Seville Cathedral, Seville - a black and white photo of a cathedral
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Seville Cathedral

4.8
·55k reviews·Sevilla, Spain

A colossal Gothic cathedral, once a mosque, boasting the iconic La Giralda tower and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid heat & crowds

CrowdLow
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Seville Cathedral, Seville - a black and white photo of a cathedral

Seville Cathedral

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A colossal Gothic cathedral, once a mosque, boasting the iconic La Giralda tower and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

4.8
(55k reviews)

"The grandeur, the intricate details, and the overwhelming scale truly have to be seen in person to be believed."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially for tours.

🚶‍♀️ Climb La Giralda

Ascend the ramps for stunning city views; it's a unique experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

La Giralda Tower

La Giralda Tower

Bell Tower

Climb this iconic Moorish bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Seville. The ascent is via ramps, not stairs!

Christopher Columbus's Tomb

Christopher Columbus's Tomb

Nave

Marvel at the elaborate monument housing the remains of the famous explorer, a significant historical artifact within the cathedral.

Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Main Cathedral Interior

Experience the sheer scale and intricate details of the world's largest Gothic cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural grandeur.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Seville Cathedral is a major attraction, and tickets can sell out, especially for guided tours. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Some Reddit users suggest checking for last-minute releases around midnight if initial availability is low. Reddit+1

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Seville can get extremely hot, particularly in summer. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the peak heat and larger crowds. TikTok+1 Consider an audio guide to explore at your own pace and learn about the history without feeling rushed. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Avoid heat & crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍊 5 things to do in Sevilla, Andalusía, Spain: • 🚣🏻 Rent a boat for 6€/30min or 10€/1hour and navigate to see Plaza de España from a new perspective. The prices are per boat and it can hold up to 4 people. • 🕌 Visit the spectacular Game of Thrones location ‘Real Alcázar’. This was definetly my favorite place, the gardens are filled with wisteria, lemon and orange trees and if you chose the month...
@sagelining
100.2K likes • 884K views

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially for tours. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Climb La Giralda

Ascend the ramps for stunning city views; it's a unique experience! Instagram

3 Hidden Gems of Seville You Need to Visit ✨ 📍Plaza del Cabildo A peaceful semi-circular square tucked away near the cathedral. Its charming arches and hidden antique market make it a true treasure. 📍Casa de las Dueñas Step into history with this stunning palace. Its colorful tiles, lush gardens, and aristocratic vibes will transport you to another era. 📍Basilica de la Macarena Home to Seville’s b...
@viento.liibre
75.6K likes • 1M views
Seville Travel Guide 🇪🇸✨ (⬇️ Save this for your next trip!) 🏛 Must-See Sights 1. Real Alcázar – A palace straight out of a fairytale, rich in history and architectural layers. 2. Seville Cathedral & La Giralda – A Gothic masterpiece with a tower offering panoramic views. 3. Plaza de España – Iconic and cinematic, perfect for a stroll or rowboat ride. 4. Casa de Pilatos – A peaceful oasis blending...
takemyhearteverywhere
98.7K likes • 2.2M views

🎧 Use the audio guide

Enhance your visit with detailed historical context. Reddit+1

🧥 Dress respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees; a light cardigan is useful for temperature changes. Reddit

This is the BIGGEST gothic cathedral in the World! 🤯 Welcome to the Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, otherwise known as the Seville Cathedral! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an absolute must visit if you’re travelling to Seville! Wander the many different wings and marvel at the incredible scale of this place. It truly is something to experience! This building has an interesting history,...
soniaseestheworld
257 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book tickets online

Secure your spot by booking online in advance, especially for tours. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Climb La Giralda

Ascend the ramps for stunning city views; it's a unique experience! Instagram

🎧 Use the audio guide

Enhance your visit with detailed historical context. Reddit+1

🧥 Dress respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees; a light cardigan is useful for temperature changes. Reddit

💧 Stay hydrated

Water dispensers are available inside. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(55k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Seville Cathedral for its immense scale, stunning Gothic architecture, and historical significance, particularly the tomb of Christopher Columbus and the panoramic views from La Giralda. While some find it lacks intimacy, the grandeur and the unique ramped ascent of the tower are highlights. The heat inside and potential crowds can be drawbacks, but booking tickets in advance and visiting during cooler hours are recommended. InstagramReddit

"The cathedral is definitely worth a visit, not only for its impressive history but also for its striking architecture. It’s a grand and opulent building, though it does lack a bit of character and intimacy.
A particularly interesting feature is the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The highlight, however, is the bell tower, which offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Restrooms and water dispensers are available, and it’s recommended to buy your tickets in advance."

