No car? No worries! Although Seville is not a coastal city, there are plenty of easy options to get you from Seville to the beach by public transport, and I’m going to tell you exactly how to do it.

The afternoon heat in the city on any given day during July and August (and sometimes May, June, and September, too!) is no joke. Yes, while Seville is a beautiful city to visit, the summers can be long and intense. And with high temperatures (sometimes both day and night!), it’s easy to understand why one of the most popular summer activities for both locals and visitors alike is a trip to the beach!

So whether you are living in the city or just visiting during the hottest months of the year, I’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you and created this guide to getting from Seville to the beach by public transport. May your summers in Seville be filled with sun, sand, and tinto de veranos on the water’s edge!

Planning your trip to the beach

How far in advance to book your tickets online?

Depending on what journey you are making, depends on how far ahead you should book the tickets:

• Trains: Train tickets are released 62 days in advance (and 90 days in advance for the high-speed AVE train, although this service doesn’t operate between Seville and the beach town of Cádiz). So if you are heading to Cádiz, you’ll be able to book 62 days out.
• Buses to the Huelva province: These are the buses operated by Damas and tickets are available for purchase 1 month prior.
• Buses to the Cádiz province: These are the buses operated by TG Comes and they are available for purchase 2 weeks prior.

So you don’t need to go scrolling up and down, I’ve noted how far ahead you can buy the tickets for each option below. Also, even though you can’t buy the tickets further ahead you can still get an idea of timings during your trip planning stage by looking at current schedules (rather than your exact date or travel, in the case you are planning a trip awhile before).

Can you use a foreign card to book Spanish trains and buses online?

The short answer is YES you can. The long answer is that many people have reported that they have trouble booking trains directly on the local Renfe (train) website, as well as directly on some bus companies’ websites when using a non-Spanish card… not to mention the language barrier with some bus companies not offering an English option.

If you are using a foreign card, I recommend using Omio which is an international platform for a wide range of different transport options. It’s also a comparison site, so you can see all the options available for your journey – trains, buses, and even rideshare (Blablacar). I usually use Omio myself for booking trains and buses in Spain and abroad!

Most of these transport options below are available to be booked on the Omio website. In any case, I have provided the best option for buying tickets for each journey on a case by case basis so that you end up in the right place to book that specific journey.

Some useful words to help you navigate booking online

While Omio is available in English, some local booking sites are not so here is some vocab that will help you to make your booking.

• Origen = Origin/starting point
• Destino = Desination/ending point
• Ida = Outbound journey
• Vuelta = Return journey
• Fecha = Date
• Buscar = Search
• Estación = Station
• Tren/trenes =Train/trains
• Autobus/autobuses = Bus/buses

Where are the bus and train stations in Seville?

Seville has three different places where buses and trains to destinations outside the city leave from.

Train: Santa Justa Station

This is the main train station in Seville and is located a little bit outside the city centre. Depending on where you are in the centre, it’s about a 20 to 30 minute walk, otherwise, the number 27 bus departs from Plaza del Duque de la Victoria, stopping along Calle Imagen (by Las Setas) and Plaza Ponce de León, and drops you right in front of the train station. Otherwise, a taxi will set you back about €10 to €15.

Bus: Plaza de Armas

This is the main bus station located by the river, just on the edge of the Arenal neighbourhood and within walking distance from the city centre. Buses to and from the airport also stop at this bus station. Most of the Alsa buses arrive at and depart from this station.

Bus: Prado de San Sebastián

This is a smaller bus station in the San Bernardo neighbourhood. Located next to Maria Luisa Park, it’s an easy walk from the city centre or you can take either the tram starting in Plaza Nueva or the metro from Puerta Jerez, both of which have stops next to the bus station. Most of the buses to the Cádiz province depart from here.

How to get from Seville to the beach by public transport

How to get from Seville to Matalascañas

The closest and most accessible beach from Seville by bus is Matalascañas beach. The most direct bus will have you laying out your towel and dipping your toes in the cool water within an hour after leaving. This is one of the most popular options for locals going to spend the day at the beach, especially on the weekends in summer when everyone is escaping the heat, so make sure you book your tickets online in advance.

• Departing from: Plaza de Armas bus station
• Transport Company: Damas
• When: Twice daily
• Journey Length: 1-2 hours, depending on other stops
• Cost: About €8 each way
• Tickets: Buy tickets to Matalascañas here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 1 month prior

How to get from Seville to Cádiz

If you prefer to travel by train, Cádiz – and its beaches! – is the place for you. This is one of the most popular beaches near Seville due to the easy journey to get there, and the opportunity to gaze out the window at the ever-changing landscapes.

Most people get off at the main Cádiz station, which is just a short stroll from the city centre and perfect if you want to Caleta beach or to look around the city. However some (not all!) trains also make an extra stop beforehand at Cádiz Estadio, another station located below the Cádiz football stadium, which is only a five minute walk from Victoria beach, a long stretch of beach that’s popular in the summer.

• Departing from: Santa Justa train station (also stops at the smaller San Bernardo train station)
• Transport Company: Renfe
• When: Every 1 to 2 hours throughout the day, check the schedule here
• Journey Length: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Cost: €17 one way, €27 return
• Tickets: Buy tickets to Cádiz here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 62 days prior

How to get from Seville to Conil de la Frontera and surrounding beaches

The charming town of Conil de la Frontera has many beautiful surrounding beaches, many of them popular with sevillanos in the summer.

For the beaches in the town of Conil de la Frontera, Los Bateles and Fontanilla, you just get off at Conil de la Frontera’s bus station and from there it is a short stroll down through the town to the beach.

For the calas; sandy cove beaches nestled amongst the cliffs, you will need to change at the Conil de la Frontera bus station and take the local bus line 2, which, as well as stopping at the town’s beaches, continues along the coast. Get off at Urbanización Fuente Sol and from there you can walk to various different calas, the closest being Cala del Puntalejo and Cala Camacho, which are both within 5 minutes walk.

