With its rich history, delicious dishes, safe streets and lively people, Seville is a solo traveler’s dream come true.
In an age when travel is more accessible than ever, more and more people are looking for a way to disconnect and get lost in another language, culture, and cuisine. On top of having all three, Seville is perfectly walkable and incredibly safe, which is probably why it was named one of the best cities for solo travel in Spain. Who wouldn’t want to spend a few days trying to retrace their footsteps through the winding Jewish quarter and stopping off for a tapa every now and then?
If this sounds like it could be you, we’ve got good news—here’s everything you need to know when it comes to solo travel in Seville!
Get Lost in Santa Cruz
As you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets of Santa Cruz, it is impossible not to feel the energy and influence of the three cultures which once coexisted there: Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. It’s the perfect place to see why so many fall in love with Seville, and the hidden plazas are perfect for writing postcards to friends and family and contemplating the history that surrounds you. Check out a few of our favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz for a bite to eat after all that wandering!
Enjoy a Morning in the Royal Alcázares
One of the heavy hitters for tourists in Seville are the Royal Alcázares, and for good reason. Make sure your camera is fully charged because chances are you won’t put it down during your entire visit! Andalusia’s emblematic Mudéjar style is present in every corner of this colorful gem.
Our advice? Bring your travel journal and cozy up in one of the many tucked-away tiled alcoves in the gardens and let yourself be inspired!
Pro tip: Buy your tickets online before you go! Avoid the line that tends to stretch around the corner.
Traipse Through Triana
Triana is one of Seville’s spiciest neighborhoods. Known as being the cradle of flamenco music, it seems to have a life and flavor all its own. Triana is best seen when the sun goes down and the vecinos (neighbors) come out for a few beers and tapas with friends. The lively local atmosphere is not to be missed.
Insider’s tip: Triana is also known for its beautiful ceramics, so be sure to check out the artisanal shops during the afternoon hours and grab a caña afterwards!
Stay at a Hostel
Hotels tend to see families and couples with their own agendas, whereas hostels offer up the opportunity to join in a group whenever you’re up for it.
Hostels are not what they used to be. Long gone are the days of dingy rooms with 25 bunk beds that might fall on you as you sleep. Whether you want something a bit more private or you’re looking to meet some new roommates, Seville’s hostels have it all. Most of them have special dinner nights, pub crawls, walking tours and flamenco nights, and the famous Oasis Backpackers Hostel even boasts a rooftop pool. You can’t beat that!
Looking for something a bit cozier? Why not rent a room at an Airbnb? As long as the room you’re renting is legally licensed, this can be a great way to meet other wanderers—and the hosts are always fantastic sources of a true peek into the culture!
Enjoy María Luisa Park
Infanta Luisa Fernanda officially donated this park to the public in 1893, and today it’s Seville’s most prominent green space.
It has 100 acres of flora and even a bit of fauna (mainly birds), and is covered with colorful tiles, benches and elaborate fountains, making it the perfect place to take a bike or leisurely walk any time of day. Be sure to seek out some of the hidden gems within the park, such as the Mudéjar Pavilion, which was built for the Iberoamerican Exposition in 1929.
Bonus: hit two birds with one stone and visit the Plaza de España before or after your visit—it’s right next door!
See Great Flamenco
Going to Seville without seeing a good flamenco show is akin to going to Chicago and not trying deep dish pizza.
There are many theories out there about the origins of flamenco, but most people agree that it has its roots right here in Seville. That being said, finding authentic flamenco in Seville can be tricky these days, so look out for small, intimate venues that value spontaneity and simplicity.
Take a Tapas Tour
There’s no better way to feel part of a group and part of a culture than by breaking bread…and sharing a bottle of wine! When you’ve finished marveling at ancient architecture and cursing the street system of Santa Cruz, we’ll be waiting for you with a glass of sherry and a plate of jamón.
This blog post was updated on April 28, 2023.
Whether you’re in for a daytime tour or up for an evening of wining and dining, Devour has the perfect food tour for solo travelers!
