Top Things To Do In Seville, Spain – Fun Things To Do There

Nestled in the southern Andalusia region is one of the most famous Spanish destinations, Seville. This sun-kissed city boasts the local Andalusian flair with Muslim influences, creating an astonishing mix of architecture and culture you do not want to miss.

Awe-inspiring architectural sights, fantastic Spanish food, and impromptu flamenco dancing in cozy squares around the city, Seville should be your next trip. This guide will show you all the fun things to do in Seville for an unforgettable experience. 

This article is your go-to guide for your upcoming trip to Seville. Keep reading to discover twelve must-see activities and attractions at your own pace to explore the “Pearl of Andalusia”. From stunning plazas to impossibly ornate palaces to charming and vibrant neighborhoods, here is all you need to see to maximize your time in Seville.

Things To Do In Seville

The Andalusian capital is served by Sevilla Airport (SVQ), also known as San Pablo Airport. Located 7.9 kilometers from the city center, Seville Airport is the main international hub of the area. Once arriving in Seville you can check out what you need to add to your itinerary for things to do in Seville, Spain.

#1 Admire Plaza de España

If there is one must-do Seville thing, it is stopping by the stunning Plaza De España. The most recognizable architectural feature of the Andalusian capital, this square was built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exhibition.

Located inside the María Luisa Park, Plaza De España is impressive with its 50,000 square meters and half-moon shape. In front of the square runs the Guadalquivir River and various canals, making it an excellent boat ride spot.

In addition to charming canals, Plaza De España features gorgeous fountains, pavilions, and Venetian-style bridges representing the four ancient kingdoms of Spain. Around the square, you can also admire colorful azulejos benches, which symbolize the 48 different regions of Spain.

This unmissable UNESCO World Heritage site houses today many government offices, cafès and restaurants perfect for a break. Due to its opulence, Plaza De España has been used countless times as a location for popular movies and TV shows, like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Game of Thrones scenes”. 

Explore every inch of Plaza De España and of other beautiful spots in Seville center by joining this guided small-group walking tour of the city’s architecture and history. 

#2 Uncover the secrets of Real Alcazar de Sevilla

Visiting Seville means you need to make some precise stops, one of which is seeing the Real Alcazar de Seville. This remarkable palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Europe’s oldest palaces still in use by a royal family. 

The Real Alcazar de Seville has a long and rich history. It was built in the 11th century for King Peter of Castille on the site of a Muslim fortress, and it boasts many different architectural elements that make it astonishing. In fact, after centuries worth of building and retouching, the castle features a melting pot of styles, from Gothic to Baroque to Romantic. 

However, in its structure and majority of decors, the Real Alcazar de Seville is through and through a magnificent example of Moorish royal palace and Mudéjar art. 

Step inside the palace to marvel at rooms and gardens decorated with geometric patterns, local azulejos, fountains, and lush vegetation. One of the best ways to discover the Real Alcazar de Seville is by getting lost in the maze of its gardens and being transported back in time. 

During your visit, don’t miss the Princess Bath, built for King Peter the Cruel’s mistress to escape the hot Spanish summers, and the Ambassador’s Reception Room, one of the most ornately designed rooms in the palace.

The Real Alcazar de Seville is among the most fun Seville things to do also because it was used as the location to shoot the Water Gardens of Dorne in the Game of Thrones blockbuster. See some of the filming locations and discover the palace’s stunning architecture with this guided tour with priority access.

#3 Tour Seville Cathedral

Another of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city is the Seville Cathedral. It is the third-largest church in the world and the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, so it’s an absolute must-see! 

Its construction began in 1401, and it was over 500 years in the making due to the many reconstruction works that it went through. Besides its rich history, Seville Cathedral is a true architectonic wonder. Soaring over 100 meters above the city streets, the church features countless spires, arches, and stained glass windows. 

The spectacle continues inside, with an impressive 42-meter high central nave and 80 side chapels. Particularly interesting is the Great Chapel, where visitors can see the Retablo Mayor, an impressive hand-carved altarpiece. While touring the cathedral, make sure not to miss the tomb of Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand III.

The Giralda Tower is an additional gem of Seville Cathedral. This Moorish-style bell tower was originally the minaret of an adjacent mosque. Climb to the top of the Giralda Tower to admire magnificent panoramic views over the whole city.

For an enriching learning experience of the Seville Cathedral, check out this guided tour with skip-the-line entrance.

#4 Visit Plaza de Toros

A very special place to visit in Seville is the Plaza de Toros. With the long, full name of Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla, this is Spain’s largest and most important arena for bullfighting.

