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Essential Tips for Traveling to Sevilla, Spain for the First Time



Essential Tips for Traveling to Sevilla, Spain for the First Time



Hello, friends! I hope your week is unfolding beautifully. As I wrap up my whirlwind travel series — from our Mediterranean cruise to unforgettable stops in Spain, Italy, and France — I’m finally sharing my favorite discoveries from spending four immersive weeks in Sevilla.




Whether you're popping in for a quick visit or staying for an extended stay, I’ve pulled together my top travel tips, local food spots, and insider advice — including a few things I definitely wish I had known ahead of time.


To keep things easy, I’ve broken it down into two sections:


✅ Short stays (around a week) – for travelers looking to make the most of limited time.
✅ Longer stays (3–4+ weeks) – perfect if you’re planning to settle in and explore Sevilla like a local.





Essential Tips for Visiting Sevilla, Spain — What to Know Before You Go

If you're dreaming of a trip to Sevilla, whether for a quick getaway or an extended stay, here’s everything I wish I had known before arriving. After spending four full weeks exploring the heart of Andalusia, I’ve gathered the most helpful travel tips, must-know cultural insights, favorite restaurants, and practical advice — broken down for both short and long visits.

✈️ Short Trip Tips: What to Know If You’re Staying a Week or Less

🗣 Language Basics

While many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas, Spanish is still essential — and in Sevilla, casual shortcuts and slang are part of the charm. It’s incredibly helpful to learn key Spanish phrases, especially for taxis, dining, and basic directions.

Here are a few everyday expressions you’ll hear:

  • “Por favor” (please) becomes “porfa”

  • “Hasta luego” (see you later) becomes “a luego”

  • “Buenos días” (good morning) shortens to “buenas” any time of day

  • “Gracias” (thank you) often sounds like “gracía”

  • You’ll also hear “vale” constantly — meaning OK, got it, ready?, or let’s go.

If you’re serious about language prep, grab a Spanish phrasebook or even work with an online tutor. (Josep has been a fantastic resource for me!)

👟 Footwear

Walking is inevitable — and wonderful. Sevilla is best explored on foot, but cobblestone streets and uneven paths mean heels are a no-go. Stick to sneakers or supportive sandals for daytime adventures, then switch to espadrilles or dressier flats for dinner. I live in Vejas while traveling Europe!

🌬️ Air Conditioning

Be prepared: AC is rare. Many restaurants, shops, and even Airbnbs won’t have it. Bring a folding fan, and don’t be shy about using it — locals do! We even grabbed a face mister and neck fan for our little one at Alehop.

📅 Reservations + Tickets

Make restaurant reservations and book attractions in advance, especially for popular spots like:

  • Royal Alcázar

  • Flamenco shows (Las Setas, La Caboneria, Casa de la Memoria)

  • Museo del Baile Flamenco

  • Plaza de España

  • Triana Market

  • Sevilla Cathedral

🍴 Dining in Sevilla: What to Expect

Restaurant Culture

  • Always specify: Agua con gas (sparkling) or agua natural (still).

  • Para llevar vs. para aquí: Know whether you’re eating in or taking it to go. Not all spots offer takeout, and some charge for containers.

  • Tipping isn’t expected, but a euro or two for excellent service is appreciated.

  • Order tinto de verano over sangria — it’s lighter and more refreshing.

  • Paella is typically a lunch dish, not dinner.

Recommended Restaurants

  • Mokambo – Brunch favorite

  • Alfalfa 8 – Great for drinks and dinner

  • Petra – Stylish cocktails and dinner

  • El Rinconcillo – Classic Andalusian dishes

  • Maria Trifulca – Romantic ambiance, riverside

  • Cañabota – Michelin-starred experience

  • Chök – Gluten-free bakery treats

  • Almazen – Cozy breakfast café

🏡 Long Stay in Sevilla (3–4+ Weeks)

Living in Sevilla for a month taught us a lot about settling in like a local — from grocery shopping daily to drying laundry on the rooftop.

🛒 Grocery Shopping

  • We shopped daily for fresh produce and snacks.

  • Restaurants don’t usually serve many veggies, so we made sure to stock up and prepare our own meals at the Airbnb.

🥦 Produce Shopping 101

  • Wear gloves to handle produce.

  • Use a digital scale to weigh, tag, and price your fruits/veggies.

  • Bring your own reusable bags — plastic ones cost extra.

  • Our staples: fresh fruit, yogurts, gluten-free picos with Nutella, Spanish tortilla, hummus, and toast with berries or peanut butter.

🧺 Laundry & Drying

  • Most Airbnbs have washing machines, but not dryers.

  • Clothes dry quickly outdoors — just beware of crunchy towels!

  • I packed our own detergent pods (Rosey from Thrive Market).

🛏️ Airbnb Advice

If you’re staying long-term, choose a place with AC and outdoor space. Ours was charming but compact, and I regretted not having a terrace or patio — especially during siesta hours.

♻️ Trash + Recycling

Sevilla has centralized drop-off zones for trash and a detailed recycling system:

  • Separate bins for glass, plastics, cardboard, food waste, and more.

🚻 Bathroom Tips

  • Most toilets can’t handle flushed paper — there’s a bin beside the toilet for used tissues.

  • Public restrooms may lack paper or soap, so carry travel tissues and hand sanitizer.

🌟 Random Gems + Local Tips

  • Eat the jamón — it’s everywhere and insanely good.

  • Visit Flabelus for beautiful Spanish flats (size up!).

  • Shop for affordable jewelry at Mira Mira.

  • Grab chocolate bonbons, turrón, and top-tier olive oil to bring home.

  • Don’t miss carrillada (slow-cooked pork cheek with red wine sauce) — absolutely heavenly.

  • Walk across to Triana for handmade ceramics and local crafts.


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