Andalusia’s steamy capital of Seville is one of Spain’s most exciting cities, known for its vibrant flamenco scene, ornate Moorish architecture, picturesque plazas, and innovative tapas bars.
The city is built around the Casco Antiguo or Old Town and spreads out on either side of the River Guadalquivir. While the areas in the oldest part of the city have a similar feel with their jumble of narrow streets and charming courtyards, each neighborhood has its own individual character. Exploring most of them is possible in one trip to the city. Here are the best neighborhoods to visit in Seville, barrio by barrio.
Best for Old Town Romantic Vibes
Barrio Santa Cruz
The Barrio Santa Cruz lies within the historic heart of the city in the Casco Antiguo – it is arguably the most famous neighborhood in Seville and one that every visitor will explore. It comprises an atmospheric web of tiny streets lined with lively tapas bars and fountain-filled squares encircled by orange trees and colorful tiled benches. Santa Cruz is a very safe neighborhood – its narrow streets are well lit and always full of life, even in the early hours of the morning.
Once the city’s old Jewish Quarter, the Barrio Santa Cruz is home to several of Seville’s most important sites, including the grand gothic Catedral with its famous Moorish bell tower, La Giralda, and the opulent Real Alcázar Moorish fortress and palace. Moreover, it’s home to the Museo del Baile Flamenco – the city’s fascinating flamenco museum, which also doubles as a theater for live performances.
Barrio Alfalfa
Situated just north of the Barrio Santa Cruz, also within the Casco Antiguo, is the Barrio Alfalfa. Like its neighbor, it’s one of the city’s most iconic barrios, consisting of a tangle of narrow alleys connected by lively squares. It’s centered around the Plaza Alfalfa, which once held a live pet market on Sundays and is now lined with popular cafes and restaurants. Visit the elegant Plaza del Pan with its independent shops, the wide Plaza de la Pescadería, and the leafy green Plaza del Cristo de Burgos. The neighborhood’s main tourist site is the stunning Casa de Pilatos – an elaborate Mudéjar-style Andalusian palace. Recently, Alfalfa has quickly become one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seville, thanks to the area dubbed Soho Benita – a collection of funky independent shops, boutiques, bars, and hotels across six streets on the edge of the neighborhood.
Arenal
Arenal sits on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River and is part of the old town, bordering both Barrio Santa Cruz and El Centro. It’s one of the best areas to stay with many independent hotels. A vibrant and buzzing area, Arenal is dotted with great tapas bars and restaurants and is home to some of the city’s most important monuments. These include the riverside walkway of Paseo Christobal Colon with its 13th-century watchtower, the Torre del Oro, and the Baroque-style Plaza del Toros de la Real Maestranza, which is Spain’s oldest bullring.
While you might not want to watch a bullfight, the bullring and its associated museum are well worth a visit to understand more about Andalusian culture. Don’t miss the impressive semi-circular square of the Plaza del Cabildo and the Baroque Hospital de la Caridad, which today houses artworks by famous artists such as Valdés and Murillo.
Best for Location
El Centro
El Centro is the main bustling commercial center of Seville, just south of the Casco Antiguo. It encompasses the streets between Puerta Real and the Puerta Osario, as well as the busy shopping streets of Calle Sierpes and Calle Tetuán that run towards Plaza Nueva. At the northern end of El Centro, you’ll find a branch of Spain’s largest department store, El Corte Inglés, while Calle Sierpes and Calle Tetuán are home to several traditional shops selling everything from elegant lacy fans to flamenco dresses. The area also features worthwhile sights including the grand Ayuntamiento or Town Hall, one of the best examples of Plateresque architecture in Andalusia and the pink-hued Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador, built on the site of an old Moorish mosque in the 17th century.
Sur
The district of Sur lies to the south and the east of the central historic area of the Casco Antiguo. Much of this area was given a makeover for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, leading to the construction of the landmark Plaza de España, along with the sprawling Parque de María Luisa. Today, this area is one of the most visited in the city, with tourists flocking to admire the impressive square, complete with Neo-Moorish pavilions, large fountains, and ornate ceramic-tiled benches. The shady Parque de María Luisa is home to attractions like the Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares (Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions) and the Acuario de Seville (Seville Aquarium), alongside the grand 18th-century stone Antigua Fábrica de Tabacos, which inspired Georges Bizet’s famous opera, Carmen.
Both Sur and El Centro are ideal neighborhoods for families due to their central locations and wealth of attractions, along with being relatively quieter at night compared to the Old Town.
Best for Experiencing the City like a Local
Triana
The working-class neighborhood of Triana lies across the river from the main city, connected by the old Triana Bridge. It’s one of the most traditional neighborhoods in Seville, known for its historic tile workshops and potteries. Triana boasts a community vibe, with a mix of artists, dancers, and musicians, and is a great place to catch a flamenco show. One of the liveliest parts of Triana is Calle Betis, with its multi-colored facades overlooking the river. It’s particularly popular for its nightlife, but those seeking an authentic experience should head further into the neighborhood.
Los Remedios
The modern area of Los Remedios lies just south of Triana across the River Guadalquivir. It’s a vital commercial area buzzing with visitors shopping and attending various events. For some downtime, visit the verdant Parque de Los Príncipes with its large lake. This area also hosts Seville’s most famous festival – the Feria de Abril, celebrating flamenco, horses, and Andalusian culture.
Best Neighborhood for Nightlife
La Alameda de Hércules
The neighborhood of La Alameda marches to the beat of its own drum. Alternative and bohemian, this once neglected area is now a vibrant hotspot. Centered around the large plaza of the same name, it borders La Macarena and the Guadalquivir River. This long, narrow square is known for its lively nightlife – particularly popular with Seville’s student and LGBTQI communities – surrounded by bars, live music clubs, and international restaurants. It’s even recognized as the birthplace of Andalusian rock music.
