Seville is Spain’s fourth largest city. I loved the stunning streets lined with orange trees, rows and rows of tapas bars and gorgeous architecture from ancient Moorish walls, Roman ruins and Baroque churches at every turn.
Here’s my guide on what to see, where to eat and drink and where to stay in Seville.
Top things to see in Seville
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The Cathedral
Seville is home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also the third-largest cathedral in the world, and will take your breath away with its grandeur.
Its roots were actually moorish and it’s bell tower, the Giralda, was the old minaret that called Muslims in Seville to prayer five times a day.
In 1506 the construction of the Cathedral was completed a century after it was started!
Top tip for visiting the Cathedral, as it is one of Seville’s most popular sites to visit, is to buy your ticket in advance or get there super early as the queues to get in get longer and longer with lightening speed!
The Real Alcázar
Some may recognise the Real Alcázar from the Game of Thrones TV series and this stunning Unesco-listed palace complex is a real treat to see.
It started out as a fort in the 10th century for the Cordoban governors of Seville but in the 11th century it was repurposed and majorly rebuilt into a palace.
The interiors and exhibits are fascinating to see as well as the gorgeous courtyards and picturesque gardens.
The Plaza de España
This is one place not to miss! It actually took us by surprise as we had no idea what to expect. Located in the Parque de María Luisa, it was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, and is a eclectic blend of Baroque Revival, Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival styles of Spanish architecture.
Here you can find a plethora of facets such as fountains, mini-canals, Venetian-style bridges and a series of gaudy tile segments dedicated to each Spanish provence with illustrations of maps and historical scenes. You can even go for a boat ride on the canal!
The Metropol Parasol
Las Setas De Sevilla built in 2011 is one of Seville’s more modern and now very iconic landmarks. Designed as a giant sunshade by German architect Jürgen Mayer H, its the world’s largest wooden structure. The best views are from the top where you can get panoramic views of the city as well as take some incredible photos.
Casa de Pilatos
A visit to Casa de Pilatos, a mansion that dates to the late 15th century, is worth a visit to see the mix of Mudéjar, Gothic and Renaissance decor. Inside you will find walls lined with beautiful tile work and ceilings with interlaced beams. It reminds me of the Real Alcázar on a smaller scale and is a fantastic to see.
You can do a guided tour of the top floor if you wish.
Triana
When exploring Seville’s distinct neighbourhoods, a visit to the Triana neighbourhood is a must as its Seville’s most emblematic, passionate, and colourful as it was the old Gypsy quarter.
Here you can find lovely vibrant streets, cafes, bars and lots of tapas!
Top places to eat and drink
El Rinconcillo
Food tells the history of a city as much as architecture does and don’t leave Seville without eating at the most iconic and historic bar in Seville called El Rinconcillo. It dates back to 1670 and as you step inside you feel like you have entered a bygone era.
The best way to experience it is stood near the bar where your order will be written on the bar top in chalk. The espinacas con garbanzos, a Sevillian speciality is a must try here, essentially spinach and chickpeas, and just delicious!
Mariatrifulca
This is a fabulous restaurant in Triana with incredible views and my advice is book it well in advance so you can get a seat on the rooftop terrace and get lovely views of the Guadalquivir river. Unfortunately we turned up spontaneously but we still got a great alfresco seat. The food is excellent!
La Terazza de EME
For a fabulous rooftop bar with incredible views of Seville’s Cathedral, head to the Hotel EME Catedral and take the lift up to its wonderful rooftop bar, La Terazza de EME. It’s the perfect spot for a sundowner.
Bar Americano
As you step inside the plush Bar Americano in the iconic Hotel Alfonso XIII, you will feel like you’ve walked into a quintessential Parisian cocktail bar circa 1925 with art deco vibes and stunning interiors.
There is an extensive list of wines and cocktails to choose from and they will happily make you a classic if you wish too.
Restaurante Al Aljibe
When exploring Plaza Alameda de Hercules, have lunch at Restaurante Al Aljibe. The short but sweet menu is executed really well and it has a lovely ambience.
Alfarería 21
When exploring Triana, have lunch at Alfarería 21, the latest bar and restaurant by Paco and Carlos Arcas, located in an old Triana ceramic factory. 
Confitería La Campana
A must visit patisserie and cafe which is an institution close to Las Setas De Sevilla. Try yema (a soft, crumbly biscuit cake wrapped like a toffee), or a delicious nata (a custard cake).
Have had Seville on my list for a while but has never materialised and seeing this trip has re-sparked inspiration to visit. Looks like a beautiful colourful city with great sites and food and drink!
I’m looking forward to reading about Panama
Thanks James! I am very excited to cover it!
It is definitely easy to book flights and hotel together isn’t it!