Visiting Seville Cathedral is an unforgettable experience that draws millions of tourists each year! If you’re planning your trip, here are some visitor-focused tips to make the most of this Andalusian gem.
Start by avoiding the crowds: the best time is early in the morning (from 10:30 AM, Monday to Saturday) or Sunday afternoons, when entry is free from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM (with prior online reservation). Note that capacity is limited, especially for the Giralda, so arrive early. Wear comfortable yet respectful clothing—cover shoulders and knees, as it’s a sacred site. If traveling with children or people with reduced mobility, there are accessible entrances, but the Giralda has steep ramps (no elevator), so consider if it’s feasible.
How to Get Tickets
The easiest way is to buy tickets online on the official website to save time and money: general admission costs €13 online (€14 at the ticket office). Reduced tickets are €6 for those over 65, students up to age 25, and others; free for Seville residents, children under 13 accompanied by an adult, those with significant disabilities, and the unemployed (with documentation). An audio guide is available for an extra €5 for more insights. Book Catedral de Sevilla Tickets here to skip long lines!
Explore the Giralda and Patio de los Naranjos
Once inside, don’t miss the Giralda: this iconic bell tower is climbed via ramps (35 in total, about 100 meters high) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Seville. Access is included in the general ticket, but start there due to its separate entrance and limited capacity. Then, unwind in the Patio de los Naranjos, an oasis with centuries-old orange trees, fountains, and a serene atmosphere perfect for photos. This former mosque’s ablution courtyard is part of the main route—ideal for a break before exploring the interior.
Practical Tips
Opening hours are 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Sundays), with last entry at 6:00 PM. If possible, opt for a guided tour (€20) to uncover hidden secrets. Your ticket also includes free entry to the Church of El Salvador.
History and Architecture
Seville Cathedral was built in the 15th century on the site of an Almohad mosque, making it the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architecture blends Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, with highlights like the Main Altarpiece (the largest in Christendom) and Christopher Columbus’ tomb.
