Out of every destination on my UK and Europe trip across Edinburgh, Bratislava, Varna, and Rome, Seville, Spain was the one I was looking forward to the most. I fell in love with Spain after my first visit two decades ago, but this would be my first time exploring Andalusia – a region known for its colorful cities, Moorish architecture, flamenco, orange tree-lined streets, and incredible food.
We spent five days exploring the city, and unlike many European destinations where a long weekend feels like enough, I wasn’t ready to leave. Looking back, I’d happily stay at least six to seven days to experience Seville at an even slower pace and take a few nearby day trips.
If you’re wondering what is actually worth doing in Seville, how many days you should spend there, and which attractions deserve a spot on your itinerary, this guide covers everything I learned from my visit. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply deciding if Seville is worth adding to your Spain itinerary, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in one of the country’s most unforgettable cities.
A Little History About Seville, Spain
Before visiting Seville, I knew it would be beautiful but what I didn’t realize was just how much history surrounded me everywhere I looked. From Roman ruins and medieval palaces to grand cathedrals and colorful neighborhoods, Seville has been shaped by thousands of years of different civilizations. Every culture that called this city home left behind something unique, making it one of Spain’s most fascinating places to explore.
From Roman City To Moorish Capital
Seville’s story began over 2,000 years ago when it was founded as the Roman city of Hispalis. Thanks to its location on the Guadalquivir River, it quickly became an important trading center connecting Spain with the Mediterranean. Centuries later, Muslim forces conquered much of the Iberian Peninsula, including Seville, in the 8th century. Their influence would then go on to permanently shape the city’s identity.
Many of Seville’s most recognizable features today, including intricate tilework, peaceful courtyards, horseshoe arches, and lush gardens are all rooted in Islamic architecture. The Royal Alcázar, one of the city’s most famous attractions, is a perfect example of Mudéjar architecture, a unique style that blends Islamic design with Christian craftsmanship.
The Golden Age Of Exploration
Following the Reconquista in 1248, Seville became one of the most powerful cities in Europe. When Christopher Columbus sailed to the Americas in 1492, Spain’s global influence expanded rapidly and Seville became the principal hub for Spain’s American trade, lasting for almost two centuries.
This period obviously brought immense wealth, helping fund many of the magnificent churches, palaces, and public buildings you see today. The impressive Seville Cathedral, now one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, is a reminder of this prosperous era.
A City That Celebrates Life
While Seville’s history is long and remarkable, what makes the city feel so special today is how alive it is. Locals gather in lively plazas after sunset, friends meet over tapas that seem to last for hours, and flamenco continues to be an important part of Andalusian culture. History isn’t hidden away in museums; you can see it in everyday life here.
Walking through Seville often feels like stepping through different periods of history within just a few blocks. And for me, understanding Seville’s history (which my tour guide explained in great detail during a visit to the Seville Cathedral) made exploring the city even more rewarding.
How Many Days Do You Need In Seville?
One of the most common questions when planning a trip is “how many days should I spend in Seville?”. Most travel guides recommend spending two to three days in the city, and if you’re short on time, that’s enough to see many of Seville’s most famous landmarks. However, after spending five days here myself, I honestly think Seville deserves a little more of your time.
2 Days In Seville
Two days is enough if your goal is simply to see the highlights. You’ll have time to visit a few of the most famous attractions, but it will be a busy itinerary and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced the city’s most iconic sights. However, it is essential that you have a reservation or a time-entry ticket to all the places you want to visit; otherwise you may not be able to get in.
3 Days In Seville
Three days is what many visitors consider the sweet spot for Seville. AN extra day gives you the chance to slow down, enjoy longer meals, explore neighborhoods beyond the main attractions, and experience Seville’s relaxed atmosphere instead of rushing from one landmark to the next.
5 Days In Seville
Five days is exactly how long I spent in Seville and I wish I had just one more day. Unlike many European cities where I feel pressured to fit everything into a packed itinerary, Seville made me want to slow down and it was the perfect end to our multi-country trip. It was incredibly walkable, easy to navigate, and never felt rushed. For me, Seville wasn’t just a city to see, it was a city to experience.
