With full transparency, my expectations of Seville weren’t set high. I didn’t know much about it prior to visiting, and it is sometimes hidden in the shadow of the much grander and well known Barcelona and Madrid. Having now visited this beautiful Andalucian city, I can tell you there are some amazing things to do in Seville. It’s lack of reputation shouldn’t be an inhibitor, it’s quiet profile is quite possibly it’s biggest advantage.
As you might be able to tell, having now visited, this is now my favourite place in Spain. Even to the uninitiated, Seville would be my #1 recommendation in this great country.
Seville lays claim to being one of the sunniest cities in Europe. Admittedly in the later hours of a summer’s day, it can be oppressively hot. That wouldn’t deter me from recommending it, but I would suggest your accommodation has a pool to enjoy. The warmer weather only helps to make the sangria go down easier. If you’re looking for what to do in Seville, here’s our 5 top recommendations to make the most of this stunning city.
Check out Plaza de Espana
The Plaza de Espana was opened in 1929, for the World Expo hosted that year in Seville. It is a stunning design, and I’ll go on record in stating that it is my favourite plaza in all of Europe. Each way you look, there is a stunning scene before you. I’m sure in its day, it was perceived to be equally impressive for its visitors and hosts alike. The plaza is a large open space, surrounded with a canal of which you can hire a boat and paddle around at your own pace.
Around the plaza, you’ll find sections dedicated to each of the Spanish provinces, reflecting key scenes from their region. The canal is covered with 3 bridges, each with intricately painted and designed bollards. Even on a warm day, you’ll likely find some flamenco dancers busking in the shade. It’s a great spot to familiarise yourself with and get a taste for what is to come in Seville. Visit in the morning, or close to sunset for a very different perspective on the plaza.
Be amazed at the Alcazar
The famed Alcazar de Sevilla has been featured in Game of Thrones as the ‘water gardens of Dorne’. It is clear the producers didn’t need to do much to this impressive palace to dress their scenes up. An early morning walk through the Alcazar is recommended to get ahead of the heat of the day. It also happens to be one of the most popular things to do in Seville, so you want to get yourself ahead of the crowds where possible.
The Alcazar is a truly multi-cultural representation of all that has been in Seville with Arabic, baroque and influences from during the Renaissance period clearly visible in this stunning UNESCO world heritage listed palace. Set yourself half a day to immerse yourself in the palace and surrounding grounds. If you’re lucky, you’ll get some of the gardens to yourself at some point.
BOOK NOW: Alcazar Guided tour with priority entry || 90 minutes || from €24
Admire the Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral cannot be missed literally – it is the 3rd largest cathedral in the world. Its accompanying bell tower, the Giralda is easily spotted from most parts of Seville. The cathedral is home to Christopher Columbus’ tomb, whether his remains are there or not appears a perpetual mystery, but in any case, there is a prominent tomb dedicated to him here. It is a stunning church and a modern of European architecture that should be visited.
A trip up the Giralda will afford expansive views of Seville. You will need to make it up the steep ascent of 36 floors (albeit only around 10-12 steps per floor) however it is well worth the sweat.
BOOK NOW: Skip the line Seville cathedral and Giralda tour || 1 hour || From €18
Metropol Parasol
A more recent addition to Seville is the Metropol Parasol which was built in 2011 by a German architect, Jurgen Mayer. The wooden structure was built to reinvigorate the area in which it is built. It was completed amongst some public controversy. It is somewhat divisive with some locals perceiving it as an eye sore, but it seemed relatively well visited, and on a personal note, I thought it was incredibly unique and a great way of bringing people to the area which you may otherwise miss.
Atop the Parasol there are some fantastic views. There are some unique photo opportunities with the structure and the skyline in the background. Take the time to walk around and enjoy a free drink, included in the admission price on the top of the parasol.
Back on lower ground, be sure to wander around. The different angles make for great photos, including the various shadows that appear throughout the day. A short visit is all that is required.
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The food factor
Beyond great sights, Seville has a buzzing food culture. Fans of tapas will be thrilled that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whilst I certainly I haven’t been to every hole in the wall tapas, my stand out favourite (which earned a rare return visit) is La Bartola. My best recommendation would be the prawn ceviche and zucchini noodles. El Pinton also provides a range of tapas in a chilled out environment.
If you’re looking for a place to drink, the bar at the Alfonso XIII hotel is centrally located and has an outdoor terrace. You can watch the locals pass by, whilst also giving you a chance to check out this famous hotel, built for the World Expo in 1929.
Finding out what to do in Seville isn’t the hard part of a visit to this magnificent city. Leaving it however, might just pull on your heart strings. Enjoy your trip to Seville. Let us know what you got up to in Seville below!
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