Top Things to Do and See in Seville, Spain

Bullfighting might be a controversial subject but ‘The Bullring’ is one of Seville’s most popular sights. Thought to be one of the finest bullrings in the country, the ‘Plaza de Toro’ is full of Spanish history and tradition. Built between 1762 and 1881, the arena holds 14,000 spectators with acoustics that allow them to hear everything, no matter where they were seated. There are still fights held today, but if you prefer to visit at a quieter time, the arena alone is a wonderful sight to behold with its late baroque architecture and impressive main entrance with a structure of exposed stone.

Built between 1402 and 1517, Seville Cathedral is one of the largest in the world. It stands at an enormous 126 meters long and 83 meters wide with a ceiling height of 37 meters. The classical exterior draws visitors into an equally impressive interior. For example, the main alter piece, built between 1482 and 1564 by Pierre Dancart, consists of 36 gilded panels, gently glimmering through the space. Globe-trotters can also pay their own homage to one of the world’s greatest travelers – the cathedral holds the sarcophagus of Christopher Columbus. A definite must-see.

As a city famous for its wonderful flamenco dancers, what better way than a museum to celebrate this fine art. A brilliant way to learn about Spanish culture, Museo del Baile Flamenco is dedicated to informing visitors by bringing together the elements of song, dance and guitar. The museum is located at the highest point of Seville and is built within an 18th century building which was constructed upon the foundations of a Roman temple. Perhaps one of the most technologically advanced museums in Spain, interactive exhibitions explore everything from music to costume. Exhibits include paintings and drawings whilst dance and music classes are also offered. Daily flamenco shows are also offered and are highly recommended.

Located within Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de España was built as a centerpiece for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition. Described as one of Seville’s most impressive sights, the plaza measures at 50,000 square meters. Only a twenty minute walk from Seville Cathedral, this is one of Seville’s more popular locations and with a canal measuring 500 meters, the plaza is known as ‘the Venice of Seville’. It is a magnificent sight and a must see, with its colored ceramics and 48 tiled alcoves, each representing a different province of Spain. This attraction is not only popular with tourists and visitors as it has been used for the location of a number of films including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.

Maria Luisa Park acted as the site of the Ibero-American Exhibition in 1929. Filled with orange trees, palm trees and flower beds, it is the perfect place to unwind. With a number of colorfully tiled benches and fountains erected in a Moorish style, this park brings a touch of the exotic to the city. It is surrounded by a number of historic sites and wonderful architectural buildings which allows visitors to indirectly appreciate the beauty of Seville. Apart from walking, there are a number of ways to travel around the park, including boat, bike or the more romantic horse and carriage.

In terms of architecture, Seville does not just embrace its historic past, but also the present. The Metropol Parasol, also known as the ‘Mushrooms of the Incarnation’, built between 2005 and 2011 is one of Seville’s newest architectural ventures. It is the largest wooden structure in the world with dimensions of 150 by 70 meters and stands at a height of an impressive 26 meters. This new site is home to a museum, which houses Roman remains found during the beginning of construction. However, the most impressive feature is ‘The Looker’ (el Mirador), which allow visitors to admire the view from the very top of the Parasol.

Once owned by the Marquis of Tarifa, the 16th century Casa de Pilatos was fashioned in the style of Renaissance design after his tour around Europe and the Holy Land. The building is commonly called the ‘House of Pilate’ as it was thought to resemble the Pontius Pilate’s home in Jerusalem. The courtyard, with its amazingly intricate tile and plaster work is the real highlight. It even includes statues from the Roman era depicting Minerva, Ceres and a dancing Muse. However, most impressive is the original Greek statue of Athena dating back to the 5th century.

Triana Market is a wonderful way to escape the busy tourist areas of Seville and find oneself face to face with the locals. Found in Triana, locally known as the ‘Independent Republic of Triana’ due to its strong personal identity, this indoor market is an opportunity to do something a little different. Granted, this market only sells food, but the buzzing atmosphere created here is definitely something to be experienced. This district is celebrated for its ceramic tiles, usually made from the mud of the riverbank and used in the vendor’s signs.