29 Things To Do in Seville, Spain (And What NOT To Do!)

You’re heading to Andalucia’s fascinating capital city, and wondering what to do in Seville. With a cultural heritage formed by a dramatic history of multiple rulers – from the Romans to the Moors – the city is jam-packed with historical attractions.

From soaking in the sweet scent of orange blossoms while getting lost in the cobblestoned streets to partying like a local at one of the biggest Ferias (city fairs) in the country, there are endless things to do in Seville, Spain, that will blow your mind.

After living in Seville for a year and a half and a total of 10 years in Andalucia, I’ve explored the city in-depth – and truly know it like a local.

In this post, I’ll show you the best things to do in Seville so that you can make the best of your stay, whether you have one or three days in Seville, or you’re planning on a longer stay.

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Pictures of me looking out on the large Plaza de España in Seville and another one of me standing in a beautiful patio with bright the yellow poticos of Palacio de las Dueñas in Seville. These are some of the best things to do in Seville, Spain.

Best things to do in Seville, Spain

With so many amazing things to do in Seville, I’ve picked out the best, including the most important celebrations in Seville. Because if there’s one thing they know how to do in Seville, it’s to celebrate and party!

TOP TIP! 🙋‍♀️ Get the Seville City Pass before you go!

Visit Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is, together with the Alcazar, a UNESCO World Heritage site and possibly the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

Visiting the cathedral is a must-do in Seville, even if you’re only on a day trip to Andalucia’s capital city. Among the treasures inside, you must visit Christopher Columbus’ tomb, which is situated inside the church.

Historically, Christopher Columbus was buried in the New World, but when the Spanish lost power, they brought his remains back to Spain.

Many cities claim to have his remains, but recent DNA tests prove that he rests in Seville Cathedral. You’ll see his tomb as soon as you enter the cathedral, held by the statues of four men.

The splendor of the cathedral continues as you walk out to the orange garden and through the Puerta del Perdon (Gate of Forgiveness) – an exquisite example of a stucco-engraved horseshoe-shaped gate dating back to the Moors. This is one of my favorite details in the cathedral!

The best way to see the cathedral and skip the ticket queues is to book Seville Cathedral tickets in advance or even get a combined ticket with a guided tour of the cathedral, Alcazar, and the Giralda.

👉Get your cathedral and Giralda tickets here
👉Get your joint Alcazar, cathedral, and Giralda guided tour here

A large green door surrounded by an arch and beautiful decorations in the mesmerizing Seville Cathedral facade on a bright and sunny day.

Be mesmerized by the Real Alcazar

Exploring the Royal Palace of Alcazar is one of the best things to do in Seville. Together with the cathedral, its clock tower, the Giralda, and the Archivos de Indias, the Alcazar is among Seville’s World Heritage sites.

The Moors built the palace in the same spot where a Roman fortress had been in the year 913. During the next centuries, the palace was expanded several times. Seville’s Alcazar was where all the Spanish trade with the New World was managed from.

The neatly decorated gardens with fountains and orange trees are absolutely mesmerizing, and the intricate work on the Arab arches and walls will take your breath away. I can with certainty say that I get just as amazed every time I go there!

There is no arguing that a walk through the gardens is one of the city’s most impressive things to do. Seville has truly earned its status as one of the country’s most beautiful cities with attractions like the Alcazar.

I highly recommend getting a combined ticket and guided tour to see the Alcazar, the cathedral, and the Giralda to skip the lines.

👉Get your cathedral and Giralda tickets here
👉Get your joint Alcazar, cathedral, and Giralda guided tour here

Me, wearing a black, wide-brimmed hat, looking at the Real Alcazar garden in Seville from one of the balconies. The garden is green and lush, surrounded by yellow and white buildings, and stone porticos, and visiting is one of the best things to do in Seville.

Climb the Giralda

One of the most prominent landmarks in Seville is, without a doubt, the Giralda tower. Originally, the cathedral’s stunning clock tower was built by the Moors as part of the mosque that once stood there.

When the Catholics took over Andalucia, they added the Renaissance-style bell tower, but the original ramps are still there. They were constructed instead of stairs, so that the sultan could ride his horse to the top to enjoy the sweeping views of Seville.

