Family-Friendly Adventures in Seville!

Royal Alcázar of Seville (Real Alcázar de Sevilla)

Why Visit?

Family Day at the Royal Alcázar of Seville

Morning Arrival

Kick off your magical day at the Royal Alcázar around 9:00 AM to avoid the crowds. Situated in the heart of Seville, the Alcázar is easily accessible by public transport (tram stop: Archivo de Indias) or a short walk from most central hotels. Upon entering, rent an audio guide for a more insightful experience tailored to your family’s pace.

Explore the Palaces

Start your tour with the stunning Mudéjar Palace commissioned by King Pedro I in the 14th century. Admire the intricate ceramic tiles and the golden wooden carvings that tell tales of Seville’s multifaceted history. Share with the kids how this architectural style is a unique blend of Muslim and Christian design, making it a masterpiece of cultural harmony.

Gardens Exploration

Next, wander through the vast and vibrant gardens, a refreshing escape adorned with fountains, flowers, and peacocks that might just join you as you explore! These gardens have served many kings as private sanctuaries and were filming locations for the famous series Game of Thrones.

Lunch Break

Around noon, enjoy a picnic at the gardens. Pack a lunch or grab some local treats like jamón ibérico and tortilla española from a nearby shop. Relax under the shade of ancient trees or by the Pavilion of Charles V, a perfect spot for family photos!

Afternoon Activities

Post lunch, delve into the Gothic Palace, where the historical blend continues with breathtaking tapestries and regal artifacts. For a fun family challenge, find the Mercury Pond and see who can spot the most hidden symbols in the intricate Mercury"s Fountain.

Departure

Conclude your visit by 3:00 PM, leaving the afternoon to explore nearby Seville attractions like the Seville Cathedral or simply meander through the charming streets of Barrio Santa Cruz.

Remember, buying tickets online in advance is advised to skip long lines. Enjoy your journey through time at the enchanting Royal Alcázar of Seville!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de la Sede)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Seville Cathedral

Welcome to a magical day at Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most magnificent Christian monuments in the world.

Morning

- Start at the Puerta del Perdón: Enter through this beautiful gate located near the Archive of the Indies. The gate is a marvel, featuring intricate Moorish designs that tell stories from centuries past. Arrive early to avoid the crowds (around 9 AM is ideal).

- Explore the Main Altar and the Choir: Once inside, be awed by the grandeur of the cathedral"s interior. The main altar, with its breathtaking gold leaf work, is a sight to behold. Engage the kids by playing a "spot the saint" game with the statues.

Mid-Morning

- Climb La Giralda: Next, head to the iconic bell tower, originally a minaret when the site was a mosque. The climb is gentle (there are ramps instead of stairs), making it manageable for kids. At the top, you"ll be rewarded with stunning views of Seville.

Break for Lunch

- Take a quick walk to Barrio Santa Cruz, just a few minutes away. Enjoy some local tapas at one of the family-friendly restaurants — kids will love trying out different small dishes!

Afternoon

- Christopher Columbus’s Tomb: Head back to the cathedral to visit this intriguing site. Tell the kids about Columbus"s voyages and how this tomb, though controversial, became his final resting place.

- The Treasure Room and Chapter House: Finish your tour by exploring these areas. The Treasure Room is like a mini-museum filled with relics and art pieces, while the Chapter House features stunning stained glass windows and detailed carvings that will capture the imagination of the whole family.

Getting Around

- Seville is walkable and best explored on foot. For longer distances, use the tram or taxi. All sites mentioned are within walking distance of each other.

Enjoy your family day at Seville Cathedral, immersed in history, art, and culture!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Plaza de España

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Visiting Plaza de España, Seville

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at Plaza de España in the morning to avoid the crowds. Easily accessible by bus (lines C1 and C2 are very convenient), or if you"re up for a bit of exercise, a scenic walk from the city center through Maria Luisa Park is perfect. Remember, the plaza is more than just a landmark; it"s a masterpiece of architectural beauty designed by Aníbal González for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.

Exploring Plaza de España

Constructed as a symbol of Spain"s embrace of its regional identities, the Plaza is famous for its semi-circular brick building, a majestic example of Renaissance Revival architecture in Spain. Intricate ceramic tiles (azulejos) represent different Spanish provinces, so challenge the kids to find the tile that represents each part of Spain — it"s a fun and educational treasure hunt!

