Think of Seville and thoughts of bullfighting are not too far behind. Although witnessing this tradition is a popular way to spend time in the city, it is by no means the only experience to have.
If you don’t want to visit a bullfighting ring during your port stop to Seville, here are 6 alternative things to do in the city:
1) Take a Flamenco Class
The 18th-century building that houses the Flamenco Dance Museum is thick with atmosphere and history. This traditional form of Andalucian music, dance and hand clapping is preserved at its finest in the museum, which is a showcase of flamenco sounds, images and exhibitions.
However, to truly understand this historic art you must try it, and the museum is on hand to help with private or group classes. Although one session is unlikely to get you to competition level, you’ll be left with a touch more Spanish spirit coursing through your veins.
Learn the art of flamenco. Photo by Firesmile.
2) Rent a Boat at Plaza de España
Picturesquely placed in Maria Luisa Park, the Plaza is expansive and readily identifiable for its landmark towers at the north and south that can be seen across the city.
The Plaza, which was built in 1929, has recently undergone a significant refurbishment that included refilling the moat around it. Rent a rowing boat and take to the canal to see a side of Seville that has been described as the Venice of Spain.
Take a boat on the moat. Photo by Turismo de Sevilla.
3) Shop Like a Local at Triana Market
Fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, cheeses and olives are in abundance at Triana market as well as a good helping of local culture.
There are over 100 stalls to explore, but don’t let the bright and fresh produce steal all of your attention—look out for the typically Spanish tiled signs and don’t miss a stop to one of the many tapas stalls that will gladly satisfy the hunger that a trip to Triana is bound to rouse.
Mingle with the locals at Triana market. Photo by blackcealt.
4) Get Your Feet Wet at Plaza de la Alameda de Hércules
Sightseeing can be hot and sweaty business. When you’re ready to cool off, head to Plaza de la Alameda de Hércules and let your inner child dance around in the spray of the fountains.
The jets built into the floor can offer anything from a refreshing mist to an all-out drenching, meaning you can choose according to your heat level. After enjoying the fountains, find the columns hoisting statues of Hércules and Julius Cesar far up into the sky.
Cool off in the fountains. Photo by Francisco M.
5) Buy Sweets from the Nuns at San Leandro Convent
There is a sweeter side to this convent than staring at yet another biblical fresco. The nuns at San Leandro run a side business in delicious dulces (sweets) and the trade of cash for confectionery is unique and fun.
The confectionery is handmade by the nuns with recipes reputed to date back to ancient Roman and Moorish times, making this a sweet shop worth the stop. Try the yemas, sweets made from egg yolks and sugar.
Buy dulces from the nuns. Photo by chelmsfordblue.
6) Watch a Soccer Match
There is nothing quite like soccer to get the Spanish excited, and Seville is no exception. Whether you’re an ardent fan of the sport or barely pay attention to the fixtures, see a local team play and you’ll find yourself cheering along with the rest of the crowd.
The excitement is contagious and the passion is impressive. The teams to watch out for are local competitors Sevilla F.C. and Real Betis.
Cheer along with the locals. Photo by Cedric_Ramirez.
Look beyond the bullfighting and you will see a whole world of sights in this southern Spanish city.
Have you visited Seville? What would you add to the list of alternative things to do? Let me know in the comments below.
If you liked this article, you might also like: 24 Hours in Barcelona: 5 Things NOT to Do.
Main photo: Clap clap clap clap by soylentgreen23.