Today, one of the top things to do in Seville is to climb the 35 ramps followed by 17 steps to the top of the clock tower for the panoramic views of one of the most beautiful cities in Andalucia.

Climbing the Giralda is included in the tickets for the cathedral, and the tower is accessed from inside the cathedral.

I highly recommend getting a combined guided tour of the cathedral, Giralda, and Alcazar. This way, you learn a lot about the history of these historic places, while you don’t have to worry about long ticket queues.

👉Get your cathedral and Giralda tickets here
👉Get your joint Alcazar, cathedral, and Giralda guided tour here

An intricate arch with Moorish features and the beautiful clock tower of La Giralda behind it. Climbing La Giralda is one of the best things to do in Seville to see city views.

Take flamenco classes

If you’re staying a while in the city, one of the really fun things to do in Seville is to take flamenco classes. There is a multitude of high-quality flamenco schools in the city, especially in the neighborhood of Triana.

But even if you don’t have a lot of time in Seville, you can do this one-off dancing class. We once did that for a hen party in Seville, and it was super fun!

👉Book your one-hour Flamenco dance lesson here

CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO OF WHAT TO DO IN SEVILLE ON YOUTUBE

Go for a stroll in Seville’s biggest park

Seville’s green lung, the Maria Luisa Park, is one of the best places to go for a quiet stroll, getting away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy city.

Here, you’ll meet families walking their dogs while kids play in the grass, elderly people sitting on a bench soaking in the greenery, and couples cozying up on a blanket on the grass.

The Maria Luisa Park has several fountains and ancient Moorish remains dotted throughout the green space, which makes it a truly wonderful place to walk around.

Why not get a cold bottle of the local Cruzcampo beer, lay a blanket on the grass, and spend an hour or two people-watching?

Maria Luisa Park in Seville.

Climb the Torre del Oro

Torre del Oro is another one of Seville’s Moorish remains. The 12-sided tower was once a watchtower of the fortified walls that surrounded the city during Moorish rule.

Torre del Oro means the Tower of Gold. It’s said that the name derives from the tower being a storage place for gold transported from the New World, and not the fact that it was covered in golden tiles when it was built.

As one of the most prominent historical attractions, climbing Torre del Oro is one of the top things to do in Seville. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Guadalquivir River and the city.

On the way up to the top, you’ll walk through the naval museum, dating back to 1944. The museum showcases a vast collection of old maps, flags, diving equipment, and scale models of ships, among other things.

A river promenade lined with trees and the majestic, octangular Torre del Oro on a sunny day with a clear blue sky.

Go on a boat trip on the Guadalquivir

If you prefer the comfort of a boat over the adventure of kayaking or paddleboarding, make sure you board one of the Seville river cruises taking you down the Guadalquivir River.

You can’t be in a city with a river without exploring it from the water. The Guadalquivir has such a rich history and is an important part of Seville all the way back to when it was a walled Roman city.

👉Book your Guadalquivir boat cruise here

Me standing on the front of a boat, looking at the water on a Seville boat cruise on the Guadalquivir River during sunset. If you're looking for what to do in Seville in the evening, this is the perfect thing to do at sunset.

Let yourself get lost in Barrio de Santa Cruz

Once a local neighborhood in the center of Seville, right behind the cathedral, the old Jewish quarter, known as Barrio de Santa Cruz, quickly gained popularity among tourists for its charming streets and enchanting bars and restaurants.

Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist areas in Seville. So, is it really worth going? If you ask me, absolutely yes!

The first time I wandered the streets of Santa Cruz, it was surely a different experience. Yet, I find it super charming even though the coolest places I used to hang out aren’t there anymore.

Santa Cruz is always full of life, and the narrow streets and historical buildings hide vibrant flamenco bars and tapas bars waiting for you to enter. This is also one of the best areas to stay in Seville, especially if it’s your first time.

👉Book a guided walking tour of Barrio de Santa Cruz here

Mohammed walking through an empty, colorful street in Barrio de Santa Cruz in Seville. This is the old Jewish Quarter of Seville and walking through the narrow maze-like streets is one of the must-do's in Seville.

See a Flamenco show

When in Seville, Spain, things to do must include a flamenco show. There are several great places to see flamenco shows, but one of the most popular is Casa de la Memoria.

