Where to Stay in Seville: The Best Neighbourhoods to Know

From cosy hotspots in the centre of town to fortress-like luxury in the hills. Here are the best places to stay in Seville.

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Where to Stay in Seville

Stepping into the sun-kissed city of Seville is like stepping into a glorious palette of mosaic tiles, flamenco rhythms, and salty tapas.

But if you’re wondering where to stay in Seville, you’re right to take the time to stop and think. Each of Seville’s best neighbourhoods has its own distinct character and ease of access to the main sites.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to Seville’s neighbourhoods, to help you plan your perfect trip to Seville. I lived in Seville for four glorious years as a travel writer and hotel reviewer and it’s one of my favourite places in the world.

So, come journey with me through winding alleyways beneath the shade of orange trees, as we explore neighbourhoods and accommodation suited to different rhythms of travel.

The Best Neighbourhoods & Areas to Stay in Seville

Seville’s neighbourhoods, or barrios, each have plenty of character. You’ll be hard pressed to find a dull part of the city.

Despite being one of Spain’s biggest cities, the main points of interest cluster together near the historic centre and so this isn’t a place where you’ll need a car or spend time worrying about the the metro.

Equally, in a city where dinner starts at ten and theatre at midnight, if you want a quiet night’s sleep and an early night, it may be best to stay out of town at the Carmona Parador instead.

Santa Cruz neighbourhood in Seville Spain

Santa Cruz: Best for Sightseeing

The Santa Cruz neighbourhood is probably the most famous part of the city. This former Jewish Quarter is now a cacophony of narrow streets and orange trees. It’s drenched in history, with the UNESCO World Heritage site of Seville Cathedral and the Real Alcazar just steps away. Plus, every street corner seems to ooze with traditonal symbols of Seville: flamenco dresses, jamon and ceramics.

With that said, the gorgeous Old Jewish Quarter with its narrow streets and uneven surfaces does make it difficult for wheeling along suitcases and sometimes impossible for taxis to drive along. Only stay right in its heart if you’re happy carrying your own luggage for 50-100 metres or so in the heat. Otherwise, great options close to but not in the centre include the Alfonso and the Hotel Dona Maria.

The Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Visit the Real Alcazar, the royal palace where Columbus was granted permission to try to find the New World.
Gaze up at the Giralda, the top landmark in Seville
Enjoy the narrow streets of Santa Cruz and watch flamenco

Our Top Choice in Santa Cruz

Luxury: the iconic Hotel Alfonso XIII, part of the Luxury Collection Hotel Trust, is a city icon with its stunning interior, outdoor pool and manicured courtyards.
Boutique Hotel: Casa del Poeta, with its beautifully restored 17th-century charm and tranquil central patio, fits the bill brilliantly.
Hotel Doña Maria: overlooks La Giralda with the city’s most well placed rooftop bar.

Alfalfa: Best for Tapas

Situated in the heart of the city, Alfalfa combines old-world charm with a contemporary atmosphere. Its meandering, narrow streets reflect its Moorish heritage, adorned with whitewashed buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and lively tiles.

This district’s central location makes it a hub of activity, with squares like Plaza de la Alfalfa and Plaza del Salvador serving as popular meeting spots for both locals and tourists.

Alfalfa is also a culinary hotspot, with numerous tapas bars and restaurants offering a taste of Seville’s renowned cuisine.

The Best Things to Do in Alfalfa

Visit the tranquil Casa de Pilatos, a 16th century Andalusian palace.
Enjoy tapas away from the tourist crowds.

Our Top Choices for The Best Hotels in Alfalfa

Boutique: Corral del Ray – set in a refurbished 17th-century mansion, offers comfort intertwined with features like a rooftop terrace and wood-panelled rooms.
Amadeus – revered for its music-themed interiors and enchanting central courtyard.

Centro: Best for Families

Conveniently positioned, Centro is at an easy 0.9km stroll from the towering Torre del Oro and an even shorter walk to the landmark La Giralda. Within Centro itself, you’ll find the open Plaza Nueva and Seville’s Town Hall. While it’s less exciting and atmospheric than Santa Cruz, it is easier with pushchairs and taxis and the like.

The Best Things to Do in Centro

Admire the Ayuntamiento or Town Hall
Shop for ceramics, clothes and other souvenirs from Seville
It’s a short walk to many of the city’s main landmarks

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in Centro

Luxury: Mercer Sevilla with its rooftop pool, private rooms and the city centre at your doorstep.
Boutique: Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla, with wooden floors and hot tubs.
Affordable: Hotel Baco offers comfort, free WiFi, and a great location.

Colourful riverside houses in Triana Seville, Spain

Triana: Best for a Bit of Bohemia

The Triana neighbourhood, across the languid Guadalquivir River, extends an invitation to a more local life, amidst world famous ceramic workshops and Seville’s main fresh food market.

It’s only a short walk across the iconic Triana Bridge to the city’s main attractions. Plus, taking a riverside stroll along Triana is one of the best things to do in Seville.

Read more about what to do in Triana here.

