This blog post was originally posted on March 18, 2016, and was updated on March 9, 2019.
Planning on visiting the Andalusian capital in April? Lucky you—you’ve picked one of the best times of year to visit Seville.
Extravagant local celebrations—check. Plazas and terraces overflowing with locals enjoying al fresco drinks and meals—check. The intoxicating scent of azahar drifting through the air—check.
Throw in plenty of gorgeous, sunny, pleasantly warm weather (we’re still not suffering through the scorching heat that plagues Seville in summer just yet) and you’ve got a picture-perfect setting for the quintessential southern Spanish getaway. These things to do in Seville in April will help complete your itinerary.
1. Walk among the beautiful orange blossoms
One of the most iconic images of Seville is that of the emblematic orange trees—nearly 40,000 of them, in fact—lining its winding streets. Their striking white blossoms and sweet scent are the essence of spring, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a walk beneath the trees is one of the easiest things to do in Seville in April to immerse yourself in local life.
Start off in Plaza de Doña Elvira, a quaint hidden square in the colorful Santa Cruz neighborhood and home to a small but gorgeous oasis of the stunning trees. Make your way west (taking either the more popular route past the cathedral, or the off-the-beaten-path option through the winding backstreets of Santa Cruz), finally stopping for a well-deserved treat at La Fiorentina, home to some of the best ice cream in Seville (and a favorite stop on our Tastes, Tapas & Traditions Tour!).
2. Experience the passion of Semana Santa
Here in Seville, the arrival of Easter doesn’t feature a cute little bunny leaving treats in a basket. Instead, it’s all about Semana Santa, or Holy Week. Every day for a week leading up to Easter Sunday, extravagant, passionate processions wind their way through the streets of the Andalusian capital, leaving spectators breathless in their wake.
While each procession is different, they all commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Resilient members of local religious brotherhoods carry massive floats depicting the Virgin Mary and Christ himself (which can weigh up to 1,500 and 2,000 kilos respectively!) for hours on end, surrounded by dozens of humble penitents. Even if you’re not Catholic or even particularly religious, the fanfare surrounding Semana Santa in Seville is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2020 dates: April 3–12
3. Dance the night away at the Sevilla Swing Festival
Yes, it’s true that we sevillanos are pretty crazy about the throaty singing, fast-paced guitar and foot-stomping beats that make up flamenco music. That’s not all that the local music scene has to offer, however. The annual Sevilla Swing Festival is one of the best opportunities to enjoy some of the best live music in Seville in April.
Since its inception in 2013, the annual event has been a celebration of one of the world’s most fun and exciting musical styles, taking Seville by storm for several days in early April. In addition to dozens of fantastic performances, you’ll also have the opportunity to check out fun dance classes, fascinating exhibitions and one-of-a-kind markets. It’s easily one of the top things to do in Seville in April for music lovers.
2019 dates: April 16–19
4. Explore Paris’ charming Montmartre at a fascinating exhibition
Nope, you don’t have to travel all the way to Paris to learn about one of the most fascinating quartiers in all of Europe. This spring, CaixaForum Sevilla is hosting a temporary exhibit entitled “The Spirit of Montmartre” which captures the bohemian essence of this iconic neighborhood at its best.
Focusing on the late 19th century, this exhibition will catapult you back to the glamorous glory days of Montmartre’s boho scene through letters, drawings, paintings and illustrations created by some of its most illustrious inhabitants.
Dates: February 13–May 31, 2020
5. Dance sevillanas at Feria
Seville’s iconic April Fair traditionally starts two weeks after the end of Holy Week. But even if you’ll be here earlier in the month, you can get into the spirit. Browse the colorful selection of flamenco dresses that fill local shops at this time of year, and consider checking out a dance class to brush up on your sevillanas.
When the big moment arrives, be sure to read our insider’s tips for the Seville fair so you know how to tackle any caseta like a pro!
2020 dates: April 26–May 2