• Departing from: Prado de San Sebastián bus station
• Transport Company: TG Comes
• When: Four times per day, check the schedule here
• Journey Length: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost: €17 each way
• Tickets: Buy tickets to Conil de la Frontera here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 2 weeks prior

For the local bus, check out this website for more information about the current bus times. You pay the driver in cash, the ticket costs €1.25.

How to get from Seville to El Palmar, Los Caños de Meca, Zahara de los Atunes and Atlanterra

If you want beautiful beaches, cool vibes and a relaxing summer’s day, I recommend jumping on the bus and heading to one of these great beaches. The bus runs along the Costa de Luz in the Cádiz province stopping at each of these beaches on the way.

While El Palmar and Los Caños de Meca are two of my favourite beaches near Seville, there is one catch: this bus only stops at El Palmar and Los Caños de Meca on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the summer season (roughly the months of June, July and August) and is extremely popular as well as being limited, so make sure you buy your tickets in advance!

During the week, outside the summer months, or if the bus is full, you can head to Conil de la Frontera (as per the information above) and get a local bus to your chosen destination (more information below).

• Departing from: Prado de San Sebastián bus station
• Transport Company: TG Comes
• When: Once per day to Zahara de Los Atunes and Atlanterra (only stops at El Palmar & Los Caños in the summer months on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays), check the schedule here
• Journey Length: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Cost: €17 to €21 each way
• Tickets: Buy tickets to El Palmar, Los Caños de Meca, Zahara de los Atunes or Atlanterra here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 2 weeks prior

How to get from Seville to Punta Umbria

Popular with sevillanos in the summer, another easily accessible beach close to Seville is Punta Umbria, located next to the city of Huelva with a large stretch of golden sand and blue water.

• Departing from: Plaza de Armas bus station
• Transport Company: Damas
• When: Multiple departures daily, check the schedule here
• Journey Length: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost: €10 each way
• Tickets: Buy tickets to Huelva here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 1 month prior

Once you have arrived in Huelva, you will need to change for the local bus to Punta Umbria. These depart every hour on the hour from the Huelva bus station and the journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes. The bus is number 301 (you can see the schedule and route here) and you pay in cash to the driver.

How to get from Seville to Chipiona

At just over two hours from Seville and a return ticket costing less than 20€, a day trip to the beach in Chipiona is a great option for anyone visiting Seville in the summer. Beach lovers can hit the long coast of beaches hugging the town centre, or curious souls can wander around the sights of Chipiona, making this small fishing town a wonderful beach break for everyone!

• Departing from: Prado de San Sebastián bus station
• Transport Company: TG Comes
• When: Multiple departures daily, check the schedule here
• Journey Length: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Cost: €10 each way
• Tickets: Buy tickets to Chipiona here
• When are tickets available for purchase: 2 weeks prior

Going from Seville to the beach with Blablacar

If you’ve got to the end of all this information and are now thinking that it all sounds like a lot of hard work and maybe you’re better off finding another way to cool off in Seville without leaving the city or, even worse, gritting and bearing the hot summer days and going sightseeing instead, don’t worry – there is one more solution!

Blabla car is a ridesharing service where people who are making a journey in their personal car publish their journey on the website/app, and then other users can book a seat in their car for the associated cost. People usually nominate a pickup point to leave from and drop you off somewhere fairly central in the final destination, which makes it an easy and cost-effective way to get to the beach in summer.

Tips for booking a trip with Blablacar

I use Blablacar all the time, usually as a driver but sometimes as a passenger too. I love it and it’s a great way to bring down petrol costs on long drives (and have some company, too!) and I have honestly not really had any bad experiences at all. In general, people who use a ride-sharing service seem to be friendly, open, and happy to meet new people. That being said, there are a few tips and tricks I wanted to share about a few things I’ve observed to make your experience with Blablacar better:

• Book only a few days out: whether it’s more due to the nature of the app or Spanish culture I don’t know, but most people tend to both publish (the drivers) and book their journey (the riders) pretty close to the time. The best time to book is a few days out as you’ll see more options available for your date.
• Only chat and pay within the app – no exceptions: If anyone asks you to confirm the booking and/or pay outside the app DO NOT ride with that person. It’s a question of personal safety – keeping everything in the app where it is monitored by the company means that the person’s intentions are most likely genuine.
• Read the driver’s reviews: They are there for a reason, let them guide you and help you know you are booking with someone who is nice and a good driver!
• Check if the middle seat in the back will be occupied or not: Drivers have to state whether the middle seat will be occupied or not. If it doesn’t bother you being squashed between two strangers on a hot sweaty summer’s day then no big deal, but if your comfort is of higher priority check to see if this is the case or not!
• If you are bringing more luggage than you can fit at your feet/on your lap, make sure it’s okay with the driver before booking: This is common courtesy to the driver, they aren’t obliged to have luggage space for you and you never know what they may be travelling with.

How’d your beach trip go? Or do you have another recommendation that I’ve left off this list? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: Some of the links on my website are affiliate links which means that if you purchase anything I recommend through these links, I may get a small commission, however at no extra cost to you! Please know that everything I recommend I have personally tried and tested or are platforms that I actually use myself.

With the year-round sun as well as long and hot summers, when the weather starts heating up in Seville the best thing to do to cool off is to head to the closest beach! And fortunately, Seville has some amazing beaches all within relatively close distance to the city. Here’s a little overview of the different coastal destinations nearby as well as my top picks for the best beaches near Seville!

Which Andalusian provinces are on the coast? Not Seville!

Before going into my top picks for the best beaches near Seville, remember that Seville itself doesn’t actually have any beaches at all, so here is the low-down on the different nearby areas that do! There are four main areas with beaches near Seville that are no more than 2-3 hours drive from the city, giving you some great options for both day trips and overnight or weekend trips. While I mention all of the nearby areas here, the specific recommendations further below are all in the Huelva and Cadiz province given that these two provinces are the closest to Seville.