The Best Things to Do in Triana

Visit the Triana market to understand more about food in Seville
Visit the ceramic workshops who make the world famous azulejos
Sip aperitivos and overlook the river and the Torre del Oro

Our Top Choices for The Best Hotels in Triana

Luxury: The Zenit Sevilla has a rooftop terrace overlooking the Guadalquivir River.
Affordable: Monte Triana, a 3-star hotel has a handy location.

Torre del Oro in El Arenal Seville Spain

El Arenal: Best for Riverside Walks

El Arenal runs from the river to La Giralda, including the 13th century watchtower the Torre del Oro. It’s an easy location, then, with access to waterside strolls and just a little quieter than the heart of Santa Cruz.

The Best Things to Do in El Arenal

Visit the Torre del Oro, where gold used to be counted on its arrival from the “New World.”
Stroll along the river at sunset and picture when this was Spain’s busiest port.

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in El Arenal

Luxury: Hotel EME Catedral lures guests with its sun-soaked terrace and a swimming pool that overlooks the Catedral de Sevilla.
Intimate: Hotel Las Casas de El Arenal offers the perfect refuge, only 0.3km away.
Budget: Cool Sevilla, a scant 0.6km from Casco Antiguo, blends affordability with comfort and a central location.

Hercules statue in Alameda Seville, Spain

Alameda: The Best for Nightlife

With buzzing nightlife and innovative dining, Alameda provides a break from the traditional, flamenco-filled side of Seville.

The neighbourhood throbs with the rhythm of urban life, which focuses around La Alameda de Hércules Square. Yet it’s still within walking distance of all the main central sights.

The Best Things to Do in Alameda

Dance the night away!
Take children to the splash pad in summer.

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in Alameda

Laid-back: Petit Palace Canalejas Sevilla, offering guests modern comforts and proximity to city attractions.
Boutique luxury: Hotel Palacio De Villapanés has an elegant mix of baroque charm and contemporary design.

Flowers line an archway in Maria Luisa park Seville, Spain

Distrito Sur: The Best for Families

Distrito Sur is the epitome of a residential district, radiating a warm and welcoming vibe, which is popular among young people and families. This district, with its lush green spaces, is just 1.3km from Seville’s historic centre.

Parque de María Luisa, a lush sprawl occupying 34 hectares, is a mere 0.6km walk away, while the resplendent Plaza de España, an embodiment of Renaissance Revival architecture, is exactly 1.2km to the north.

The Best Things to Do in Distrito Sur

Enjoy the gorgeous María Luisa park
Explore the ceramics and grandeur of Plaza de España

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in Distrito Sur

Homely: Hotel Pasarela, a 4-star hotel right at the park gates.
Chic: Meliá Lebreros offers avant-garde designs, an inviting pool area, and El Burladero, its coveted gourmet restaurant.

Los Remedios: Best for Quiet

Los Remedios is a swanky residential district, more a favourite with locals than the typical tourist crowd. The neighbourhood is a snapshot of Seville’s more contemporary face but it still lies within approximately 1km of the historic city centre and the main attractions.

Best Things to Do in Los Remedios

Dine and drink at authentic places far from the tourist crowds.

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in Los Remedios

Boutique: Monte Carmelo, a much-loved option.
Modern: Petit Palace Canalejas delivers modern interiors enveloped by a historic Sevilla exterior.
Affordable: Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza

Colourful buildings in La Macarena Seville, Spain

La Macarena: Best Alternative Barrio

No, not the dance. The neighbourhood of La Macarena lies further out from the city centre and was once one of the poorest parts of the city.

Some areas are undergoing something of a renaissance – but others aren’t so book and walk with care.

If you’re here to watch the football, though, it’s only 15 minutes by car from Sevilla FC’s stadium.

Best Things to do in La Macarena

Head out to watch the football

Our Recommendations for The Best Hotels in La Macarena

Modern: Hotel Patio de La Alameda is known for its 20th-century aesthetics and charming inner courtyard.
Arty: Hotel Convento La Gloria, with its gothic displays and vibrant tiles.

How Many Days Do You Need in Seville?

With three days in your pocket, you can swirl around the core flamboyance of Seville – embracing the regal romance of the Real Alcazar and the towering grandeur of the Seville Cathedral.

But, if your heart beats in tune with flamenco rhythms, stretch out your visit to five days. This will allow for leisurely afternoons and taking your time.

And always consider extending your stay to see the nearby stunners of Cordoba and Granada. Here’s a guide on how to plan an itinerary through southern Spain to help you out.

Tips for Staying in Seville

Of course, wondering where to stay in Seville is only part of the puzzle. When planning your trip, bear in mind the following…

Don’t Stress Too Much About Where You Stay

With 60.5% of the city’s main tourist attractions within a comfortable 2km radius, you can’t go too far wrong. Use landmarks like the Seville Cathedral and Alcázar Palace to help you work out where things are on maps of Seville.

But don’t ignore the smaller neighbourhoods like La Macarena.

