As capital of the province of Andalusia, Seville has many things to offer. A city rich in history and known for its great weather, many delicious tapas bars and flamenco. We can find Seville in the southern part of Spain, near Malaga and Huelva, about 80 kilometers from the coast. The perfect time to visit Seville is before the high summer season, when the temperatures are still pleasant. Why you should stay in Seville? Let’s explain you with these top 8 things to do in Seville.
The best things to do in Seville
Discover the best and most important things to do in Seville and don’t miss anything during your trip to this city!
1. Plaza de España
This is the first thing you have to discover when you are in Seville. Plaza de España is a square located in the Parque de María Luisa, the construction of this place was one of the biggest building projects in 1929, built for the Ibero-American Exposition. It’s a semi-circular square with a palace, a canal, fountains… The palace contains some of the administrative buildings of Seville, but also a gallery. The square showcases a mix of Mudéjar and Renaissance styles.
2. Real Alcázar
The Real Alcázar is a Royal Palace of built in the 14th century, being the oldest palace of Europe that is still being used – the King and Queen stay in this palace when they visit Seville. The palace is also built in the Mudéjar style, influenced by the Arab architecture. In the middle of the palace we’ll find an elongated pond surrounded by gardens. Some of the parts are built in a Renaissance style which makes it a very unique place to visit. To enter the palace you have to pay a ticket of 14 euros.
3. Cathedral of Seville
The Cathedral of Seville is another cultural sight you cannot miss while visiting Seville. It is the main church of the archdiocese of Seville, built in the Gothic style, which is also called “Catedral de Santa María de la Sede” in Spanish. It is a very important place to visit since it’s the largest church building in Europe after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and St Paul’s Cathedral in London. In 1987 it was registered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
4. La Giralda
The cathedral of Seville features a large bell tower called “La Giralda”, with a height of almost 100 meters. The tower was built by the Moors in the 12th century and later the Christians added the minaret in the bell tower. The Giralda is a perfect symbol of different architectural styles, of different civilizations – also declared a World Heritage Site.
5. The Triana district
The local people say that if you visit the Triana district, you will be able to really discover the culture of Seville – certainly one of the best things to do in Seville! It is located across the Guadalquivir river. In the 16th and 17th century this was the district where the artisans sold their crafts to the Spanish colonies. This is still visible when you walk through its streets; you’ll find the azulejo-tiles everywhere. The streets are colorful and all the houses have flowerpots on its facades.
6. Metropol Parasol
You must recognize this huge and mysterious building. It is the largest wooden structure in the world! Since 2011 it has been open for the public, you can buy a ticket and walk over the parasol and contemplate the city from a height of 28 meters. It is located in the heart of the city, on Plaza de Encarnación.
7. Casa de Pilatos
Besides the Royal Palace, another impressive building you should discover is the Casa de Pilatos, of an Italian Renaissance style and Mudéjar style. It is a fabulous example of Sevillian architecture of the 16th century, located on the Plaza de Pilatos, which will be definitely worth the visit. All walls are decorated with colorful tiles and the building is full of surprises. Let’s discover them yourself.
8. Parque de María Luisa
The last thing on our list with best things to do is visiting the María Luisa Park. It is located next to the famous Plaza de España. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city during your getaway in Seville. In the park you can relax and enjoy the sun, take a walk or ride a bicycle. The park also has some notable buildings and museums to discover.
Besides these 8 things to do in Seville, the city has many traditions and festivities that take place around the year, such as the Feria de Abril or Semana Santa. Take advantage of these traditions and visit Seville when they are celebrated.