Instead of trying to fit everything into a packed schedule, we were able to revisit places that were closed the first time we went, take our time exploring, enjoy leisurely meals, spend time at the pool of our hotel, and discover beautiful streets and hidden corners that weren’t originally on the itinerary. However, we still didn’t have enough time for a couple more things we wanted to do and an extra day or two would’ve allowed us to get it all checked off.
Best Day Trips From Seville
If you have extra time, Seville makes an excellent base for exploring southern Spain. Some of the most popular day trips include:
| City | Distance From Seville | Approximate Travel Time | Why You Should Visit |
| Córdoba | 140 km | 40 to 50 minutes by high-speed train1 hour 40 minute by car | Home to the breathtaking Mezquita-Catedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a beautiful historic center |
| Cádiz | 120 km | 1 hour 30 minutes by train1 hour 20 minutes by car | One of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities known for its beaches, seafood, and historic old town. |
| Jerez de la Frontera | 90 km | 1 hour by train1 hour by car | Famous for its sherry bodegas, Andalusian horses, flamenco and relaxed atmosphere. |
| Ronda | 130 km | 2.5 to 3 hours by train2 hours by car | Famous for its dramatic clifftop location, the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, and breathtaking views |
| The White Villages Pueblos Blancos) | 90 to 120 (depending on the village) | 1.5 to 2.5 hours by car | Picturesque hilltop towns (Zahara de la Sierrra, Grazalema, Arcos da la Frontera) with whitewashed buildings and incredible mountain scenery. |
Best Time To Visit Seville
Seville is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary greatly depending on when you visit. While every season has something to offer, the weather plays a huge role in how much you’ll enjoy exploring the city on foot.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is widely considered the best time to visit Seville, and for good reason. Comfortable temperatures, blooming orange blossoms, and longer daylight hours make it ideal for sightseeing. This is also when the city hosts two of its biggest annual events: Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (the April Fair), bringing Seville to life with colorful celebrations, traditional dress, music, and flamenco. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere, spring is hard to beat.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is beautiful, but be prepared for the heat. I visited in the beginning of June, and while I still had an incredible time, temperatures were already around 35°C during the day. It was definitely manageable, but only because we planned our days around the weather, stayed hydrated, took breaks indoors, and embraced the city’s slower pace.
By July and August, temperatures regularly climb above 40°C, making sightseeing much more challenging and potentially uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon.
If you’re visiting in summer, plan to explore early in the morning or later in the evening (now I really understand why they need siestas!), wear lightweight clothing, and expect to spend plenty of time seeking shade.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another excellent time to visit Seville. Temperatures gradually cool after the peak of summer, making it much more comfortable to spend long days exploring the city’s attractions, neighborhoods, and outdoor cafés. You’ll also find fewer crowds than during the busy spring season while still enjoying plenty of sunshine. If you prefer warm weather without the extreme summer heat, fall is one of the best times to visit.
Winter (December to February)
Winters in Seville are generally mild compared to much of Europe, making it a great destination if you’re looking to escape colder temperatures where you’re from. While you may encounter occasional rain and cooler evenings, daytime temperatures are still comfortable for sightseeing. You’ll also benefit from smaller crowds and often lower accommodation prices compared to the peak travel seasons.
Tips For Visiting Seville
Seville is an easy city to explore, especially if you’re comfortable walking, but there are a few things to know before visiting. Spain has a slightly different rhythm from that of many North American travellers, so understanding the local schedule can make your trip easier.
Getting From Seville Airport To The City
Seville Airport (SVQ) is pretty close to the city center, making arrival fairly straightforward. The airport is about 15 minutes or so from central Seville. You can take a taxi, use a ride-hailing service like Uber which we did, or take the airport bus (around 35 minutes) into the city. If you’re staying in the historic center, check your accommodation’s exact location before deciding how you want to get there. Some streets in the old town are for pedestrians only or difficult for vehicles to access, so you may still have a short walk from your drop-off point.
Getting Around Seville
One of my favorite things about Seville is how walkable it is. We spent all our time on foot exploring, often logging 20,000 to 30,000 steps a day. Many of the major attractions are relatively close together, and some of the best moments came from simply wandering through the streets between planned stops.
