An Epic First Timer’s Guide For Solo Travel in Seville, Spain

Seville, Spain, has become a very popular destination for solo travelers, and for a good reason. It is more affordable than places like Copenhagen, and unlike places like Dublin, the weather is pretty awesome most of the year. 

Seville, a southern city in Spain’s Andalucia region, offers some of the best Moorish architecture, multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, delicious tapas, and swanky boutique hotels. 

It’s also a safe destination for women traveling alone, like me! As you can see, I believe Seville is an excellent choice for solo travelers exploring Spain.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my experiences visiting Seville solo, along with tips to ensure your trip flows smoother than the sangria I enjoyed while there.

If You Are Hesitant to Travel Alone to Seville…

For anyone reading this who might be feeling a little anxious about visiting Seville solo, I get it. 

I first started traveling solo in my thirties, and Seville was a place I visited when I first got started. Now in my 40’s, I returned and found it is still a wonderful place to visit alone. 

Traveling alone in a country where you don’t speak the language can be a little unnerving, but I promise it will be ok. The people in Seville are friendly and helpful, even with a little language barrier.

Solo travel has the power to strengthen your inner confidence and instill courage deep within you, which can have lasting effects on your whole life. 

What I enjoyed most about being alone in Seville was that it was a lot less overwhelming than other hot spots in Spain, such as Madrid and Barcelona. 

While there are many things to do in Seville, most are concentrated in one area, which is great if you are new to solo traveling. 

FREE Solo Travel Course: Get solo travel ready in 7 days with my free course!

Is it “Sevilla” or “Seville”? How to Say It Correctly

The city’s name is “Sevilla” in Spanish, but in English, it is commonly called “Seville.” Both names are correct, depending on the language you are using.

Pronunciation:

• In Spanish: “Sevilla” is pronounced as seh-VEE-yah.
• In English: “Seville” is typically pronounced as suh-VIL.

When speaking Spanish or when in Spain, it’s more respectful and accurate to use “Sevilla” and its Spanish pronunciation.

However, when speaking English, “Seville” and its English pronunciation are perfectly acceptable.

Learn some simple Spanish phrases with the Babbel app!

Where is Seville & How Many Days Do You Need?

Located in southern Spain, Seville is approximately 300 miles from Madrid and around 125 miles from Faro, Portugal. 

If you’re traveling from the United States, you may find it challenging to get a direct flight to Seville and will likely need to connect through a city like Lisbon or Barcelona.

I recommend spending three full days and nights in Seville so that you can explore the sites at a leisurely pace. 

You could even squeeze in a full-day trip to Granada if you plan accordingly! 

How Safe is Seville for Solo Females? 

Safety is my number one concern when traveling alone in Europe. If the city doesn’t have a great safety report, I simply don’t go. I’m not interested in looking over my shoulder. 

According to Numebo, Seville is rated very well statistically. The chart below shows that the number of violent crimes and crimes involving robbery or mugging is very low. 

Now, this doesn’t mean leaving your items unattended or through all common sense out the window. 

This simply means you can feel pretty damn good about exploring Seville by yourself!

Quick Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

1. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Don’t drink too much! I limit my intake to 2 drinks max when traveling alone. Not only do you want to be vigilant, but you also don’t want to be hungover the next day.
2. Map Out Your Route Ahead of Time: Plan your routes in advance so you don’t have to navigate unfamiliar areas on the fly. This reduces the risk of getting lost or wandering into unsafe neighborhoods.
3. Keep Important Information Written Down: Have a copy of important numbers and locations (like your hotel) written down somewhere other than your phone and keep it on you. This is crucial in case your phone dies or gets lost.
4. Stay Connected: Regularly check in with someone back home, whether it’s a friend, family member, or another trusted person. Share your travel itinerary, and ensure they can reach you. Daily check-in time can help ensure someone knows if something goes wrong.
5. Blend In: Avoid drawing attention to yourself as a tourist. Dress like a local if possible, and be mindful of cultural norms in your destination. This can help you avoid becoming a target for scams or theft. Oh, and ladies, leave the designer bags at home.
6. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut. Whether it’s a situation, a person, or a place, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from it. Your instincts are often your best defense.
7. Keep Valuables Hidden: Don’t flash expensive items like jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash. Use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables close to your body and out of sight.

How to Get To & Around in Seville

If you are arriving at Sevilla-San Pablo Airport airport, you have a couple of options for getting to the city center.