It’s located in the Cultural Flamenco Center of Seville, which was established in 1999 and is now set in a 15th-century historical building.

The shows are popular among tourists and locals alike, and you’ll get an intimate experience close up with the artists as the venue is quite small. Those are truly the best places to experience flamenco, in my opinion.

Another option, which I experienced recently for the first time, is heading to the Teatro Flamenco. This is a more theater performance-like Flamenco show, which was also an interesting experience.

I do recommend booking tickets in the front, though, as the theater is fairly big and the back rows are far from the scene.

We were seated in the far back row, and I honestly think that was a bit of a bummer, because the show was really good and I’d love to see it from close up.

👉Book a spot for a show at Casa de la Memoria here
👉Book a spot for a show at Teatro Flamenco here

An elegant Flamenco dancer in a wite dress performing at Teatro Flamenco Sevilla. Behind her are several men and women seated on chairs singing, clapping and playning the guitar to accompany the dance.

Visit Casa de Pilatos

Casa de Pilatos is a fantastic, and so underrated, palace in Seville, combining Italian Renaissance design and Andalusian Mudéjar architecture.

Built in the 16th century by the Dukes of Medinaceli, the palace became an important noble residence and reflects influences from Spain and Italy.

The visit takes you through tiled courtyards, gardens, and decorated halls filled with sculptures, arches, and historic artwork.

My favorite part of it is the main patio, but also the staircase is beautiful, and throughout the different rooms, there are beautifully detailed ceilings and ceramic work.

👉Book your entry tickets here
👉Book a guided tour of Casa de Pilatos here

Me, a light-colored shirt and jeans, walking by a beautiful stone fountain in a perfectly groomed, green garden in Casa de Pilatos in Seville Spain. In the background is a yellow and white house with tall arches over two floors.

Have fun at Isla Magica

If you’re wondering what to do in Seville with the kids on a hot spring or autumn day, Isla Magica is the answer! I don’t say summer, because in summer you shouldn’t be in Seville at all.

It simply gets too hot!

You should rather be in a coastal city like Cadiz or Malaga, or enjoy one of the smaller towns near Seville with a beach like Conil de la Frontera or Caños de Meca.

Isla Magica offers numerous rides that include water activities to keep you cool on hot days. On top of that, there are heaps of fun rides for all ages to enjoy.

If you’re up for a diverse, action-filled day, this is the place to be! And trust me, when it’s not only kids who will have fun there. Or maybe it’s only me who’s a big child?

👉Book your Isla Magica tickets here

Snap photos at Plaza de España

Plaza de España is no doubt one of the most picturesque places in Seville, and it’s always been my favorite place in the city.

I love walking around the half-circle-shaped structure and admire the tiled benches – each one marked with one of the 50 Spanish provinces. They make for the perfect photo motives.

But Plaza de España also hosts a lot of free flamenco shows, which is super cool if you only have one day in Seville and don’t have time to experience an actual evening show.

They also rent out small row boats for the little half-circle lagoon, but I haven’t tried them yet, as I think it looks a bit overrated (and I’ve seen too many tourists that seem like they’ve never rowed before crashing around with no control lol).

In comparison to other top attractions in Seville, Plaza de España is a fairly newish building, only dating back to 1928. It was built as a place to display Spain’s technology and industry exhibits. The plaza was also used as a filming location for Star Wars in the year 2000.

Believe me when I say that this is one of the absolute best free things to do in Seville!

Me, with a black, wide-brimmed hat on a balcony in Plaza de España in Seville, Spain, looking at the square on a sunny day. Visiting Plaza de España is one of my favorite free things to do in Seville.

Snap a picture at Plaza de Cabildo

Plaza del Cabildo is a small semicircular square located near Seville Cathedral. The plaza was redesigned in the 20th century by architect Joaquín Barquín with arches, marble columns, and painted frescoes that reflect traditional Andalusian style.

While it’s a hidden square, it’s become more touristy over the years, as travelers find their way to it. I still love it, and think it’s well worth snapping a few pictures there!

Me standing by a large pole in Plaza de Cabildo in Seville Spain. The ground is chess-shaped and there are flower-paintings on the white, oval-shaped walls.