Antonia

"A very beautiful cathedral, perhaps the most beautiful I have ever visited. The place has a special charm and a person can spend at least 3 hours there without noticing the time. However, if he wanted to stand at a plaque or monument and read about it, he would need more time. The best and most beautiful memory a person can have from this place."

Mohammad Agee

"Beautiful Cathedral. If you buy tickets I suggest doing so in person at the ticket booth because the official website charges much more. In person my ticket was 13 or 15€ and online it was 40€. Huge difference. Their security is a bit lazy over there and dress code is only enforced for your shoulders. So men can wear shorts and ladies can wear shorts. Just have something covering your shoulders. If you plan to go into the Giralda, be prepared to walk up about 27 flights of slopes. (Not stairs just incline hills) There are windows along the way up but they don’t offer a huge breeze. There are a few stops to look at on the way up but it’s only possible to really enjoy if it’s not too crowded or hot. The top of the Giralda doesn’t have a huge breeze either but it’s better than the way up! If you are going for sightseeing or photography you may be disappointed because there are wire gates all along the exterior preventing you from taking a great photo unless you maneuver your phone camera into one of the holes. The metal/wire gates are for safety but kind of take away the purpose of going up the Giralda in the first place."

Sutton Nelson

What People Like

Impressive Gothic architecture
Panoramic views from La Giralda
Christopher Columbus's tomb

What People Dislike

Can feel impersonal
Hot inside during summer
Crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Seville Cathedral is centrally located in the heart of Seville, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by walking from many parts of the city center, or by taking a local bus or tram. The closest tram stop is 'Archivo de Indias'. If you're arriving by taxi or ride-share, simply provide 'Seville Cathedral' as your destination. TikTok

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Seville Cathedral can be challenging due to its central location and pedestrianized areas. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi. If you must drive, look for public parking garages like 'Mercado de la Encarnación' or 'Plaza de la Encarnación', which are a short walk away. TikTok

Yes, Seville Cathedral can be visited as part of a day trip. However, given its size and the historical depth, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate it, especially if you plan to climb La Giralda. Reddit+1

Seville is a very walkable city, and many attractions, including the Cathedral, are close to each other. Public buses and trams are efficient for longer distances. Renting a bike is also a popular option for exploring the city at your own pace. TikTok

Just a short walk from the Cathedral, you can discover charming spots like Plaza del Cabildo, a peaceful square with an antique market, and the stunning Casa de las Dueñas palace. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Seville Cathedral website or in person at the ticket booth. It's highly recommended to book online in advance, as tickets, especially for guided tours, can sell out quickly. Reddit+1 Some users have found success checking for last-minute releases around midnight online. Reddit

Ticket prices can vary, but general admission typically ranges from 13-15€. Online booking might incur higher fees compared to purchasing in person. Reddit Combo tickets that include the Alcázar and Cathedral are also available. Reddit

Tickets for Seville Cathedral generally include access to La Giralda tower. The climb up the tower is part of the standard visit. Instagram

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to change for religious services. Generally, the cathedral is open from Monday to Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Yes, a modest dress code is recommended. Visitors should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. While shorts might be permissible if they cover the knees, it's safer to opt for longer trousers or skirts. Reddit+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A typical visit to Seville Cathedral, including climbing La Giralda, can take around 2-3 hours. If you wish to delve deeper into the history and read all the plaques, you might need more time. Reddit

Absolutely! Climbing La Giralda offers spectacular panoramic views of Seville. The ascent is via ramps, making it a unique experience. TikTokInstagram Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times. Reddit

To avoid the heat and crowds, visiting early in the morning (before 11 am) or later in the afternoon (after 5 pm) is recommended. This also provides beautiful lighting for photography. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally allowed inside Seville Cathedral, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in certain areas. TikTok

Yes, restrooms and water dispensers are available inside the cathedral for visitor convenience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around Seville Cathedral is brimming with tapas bars and restaurants. You can find everything from traditional Spanish cuisine to international options. Exploring the Santa Cruz neighborhood nearby offers a charming culinary experience. TikTok+1

No, food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the main areas of Seville Cathedral to preserve the historical site. However, water is usually allowed. Reddit

Look for local specialties like 'espinacas con garbanzos' (spinach with chickpeas), 'solomillo al whisky' (pork loin in whisky sauce), and 'jamón ibérico'. Many bars offer a wide variety of small plates perfect for sharing. TikTok

Yes, several rooftop bars and restaurants in Seville offer stunning views of the Cathedral and La Giralda, especially at sunset. These are great spots for a drink or a meal with a view. TikTok