The city center is located 10 kilometers (northeast) away, about a 30-minute drive away. 

Taxi / Uber

The cost of a taxi to my hotel, right in the center, was 35 euros. That’s not too bad, in my opinion.

But it is an opportunity to save money by taking public transit if you are traveling on a budget. 

I didn’t have any unlicensed drivers approach me asking if I wanted a ride. The taxis are safe and well-marked when you come out of the airport.

Good to Know: An airport pick-up service such as Welcome Picks costs a little less than a taxi. I booked a ride for 25 euros!

Public transportation

I use public transport often, but I am very comfortable traveling alone now.

*NOTE, if you are new to traveling alone, I ALWAYS recommend that you skip taking public transportation on arrival, especially if: 

• You have been traveling for more than 6 hours and are jet-lagged.
• Taking public transportation isn’t something that you normally do in your daily life.
• You have a lot of luggage. 
• It’s late at night.

Train

You want to find the Line C-1 (Cercanías Renfe). The train station is conveniently located just a 5-10 minute walk from the airport arrivals terminal.

The journey to the city centre takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Trains operate from 5:30 AM to midnight, with intervals of 20-30 minutes between trains.

A single ticket costs around €4.00-5.00, which can be purchased from vending machines or at customer service counters.

Be sure to check the train schedule in advance, validate your ticket before boarding, and keep an eye on your belongings.

While the train is a fast and convenient option with frequent service, it can become crowded during peak times and offers limited space, especially for those with a lot of luggage.

Bus

The AE (Especial Aeropuerto) bus line offers a direct service from Seville Airport to the city centre.

The bus terminal is located just a few minutes’ walk from the airport terminal, making it easy to find. The journey to the city centre typically takes 25-35 minutes.

Buses run frequently, especially during peak times, with intervals of 15-20 minutes. A single ticket costs around €4.00-5.00, which can be purchased at ticket counters, vending machines, or directly on the bus (it’s recommended to have the exact amount in cash).

Be sure to check bus timetables, follow airport signs to locate the bus stop, and keep a close eye on your belongings during the trip.

The bus is an affordable and convenient option with regular service, but be aware that it can get crowded during peak hours, and delays may occur, making the journey less comfortable. This isn’t an ideal way to start your solo trip to Seville. 

What is Seville Known For? 

Seville is basically the heart and soul of southern Spain. It’s known for its super chill vibes, flamenco that’ll make you want to dance (or at least tap your foot), and tapas bars on every corner where you can snack your way through the day. 

The city’s got a lot of history that you can literally see everywhere—from the stunning architecture like the Alcázar and the Seville Cathedral (where, fun fact, Columbus is buried) to these narrow, winding streets that are perfect for getting lost in. 

Plus, Seville’s got that perfect mix of old-school charm and modern energy, making it the place where you can spend all day soaking up the culture and living it up all night. It’s the kind of city that just feels alive, you know?

Things to Do Alone in Seville 

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As I mentioned before, you want to spend at least three days in the city if you want to squeeze in a day trip, but you could get away with two days if that’s all you have. 

Below is a list of all those must-see attractions you see everyone posting about on Instagram. 

Seville Cathedral + La Giralda Tower

Visiting the Seville Cathedral, officially called Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, is a total must when you’re in the city.

It’s massive and dripping with history. Plus, the Giralda Tower is right there, perfect for catching epic views of Seville.

The cathedral is open most days, usually from 10:45 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary depending on the day, so it’s a good idea to double-check before you go.

Entry will cost you around €10-12, but trust me, it’s worth every cent. If you want to get the Skip the Line Ticket now, click here.

One thing to note: there’s a dress code, so you can’t just roll in wearing whatever you want. Shoulders and knees must be covered, so no tank tops or short shorts. But don’t stress if you forget—they sell a shawl for 4€ to cover up if needed right at the ticket booth. So, just keep that in mind, and you’ll be good to go!

The Tower 

When I visited the tower, I was pleasantly surprised to find that to get to the top, you walk an inclined pathway rather than a narrow staircase.

It was more manageable to climb to the top than other churches I have visited in the past. 

You can spend as much time as you want at the top; I would say I stay about 10-15 minutes. 