Boat Riding and Feeding the Birds

Rent one of the small boats to row along the canal — a 515-meter “Venice-like” moat that curves along the edge of the plaza. It"s a fantastic way to see the sights from a different perspective and a big hit with the kids. After boating, relax by feeding the ducks and pigeons or enjoy a family picnic on the beautiful grounds.

Visit the Museums

Located within the Plaza is the Military Museum, which is free to enter and offers a fascinating glimpse into Spain"s historical military endeavors. It"s compact enough not to overwhelm young children and engaging enough to fascinate adults.

Late Lunch

Conclude your visit with a meal at one of the nearby cafés, sampling local tapas while soaking in the views of the beautiful plaza — a perfect ending to your family day out.

Enjoy your visit to one of Seville"s most enchanting and photogenic locations, where every corner promises a new delight!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

The Giralda (El Giraldillo)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Tour of The Giralda (El Giraldillo), Seville

Morning: Visit to The Giralda

Start your adventure in Seville at the stunning Giralda, a former minaret turned bell tower, part of Seville Cathedral, and one of the city"s most iconic symbols. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. You can easily walk from nearby accommodations or take the tram to Archivo de Indias, just a short walk from The Giralda.

Fascinating Fact: The Giralda was originally built as a minaret during the Moorish period, around 1198, and later converted into a bell tower by the Christians. Its design inspired other famous structures, including the Ferry Building in San Francisco.

Touring Tips

Purchase tickets online to save waiting time. As you climb the 35 gently sloping ramps, originally designed to accommodate the riding of horses to the top, share with your kids how these ramps were once used by guards to go up and down the tower. Reach the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Seville, perfect for memorable family photos.

Lunch: Enjoy Tapas

After descending The Giralda, head to one of Seville’s charming nearby cafés or tapas bars. Casa Morales, a historic and family-friendly spot, is perfect for a relaxed lunch. Let the kids try some mild Spanish tortillas while you indulge in a local favorite, jamón ibérico.

Afternoon: Explore Seville Cathedral

Post lunch, step into the majestic Seville Cathedral, just next to The Giralda. As the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, it offers awe-inspiring architecture and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Engage the kids with a scavenger hunt to spot the various chapels and artistic treasures.

Wrap-Up Your Day

End your day with a stroll around the adjacent beautiful Patio de los Naranjos, a tranquil spot perfect for winding down and discussing the day’s discoveries.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical insights, architectural wonders, and delightful local cuisine, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family in the heart of Seville!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Seville Bullring (Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza de Cabellería de Sevilla)

Why Visit?

Morning: Exploring Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

Start your day visiting the iconic Seville Bullring, one of the oldest and most famous bullrings in the world. To reach there, simply take the bus or tram to the "Plaza de Cuba" or "Puerta de Jerez" stops, both are a short walk to the bullring.

Once at the bullring, join a guided tour available from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM, which includes access to the arena, the stands, and the Bullfighting Museum. Families will learn fascinating facts about the history of bullfighting, the architecture of the bullring, and its role in Spanish culture. Tours are family-friendly and provide insight without focusing on the violent aspects of bullfighting.

Lunch: Enjoy Local Cuisine

After exploring the bullring, head to one of the nearby restaurants like "Taberna Coloniales" for some traditional Sevillian dishes such as "espinacas con garbanzos" (spinach with chickpeas) or a variety of tapas that are great for sharing and kid-friendly.

Afternoon: Relax at Maria Luisa Park

A 15-minute walk from the bullring, Maria Luisa Park is the perfect spot for families to unwind. Kids can enjoy the playgrounds while adults might appreciate a stroll or a peaceful moment near the fountains and ponds.

Interesting Facts

- The bullring"s construction began in 1761 and it can hold up to 12,000 spectators.

- The Maestranza also played a key role in the opera "Carmen" where a dramatic bullfight scene takes place.

- The Bullfighting Museum within the bullring showcases costumes, posters, and works of art related to the tradition of bullfighting.

This itinerary combines cultural immersion with relaxation, making for an enjoyable family day out in Seville.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.