Why travel to Seville?
Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, is one of Spain´s most charismatic cities, a place where Roman, Moorish, and Christian legacies intertwine in the warm air scented with orange blossom. Located on the banks of the River Guadalquivir, Seville is famous for its magnificent architecture, passionate flamenco traditions, and above all, its rich culinary scene. Whether you are drawn to its iconic landmarks or its atmospheric tapas bars, Seville invites you to slow down, take in the rhythm of Andalusian life, and savour every bite along the way.
Where History Lives: Exploring the Soul of Seville
Start your journey in Seville´s Casco Antiguo (Old Quarter), the historic centre located along the east bank of the Guadalquivir. Here you will find three of the city´s greatest treasures: the Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and the Alcazar Palace.
The Cathedral of Seville, dating from 1402, is the largest Gothic church in the world and is built on the site of a mosque. Its Moorish legacy remains in the Patio de los Naranjos and the Giralda Tower, originally a minaret turned bell tower. Climb to the top of the Giralda for amazing views of the city´s rooftops. Inside the cathedral lies the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
Just steps away, the Royal Alcazar enchants with its ceramic-tiled halls, domed rooms, and peaceful gardens. Once home to Moorish and Christian rulers, it remains one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in Spain.
Walk east into the romantic Barrio de Santa Cruz, Seshoville´s old Jewish Quarter, a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, hidden patios, and orange trees. Don´t forget to visit Casa de Pilatos, a 16th-century mansion blending Andalusian, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
Across the river in Triana, you´ll find a more authentic side of Seville, once home to potters, sailors, and flamenco artists. Visit the Centro Cerámica Triana and explore this cradle of flamenco heritage. Further along the riverbank, you will see the Torre del Oro, a 13th-century tower that once guarded the port.
You can not miss the majestic Plaza de España, a semicircular palace lined with tiled alcoves representing each province of Spain. This striking space opens onto the Parque de María Luisa, where you can enjoy a nice walk passing by beautiful fountains, pavilions, and palms.
Visit other iconic landmarks like the Carthusian Monastery of Santa María de las Cuevas, once a retreat for monks and later a ceramics factory, now hosting contemporary art exhibitions.
Other events that showcase Seville´s traditions are Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (April Fair) with religious processions, horses, traditional attire, and nonstop music and dancing.
Gastronomic Scene of Seville
Seville is a city made for tapas. From buzzing bars in Triana to elegant spots near the cathedral, the food culture here is informal, social, and delicious. Jamón ibérico, grilled prawns, salmorejo (a thicker take on gazpacho), and carne mechada (slow-cooked pork) are local favourites.
Pair your tapas with a glass of fino or manzanilla sherry, or try the less known orange wine (vino de naranja), macerated with Seville´s famous bitter oranges. For something sweet, try torrijas (a Spanish take on French toast) or the Moorish-inspired almond pastries still made by convents today.
The Mercado de Triana and Mercado de la Encarnación are great places to taste regional produce, from olives and cheeses to local wines and artisan breads. Sit at a counter, strike up a conversation, and let the Andalusian warmth fill your plate.
Our food experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours with food, wine, and walking holidays in Seville. You can check our full list of things to do in Seville: top food tours to Seville and top boutique hotels in the sections of the travel guide to Seville.
Population: 698,163 inhabitants (2025)