In Seville, we find the perfect blend of history, architecture, and everyday life in the city in a truly exceptional way. Its urban layout cannot be understood without its squares, spaces that have borne witness to the Roman era, the splendour of the Muslim period, the Christian conquest and the major reforms of the 19th and 20th centuries.
To discover the true essence of the Andalusian capital, we suggest a route that’s both geometric and historic.
We’ll set aside aimless wandering to follow a route starting at Plaza de España and ending in the lively atmosphere of Plaza del Salvador, discovering along the way all kinds of monuments, hidden corners, and culinary stops that will let you see Seville from a different perspective.
To ensure you enjoy the city from the very first minute, we offer you the option to store your luggage or bags at our luggage storage lockers in Seville city.
We begin our tour in Plaza de España - Spanish Square of Seville
Plaza de España was built by the architect Aníbal González for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and is the finest example of Sevillian regionalist architecture. Its semi-circular shape faces the river and symbolises Spain’s embrace of its former colonies in the Americas, as ships used to arrive precisely via that part of the river.
As you stroll around the pond, you’ll cross four bridges representing the ancient kingdoms of Spain (Castile, León, Navarre and Aragon). Don’t forget to look for the bench representing your province; there are 48 of them, decorated with Triana tiles and arranged in alphabetical order. Entry is free and the square is open continuously from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm.
For your information , the busts between the arches depict important historical figures, from Seneca to the Catholic Monarchs.
Plaza de América
Just a few metres from Plaza de España, within María Luisa Park, lies Plaza de América. It is a visual feast where Aníbal González experimented with three styles: Mudejar (Museum of Arts and Traditions), Renaissance (Archaeological Museum) and Gothic (Royal Pavilion). It is popularly known as the ‘Plaza de las Palomas’, an ideal spot where locals and tourists alike enjoy the shade of the orange trees and the beauty of its central rose garden.
Plaza de Santa Cruz and Patio de Banderas
If we continue our walk northwards through the city, we find ourselves in the Santa Cruz neighbourhood. Our first stop is Plaza de Santa Cruz, a small square with undeniable charm. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, ideal for taking a breather. As a bit of a curiosity, there’s usually a cat resting on the central monument, which gives it a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere where you can slow down – don’t be in a hurry.
Discover the best view of the Giralda
The route takes us to the Patio de Banderas, which, covering over 1,400 square metres, connects the neighbourhood with the historic centre. Surrounded by the imposing walls of the Reales Alcázares, it evokes the area’s Jewish past and offers a completely peaceful atmosphere. From here, you can enjoy one of the most famous views of the Giralda rising above the neighbourhood’s white houses.
We recommend doing the route first thing in the morning; you’ll avoid the large crowds and be able to enjoy the tranquillity of this walled courtyard.
The historic heart of Seville
Passing through the walls of the Alcázar, we find ourselves in Plaza del Triunfo, the only place in the city surrounded by three buildings designated as World Heritage Sites: the Reales Alcázares, the Cathedral and the Archivo de Indias. Its name derives from a small temple erected to give thanks for the city’s survival of the terrible Lisbon earthquake of 1755. The imposing monument to the Immaculate Conception also stands out here.
Right next door, at the foot of the Giralda, lies the Plaza Virgen de los Reyes. Formerly known as the Corral de los Olmos, today it is an open space dominated by a famous fountain-lamp post and the Archbishop’s Palace. Please note that if you wish to visit the Alcázar, general admission costs €15.50. The Archivo de Indias, meanwhile, is free to enter.
Plaza del Cabildo
Before leaving the cathedral area, we take a slight detour from Avenida de la Constitución to discover Plaza del Cabildo. For many visitors, this spot goes completely unnoticed, but it is a real architectural gem thanks to its semi-circular shape, its columns and its fountain. During the week it exudes a sense of absolute peace, whilst on Sunday mornings it comes to life as it hosts a traditional coin and collectables market.
We continue our walk until we reach Plaza Nueva, the city’s civic centre, where the Town Hall is located. Shortly after the reconquest of the city by Ferdinand III the Saint, the great 13th-century Franciscan Convent was built, of which only the small chapel of San Onofre remains today. The current square, featuring the statue of Ferdinand III the Saint, dates from the mid-19th century. It is a typical meeting place where shoppers mingle with those who simply want to sit for a while and soak up the atmosphere.
Contrasts through time at Seville´s old town
Heading north, the urban landscape changes completely as we reach Plaza de la Encarnación. After decades of neglect and failed projects, architect Jürgen Mayer transformed the space with his Metropol Parasol structure, popularly known as ‘Las Setas’. It is the perfect example of how Seville blends its past (beneath the surface lies the Antiquarium, with valuable remains of Roman Hispalis) with contemporary avant-garde design. Interestingly, the square still boasts the city’s oldest fountain.
Nearby is El Rinconcillo, Seville’s oldest bar, founded in 1670. You can sample traditional tapas of exceptional quality in a historic setting, and at very reasonable prices. Discover our recommendations for great dining in Seville in one of our previous blog posts.
To round off our tour, we return to the commercial heart of the city at Plaza del Salvador.
This place is steeped in history: it was once a Roman forum; in the 9th century, it was home to the first great Aljama mosque (Ibn Adabbas); and today it is dominated by the imposing Church of El Salvador, a Baroque gem featuring works by the master Martínez Montañés.
Nowadays, the arcades of this square are one of the city’s main social hubs. It is a local custom to gather here, especially at midday or in the late afternoon, to enjoy a beer in the sun.
Entry to the Church of El Salvador costs €7, but if you buy the combined ticket which includes the Cathedral and the Giralda, you can visit both sites for €13 by purchasing it online. Best of all, buying this ticket online lets you skip the long queues that usually form at the foot of the Giralda.
Ending your day with views of the impressive façade of El Salvador, surrounded by Seville’s characteristic atmosphere, is the best way to round off a day packed with discovering the heritage, history and life of Seville.
Visiting Seville’s squares is the best way to understand the city’s evolution, from its Roman and Arab past to its most modern developments.
Each has its own character, whether monumental like the Plaza de España or more everyday like the Plaza del Salvador. We hope this guide helps you organise your visit and enjoy Seville to the full.
