Solo Travel in Seville

Seville is really easy to visit. It is walkable, there is a lot to see and do and it has a nice friendly vibe. The locals are very courteous and restaurants and tour guides speak some English but outside of these situations you may need some basic Spanish to get by.

The centre of Seville is safe but try to avoid the bus station at night if you can. One area of the city to avoid is Las Tres Mil in the south of the city and be careful of pickpockets in the touristy area of Metropol Parasol.

Stay for – 3 to 5 nights.

About Seville

The capital of the Andalusia region, Seville has to be one of the most romantic cities in Spain. Beautiful, cultural and full of charm, Seville is just beautiful and has historic plazas, stunning palaces, and old winding streets.

A blend between Islamic and Catholic cultures, it is home to one of the oldest palaces in Europe, the Real Alcazar de Sevilla, a Moorish-style palace which was once home to Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand.

Founded by the Romans, you’ll also find Roman ruins amongst the Moorish baths, and churches – once former mosques. Plaza de Espana is the city’s most important and vibrant square full of Spanish history, detailed archways and even a canal to sail along on.

Andalusians boast that they have the best tapas cafes, and the Macarena district certainly does not disappoint. Fill up on flavoursome dishes before visiting the La Macarena Basilica then head to the cultural district of Triana, home to Seville’s flamenco to one of the authentic flamenco bars known as a tablaos.

Just walking through the city you’ll discover beautiful, hidden corners and atmospheric streets quintessentially Andalusian. This city is a photographer’s dream and Avenida La Palmera has some of Seville’s prettiest architecture dating back to the early 20th century.

Seville is bursting with history, from La Giralda – a lone minaret, to the Cathedral of Saint May of the See where Christopher Columbus is buried. This cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers fantastic views of Seville.

Easy to navigate on foot, everything is at your footstep. From Maria Louisa Park with beautiful fountains, pavilions and orange trees, to Castillo San Jorge, and Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporaneo, a former monastery turned contemporary art museum.

The shopping is great and the festivals are first class. Seville holds one of the best annual Semana Santa celebrations in the whole of Spain so avoid visiting in Easter if you don’t like crowds.

With historic plazas, and fantastic architecture, if you love flamenco and Spanish guitar you will fall in love in Seville.

Did you know?

Seville has appeared in movies! Plaza de Espana appeared in Star Wars as the Theed Royal Palace on Planet Naboo. The location was also used in the movie, Lawrence of Arabia.

The Alcazar

Top Things To See in Seville

1. Alcázar Palace

The most visited and also most impressive monument in the city, the palace was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. Built by the Moorish rulers who once occupied Seville from the 8th century, it was later claimed by the Catholic Kings. The palace is simply stunning with Islamic art and Renaissance and Gothic design. It is the oldest royal palace which is still in use today (by the King of Spain). With stunning architecture and mosaics, you don't need to get a guide unless you want to learn more about the history. Pre-book your ticket to avoid any queues. (TIME = 2-4 hours).

* Check dates, availability and prices: Alcazar Guided Tour with Priority Entrance

The cathedral

2. The Giralda / The Catedral de Sevilla

Also known as The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, this huge Roman Catholic cathedral is the largest Gothic building in Europe and also the third largest on the continent. Built on the site of a mosque from 1402 to 1506 it is also said to have the largest altarpiece in the world with 45 carved scenes from the life of Christ.

Inside it is lavishly designed, and although opulent with gold decoration it has a sense of simplicity about it. Inside is also the tomb of Christopher Columbus where his remains were transferred from Cuba.

The ticket also includes entrance to the Giralda, one of the only parts of the mosque which has been preserved. This lone minaret is now a bell tower and if you can climb to the top of the tower on the 30+ ramps (there aren’t any stairs) you’ll be rewarded with a great view. Get here early to avoid the queues. (TIME 1-2 hours)

* Check dates, availability and prices: Seville Cathedral and Giralda: Skip The Line Ticket

Plaza Espana

3. Plaza de Espana

Plaza de Espana was built in the early 15th century and is one of the prettiest squares in Seville. The layout is beautiful with gardens, water fountains and buildings worthy of starring in movies.

This monumental plaza is a magical place to visit, and next to Maria Luisa Park so you can relax in nature afterwards. (TIME – 1 hour)

Escape the crowds

On a boat trip to Sanlucar la Mayor. The boat takes you along the Guadalquivir River past the gorgeous Donana National Park. Or at Maria Louisa Park sitting in one of the ceramic benches amongst organs trees, admiring the statues and pine canopies.