Should You Get Tickets Ahead of Time? Probably. I visited in August, which is the low season, so I didn’t need to get tickets ahead of time. But if I were on a tight schedule or visiting in high season, I would absolutely do it. Tickets

The Real Alcazar

You’ll also want to visit the Real Alcazar when visiting Seville. The Real Alcázar is still used by the Spanish royal family, particularly as their official residence in Seville when they visit the city. 

The palace is famous for its lush gardens and incredibly detailed architecture, showcasing a blend of styles, including Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. 

Plus, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll totally geek out knowing they filmed some scenes here—it’s basically the city of Dorne come to life.

The Alcázar is open most days from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, but it’s smart to book your tickets online ahead of time because this place gets busy. 

Tickets usually cost €13-15, and if you want to learn more about the history, you can opt for an audio guide or a guided tour.

The dress code is not as strict as that of the cathedral, so if you are visiting on separate days, you do not have to worry about the shawl. Just wear some comfy shoes and get ready to explore one of Seville’s most iconic spots!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TICKETS: If you decide not to purchase tickets online, you must have your Passport or ID at the ticket office. Have a look at the notice below. Skip the Line Tickets + Guide.

María Luisa Park & Plaza de Espana

Another one of Seville’s iconic tourist attractions is the Plaza de Espana, which is located the furthest from the city’s core center, but only by 20 minutes’ walking distance. 

Plaza de España is one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks, located within María Luisa Park. It was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, a world fair showcasing Spain’s technology and culture.

The plaza is a massive, semi-circular complex featuring a stunning mix of Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival (also known as Neo-Mudéjar) architectural styles.

The centerpiece is a large, open square surrounded by a grand building with curved colonnades, a central fountain, and a canal where rowboats can be rented.

The building itself is decorated with colorful ceramic tiles representing different provinces of Spain, making it a beautiful and symbolic tribute to the entire country.

Plaza de España is not just a tourist spot but also a favorite hangout for locals, and it’s often featured in films—most notably, as the palace on Naboo, in Star Wars: Episode II—Attack of the Clones.

It’s free to visit, but you must pay to ride on one of the little boats.

Watch the Sunset at Las Setas

If you want one of the most incredible views of Seville with a sunset backdrop, you want to get yourself to the Las Setas!

*But learn from my epic mistake and book tickets in advance!

On my most recent trip to Seville, I learned about the Las Setas, officially known as Metropol Parasol. It is a modern architectural landmark that looks like a giant wooden structure with mushroom-like shapes, which is why it gets its nickname “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms). 

Located in Plaza de la Encarnación, this structure is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and was completed in 2011.

After seeing some reels on Instagram, I thought I would visit on my last night in Seville. I showed up about 10 minutes before the sunset was set to start, expecting I could just go to the top. 

Spoiler alert: It didn’t work out for me. The tickets were sold out until 10 p.m., well after the sunset. While there is a light show that makes it worth visiting after the sunset, I skipped it. To be safe, get tickets online here at least a day before visiting. 

Visit the Casa de Pilatos 

If you are a place lover, be sure to check out this stunning 16th-century palace. It’s famous for its beautiful blend of Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudéjar architecture. 

The Casa de Pilatos is one of the best-preserved aristocratic mansions in the city and is considered a prime example of an Andalusian palace.

The palace features intricate tile work, elegant courtyards, lush gardens, and a collection of Roman sculptures and artwork that are incredible to see up close. It’s also said to have inspired some of the design elements in Seville’s Royal Alcázar.

Casa de Pilatos is located in the historic center of Seville, specifically in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, at Plaza de Pilatos, 1. 

Ticket prices are generally around €10 for a full palace tour, including the upper floors, or about €8 for access to the ground floor and gardens only. There are usually discounts available for students, seniors, and children.

The opening hours typically are as follows:

• Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October to March)
• Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (April to September)

Venture across the river and visit the Mercado de Triana

If eating is on your top list of things to do alone in Seville, I suggest venturing across the river and visiting the Mercado de Triana. 

The market itself was built on the site of an old castle, which I think is pretty cool. This indoor market hall is air-conditioned and filled with stalls selling all sorts of tapas, meats, fish, and cheeses. 

