What not to miss in Seville
Seville was a three-day stop on a long trip to Spain that lasted about a month in total. As you can understand within a month, we saw many cities, smaller and bigger. We can say with certainty that along with Granada, Seville was our favorite stop and we hope to be there again soon. When thinking back to the city, this is what comes to our mind: vividness, music, summer strolls, drinks, food, and more specifically the known to all, tapas. Also excessively high temperatures. But this is another story. So all this and much more made our stay unforgettable. Don’t miss out on the top attractions in Seville! Make sure to check out our guide on What Not to Miss in Seville.
Visit Plaza de España
We don’t want to sound exaggerated, but this place is fantastic. You will see painted ceramic benches arranged round the square. If you go closer you will understand that they are representing all the provinces in Spain. There are two towers, one on each side of the enclosed area, which surround the central building where the main rooms are. It was built by Aníbal González because of the Ibero-american Exhibition held in Seville in 1929.
Plaza de España is also known as “the Venice of Seville” because there is a canal in the middle of the square. There if you want you can rent a boat and row around. The square is open 24/7.
If you’re lucky like us, you’ll catch a flamenco show.
Visit the Royal Alcazar of Seville
It is the oldest royal palace that’s still in use in Europe today and its history began many, many years ago. Renaissance artists contributed magnificent pieces to the Alcazar’s
artistic treasures. Other styles you have the chance to admire are Gothic, and Romanesque.
One of the highlights of the Alcázar that you surely can’t miss is the Patio de las Doncellas courtyard.
This garden was projected in the main courtyard of the palace built by Peter I of Castile in the Alcázar of Seville. The excavations that took place in 2002 and 2004 revealed a garden with a long pool and two flowerbeds. The garden was buried after the assassination of Peter I and it seems that it was never used.
Opening Hours
October 29 – March: every day entry from 9.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
April – October 28: every day entry from 9:30 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Closed on January 1st and 6th, Good Friday and December 25th
From April to October, it is possible to visit the Alcazar in the evening (14 €). There are 4 sessions offered every evening, during which a limited group of people can visit the palace. You can purchase the tickets at the register.
Tickets
Tickets, from 18.50 € / under 14 years old 1.20 €
EU-Students (14 – 30 years) and 65+ € 8.5
Visit Cathedral and Giralda Tower
Cathedral is also a place you should not miss. The official name is “Catedral de Santa María de la Sede” and it is the largest church in the world(it is 127 metres long, 83 meters wide and 43 meters high). Its construction began in 1403 and it was completed in 1507. Inside you will find the Tomb of Christopher Columbus. Do not also forget to search for the Royal Chapel (Capilla Real), dedicated to King Ferdinand III of Castile.
The Giralda tower is certainly one of the highlights of Seville. The main body of the tower is a fine example of the Arab architecture. The name Giralda means “she who turns” – girar is to turn in Spanish, after the weather vane on top of the tower, a statue representing faith called El Giraldillo. In order to reach the top of the Giralda tower, it is not uncommon to take 45 minutes. There is no elevator and no stairs. There are about 35 floors to the top. The view from there is absolutely gorgeous.
Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 10:45 am. – 5:00 p.m.
Sundays: 2:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tickets
Tickets 16.37 €
Students under 25, and 65+: 8.75 €, up to 15 years free admission to the Cathedral
Audio guide (optional): 5 €
Metropol Parasol
It is the largest wooden structure in the world locally known as the Mushrooms of La Encarnación or Seville because it features six parasols in the form of giant mushroom. There are two concrete columns housing lifts taking visitors to the top. At the top there is a viewing point and a panoramic path.
If you prefer to avoid the queues (and who doesn’t) we would advise you to go sometime outside the evening.
Opening Hours
Everyday from 9:30 am to 11:45 pm.
Tickets
General admission: €5
Free admission: people born or resident in the city of Seville, disabled persons and their companions, children under 5 years.
From 21:30 general admission: €10. People born or resident in the city of Seville €5. Free admission disabled persons and their companions, children under 5 years.
The Torre del Oro
As you wander through the winding streets of Seville, Spain, be sure to make a stop at the majestic Torre del Oro. This stunning 13th-century tower stands tall on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, its golden tiles glinting in the sun.
As you approach the tower, you’ll be struck by its grandeur and history. The sturdy stone walls rise up from the ground, adorned with intricate carvings and arched windows that seem to gaze out over the city. The top of the tower is crowned with a beautiful dome, adding to its regal appearance.
Step inside the tower and you’ll be transported back in time to the Middle Ages. The stone walls and floors have been carefully preserved, and the rooms are filled with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the tower’s rich history.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Torre del Oro is the naval museum, which chronicles the tower’s role as a military defense structure. You can see ancient cannons, swords, and other weapons, as well as learn about the strategies and tactics used by the Spanish navy to defend the city.
But the real draw of the Torre del Oro is the breathtaking views from the top of the tower. From this vantage point, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the beauty of Seville and the surrounding region. It’s a truly breathtaking experience that you won’t want to miss.
So be sure to add the Torre del Oro to your list of must-see destinations in Seville. It’s a stunning piece of history that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who has the pleasure of visiting.
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