Discover the ruins of Italica

One of the best day trips from Seville is a trip to the well-preserved ruins of Italica. Built in the year 206 BC, the ancient city of Italica developed to become one of the most modern cities of the Roman Empire.

Italica was the birthplace of a number of senators as well as the emperors Trajan and Adriano. It was first when the Moors took over Andalucia that the city was left.

A visit there gives you an amazing insight into the history of the ancient city, and the remains are incredible. Especially the well-preserved mosaics are impressive.

For Game of Thrones fans, the site is a must. The 8th season of GOT was filmed in Italica!

The ruins of Italica are only 9 kilometers outside Seville and can easily be reached by bus from Santa Justa. It only takes 20 minutes.

Unless you drive, I highly recommend exploring Italica on this guided tour with transport from Seville. With a local guide, you’ll learn everything about the ruined city (which is a lot of history!), and any questions will be answered.

👉Book your guided tour from Seville here

activities in Seville - Italica

Eat at Triana Food Market

Triana Food Market is surprisingly enough one of the most popular in Seville, despite first being opened at its current location in 2001.

Located at the Triana side of Puente de Triana, this is a stunningly beautiful food market decorated with traditional Andalusian tiles, where you can find fresh, local food.

Foodie or not, a visit to the Triana Food Market is one of the best things to do in Seville. While the city isn’t exactly the best for vegetarian and especially vegan food, there are a few options.

👉Book a Triana Market tour here

People eating tapas and drinking at tables in Triana Market in Seville Spain. Some stalls are closed, but the ones that are open are busy and decorated with Andalusian tiles.

Step inside the Collegiate Church of the Divine Savior

The Collegiate Church of the Divine Savior is one of Seville’s most important Baroque churches, and most people overlook it, even though it’s included in the Seville Cathedral ticket.

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, it stands on the site of a former mosque, and some Islamic architectural elements remain visible today.

The church became a major religious center after Seville Cathedral and is known for its detailed altarpieces, gold decoration, and large dome.

Inside, you can explore richly decorated chapels, religious sculptures, and historic artwork created by notable Spanish artists.

I especially love the frescoed domes and intricate details of the chapels. This is truly one of the most beautiful churches in Seville.

A colorful frescoed dome in the Collegiate Church of the Divine Savior in Seville Spain, depicting multiple angels. This church is included in the seville Cathedral ticket and is one of the most beautiful things to see in Seville.

Go for drinks in Alfalfa or La Alameda

If you fancy some drinks after a long day of sightseeing, the best areas to go for drinks are either Alfalfa or La Alameda. Don’t worry about taking your drinks out in the streets and joining the crowds on the Plazas.

The locals in Seville love to party, and they’re loud – as you’ll notice, it’s quite normal in Andalucia. Give in and enjoy!

Another typical way of having drinks in Seville, especially among the younger crowds, is the so-called Bottellón. In certain places, you’ll see large gatherings of people drinking and chatting on the street.

Instead of buying drinks in the bars, youngsters get together and buy beer and spirits, plastic glasses, and ice cubes, and mix their drinks on the street. Back in my studying days, I loved it! Nowadays, I prefer a Cruzcampo at a bar.

Alfalfa Bar in Seville.

Join Spain’s most famous Easter celebrations

Holy Week is celebrated big throughout Spain, and the most famous of them all takes place in Seville. I guess I don’t have to convince you, this is one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Seville.

While we in other parts of the Western world associate Easter with the Easter bunny and colorful Easter eggs, in Spain, it’s quite different.

Holy Week is a highly religious event with large processions, Cofradías. “Nazarenos”, people dressed in long robes and pointy hats, only showing their eyes, march with large candles, incense, or carrying crosses, together with massive, man-carried floats with sacred figures, and bands playing ferociously depressing music.

The people carrying the floats (you won’t see them, they’re hidden under the floats) train for a year in advance to do this task.

Depressive music fills the streets as the processions go by. There are multiple processions, even at night. The street gets crowded with spectators, and especially the kids are excited as they’ve brought a ball of foil that the Nazarenos drip candle wax from their candles onto as they walk past.

It’s all about getting the biggest ball of candle wax!