Cádiz

The western part of Costa de Luz in the Cadiz province, stretching from Tarifa to the west and finishing is another popular summer destination, but more laid back than the neighbouring Costa del Sol. You’ll still find a range of beaches, some more popular than others and even some totally off the beaten track, though there is one important thing to know that characterises this part of the Costa de la Luz – the wind!

The levante is the famous easterly wind that blows along the coast in Cadiz, causing high swells and a flurry of sand on the beaches. it is strongest through the Strait of Gibraltar, where Tarifa is located (Tarifa is the windsurfing capital of Europe for a reason!) but can be felt along all the beaches on a windy day. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit here (you should!) but it’s a good idea to check the weather before heading down.

Huelva

My personal favourite, Huelva has a few popular beach town areas where you’ll have restaurants and other services on or near the beach, but the best part about the Costa de la luz in Huelva is the long stretch of rugged coastline that forms a part of the Doñana National Park with many totally natural beaches where even on the busiest summer day you can find a relatively quiet piece of beach for yourself.

This is also one of the closest beach areas to Seville, meaning that you can easily justify heading down every weekend during summer if that’s what takes your fancy!

Malaga

Malaga, home to the Costa del Sol, is the most famous beach destination in Andalusia and is especially popular among British and Northern European travellers. You’ll find both Malaga city as well as popular beach resorts along the coast. With an array of different beach towns and activities, it’s a popular option among families, although the summer crowds make it the least desirable option, in my opinion.

Depedmomg where you go in Malaga you can find a bit of everything, from long sandy beaches with bustling beach towns to rocky cliff-backed bays further along the coast to the west.

Algarve, Portugal

So while not Spain, it’s actually quicker to get to the western part of the Algarve region in Portugal than it is to get to Malaga! There are no border crossing procedures nor checks, so it is super easy to pop over to the nearby beaches for the day, or even make a weekend trip out of it.

Closest to the Spanish border you’ll find long sandy beaches with beach towns that are full of places to stay (and great places to devour the amazing Portuguese seafood specialties!), with the beaches getting more rugged and wild, the further to the east you head. In fact, the far eastern part of the Algarve, around Lagos and Sagres is one of my favourite beach destinations in Europe.

The Best Beaches Near Seville

1. Bolonia Beach, Cadiz

22 kilometres away from the popular coastal town of Tarifa, and two and a half hours drive from Seville, is the beautiful Bolonia beach. Its 4 kilometres of fine white sand, crystal clear blue water, and the fact that it is somewhat sheltered from Cadiz’s strong levante wind, make it one of the best beaches near Seville for a weekend getaway.

At one end you’ve got a small town with shops, restaurants, beach bars and places to stay. And for the more adventurous types, you can walk along to the other end of the beach and climb up the 30m high and almost 200m wide sand dune where you’ll get spectacular views overlooking Bolonia beach – and even views out to Africa in the distance!

Also recommended: After you’ve finished sunning yourself on the beach, check out the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia. One of the most well-preserved examples of a Roman town, this is a total must for history lovers. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday and free for visitors from the EU (or €1.50 for non-EU visitors).

2. El Palmar, Cadiz

If I’m looking for a beach where I can go to the beach and then wander across the road to the town for a cerveza and tapa, this is my go-to place! El Palmar has a charming surfie town feel a number of surf shops, bars and shops running parallel to the beach on the other side of the road and totally comes alive in summer. The small town bustles all day long and well into the night with many cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs – there is something for everyone.

And in winter, it’s a surfer’s paradise! Whether you’re a keen surfer or a willing beginner, with multiple different surf shops along the beach-front road, it is easy to hire all the gear required to spend a day or more surfing or pick up some surf lessons.

Not to be missed: The sunsets at El Palmar are magical! Have your camera ready as the sky changes colour and the sun drops down over the ocean. Even better with a cold drink in hand! 

3. Matalascañas, Huelva

The nearest beach to Seville, Matalascañas is a favourite choice for many sevillanos to head to in the summer – I’ve heard it being referred to as the “playa de Sevilla” (Seville’s beach) more than a few times!

The quick hour-long drive or bus ride, numerous beach bars and restaurants along the seafront promenade and kilometres of fine, golden sand are what make this beach one of the best beaches near Seville. However, my personal favourite is not Matalascañas itself, but rather the neighbouring beaches between Matalascañas and Mazagón (more on that below!).

Fun Fact: The old guard tower Torre de la Higuera; one of seven defensive towers built in the 16th century by Phillip II, stands peculiarly in the water after toppling over in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.

4. Cuesta Maneli, Rompeculos and Torre de la Higuera, Huelva

If you really want to get off the beaten track and find a piece of beach for yourself even in the height of summer, one of these beaches in the Doñana National Park, in between the more popular and busier beach towns of Matalascañas and Mazagón is for you! These beaches are hands down, my favourite beaches near Seville and true hidden gems that locals love. And while not officially being dog beaches, they are all dog friendly so bring your four-legged friends along for the day!

Cuesta Maneli

If you spend long enough in Seville you’ll hear locals talk about this beach as being one of the most beautiful and best beaches to visit near to the city, but getting there it’s not for the faint-hearted. Park your car in the parking alongside the road then set off on a 15-20 minutes over the wooden boardwalk and down the sand dunes – but trust me, it’s worth it!

Torre de la Higuera

This is the busiest of the beaches mentioned here, but that’s because access to the beach is the easiest. Put “Heidi Banana” in Google Maps and it’ll take you to the beach parking for this beach. Parking is €5 a day and fills up in summer so get there early! In just a couple of minutes from the parking, you’ll be on the sand. For fewer crowds, turn right when you hit the sand and walk a few minutes along, past the boating area. The only chiringuito, Heidi Banana, is a great option for lunch and a fun place to wind down with a gin and tonic in hand as the sun is going down.