Oh yes, and there is some delicious Spanish wine ; ) 

Visit Seville’s Museums

• Museo del Baile Flamenco: Get your flamenco fix—music, dancing, and cool exhibits all in one spot.
• Museo de Bellas Artes: Art lovers, this is your jam. Think stunning paintings and sculptures in a beautiful old building. Admission is FREE. Tuesday to Friday, 11 am to 7.30 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 7.30 pm, Monday: closed.
• Archivo de Indias: History buffs, this one’s for you. Dive into Spain’s colonial past with some epic documents. Admission is FREE. Tuesday – Saturday: from 9:30 am to 4:45 pm.
  Sundays and public holidays: from 10 am to 1:45 pm
• Hospital de los Venerables: Small but mighty—check out Baroque art in this former hospital-turned gallery. Entrance is 12€ for adults. Monday to Saturday 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday 10 am to 3 pm.

Make a short stop at Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza

If you have the time, I recommend making a short stop at the historic bullfighting ring known as the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza. 

You can take a self-guided tour through this incredible building of Baroque vibes for an admission price of 10 € or a guided tour, by reservation only, for 25€. 

Open daily (except holidays) from 9:30 am to 19:30. 

Bullfighting occurs during the Feria de Abril, which runs throughout the year until September and is usually held on Sundays.

Special Event Ticket prices can range from €20 to several hundred euros, depending on the event.

Watch a Flamenco Show

If you want to participate in the city’s history, go to a flamenco show. Seville is the birthplace of flamenco, so you’re literally in the best place to experience it.

The energy, the passion, the music—it’s all on another level here. 

I recommend going to this place for only 25€!

Join an Organized Day Trip to Granada or Cordoba

When you have more than a couple of days in Seville, a good way to spend your time is by venturing out on a day trip to either Granada or Cordoba.

If you are comfortable navigating the transit system yourself, you could take the train to either city and explore.

The direct train to Cordoba takes under an hour, while the train to Granada takes just under three hours.

With an organized tour of Granada, you can cover more ground conveniently without stressing about logistics.

Tickets for Seville to Granada Tour & Ticket for Seville to Corboda Tour.

Tours in Seville for Solo Travelers

Not all tours allow you to book for one person, but these specific tours I recommend do!! 

• Food Tour– A great way to connect with other travelers and eat your way through the city is by joining a food tour. I always learn way more about the city on a tour than I do on my own reading plaques and information posters. This tour is great because you can join as a single traveler. 
• Bike Tour—If you want to cover a lot of ground in a short time, I always recommend joining a tour. This one is perfect for solo travelers because it’s also super cheap! In three hours, you will cover all the major sites in the city! 
• Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcazar guided tour—See all major sites with a guide and skip the line! This is a great option for any new solo traveler! 

Top Places to Eat Alone in Seville

Eating is one of my reasons to travel, and when I first started solo traveling, I struggled with the idea of dining alone.

The idea of me sitting alone in a restaurant would make me uncomfortable. But in Seville, these traditional restaurants are so casual, lively, and informal that it was easy!

Traditional Tapas: 

• Casa Morales: One of the oldest tapas bars in Seville, located close to the Cathedral, famous for its old wine vats and traditional Sevillian tapas. The English menu is very hard to read. I recommend the Potatos Bravas, Tortilla and Sangria!
• Bodega Santa Cruz (Las Columnas): A classic spot near Seville Cathedral, known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional tapas like montaditos and fried seafood.
• La Bartola: A modern take on tapas with beautifully presented dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, while still offering traditional flavors.
• Bodeguita Romero: Known for its famous montadito de pringá and other hearty traditional dishes like slow-cooked pork cheek (carrillada).

Fancy Tapas:

• Petit Comité: This elegant spot blends the charm of a Parisian bistro with innovative tapas, offering dishes like beef tataki and cod with aioli in a fine-dining setting. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more refined tapas experience.
• El Pintón: Set in a picturesque location, El Pintón offers a chic dining experience with a menu that features modern tapas with a twist, such as salmon tartare and Iberian pork.
• La Azotea: Known for its seasonal menu and passion for high-quality ingredients, La Azotea is a favorite for modern tapas. The dishes often include creative seafood options and are best enjoyed in their original bar location.

