Things to Visit in Seville: Flamenco, Tapas, and Palaces

A UNESCO World Heritage Site still used by the Spanish royal family. The Mudéjar architecture (Islamic-influenced Christian design) is breathtaking; the gardens are equally impressive. Book timed-entry tickets online at least a week ahead. The upper royal apartments cost 4.50 EUR extra and are worth it for the privacy and ceramics.

The largest Gothic cathedral in the world holds Christopher Columbus's tomb. The Giralda bell tower was originally a mosque minaret and has ramps instead of stairs (designed for horses). The views from the top cover the entire city. Combined ticket with the Alcazar is the best value.

Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, this semicircular plaza has tiled alcoves representing every Spanish province. The canal and bridges are free to walk. Go early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light for photos. Free entry.

The world's largest wooden structure looks like giant mushrooms in the old town. The rooftop walkway (3 EUR) has sunset views across Seville. The basement has Roman archaeological ruins. Go at golden hour for the best experience.

The bridge connects the city center to the Triana district across the Guadalquivir River. Triana is the historic home of Seville's flamenco, ceramics, and bullfighting traditions. The river walk on both sides is best at sunset.

The former Jewish quarter next to the Alcazar is a maze of narrow streets, flower-draped balconies, and hidden plazas. Plaza de los Venerables and Plaza de Santa Cruz are particularly beautiful. Streets are intentionally confusing (designed to slow invaders); embrace getting lost.

A working-class neighborhood with a distinct identity from central Seville. The Triana Market (Mercado de Triana) sits above the ruins of the Inquisition castle. Calle Betis along the river has restaurants with views of the city skyline. The ceramics shops here sell tiles made in Triana for centuries.

Seville's largest park stretches south from the Plaza de Espana. Tiled benches, fountains, and shaded paths make it the best escape from the heat. The park is home to the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, both worth a quick visit.

Seville's oldest public garden, now the center of the city's alternative and nightlife scene. Terraces fill up from early evening onward. The Sunday flea market brings out vintage finds and local crafts. More local and less polished than the tourist center.

Named after the Basilica de la Macarena (home of the famous weeping Virgin statue), this residential area has long stretches of the original city walls. The Andalusian Parliament building (Hospital de las Cinco Llagas) is a stunning Renaissance structure. Fewer tourists than Santa Cruz.

Seville is the birthplace of flamenco. Small tablaos (intimate venues) deliver a more authentic experience than large theaters. Shows typically last 60-90 minutes. Book 1-2 days ahead for popular venues. Expect to pay 20-35 EUR per person, sometimes including a drink.

Founded by a famous dancer, this museum covers the history, styles, and regional variations of flamenco. Evening performances in the museum's courtyard are among the most atmospheric in the city. Combines well with a visit to the Santa Cruz quarter next door.

A 15th-century palace blending Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Often called the best example of an Andalusian palace after the Alcazar. The ground floor (8 EUR) is the most impressive; the upper floor (12 EUR combined) adds furniture and paintings. Far fewer visitors than the Alcazar.

This UNESCO World Heritage building between the Cathedral and Alcazar holds the original documents from Spain's colonization of the Americas, including letters by Columbus and Magellan. Free entry. The building's Renaissance architecture is worth a look even if you skip the exhibits.

Seville is one of the last Spanish cities where bars still serve free tapas with every drink order. Order a cana (small beer, 1.50-2.50 EUR) and receive a tapa. Move from bar to bar, each serving different specialties. The area around Calle Feria and Alameda has the most authentic spots.

Both are cold tomato soups, but salmorejo (Cordoba's version) is thicker and richer, topped with hard-boiled egg and ham. Gazpacho is lighter and often served as a drink. In Seville's summer heat (40C+), these are not just starters; they are survival food.

A covered market with fresh produce, seafood, and tapas bars built over Inquisition-era ruins (visible through glass floors). Smaller and more local than the Mercado de la Encarnacion. Open mornings and lunchtimes; closed Sundays.

Seville's unofficial signature dish. A humble, cheap stew flavored with cumin and paprika, served in nearly every traditional bar. Costs 3-5 EUR as a tapa. Best in cooler months but available year-round.

A paper cone of small fish (anchovies, baby squid, shrimp) lightly battered and fried. Seville's tapa bars and cervecerías do this exceptionally well. Pair with a cold fino sherry or Cruzcampo beer.

Rebujito (fino sherry with lemon soda) is Seville's summer drink, especially during Feria de Abril. Tinto de verano (red wine with lemon soda) is the everyday alternative. Both are refreshing, cheap (2-4 EUR), and lower alcohol than they taste.

Lunch is 2-4 PM, dinner is 9-11 PM. Shops close for siesta (2-5 PM). In summer, schedule outdoor sightseeing for mornings (before 11 AM) and evenings (after 7 PM). Midday temperatures in July and August regularly exceed 40C (104F).

Both sell out, especially in spring (March-May) and fall (September-October). Combined tickets save money. The Alcazar opens free Monday evenings (last hour before closing) but lines are long.

Holy Week (Semana Santa, March/April) features dramatic religious processions through the streets day and night. Feria de Abril (two weeks after Easter) is a week-long fair with flamenco dresses, horses, and casetas (tent bars). Both are extraordinary but accommodation sells out months ahead and prices surge.

The city center is walkable (30 minutes across) but the metro and tram connect to the train station, bus station, and outer neighborhoods. A single ride is 1.40 EUR with a rechargeable card. Walking is the best way to discover the narrow streets.