There is public transportation available, including buses, trams, and a metro, but we didn’t need it during our stay.
Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll likely walk more than you expect, especially if you’re visiting multiple attractions, exploring different neighborhoods, and stopping for food along the way.
Is Seville Safe?
I personally felt very safe in Seville throughout our stay. But as with any major tourist destination, it’s still sensible to use normal precautions, particularly in busy areas and crowded attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, but I never felt uncomfortable walking around the city.
Do You Need Cash?
Credit cards are widely accepted, including at restaurants and shops, so we didn’t carry or used much cash at all. Tipping also isn’t expected in the same way it is in Canada or the United States. I heard that you can leave a maximum of 10% or just round up to the next dollar, but when we did try to leave a small tip and tell them the amount we wanted back, we got the exact change back regardless. You may see a service charge at some establishments, but don’t feel obligated to tip simply because you’re accustomed to doing so at home.
Is Only Spanish Spoken?
Because Seville is a pretty touristic city, English is widely spoken, although not at every location you may visit. My husband also speaks Spanish, which made things easier for us, particularly when interacting with locals or visiting places outside the main tourist areas. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, learning a few basic phrases is always appreciated.
Understand The Spanish Schedule
One of the biggest adjustments for visitors can be the timing of meals and daily life in Spain. Siesta hours are traditionally associated with the afternoon, when some businesses close for a few hours before reopening later in the day. While the traditional siesta isn’t as universal as it once was, you may still encounter businesses that close in the afternoon, particularly smaller shops and locally-run establishments. Don’t panic if the city feels quieter in the afternoon; it’s part of the pace of life here.
Dinner also starts later than you may expect. Many restaurants don’t open for dinner as early as 5 or 6 PM. That said, we didn’t have much trouble finding places that were open when we wanted to eat – you just may be a little more limited on options. The Spanish people usually eat dinner between 9 and 11 PM. Partly because the sun sets much later in the day and because of lunch is large and siestas happen mid-afternoon, people don’t feel hungry for dinner until much later than North Americans are used to.
Sundays And Holidays
Some shops, attractions, and businesses may have reduced hours or close entirely on Sundays and public holidays. If there’s something specific you want to visit, check its opening hours before building it into your itinerary that day. This is particularly important if you’re planning a shorter trip and don’t have much flexibility to move activities around.
Plan Around The Heat
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, plan your sightseeing around the weather. I recommend having an early start, taking advantage of indoor attractions during the hottest part of the afternoon, drinking plenty of water, and leaving some time to slow down.
Book Popular Attractions Ahead Of Time
Seville’s most popular attractions can get can get extremely busy, particularly during peak travel periods. I recommend booking tickets in advance for places such as the Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral, especially if you have a specific day or time you’d to visit. This also makes it easier to build a realistic itinerary instead of spending part of your trip waiting in lines.
Bring Sun Protection
If you’re visiting outside the cooler months, don’t underestimate the sun. Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle can make a noticeable difference, particularly when you’re spending hours walking between attractions.
Dress For Both Sightseeing And Attractions
Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes are essential when visiting Seville, particularly in summer. If you plan to visit. Churches and religious sites, it’s also worth carrying something lightweight like a shawl or cardigan that provides a little more coverage for the shoulders and chest. In this Instagram carousel, I share all the fashion tips you’ll need for surviving the Seville heat!
Give Yourself Time To Wander
My biggest tip for Seville is probably the simplest: don’t over-plan every minute. Seville is one of those cities where some of the best moments happen between the attractions. Walk down a street because the architecture caught your eye. Stop for a coffee and try a new dessert you haven’t seen before. Sit in a plaza and people-watch. Take a longer lunch than you’re used to and enjoy the time instead of rushing. Wander through a neighborhood without checking your itinerary. The slower pace was one of the things I loved most about visiting Seville. That’s why I suggest staying longer if you can. Five days gave us plenty of time to see everything without rushing.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is one thing I recommend having for every international trip, even if you don’t expect anything to go wrong. Unexpected medical expenses, trip interruptions, cancellations, delays, lost luggage, or other travel problems can become expensive quickly. For a trip to Spain, make sure your policy provides adequate emergency medical coverage and covers the activities and destinations included in your itinerary. It’s best to purchase travel insurance before your trip rather than waiting until you’re already traveling.
