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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seville: The Ultimate Seville Itinerary

ByMia

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The intricate exterior of the Seville Cathedral on a cloudy day, one of the beautiful sights on my self-guided walking tour of Seville.

Seville. A unique and colorful city in the south of Spain, it is utterly captivating, with its diverse, breathtaking architecture, Mediterranean weather, and vibrant atmosphere. Want to explore its grounds? There’s no better way than through this self-guided walking tour of Seville.

But I might be biased because I love wandering around new cities on foot. Self-guided walking tours provide you with the ultimate freedom to go wherever you want to go. It also gives you the opportunity to find hidden gems and save money on transportation, so it’s great for budget travelers!

And Seville is truly an amazing city to explore on foot. There are so many things to see in Seville, and they are all within easy walking distance of each other. Plus, I had tons of fun meandering around the streets admiring the beautiful Moorish and Gothic architecture.

The detailed and intricate details on the arches of the Alcazar de Sevilla.

And with Seville’s warm Mediterranean climate, a self-guided walking tour is perfect year-round, whether you’re visiting Spain in winter or summer.

So today, I am going to outline the ultimate self-guided Seville walking tour, so you can wander around the lively streets yourself while visiting Seville’s top sights. Enjoy!

(And for those wanting a little sneak peak, here’s my Seville walking tour map).

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seville

Before we get started on this self-guided walking tour of Seville, I just wanted to add that you can edit your own walking tour however you want. You can start in Maria Luisa Park like I do, or you can go backwards, or you can just pick and choose whichever attractions you want to stop by.

In my opinion, the best thing about walking around Seville is that there are stunning sights around every corner. No matter what, you’ll have an amazing time!

1. Maria Luisa Park (Parque de María Luisa)

First, let’s start our self-guided walking tour Seville in Maria Luisa Park, or the Parque de María Luisa. A gorgeous park close to the Guadalquivir river, it is filled with lush, green trees, tiled benches, and delightful fountains.

A pond, fountain, and pink gazebo in Maria Luisa Park on a sunny day, the first stop on our walking tour of Seville.

Covering 34 hectares of land, this historic park was first opened in 1914. And, not only does it offer some of the best walks in Seville, but it is perfect for people-watching!

So, I definitely recommend starting your day off in Parque Maria Luisa. I found it to be absolutely enchanting and almost meditative to bask in the nature and charming architecture. It’s probably my favorite park in Seville, so it’s definitely a Seville must see!

2. Plaza de España

Next on our walking tour of Seville, head towards the Plaza de España. One of the biggest tourist attractions in Seville, this square is an architectural masterpiece.

The nearly empty Plaza de Espana in Seville Segovia on a bright morning, with the turquoise water of the canal free of boats.

170 meters long, the Plaza de Espana was built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exposition. And as you wander around, you may notice some familiar sights… because it was also a filming location for Star Wars Episode II!

Combining elements of the Renaissance and Moorish Revival styles, it may seem over-the-top to some… but I found it to be utterly breathtaking. It’s also a great place to take some fabulous pictures, so I recommend bringing your nice camera.

As you wander around the plaza, I recommend observing the beautiful tiled alcoves, as they each represent a province in Spain. You can also rent a rowboat to float along the canal (there’s a reason why the plaza is commonly referred to as “the Venice of Seville”!).

A view of the Plaza de Espana in the sun and the boats on the canal in the shade, the second stop on our walking tour of Seville.

Overall, whether you walk away thinking it’s marvelous or ostentatious, visiting the Plaza de España is a must do in Seville.

3. Royal Alcázar of Seville

Now, head over to the Royal Alcazar of Seville (also referred to as the Real Alcazar de Sevilla). Even if you only had one day in Seville, I would still recommend checking this lavish and stunning palace out.

The intricate, cloud-like cream arches of the Royal Alcazar of Seville in the sun.

Dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries, the Alcazar de Seville is a magnificent example of Mudéjar architecture, showcasing Islamic and Christian influences.

