5 Things You Can’t Miss: Seville

Seville is the capital of Spain’s Andalusia region and the country’s fourth most populous city. Come for the beautiful Baroque architecture without the throngs of tourists found in Barcelona or Madrid.

Here are five things you can’t miss on your visit.

5. Metropol Parasol

My fifth pick is this structure, known as Las Setas or The Mushrooms. It was built in 2004 by German architect Jürgen Mayer, who was commissioned to help revitalize the area and drive more tourism to this part of the city. Completed in 2011, it claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world. The six parts that make up The Mushrooms were inspired by the vaults in the Cathedral of Seville.

Can’t Miss: snap the quintessential tourist photo next to the “I Love Seville” sign in front of The Mushrooms (shown at the top of the page).

Address: Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla, Spain

4. Alcázar of Seville

Next up is the Alcàzar of Seville. This palace was constructed for the Christian king Peter of Castile. It sits on the site of a Muslim fortress that was destroyed in 1248. The upper stories are still occupied by the royal family when they visit Seville. The Alcazar became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Can’t Miss: take a moment for reflection in the gorgeous center courtyard. Relaxing and Instagram-worthy.

Address: Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

3. Plaza de España

Seville’s most famous square. Plaza de España or Spain Square (as it translates in English) anchors Maria Luisa Park. The semicircular structure was built for the 1929 world’s fair to house Spain’s technology and industry exhibits. The four bridges represent the ancient kingdoms and tiled alcoves showcase Spain’s many provinces. A 9-million-euro renovation took place between 2007 and 2011 to restore the structure to its former grandeur.

Can’t Miss: this is a great spot to catch Flamenco dancers. Stop for a quick street performance.

Address: Av. Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

2. Giralda

Before visiting the Tomb of Christopher Columbus, climb the 35 ramps to the top of the Giralda (the cathedral’s bell tower) for some great views of Seville. Originally built as the minaret in the Great Mosque of Seville, it remains an important symbol of the city today.

Can’t Miss: once back outside, look up at the summit of the tower to see the sculpture known as the Giraldillo (it means weather vane).

Address: Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

1. Tomb of Christopher Columbus

Inside the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, you’ll find the tomb of explorer Christopher Columbus. He is held up by four massive figures that represent the four kingdoms of Spain during Columbus’ life: Castille, Aragon, Navara, and Leon. The tomb was added to the cathedral in 1899 after his remains made quite a journey. Columbus passed in 1506, but the famed explorer’s body moved from Valladolid, Spain to the Dominican Republic to Havana and finally to Seville in 1899.

Can’t Miss: there is some controversy around who is actually entombed inside. The Dominican Republic claims that Columbus never left. Whether this is true or not remains a mystery. Decide for yourself as you marvel at this beautiful work.

Address: Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Come for the lovely weather of the warmest city in continental Europe and stay for the Flamenco dancers. These are my can’t miss picks for Seville.

Bonus Hotel Pick: The Querencia de Sevilla is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection and a new addition to city (it just opened in April 2022). Its location offers most of the major attractions just steps outside your door. The rooftop pool is a great place to relax after a day out. Check out my full review of the hotel here.

Address: C. Fernández y González, 4, 41001 Sevilla, Spain