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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Seville Cathedral
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal Gothic cathedral, once a mosque, boasting the iconic La Giralda tower and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
"The grandeur, the intricate details, and the overwhelming scale truly have to be seen in person to be believed."
🎟️ 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Gothic Architecture
Main Cathedral Interior
Experience the sheer scale and intricate details of the world's largest Gothic cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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!
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your visit with detailed historical context.
🧥 Dress respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees; a light cardigan is useful for temperature changes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ 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!
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your visit with detailed historical context.
🧥 Dress respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees; a light cardigan is useful for temperature changes.
💧 Stay hydrated
Water dispensers are available inside.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Some users have found success checking for last-minute releases around midnight online.Ticket prices can vary, but general admission typically ranges from 13-15€. Online booking might incur higher fees compared to purchasing in person.
Combo tickets that include the Alcázar and Cathedral are also available.Tickets for Seville Cathedral generally include access to La Giralda tower. The climb up the tower is part of the standard visit.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Absolutely! Climbing La Giralda offers spectacular panoramic views of Seville. The ascent is via ramps, making it a unique experience.
Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times.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.
Photography is generally allowed inside Seville Cathedral, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in certain areas.
Yes, restrooms and water dispensers are available inside the cathedral for visitor convenience.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior offers grand architectural shots, while climbing La Giralda provides panoramic city views. The exterior, especially at sunset, is also very photogenic.
Photography is generally permitted inside the cathedral, but it's important to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors. Avoid using flash.
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.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating a more atmospheric feel.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Seville Cathedral
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.
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.
Climbing La Giralda: An Unforgettable Experience
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.
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.
Navigating Seville Cathedral: Tips for Visitors
When it comes to tickets, booking in advance online is crucial, as walk-in availability can be limited, especially during peak season. If you find tickets are sold out, some Reddit users suggest checking the official website around midnight, as new tickets are sometimes released then. For those who prefer a more guided experience, guided tours are available and offer in-depth historical narratives, though they are typically more expensive.
Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as this is a place of worship. The interior can be warm, so carrying a water bottle and perhaps a light cardigan is advisable. Taking your time to absorb the grandeur and history of this magnificent structure will ensure a memorable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit