Seville Solo Travel: Safety & Neighborhood Guide (2024)

Planning an epic Seville solo travel adventure? With its sizzling hot tapas, sultry flamenco music, and stunning Spanish buildings, there are so many things that make Seville a solo female traveler’s paradise and the most popular city in southern Spain!

I absolutely loved my trip to Seville! Spain’s 4th largest city, Seville’s Old Town, or Casco Antiguo, contains three incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites within just 2 square miles: the Seville Cathedral, the Royal Alcazar and the General Archive of the Indies. I mean, okay, Seville.

The best part? Seville is an incredibly safe place for female travelers thanks to its friendly locals, well-lit streets, and secure hostels and hotels.

Seville is both the capital and the largest city in the region of Andalusia. This special place is absolutely brimming with beautiful orange trees, fascinating history, beautiful sites, to-die-for cuisine, and jaw-dropping palaces.

And we can’t forget all the fabulous shopping, and dazzling historic neighborhoods like Santa Cruz and Triana, two of the best neighborhoods for solo travellers in Seville.

In this guide, I’ve put together tips and recommendations from my experience and from local’s so you can plan an absolutely sensational solo trip to Seville. We’ll cover all the best tours, hotels, hostels, museums, and day trips. Plus, Andalusian wine, sherry, hiking, and how to meet new people in Spain’s most vibrant city!

Seville Solo Travel Safety Tips

Seville is a good place for both new and experienced solo travelers thanks to Spain’s safety, friendly locals, great hostels, and social food culture. Seville, in particular, is a walkable city and a great base for exploring Andalusia on tons of easy day trips.

While you can see the best of the city in one day if you choose to, 3 days is the ideal amount of time to explore Seville and fit in a day trip to other areas in Andalusia.

Seville is a very safe city for solo female travelers to visit. It’s well-lit at night, has a low crime rate, and is filled with public spaces where you’ll be surrounded by friendly locals even if you choose to explore on your own. If you plan to go out at night, know exactly how to get back to your hotel or hostel or plan to take a taxi home.

Before we cover the best things to do alone in Seville, plus what to eat and where to stay, there are a few important tips for solo travel in Seville that I want to share.

• Meal Times: It’s important to note that Spain has a unique set of rules when it comes to mealtimes. Breakfast spots open around 9 am, lunch is from 1:30-3:30 and dinner spots don’t open until 8:30. Check out my Spanish Food Guide for even more essential info.
• Siesta: Much of Spain still observes siesta hours from 2-5. Many local businesses, especially smaller shops and restaurants, may close so plan your day accordingly.
• Bread: is everywhere in Spain. They will bring you bread as soon as you’re seated and it may be accompanied by other tapas. Note that this is usually not free. You will pay for only what you eat so feel free to turn it away.
• Paella: More on this below, but you’ll want to be careful to avoid tourist traps that aren’t serving you the real thing!
• Cash: While many places accept cards, it’s always good to have some euros and coins on hand for smaller establishments, street vendors, and city buses.
• Making Friends: If you want to meet people in Seville, join hostel tours and pub crawls, even if you choose not to stay at one. You can also check out language exchanges and expat groups on Meetup.

Best Neighbourhood for Solo Travellers in Seville

Boasting a unique blend of history, culture, and charm, Seville is a city teeming with picturesque neighborhoods. From the enchanting Barrio Santa Cruz to the vibrant Triana, each neighborhood offers a distinct slice of Seville’s multifaceted charm.

The best neighborhoods for solo travellers are Santa Cruz and Centro thanks to their proximity to all the main sights and their safe reputations. For your second visit, I highly recommend staying in Triana or Alameda to get off the beaten tourist path and cultivate a feel for authentic daily life.

Read more about these neighborhoods below to decide where you most want to stay!

