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Seville is a compact, walkable city rich in history, flamenco culture, and tapas — plan for hot summers, busy spring festivals, and late-night dining. Know visa rules, basic Spanish etiquette, transport options, and safety norms to make the most of your visit.
Visa & entry requirements
- Schengen rules: Seville is in Spain (Schengen Area). EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only ID. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free short stays (typically 90 days in 180). Others must obtain a Schengen visa ahead of travel.
- Passport validity: Generally at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen and issued within the last 10 years; check your consulate for specifics.
- Documentation: Carry return/onward ticket, proof of accommodation, travel/health insurance and funds if asked at border.
Best time to visit
- Spring (March–May): Ideal — pleasant temperatures, orange blossoms and Semana Santa/Easter processions and Feria de Abril (fair). Very busy during these festivals.
- Fall (September–November): Warm, fewer crowds, great for sightseeing and tapas outdoors.
- Summer (June–August): Extremely hot (often 35–40+°C). If visiting, plan mornings/evenings for outdoor activities; many businesses close midday (siesta culture persists in smaller shops/restaurants).
- Winter (December–February): Mild and quieter; some attractions have shorter hours but good off-season deals.
Safety tips
- General safety: Seville is relatively safe for tourists. Exercise usual urban caution: watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas (cathedral, trains, buses, tourist hotspots).
- Scams: Be wary of distraction techniques (people offering petitions, friendship bracelets) near major sights; politely decline and walk away.
- Night safety: Streets in central neighborhoods (Santa Cruz, Alameda) are lively; avoid poorly lit side streets late at night and use licensed taxis or rideshares if needed.
- Health: Stay hydrated in summer, use sunscreen and plan indoor breaks.
Local customs & etiquette
- Greetings: A light handshake or two cheek kisses among acquaintances; use titles (Señor/Señora) if unsure.
- Meal times: Lunch ~14:00, dinner often 21:00 or later. Tapas culture encourages sharing small plates; ordering multiple tapas across bars is common.
- Flamenco etiquette: Turn off phone cameras during intimate performances if requested, and applaud enthusiastically.
- Dress: Smart-casual; churches require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) to enter some religious sites.
Currency & payments
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Cards vs cash: Cards widely accepted; smaller tapas bars, markets, and some siesta-hour shops may prefer cash. Carry small notes and coins for tapas, tips, and public toilets.
- ATMs: Readily available; use bank ATMs to reduce fees. Notify your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
Transportation
- Airport: Seville Airport (SVQ) — 10–15 minutes by taxi to city center; bus line EA connects to Santa Justa train station and city center.
- Getting around: City center is very walkable. Biking is popular (several rental options and public Sevici bike-share). Trams, buses and suburban Cercanías trains serve broader area.
- Taxis & rideshares: Licensed taxis are beige/black with meters. Uber and Cabify operate in Seville.
- Trains: Santa Justa station connects high-speed AVE routes (Madrid, Barcelona) and regional services — convenient for day trips.
Must-know practical tips & local insights
- Book major attractions in advance: Alcázar and Cathedral (including Giralda) often have long lines and limited timed entries — reserve online ahead, especially in high season.
- Explore neighborhoods: Santa Cruz (historic), Triana (flamenco and pottery), Alameda (bars and nightlife), Arenal (bullring, riverfront). Walk across Triana Bridge for great views.
- Tapas & food: Try jamón ibérico, salmorejo, espinacas con garbanzos and pescaíto frito. Look for busy local spots (a sign of quality). Tipping is modest (5–10% or round up) but appreciated.
- Siesta & opening hours: Some small shops close midday (roughly 14:00–17:00). Major museums remain open through the day but check hours on Sundays/holidays.
- Festivals: Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril are spectacular but crowded and more expensive; plan and book early if traveling then.
- Language: Spanish is primary; English is common in tourist areas but learning a few phrases (hola, por favor, gracias) is appreciated.
- Day trips: Córdoba (Mezquita), Ronda, Jerez (sherry & horses) and Doñana/Atlantic coast are reachable by train or car.
Quick packing checklist
- Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, light layers for evenings, a reusable water bottle, plug adapter (Type C/E), photocopies of travel documents, and a small day bag with anti-theft features.
Final practical note
Reserve key attraction tickets and accommodations early for spring and festival periods, stay hydrated in summer, and embrace the tapas/flamenco culture for the most rewarding Seville experience.