Castles · Tour

Alcázar, Cathedral and Giralda in Three and a Half Hours

Three and a half hours is longer than most Seville combined tours run, and the extra time goes on the buildings rather than on walking between them. The Cathedral is the largest Gothic church in the world, begun in the 15th century on the ground of the city's main mosque, and on the UNESCO list since 1987. The Giralda beside it was that mosque's minaret before it became a bell tower, and the Patio de los Naranjos was its ablutions courtyard. At 104 metres the tower gives one of the best views in Seville. The Alcázar is one of the most important royal palaces still in use anywhere in Europe, and the Spanish royal family stays here when they are in the city. It was built and rebuilt across centuries, so Islamic, Renaissance and Baroque work sit in the same complex, and its origins go back to the Middle Ages. It went on the UNESCO list in 1987 as well. Both monuments are entered on priority tickets. Two practical rules, both enforced. The cathedral's access policy bars tank tops, shorts and flip-flops indoors, and a passport or ID card must be shown at the entrance. Guiding is by accredited local guides.