Quick Seville Neighborhood Guide

• Where to shop: Centro
• Where to sightsee: Sur & Barrio Santa Cruz
• Where the cool kids hang out: Alameda
• Where the locals are: Triana
• Where to watch flamenco: Barrio Santa Cruz
• Where to see bullfighting: El Arenal

Barrio Santa Cruz

Welcome to the most famous neighborhood in Seville! Located in the heart of the Old Town (Casco Antiguo), this used to be the city’s Jewish Quarter. Get lost in the maze of tiny streets, and visit landmarks like the Seville Catedral and Flamenco Museum (Museo del Baile Flamenco).

SIGHTS: Catedral, Giralda Bell Tower, Museo del Baile Flamenco, Calle Agua

El Arenal

Full of splendid boutique hotels, El Arenal sits next to Barrio Santa Cruz and El Centro in the Old Town (Casco Antiguo). Here you’ll find a ton of important Seville landmarks including Spain’s oldest bull ring (Plaza del Toros de la Real Maestranza)!

SIGHTS: Plaza del Cabildo, Torre del Oro, Plaza del Toros de la Real Maestranza

Centro

The busy commercial center of Seville, El Centro, is located just South of the Old Town (Casco Antiguo). Go shopping for traditional flamenco dresses in the traditional Andalusian shops along Calle Sierpes and Calle Tetuan.

Triana

Depart from the city center via the Old Triana Bridge and get a taste of local life in this authentic neighborhood. Don’t miss Calle Betis and its multi-colored facades alongside the river. Check out the historic tile workshops and potteries, or take a cooking class with visit to Mercado de Triana.

SIGHTS: Calle Betis, Mercado de Triana

Distrito Sur

Not to be missed in Distrito Sur is Plaza de España, the most famous square in Seville! Nearby, you’ll also find Parque Maria Luisa. You could spend hours wandering the beautiful gardens, fountains and pavilions.

SIGHTS: Plaza de España, Parque Maria Luisa, Palace of San Telmo

Alameda

Quirky art galleries, cool cafés, trendy bars, and vintage boutiques. You can find it all in Alameda, a once-unpopular neighbourhood that’s become Seville’s newest hipster hotspot.

A Brief History of Seville

Although it’s been said that Hercules himself founded Seville, this colorful Spanish city was once part of the Roman empire. (Name a European city that wasn’t though, right?)

This area was later conquered by the Moors, which was when incredible monuments like the Royal Alcazar were built. (Hello gorgeous Moorish architecture!)

A few hundred years later, in 1248, King Fernando III seizes control for the Catholics. The city thrives. Even more so after Christopher Colombus does his thing across the ocean blue and boom: Seville becomes one of the most important port cities in Europe, the Spanish expansion in full swing.

Moorish Architecture

You’ve seen the photos, your breath has been taken away, you’re dying to go! If you’re anything like me, it may have something to do with this hot topic: Moorish Architecture. But what is that, exactly? I was wondering too.

If it reminds you of Morocco then you’ve got a good eye! Moorish Architecture has an Islamic style featuring intertwining arches, central courtyards, riad gardens, intricately carved details, and decorative tile work. Absolute eye porn. I fell in love with the slender minaret towers and dazzling geometric patterns while traveling solo in Morocco and knew I had to visit Seville soon after.

Mudéjar = Islamic + Catholic Styles

It’s even more nuanced than that though. If you want all the deets, Seville’s architecture is actually Mudéjar architecture: a mix of Islamic and Catholic architectural styles. After the Catholics seized Seville from the Moors, they preserved many of the beautiful buildings like the Alcazar. Sometimes, they even added their own Catholic twist. The Cathedral’s Giralda Bell Tower is the perfect example of this.

The Birthplace of Flamenco

Pretty buildings aside, Seville is also said to be the birthplace of flamenco, a Spanish art form made up of three parts: guitar playing, singing, and dancing. The colorful twirling skirts, the rollercoaster of rhythm and the captivated crowd make flamenco an essential Spanish experience!

Flamenco originated in southern Spain, but is thought to be influenced by world cultures from Latin America and Cuba. Flamenco dancers try to express their deepest emotions by using body movements and facial expressions. You can’t visit Seville without catching a flamenco show. Lucky for you, the city has plenty!

