The Best Things to do in Seville Spain with Kids
If you're hoping to avoid the cold, booking a getaway way now is the best time for winter sun! Does the idea of warmer temperatures and blue skies appeal during this frosty period at home? Southern Spain is always a great place to consider and the perfect option if you have children.
Looking back at our most memorable trips, we would definitely advise planning a trip to Seville Spain. This is one of the best places to visit with children as there is plenty of space to play, temperatures are a balmy 12 degrees in winter and there are lovely gardens to hang out in. If you're tempted this is where to stay in Seville.
Without question Seville is worth visiting, you will be spoilt for choice from the many beautiful sights, tiny, narrow streets, amazing ceramics and of course the historic center.
From the middle ages Seville's history is that of a fascinating city with an important port, becoming the economic centre of the Spanish Empire and being part of rapid industrialisation with the building of rail connections across Europe.
The ancient part of this Spanish city is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Seville boasts one of the largest historic centers in Europe, with three places listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. These are the Cathedral, the Alcazar and the Archive of the Indies.
Despite this being a city with cultural siginificance it's surprisingly easy to visit with children. There's lots to see for different age groups. It suits little ones who just need to run about and burn off some energy. The food is fantastic and delicious tapas is available in cute bars which hug the corners of the buildings. Spanish people are very accomodating with children which always helps the parents have a great time!
So with this in mind, here are our top things to do in if you'd love a holiday in Spain with kids!
When you start to get your bearings around Seville, you'll notice the old Jewish Quarter 'Barrio Santa Cruz' neighborhood is central to most of the tourist attractions you will want to visit. This is where you'll find the Royal Palace and Cathedral which are close to each other in central Seville. The city center is very walkable which is partly why it suits families so well.
Catedral De Sevilla
Seville Cathedral is the fourth largest cathedral in the world! Despite this impressive fact most people visit for a different reason. Inside you will find a box which appears to be a coffin, held by statues of four men who are there to represent the four kingdoms of Spain back in 1400s.
They are carrying the remains of a very famous man, the tomb of Christopher Columbus! Seville has a strong claim to a connection with Christopher Columbus. He was initially buried in the city in the early 1500s and Queen Isabel signed her contract with him for the campaigns in the New World in this city. This is a great history lesson for your children, there's no better way to learn than seeing things with your own eyes.
Lastly if you have older children you can try the cathedral roof tour which is quite an experience.
La Giralda Tower
The Giralda is the famous bell tower of the Cathedral of Seville, it was built as the minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville in al-Andalus, Moorish Spain. This is a slim tower which has a balcony, which is why it provides the best vantage point to take in the immense scale of the cathedral. I would recommend this only for around age 7 years and upwards.
Real Alcazar Palace & Gardens
This pretty spot is home to the Real Alcazar of Seville, a royal residence and palace built for King Peter on the site of an Islamic fort. Here you'll find opulent decor and lavish gold details, incredible ceramic tiles - which I love! The gardens are stunning with palm trees, fountains, and over 20,000 plants from fruit trees to bougainvillea.
These beautiful gardens are a great way to let your children enjoy being outdoors with no restrictions and to get some fresh air.
Jewish Quarter
This area is now the main tourist zone of Seville. Don't let the tourists put you off though. It's a lovely part of the city and the tangle of streets and white houses are a charming place to wander with your children.
There's no main attraction here, the aim is to meander and observe the small squares and sweet shops and cafes. We loved the Plaza Doña Elvira which was full of Spanish families out having an apertif with their children running about and babies in beautiful gowns in their vintage prams.
Las Setas
The giant Mushrooms of Seville are called Metropol Parasol, Las Setas or Setas de Seville. This is believed to be the largest wooden structure in the world. Your children will love looking at the huge mushrooms curving over the square. You can take in the views from the panoramic walkway if your children are old enough.
This is such an unusual attraction, your kids will remember and talk about it for years!
Traditional Flamenco Show
How could you visit Spain on holiday and not visit one of these! Flamenco is part of Spain's national identity. It's even been recognised by UNESCO as a part of World Intangible Culture Heritage.
The Museo del Baile Flamenco is both a small museum and the place to see live performances. Here you'll find dresses and displays to view before watching the show.
Calle Sierpes
At some point we're sure your children will want to find a little souvenir. This is the time to head to Calle Sierpes and browse the shops selling everything you might need from the usual magnets to embroidery and flamenco gowns.
We didn't find it too tacky, compared with many comercial centers it was a pleasant experience and our children got something to take home. I actually enjoyed the shopping trip and found some lovely women's stores.
Famous Plaza De Espana
A vast semi-circular place for when your children are in need of a real sprint!
Plaza de Espana is surrounded by stunning tiled areas all around you, showing the provinces of Spain. It’s hard not to stop and view every single one!
Most famous now maybe, due to the filming of Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. If your children are Star Wars fans they will find it exciting that Plaza de Espana was the Theed Palace!
Maria Luisa Park
This lush botanical garden was a haven for us on our visit. Full of palm and orange trees and many other exotic plants, you feel a world away from modern life.
The gardens are large with wide boulevards, water features and fountains with lions! If you're visiting in winter you will enjoy a chance to go for a stroll whith mild temperatures. If you go in summer this is a perfect place with lots of helpful shade.
Plaza De Toros De La Real Maestranza
Most visitors to Seville will have heard about its history with bull fighting. Plaza de toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería is the oldest bullring in Spain.
As you are bringing children you may decide this is not something you would like to visit. However, you can learn about this custom without needing to see a bullfight. There are tours available where you are taken into the arena and other parts of the stadium without causing any upset.
Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium
Due to my being a bit of a football widow! On our visit we had to go and see the Seville football stadium. I have an Italian husband and two mini football players so I was outnumbered!
This stadium is the home of Sevilla Fútbol Club, which is named after the club's former president, Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán.
It has been the location for some special footballing moments such as the venue for the 1986 European Cup Final and the 1982 World Cup semi-final game. Plus more recently the place of the 2022 Europa League final. If none of this means much to you we are in good company!
For my family this was a great, mini day trip from the city. You can buy tickets to tour the club and there is a free audio guide as well.
I hope you found this a useful family guided tour of Seville. Great holidays with children need a bit of balance. Some history, delicious snacks, fresh air and nature. Seville has all this and keeps you pleasantly warm as you explore. We can't wait to go back.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.