Prices can vary, but you can find both budget-friendly tapas bars and more upscale dining options. Exploring slightly away from the immediate vicinity of the cathedral can often lead to more affordable and authentic choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The interior offers grand architectural shots, while climbing La Giralda provides panoramic city views. The exterior, especially at sunset, is also very photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally permitted inside the cathedral, but it's important to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors. Avoid using flash. TikTok

While you can take photos from La Giralda, some visitors note that wire gates along the exterior can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Maneuvering your camera carefully can help. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating a more atmospheric feel. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around historical monuments like Seville Cathedral due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to check local drone laws before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seville Cathedral can be an engaging experience for families, though it requires managing energy levels and heat. The sheer size of the cathedral and the climb up La Giralda (via ramps!) can be an adventure for older children. Instagram The tomb of Christopher Columbus might spark curiosity about history. Instagram Consider bringing snacks and water, and plan your visit for cooler parts of the day to avoid the heat. TikTokReddit The audio guide can help keep younger visitors engaged with stories and facts. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Seville Cathedral is a must-see, budget-conscious travelers can optimize their visit. Booking tickets directly from the official website or in person at the ticket booth is generally cheaper than through third-party sites. Reddit Look for combo tickets if you also plan to visit the Alcázar. Reddit Visiting during off-peak hours might mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. TikTok For a taste of Seville's vibrant culture without a high cost, consider exploring the Santa Cruz neighborhood's many affordable tapas bars. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Seville Cathedral offers incredible photographic opportunities. The soaring Gothic architecture inside, the intricate details of the chapels, and the dramatic tomb of Columbus provide ample subjects. Instagram+1 Climbing La Giralda is essential for panoramic cityscapes, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. TikTok Be aware of the wire gates on the tower, which may require some creative angling for unobstructed shots. Reddit The exterior of the cathedral also looks stunning when illuminated at night. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral, officially known as Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, is a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. It was built on the site of a former Almohad mosque, with the minaret of the mosque being ingeniously transformed into the cathedral's iconic bell tower, La Giralda. Construction of the current Gothic cathedral began in the late 15th century and was completed in the early 16th century, making it the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Instagram+1

The cathedral's design reflects the transition from Moorish influence to Renaissance styles, showcasing a blend of architectural elements. Its immense scale and grandeur were intended to demonstrate Seville's wealth and power during the Age of Discovery, a period when the city was a major hub for trade with the Americas. The presence of Christopher Columbus's tomb within the cathedral further underscores its historical significance. TikTokInstagram

Today, Seville Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination. Visitors can explore its numerous chapels, admire the intricate altarpieces, and learn about its rich past through audio guides and guided tours. The cathedral's enduring legacy lies not only in its architectural magnificence but also in its role as a silent witness to Seville's dynamic history. InstagramReddit

Climbing La Giralda: An Unforgettable Experience

La Giralda, the bell tower of Seville Cathedral, offers a unique ascent and unparalleled views of the city. Unlike traditional bell towers that feature steep staircases, La Giralda was originally the minaret of the mosque and was designed with ramps to allow the muezzin to ride a horse to the top. This design makes the climb accessible, though still a considerable effort. InstagramReddit

As you ascend the 34 ramps, you'll pass by windows that offer glimpses of the city below and the cathedral's interior. While some find the climb challenging, especially in warmer weather, the reward at the summit is well worth it. From the top, you're treated to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Seville, with its terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and the Guadalquivir River stretching out before you. TikTokReddit

It's important to note that the viewing platform at the top is protected by wire gates, which can sometimes make photography a bit tricky. However, with a little maneuvering, you can still capture stunning images of the cityscape. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can enhance the experience by offering softer light and fewer crowds. TikTokReddit

Navigating Seville Cathedral: Tips for Visitors

Seville Cathedral is vast, and to make the most of your visit, a little planning goes a long way. Many visitors recommend using the audio guide, which provides insightful historical context and helps you navigate the cathedral's many sections without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit+1 The audio guide can be downloaded or accessed via a provided device. Reddit

When it comes to tickets, booking in advance online is crucial, as walk-in availability can be limited, especially during peak season. Reddit+1 If you find tickets are sold out, some Reddit users suggest checking the official website around midnight, as new tickets are sometimes released then. Reddit For those who prefer a more guided experience, guided tours are available and offer in-depth historical narratives, though they are typically more expensive. Reddit

Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as this is a place of worship. Reddit+1 The interior can be warm, so carrying a water bottle and perhaps a light cardigan is advisable. TikTokReddit Taking your time to absorb the grandeur and history of this magnificent structure will ensure a memorable visit. Reddit

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