When to Visit Seville

The best time to visit Seville is during the spring or fall for pleasantly warm weather, with average temperatures ranging from 61°F-75°F (16°C-24°C).

Summer can be scorching, with temperatures soaring above 95°F (35°C) or higher. Plus, it’s peak tourist season. Winter is mild compared to other parts of Europe, with temperatures averaging 46°F-63°F (8°C to 17°C). January and February tend to offer a more relaxed atmosphere totally free of crowds.

To experience one of Seville’s major cultural events and festivals, plan to visit around Semana Santa, or Holy Week, and Feria de Abril, or April Fair. Semana Santa, held in the week leading up to Easter, features impressive religious processions throughout the city, making it a culturally rich and visually stunning experience.

The Feria de Abril, typically held two weeks after Semana Santa, is a week-long celebration with flamenco dancing, horse parades, and traditional music, providing visitors with a fantastic glimpse into Andalusian culture and festivities.

Things to Do Alone in Seville

The best thing about traveling alone in Seville? You can do everything at your own pace! From stunning architecture to charming neighbors, this city is full of unique historical sites you can’t see anywhere else in the world!

Here are the best things to do alone on a solo trip to Seville, Spain:

The Alcazar

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a residence of the royal family, a filming location for Game of Thrones and the oldest Spanish royal palace still in use today! Infinitely enchanting, you could spend days admiring the palace buildings, lush gardens and dreamy courtyards. But don’t. You’ve got a lot of ground to cover! The most popular spots here are the Patio de Doncellas, Ambassador’s Hall, Baths of Maria Padilla and the Royal Gardens.

When I tell you how easy it is to get lost in this place… It’s huge! There’s tons to see and the grounds are especially large and maze-like. If you have a lot of time, it’s a great place to just roam and explore, but if you’re shorter on time, make sure you know exactly what you want to see.

It’s not too hard to get clear shots outside, but for Patio de Doncellas, your best shot at tourist-free photos is if you come right at the opening. I definitely recommend opting for the skip-the-line tickets with guided tour. I got very lost and it took me quite a while to find my way out of this place even when asking for directions… more than a couple of times.

• Hours: Daily 9:30-7:00 | Closes at 5pm Oct-Mar

Book your guided Royal Alcazar tour now!

María Luisa Park & Plaza de Espana

You’ll want to snap a photo everywhere at this gorgeous park and the city’s most famous square. I fell in love with Plaza de Espana when I visited on a warm September day.

The plaza was much larger than I’d anticipated. I wished I’d budgeted more time to explore the different levels, watch a free flamenco show, and drift downstream in one of the rowboats. It’s a gorgeous, super romantic spot perfect for couples or anyone who just loves romanticizing life. Definitely plan to spend 2-3 hours here.

Walking Tour

A walking tour of Seville offers an intimate encounter with the city’s rich history and sensational culture. Choose from guided tours covering the highlights of Seville or opt for a themed excursion like the Flamenco Walking Tour for a deeper look at the rhythmic world of this traditional dance. For Seville solo traveller’s on a budget, a free walking tour may be the best way to get to know this Spanish city on foot. Just be prepared to tip. After all, there’s no such thing as a tour that’s truly 100% free.

Casa de Pilatos

OMG, Casa de Pilatos. A bit of a hidden gem, this sumptuous 16th-century mansion in Seville’s historic district is totally swoon-worthy. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Seville Catedral. Full of ornate tiles, decorative arches, and windows perfect for the spilling through of brilliant Spanish sunshine, I could have stayed at Casa de Pilatos and its charming gardens all day. Grab your ticket now!

• Hours: Daily, 9am-6pm

Las Duenas Palace

Another incredible Sevillian palace, Las Duenas is another hidden gem full of with gorgeous staterooms, lush, green courtyards, and flower-filled gardens. Just look at this list of glamorous former occupants like Queen Victoria, Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly. If you have extra time in Seville, this is a lovely, somewhat quick addition to your itinerary. Purchase tickets here.