Lose yourself

Escape from the buzz of the city and lose yourself amongst the trees and the nature of Murillo Gardens. Then admire the church before enjoying a chilled beverage at one of the cute bars.

Get a great view

The waffle-like structure of Metropol Parasol, which was inspired by the vaults of Seville Cathedral, with four levels. Entry to the observation viewpoint is less than €5 for views of the entire city and it is open from 10:00 to 23:00.
At the La Giralda. Just climb the ramps for amazing views across the city.
At Corte Ingles, Spain’s well-known department store. Take the lift to the 5th floor to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat on its swanky terrace with views of the city.

Interact with the locals

Sevillanos have a love for the outside so just look outside the bars where they congregate during the warmer months.

Places to enjoy the sun

If you are looking for a great place for a sunset the Doña Maria Hotel has Seville’s oldest rooftop terrace. From here you can see views of La Giralda and the Cathedral whilst enjoying a cold drink and enjoying the sunset.

Markets

Triana market is just across the Triana Bridge and is the city’s main food market. It was built over an old castle, and has lots of tapas choices with fruit, vegetables and meat to buy. The names of the shop fronts are displayed on big mosaic tiles.

If you like antique shopping, Plaza de Cabildo has an antiques market every Sunday within its square. On a Thursday morning browse the antiques market at Calle Feria.

Local’s Tip: “Santa Cruz is a cute neighbourhood with pretty buildings and winding streets. It’s my favourite place in Seville.”

Solo’s Tip: “The ticket for the cathedral includes a visit to a church so buy tickets at the small church instead to bypass the queue. Either get to the Alcazar early to beat the crowds, or buy your ticket in advance to skip the line.”

* Click here to discover all activities in Seville

Best Things To Do in Seville For Solos

Active Girl about the Globe (GatG)

Join the sporty locals and go for a jog along the riverside. Or just take a walk from the Giralda, past the cathedral to the Barrio Santa Cruz for a free sightseeing walk.

Adventure GatG

Rent a rowing boat and and see the city, and especially Plaza de Espana from the water’s edge.

Adrenalin GatG

Did you know you could bungee jump in Seville? Throw yourself over a lake from 25 metres and experience an adrenalin rush in Spain.

Arty & Museum GatG

Castillo San Jorge is an interesting museum and well laid out. It is the former HQ and prison of the Spanish Inquisition. Inside one of the darkest times in the history of Spain (during Catholic Spain) is bought to life. The entrance is next to the market.

The Museum of Fine Arts was founded in the early 19th century and features artwork ranging from the Middle Ages all the way to the 20th century. Inside its old convent walls you’ll find masterpieces from famous artists such as Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a Baroque painter.

The Archaeological Museum of Sevilla is interesting if you enjoy history. Over three floors the rooms are beautifully organised with Roman mosaics, frescoes and elegant statues rescued from the site of Italica, which is nearby. The museum is in chronologic order and has Paleothic artefacts from the 6th century. It doesn’t take long to get around either.

The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions is a must if you like all things lace. Situated in a beautiful building in Maria Luisa Park, inside you’ll find traditions such as olive pressing, tile painting and the making of Spanish guitars. It is quite small but it also has a lovely collection of embroideries and lace. This museum is near the Archeological Museum so it’s worth a stop to see both.

Budget GatG

Castillo San Jorge is free to visit every day. The Cathedral and Giralda are free on Sunday afternoons and the Alcazar Palace is free on Monday afternoons. Check with the tourist office for other sights and museums which have free days.

In the evenings look for the small bars called Peñas flamencas, which sometimes have free or discounted shows.

Cultural GatG

The Museo del Baile Flamenco is the place to learn about this country’s traditional dance. The museum is quite small and is in the first floor. At night they hold energising flamenco shows with lots of passion. The show costs approx €20 plus the museum entrance and are a great way to experience the Spanish culture and spend an evening.

The Flamenco Dance Museum also hosts traditional, live flamenco performances. See Spain's traditional dance in an 18th century building, for an hour in the evening and visit the Flamenco Dance Museum too.

* Check dates, availability and prices: Flamenco Dance Museum Show Tickets

History GatG

Seville is full of history. If you are here in summer you may see the actors who re-enact Seville’s historic scenes from different places in the city.
Take a free historical tour to learn more about the history of the city. Visit the Jewish Quarter, cathedral, Arab Palace and the Plaza Espana.
If not, take a Ronda Walking Tour to see the Mondragon Palace, Duquesa de Parcent Square and the Plaza de Toros (the bullring).
Outside of Seville are the ruins of Italica, the first city in the Roman Empire which was built outside of Italy. You can take a tour to visit the ruins including the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.

