We spent two weeks exploring Spain, and without a doubt, Seville was our absolute favorite.
Seville embodies the quintessential Spanish culture of vivid ceramic tiles, authentic tapas, local wines, elaborately adorned architecture and flamenco dancing.
Located in southern Spain, Seville is the most prominent city in the Andalusia region, famous for its oranges (and orange wine) and for upholding the country’s traditions of bull riding and dancing.
Here’s my guide to Seville, Spain, one of my most-loved cities in the world.
Plaza de España
I knew I was in love with Seville the moment I laid eyes on the Plaza de España, built to showcase Seville’s craftsmanship during the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929 in Maria Luisa Park. But if you’re a nerd (like my husband), you might recognize it from Star Wars. Either way, it’s one of the most beautiful places we visited in Spain.
Maria Luisa Park
Maria Luisa Park is right across from Plaza de España and provides a green oasis among Seville city life. We spent our time walking through the park and watching the monk parakeets (small green parrots) fly between the palm trees.
Royal Alcázar
Asher and I agree that the Royal Alcázar was a highlight of our time in Seville. The Royal Alcázar is the oldest palace still in use in Europe and was a filming site for Game of Thrones. The tiles are colorful, and the garden (full of peacocks) is beautiful. Plan to spend a few hours here. You can purchase your tickets online here.
I’m always looking for artwork on our trips. This time we found two beautiful paintings by Nayra García (@minioilpaintings on Instagram) outside the Royal Alcázar.
Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral, founded in 1403, is the world’s largest gothic cathedral and the third largest cathedral in the world. The architecture is stunning on both the inside and out. You can skip the line by purchasing your tickets here.
Casa de Pilatos
Casa de Pilatos was another favorite of mine in Seville. It reminded me of a much smaller Royal Alcázar without the crowds and with plenty of Spanish charm. We spent our time wandering through the gardens and admiring the mosaic tile. You can purchase your tickets online here.
Just outside Casa de Pilatos is a shop called Artesanías de Sevilla, where you can find unique, handmade pieces by Sevillan artisans. We purchased the prettiest hand painted ornament for our Christmas tree, a little piece of Spain during the most magical time of the year.
Setas de Sevilla
Setas de Sevilla provides an immersive experience into the culture and city of Seville. “Setas” translates to “mushrooms,” an accurate representation of this architectural masterpiece. The upper level provides panoramic views of the city and allows you to experience the wooden structure firsthand. We purchased our tickets in person.
Flamenco Show
The Flamenco Show was one of my favorite things we did in Spain (I keep saying that because every experience was my new favorite thing). The dancers at Teatro Flamenco Sevilla put on a wonderful show and allowed us to dive a little deeper into Spanish culture. I can’t recommend this enough. You can buy your tickets online here.
Looking for food recommendations in Spain? Check out my guide to the Balearic Island of Mallorca.
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