Additionally, the Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the Europe’s oldest palaces still in use. It combines a plethora of different cultural and stylistic influences, including Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance, and Romanesque design.

I’m not an architecture aficionado, but I was still floored by how beautiful and intricate the palace was. Trust me, the architecture is truly outstanding, and it was one of my favorite sights in Seville. And, it’s also a Game of Thrones filming location!

The lush green gardens of the Real Alcazar of Seville filled with shrubs and palm trees, a stop on our self-guided Seville walking tour.

So, if you’re wondering what to see in Seville, Spain, the Alcazar is definitely it.

And if you’re interested in booking your ticket in advance (and skipping the interminable lines), click here.

4. Torre del Oro

  • Cost: €3.00
  • Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30 am to 6:45 pm. Saturdays and Sundays: 10:30 am to 6:45 pm.
  • Time Estimate: 30 minutes

Next on our Seville walking route, let’s head over to the Torre del Oro, otherwise known as the Golden Tower Seville.

A view of the Torre del Oro basking in the sunlight with two white boats parked on the riverside, one of the best walks in Seville.

Housed next to the Guadalquivir river, this 36-meter high defensive tower dates back to the 13th century. Originally covered in gold tiles, it has served as a fortress, prison, and chapel over the years.

While I personally didn’t enter the tower, I still loved admiring its medieval exterior from the riverside.

It’s currently home to a naval museum (and it offers spectacular views of Seville), so if you’re interested in Seville’s naval history, check it out!

5. Plaza de Toros de Sevilla

Walking along the shimmering Guadalquivir river, head over to the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (i.e., Seville’s most famous bullring).

This portion of my free Seville walking tour is one of my favorite Seville walks, as the stroll along the river is super serene and picturesque; so, I definitely recommend taking your time!

The yellow and white Plaza de Toros de Sevilla on a sunny day.

La Maestranza is Seville’s bullring, and is considered one of the most important bullrings in Spain. Built in 1733, it is the first bullring to have an oval shape.

Now, I am absolutely not endorsing bullfighting in any shape or form. I personally didn’t enter the building, but I still found it interesting to admire from the outside. So, I still think it’s a worthwhile stop on your Seville tour.

However, if you are interested in learning more about bullfighting’s long and significant history in Spain, you can also enter and tour the place.

6. General Archive of the Indies

  • Cost: Free
  • Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 am to 4:45 pm. Sundays and public holidays: 10 am to 1:45 pm.
  • Time Estimate: 20 to 30 minutes

The next stop on our walking tour of Seville is the General Archive of the Indies, or the Archivo General de Indias.

Created in 1875, the General Archive of the Indies contains the documentation of the Council of the Indies, which was the governing body of Spain’s former empire in the Americas and the Philippines.

This makes this stop an absolute must for all history-lovers. But, if you’re in a rush or not too interested, I still recommend admiring the exterior architecture of this beautiful and grand building.

Bright photo of the stone arches of the Segovia Aqueduct on a sunny day.

Enjoying this walking tour? Then check out my self-guided walking tour to Segovia, one of the best day trips from Madrid!

7. Seville Cathedral

Next stop is another must for city sightseeing Seville: the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower (Catedral de Sevilla and La Giralda).

The spikes and gothic architecture of the Seville Cathedral on a cloudy day, the last official stop on my Seville self-guided walking tour.

The most breathtaking Seville church, the Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built in the 16th century over a 12th century mosque, the Seville Cathedral still contains some Muslim influences. For instance, the Giralda Tower was initially used for the call to prayer. Renovations over the years have added even more influences, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-gothic styles.

A view of the Seville Cathedral and the city of Seville from the Giralda Tower on a slightly cloudy day.

The cathedral was my favorite church in Seville, with intricate architectural details and stunning stained glass windows. And don’t forget to climb up the Giralda Tower; it’ll provide a panoramic view of Seville that will surely take your breath away.

And if you want to book your tickets in advance and skip the long lines, click here.

