After a couple days of wandering Sevilla’s streets, climbing its tower, and soaking in its traditions, Sevilla became one of our favorite cities in Spain. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through plazas and church bells echo across the city, giving it an elegant yet livable vibe.
Climbing the Giralda
Our first stop was the magnificent Sevilla Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Built on the site of a former mosque, it reflects centuries of history layered into one building.
The highlight, quite literally, was climbing the Giralda Tower. Unlike most cathedral bell towers, there are no stairs for most of the ascent. Instead, a series of gently sloping ramps were originally designed so riders on horseback could reach the top. The climb is surprisingly manageable, and with each turn, glimpses of the city begin to appear through the windows.
Inside the cathedral, soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate chapels, and centuries of artwork remind visitors just how important Sevilla once was during Spain’s Golden Age. The cathedral is also home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
The cathedral showcases Sevilla’s religious history but the Royal Alcázar tells the story of its royal past.
A Royal Palace Straight from a Fairytale
The Royal Alcázar feels like walking through an storybook. Every room features detailed tilework and carved ceilings. Still used today by the Spanish royal family during official visits, it’s stunning.
But our favorite residents weren’t royal at all, they were the peacocks. Wandering freely through the gardens, they seemed completely at home among the flowers and fountains, as if they knew they were part of the attraction. They added a playful touch to an already magical setting and quickly became some of our favorite photo subjects.
The Soul of Sevilla: Flamenco
No visit to Sevilla feels complete without experiencing flamenco. Watching it live is completely different from seeing clips online. The emotion is unmistakable. The rhythmic guitar, haunting vocals, rapid footwork, and expressive movements combine into something that feels deeply personal rather than simple choreography.
What surprised us most was the intensity. There were moments so quiet you could hear every footstep against the stage, followed by bursts of applause as the performers poured every ounce of energy into the performance.
Even without understanding the lyrics, the passion translated.
Spain’s Most Beautiful Plaza: Plaza de España
If Sevilla has a postcard image, it’s almost certainly Plaza de España.
Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, the enormous semicircular plaza is unlike anywhere else in Spain. A canal wraps around the building, crossed by graceful bridges, while colorful ceramic tile alcoves celebrate each Spanish province.
It’s easily one of Spain’s most beautiful public spaces.
As we continued our journey through Spain, Sevilla remained one of those places we found ourselves talking about again and again, and one we’d gladly return to.
Next stop: a side trip tp Gibraltar.
If you enjoyed this post, check out our other adventures in Spain including Barcelona, Madrid, and our road trip through Cordoda, Granada, and Ronda for more travel inspiration.
Happy adventuring, Rochelle