Upscale Restaurants:

• Restaurante De La O: One of my favorite meals was at Restaurante De La O! You should get reservations and sit outside to view the Guadalquivir River. Restaurante De La O offers a modern take on Andalusian cuisine, with dishes like oxtail ravioli and innovative seafood creations highlighting the menu. I got the “cupcake” and delicious tuna tarte with olive oil ice cream.
• Abantal: As Seville’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Abantal is the epitome of fine dining. The menu seamlessly blends traditional Andalusian flavors with cutting-edge techniques, offering exquisite dishes like smoked eel with beetroot. The minimalist decor and exceptional service elevate the entire dining experience.
• La Lola: La Lola offers a contemporary twist on traditional Andalusian cuisine. The chic, modern decor perfectly complements a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients presented with flair. Signature dishes like Iberian pork cheeks and cod confit stand out. With its relaxed yet refined atmosphere, La Lola is ideal for those looking to explore modern Seville dining in a stylish setting.

Tips For eating tapas in Seville:

• Expect to eat late. Lunch is from 2-4 p.m., and dinner starts late, typically 8 p.m., with the busiest times at 9 p.m. Some places open at 7 p.m., but not many.
• Don’t always order Sangria; it can be the most expensive. Instead, order at Tinto de Verano or a local wine.
• Not every establishment will take credit cards, though most do. Just have cash in case. Tipping is not customary; it is customary to round up to the nearest Euro.
• Don’t assume the bread they bring is free. If you aren’t interested, just tell them not to leave it.

Where to Stay in Seville

I am passionate about choosing the best neighborhoods and accommodations as a solo traveler.

Your environment can impact your experience, and I found that if I am alone, the more comfortable the accommodations, the better. 

This might mean spending a little more money, but having the best experience is priceless. 

*If you are visiting Seville in the summer, I highly recommend splurging on a hotel with a pool! I used the pool at my hotel everyday!

Neighborhoods to Consider in Seville. 

• Santa Cruz: The heart of the old town, full of charming, narrow streets, historic sites, and tons of tapas bars. Perfect for soaking in Seville’s history and atmosphere.
• Triana: Across the river, this neighborhood is famous for its flamenco roots and vibrant local culture. A great spot for authentic vibes and lively nightlife.
• El Arenal: Close to the river and the bullring, this area has a mix of history and modern life. It’s ideal if you want to be near major attractions like the Plaza de Toros and the Cathedral.
• Alameda de Hércules: A trendy, bohemian neighborhood with lots of cafes, bars, and art spaces. Perfect if you’re into a more laid-back, artsy vibe.
• La Macarena: Known for its local feel and the iconic Basilica de la Macarena. It’s a bit quieter and less touristy, but still close enough to the action.
• San Bartolomé: The San Bartolomé neighborhood is adjacent to Santa Cruz and shares its historic atmosphere but with a slightly quieter, more residential feel. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and proximity to both Santa Cruz and the commercial center of Seville.

Hotels I recommend with pools

1. Gran Meliá Colón (El Arenal)
2. Hotel Alfonso XIII (Santa Cruz)
3. EME Catedral Mercer Hotel (Santa Cruz)
4. Hotel Palacio de Villapanés (San Bartolomé)

Scams to watch out for in Seville. 

One common scam in Seville involves ladies offering you a sprig of rosemary. They’ll approach you in touristy areas, acting all friendly, and try to hand you the rosemary “for luck.”

Once you take it, they’ll suddenly demand money, sometimes becoming pushy or aggressive. The best way to avoid this is to just politely decline and keep walking.

Aside from that, Seville is generally safe, but like in any popular tourist destination, keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Just be aware of your surroundings, and you should be good to go!

How Expensive is Seville?  

Overall, I found Seville to be pretty affordable, especially for a solo traveler. Filling up on some cheap tapas and sangria was my go-to, and you can easily have a great meal without breaking the bank. 

You have a lot of control of your budget when choosing accommodations. Expect a range from budget options €75 per night to more upscale boutique hotels 175€ per night. 

Plus, many main attractions, like strolling through the beautiful streets, visiting the markets, or enjoying a flamenco show, won’t cost you a fortune.

Even entry fees to major sites like the cathedral or the Alcázar are reasonably priced. 

All in all, Seville offers a lot of bang for your buck, making it a great destination if you’re watching your wallet but still want to have an amazing experience.

Where Should You Go After Seville? 

Do you have some extra time to keep your solo adventure going? If so, I highly recommend making the quick two-hour trip to Faro, Portugal!

It’s another fantastic spot for solo travelers—safe, full of fun things to do, and packed with delicious food.

Plus, if you’re visiting in the warmer months, you’ll love that Faro is right on the coast. And don’t miss the nearby town of Tavira, which is also a perfect place to explore.

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