Rompeculos

Located in between the Parador and Camping Donaña, this is the next beach along from Cuesta Maneli and is for true nature lovers! like its neighbour, being totally isolated with nothing but the trees, sand and ocean around means that even on the busiest summer day you can find some peace and quiet down here. Anything goes on this beach, and if you are keen on getting totally in touch with nature, clothing is optional.

Fontanilla

Located at the far end of the national park near the other beach town, Mazagón, this is my personal favourite on the list. Why? Because its far enough away from one of the towns (in this case, Mazagón) that parking is easy and the beach doesn’t get too crowded, but the path down to the beach – while being a bush track – is shorter and easier than Rompeculos and Cuesta Maneli. Once down on the beach, the vibe is similar though, with not much apart from the beautiful nature. More fishermen do tend to frequent here, so once you hit the beach it’s worth walking 5 minutes or so to your left to get out of the main fishing area.

5. La Caleta Beach and Santa Maria del Mar, Cadiz

An easy journey by train, Cadiz is a great city to visit for a beach day and a popular option if you don’t have a car handy. Start off your morning soaking up the sun at this famous city beach La Caleta. With fishing boats bobbing gently in the water and views of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina castles, the picturesque small bay is great for the whole family with calm, shallow waters.

In the afternoon walk along the promenade (paseo del Vendaval) towards Santa Maria del Mar beach. Soft white sand and transparent water make this beach a popular option in the city and the perfect spot to spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing. As the sun begins to set, grab a table at Tirabuzón beach bar and enjoy the spectacular sunset with a beautiful view looking towards the Cadiz cathedral and old town.

And if you didn’t pack a picnic lunch, swing by my favourite seafood restaurant in the city centre, Taberna el Tío de la Tiza, but get there early! It’s definitely a local’s favourite so tables fill up pretty quickly.

6. Chipiona, Cadiz

If the sevillanos aren’t heading to Matalascanas beach, they’re on their way to Chipiona. With a beach boardwalk that follows the entirety of Chipiona’s coastline, this old fishing village is a popular summer destination.

The long white sandy beaches are perfect for both beach bums and water sports lovers with surfing, kiteboarding and sailing all activities on offer, making it one of the best beaches near Seville for all types, no matter what your interests are!

Things to do in Chipiona (aside from lazing on the beach):

• Lighthouse: Chipiona’s lighthouse is an impressive landmark of the town. At 69m tall it is the tallest lighthouse in Spain and the 3rd tallest in Europe. It is still a working lighthouse and there are guided tours available through the tourist office, where after climbing the 350 spiralling steps you are rewarded with stunning 360° panoramic views.
  
• Fishing corrals: Another must-see is the town’s famous fishing corrals, an ancient fishing technique still used in Chipiona. The corrals are man-made walls that stand 1.5 metres tall made out of stones, oysters and shellfish which capture the animals trapped by the walls when the tide goes out. At low tide, a handful of registered fishermen wade the shallow waters collecting the catch. A visit can be arranged through the tourist office.
  
• Eat the local specialities: Lastly, indulge in some of the freshest seafood in one of the small bars or local restaurants scattered throughout the white-washed walls of Chipiona’s old town or near the beach. El Faro or Casa Laura are two local institutions that are well-loved among locals for lunch, otherwise, I love heading to the Despacho de Vinos Bodega Católico Agrícola (Avendia Nuestra Señora de Regla, 12) for a glass of the local tipple, sweet Moscatel wine, paired with simple traditional tapas such as anchovies or cheese.

7. Punta Umbria, Huelva

Not too far from the city of Huelva lies Punta Umbria, a small town located next to the banks of the Odiel River and a long coastline of golden sandy beaches. Some of the best and most popular beaches near Seville are found in Punta Umbria, such as: 

Punta Umbria Beach

Close to the town centre and with an abundance of bars and restaurants along the avenue behind the beach, Punta Umbria is one of the most popular beaches in the summer. Head to the far western end near Mosquito Club, a bar on the beach sand, and you’ll find a big parking lot which costs €2 to park for 24 hours. And since you’re down that way, Mosquito Club is a fun place to catch live music and DJs in the late afternoon and evening, or simply relax with an afternoon beer, too.

Los Enebrales Beach

• Tucked away in a pine tree forest, this virgin beach is the perfect place to relax.

La Bota Beach

Another idyllic beach to relax and enjoy the sun, La Bota beach can be accessed via a path running parallel to the sea, perfect for biking or walking. There are several beach facilities and it’s popular among kitesurfers and windsurfers.

El Portil Beach

Found at the end of La Bota beach and at just 40m wide, El Portil is a small beach that stretches alongside El Portil lagoon. With remnants of old military bunkers, this natural reserve is an ideal beach to spend the day in the sun

8. Los Caños de Meca, Cadiz

Last but definitely not least, Los Caños de Meca (or simply Los Caños) is one of my favourite places to spend a weekend in summer, as well as being a beach that is near to my heart. If you blink you’ll miss this tiny and fairly unspoiled beach town, which is found a little bit further along the coast from El Palmar, but in my opinion is got exactly just what you need for a fun beach weekend away!

Set up your tent at the Camping Camaleón (you can’t book so make sure you get there early on Friday afternoon to get a spot), sip a cool manzanilla sherry poured straight from the barrel and eat the best tortilla ever in La Borracheria – my favourite little bodega found on the main road, dance the night away in one of the two chiringuitos (beach bars) on the beach – all in between beach siestas and ocean swims, of course! This truly is one of the must-see beaches near Seville, perfect for a weekend getaway!

With Seville’s city centre being pretty much entirely accessible, and amazing little towns and villages around the province that can be easily visited, it makes visiting Seville a wonderful experience! Here are my personal favourite things to do in the Seville, things that you should absolutely try to experience even if you just have a couple of days in the city.