SafetyWing is a great choice for travelers and digital nomads and offers 2 flexible plans: Essential (travel medical insurance) and Complete (full health insurance with extra travel protections).
What To Eat And Drink In Seville
Food is a big part of experiencing Seville, and while you’ll find plenty of familiar Spanish dishes throughout the city, there are several Sevillian and Andalusian specialties worth trying.
Sevillian Foods To Try
Espinacas con garbanzos is one of the dishes most associated with Seville and you’ll find it often served as a tapa. It’s a simple but flavorful combination of spinach, chickpeas, garlic, cumin, and spices.
Solomillo al whisky is another Seville specialty to look for. It is pork tenderloin served with a rich, garlicky whisky sauce and is a great example of the hearty tapas you’ll find around the city.
A few other Sevillian favorites include pringá, a small sandwich filled with the meat from a traditional stew; montaditos, which are small sandwiches with a variety of fillings; serranitos, an Andalusian sandwich made with pork, Serrano ham, tomato, and green pepper; and carrillada, slow-cooked pork cheeks served in a rich sauce.
If you’re visiting during Semana Santa, look for torrijas, a Spanish version of French toast that is particularly associated with Seville during Holy Week.
And don’t overlook the city’s famous bitter oranges. Seville is filled with orange trees, and the fruit is used in everything from marmalade and desserts to sauces and liqueurs – but not quite edible on its own. A majority of the bitter oranges are actually exported to the UK.
Andalusian Food Worth Trying
You’ll also find plenty of dishes that aren’t exclusive to Seville but are an important part of Andalusian cuisine. Salmorejo and gazpacho are super refreshing during Seville’s hot summer, while pescado frito (fried fish) is another Andalusian staple. Jamón ibérico is also widely available and is a must if you enjoy cured meats.
What To Drink In Seville
When it comes to drinks, don’t assume you have to order sangria. Tinto de verano, red wine mixed with a fizzy citrus drink and served over ice, is a popular and refreshing choice in the summer heat.
You may also want to try Cruzcampo, the beer brand founded in Seville in 1904 and closely associated with the city. Sangria is still widely available and worth trying if you enjoy it, while local Spanish wines are another good option.
If you’re interested in sherry, you’ll find it throughout Seville, although Jerez de la Frontera, about an hour away, is the place to go if you want to explore sherry at its source.
My advice is to order a few different tapas rather than committing to one large meal. Some of the best parts of Seville are discovering dishes you may not have heard of before and enjoying them with a drink.
A Short List Of Restaurants And Cafés I Loved In Seville
Turning a meal into part of the experience when traveling is so important to me. From traditional tapas and fresh orange juice to bakeries and cafés, we had some really memorable meals during our stay in Seville.
Tradevo Sevilla – This was one of my favorite meals in Seville. Tradevo focuses on modern Andalusian cuisine, taking traditional tapas and giving them a more creative approach. This restaurant is known for its high-quality seasonal ingredients and seafood. It’s also recommended by the Michelin guide which is a good indication of the quality of cooking. However, it seems to be permanently closed now, which is a shame because I absolutely loved their food and had one of the best tuna salads ever.
Almazen Café – A great spot for breakfast or brunch if you’re looking for something a little different from a traditional Spanish breakfast. They have a mix of Spanish and French-inspired dishes and I really liked my dulce de leche crepe. They also use real pistachios for my latte!
Entre Dos Hermandades – We went here for dinner and it seems to be a popular local spot. They had amazing, fresh seafood and the biggest squid and giant clams I’ve ever had. The food is so delicious and well worth the value.
PANYPIU – This artisan bakery and café is a great option for breakfast, coffee, or a quick stop for lunch. The pastries and baked goods are the main attractions, but you’ll also find focaccia, sandwiches, quiches, and other light meals.
Las Tablas Sevilla – A great place for tapas with a rustic vibe and reasonably priced. They have high-quality food in a central location as well and many locals love it here. It’s a great stop when you’re in between attractions and shopping.
