
🎬Cinema ticket$10-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich Moorish and Gothic architecture
  • Excellent tapas and flamenco culture
  • Walkable historic center and riverfront
  • Very hot summers
  • Tourist crowds in peak season
  • Limited beaches nearby
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está la estación de tren?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Hablo inglés" - I speak English

Places to Visit in Sevilla

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de España

Iconic semicircular plaza with vibrant ceramic tilework and decorative bridges along the canal.

Alcázar of Seville Gardens

Ornate Moorish gardens, reflecting pools, and intricate tilework ideal for atmospheric shots.

Seville Cathedral and Giralda

Gothic grandeur with the soaring Giralda tower; dramatic facades and grand interiors.

Metropol Parasol (Las Setas)

A striking wooden structure offering panoramic city views from the top ramp.

Barrio Santa Cruz

Winding lanes, whitewashed houses, flowering balconies, and twilight alleyways perfect for candid photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sevilla

Seville’s cuisine is bold, sun-kissed, and social, rooted in Moorish and Atlantic influences. Tapas culture is central here, with generous shared plates and seasonal ingredients leading the way in many taverns and bars.

Sevilla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gazpacho Andaluz

Chilled tomato soup with cucumber, pepper, garlic, and olive oil, served in small bowls at tapas bars.

Must-Try!

Salmorejo

Thick, silky tomato and bread soup garnished with hard-boiled egg and jamón; a staple cooler in hot months.

Espinacas con Garbanzos

A hearty spinach and chickpea dish with onions and spices, often found as a vegetarian option in taverns.

Pescaito Frito

A platter of light, crispy fried fish (often small whitefish) served with lemon wedges and salt.

Rabo de Toro

Slow-braised oxtail stew in a rich tomato and wine sauce, typically served with potatoes or bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Triana

A traditional market across the river where you can sample fresh seafood, cured ham, and regional cheeses, plus ready-to-eat bites from tapas stalls.

Mercado de la Encarnación (La Setas Market)

Modern market near the Metropol Parasol offering fresh produce, baked goods, and small prepared dishes from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Seville has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with scorching summers (June–August) and mild, wet winters (December–February). Spring and autumn are exceptionally pleasant for outdoor sightseeing, with long sunny days and cooler evenings. Rain is most common in autumn and winter, while summers are typically dry. Overall, plan for long, sunny days for most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Greet with a polite hola or buenos días; expect warm, cordial interactions and close greetings with friends and family.

Siesta and mealtimes

Many shops close for a midday break; dinners typically start after 9 pm, so plan visits accordingly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Seville is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Keep valuables secure in tourist hotspots like the cathedral and plaza. Use licensed taxis or rideshares at night and stay in well-lit areas after dark.

Tipping in Sevilla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some smaller bars may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Very hot, with temperatures often above 35°C; plan indoor visits during peak heat and save outdoor activity for late afternoon or evening.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for walking tours and terrace dining.

Winter

Mild to cool days with occasional rain; layer up for evening strolls and indoor flamenco venues.

Spring

Peak festival season (Semana Santa and Feria) with vibrant processions and lively street life; book in advance.

Nightlife Guide

Sevilla at Night

Seville’s nightlife thrives in Alameda de Hércules, Triana, and the historic center, featuring tapas bars, flamenco tablaos, and riverfront lounges. Expect lively, late-night dining and music, with many venues staying open until 2–3 am. Pick from traditional taverns for a classic experience or modern rooftops for sweeping city views.

Hiking in Sevilla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra de Aracena

Forest-covered hills with marked trails, wildlife, and viewpoints, located about 1.5-2 hours from Seville.

Cerro del Hierro

Former iron mine area offering dramatic cliffs and scenic paths, a popular day hike near Seville.

Airports

How to reach Sevilla by plane.

Seville Airport (SVQ)

Located about 10-15 minutes from the city center by car; serves domestic and international flights.

Jerez de la Frontera Airport (XRY)

Nearby Cádiz region airport; about 1.5-2 hours by road; some international connections seasonally.

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)

Major international hub roughly 2 hours away by car or rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Seville’s historic center is compact and highly walkable, with dense pedestrian streets and landmarks within easy reach. Bicycle and scooter rentals are common, and the riverfront promenade offers wide, scenic paths. Some cobbled lanes can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes and plan routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A mix of families, retirees, and professionals with a strong regional identity and cultural pride.

Students and international expats

Universities attract students and global residents, adding a cosmopolitan but distinctly Andalusian flavor.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Sevilla FC and Real Betis have passionate local followings and modern facilities.

Padel

A popular indoor/outdoor racket sport widely played in clubs around the city.

Basketball

Local leagues and community centers host games for all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Seville emphasizes walking, cycling, buses, and a riverfront tram network in parts of the city. The historic center is mostly pedestrianized and car access is limited, making it easy to explore on foot. Taxis and rideshares are plentiful, but plan extra time during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sevilla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many tapas bars offer vegetable-focused plates, gazpacho, and grilled vegetables; ask for sin carne and look for veg-friendly menus at higher-end restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Spain provides high-quality healthcare. Visitors can access public or private facilities; EU residents can use their EHIC. For non-EU visitors, private travel insurance is recommended. Emergency services are reachable by dialing 112; notable facilities include hospitals with multilingual staff.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide