Seville
The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Seville
Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, is a treasure trove of rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll discover a city that’s full of life, color, and passion. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and more.
Places to Visit
1. Cathedral of Seville (La Catedral de Sevilla)
- Address: Plaza del Triunfo, s/n, 41004 Sevilla
- Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11am - 5pm, Sunday: 2:30pm - 6pm
- Ticket price: €9
This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in the world and a must-visit attraction in Seville. Be amazed by its stunning architecture, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking views from the top.
2. Royal Alcázar of Seville (Reales Alcázares de Sevilla)
- Address: Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla
- Hours: Monday - Sunday: 9:30am - 5pm
- Ticket price: €9.50
This enchanting palace and gardens complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.
3. Archivo de Indias (General Archive of the Indies)
- Address: Avenida de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla
- Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:30am - 5pm, Sunday: 10am - 2pm
- Ticket price: Free
Discover the rich history of Spanish colonization in this impressive archive, which houses valuable documents and artifacts from the Age of Exploration.
4. Barrio de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Neighborhood)
- Address: Calle de la Luna, s/n, 41004 Sevilla
Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of this charming neighborhood, filled with picturesque plazas, flower-filled patios, and historic buildings.
5. Parque de María Luisa (María Luisa Park)
- Address: Plaza de España, s/n, 41013 Sevilla
- Hours: Daily: 8am - midnight
Escape the city’s bustle in this beautiful park, featuring walking trails, lakes, and stunning architecture.
Activities
1. Take a Flamenco Show
Experience the passion and energy of traditional Andalusian flamenco music and dance at one of Seville’s many tablaos (flamenco bars) or theaters.
2. Go on a Tapas Tour
Sample the city’s delicious cuisine by hopping from bar to bar, trying various tapas (small plates) and local wines.
3. Explore the Guadalquivir River
Take a romantic boat tour or stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the city’s scenic views and picturesque bridges.
4. Visit a Local Market
Immerse yourself in Seville’s vibrant market culture at the Mercado de Triana or Mercado de Feria, where you can find fresh produce, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.
5. Take a Day Trip to Córdoba or Granada
Visit these nearby cities, rich in history and architecture, and explore their famous landmarks like the Mezquita (Córdoba) or Alhambra Palace (Granada).
Where to Eat
1. El Pinton (Calle de San Luis, 54)
Savor traditional Andalusian cuisine at this cozy restaurant, serving dishes like gazpacho and pescaíto frito.
2. La Azotea (Calle de la Alfalfa, 12)
Enjoy modern Spanish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and creative presentation at this trendy rooftop restaurant.
3. Bar El Quilin (Calle de San Luis, 15)
Indulge in delicious tapas and refreshing beers at this lively bar, popular among locals and visitors alike.
4. Café Central (Plaza del Duque, 1)
Relax with a coffee or snack at this elegant café, located in the heart of Seville’s historic center.
5. Mercado de Triana (Calle de San Jorge, s/n)
Sample local specialties like jamón ibérico and fresh seafood at this bustling market, offering a variety of food stalls and restaurants.
Where to Stay
1. Hotel Alfonso XIII (San Fernando, 41)
Luxuriate in this stunning hotel, featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and prime location near the Cathedral.
2. Hostal Lis II (Calle de San Luis, 33)
Discover this charming hostel, offering cozy rooms, a communal kitchen, and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Apartamentos Puerta del Sol (Calle de la Alfalfa, 12)
Enjoy modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens, located in the heart of Seville’s historic center.
4. Casa 1800 Sevilla (Rodríguez Marín, 18)
Experience luxury and comfort at this beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, featuring elegant rooms and a relaxing courtyard.
Things to Know
1. Siesta Time
Respect the local tradition of taking a mid-day break (siesta) from 2 pm to 5 pm, when many businesses close.
2. Tap Water
Tap water is safe to drink in Seville, but you may prefer bottled water due to its distinct taste.
3. Language
While many Sevillanos speak some English, it’s always helpful to learn basic Spanish phrases and appreciate the local culture.
4. Weather
Seville can be very hot during summer months (June - August), so be prepared with sun protection, light clothing, and hydration.
5. Festivals and Events
Seville hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Feria de Abril (April Fair) and Bienal de Flamenco (Flamenco Biennial). Plan your trip accordingly to experience these vibrant events.
Transportation
1. Sevilla Airport (SVQ)
Located about 10 km from the city center, the airport offers bus and taxi connections to Seville.
2. Train Station (Santa Justa)
Reach Seville by high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid or other Spanish cities.
3. Bus Station (Plaza de Armas)
Connect to nearby cities like Córdoba and Granada, as well as international destinations.
4. Bike Rentals
Explore Seville on two wheels with bike rental services like Sevici or Bybike.
5. Walking Tours
Discover the city’s hidden gems on a guided walking tour, offered by companies like Sevilla Walking Tours or Discover Seville.
Tips and Tricks
1. Be Prepared for Crowds
Seville is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds at popular attractions and plan your itinerary accordingly.
2. Learn Some Spanish Phrases
Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you), “por favor” (please), and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
3. Bring Comfortable Shoes
Seville’s historic center is best explored on foot, so pack comfortable shoes to handle the city’s cobblestone streets.
4. Take Advantage of Free Entry Days
Some attractions offer free entry on certain days or at specific times. Plan your itinerary accordingly to save money.
5. Be Open-Minded and Flexible
Seville is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Be open-minded, flexible, and prepared for unexpected experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
Insider’s Secrets
1. Visit the Cathedral at Sunset
Witness the breathtaking views of Seville from the cathedral’s rooftop during sunset, when the light is soft and golden.
2. Explore the Santa Cruz Neighborhood at Night
Discover this charming neighborhood’s romantic atmosphere, with its narrow streets illuminated by twinkling lights.
3. Attend a Local Festival or Event
Immerse yourself in Seville’s vibrant cultural scene by attending a local festival or event, like the Feria de Abril or Bienal de Flamenco.
4. Take a Day Trip to the Sierra Norte Mountains
Escape the city’s heat and explore the picturesque Sierra Norte mountains, offering hiking trails, scenic views, and traditional villages.
5. Visit the Mercado de Triana at Night
Experience the market’s lively atmosphere in the evening, when locals gather to socialize and enjoy street food and drinks.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Seville. ¡Disfruta tu viaje! (Enjoy your trip!)