Guide to Culture & Food in Sevilla, Spain

Food tour

Food tours are a fun and easy way to learn about a new city. You will tour neighborhoods, enjoy local foods and discover insider tips. Your guide will discuss the history of the food and location while you sample tapas and tipples in least four stops throughout Old Town. Come hungry.

Tablao Flamenco en Sevilla

Attending a flamenco show is a requirement for any trip to Sevilla. While there are many options to choose from, I recommend Tablao Flamenco en Sevilla. The intimate venue and soulful performances create an environment that will move you. Reservations are recommended as space is limited.

Parque de María Luisa

If you are looking for an oasis in the city, look no further than Parque de Maria Luisa. Initially part of the Palacio de San Telmo, the land was donated to the city in 1893 for use as a public park and redesigned for the 1929 Exposición Iberoamericana. Enjoy the shaded footpaths, Mediterranean plants, historic fountains and literary monuments. Also home to the Plaza de España, Museu Arqueológico de Sevilla and Museo de Artes y Cosumbres Populares; there is no shortage of ways to experience the park.

Iglesia Colegial del Salvador

Built on the site of a former mosque, Iglesia Colegial del Salvador overlooks Plaza del Salvador and is the second largest church in Sevilla. Remnants of its history remain with its courtyard of orange trees and Moorish architecture. Inside the elaborate baroque altarpieces, gilded woodcraft and various frescos will take your breath away.

Setas de Sevilla

Setas de Sevilla is more than the largest wooden structure in the world. Located in the heart of Old Town Sevilla, Setas de Sevilla has something for everyone. Explore the Antiquarium Museum to view Sevilla's largest archeological site with in situ ruins dating as far back as the 1st century. Enjoy culinary delights in the Mercado de la Encarnación before heading to the viewing platform to take in the 360 degree views of the city.

Real Alcázar

Real Alcázar is the royal palace of Seville and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally built as a fort in 913, the site has evolved over the last 11 centuries and it's architectural style includes influences from Moorish and Christian culture. The palace will take your breath away with its intricate tiles and stonework. After you finish touring the palace, move outside to the stunning gardens. There you will find pavilions, ponds and exotic plants to delight the senses.

RESTAURANTS

• Restaurante Manzil - Juan Andrés Morilla invites you into his kitchen for a dining experience of "cuisine without complexes." Its minimalist offering of two tasting menus begins by taking your first course at the open kitchen's plating station. The menus include shrimp, tuna, duck, and even pigeon. Each course, more delicious than the last, is presented with style and grace. A visit to Manzil is recommended in the Michelin Guide so be sure to book a reservation.

• Recoveco - With dishes made from seasonal and fresh products it is hard to choose just one.  Thankfully there are two generous tasting menus to indulge in and will not disappoint.  As if the menu was not enough, Recoveco offers a rooftop terrace with views of the Giralda.  Part of the terrace is enclosed so even if the weather does not cooperate you can still enjoy the view.  The attentive staff only add to this delightful experience.    

• Mercado Lonja del Barranco - Hungry but not sure what you are in the mood for?  Head to Mercado Lonja del Barranco.  Its 20 vendors offer more than 150 options from charcuterie, paella, smoothies, desserts, and more.  Pair your dishes with local or imported wines and beer.  After enjoying your meal in this historic market, you can head outside to Terraza Sojo and enjoy a cocktail while watching the boats motor by on the Guadalquivir River.

TAVERNAS

• Cerveceria Giralda - On a hot Sevilla summer day, the terrace misters at Cerveceria Giralda's outdoor tables will catch your attention.  Here you can enjoy a tinto de verano or cold beer (I recommend a Cruzcampo) while taking in the views of the Giralda and Cathedral while cooling off under the refreshing mist.  Get transported to the 12th century when you head inside as you will be stepping into the remains of an Arab bath.  This unique architecture creates a dramatic backdrop for each of the restaurant's spaces where traditional Spanish tapas can be appreciated. 

• Kiosco Abilio - During your visit to Parque de María Luisa, make sure to stop into Kiosco Abilio for tapas and drinks.  Located across from Pabellón Real this pub is unassuming and provides a great location to relax and cool off. 

• Bodega Aurora Sevilla - Bodega Aurora Sevilla is the ideal place to venture if you are looking for an authentic, local hangout.  After the helpful staff serves you your beverage of choice, move outside and take in the sights and sounds of the city.