I love Seville during Semana Santa. The whole city changes. On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing sightseeing in Seville, Holy Week is not the best time to go.

The parades block the streets all over the center, and the crowds are intense. I’m not joking when I say a normally 30-second walk could take you 20 minutes!

That said, if you want to dive into a traditional experience, this is truly worth it!

Nazarenos dressed in black with pointy hats in Seville during a Semana Santa parade. This is one of the most unique things to experience in Seville, as one of the biggest easter celebrations in the country.

Party like a local at the Feria de Abril

The April Fair, Feria de Abril, is one of the most unique fairs in Spain and takes place every year exactly 2 weeks after Easter.

There is a dedicated area where more than 1000 party tents – mostly privately owned – offer live music, usually Sevillanas, and serve food and drinks. The Rebujito, a sherry drink, is the most widely drunk liquid at the feria and has to be tasted.

On the opening day, the lighting of the fair’s portal, which is unique each year and lit by thousands of lights, takes place.

This is the kick-start of a week-long party where flamenco dresses sway through the streets, horses are ridden throughout the days, and long nights of music and people dancing the Sevillanas fill the fair area.

Next to the party tents, in Calle del Infierno, there is a fairground with multiple rides, games, and food stalls that kids and adults alike enjoy.

However, there’s one perk with the Sevilla April Fair. As I mentioned above, most of the party tents (casetas) are privately owned and invite-only.

This means you need to know someone in Seville who has tickets that can get you in. Most locals either have a caseta, work in a company that has a caseta, or have friends that have a caseta. I’ve been lucky enough to know people who have invited me every time I’ve been.

That said, if you don’t know anyone who can get you into the privately-owned party tents, don’t worry.

There are a few public ones too, and they offer a whole lot of fun, live bands, and high vibes. And most importantly, lots of Rebujito! I’ve partied in these too every year, and it’s lots of fun!

Tip! Try to catch the Ferris wheel at midnight on the last day of the fair to see the fireworks from the air.

Best things to do in Seville at night - party at the Feria de Abril

Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from the Setas de Sevilla

The most hated building among locals has turned into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seville.

The Metropol Parasol is one of the city’s newest attractions and was first built in 2011. Most locals argue that the weird, modern architecture doesn’t fit into the rest of Seville, which is such a beautiful, historical city.

As a long-time local, I actually agree. I mean, I’ve been calling Seville home (and my second home) since 2003.

It took many years before I actually visited. I learned that the Setas de Sevilla is the biggest wooden structure in the world, which is pretty cool, but more surprisingly, I realized that the views from there are the best in the city!

The visit also includes a hort sensory video which combines drone shots, scents, music, and wind to truly feel the culture of Seville.

👉Book entry tickets here

Me, in a light shirt, looking at the views from Setas de Sevilla, the newest tourist attraction in Seville. The views are beautiful of the city, including Seville Cathedral towering above the city's skyline.

Go on a tapas tour

If any place in Spain is famous for its tapas, it’s Seville. Thus, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that going on a tapas tour is one of the best activities in Seville, especially for foodies.

There aren’t that many options for vegetarians and vegans, unfortunately, yet I often get surprised when asking for veg options. The more remote you go, the fewer options you usually find.

That said, some naturally vegan tapas are pisto (veggies in tomato sauce,) tomate aliñado (fresh tomato and garlic with olive oil and salt,) salmorejo (cold tomato soup,) gazpacho (cold tomato soup,) and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas.)

You can also get stir-fried mushrooms with garlic, fried asparagus, or other vegetables in some places – just make sure you tell them not to adorn the plate with ham (jamón) etc.

You might also find a paella de verduras (vegetable paella) that’s naturally vegan, though it’s not a tapas portion, it’s a great option if you’re hungry.

👉Book your tapas tour here

Vegan mushroom tapas on a small plate next to two non-alcoholic Estrella Galicia beers on a bar bench in a tapas bar in Seville, Spain. Going on a tapas crawl is one of the must-do's in Seville.

Visit Las Dueñas Palace

Palacio de las Dueñas is a beautiful 15th-century ducal palace, which is still inhabited to this day. It first opened its doors to the public in 2016, and I’m so glad they did!