1. Be amazed by the architecture at Plaza de España

Seeing one of Seville’s wonderful monuments absolutely has to be at the top of the list, though it may surprise you that I haven’t suggested the often talked about Cathedral or Alcazar Palace. No. My favourite monument in Seville is, hands down, Plaza de España.

This pavilion was built especially for the Ibero-American Expo that Seville hosted in 1929 and today is one of the most impressive buildings in the entire city. Walk around and appreciate the grandeur of the building, check out the mosaic tilework with each alcove representing one of Spain’s 47 provinces, or hop in a rowboat and go around the small canal.

2. Get wonderfully lost in the streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood

Seville is full of hidden corners, cobbled alleyways, and beautiful historic buildings in all of its central neighbourhoods, but perhaps the most known for this is the Santa Cruz neighbourhood. It’s the most famous for its charming streets (and yes, also the most touristic) but for a reason – it’s just so damm pretty!

While I do believe Seville’s other neighbourhoods are also worth exploring, you absolutely have to dedicate some time to getting lost in this beautiful part of the city. Put the map away, explore the streets, and see where they take you.

3. Sip on a glass of crisp, cool manzanilla sherry

Nothing says Andalusian summer like a cold glass of crisp manzanilla sherry. This light, dry and delicate flavoured sherry comes from the nearby Jerez winemaking region and is one of the most typical drinks you can find in Seville. The yeasty taste can be surprising at first, but once you get used to it, you are hooked! Trust me. Manzanilla is now even my drink of choice in places that I know don’t have the best white wine by the glass.

While most places in Seville will be happily serving manzanilla, the best is to pop into one of Seville’s historic bars and soak in the old-school vibe while you do so. A classic is El Rinconcillo, which just also happens to be the oldest bar in Seville.

4. Take a trip back in time at the Royal Alcázar Palace

The Alcázar is often mistaken for a Moorish monument, but that’s actually not quite the case. Yes, it began as a fort in the 10th century, during the Moorish reign of Seville, but was consistently renovated nad expanded over the centuries, until as recently as the 19th century. Only one patio was originally constructed by the Moors, so what stands today really is an evolution of Seville’s architecture over time. Much of the palace is Mudejar style (Moorish influence architecture built during the reign of the Christians) which explains the confusion about the history of this building.

Today it’s the oldest Royal residence still in use in Europe, and for an extra cost, you can even visit the Upper Royal Quarters; the reception rooms where the Royal family meets visitors today. Thanks to the Game of Thrones TV series using the Alcázar as a set its now more popular than ever, so book your tickets in advance if you don’t want to queue or if you want to get your hands on one of the limited tickets to visit the Upper Royal Quarters.

Hot Tip: Booking in advance is essential, so make sure you book your tickets in advance. Or for the best experience possible, join a tour and have your local guide bring the Alcázar to life for you! Book your tour here.

5. Get above the city at the top of Las Setas

Las Setas is the most modern monument we have in the city, and perhaps also the most unique. You can’t miss this interesting wooden structure looming over the top of Plaza de la Encarnación. Aside from being the newest building of note in the city, it’s also the largest wooden structure in the entire world– yep, you heard right. Made entirely of birch wood!

View it from the outside and appreciate the breath of fresh air that it has given to this part of town, with new bars, shops and cafes popping up by the minute, then catch the elevator to the top (3 euros) and get views out across the city that out-do the views from the top of the famous Giralda tower.

6. Appreciate a slice of local life in the Macarena neighbourhood

The great thing about Seville is that despite the fact the city’s economy relies heavily on tourism, it really is a local city. We share our city with visitors, and the Macarena neighbourhood to the north of the city is the best place to go to experience it.

Visit the neo-baroque Basilica de la Macarena which is home to the famous Virgin of Macarena (she’s practically the international symbol for Seville’s impressive Holy Week celebrations), take a walk down Calle Feria and pop into local shops, bars or the market or if it’s Thursday see the eccentric El Jueves flea market which takes place on the street, then wander over to the neighbouring Alameda de Hercules to find delicious tapas and a late night party atmosphere.

7. Learn about Triana and Seville’s history of ceramics

I’m not normally one for museums, but when the museum is well designed, informative, and teaches you about the life and culture of the local area, I’m all in! The Centro Ceramica de Triana is ceramic museum located in an old ceramic factory in the Triana neighbourhood.

Seville has been producing ceramics since the Roman times and this craft has been very important for the city, and above all, the people of Triana. The first floor is dedicated to the history of ceramic production and the old Santa Ana Ceramic factory (I especially love all the videos with talks from former employees of the factory), and the second level is dedicated to life in the Triana neighbourhood.

Even if you are not into art it’s really interesting, and afterwards, you can even buy authentic sevillano ceramics in the store downstairs or at Ceramica Ruiz across the road!

8. Join in the local way of life at one of Seville’s wonderful food markets

Yes, supermarkets have arrived decades ago and well and truly settled in Spain, but the wonderful truth is we have some fabulous, fully functioning fresh produce markets which are bustling with action from Monday to Saturdays (8am-2/3pm) with vendors selling their catch of the day, locals getting in there to get the freshest produce possible and locals and visitors alike often stopping by simply to be part of the buzz.

Visit the Mercado de Feria, a simple market and very authentic in Calle Feria which dates back to the 13th century, making it the oldest market in Seville, and don’t miss the wonderful Mercado de Triana which is much bigger with much more elaborate displays with more going on outside the typical market spectrum.

Read more about the different food markets in Seville here.

9. Soak in the splendour of a fiery flamenco show

Flamenco is synonymous with Spain, and with Andalusia being the birthplace of flamenco, what better place to catch a show than right here in Seville? There are several options for shows, ranging from flashy tablaos to spontaneous songs burst out in a bar, though the best option for someone visiting for a few days is to go and see a show at a place that especially puts on authentic shows.

