How to Spend a Weekend in Seville: 10 Best Things to Do
Wandering the streets of Seville, Spain in May 2022.
Only around the equivalent of a 4 hour drive to the African border, Seville the capital city of the Andalusia region. With around 700,000 people, Seville is the fourth-largest city in Spain – right behind Valencia.
Between its flamenco, Moorish architecture, and unique mix of modern and cultural traditions – Seville is a very special place, as some of Spain’s most riveting live music and out-of-this-world food come from Seville. I can confirm on the second point, as I think my favorite city in Spain food wise is definitely Seville.
Is Seville Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, Seville is worth visiting – as it’s one of the most colorful, cutest, and visually stunning cities in Spain. Out of all of the places I have been in Spain, Seville is still one of my favorites for a low-key trip to Spain for sun, tapas, and classic Spanish architecture.
Streets of Seville, Spain!
How Many Days Should I Spend in Seville?
Generally, the sweet spot for a trip to Seville is between 2 and 3 days.
Seville deserves at least 2 full days to properly explore everything that it has to offer, but it doesn’t need more than 4 days as it’s a very small city and very walkable.
What’s the Difference Between Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville?
Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville couldn’t be more different from one another – as Madrid has more big-city energy and Barcelona is a unique city nestled by the beach. Seville, in comparison to both, is quieter, colorful, and less busy than Madrid or Barcelona.
If you’re trying to decide between visiting Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, the table below will break down the differences between the different cities:
| 🌇 Madrid | 🏖️ Barcelona | 🍹 Seville | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | Over 3 million – Spain’s largest city with a big metro sprawl. | Roughly 1.6 million – second-largest and denser near the coast. | About 700,000 – smaller, more local-feeling, and traditional. |
| Weather & Location | Inland with dry, continental weather. Hot summers, chilly winters. | Coastal Mediterranean climate with beach access and breezy summers. | Further south and closer to Africa – hot and dry summers are intense. |
| City Vibe | Bustling and lively capital. Gran Vía, plazas, and endless tapas bars. | Artistic, beachy, and trendy with Catalan influence and youthful energy. | Charming, slower-paced, and more village-like despite the tourist appeal. |
| Known For | Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Gran Vía, royal palaces, and late-night eats. | Gaudí architecture, Park Güell, beaches, Las Ramblas, and Catalonia pride. | Flamenco, orange trees, Alcázar, tapas alleyways, and colorful tiles. |
| Best For | City lovers, museum-goers, foodies, first-timers to Spain. | Architecture fans, creatives, beach lovers, those who want city + coast. | Slow travelers, romantics, those chasing sunshine and tradition. |
Wondering around Seville Spain in May 2022
If you’ve been wondering what to do when you’re in Seville, whether it be for a short trip or a Spanish adventure on the longer side – I’ve got a curated list of the best things to do in Seville – whether it be a solo trip or with family and friends.
The Best Things to See and Do For a Short Trip to Seville
Go Up La Giralda
Everyone knows how I feel about going up the tallest viewing points in cities… and Seville in Spain is no exception.
You really should make time to go up Ls Giralda while in Seville. The line might be long, but let me tell you – it’s worth it.
View outside La Giralda in Seville Spain; May 2022
How Much Does a Ticket for Giralda Tower in Seville Cost?
The table below will break down the prices to go up the Giralda tower in Seville and usual opening hours to help you plan your trip accordingly:
Do I Need Tickets for Giralda Tower in Seville?
Yes, you need tickets for the Giralda Tower in Seville. Beware – customer service or a real ticket booth for this really doesn’t exist. Try and book your tickets beforehand. And Seville gets hot in the summer… so the earlier, the better – which is also best considering when I went at 3:50PM, it was crowded too.
View from Giralda Tower in Seville; May 2022
Is It Worth Going Up the Giralda Tower in Seville?
Yes, it’s very worthwhile going up the Giralda Tower in Seville – just bear in mind that it can get hot and crowded if you travel to Seville during high season. But the views are gorgeous.
View from Giralda Tower in Seville; May 2022
It doesn’t take long to get a shot from each quadrant. Totally worth the crowd. Plus – this is the first and only cathedral I’ve gone up in Europe that is handicap friendly, it’s a simple steady incline instead of your usual claustrophobic stairs!
2. Walk Seville’s Small But CUte City Center
Most of the beauty of Seville can be seen in a short distance – which is one of the reasons why I truly recommend trying to see as much of the city on foot as you can.
City Center of Seville, Spain; May 2022
Which Neighborhoods Should I Visit in Seville?
There are neighborhood like Triana and Santa Justa to walk, but the stuff near the Cathedral is the bulk of it.
