Seville

Sevilla

Andalusia's vibrant capital is home to the world's largest Gothic cathedral and the stunning Real Alcazar palace complex. Its flamenco culture, orange-tree-lined streets, and lively tapas scene make it the essential introduction to southern Spain.

Things to do

• Real Alcázar — Explore this stunning Mudéjar royal palace with its intricate tilework and lush gardens still used by the Spanish royal family today.
• Seville Cathedral & Giralda — Climb the ramps of the former minaret Giralda tower for panoramic views after admiring the world's largest Gothic cathedral and Columbus's tomb.
• Plaza de España — Wander this monumental semicircular plaza with colorful tiled alcoves representing each Spanish province, set within Maria Luisa Park.
• Barrio Santa Cruz — Get lost in the narrow whitewashed lanes and orange-tree courtyards of the old Jewish quarter, now full of hidden plazas and tapas bars.
• Metropol Parasol (Las Setas) — Walk the rooftop walkway of this giant wooden waffle structure for sunset views over the old town's rooftops.
• Flamenco show in Triana — Cross the river to Triana, the traditional flamenco and ceramics neighborhood, for an authentic tablao performance.
• Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza — Tour Spain's oldest and most famous bullring, a striking baroque building overlooking the Guadalquivir River.

Food to try

• Tapas crawl — Hop between bars in Santa Cruz or Alfalfa sampling small plates like croquetas, patatas bravas, and pringá standing at the bar.
• Salmorejo — Try this thicker, creamier cousin of gazpacho, a chilled tomato-and-bread soup topped with jamón and egg.
• Espinacas con garbanzos — Sample this Moorish-influenced stew of spinach and chickpeas, a Seville tapas classic with roots in Sephardic cooking.
• Jamón ibérico and sherry — Pair thinly sliced cured ham with a glass of chilled fino or manzanilla sherry at a traditional bodega.
• Cola de toro — Taste braised oxtail stew, a rich slow-cooked specialty born from Seville's bullfighting tradition.
• Torrijas — Indulge in Seville's version of sweet fried bread soaked in milk or wine, especially popular around Easter (Semana Santa).

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace late dining — Locals rarely eat dinner before 9pm, and many tapas bars only get lively after 10pm.
• Beat the heat — Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, so plan sightseeing for early morning or evening and rest during the midday siesta hours.
• Dress modestly for the Cathedral — Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the Cathedral and Real Alcázar out of respect for these religious and historic sites.
• Book Real Alcázar tickets ahead — Reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance, as this popular palace often sells out, especially in peak season.