Seville walking tour & city guide

Cathedral, Giralda and Alcázar

Seville Cathedral is the largest gothic cathedral in the world and holds the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Its bell tower, the Giralda, began as the minaret of a 12th-century mosque; climb its ramps for a view over the whole city.

Across the square, the Real Alcázar is a royal palace still used by the Spanish royal family, famous for its intricate Mudéjar architecture, tiled courtyards and gardens. Fans may recognize it as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Santa Cruz, Plaza de España and Triana

The Santa Cruz quarter, the old Jewish district, is a maze of narrow lanes, whitewashed houses and tiny squares shaded by orange trees. To the south, the Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, is a vast semicircle of brick and painted tiles with a canal for rowing boats, set in María Luisa Park.

Across the Guadalquivir river lies Triana, the traditional home of flamenco and ceramics. Its riverside street, Calle Betis, is lined with bars, and the Triana Market sits on the ruins of a medieval castle. Back in the center, the giant wooden structure of Las Setas offers a rooftop walkway with city views.

When to visit

Seville is one of the hottest cities in Europe in summer, often well above 40°C in July and August. Spring is magical, with orange blossom scenting the air, Holy Week processions and the April Fair, while autumn and winter are mild and pleasant for walking.