The overview cards below will reveal some of the best neighborhoods in Seville to visit during your stay:
🌴🇪🇸 Best Neighborhoods to Visit in Seville 🇪🇸🌴
🌺 Santa Cruz
The most beautiful and iconic neighborhood in Seville, filled with colorful buildings, orange trees, hidden courtyards, and winding alleyways.
💃 Triana
Located across the river, Triana is known for its local atmosphere, flamenco roots, ceramic shops, and authentic Andalusian charm.
🏛️ El Arenal
Home to many of Seville's most famous attractions, including the Cathedral and Torre del Oro, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
🌴 Alameda de Hércules
A lively district filled with cafés, restaurants, nightlife, and a younger crowd. Perfect if you enjoy people-watching and local energy.
View of La Giralda Tower from the Street in Seville; May 2022
Plaza de Pilatos in Seville, Spain; May 2022
Spanish Flags in Seville!
Absolutely beautiful photo opportunities in Seville!
Triana neighborhood in Seville, Spain; May 2022
Getting lost in Seville, Spain; May 2022
I highly recommend just getting lost while in Seville – and wondering down every narrow side street you can.
3. Eat Tapas at La Bartola
I’ve visited every major city in Spain, but I have to say – Seville may take the cake for the best tapas.
The menu at La Bartola Tapas in Seville, Spain.
A trip to Spain is never complete without tapas. I love France with all of my heart as we all know – but eating out at home in Paris gets expensive sometimes.
Tapas at La Bartola in Seville, Spain in May 2022
Enjoying the cheaper prices in Spain!
Where is the Best Vegan Tapas Place in Seville?
I googled vegan tapas in Seville, and ‘La Bartola’ came up. It was fantastic. The waiter was friendly, great atmosphere, on a quiet street – with options for everyone.
I tried to eggplant, the stuffed zucchini, and the sushi. All of it was fantastic…
Vegan Sushi & Eggplant Tapas at La Bartola in Seville, Spain.
… but the sushi was the best.
4. Take a La Siesta
When I go to Spain, I like to sleep… on a bench, in the sun, or in a park…
… a lot.
View of Híspalis Fountain in Puerta de Jerez Square, Seville, Spain; May 2022
It’s really just a given. I do it in Paris, too – but it feels more fitting in Spain.
5. Plaza de España
It seems that every city in Spain has a Plaza de España!
This reminded me a lot of El Retiro park in Madrid – with the boats, guitar playing… but quitter, less peaceful, and prettier with the classic Spanish tiles.
Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain in May 2022.
History of Plaza de España in Seville
Originally built back in 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, Plaza de España was made to showcase Spain's history, culture, and architectural achievements to the world. It’s unique semi-circular design is meant to symbolize Spain's embrace of its former American territories, while the colorful tiled alcoves represent each of the country's provinces.
Today, it remains as one of Seville's most well-known landmarks, located nearby an open space park perfect for local picnics and la siestas.
Plaza de Espana in Sevilla, Spain.
6. Maria Lusia Park
Right beside Plaza de España is a beautiful, low-key local park in Seville called Maria Lusia Park.
Maria Lusia Paque in Sevilla, Spain.
Is Maria Lusia Park in Seville Worth Visiting?
I think it’s worth visiting Maria Lusia Park only if you’re already there to see Plaza de Espana, otherwise – it’s just an average park.
Maria Lusia Park beside it is like Seville’s Central Park: vast, with lots of benches or places to take your necessary la siesta.
7. Royal Alcazar Gardens
I was walking back to my hotel, and stumbled across this garden in full bloom in late May.
Royal Alcazar Gardens in Seville, Spain; May 2022
Royal Alcazar Gardens in Seville, Spain
💃🌴 Bonus Things to Do in Seville 🌴💃
💃 Flamenco Show
Even if you're not usually into performances, seeing flamenco in Seville is a memorable experience. The passion, music, and atmosphere make it one of the most uniquely Andalusian things you can do.
⛪ Seville Cathedral
One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, Seville Cathedral is worth stepping inside to admire its immense scale, ornate details, and centuries of history.
🛍️ Santa Cruz
Get lost among colorful streets, hidden courtyards, orange trees, and charming cafés. Santa Cruz is easily one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Seville.
My street view while writing and taking a la siesta in Seville, Spain.
☀️🇪🇸 Seville Travel FAQs 🇪🇸☀️
Want to see my trip to Seville in Spain in action?
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I’ve been traveling all over Spain for almost a decade, having visited almost every major city in the country – meaning I can help you plan the perfect trip to Spain.
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Last updated: June 23, 2026