Seville Travel Guide: The Most Magical City in Spain + Best Things to Do

I’ve been to Seville twice now, and somehow the city feels even more magical each time. There’s just something about Seville, the colors, the light, the music in the streets, the history layered into everyday life, that makes it one of the most charming cities in Spain.

If you’re traveling around Spain (or even living here), Seville is an absolute must-add to your list. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always more to uncover. Below I’m sharing how I got there, where to stay, and my favorite things to do in Seville, all based on my recent trip.

How I Got to Seville (And Back)

I traveled to Seville by bus from Malaga, and honestly, it was one of the easiest trips ever. In many cases, the bus is actually faster than the train, especially when you factor in station transfers and waiting times.

I booked my bus tickets through Bookaway, and it took seconds. What I loved most is that the platform is available in the language I prefer, clearly shows amenities, ratings, and reviews, and makes the whole process completely stress-free.

If you’re booking your transport, you can use code FANCY5 for 5% off your Bookaway booking. Book it here or below.

Where to Stay in Seville

Seville has a great range of accommodations, from boutique stays to luxury hotels. These are some solid options depending on your travel style:

Budget-Friendly Options

• JOY Plaza de Armas Hostel Sevilla – Great low-budget option with higher ratings. 
• U-Sense For You Hostel – Another great low-budget hostel that is clean and has good ratings.

Boutique & Mid-Range

• Ocean Drive Seville – This is where I stayed, and I loved it. Stylish, comfortable, and perfectly located for exploring the city.
• NUMA Stays in Seville – A great option if you like modern, design-forward stays with apartment-style comfort.
• Hotel Boutique Casa del Poeta – Beautiful boutique in the city centre with a cosy vibe and elegant design.

Luxury Stays

• Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Seville’s legendary 5-star palace-style property, classic luxury in a historic setting near major attractions, perfect for a special occasion stay. 
• Hotel Colon Gran Melia – A refined 5-star hotel offering luxury amenities such as restaurants, a gym, rooftop pool and spa with a hammam.
• Mercer Plaza Sevilla – Elegant luxury hotel with refined service, perfect for a memorable Seville stay. 
• Hospes Las Casas Del Rey De Baeza – Charming 5 star boutique in the Old Town combining history with modern comfort.

Seville is very walkable, so location matters more than luxury level, staying central will make your trip much easier.

Best Things to Do in Seville

Book a Private Tour with Context Travel

If you love history and cultural depth, this is a must. I booked two private tours with Context Travel, and they were incredibly insightful. They are both two of their newer tours in Seville.

Tours I did personally and can recommend:

• The Royal Alcázar Tour
• The Triana Neighborhood Tour

Both were rich in storytelling and context, perfect if you want to truly understand Seville rather than just see it. I highly recommend these for history lovers.

You can use code FANCYNANCISTA for a discount on Context Travel tours.

Book a Food Tour with Devour Tours

A food tour is one of the best ways to get acquainted with Seville’s culinary scene. I joined a tour with Devour Tours, and it was a full, satisfying experience, both food-wise and culturally. I booked their Seville Tapas, Tavern, and History tour, and it was amazing!

Even though I’ve been to Seville before, there were dishes I hadn’t tried yet, and I ended up loving them. It’s a great mix of tapas, history, and local insight.

You can book the exact food tour I did here.

(Check out my full food tour recap for more details.)

Visit Plaza de España

One of the most iconic places in Seville, Plaza de España is absolutely breathtaking. Walk around, admire the tiled bridges, and take in the sheer scale of it all. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon light.

Explore Local Boutique Stores

One thing I always make time for in Seville is shopping. The city has such a colorful, artistic vibe, and the boutique stores truly reflect that.

I came across several locally owned boutiques selling fashion, accessories, ceramics, and unique souvenirs. The charm here is unmatched, and the shopping experience feels very personal.

Here is a list of local boutique and vintage stores I can recommend checking out:

• Isadora
• Laura Moreno
• Luisa
• FLOW
• Demi Pile
• Mosaico Vintage Seville
• PENINSULA Vintage Ropa
• Lamarca
• Visit Triana neighborhood to buy some gorgeous ceramics

See the Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol)

While it’s impressive from the outside, I highly recommend actually going up inside the Setas. The elevated walkway gives you panoramic views over the city.

Go during sunset so you can experience both daytime and nighttime views, plus, there’s a beautiful light show after dark that makes it even more special. Book your tickets here.

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Experience Flamenco in Seville

Did you know that Seville is considered the birthplace of flamenco? Watching a flamenco performance here feels especially meaningful.

Look for an intimate tablao or cultural venue rather than a large tourist show for a more authentic experience. Book a Flamenco experience here.

Go on a Guided Bullring Tour

The Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza is one of the most famous bullrings in Spain. Even if you don’t support bullfighting, the guided tour is very educational, focusing on history, architecture, and cultural significance. Book it here.

It provides important context to a tradition that has shaped Andalusian history for centuries.

Visit the Alcázar Palace

The Alcázar is one of the most stunning royal palaces in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture is truly unforgettable.

Book tickets in advance if possible — it’s one of Seville’s most popular attractions.

Visit Seville Cathedral & La Giralda

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you’ll find incredible architecture, artwork, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Climbing La Giralda offers panoramic views over the city and is well worth it. Book your tickets here.

What to Eat & Drink in Southern Spain (Andalusia)

You can’t leave Seville without trying these Andalusian classics:

Must-Try Foods

• Jamón Ibérico
• Local cheeses
• Salmorejo (cold tomato-based soup, thicker than gazpacho)
• Espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas)
• Pescaíto frito (fried fish)
• Montaditos (small sandwiches)
• Tortilla española

Drinks to Try

• Tinto de verano (my absolute favorite!)
• Manzanilla (local sherry wine)
• Orange wine

Food in Seville is social, slow, and meant to be enjoyed, don’t rush it.

Seville is one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave. Between its history, food, architecture, and vibrant local culture, it offers such a rich and unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, I can’t recommend adding Seville to your itinerary enough, whether it’s for a weekend or a longer stay. Make sure to save this Things To Do in Seville for your next trip there!

If you have any favorite spots or recommendations in Seville, feel free to share, I’m already dreaming of my next visit.

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