8. (Optional) Barrio de Santa Cruz

  • Cost: Free
  • Hours: Open 24 hours/day
  • Time Estimate: 30 to 60 minutes

Now, I’m going to list our next three stops as optional. This is because you might be out of time on my one day Seville itinerary, But, if not (and you have energy remaining), I definitely recommend continuing on this walking tour Seville.

So, next on my walking tour of Seville, it’s time to wander around the Barrio Santa Cruz (or the Santa Cruz District). This is the best area to stay in Seville, as it is the center for food, drinks, and shopping!

I absolutely loved perusing around this charming neighborhood, so I recommend taking some time to do so too.

With lovely Seville architecture and some of the best shops in Seville, it is easy to explore. Take your time, have a bite to eat, then continue on to our next destination: the Casa de Pilatos.

If you’re also visiting Barcelona, check out my 2-day Barcelona itinerary!

9. (Optional) Casa de Pilatos

Another Seville palace, the Casa de los Pilatos Seville is a fusion of Renaissance Italian and Mudéjar Spanish architecture, making for a unique and visually stunning experience.

A white fountain in the middle of the Casa de Pilatos square bathed in sunlight.

While it’s not actually a royal palace, this 16th century building is a civil palace. It also has intricate details both inside and outside the building, from the beautiful gardens, remarkable center fountain, and ornately decorated rooms.

If you have the time, I definitely suggest checking out the gardens and admiring the ceramic tiles inside the Casa de Pilatos Seville. If not, it’s still worth walking by on your way over to our next and final destination: the Setas de Sevilla!

10. (Optional) Setas de Sevilla – The Final Stop on our Walking Tour of Seville!

Last but not least, the final destination on our Seville walking tour is the Setas de Sevilla, or Las Setas. Known as the Seville mushroom, this structure showcases some of Seville’s more modern architecture.

The modern, wooden architecture of the Setas de Seville on a cloudy day, the last stop on my self-guided walking tour of Seville.

It’s a really cool wooden structure to look up at and admire. While I personally did not go up to the top (due to the price of tickets), I hear that it offers some breathtaking, aerial views of Seville.

It’s a great way to end our day walking in Seville, so take some time to appreciate the charming views! I hope you enjoyed your day tour around Seville.

Other Things to Do in Seville

Now that you’re finished my self-guided walking tour of Seville, you may be wondering… what else should you do in Seville? Well, Seville is filled with fantastic sights and experiences! Even without my tour, Seville is definitely worth visiting.

I’ve split my top recommendations of things to do in Seville into three categories: the best tours in Seville, the best sights and museums, and the best day trips from Seville.

The Best Tours in Seville

First, Seville offers some of the most fantastic tours in Spain. Here are my recommendations for the best tours in Seville:

A steel pan filled with shrimp, clams, peas, and other ingredients for paella, a dish that you’ll learn to cook in a Seville cooking class.
  • Seville Food Tour: If you want to sample Seville’s best tapas and bars, this is the tour for you. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll taste traditional dishes and learn about Seville’s history and food culture.
  • Seville Flamenco and Tapas Show: A trip to Spain would be incomplete without Flamenco! This tour offers a fantastic combination of delicious tapas and an authentic Flamenco show in the heart of Seville. And there’s also a cheaper flamenco show if you’re on a budget!
  • Seville Paddle Surf Route and Class: One of my favorite spots in Seville was the sparkling Guadalquivir River. This tour will teach you how to paddle board on the Guadalquivir River while pointing out the gorgeous sights along the river!
  • Seville Cooking Class and Triana Market Tour: On this essential experience in Seville, you’ll get to visit the bustling Triana Market, pick out fresh ingredients, then head to a cooking class where you’ll learn how to make a delicious 3-course Spanish lunch.
  • Seville Bike Tour: Want to explore Seville’s medieval streets on something faster than your feet? Then you have to book this amazing Seville bike tour.