It’s a refreshing place to explore after spending time in the busier tourist attractions in Seville. There are fewer people, and you can really take in the magnificent architecture, which is a delightful mix of Moorish, Renaissance, and Gothic styles with exquisite gardens.

I just recently visited, and can’t recommend it enough! This guided tour is fantastic and provides so much information about the palace.

👉Book your guided tour here

One of the courtyards in Palacio de las Dueñas Seville.

Eat 12 grapes for good luck at NYE

If you happen to spend New Year’s Eve in Seville (I highly recommend it!), you have to get hold of 12 grapes for the countdown.

The city squares are jam-packed with people celebrating, but compared to other countries where people hold their glasses high during the countdown, the Spanish are busy chewing grapes.

For the 12 seconds to midnight, it’s all about eating one grape a second for good luck in the new year. Once the grapes are swallowed, cheers, kisses, and hugs are exchanged.

Explore the Guadalquivir River by paddleboard or kayak

I love taking a kayak or paddleboard down the Guadalquivir River. As an option to boat rides, this gives you a close-up meeting with what has been the most important transportation source in Seville for centuries.

Organized kayak and paddleboard tours will take you past the pastel-colored houses of Calle Betis and under the historical Puente de Triana bridge. This is a great way to get some exercise on your trip to Seville.

👉Book your kayak tour here

Best things to do in Seville

See the Three Wise Men for Reyes

Reyes is the most important Christmas celebration in Spain and happens on the 6th of January when the Three Wise Men came with gifts to the baby Jesus.

From the 5th of January, you can witness big parades going through the city. The Three Wise Men sit on massive floats, throwing candy at the spectators. This is a major highlight in any kid’s Christmas in Seville.

Presents are exchanged on the 6th of January. And although more and more families are taking to giving gifts, mostly to the kids, on Christmas Day too, this is the traditional day for giving gifts in Spain.

For a traditional treat, try a Roscón de Reyes with your coffee. This round-shaped cake is filled with cream and decorated with candied fruit in different colors. Inside, there’s a tiny figure of a king. Who gets the king has good luck for the rest of the year.

Reyes - Best things to do in Seville Spain

Stroll along the Guadalquivir River

The Guadalquivir River has been the livelihood of Seville all the way back to the 2nd century BC, when the Romans turned it into an important riverport. The river starts all the way over in Cazorla Natural Park and is the only navigable river in Spain.

Even today, it’s a rejuvenating part of Seville with beautiful paths along the waterfront where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll in the sun.

Start your walk by the Torre del Oro and walk down past the Roman bridge, Puente de Triana, which takes you over to the Triana Food Market. The riverfront is popular for locals to go for a walk or a cycle.

What to do in Seville Spain - walk along the river

Have a drink at Calle Betis at sunset

One of the best places for a drink with sunset views is Calle Betis along the Guadalquivir River. There are multiple bars lined up where you can say with certainty you’ll be treated to one of the best views for sunset in Seville.

Get a first-row seat in front of the river and watch the sun slide down behind the city, coloring the Torre del Oro even more golden.

Enjoy the sky turning into a pastel color painting reflecting in the river as the surroundings get darker and the city lights up in a million lights.

People eating and drinking in busy bars in Calle Betis along the Guadalquivir River in Seville Spain. The sky is blue, dotted bith white clouds, and the views of the other side of the river include the Torre del Oro.

Take a guided tour of the Archivos de Indias

The Archivos de Indias is one of the most underrated sites in Seville, yet it’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, together with the cathedral and the Real Alcazar.

It’s located right across the cathedral’s entrance, and I have to admit, I just recently visited it for the first time. And I still can’t believe I haven’t been before!

The Archivos de Indias was established in 1785 by King Charles III to organize documents related to Spain’s American colonies.

The Renaissance-style building was originally a merchants’ exchange house and now stores millions of historical records, including maps, letters, and exploration documents connected to the Spanish Empire.

During your visit, you can explore large halls, stone staircases, and rotating exhibitions that highlight maritime trade and colonial history.

Besides, I dare to say that you’ll get the best views of Seville Cathedral from the windows!

I highly recommend taking this guided tour to get the most out of your visit. There’s just so much to know about this fairly unknown attraction in Seville.