Alimentari Cucina Italiana Pizzeria – And then there’s the restaurant that probably makes the least sense on a Seville food list, but I have to include it. After spending a day in Rome, Italy prior to Seville, I was craving Italian food. Alimentari was amazing and they have fresh pasta and stone-oven pizza, and the food genuinely hit the spot.
And as always, I love recommending visitors to check out the Michelin Guide when visiting a destination – they really do have some amazing food worth going for.
Where To Stay In Seville
Where you stay can make a big difference in Seville, particularly because you’ll probably be spending a lot of time walking around the historic center. Staying somewhere central enough that you can easily walk to the major attractions, but paying close attention to the hotel’s location within a neighborhood is also important.
Where I Stayed
I stayed at the Hotel Maciá Kubb, which is just outside Seville’s historic center. I actually liked being slightly removed from the busiest part of the old town as it was quieter, but still within walking distance to the main attractions.
The hotel itself had several things going for it – the staff were great, tehre was a rooftop pool, and the rooftop offered a nice view over the city. After walking around Seville in the summer heat, having somewhere to cool off was definitely a plus.
However, there were a couple of things that would stop me from choosing this hotel again. The biggest issue was noise. The rooms were not well soundproofed, and even when people were loud outside or rolling their suitcase in the late nights or early mornings, it genuinely felt like there was almost no barrier between the room and the hallway, which can make it hard to sleep. The rooftop pool area could also have been better designed. The water was surprisingly cold considering how hot it was outside which is a relief, but I don’t do well with the cold and could barely get in even in the middle of the day. There also weren’t enough loungers for the size of the space and I ended up having to share one with my husband.
Hotels I’d Consider Instead
Hotel Alfonso XIII, A Luxury Collection Hotel – One of Seville’s most iconic luxury hotels located in the historic center, close to the Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral with an outdoor pool and gardens.
CoolRooms Palacio Villapanés – This 5-star hotel is housed in an 18th-century palace on a quieter street in the historic center with spacious rooms, a rooftop plunge pool, and a location that keeps you to the major sights without putting you directly on a busy tourist street.
Querencia de Sevilla, Autograph Collection – If you want a central, stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace and pool, this hotel is a prime walking location near major sights and a beautiful design that captures Andalusian culture.
Hotel Vincci Molviedro – A great option if you want a stylish 4-star hotel and not pay luxury 5-star prices. It’s centrally located near Plaza Nueva, with Seville Cathedral and the Arenal neighborhood nearby.
What To Look For When Booking Your Hotel In Seville
Based on my experience in Seville and traveling to Europe, I would prioritize:
- A central but quieter street, rather than directly on a busy nightlife street.
- Good soundproofing, especially if you’re a light sleeper (make sure to read the hotel reviews).
- Air conditioning, particularly from June to September.
- A pool or rooftop terrace if visiting during the hotter months.
- A location within walking distance of the major attractions.
- A comfortable room, since you’ll appreciate having somewhere peaceful to return to after walking around all day.
For Seville, I don’t think you need to stay directly beside the Cathedral or Royal Alcázar to have a convenient location. The city is incredibly walkable, so being a 10 to 15 minute walk away can actually give you a quieter stay without sacrificing much convenience.
The Best Things To Do In Seville, Spain
Seville has enough historic sites, palaces, churches, neighborhoods, plazas, and hidden corners to easily fill five days, but I wouldn’t recommend trying to see everything in a short visit. Some attractions are absolute must-sees, some are worth visiting if you have extra time, and others are places you’ll naturally pass while exploring the city.
Here are the places I think are actually worth adding to your Seville itinerary:
Royal Alcázar Of Seville
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – If you only have time for a few major attractions, make this one of them. The Alcázar is one of the oldest royal palaces still in use in Europe, with centuries of architectural additions layered throughout the complex. Its history reflects the different cultures that shaped Seville, with Islamic, Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and later influences visible throughout the palace. The courtyards, intricate tilework, carved plasterwork, and enormous gardens are what makes this place so memorable. It’s also famous for appearing in Game of Thrones.