Here you will get the best of the best– high-quality performers mixed with an authentic experience. You can read more about the best flamenco shows in Seville here, although my all-time personal favourite for an unforgettable experience is Casa de la Memoria – book your tickets here!

10. Go out for tapas!

Spain’s tapas culture has become famous worldwide and given that Seville is the tapas mecca of Spain it would be rude not to partake in eating your fair share of tapas while in the city. Whether you want to try hole in the wall taverns, simple traditional bars or modern culinary experiences, tapas come in all ways, shapes and forms in the city, so make sure you try a few different places while you are here!

For the best experience don’t go out for lunch before 1.30pm and dinner before 9pm (as some places won’t be open earlier) and take it slow. Just order a drink and a tapa or two at a time as food comes quickly and as it’s ready!

Of course, there are so many top things to do in Seville, but for a first time or fleeting visit to the city these are some experiences that I would put straight to the top of your to-do list! Have you visited Seville? Do you have any other great recommendations? Let me know all about it in the comments below!

Disclosure: Some of the links on my website are affiliate links which means that if you purchase anything I recommend through these links, I may get a small commission, however at no extra cost to you! Please know that everything I recommend I have personally tried and tested and are experiences that I really believe are great.

When I first realised I had to stop eating gluten, I thought that my love for eating breakfast out in Spain was over. Eating breakfast out is an integral part of Spanish culture and daily life, and with many breakfasts in Seville costing between €2 to €4 it means that is affordable enough to enjoy breakfast in a local bar on a regular basis. 

However, the typical breakfast in Spain is a tostada (toast) which means that you would be right to assume that this could pose problems for those who are eating a gluten free diet – especially in a city with so many traditional eating establishments! 

But as it happens, there are more and more great options for gluten free breakfast in Seville popping up all the time, you just need to know where to look. In no particular order, below is a list of my favourite places for gluten free breakfast in Seville, and beforehand, a few extra resources to help you have a safe and gluten free stay in Seville

Eating Gluten Free in Spain

Many people are surprised to find that eating gluten free in Seville and Spain is, in general, pretty easy! Celiac disease and gluten intolerance are widely recognised, and even in the smallest of bars or tiniest of Spanish villages, it’s rare these days to come across a waiter who doesn’t understand exactly what “gluten free” means. In fact, many will go out of their way to make sure you have a safe gluten free meal in their establishment!

To help you with eating gluten free in Seville and Spain, check out this Gluten Free Guide to Spain from Jodi at Legal Nomads. She also has Spanish gluten free restaurant translation cards to help you avoid any problems or misunderstandings on your travels.

Where to Find Gluten Free Breakfast in Seville

Breakfast is one of my favourite meals to eat out, if not just for the culture of sitting in the sun with a coffee and watching the world go buy more so than the food! And given that I can’t eat gluten, I’ve tried and tested most of the gluten free options in the city. Here are my tops picks for the best gluten free breakfast in Seville!

1. Cafe Otto

Come to Cafe Otto on almost any given day of the week and you will find me there. This is definitely my favourite place for breakfast in Seville, and not just for its proximity to my home and office! The toasts come with a range of toppings, starting at €2.50 for a coffee and toast (and no extra surcharge for gluten free bread – take note!). There are also some different options such as scrambled eggs for when you are craving a little bit of familiarity from home. Note that Cafe Otto is always closed on Thursdays (partly due to the weekly flea market in the area).

Plaza Monte Sión, 8, 41003

2. Al Solito Posto

While Al Solito Posto is more known as a great place for Italian (and especially gluten free Italian!) food, it is also open from 8:30am for breakfast each day. There is a great list of typical tostadas that come with a coffee included in the price, but if you are feeling like something special go for the Tostada Italiana, with tomato, parmesan cheese and rocket. All of the gluten free food here is prepared in a separate kitchen, so you can be sure that utmost care has been taken to prevent cross-contamination – making it one of the best places to eat a gluten-free breakfast in Seville!

Alameda de Hércules, 16, 41002

3. Dulce Trazo

Located in Seville’s central Arenal neighbourhood, Dulce Trazo is a breakfast favourite for visitors and locals working in the area. The tostadas here are huge, meaning it is a great option to fill up before a busy morning sightseeing! They also do a huge range of homemade cakes, many of which are gluten and lactose free, and occasionally they even have some that are sugar free too.

Calle Méndez Núñez, 7, 41001

4. Milk Away

For those looking for healthier options to get the day started, Milk Away is one of the best places for breakfast in Seville for you! Their philosophy is based around making their food accessible for everyone, whether you are vegan, gluten free, or have any other special requirements. And with acai bowls, smoothies bowls, and both sweet and savoury toast options (banana, peanut butter and honey anyone?!) I’m sure you’ll find the perfect option for you!

Calle Pérez Galdós, 32, 41004

5. Bar Alfalfa

Bar Alfalfa is a tapas bar that is popular with locals, expats, and visitors alike in the centre of Seville, and while their tapas – although not my first choice – are not a bad option if you find yourself in the area, they are also open for breakfast – and their breakfasts are great! Go for the typical tomato and Iberian Ham combination, or mix things up with the tostada italiana – toast with provolone cheese and mortadella. And of course, don’t forget to mention that you want yours with pan sin gluten.

Calle Candilejo, 1, 41004

6. Almazen Cafe

Ever since Almazen Cafe first opened, it quickly became a popular spot for breakfast near Plaza de Pilatos – and one of my favourite places to eat breakfast in Seville! French-run, it offers a little more than the standard “toast” options, including an amazing croque monsieur, though regardless of whether you get something a bit more unique or stick with tostada con tomate, the quality of the products and the lovely homely vibe make it a great place to eat breakfast in Seville’s historic centre.