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 am-5:15 pm

Las Setas

This gigantic modern structure located in the Old Town is a fascinating juxtaposition to the rest of the city’s ornate buildings. Built in 2011, it’s worth a visit if just to get a great birds-eye view of the city from its viewing platform, but if you’re short on time, I wouldn’t make this your top priority. It was easily doable in under 30 minutes, but ultimately the view doesn’t really hold a candle to the city’s ornate historical buildings.

• Hours: Daily, 9:30am – 12:00am

Cathedral & La Giralda Bell Tower

Conveniently located in the Old Town, this iconic landmark is a must-see to get a feel for what the Mudéjar architecture is all about. Many love to tour the cathedral and climb the bell tower, but I skipped this in favor of time at the Moorish palaces. If you’re keen on going, you could always combine the cathedral with a guided tour of the Alcazar.

• Hours: 10:45 am-5:00 pm | 2:30-6 on Sunday

Flamenco Show

Flamenco is a Spanish art form made up of three parts: guitar playing, singing, and dancing. Flamenco originated in southern Spain but is thought to be influenced by world cultures from Latin America and Cuba. Flamenco dancers try to express their deepest emotions by using body movements and facial expressions. A trip to southern Spain isn’t complete without an evening spent enjoying this mesmerizing performance. Venues across the city offer shows nightly, or you can book a group experience.

Get Lost in Santa Cruz

Sightseeing in the city’s ancient Jewish quarter, Barrio Santa Cruz, is a must. With its narrow, winding streets, hidden plazas, and stunning architecture, this area provides a deep dive into Seville’s rich history. After checking out the Cathedral, make a beeline for Calle Agua, said to be one of the prettiest streets in the city.

Cordoba Day Trip

Located just 45 minutes away by train, there’s no better way to explore more of Andalusia than on a day trip to Cordoba from Seville. This city has its fair share of delicious tapas and gorgeous architecture like the Mezquita. Famous for having the world’s most beautiful inner courtyards, be sure to visit in May to check out the flower-filled Festival of the Patios where you can see the Cordoba come alive with colorful blossoms.

Granada Day Trip

A day trip to Granada from Seville is a popular choice thanks to the city’s historical grandeur. Spend a full day exploring the iconic Alhambra Palace and the winding streets of the Albayzín district. The high-speed AVE train can get you there in less than three hours or you could book a guided tour for easy, convenient transport and a knowledgeable guide.

Tapas Tour

When in Spain, tapas are a must. As a big solo traveller, food tours have been my favorite way to discover new cuisine and make friends at the same time! Many tours take you to places you never would have found on your own.

If this sounds like fun to you, you can check out tours from Devour Tours, my absolute favorite foodie tour guides, or see a few more options below that explore the different neighborhoods in Seville.

Book an epic tapas tour in Seville now!

Admire Azulejos in Triana

The charming and colorful district of Triana is across the river from the Old Town. While not the best spot for any historic spectacles, Triana is the perfect place to get a feel for local life. This authentic quarter is known for its ceramics, pottery, and traditional azulejos tiles.

These blue and white tiles are everywhere in Portugal and Andalusia. If you love learning about history through art, Portugal solo travel may be just the thing for you! You’ll find tons of impressive murals made of azulejos while exploring historic cities like Lisbon and Porto.

Visit Seville’s Museums

Spending a day alone in Seville’s museums is a great chance to experience the rich tapestry of Spanish art, history, and culture at your own pace.

From the masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts to the fascinating artifacts at the Archaeological Museum, you have the freedom to explore and reflect without any disturbances. Does that sound peaceful or what?

• Flamenco Museum: An exciting foray into the fiery heart of Spanish dance and music traditions.
• Museum of Fine Arts: Housed in a majestic 17th-century convent, gain deep insight into the region’s artistic heritage through their collection dating back to medieval times.
• Castillo San Jorge: Explore a network of underground passageways at the former headquarters and now official museum of the Spanish Inquisition.
• Archaeological Museum: A treasure trove of ancient artifacts spanning the prehistoric era to the Roman period.
• Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions: Explore Andalusian culture through an array of regional crafts, ceramics, textiles, and traditional costumes.
• Hospital de los Venerables: Get off the beaten path with this unique museum that was once a priest retirement home and now houses the collection of Spanish painter, Diego Velázquez.