Nature GatG

Head south of the city centre to the Maria Luisa Park with Moorish designed fountains and plenty of greenery. This large, public park was once the gardens of the Palace of San Telmo. It has plenty of seating areas and a pond to sit and relax by. If you visit in the hot months there is shade to keep you cool.

Shopping GatG

They say that Sevillanos are the most fashionably dressed in Andalusia. You’ll find the usual chain and department stores here as well as artisan shops. The main shopping district is at Calle Sierpes and Tetuan where you can find everything from clothes and jewellery to tourist goods. Find clothing boutiques and upmarket shops at Los Remedios or Calle Asuncion or just wander through the side streets to find some unique shops. If you do go shopping here don’t forget that shops can close between 2-5pm for siesta.

Wellness GatG

Treat yourself at Aire de Sevilla thermal baths where you can experience a jet stream room, steam bath and also harman. The spa is situated in an old 16th century mansion and they even have a salt bath to submerge yourself in.

Wine GatG

Seville is full of bars serving local wine but if you are looking to enjoy a selection of Spanish wines in a group, you can sample eight red and white wines from Spain’s different regions, accompanied by a local wine expert on a wine tour.

Or sample Spain’s sherry and brandy-making on a private Jerez Winery and Brandy experience. Find out about sherry and brandy production within this well-known region on a 5 hour excursion.

Have a tourist moment

On a segway tour, zooming around the city with others. Or indulge your inner child at Isla Magica Theme Park.

Don’t have much time?

Make sure you visit the Royal Alcazar of Seville and the Giralda which are in close proximity of each other and can be seen within a whole day.

Where to wear your heels

At the rooftop bar of the Casa Romana Hotel. This rooftop is aptly named “Roof” and is also one of the best places to get a good view of Seville. You’ll also find a good mix of locals and tourists here. Pre-book if you want to order dinner.

Tours in Seville

Join a Free Walking Tour and learn from guides who are art historians who tell you all about the city. You just give a donation at the end.

Take a Guided Tour into Alcazar and get to skip the line. Led by a local guide you get to experience an hour’s tour of the UNESCO Alcazar and learn about its fascinating history.

If you love horse riding, explore the countryside on the back of a local breed of horse on a 3 hour experience.

Day Tours – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including Seville. Choose from a Cathedral and Giralda skip the line ticket, a Triana Tablao Flamenco show, or a 3-hour bike tour around the city’s highlights. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are several to book as a solo and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online.

* Check all tours, prices and availability for Seville

Best Areas To Stay in Seville

Seville is a beautiful city with many different neighbourhoods to choose from, each with its unique charm and character. Here are my recommendations for solo travellers:

Santa Cruz: This is the historic heart of Seville, full of narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and traditional Andalusian courtyards. It's a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city's main attractions, including the Cathedral and the Alcazar which are within walking distance.

El Arenal: This is the area around Seville's bullring, located just a short walk from the Cathedral. It's a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city's main sights and also want to experience the excitement of a bullfight.

Alameda: This is a trendy and bohemian neighbourhood located just north of the historic centre. It's known for its lively nightlife, street art, and alternative culture.

Nervion: This is a more modern area located just east of the historic centre. It's a great place to stay if you want to be close to Seville's main shopping streets and also want easy access to public transport.

Triana: This is Seville's traditional working-class neighbourhood, located across the river from the historic centre. It's a vibrant and lively area, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and flamenco venues.

Best Places To Stay in Seville

Seville offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. These include hotels, hostels, apartments, and guesthouses. Hotels in Seville range from luxurious five-star options to more budget-friendly choices. Hostels are a great option for solo travellers or those on a tight budget, as you can stay in a shared dorm as well as private rooms. Apartments are a good choice for those who want more space and privacy, while guesthouses and “pensiones” (family-run budget accommodation) offer a more traditional and homely experience.

Below are both my personal recommendations and recommendations from our solo female community on where to stay in Seville. For all other accommodations in Seville, click on this link. * Check prices and availability for all Seville accommodation

Lemon Garden Hostel

This helpful hostel has a pool and garden with a hammock so you can relax after a day of sightseeing. The beds are comfortable and there are lockers to store your things, and they do a cheap breakfast too. Walk from here to Plaza de Espana. Stay in an 8-bed female-only dorm or choose from a 6 or 4 bed mixed with shared bathrooms. Prices start from €21 for a bed in an 8 bed dorm.