The Best Sights and Museums in Seville (Not Included on our Walking Tour of Seville)

Next, Seville offers some fabulous free and paid attractions and museums that I definitely recommend checking out. They include:

An aerial, panoramic view of the city of Seville on a sunny day, a sight on my self guided walking tour Seville.
  • The Walls of Seville (Murallas de Sevilla): Surrounding the quarters of the Old Town of Seville, the Walls of Seville are the ancient, defensive walls surrounding the city. Initially built in Roman times, they are an absolute must-see in Seville!
  • Museum of Illusions: For a fun-filled museum perfect for all ages, you have to check out the Museum of Illusions. It’s filled with optical illusions, puzzles, and interactive exhibits that will leave you amazed.
  • Seville Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla): If you’re an art enthusiast like me, then this museum should definitely be on your list. With marvelous Spanish art dating back to the medieval period, you can spend hours perusing this gallery!
  • Archaeological Museum of Seville (Museo Arqueológico de Sevilla) [Currently Closed for Renovations]: With incredible Roman, medieval, and Islamic artifacts, this museum is perfect for those fascinated by history!
  • Triana District of Seville: If you love the colors and vibrancy of Seville, then I definitely suggest checking out the Triana District of Seville. On the other side of the Guadalquivir River, it’s an enchanting area filled with marvelous photography spots.

The Best Day Trips from Seville

Last but not least, why not leave Seville’s city limits? These are some of the most beautiful and thrilling day trips from Seville:

The side of a tan historic church in Cordoba Spain on a cobblestone road, a day trip from Seville.
The charming streets of Cordoba
The ancient and medieval city of Ronda (one of the best day trips from Seville), with a stone bridge connecting two cliffs together.
The medieval city of Ronda

Where to Stay in Seville

Once you’ve completed my Seville self guided walking tour, you may need a cozy place to unwind. So, where’s the best place to stay in Seville?

Let me share my top recommendations!

Luxury Accommodations:

  • Hotel Casa Palacio Don Ramón: If you’re searching for comfortable and luxurious accommodations in Seville, then look no further than the Hotel Casa Palacio Don Ramon. With stunning interior design, an outdoor swimming pool, and a mouthwatering continental breakfast, it’s the perfect place to stay.
  • Hotel Gravina 51: Want to stay in a beautiful, historic, 18th-century manor house? Then I recommend booking the charming and elegant Hotel Gravina 51.
A hand opening the door to a modern and comfortable hotel room in Seville Spain.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Hotel Giralda Center: Offering spacious rooms, picturesque terrace bars, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center, the Hotel Giralda Center is the perfect choice for travelers looking for luxury at a more affordable price.
  • La Suite del Conde Luxury Suites: If you’re looking for a cozy and delightful homestay for an affordable price, then I highly recommend La Suite del Conde Luxury Suites.

Budget Hostels:

  • room007 Salvador Hostel: Conveniently located in the center of Seville, room007 Salvador Hostel is a clean, comfortable, and modern hostel with great staff and a lovely terrace.
  • Oasis Backpackers’ Palace Seville: A hostel perfect for backpackers and budget travelers, Oasis Backpackers’ Palace Seville has an upbeat, social atmosphere, clean rooms, and friendly staff.
The Praia do Barranco do Martinho, one of the most wonderful beaches of Lagos Portugal

And if you’re wondering where to go after Seville, I recommend Lagos, Portugal! To learn more, read my article on the most stunning Lagos beaches.

And That’s It for our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seville!

I hope this self-guided Seville walking tour has inspired you to navigate Seville’s streets the best way possible: on foot! But, if you’re simply wondering what to see in Seville, then I hope this guide still helped you find the coolest places.

From the awe-inspiring architecture of the Seville Cathedral to the bustling streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville has it all. It’s one of my favorite cities in all of Spain, and I bet you’ll love it as much as I do, regardless of whether you’re spending 1 day in Seville, 2 days in Seville, or 3 days in Seville.

So go out and explore this beautiful city, and don’t forget to share your experiences with me – I’d love to hear all about your adventures in Seville. Happy travels!

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more self-guided walking tours and travel itineraries, make sure to check out my other articles.

Cheers,

Mia

Photos by Mia and Pixabay.

The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seville, Spain

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Mia

Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

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