Hiking

The Cerro del Hierro, located in the Sierra Norte Natural Park just an hour drive north of Seville, is a remarkable hiking destination. The trail spans approximately 4 kilometers and is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for most hiking enthusiasts. To reach the starting point, head towards the town of San Nicolas del Puerto and follow the signs for Cerro del Hierro.

Solo Dining in Seville

Eating alone can be one of the hardest parts of traveling solo. Luckily, Spain has an incredible food culture and restaurants with relaxed, social atmospheres. Plus, the food in Seville is so good, you’ll barely notice your dining by yourself!

If you want to eat like the locals, try some of the dishes below:

• Jamon (Ham): I hope you like ham, because the Spanish like to eat it with everything. Dry-cured ham is a staple of Spanish cuisine. Jamon serrano is similar to prosciutto, and the most expensive type is called jamón iberico de bellota which comes from acorn-fed black pigs.
• Patatas Bravas: Literally meaning “brave potatoes,” this dish consists of cubed white potatoes smothered in a delicious, spicy tomato sauce, almost like an aioli. Despite the intimidating name, I don’t actually find this dish to be all that spicy.
• Tortilla Espanola: In Spain, a tortilla is actually an omelet. The typical omelet dish is made with just eggs, potatoes, and sometimes onion cooked in olive oil. It resembles more of a quiche than a typical omelet. Such a simple dish, and never an overwhelmingly eggy flavor.
• Salmorejo: A cold, creamy tomato soup often topped with olive oil and ham. It sounds basic, but man is this soup good. I’m hoping to learn how to make it at home soon.
• Rabo de Toro: Literally meaning ‘tail of the bull,’ this is the Spanish take on oxtail and an Andalusian specialty. It’s a heavy, flavorful stew with minimal ingredients and braised oxtail.
• Cochinillo Asado: Roasted suckling pig, another Andalusian specialty. Personally, I did not have the heart to try this, but have heard it is absolutely delicious.
• Flamenquines: A delectable Spanish dish composed of pork loin enveloped in serrano ham slices, followed by a crisp layer of breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection.
• Gazpacho: Perfect for the summer heat, Gazpacho is a chilled Andalusian soup with a refreshing blend of tomatoes, peppers, garlic, cucumbers, oil, vinegar, and salt, garnished with diced ham.
• Pescaíto Frito: The Pescaíto frito is a classic Seville street food dish, consisting of medley of fried fish, including anchovies, squid, and cuttlefish, all coated in flour and fried in hot oil.
• Espinacas con Garbanzos: A quintessential dish in Seville, especially during Easter, espinacas con garbanzos is a flavorful fusion of chickpeas and spinach, individually cooked and then combined with an assortment of spices in a skillet. It’s pretty much the same as the Indian dish, chana saag.

Restaurants in Seville

Feeling hungry? These Seville restaurants have delicious food and the perfect atmosphere for anyone embarking on solo travel to Seville!