Prices from £13 per night for a bed in a 8 bed dorm
To book, check prices or availability for Lemon Garden Hostel

Oasis Backpackers’ Palace

If you like to party and are a sociable Girl about the Globe, the Oasis Backpackers’ Palace is perfect for you. There’s a cafe and bar on the roof terrace as well as a barbecue, and a shared kitchen so you can prepare your own meals or opt for the paid breakfast. Choose from a private room or a 4, 8, 10, 12 or 14 bed mixed dorm room. The Alcazar and cathedral are just a 15 minute walk away. Prices start from €20 for a bed in a 12-bed dorm.

Prices from £16 per night for a bed in a 12 bed mixed dorm
To book, check prices or availability for Oasis Backpackers' Palace

Pensión Doña Trinidad

If you prefer to stay in a guest house instead of a hostel, this pension is located in Santa Cruz where you’ll find restaurants and bars. The rooms are quite basic but come with air conditioning. The building is very traditional and there is a lovely patio which is typically Andalusian. If you are looking for your own room at a budget cost, this is a good choice. Prices start from €30 for a single room with a private external bathroom.

Prices from £38 per night for a single room
To book, check prices or availability for Pensión Doña Trinidad

Where to Eat in Seville

Typical food and drink

It’s all about tapas in Seville. You’ll find the usual tapas suspects such as pork cheeks as well as espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas). But Seville’s signature sandwich is the serranito – a pork loin with Serano ham and pepper. They also have a montadito de pringa which is all the leftovers of puchero stew. Whisky sauces are also a local special.

Look out for their menu del dia where you can get three courses for a reasonable price (generally less than €15). Avoid the tourist spots if you can and venture down back alleys for more authentic food at a cheaper price.

Restaurants

$$ – Al Solito Posto. If you’re missing Italian food, this restaurant has your Italian classics such as pizza and pasta. Whether you order the pesto gnocchi or the fig and prosciutto ravioli, you’ll find amazing food as well as gluten-free options. Find at Alameda de Hercules 16.

$$ – Taj Mahal. For a good curry, spend an evening at this Indian restaurant. It’s next to the Seville train station so a bit of a way out of the centre but good if you are coming in or leaving by train. They also cater for vegetarians. If you prefer a lunch here they have a menu del dia during the week for just €10. Find at Calle Juan Antonio Cavestany 12.

Restaurants For Typical Cuisine

$ – Hijos de E. Morales. This traditional tapas restaurant has been owned by the same family since the 19th century. Wine bottles and mosaic tiles line the walls as well as giant barrels. The restaurant has a great atmosphere with friendly waiters who will help you order if you can’t decide what tapas to choose. A good selection of tapas from pork cheek to chicharrones. Find at c/ Garcia de Vinuesa 11.

$ – Taberna Aguilas. This is more of a bar than an actual restaurant but it serves typical cuisine such as tapas dishes as well as beans, ham and poached egg. Inside is a bit quirky with a bike and crocodile on the wall amongst colourful paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The staff can speak a little bit of English if you need some translation. Find at Calle Aguilas 10.

$ – Bodeguita Romero. Popular with the locals, you’ll find all your usual suspects here such as pork cheeks, gazpacho, and their famous Montaditas (small Spanish sandwiches). It’s not that big but they also have tables outside. Don’t forget to check out the tiles along the bar depicting bygone times and the excellent wine. Find at c/ Harinas 10.

Vegetarian Restaurants Seville

$ – Organic’s. Serving Mediterranean, healthy food. If you’re unsure what to choose the staff speak English and know all about their food. You can even see the food being prepared and cook fresh from your seat. Choose from tapas or dishes such as a veggie burger. Organics is an economical place to have lunch or an early dinner. Find at Calle Jose de Velilla 3.

$$ – Restaurante Ecovegetariano Gaia. Tucked away in a side street, this vegan restaurant has a big menu to choose from. The staff are really helpful and friendly and can speak English. They also have gluten-free options as well as vegan chocolate cake. Find at Calle Luis de Vargas 4.

Enjoy a Coffee and Cake

La Cacharreria – Perfect for brunch, it may be small but this rustic cafe has so much atmosphere and excellent coffee. Stay for a bagel or enjoy a smoothie and a slice of cake (the Ferrero Rocher cake is gorgeous). Warning – you may want to eat everything on the menu. Find at Calle Regina 14.

