10 Seville attractions you don’t want to miss

Seville is a spellbinding destination that captivates visitors with beautiful Moorish landmarks, gloriously fresh food, and historic streets packed with fascinating hidden gems. Wander around the Royal Alcázar or take in panoramic views of the city from the Torre del Oro. Admire classic and modern works of art in one of Seville’s spectacular museums, or in the Gothic Seville Cathedral. Discover the magic of Andalusia, from fast-paced flamenco to royal residences and fine art, in this guide to the best places to visit in Seville.

Best places to visit in Seville for history

1. Royal Alcázar

Stroll through elaborate gardens and admire gorgeous geometric decorations at the Royal Alcázar. Once a Moorish fortress, today the palace is one of the most riveting landmarks in Seville. The upper floors are still a royal residence where the Spanish king and his family stay when visiting the city.

Highlights: Don’t miss the Patio de Las Doncellas, an intricately designed courtyard that features a reflecting pool and sunken gardens — it’s no wonder the palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Address and opening hours: Patio de Banderas, 41004 Seville. Open daily 9:30 AM-5:00 PM.

2. Oro Tower

Climb to the top of the Torre del Oro, one of the last remaining pieces of Seville’s Moorish fortifications, for sweeping views of the city’s skyline. The name means Golden Tower, and it’s easy to see why at sunset. Visit the tower at dusk to see the reflections of the sun’s rays on the river.

Insider tip: Check out the Maritime Museum inside the tower, one of the best museums in Seville, to gain insight into the city’s significant naval history.

Address and opening hours: Paseo de Cristóbal Colón, 41001 Seville. Open daily, 9:30 AM-6:45 PM.

3. Seville Cathedral

No art or history lover should leave Andalusia without visiting the 15th-century Seville Cathedral. The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, it’s packed with amazing details like the Retablo Mayor, the main altarpiece, which stretches 60 feet wide and 66 feet high and depicts dozens of saints, biblical figures, and scenes from the life of Jesus.

Insider tip: Climb the 34 ramps of The Giralda, the bell tower attached to the Cathedral, for breathtaking views of Seville’s landmarks and monuments.

Address and opening hours: Calle Mateos Gago 4, 41004 Seville. Open every day except Sunday, 10:45 AM-5:00 PM.

Best places to visit in Seville for art

4. Setas de Sevilla

See Setas de Sevilla, an innovative piece of modern art that is both an art installation and a community hub. The name means “Seville’s mushrooms,” thanks to their wild shape. Wander around the large, wooden structure to find restaurants, a traditional Andalusian market, and a small museum.

Highlights: Head up to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the center of Seville.

Address and opening hours: Plaza de la Encarnación, 41003 Seville. Open daily, 9:30 AM-12:30 AM.

5. Pilate’s House

Andalusia is famous for its azulejo (tiles), which have traditionally been used to decorate buildings. See the most impressive collection of azulejos at the Casa de Pilatos, a palace that contains over 150 designs. There are also busts and sculptures from Ancient Rome, for extra history kudos.

Insider tip: Casa de Pilatos is a short walk from the city’s historic center, which is home to many other best attractions in Seville. Make the most of your visit and see beautiful medieval and Renaissance buildings on a walking tour.

Address and opening hours: Plaza de Pilatos 1, 41003 Seville. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

6. Museum of Fine Arts

Admire the finest collection of European art in the city at the Museum of Fine Arts, which is one of the best art museums in Seville. The second-largest gallery in Spain, with works by Goya, El Greco, and Seville’s very own Velázquez, the gallery is housed in the atmospheric surroundings of an old convent.

Highlights: Don’t miss the intricately designed domed ceiling that was painted in the 18th century by Domingo Martinez.

Address and opening hours: Plaza del Museo 9, 41001 Seville. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM, and Sundays, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Best places to visit in Seville for families

7. Museum of Illusions

Nothing is quite what it seems at the Museum of Illusions. Interact with fun exhibits that will leave you guessing as you try to figure out the science behind the illusion. This remarkable sensory experience is a great family-friendly activity and will delight all ages.

Highlights: Step into the vortex tunnel and be baffled by the upside-down room.

Address and opening hours: Calle San Eloy 28, 41001 Seville. Open daily, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

8. Isla Mágica

Isla Mágica is Seville’s theme park and one of the best places in Seville for a fun day out. Explore pirates’ caves and an exciting Amazon zone and feel like you’ve been transported into a magical universe. Thrill-seekers will love the rollercoasters, while little ones will be enchanted by the live shows.

Insider tip: In addition to the theme park, the Agua Mágica water park is next door, where you can enjoy water slides and wave pools.

Address and opening hours: Pabellón de España 41092 Seville. Open daily, 11:00 AM-11:00 PM.

Best places to visit in Seville for culture

9. Plaza de España

Plaza de España is one of Seville’s most gorgeous public squares, boasting elaborate fountains and colonnades. Look around the monument closely; you’ll find that each of its tiled nooks represents one of Spain’s 50 provinces, with tiled nameplates and maps.

Insider tip: Each nook is accompanied by a bookshelf, which is used as a free library containing works about each province.

Address and opening hours: Plaza de España, 41013 Seville. Open 24 hours a day.

10. Flamenco Dance Museum

Andalusia is the birthplace of flamenco, the passionate Spanish musical tradition. Learn about the history of this iconic dance style and see dazzling costumes at the Flamenco Dance Museum, set in the atmospheric surroundings of an old bullring.

Best time to go: Seeing a flamenco show is one of the most fun and unique things to do in Seville. Every night, the museum puts on a breathtaking dance show, so time your visit with an evening performance to witness the magic of flamenco for yourself.

Address and opening hours: Calle Manuel Rojas Marcos 3, 41004 Seville. Open daily, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM.

FAQs

How many days should I spend in Seville?

Some people spend just one weekend in Seville, as it’s a fairly compact city. However, you could easily spend a week or more, especially if you want to enjoy some day trips.

What is the best time of year to visit Seville?

Seville in summer is stiflingly hot and can be crowded. The best time of year to visit Seville is in spring, when the city has its annual April Fair, and the flowers are in bloom.

How do I get around Seville?

Seville has good public transportation, including city buses and an underground metro system. Taking a sightseeing tour is a great way to see multiple landmarks and monuments without having to arrange your own transportation.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Seville?

Triana is famous as the cradle of flamenco and well worth a visit. Seville’s Old Town is where you’ll find the most famous monuments and an authentic atmosphere.

What are the best places to go shopping in Seville?

Calle Sierpes and Calle Tetuán are two of the main shopping streets, with a mix of souvenirs, artisan goods, and chain stores. For unique ceramic pieces, try the Triana Market.