• Filo $ (Centro) – All days begin with coffee. Grab your cold brew and a quick breakfast in this charming spot and get ready to hit the town. 
• El Pinton $$ (Centro) – Dine in a patio-like terrace at El Pinton. The restaurant is beautifully decorated and with equally photogenic food to match the aesthetic. It’s a great place to grab lunch after visiting the Cathedral or if you are around the area.
• ON (Ovejas Negras) $$ (Bario Santa Cruz) – Close to the Cathedral, this modern tapas bar serves yummy food and has a great atmosphere. Make sure to arrive early as this spot gets busy quickly.
• Abantal $$$$ (Barrio Santa Cruz) – Led by local chef Julio Fernandez Quintero this is the only Michelin Star restaurant in town.
• Manolo Leon $$ (Alameda & Old Town) – With two charming locations in trendy Alameda and the central Old Town, you’ll want to order all the tapas as you dine on their charming terraces.
• The Corner House $$ (Alameda) – A gastronomic hotel? Say no more. The reasonably priced restaurant/Tapería El Disparate was recently included in the 2022 Spain & Portugal Michelin Guide. The rooftop terrace is an absolute must.
• Mercado Lonja del Barranco $ (El Arenal) – This is a cute market to visit for a pre-dinner drink and tapa. While there are plenty of stands serving excellent street food, I wouldn’t make this market my only stop of the evening.
• Mercado de Triana $ (Triana) – Just across the bridge from Mercado Lona del Barranco, this market seemed much more traditional and was packed with locals. They have an Arrozeria that I didn’t get to try, but looked phenomenal.
• Alcazares $ (Old Town) – This cute spot tucked away close to the Las Setas was something I stumbled upon while traveling between destinations. I absolutely loved the vibes, the salmorejo and the friendly staff.
• Vegan Rock $ (Triana): Vegans, rejoice! There’s a charming vegan tapas bar made just for you. This place offers a vegan twist on classic Spanish dishes, ranging from patatas bravas to classic tortilla. (For more vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Seville, head here.)
• Virgin Coffee $ (Old Town): Caffeine fix, incoming. This teeny tiny spot near Las Setas was Seville’s first specialty coffee shop!
• Sick of tapas? I’m not sure how that could be humanly possible, but, alas, Seville has plenty of Peruvian street food and other tasty international fare to fill you up.

Best Places Stay in Seville

Seville is a tremendous spot to visit when traveling alone to Spain. Not only are the locals super friendly, but there are also tons of international travelers exploring the city. Staying in a hostel was the best way to meet as many people as possible.

Full of comfort, safety, and social atmospheres, here are some of the best hostels and hotels for solo travellers in Seville.

For You Hostel Seville

Neighborhood: Old Town
Price: $

I loved staying at For You Hostel Seville. It was very #aesthetic and cute with plenty of space for me to work. All in all, I just met the nicest people staying here. It was always clean, and definitely not a party hostel. They did have bar crawls you could join, but anyone who needed a good night’s sleep had no trouble getting one.

The Nomad Hostel

Neighborhood: Old Town
Price: $

The Nomad Hostel is a recently renovated traditional Sevillian house in the heart of the city. Run by locals and experienced backpackers, they offer weekly tapas and walking tours. Give this gorgeous hostel a try or check out our list of the 5 prettiest hostels in Seville. BUDGET

The Corner House

Neighborhood: Alameda
Price: $

Want to stay where the cool kids stay? Same. The Corner House is a gastronomic hotel (!!!) in the heart of the trendy neighborhood of Alameda de Hércule. Stay here to experience the authentic local atmosphere of Seville. See you there?

Casa del Rey Sabio

Neighborhood: Old Town
Price: $

Casa del Rey Sabio was once a 12th-century Islamic palace. Now fully converted into a gorgeous boutique hotel, it includes a gorgeous rooftop patio complete with a pool and the perfect view of central Seville.

Hotel Alfonso XIII

Neighborhood: El Arenal
Price: $$$

If you’re looking for luxury, look no further! Hotel Alfonso XIII is located in an extravagant building that was commissioned by the King of Spain in 1929. You’ll never want to leave this gorgeous property. But with this price tag, you might have to.

Lemon Garden Hostel

Neighborhood:
Price: $

Tucked away in a leafy neighborhood, Lemon Garden Hostel offers a chill place for young travelers to stay. It offers both mixed and female-only dorms with bunk beds, free Wi-Fi, lockers, and shared restrooms. Linens and towels are provided. Guests enjoy free evening sangria and walking tours. The hostel has a garden with a pool, bar, hammocks, BBQ grill, and shared kitchen and lounge.

Oasis Backpackers Palace

Neighborhood: Old Town
Price: $

Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel is perfect for social solo travels. They have plenty of city tours, plus a lively atmosphere and robust amenities, from communal cooking sessions to a fun rooftop pool. Plus, its prime location serves as a gateway to Seville’s key attractions, making it an ideal base for an unforgettable solo adventure.