Calle San Esteban, 15, 41003

7. Orfeo Cafe

This is a place really takes sin gluten seriously. Aside from all of their usual breakfast offerings available with gluten free bread, they also have a range of cakes of which the majority are gluten free, and a selection of gluten free beers available! The range of options makes Orfeo Cafe a great option for breakfast, an afternoon merienda (coffee and cake break) or a drink before lunch or dinner.

Calle Jesús del Gran Poder, 19, 41002

8. La Mundana

Located in Camas, one of the first small towns right outside the city centre, La Mundana is one of my absolute breakfast favourites! You’ll need to get a bus (or drive if you have access to a car) but it’s worth it. But don’t forget to book on the weekends! Even though it is not in the centre, it is an absolute favourite among in-the-know locals for breakfast. As well as toasts with all the typical toppings you’d expect to find, they have delicious cakes, smoothies, and juices, too. This really is one of my favourite places for breakfast in Seville!

Avenida de las Erillas, 6, 41900, Camas

9. La Cacharrería

This was the place that did trendy breakfast in Seville before Seville even knew what that meant! It’s extremely popular and even with the recently acquired space next door there is still a queue on weekends, but it does have some of the most delicious and creative breakfast options in the city, toasts or otherwise! La Cacharrería’s basic tostadas will set you back between about €4-€6+ depending on what you top them with, and the gourmet tostadas are €9.90, but given it’s such a unique breakfast place in Seville, it’s worth it!

Calle Regina, 14, 41003

10. Cafe Moma

Another French-run cafe, this charming little spot called Cafe Moma is one of the newer places on this list that opened in 2020 on Calle Feria. With a couple of tables out the front, it makes the perfect place for people watching on any given morning in the neighbourhood. Their coffee is delicious, served in a glass just as we like it in Seville, and their tostadas are HUGE! I take mine with goats cheese, jamón and honey – the perfect French-meets-Spanish breakfast extraordinaire. Here is quickly moving up the ranks as one of the best places for breakfast in Seville.

Calle Feria, 33, 41003

11. La Cucufata

Bacon, egg and avocado toasted sandwich for €4? This alone makes it worthwhile making the trip to Los Bermejales to go to La Cucufata for breakfast! With a delicious mix of incredibly good value traditional as well as more unique tostada options, you’ll forget the bus or quick Uber ride you needed to get here. I haven’t been as much as I would’ve liked given it’s a bit out of the city centre, but I’ll definitely be back sooner rather than later.

Avenida de Finlandia, 1, 41012

12. Cocome

Cocome is THE perfect place to come for a wholesome bite to eat in the morning. I only discovered it recently, but it quickly became my go-to favourite place for breakfast in Seville when I am around the city centre. Aside from their delicious tostadas (my go-to is hummus, avocado and almonds) they have different options such as cereal bowls, porridge, and even smoothies! And if you’re feeling peckish later in the day, here is a great pit stop to refuel with wraps, sandwiches and salads at lunch time.

Calle Tarifa, 4, 41002

13. Paradas 7

This place is definitely not a contender for my favourite option in Seville, and I didn’t find it to be great value for what’s on offer (at least compared to some others on this list) but what Paradas 7 has going for it is the location! It’s right near Plaza de Armas bus station, making it the perfect place for breakfast in Seville if you are catching a bus in the morning, and being located on the edge of the centre means that it’s easily reachable if you are staying around Plaza del Museo/Arenal area.

Calle Marqués de Paradas, 7, 41001

14. Filo

If you are staying in the very centre and whether you need to eat gluten free or not, Filo is one of the best places for breakfast in Seville, especially if you are looking for healthier options. Their brunch menu features smoothie bowls, acai bowls, salad bowls and toasts (this is still Spain, after all!) and a whole heap of vegetarian, gluten free and other dietary-friendly options to make sure you are catered for no matter what your special dietary requirement is!

Calle Hernando Colón, 19, 41004

15. Bodega Salvatierra

If you are looking for the vibe of an authentic Spanish bar but are fully aware that they are the most difficult kind of places to find gluten free bread, this tiny bar just on the edge of the historic centre is the place for you! The coffee is authentically Spanish (strong, strong, strong!) and there is nothing fancy about the breakfast offerings – think tomato, jamón, jam, the normal breakfast lineup! But Bodega Salvatierra is uniquely sevillano and they always have gluten free bread, with a total neighbourhood vibe to boot.

16. Maravilla Social Club

This is a great little option just a stone’s throw from Calle Feria, with some good value and unique topping options for your morning tostada. The gluten free bread they use is not my favourite and sometimes it is a little bit under-toasted, but with a handful of outdoor tables under sturdy outdoor umbrellas, Maravilla Social Club is a great option if the weather is not so great or you have your furry four-legged friends with you.

Calle Maravillas, 1, 41003

17. La Mala Brunch

Open since mid-2019 this is one of the newer options on the list, and now they have an even newer location on the edge of Las Setas (the Metropol Parasol). And as the name suggests, brunch is the name of the game here! Aside from bowls with a few different unique breakfast options, the tostadas are where La Mala Brunch does an amazing job. I love their creative options such as the tostada with dig jam, fresh cheese, kiwifruit and nuts, or tostada with beetroot hummus.

Calle Rivero, 7, 41004

I am always on the lookout for new gluten-free breakfast places to add to the list, so if you have discovered anywhere great that I haven’t come across yet, please do let me know!

Seeing a flamenco show in Seville is one of the most sought experiences by visitors to the city, and rightly so! Even after having travelled all around Andalusia and Spain, I do truly believe that Seville is the best place to see flamenco in Spain, not just for the city’s rich and connected history to do with flamenco, but for the quality and atmosphere of the performances available.

That being said, there are still some places that are better than others, so it is important to choose your show wisely! Below are my recommendations for the best flamenco show in Seville so that you will catch an authentic performance of Spain’s most famous song and dance, but before we get started, we should cover a bit about what is flamenco so you know what you are getting yourself into!

What is flamenco?

