13 Top Attractions in Sevilla you Can’t Miss

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Seville, or Sevilla as the Spaniards call it, is arguably one of the most famous cities in the country. Located deep in the heart of Spain’s Andalucía region, the city is known for its warm temperatures, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine and fiery culture. In this article, we will cover some of the top attractions in Sevilla that will ensure your trip will be one you’ll never forget!

If you want to explore even more of Sevilla and other amazing cities in Andalucía, The Basque Country and beyond, don’t miss out on Citylife’s many trip packages around Spain! If you prefer exploring on your own, make sure you follow our Ultimate Guide to Spain so you can plan your travels like a pro!

1. Visit the Historic Cathedral

As the centerpiece of the city, the Gothic style Cathedral is an undeniable top attraction in Sevilla. Counting 80 chapels, the cathedral truly is a world on its own. That is also one of the reasons why this spectacular building earns its spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. From the outside, you can admire the beautiful facade with subtle hints to the Muslim culture to honor the former Mosque once standing on its spot. Once you walk inside, a world full of treasure awaits you. The biggest eye-catcher of them all is the crypt of Cristopher Colon.

2. Climb the Giralda

Right next to the Cathedral and overlooking the city, stands La Giralda. This Moorish style bell tower used to be the minaret of the former Mosque and has 24 bells! Instead of stairs, there are 34 ramps leading the way to the top. Back in the day, these ramps made it easier for the Muezzin (the official who calls Muslims to prayer) to reach the belfry by horse. The brave among us can climb to the top of the bell tower, and will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Sevilla.

3. See a Flamenco Show

To fully explore the flamenco scene, join us on Citylife’s trip to Sevilla and let’s watch authentic flamenco together!

An undeniable top attraction in Sevilla are the traditional flamenco shows! This powerful, traditional Andalucian dance is the city’s number 1 tourist attraction, and there’s no question as to why. Experience a flamenco performance from the first row in a typical tablao or learn about it during a visit to the Flamenco Museum of Cristina Hoyos. Don’t forget to pass by Plaza de España for a free show by public performers as well!

4. Tour the Royal Alcazar

The Royal Alcázar is an essential stop on our list of things to do in Sevilla! To this day the former Moorish palace is being used by the Spanish royalty which makes it Europe’s oldest continuously used royal palace. The site also provides the perfect mix between Moorish, Renaissance and Mudéjar culture and architecture. Its uniqueness has not gone unnoticed as the palace was even used in the hit HBO series Game Of Thrones. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Grutesco Gallery and snap a shot of the most beautiful garden views!

5. Climb the Torre del Oro

On the riverbanks of the Guadalquivir river, stands the Torre del Oro. The 13th-century fort was built to reinforce the city’s military defense and is a must of what to see in Sevilla! As with most monuments in Sevilla, the tower was also reinforced and used by The Moors when they controlled the city. Because of that and its location next to the river, the Torre del Oro now serves as the city’s official Naval Museum. On top of the fort, you can enjoy an amazing view of the Triana quarter, the Cathedral and Guadalquivir River.

6. Try the Incredible Tapas

The list of top attractions in Sevilla could be endless, but its tapas deserves a special mention! Sevilla is not only a beautiful city, but it will also give your taste buds a treat. In the different barrios of the city, you will find streets packed with typical tapas bars. Be like a local and hop from bar to bar for the rest of the evening. In each tapas bar you try out their specialty, as most of them will have 1 or 2 unique dishes. Salmorejo, solomillo al whisky, caracoles or oxtail stew, there is enough variety to choose from!

7. Explore the Santa Cruz Neighbourhood

The Santa Cruz quarter captivates the charm and character of the city. When walking through the narrow, labyrinth street you can feel the rich history of Sevilla. Santa Cruz used to be a vibrant Jewish neighborhood and now makes spaces for local souvenir shops, bars and typical flamenco tablaos. For the art fans among us, in Plaza de Santa Cruz you will find Murillo’s final resting place and you can pay homage to the famous painter. After your neighborhood walk, you can unwind and enjoy a refreshing beer with some tapas at one of the many terraces in Santa Cruz.

8. Explore the Halls of the Casa de Pilatos

Casa de Pilatos is one of the lesser known palaces in Sevilla but can be seen as one of the city’s hidden treasures. The 16-century palace lays behind the Alcázar and mainly holds its own charm and beauty in its small gardens. Casa de Pilatos is named after the house of Pontius Pilate himself, as the original owners saw it as an inspiration. Therefore you can recognize Roman, Greek and Spanish influences in the architecture. The house even reached fame outside of Sevilla, starring in two big movies: Lawrence of Arabia and Knight & Day.

9. Take Photos in Plaza de España

Plaza de España has to be one of the top things to do in Sevilla. The iconic half-moon shaped square is decorated with the typical azulejo tiles and offers a unique experience on its own! You can take a rest on one of the 48 benches surrounding the plaza, each representing a Spanish province with an image of its famous foods or monuments. Challenge yourself and try to spot the bench with image of the famous Don Quijote de la Mancha. Or simply sit back and soak in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying the mesmerizing performances of authentic Flamenco dancers.

10. Spend an Evening in Triana

On the left bank of the Guadalquivir River, across the old city center, you will find the lively area Triana. In this quarter you won’t know where to look as there is something happening at every street corner! Being the birth place of many Sevillian traditions, painted ceramics, flamenco and bullfighting promotions are always present. Begin your cultural journey by entering the neighborhood through it’s main entrance, Isabel Bridge. Afterwards wander off in the colorful streets filled with traditional tapas bars. To fully soak up the vibrant atmosphere, make a visit to the Mercado de Triana where you will find a diversity of food stands. An experience to never forget!

11. Experience the Fería de Sevilla

Another big event to attend in Sevilla is the Feria de Abril. This 5-day festivity takes place 2 weeks after Easter and is held in the southwest area of Los Remedios. During this traditional festival you will be submerged in color, music and dance all while enjoying delicious tapas and drinks. The local women wear their best outfits, the traje de gitano (the iconic polka dot flamenco dress). You have the choice of different activities such as the market, consisting of at least 1.000 marquees, or attend a typical bullfight. However the festivities’ highlights are without a doubt the colorful fireworks on Tuesday and Sunday night. You will definitely know what to see in Sevilla during this vibrant festival!

12. Stroll Through Maria Louisa Park

After a visit to Plaza España you can wander around in the Maria Louisa Park. This park functions as the green lung of the city and has many hidden treasures. At every corner you will find something to admire, from fountains to a botanical garden or even musea located in the park. It’s the perfect location to have a stroll, picnic with your friends or seek up the shade on a hot Sevillian summer day!

13. Visit the Famous Setas – Metropol Parasol

You have already visited the main monuments and you don’t know what to see in Sevilla? Head down to the old quarter and find the 6 enormous wooden mushrooms known as Metropol Parasol or Las Setas. Unlike the traditional Andalusian architecture, this piece of art shows an original and modern design. You can even go to the viewing point El Mirador, located on the upper level, and enjoy a panoramic view of the old quarter.