Hotel Ateneo Seville

Neighborhood: Old Town
Price: $$

Hotel Ateneo Seville is the perfect place for a romantic weekend. This opulent Renaissance palace is close to plenty of sights, shops and restaurants. If you can bring yourself to leave, that is!

Hotel Casa del Poeta

Neighborhood: Barrio Santa Cruz
Price: $$

Hotel Casa del Poeta is a restored 17th-century mansion located in the heart of Barrio Santa Cruz. With a colorful courtyard, stunning details, and an ideal location, I’m already drooling. This boutique hotel is the perfect place for any who loves design-forward spaces.

How to Budget for a Trip to Seville

Exploring Europe can be as economical or as extravagant as you wish, with multiple choices available for budget-conscious, mid-range, and luxury travelers.

When it comes to dining, the spectrum is just as broad. You have the option to stay at a hostel and prepare your own meals, discover budget-friendly eateries, or indulge in lavish Michelin-starred feasts. For me, the ideal approach is a balanced one – save a bit on certain things, and allow for a splurge on others!

If frugality is your aim, consider traveling during the shoulder season. Once, I managed to secure a return flight from the US to Spain for just shy of $500. (In the summer, I would anticipate a cost of around $1500.) Even though it was the middle of January, the climate in Spain was much more pleasant than back home in the States. Plus, the absence of the intense summer heat and throngs of tourists was a welcome bonus!

How to Get Around Seville

Good news: Seville is super walkable! In fact, I found that the size of this city was ideal for solo travel. Large enough that there was plenty to offer, but not so sprawling that you have the big city stress of long travel times and too much congestion.

Getting from the train station to my accommodation near the city center was easy enough with a bus that went straight there. From the airport, you can choose between a bus or taxi, with clear signage out front to steer you in the right direction. The airport is only about 10 miles (12km) from the city center.

If you choose to fly into Seville, most cities in Spain offer a direct flight as well as London, Lisbon, and a few cities in Morocco.

Here are some tips for navigating the city:

• Walk: Navigating Seville on foot is a breeze. The city center is compact and is easily traversed on foot. A brisk walk from the Universidad de Sevilla to Plaza Nueva, passing through el Parque María Luisa, takes no more than 20 minutes.
• Bicycle: Bike riding is another easy option for getting around, given the flat landscape of Seville. There are public places to rent bikes from near every major landmark. Just be careful when dealing with the traffic.
• Tram: The city’s tram service operates from the heart of the city to the San Bernardo railway station, beginning at 6 in the morning until 1:30 at night. Tickets can be purchased at the station.
• Metro: If you plan to venture outside the city, the metro is your best bet. The fare for each ride is approximately €1.30.
• Bus: Buses operate from early morning at 6 until late night at 11:15. Tickets can be purchased onboard or you can opt for the Target Multiviaje, a rechargeable card with a minimum balance of €7. The fare for a single journey is around €1.50. Just make sure you have exact change!
• Rideshare: Ubers and taxis are available as well. I found the rates equivalent to a small city in the States.

Basic Spanish Phrases

While you can get around Seville easily speaking English, it always helps to know some basic Spanish phrases. These will help you navigate day-to-day interactions, from dining at local eateries to exploring the city’s rich heritage.

• Hola – Hello
• Buenos días – Good morning
• Buenas tardes – Good afternoon
• Buenas noches – Good night
• ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
• Gracias – Thank you
• Por favor – Please
• Lo siento – I’m sorry
• ¿Dónde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom?
• No hablo español – I don’t speak Spanish.
• ¿Puedo ver el menú, por favor? – Can I see the menu, please?
• Quisiera ordenar – I would like to order
• ¿Me puede traer la cuenta, por favor? – Can you bring me the bill, please?

Where to Go After Seville Solo Travel

After a fabulous stay in Seville, where should you head next? Seville is often combined with other Spanish cities. Madrid in fall is especially lovely, and has plenty of great hostels for solo travellers. Nearby Portugal is also filled with great things to do alone in Lisbon and incredible beaches in Cascais. No matter where you go next, you’ll take your take your memories of Seville with you forever.

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