While most people have heard that should see flamenco in Seville, there are a lot of misunderstandings about this fascinating art form so often people don’t quite know what to expect!

Many people don’t realise that flamenco is not just about dancing in incredible dresses, in fact, the guitar and singing are just as important – if not more important! – than the dance and the dresses. Here is a bit about each of the three main elements of flamenco below.

Singing: Curiously, the singer usually is seated, which is a homage to the more casual beginnings of flamenco where it was something that was just done among family and friends. Sometimes the singing can sound pained and almost unpleasant to some as the singer has a rough, guttural voice, but this is because flamenco songs are telling passionate but sad songs about things such as hardship, love lost, and many other melancholy themes.

Guitar: The flamenco guitar is absolutely incredible and personally my favourite part of any flamenco show. It dates back to medieval Spain and is a descendent of the lute, which was brought to Spain by the Moors (who ruled Spain from the 7th to 14th centuries).

Dancing: This dance is a unique, individual dance (not a partner dance!) and was the last addition to the flamenco show (in the beginning it was most likely just guitar and music). It is believed that the dancing was a necessary addition to take flamenco from being something that people did with family and friends in the streets and at home, to a performance in a bar or other type of establishment – while the origins of flamenco date back to the 16th century, the first flamenco bars in Seville did no open until the late 19th century!

Read about how Sophie fell in love with flamenco and Seville here.

What are the origins of flamenco?

As I mentioned, the origins are a bit mysterious but it is widely accepted that the origins of flamenco were brought to Seville and Spain in the 15th century by the gypsies. Upon settling in Spain they were considered the outcasts of society and forced to work long hours in jobs like mining. In the mines, they were forbidden from speaking and so they began to sing to communicate. So if you imagine that the wailing that you hear today were the cries of their struggle, and the banging of the picks in the mine was a form of rhythm, you can begin to imagine how flamenco may have begun…

Read more about the origins of flamenco and Spain’s complicated history with this mysterious artform here.

Where to see flamenco in Seville

Without further ado, here are my top five recommendations of where to see flamenco in Seville, from my favourite tablaos (a theatre-like place where flamenco shows are performed) to the best spot to catch a non-touristy flamenco show in Seville.

Casa de la Memoria

I am lucky to say that I have seen well over 50 shows at Casa de la Memoria, and counting! This is one of my favourite flamenco shows in Seville to take visiting friends and family to. They are a flamenco cultural centre dedicated to conserving the pure, traditional flamenco, and their intimate nightly shows take place in a beautiful typical Andalusian style building built around an indoor patio.

This show is highly popular so make sure you book in advance and seats are not allocated, so it’s a case of first come, best dressed! I recommend turning up at least 45 minutes before the show starts to jump in the queue as the best seats really are just the ones in front of the stage and it’s really popular as not only is this is one of the best flamenco shows in Seville, it’s also my personal favourite!

Tickets: Buy your tickets here

Price: €22 adults, €18 students & residents, €12 children

Show Times: 6pm, 7:30pm, 9pm, 10:30pm (options available may vary throughout the year)

La Casa del Flamenco

One of my other go-to flamenco shows in Seville is La Casa del Flamenco, tucked away in the winding streets of the historic Santa Cruz neighbourhood. Another intimate experience, this venue also only has a capacity of around 60 people, and works with a rotating troupe of fantastic performers, each delivering a high quality and unique show every evening.

Bookings in advance are required (though calling the same day to reserve tickets is usually fine!) and tickets cost €20 per person. Seats are also allocated here on a first come, first served basis, although it is really difficult to have a bad seat in this venue – the layout means that almost every seat has a great view of the stage, making it one of the best, if not the best flamenco show in Seville if you want to make sure you have a spectacular view!

Tickets: Buy your tickets here

Price: €20 adults, €15 students, €10 children

Show Times: 5:30pm, 7pm, 8:30pm (options available may vary throughout the year)

Do you want to learn about flamenco with the experts? Devour Tours visits this venue on their highly rated Tapas & Flamenco Tour. For a taste of the two quintessential experiences in Seville, this tour is highly recommended! You can book your ticket here.

La Carbonería

While these days La Carbonería is popular with locals and visitors alike, it is still a great place to visit to get a feel for the “local” way of enjoying flamenco. The entrance is free, just turn up, grab a drink, and squeeze in wherever you find a space. It doesn’t have the drama and the flair of the other shows, but does feel authentic and real and is a great option for those who want a laid back flamenco experience or are travelling in Seville on a budget.

Their 1.5 hour show takes every evening at 8:30pm (though you can enter from 7pm to have a drink and hang out). And make sure you have dinner (or plan to go after in the case of the earlier show) as while there is food available at the venue it’s just light tapas to snack on while enjoying a drink. This is a great flamenco show in Seville to visit with a group of friends, or as part of a fun, casual night out!

Tickets: Not required! Arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand as once it’s full, it’s full!

Price: Free

Show Times: Open from 7pm, show starts at 8:30pm

Museo del Baile Flamenco

Part flamenco show, part flamenco museum, Museo del Baile Flamenco is a great option for those wanting to learn more about the art form – you can even buy a combined ticket for the museum and show together!

While not as intimate as the last two shows, the evening show here is still a great option for those wanting to catch a glimpse of an authentic flamenco performance in Seville. And if you are planning to stick around and want to really get involved with flamenco, classes in the various aspects of flamenco (singing, guitar and dance) are available here.

Tickets: Buy your ticket here

Price: €25 adults, €18 students, €12 children

Show Times: 5pm, 7pm, 8:45pm (options available may vary throughout the year)

Did you get the chance to check out a flamenco show in Seville? I would love to hear about it, so let me know how your experience was! 

Disclosure: Some of the links on my website are affiliate links which means that if you purchase anything I recommend through these links, I may get a small commission, however at no extra cost to you! Please know that everything I recommend I have personally tried and tested and are experiences that I really believe are great.