With a capacity of 12,000 seats, this bullring was constructed starting in 1749, and over the next two centuries, it was enriched with different architectural features. The circular building boasts an impressive Baroque façade and the main entrance, called the Puerta del Príncipe, has a beautiful 16th-century iron gate.

The Plaza de Toros is still used for bullfighting, which is a controversial topic although an integral part of Andalusia’s cultural heritage. You can enjoy a visit to the building without attending a corrida. You will need to take a guided tour to visit the Plaza de Toros. The tour includes visiting a small museum that traces bullfighting’s history from the 18th century to the present day. 

Visitors can also see a collection of memorabilia inside the museum, including costumes and paintings with taurine depictions by artists such as Francisco de Goya and Velazquez.

Part of the tour is a stop at a chapel where toreros pray before entering the arena. This skip-the-line ticket with a guided tour is a great way to discover the arena and the bullfighting history through the centuries. 

#5 Check out the Metropol Parasol

There are many interesting attractions in Seville Spain, and one of them is the Metropol Parasol. Of recent construction, as it was built in 2011 by German architect Jurgen Mayer, it is one of the newest attractions in the city.  

The Metropol Parasol is a vast structure, 150 meters long and 25 meters high, made entirely of wood. The building’s design resembles a series of mushrooms, which earns it the nickname “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms). 

Boasting the claim of being the largest wooden structure in the world, this giant art piece is a series of walkways that take you over La Encarnacion Square and give you one of the city’s best views. The Metropol Parasol also has an upper terrace called “El Mirador”, which visitors can access to admire a 360-degree view of Seville. The terrace also features a tapas bar, a wonderful sunset drink spot.

The basement of the building has instead a small museum showcasing some ruins and artifacts from the Roman and Moorish periods.

Since the Metropol Parasol sits right in the heart of Seville’s old quarter, locals strongly criticized its construction. In fact, its futuristic-looking design was seen as in lousy juxtaposition with the ancient sites nearby. However, it quickly became a favorite tourist attraction. Take advantage of this skip-the-line entrance and guided tour of the Metropol Parasol with an optional city tour to not miss this Seville unique site. 

#6 Watch a Flamenco Show

Seville is the birthplace of the flamenco dance. This art form is based on the folkloric music traditions of southern Spain, and it developed within the gitano subculture of Andalusia. Since 2010, UNESCO has declared flamenco as one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,” so watching a flamenco show while in Seville is a must.

A traditional flamenco performance comprises three elements: the song, the guitar, and the dance. Usually, the flamenco dancer starts standing without showing emotions and then begins a steady beat of clapping and stamping with her foot. Eventually, as the music builds the rhythms, the dancer will break into a masterful dance of intricate steps.

There are many places in Seville where you can catch a flamenco show. You can choose from shows marketed for tourists, which include drinks and dinner, or smaller and more intimate experiences in venues frequented by the locals. Moreover, strolling around the city in the evening, there is a high chance that you will find a lively flamenco street performance that you can enjoy for free.

If this is your first time watching a flamenco show, we suggest this combo tour that offers a walking tour of Seville with tapas stop before enjoying a live flamenco dance. It is one of the Seville attractions you cannot miss.

#7 Visit Triana Neighborhood

Seville is a beautiful city with many neighborhoods to discover. One thing you shouldn’t miss is the Triana district, which boasts several attractions to visit. This neighborhood used to be frequented by sailors, Romani, and flamenco dancers, so it had a very lively vibe. 

Triana neighborhood is still a vibrant area of Seville. Among the things to do here are watching flamenco shows and shopping for local crafts, especially stunning azulejo tiles and ceramics. 

Speaking of architecture, this district has many Moorish and Baroque buildings. Among the attractions is the Iglesia Santa Ana, which beautifully blends Gothic and Mudejar styles and houses an impressive altarpiece.

To admire more about the typical Andalusian style, check out the Sailors’ Chapel, which houses an icon of the Virgin Mary known as Esperanza de Triana. If you are into religious buildings, you can also stop by the Capilla del Carmen, a small chapel with a tower and a colorful dome.

If there is an attraction the Triana neighborhood is famous for, it is the Mercado de Triana. One of the fun things to do in Seville, the market is located inside a beautiful structure built in Moorish Revival style. Step inside to browse and snack on top-quality produce, from vegetables to authentic cured meats and cheeses.

The Mercado de Triana also hosts several restaurants where you can enjoy some tapas or a sit-down lunch and a cooking school offering lessons on Spanish cuisine. 

