Explore Seville’s Best Neighborhoods

Fall for the charm of this city, found in Spain’s beautiful and historic Andalusia region, by immersing yourself in each of its spirited districts, known as barrios. Dedicate time to exploring the city’s best neighborhoods and you’ll find that each barrio tells its own story.

Enter the tangle of cobbled lanes and discover a tapestry of Andalusian architecture, backstreet restaurants, and buzzing plazas.

Plan your itinerary using our guide to Seville’s best neighborhoods and discover the jewels of this proud Spanish city.

Santa Cruz

Make for this picturesque pocket of the city, home to Seville’s world-famous historic architectural wonders. Discover the architectural beauty of the Alcázar, the star of the show in this district, as well as the city. Striking Moorish, Mudéjar, and Renaissance detailing can be found around every turn.

Wander deep into the complex to find the major highlight, the Salón de Embajadores. Tear your eyes away from its lavish ceiling and head out into the lush manicured gardens. Here, your senses will go into overdrive, with the gentle tinkle of fountains, heavenly aroma of citrus trees, and marvelously designed galleries.

Take the short stroll from the royal palace to the sprawling Gothic Seville Cathedral. Enter into the enormous nave and follow passageways to discover more than 80 chapels in this 15th-century complex. Finish off your tour with a trip to the top of the Giralda, the grand bell tower. Make your way to the top and you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views of the city.

Spend the rest of the afternoon aimlessly wandering the maze of characterful cobbled streets. Meander from one romantic plaza to another, spotting quaint churches and palaces on the way.

Triana

Get a taste for the authentic flavor of the city’s most soulful neighborhood, Triana. Venture across the Isabel II Bridge over the glittering river from the historic city core to this thriving district. A maze of colorful streets unfolds before you, hiding a wealth of tapas bars and flamenco theatres.

When the heat of the day reaches its peak, retreat to the tiny eateries and go tapas hopping. Graze on patatas bravas and freshly grilled prawns. Embark on a gentle post-lunch stroll around the barrio and spot mesmerizing handmade tiles covering the houses. Stop off at Mercado de Triana, a vibrant food market. Listen for the cry of grocers, butchers, and fishmongers showing off their fresh fare. If you’ve got room to spare, pick up fresh some pastries for an indulgent afternoon sweet treat.

El Arenal

The well-heeled crowd flock to this upmarket part of Seville, nestled next to the river. Join them and discover the sights of the neighborhood. The most famous is La Maestranza, the city’s 18th-century bullring. While controversial, bullfighting remains a part of the local culture – discover more about its heritage at the onsite museum.

Back outside, make for the Torre del Oro perched on the river bank. Learn all about Spanish naval history at the 13th-century watchtower’s exhibition before scaling the steps to the rooftop, where you can enjoy tranquil views of the riverside. Just around the corner, discover Hospital de la Caridad, which offers a different type of architectural styling. Admire the baroque detailing of the façade before venturing inside to see the paintings that hang in the chapel.

Macarena

Discover a different pace of life in Macarena. Venture north-east of the city center and explore this authentic Sevillian neighborhood that’s shrugged off its history and embraced its artisan character.

First stop, Feria Market – the oldest of its kind in the city. Stalls groan under the weight of fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish, while locals shout their orders to the eager traders. Hop from one stall to the other, feasting on grilled sardines and sampling razor clams.

Enjoy the sunshine back outside and amble along the nearby street of Calle San Luis to soak up the pretty architecture. Head north and you’ll eventually find yourself at the eye-popping mustard-yellow Basílica de La Macarena. Duck inside to see find a sacred statue, the Virgen de la Esperanza Macarena – the Virgin of Hope of Macarena – then make your way across the street to see the original Moorish wall that still stands here.

El Centro

Indulge your inner shopaholic in El Centro, Seville’s version of retail paradise. Whether you’re searching for authentic souvenirs or high-end fashion stores to fill your suitcase, you’ll find it in this modern district of the city.

Once you’re all shopped out, turn your attention to Metropol Parasol. This modern, mushroom-like structure provides a sharp contrast to the largest historic architecture of the city. Take the elevator to its honeycomb rooftop and roam the winding walkways to discover unparalleled views of Seville.

Head back down to the ground for lunch at Perro Viejo, a buzzing tapas joint tucked away on a quiet street just a few minutes’ walk away from Metropol Parasol. Grab a table inside the chic interior and indulge in plump chicken dumplings and Iberian ham croquettes oozing cheese.

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