During the first of your 2 days in Seville, you can discover some of the city’s most popular and must-see locations. You’ll stay central as you get your bearings and focus on some of the most exceptional landmarks in Seville that conveniently lay within the city’s historic center, which is the largest in all of Europe.
Climb The Giralda At Seville Cathedral
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Catedral de Sevilla is one of the top sights in Seville and never fails to astound all that lay eyes on it.
Also known as the ‘Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See’, this architectural marvel boasts a miraculous artistic heritage. It also stretches 135 meters in length and 42 meters in height, making it the 4th largest cathedral in the world.
And its Giralda, or ‘bell tower’ is just as impressive. Towering over the city and dominating its skyline at a height of 103m, it was originally created as the minaret (used to project calls to prayer) when the cathedral was historically a mosque.
Whilst you will only find 17 steps on the way to reaching its highest point, you have to venture up 34 steep sloping ramps. Whilst tiring, this is certainly worth it, offering some of the most rewarding and unrivaled panoramic views of the city’s skyline, making it a must see in Seville.
More details for booking tickets and the opening times of the Giralda and Cathedral are available on the Cathedral’s official website.
Visit The Real Alcázar
In Seville old town, another unmissable attraction that happens to only be a short stroll away from the Giralda is the Royal Alcázar.
Also known as Seville palace, the Real Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed building originally constructed in 913 AD. The iconic structure perfectly displays the beauty of the medieval Islamic heritage of Seville, with breathtaking halls and courtyards filled with marble pillars, decorative embellishments, and brightly colored walls.
The Seville Palace also features sensational courtyards filled with water features and gardens with immaculately trimmed shrubbery and exotic horticulture.
It’s a unique blend between the Muslim, Moorish, and Spanish Christian cultures that have, over thousands of years, embedded themselves into Seville, which has contributed to it being one of the most famous sights in Spain.
The Real Alcázar is open from 9:30 am until 5 pm every day of the week and details of ticket prices can be found on its official website.
Catch A Glimpse of the Plaza de Cabildo
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the Avenida de la Constitución, on which the Seville Cathedral is located, you’ll find a hidden square that many wouldn’t even know exists. But, during the first day of your Seville vacation, we’d recommend seeking out this lovely refuge that provides a peaceful setting away from the noise of Seville’s historic center.
This semi-circled white-walled town hall square is a tranquil spot with a beautiful fountain in its center where you can perch for a moment of peace. But, should you be visiting on a Sunday morning, you’ll find one of the city’s most famous antique markets to be held here.
With bits and bobs amongst antiques, artwork, and other miscellaneous tangibles being sold here on market day, the square burst to life, offering a lovely contrast to its usual tranquil atmosphere.
Explore The Jewish Quarter
Also known as Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville’s Jewish quarter is a labyrinth of cobbled backstreet alleyways dotted with charming squares and bars to grab a bite to eat or drink at during a day of Seville sightseeing.
Historically, Barrio Santa Cruz was one of the areas of Seville that housed the Jewish population when the city was conquered by the Christians in 1248. Unfortunately, the Christian reign led to years of tension, destruction, and death for the Jews and now, the Jewish Quarter harbors this somewhat dark history within its walls.
Its white-washed homes and ochre-colored walls broken up by traditional shop fronts and eateries make for one of the most picturesque places to go in Seville, making for a perfect morning or afternoon activity.
Venture Through The Plaza de España
The Plaza de España was originally built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929. This was a world fair and multinational event held to showcase the twinning between Spain and the U.S. Brazil, Portugal, and Latin America.
Arguably the most impressive square in the city, its semi-circular structure is an artistic masterpiece formed of a palace-fortress, a small canal sheltered by charming bridges, and a huge fountain, enclosed within the verdant greenery of Seville’s Maria Luisa Park.
The most impressive part of this attraction, which is a must see in Seville, is the delicately crafted tile art motifs hidden within the alcoves of the plaza. With 48 in total, each represents a different province in Spain in its full glory.
You’ll often find performances and entertainers gathering in the plaza showcasing some of Seville’s artistic talents, such as Flamenco and Spanish guitar playing.