Torch Coffee Roasters – If you like your coffee in a stylish environment with lots of space, this cafe is great. Near the river, it offers proper coffee and tea (and the smoothies aren’t bad either). The menu is in Spanish but the good- looking waiters are on hand to explain it. Find at Paseo Las Delicias 3.

Street Food – You’ll find international street food inside the Feria market so you can taste culinary delights from Japan, Mexico or obviously Spain at a cheaper cost.

Seville Bars

If you’ve ever wanted to try snails, get yourself down to Alfalfa Square where you can enjoy a snail and a beer in one of the bars.

If you are looking for the original flamenco experience, Tablao Flamenco El Arenal is a great option especially if you want to go to a bar in the evening but feel awkward about being alone. Drink vino, listen to the singers and watch the amazing dancers. It does get crowded so go early if you can.

Bar Panoramico la Terraza de EME is expensive but the view is definitely worth it. If you like roof tops bars this is a great one. The cocktails are good and you may meet other tourists who also come for the view. It is an ideal spot for the evenings.

The Second Room has excellent cocktails and comfy sofas so you can feel relaxed whilst choosing one of their very cool cocktails. Plus they also have an outside terrace to do some people watching.

Things To Do in Seville At Night

In The Evenings

If you like watching movies, you can watch one on a giant screen at the Summer Cinema. It’s a good place to meet others before or after the screenings too as the courtyard has a bar to socialise in.

Hang out at La Alameda Square to see impromptu flamenco performances at night, or pay for a performance at the Flamenco museum, but they do sell out fast so pre-book so you won’t be disappointed.

From the Triana Bridge at night, the city looks beautiful. Take a stroll across the bridge for a different perspective of the city.

Party GatG

As with the rest of Spain, the nightlife doesn’t really get going until midnight so expect to be out late if you decide to go dancing. Triana Island is known for its trendy nightlife but if you prefer some company on a nightlife tour, join the Pubcrawl Seville which goes to three bars and one club.

Where To Meet Others

In Alamillo Park (next to Isla Magica). If you visit during the summer you’ll find all kinds of activities happening such as music concerts and fairs. You could even find yourself sitting with the locals and watching a puppet show.
Join the locals and go “tapas surfing.” Pick a tapas bar then another one and see who you meet along the way.

Getting Around Seville

As with most places in Spain, Seville is easily walkable as most of the landmarks are within walking distance of each other. There is a large pedestrian area too. But when you don’t want to walk anymore there are plenty of other options to get around.

The tram runs from the centre of the city to San Bernardo train station. Trams start at 6am and run until 1.30am. You buy your ticket from the machine at the station.
There is also a metro system which has selected hours on the weekends and costs approx €1.30 per trip.
Buses run from 6am to 11.15pm and you can buy tickets onboard or get the Target Multiviaje which is a rechargeable card with a minimum of €7. A single trip costs approx €1.50.
Taxi fares start at €3.00 so be careful you don’t get charged the tourist price.
Check here for more details on how to get around.

From Seville Airport To City Centre

There is a bus which runs from Seville airport to the city centre and takes 30 minutes. It runs from 04.30 until 00.15 every day and also vice versa from the city to the airport. Take Line EA from outside the terminal and just buy your ticket from the driver. A single costs €4 and a return €6. A taxi will set you back approximately €25.

Travelling Onwards

Seville is a good base to explore the rest of Andalusia. See Malaga, Granada or Córdoba from here or visit Jerez and Cadiz. The Seville train station (Sevilla Santa Justa) is one of the busiest in Spain and serves the AVE and RENFE trains. You can also reach Madrid in less than three hours on a high speed train.

If you want to save money on your transport and have more time than money then the buses are a good option. They run to most of the major cities and leave from either the Plaza de Armas bus or Prado de San Sebastian station. Use Rome2Rio for your onward journey.

* Search for flights, trains and buses in Seville

My Verdict

Is Seville good for solos? Yes. That's why I've given it 5 out of 5 stars. I spent 4 nights here and loved it. It feels so safe and there are many day and night tours to meet other solos. It's such a pretty city and easily walkable too.

1 thought on “Solo Travel in Seville”

Kaylhan February 16, 2022 at 20:09
Do you recommend an 18 year old young woman to travel alone to Seville? My parents are against it but it is something I want to experience. I already bought my ticket. I am studying abroad in the UK now.
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Girl about the Globe

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Solo Travel in Seville