👉Book a guided tour here

Archivos de Indias Seville UNESCO site.

Experience a show at Lope de Vega Theater

Lope de Vega Theater is one of the most important in the country. Beautifully situated in Maria Louisa Park, the 1929 Neo-Baroque building will make you turn your head as you pass.

But also the inside is spectacular with more than 1000 seats, and it’s well worth going on a show. You can see anything from theater shows to flamenco, opera, and jazz in the Lope de Vega Theater, so pick out your favorite and check what’s coming up during your visit.

If you’re looking for things to do in Seville at night with a touch of culture, this is one of the least touristy things you can experience.

Check what’s coming up here.

Note! It’s closed for renovation in 2022 (last updated May 2026).

A sign saying "Abierto", which means "open" in Spanish pointing towards the white and yellow-domed building of the Lope de Vega Theater. Going on a show is one of Seville's must-do experiences.

What NOT to do in Seville as a responsible traveler

Before rounding off, I want to get into what not to do in Seville. There are a few unethical tourist activities and attractions that I’m sure you want to avoid when you’re aware of the harm they do.

Avoid visiting the bullring

Unfortunately, the city is a historical hub for bullfights, and the Maestranza bullfighting ring is one of the top tourist attractions in Seville.

If you care about ethical animal tourism at all, you’ll avoid going to see the bullring even just for a tourist visit. Unfortunately, supporting the bullring with tourist tickets to see the ring outside of the actual shows pours millions of Euros into the bullfighting business, and with this extra money, more and more bulls suffer a horrible death.

The round, white and yellow building housing Seville's bullring. Tourists are waiting outside to see the inside, not knowing that this is one of the most unethical things to do in Seville, as the money go to more bullfights.

Don’t take a horse-drawn carriage ride

Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Seville is not romantic, nostalgic, or cute. These horses shouldn’t be forced to stand in the scorching heat day in and day out, waiting for the next group of tourists to drag around.

The city is stressful for the horses; the cobbled streets are hard on their feet, and they don’t get an option to relax when they’re tired. Other destinations in Andalucia, like Malaga, have understood this and banned horse-drawn carriage rides altogether. Hopefully, Seville will follow too!

A close-up of a dark brown horse standing infront of a brown and yellow carriage waiting for tourists to board. This is one of the most unethical tourist attractions in Seville to avoid.

Don’t take your kids to Seville aquarium

Seville’s aquarium opened a few years ago as a new tourist attraction. I think it’s super sad to see how many families choose to take their kids to see confined animals that are not able to live in their natural habitat.

The aquarium in Seville has over 400 different species, among them shark species that are highly migratory and naturally will travel up to 1000 kilometers annually.

By now, we should all know how this impacts the animal’s psychological state and also how they can get sick of not hunting and eating natural food.

Reflections on what to do in Seville

There are so many amazing things to do in Seville to experience both culture and history. This is truly one of those touristy cities where you don’t feel much impact of tourism on the locals.

The people of Seville are very proud of their city and their customs, and it will be hard to change that. Still, I highly encourage you to practice responsible tourism and respect the culture and people to do your part in keeping Seville such a confounding travel destination.

While bullfighting still is a popular activity in Seville, and unfortunately, a big part of the city’s bars are bullfighting bars with bullheads decorating the walls, I highly encourage you to avoid visiting the bullring.

Even though you visit outside fights, the money will go to support this unethical activity.

Happy travels!

FAQ – things to do in Seville

Is Seville safe?

Seville is a fairly safe city compared to other bigger cities in Spain like Barcelona. There are usually people in the streets at all times, but I would avoid dark alleys and empty parks at night. Pickpockets and bag snatching happen in busy areas so hold on to your belongings – something which you should do always.

What is Seville Spain most famous for?

Seville is most famous for its vibrant tapas scene, flamenco performances, and incredible Moorish architecture.

How many days in Seville is enough?

Seville has a whole lot of layers that can take weeks or months to uncover. However, anything between 3 days and 1 week will give you a good feel of the city and the chance to cover its main attractions.

Is Seville a walkable city?

Yes, Seville is a perfectly walkable city with beautiful buildings and lush parks.

A pivture of the Plaza de España in Seville with an overlay of text saying "Best things to to in Seville"