The Mercado de Triana stands on the Castillo de San Jorge ruins, which was the seat of the Inquisition Court of Seville. Besides the market is a free-entrance, small museum retracing the castle’s history. 

There is no better way to experience the amazing Mercado di Triana than to join a guided tour of the market with tastings of typical Spanish and Andalusian cuisine.

#8 Stroll the historic Santa Cruz Neighborhood

A point of interest in Seville definitely is the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood. This charming district is Seville’s Jewish Quarter, an extraordinary labyrinth of narrow passages and quaint squares. 

The Santa Cruz neighborhood was once home to the city’s thriving Jewish community, whose cultural heritage can still be seen in the synagogues, restaurants, and quirky pieces of street art. 

The Jewish Quarter traces back to 1248 when King Ferdinand confined the Jews in this part of the city. Today, it is one of Seville’s most famous neighborhoods thanks to its many attractions, including the Real Alcázar and Seville Cathedral.

While in the district, make sure to stroll through the Jardines del Murillo, located on its eastern edge, and stop by the Patio de las Banderas square for an epic view of the Giralda Tower.

If you are wondering which guided tour of Seville to take for a top-notch experience of the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, this is the best one, with a local guide disclosing all the secrets and legends it keeps.

#9 See the Casa de Pilatos

Many visitors arriving in Seville skip this next thing to do in the city as it still is under the tourist radar. The Casa de Pilatos is a 16th-century civil palace that still serves as the permanent residence of the Duke of Medinaceli. 

The palace was built after the union between the Enriquez and Ribera families, who erected this mansion to demonstrate their power and wealth. What’s unique about this Seville best-kept secret is its architecture that mixes elements from Italian Renaissance, Gothic, and Mudejar styles. 

Its intriguing name, which translates as Pilate’s House, was given to the place after Fadrique Enríquez de Rivera visited the supposed mansion of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. 

A national monument since 1931, the palace’s beauty had it used as the set for popular Hollywood blockbusters like “Lawrence of Arabia”.

Walk through the palace to step back in time and admire gorgeous marble gates, ornate arches, and walls with colorful tiles. But the real showstopper attraction of the Casa de Pilatos is the traditional Andalusian courtyard that you will find at its center, ornated with grand columns, statues, and a beautiful fountain.

Get ready to be astonished by the Casa de Pilatos by purchasing this ground-floor entry ticket with audio guide.

#10 Paddle down the Guadalquivir River

Seville boasts many cultural attractions, but there are also several other fun Seville things to do. An excellent idea for a different day in the city is kayaking the beautiful Guadalquivir River. 

The Guadalquivir River that flows through Seville is the second-longest river in Spain and the only major river navigable. The river’s name comes from Arabic and means “the Big River”. Strolling alongside the bank of the Guadalquivir river alongside Seville orange trees is a lovely thing to do.

The Guadalquivir River was of fundamental importance during the golden era of Seville as it was the main European port for incoming goods from America, such as gold and tobacco. Besides being of historical relevance, the river runs along many of Seville’s awesome spots, including the Plaza de Toros, El Arenal neighborhood, and the 1992 Universal Exhibition.

Enjoy this educational and fun kayaking tour of Seville on the Guadalquivir River. Sail in Christopher Columbus’ footsteps by kayaking the river along a professional guide telling you many stories and facts about the city’s history while pointing out Seville’s marvelous attractions along the river banks.

#11 Marvel at the Palacio de las Dueñas

Seville might be famous for the Royal Alcazar, but it also boasts several smaller palaces that are equally beautiful. One such palace is the Palacio de las Dueñas, currently owned by the House of Alba, a prominent Spanish noble family.

The Palacio de las Dueñas was built in the late 15th century and is of great architectural and artistic heritage. Mainly in Renaissance style, the palace’s architecture also features Gothic and Mudejar elements. 

This palace shows its real magic once you step inside. The stunning central courtyard looks out onto the gardens filled with beautiful, colorful flowers and plants. The courtyard features columns and lacy arches of Mudejar style. All around, you will find the palace’s rooms, displaying a rich art collection with paintings by famous artists, sculptures, and antique furniture. 

You shouldn’t miss two spots when visiting the Palacio de las Dueñas: the main staircase with Flemish tapestries and the garden featuring an entire wall covered with colorful bougainvillea.

Discover the magnificent Palacio de Las Dueñas, the place of birth of one of the most important Spanish poets, Antonio Machado, with this entry ticket with audioguide. 

#12 Tour the Roman Ruins of Italica

You can take many fantastic day trips from Seville, which is an excellent idea if you are taking a longer holiday. At a short distance from the city, visitors will find the Roman ruins of Italica.