Antiquarium De Sevilla At Las Setas
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This attraction is included if you have a ticket to the Royal Alcázar. It is actually underneath the Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas, and contains an important archaeological site with Roman remains discovered during excavations for an underground car park. This site was opened in 2011.
Seville Cathedral
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Seville Cathedral is one of the city’s most impressive sights and was the most beautiful and largest cathedral I’ve visited so far. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest church by size after St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. It was built on the site of the city’s former mosque, which explains why Islamic architectural influences remain part of the building’s history. The former mosque’s minaret became the Giralda. La Giralda is where my opinion differs from the typical recommendation. The climb uses a series of ramps rather than staircases so people could ascend on horseback and there are more than 30 ramps before reaching the top. While the views are nice, I personally don’t think it was worth it since the space is very cramped, parts of it are closed off, and a fence is blocking you from even taking pictures of the city. Here’s an Instagram reel walkthrough I shared.
Iglesia Colegial Del Divino Salvador
Time Spent – 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Your ticket to the Seville Cathedral also gives you access to this one for free. You can also buy tickets here and get access to the Seville Cathedral if you’re buying it in person, as the line is much shorter here.
El Salvador is the largest church in Seville after the Cathedral, making it an easy addition if you enjoy historic churches. This Baroque church was built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries on a site with much older religious history. The location previously contained the city’s Great Mosque, and archaeological traces from Roman and Visigothic periods can be found in this area. The interior has elaborate Baroque altarpieces, ancient relics, and architecture, along with underground ruins and a small courtyard in the back.
Plaza De España
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – If there’s one place in Seville that feels almost too beautiful to be real, this might be it. This plaza was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 and it has an enormous semicircular layout with tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces along with bridges, fountains, and elaborate ceramic details. It’s also a fun stop for film fans because it was used as a filming location for Star Wars: Episode II – Attack Of The Clones. I recommend arriving early if photography is a priority. I arrived around 8 AM, which meant only a few people. The downside was that some areas still had shadows because the sun hadn’t fully reached the plaza yet. Here’s an Instagram reel on how it looks.
Parque De María Luisa And Plaza De América
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Located beside Plaza De España, this park is an easy addition to your itinerary.
Casa De Pilatos
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – Casa De Pilatos is one of Seville’s most beautiful historic palaces and one that deserves more attention. Construction began in 1483 and the palace evolved over the centuries. Its architecture combines Gothic-Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Romantic influences, creating a different atmosphere from the Royal Alcázar. The central courtyard is beautiful with many colorful flowers, with elaborate ceramic tiles, arches, and sculptures. The palace also contains important works of art and Roman archaeological pieces. It also appeared in several films, including Knight & Day and Kingdom Of Heaven.
Barrio De Santa Cruz
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours, or simply explore it as you walk
Why You Should Visit – You don’t need to necessarily set aside a particular time here as you’ll likely find yourself walking through it anyway. This is Seville’s former Jewish quarter, with narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, hidden courtyards, and small plazas. A significant Jewish community lived here during the medieval period until the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492.
Handmade The Brand (Espadrilles) And Toni Pons
Time Spent – 15 to 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – If you’re looking for a useful souvenir from Spain, consider buying a pair of espadrilles. Espadrilles are one of Spain’s most recognizable traditional styles of footwear, with a history stretching back thousands of years. The classic design typically features a woven or natural-fibre sole. I ended up needing a pair after accidentally leaving my usual Valentino travel sandals at home, and only had a pair of really painful Keds and my Havaianas (which were meant for the hotel), and the amazing and fun team at Handmade the Brand helped me with choosing a pair of espadrilles that saved my feet and turned out to be one of my favorite unexpected purchases from the trip. They’re lightweight, with amazing cushioning, and easy to wear in the summer and much more useful than the typical souvenir.