But Match Your Hotel to Your Travel Style

For a luxurious stay, Hotel Alfonso XIII and Gran Meliá Colon feature rooms draped in opulence. These luxury hotels offer more than just lavish accommodations; they are part of the history of the city.

Conversely, budget hotels such as Hotel Baco and Cool Sevilla blend affordability with comfort.

Boutique hotels, as the name suggests, bring charm to the forefront, from Hotel Casa Del Poeta’s tranquility-inducing central patio to Casa del Conde de Barajas’ elegance.

Pack Your Walking Shoes

Seville is a city that begs to be explored on foot, but for those a little less inclined towards pedestrian pursuits, you will also find a public transport systems of 120 buses and four tram lines provide as well as a metro.

Furthermore, the popular bike rental service, Sevici, boasts 260 stations dotted throughout the city – conveniently placed to whisk you from one sight to another.

Check the Calendar

While Seville is interesting all year round, the best time to visit is during the spring (March to June) and Fall (September to November). These periods provide respite from the scorching summer sun and tourist crowds.

Go Off the Beaten Track

Yes, La Giralda is lovely. But also, savour the flavours of local dishes served at the neighbourhood joints of Triana, walk along the ancient city walls of Macarena and immerse yourself in a Flamenco show in Alfalfa.

Join in the Celebrations

Coordinating your visit with Seville’s cultural events deepens your understanding of its culture. And there are two main events which have to be seen to be believed.

Witness the devotion and drama of the Semana Santa (Holy Week) or take part in dancing during the Feria de Abril (April Fair). These events take over the whole city in a show of piety and revelry respectively.

Tuck in

Exploring Seville’s culinary scene is a core part of any trip. Relish traditional tapas at establishments like El Rinconcillo and Las Golondrinas. Visit Vinos y Licores Cabello in Alameda, an old-school wine shop, to enjoy local wines. Learn more with our guide to what to eat in Seville here.

Pace Yourself

Seville has a plethora of attractions: outstanding architecture, intriguing museums, and soothing gardens. Trying to see everything in just one day will finish you off.

Instead, prioritise your favourite spots, and pace yourself over several days. Make sure you take the time to relax and people watch. You are in Andalusia after all!

Embrace the Siesta

It’s not a myth, Seville continues the Spanish tradition of the afternoon ‘Siesta,’ during which many establishments are closed. Match your schedule to this cultural pattern by saving indoor activities or breaks for this period. Or, you know, have a nap yourself.

Lastly, Embrace Spontaneity

Seville is not a city that loves a strict timetable. So embrace the spontaneity, be flexible with your plans and try not to be in a rush.

Where Not to Stay in Seville

Every city has its no go areas but luckily, the most dangerous areas in Seville are out of town and you’d be unlucky to arrive there by accident.

El Vacie, Las 3000 Viviendas, Los Pajaritos, and Polígono Norte are generally on the list of places to avoid.

And Nervión is just that bit too far away from the centre to be useful.

FAQs

Where to Stay in Seville with Kids?

Seville, and Andalusia in general, is a hugely welcoming environment for families. The narrow, cobbled streets, though, do not make it easy with pushchairs, strollers, car seats and the like.

If you have older children, it’s easy to stay in central Santa Cruz. With younger ones, you may prefer to stay in Triana where access is slightly easier.

Wherever you stay, though, you’re likely to hear street noise and parties, as even grandparents and children join in the after dark fun.

Where to Stay in Seville for One Night?

If you have only one night in Seville, then stay either at the Doña Maria Hotel or at the iconic Hotel Alfonso XIII. The former is right in the heart of the action with an unforgettable view of La Giralda. The latter is an institution in itself.

Where to Stay in Seville on a budget?

Seville is a reasonably priced city with plenty of hostels and budget options amid the grandeur. Our top pick would be Cool Sevilla.

Where to stay in Seville for the First time?

First timers to Seville should stay within walking distance of La Giralda, so either in Santa Cruz or El Arenal. Our top picks would be Hotel Doña Maria or Hotel Alfonso XIII.

Where to Stay in Seville Without a Car?

In short, it’s best not to bring a car to Seville. The centre has tiny, tiny streets that even taxi drivers can’t get down. If you’re visiting Seville as part of a road trip through southern Spain, then I’d recommend staying in Triana where it’s slightly easier to park than across the river.

Our top pick, therefore, if you’re staying in Seville with a car would be to stay at the Zenit Sevilla.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Seville

A stay in the centre means you’ll never be far from a tapas bar and the chance to dance, whereas out of town places provide staggering views across the Andalusian countryside.

Travel Tips for Seville

Check out this southern Spain itinerary and plan your own road trip through Andalucia and get your free Seville checklist here.

What to Eat in Seville

Tapas bars and restaurants crowd around Triana market and along the shores of the Guadaluquivir. They’re great for fresh food and people watching and, as in many places in Andalusia, you won’t be hurried along. See alsomy guide to the best tapas in Seville and where to eat.

What to Buy in Seville

Triana Market makes a good spot to stock up on authentic Seville souvenirs, such as ines rosales, mantecados, jamon, olive oil and, of course, fresh fruit and veg.