This exciting archeological site lies in the present-day town of Santiponce. Italica was Spain’s first Roman settlement, founded in 206 B.C. by the Roman general Scipio. Italica’s centrality in Roman history is invaluable, as it was the birthplace of the two Roman emperors, Trajan and Hadrian. Under Hadrian’s reign, the city of Italica knew its heyday, and it was enriched with many beautiful buildings. 

Stroll around the site’s cobblestoned streets to enter villas and houses featuring off-the-period mosaics. Particularly stunning are the mosaics in the House of the Exedra, House of the Birds, and House of the Planetarium. Other buildings to see are the amphitheater, which was the third-largest arena in the empire at the time, and the Traianeum, a temple built by Hadrian in honor of his father, Trajan.

Game of Thrones die-hard fans will likely recognize Italica since it was used to shoot scenes for “Dragon-Pit” and “King’s Landing” in seasons 7 and 8. You can take this highly-rated half-day guided tour to Italica from Seville to visit it with an expert guide who will tell you all about the area’s history.

What To Pack For Seville

Being in Andalusia, Seville doesn’t get extremely cold in the winter but the summer can get incredibly hot. So keep this in mind when planning your trip and what to pack. We have a huge Eurotrip packing guide you can get all the detailed tips but there are a few essentials we recommend no matter what the season.

• Daypack: You always want to make sure you have a day pack when you’re travelling.  Those collapsable backpacks like the New Outlander are great for this. If you want something studier for camera gear the Thule Covert DSLR Rolltop Backpack is a great option, just less portable than the Outlander.
• Shirts: In the summer a shirt is great for throwing on as added sun protection, in the cooler months its something you would wear most days anyway. Pack them in the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cube to keep them nice and tidy. If you haven’t yet started using packing cubes these will be a game changer.
• Pocket cap: The Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap is a great travel hat simply because you can fold the brim.  This makes it incredibly easy to pack and even while on the road, I can easily stick the cap in my back pocket if I want to take it off but not go through the trouble of putting it into my daypack.
• Shell jacket: It doesn’t make a lot of sense to bring an umbrella when you can bring a waterproof shell jacket which also doubles as an additional layer. Shells like this are perfect for travelling because they’re versatile, light and easily rollable.
• Shoes: The Merrell Moab Ventilators Hiking Shoe have been the bread and butter of all my trips for years now.  They’re incredibly comfortable and great in all situations.  These ones aren’t waterproof but for city walking, this fits the bill. As a sandal the Rainbow Sandals, Double Layer Leather Sandal I have reviewed extensively before and I can’t go on a summer trip without these.  They’re just so damn comfortable and great for extended periods of walking. An alternative is the KEEN H2 Newport Sandal – My review holds this as one of the best sandals on the market.  I love them because they’re just so versatile in summer conditions. Amphibious is the word that comes to mind.
• Packable Towel: Don’t make the mistake I made with quick dry towels and buy a small one.  It’s just not worth it to annoyingly dry yourself with something the size of a hand towel. This one is great because it’s large (XL in fact), packs into a small form factor, and dries quickly. While mostly used in hostels, this is the kind of thing that’s always nice to have with you because you never know.
• Insect repellant: Big cities usually aren’t a problem but again it’s one of those things where you never know. Pack the Off Mosquito Repellent just in case.
• Travel toiletries case: I’ve been very happy with this Muji toiletries organizer because of it’s simplicity in design and comprehensiveness in terms of pockets, zippers and elastic holders.  The must-have feature for any toiletries organizer is the hook. Hanging your bag is always a better option than letting it sit on the sink especially if you’re using communal hostel washrooms.
• Plug Adapters for UK and EU: I have a random assortment of plug adapters I’ve collected over the years.  Always do your research beforehand but in Europe you’re mostly dealing with these two types of plugs.  Universal adapters are good but the problem is with all the devices you have you’ll need multiple.  I find that individual adapters like mine are more useful.

Where To Stay In Seville

Below are four hotel recommendations for Seville, but if you’re looking for something more in-depth, check out this guide on where to stay in Seville.

Closing Thoughts

Seville is by far Southern Spain’s city with the most to offer. With fabulous UNESCO World Heritage sites, rich cultural heritage, and many culinary delights, Seville will capture your heart. Those interested in history and art will surely adore the city’s impressive architecture and palaces. Audiovisual geeks will have a blast uncovering all the locations of their favorite movies and TV shows. 

This guide on the fun things to do in Seville is a great starting point to organize your next trip to Southern Spain. The opportunities for exploring Seville are limitless, no matter what your interests are and what your budget is.

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