Is Seville Cathedral Worth Visiting? Complete Guide + Tips

I think Seville Cathedral is worth visiting mainly for the Giralda, which is the bell tower. The tower’s ramped climb is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and the views from the top make it worth the climb.

Inside the cathedral, the Christopher Columbus tomb is another highlight. It’s really interesting to see in person, especially knowing the history (and controversy) behind his remains.

Plus, it’s one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with lots of ornate altars, intricate side chapels, and religious relics to see inside.

That said, if you’re not especially religious or interested in church history, the interior can feel a bit repetitive.

But even if you just come for the Giralda and Columbus tomb, I think you’ll be glad you saw it for yourself. It’s hard not to be impressed once you’re standing inside.

Seville Cathedral (“Catedral de Sevilla” in Spanish) was built between 1401 and 1506 on the site of a former mosque, making it one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.

Its construction was meant to showcase the city’s wealth during the height of Spain’s power after the Reconquista. 

You’ll see a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with hints of its Moorish past still showing in the Giralda tower and the Patio de los Naranjos.

Seville Cathedral is located in the heart of the historic center at Av. de la Constitución, right next to the Royal Alcazar.

The main entrance is right outside the Giralda tower at Lagarto Gate, where you’ll likely see a line of horse-drawn carriages.

It’s an easy walk from most central hotels in Seville, and you can combine both attractions in the same day. If you’re staying farther away, taxis and public transportation can drop you off nearby.

This ticket includes entry to the cathedral, the Giralda tower, and a handheld audioguide device.

I personally bought this ticket and thought the audioguide was a nice addition to really understand the history and details of what you’re seeing.

This is the basic ticket without an audioguide.

You can also add on a mobile audioguide or handheld device for an extra charge when booking your tickets online.

If you want a more in-depth visit, book a guided tour, which are available in English or Spanish.

A guide can give you context for the cathedral’s architecture, art, and history that you might otherwise miss.

This special tour takes you up to the cathedral’s rooftops for views of the building’s architecture and Seville’s skyline.

It’s a more unique experience compared to just visiting the interior and Giralda, and you’ll get to walk through roofs, passageways, and stairs.

Tip: If you don’t buy tickets online in advance, you can also find last-minute tickets and tour options on Viator.

Originally built as the minaret for the mosque that once stood here, the Giralda is now the cathedral’s bell tower.

Instead of stairs, it has a series of 35 ramps designed so riders on horseback could ascend. It’s an easy but steady climb, and the panoramic views from the top make it worth it.

The only annoying thing is that there’s chicken wire on the windows, which makes it hard to get good photos from the top.

This elaborate monument is said to hold the remains of Christopher Columbus, though only part of his body is actually confirmed to be here. 

For years there’s been debate over whether his true remains are in Seville or in the Dominican Republic, which also claims to house them. 

DNA testing in the early 2000s supported Seville’s claim, but the controversy hasn’t completely gone away. 

The tomb itself is an impressive sight, carried by four statues representing the historic kingdoms of Spain, and it’s one of the cathedral’s most photographed spots.

The main altar is an intricate masterpiece covered in gold leaf, depicting various religious scenes.

It’s massive and best appreciated by standing back to take in the scale and detail.

The Chapter Hall is one of the most beautiful rooms in the cathedral, with a perfectly oval design and an intricate domed ceiling. 

It was designed to have excellent acoustics and this is where important meetings were once held to talk about how the cathedral was run.

This courtyard filled with orange trees is one of the last surviving parts of the original mosque.

It’s a peaceful place to pause before or after visiting the main cathedral.

Seville Cathedral does have a dress code, and it’s pretty strictly enforced. Both men and women need to have their shoulders and knees covered, and hats should be removed before entering. 

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, keep this in mind when planning your outfit because they won’t make exceptions just because it’s hot outside. 

They do sell cheap shawls at the entrance for around 3€, which is handy if you forget. 

When I visited in summer, I was wearing a sleeveless top and had to buy one of these before going inside.

Follow these tips to make the most of your visit:

• Book your tickets in advance: The cathedral is one of the top attractions in Seville, and tickets often sell out, especially in peak season. Make sure to book your tickets online ahead of time.

• Do a guided tour for an upgraded experience: If you want an upgraded experience, go with a guided tour, where they’ll point out details and history that you might otherwise overlook.

• Go early in the day: Try to plan your visit early in the day for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

• Dress appropriately: Shoulders and knees must be covered and this is strictly enforced. If needed, shawls are sold at the front entrance for 3€.

• Your ticket also includes El Salvador Church: Keep your ticket and visit this beautiful baroque church on the same or following day.

• Take advantage of free access on Sundays: The Seville Cathedral offers free access on Sundays from 4:30PM-6:00PM, but you must book your ticket online to secure your spot.

• Bring a hand fan: It can get really hot inside the cathedral, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.  Bring an electronic hand fan to stay cool.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Seville Cathedral:

I hope this guide to visiting Seville Cathedral has helped you decide if it’s worth adding to your trip!

I thought climbing the Giralda was so unique and that was definitely my favorite part of the visit. And getting to see the tomb of Christopher Columbus was also a highlight.

If you decide to go inside, just make sure to purchase your tickets online in advance on the official website.

And don’t forget to dress appropriately on the day of your visit as the dress code is strictly enforced. 

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