Toni Pons is another Spanish brand worth knowing if you’re looking for espadrilles. The company has been making footwear in Spain since 1946 and specializes in handcrafted espadrilles with materials such as jute, cotton, and linen. You’ll find plenty of styles from traditional flat espadrilles to wedges. I was browsing the store and realized they look exactly like the wedges my mom wears back home, and it turns out this was the brand she wears. They’re at least $40 CAD cheaper than buying them in Canada, and don’t forget that there’s a VAT refund. I ended up buying an extra pair for my mom since they’re her favorites and my husband also bought a pair of loafers. However, if you’re planning to wear your brand new shoes on your trip, know that sometimes you need to break them in, so have some blister patches ready (my husband suffered without them!).
Torre Del Oro
Time Spent – A few minutes for photos
Why You Should Visit – The Torre Del Oro is one of Seville’s most recognizable landmarks and sits directly beside the Guadalquivir River. The Almohads built the tower in the early 13th century as part of Seville’s defensive system to control access to the river. The tower served several purposes and now houses a small naval museum. If you want, you can visit the museum and climb the upper level for views over the river and city.
Mercado De Triana
Time Spent – 30 to 60 minutes
Why You Should Visit – Across the Guadalquivir River, Triana is one of Seville’s most distinctive neighborhoods and this mercado is a good place to experience the city’s food culture, with stalls selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, and prepared foods. The market sits on the site of the former Castillo De San Jorge, a medieval fortress that later became associated with the Spanish Inquisition.
Plaza De Cabildo
Time Spent – 15 to 20 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This small semicircular plaza is easy to miss, which is part of what makes it fun to find. It sits just off the busy streets of central Seville and is surrounded by elegant historic buildings. It’s a nice little photography stop and doesn’t require much time.
Palacio De La Condesa De Lebrija
Time Spent – 45 minutes to 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This 16th-century palace is particularly interesting because it feels like a museum hidden inside a residential palace. The Countess of Lebrija renovated the building in the 19th century and filled it with an impressive collection of art and archaeological pieces. One of its highlights is the collection of Roman mosaics excavated from nearby Italica, which cover much of the palace’s floors.
Convent Sweets From Seville’s Cloistered Convents
Time Spent – 5 to 10 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This is one of the more unique and interesting experiences you can have in Seville. Several historical convents still sell handmade sweets prepared by cloistered nuns. Two of them are Convento De San Leandro (known for yemas) and Santa Ines (known for traditional pastries). You purchase the sweets through a traditional turno, or wooden revolving hatch, where you ring a bell, then place your money (you’ll need cash here), and rotate it while the nuns provide you the sweets in a paper bag without direct contact.
Calle Sierpes
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Calle Sierpes is Seville’s most famous shopping street and one of the city’s historic pedestrian streets. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages and over the centuries, it became a center for shops, cafés, printing houses, and literary life. Today, you can find a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and luxury fashion brands.
La Carbonería
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – If you want to experience flamenco without commiting to a large, formal dinner show, this is an option worth considering. It is known for free flamenco performances in a much smaller and intimate settings. Seating fills quickly so arrive early.
AIRE Ancient Baths Sevilla
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – There are several AIRE Ancient Baths around the world, but if you’ve never been, visiting while you’re in Seville is a great option. After several days of walking around, this is the kind of experience that gives you a nice break from sightseeing. It is housed in a restored historic building and offers a thermal bathing experience inspired by ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman traditions. You’ll want to visit when it’s not extremely hot out though!
Naturalmente Aromas
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – If you love fragrance, this little shop is a fun alternative to another historic attraction. It’s particularly appealing if you want to bring home something more memorable than a typical souvenir. They have fragrance in glass jars, and you are allowed to smell up to five; otherwise, your nose will get overwhelmed and make it hard for you to differentiate between the scents. The scents I found were quite unique and if you want something other than the typical fragrances you get everywhere, this is where you can get it. And the perfumes last on you for a very long time. They cost between €24 to €35 depending on the type you get and the size.
Plaza De Toros De La Real Maestranza
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – This is one of Spain’s most famous bullrings and an important part of Seville’s cultural history. Construction of the current bullring took place over the 18th and 19th centuries, with the complex completed in 1881. It also has a bullfighting museum containing historic artwork, costumes, and other objects connected to the tradition. Whether you want to visit depends on your personal feelings about bullfighting. If you are considering attending an actual bullfight, be aware that it can be graphic.
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