Seville attractions

Seville, the center of Andalusia, is the epitome of the southern Spanish way of life. The atmosphere of the city immediately captivates the visitor: narrow, cobblestone streets, flower-covered balconies, orange trees that bear fruit all year round, and the melodies of flamenco captivated me too.

It is worth booking accommodation in the center, because this way we can explore the sights on foot.

I stayed at the Hotel Boutique Casa de Colon , a two-minute walk from the cathedral, which turned out to be an optimal choice. Seville is also a good destination in winter because the temperature is pleasant, you usually don't need a jacket, just a light sweater, and there are far fewer tourists.

What to see in Seville? - Seville attractions

One of the most impressive places in the heart of the city is the Giralda , Seville's iconic bell tower, which once served as a Moorish minaret. Climbing it is a wonderful experience and offers great views of the city from the top.

Next to it stands the huge, Gothic cathedral , one of the largest churches in the world and where the tomb of Christopher Columbus can also be found.

Not far from here is the Real Alcázar, a fabulous Moorish palace that became the residence of Christian kings over the centuries. The mosaics, gardens and fountains transport the visitor to a fairy-tale world where Islamic and Christian architecture are masterfully intertwined.

The Puerta del León, or “Lion Gate,” is the main entrance to the Real Alcázar of Seville and one of the most iconic points of the entire palace complex. It takes its name from the lion above the gate, which holds a cross in its paw and has guarded the entrance to the royal court for centuries. The gate serves both decorative and protective purposes, and the moment you enter, you are reminded of the magnificent world that awaits you within the walls of the Alcázar. The meeting of Moorish and Christian architecture can already be observed here. The Puerta del León is therefore not just a simple entrance, but also one of the historical symbols of Seville.

The Hotel Alfonso XIII is definitely worth mentioning among the attractions of Seville, as it is one of the most luxurious and impressive architectural works of the city, inaugurated in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exhibition. Named after the monarch, the hotel was intended to welcome international guests, including kings, heads of state and aristocrats, in a dignified manner – and this spirit permeates the building to this day. The hotel is the essence of Sevillian style inside and out: Moorish, Renaissance and Castilian elements are combined, with ornate tiles, wrought iron details and elegant courtyards that make it truly special. The building is not only a luxury hotel, but also a historical landmark in itself, a perfect example of how the richness and traditions of Andalusian architecture can be combined with modern hospitality. The Hotel Alfonso XIII is not only worth staying at, but also worth admiring – from the outside it is one of the most photogenic and elegant buildings in the city.

The Plaza de España, in the heart of the city, is a breathtaking example of Spanish Renaissance style. The vast semicircular square is surrounded by colorful tiles representing the cities, and you can take a boat ride on the canal that runs through the middle. This place is not only the pride of Seville, but also a popular filming location.

If you want to truly experience the atmosphere of Seville, a walk through the narrow, romantic streets of Barrio Santa Cruz is a must, where you can find cafes, tapas bars and small craft shops. In the evening, you can easily catch a flamenco show.

Walking along the banks of the Guadalquivir River, it is worth visiting the Torre del Oro, a medieval watchtower known as the Golden Tower, which now serves as a museum. From here you can enjoy a fantastic panorama of the river and the city.

Seville's modern face is also impressive, best exemplified by the Metropol Parasol, or "Setas" as the locals call it. This huge wooden structure, with its bold, organic form, creates a sharp contrast to the classic atmosphere of the city's historic districts. From the walkway to the top, you can enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of Seville's rooftops, the cathedral and the Guadalquivir River. Below the Setas, restaurants, markets and exhibition spaces await visitors, so you can enjoy culture, gastronomy and the hustle and bustle of city life at the same time.

The construction of the Metropol Parasol, or Setas, began in 2005 with the aim of breathing life into a neglected part of Seville’s historic quarter. The city government wanted to create an iconic, modern work of art that would serve as a community space, a cultural center, and a tourist attraction. However, the project was not without its challenges: the building’s enormous size and unique shape required technological innovations, and construction took several years, finally opening to the public in 2011. Setas has now become a symbol of Seville, successfully combining contemporary architecture with the city’s rich history.

The Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija is a hidden gem in the Alfalfa district, located in the historic center of the city, and is best known for its impressive collection of Roman mosaics. The 16th-century palace was acquired in the early 20th century by an art lover who was passionate about collecting antiques and turned her home into a museum-like space. The floors of the palace are decorated with some of the most beautiful Roman mosaics in all of southern Spain, brought from Italica, the ancient Roman city. Visitors can also gain an insight into the life of the Sevillian aristocracy through the elegant Andalusian courtyard, Mudejar-style details, and antique furniture. This palace is a real journey through time, where art and history come together almost tangible.

Seville is a place where every stone, every street tells a story of its past, while its vibrant modern life invites visitors from all over the world. A walk here is not just a trip, but an experience that will lock the city in our hearts for a long time.