Local Customs & Etiquette in Sevilla, Spain

1. Tapas Culture

Enjoying a variety of small dishes while socializing in bars is a popular tradition.

Free Tapas: Some bars offer free tapas with each drink order.
Different Styles: Tapas can be cold, hot, or dessert-like and may include seafood, meat, or vegetable dishes.
Time of Day: Tapa-hopping is common during late afternoon and early evening hours.

Locals often greet each other with two kisses on the cheek.

Direction of Kisses: The kisses are exchanged starting from the right cheek.
Formality: Friends and acquaintances use this greeting, while strangers usually shake hands.
Multiple Greetings: Even if you've just met someone, they might greet you multiple times throughout the conversation.

Many businesses close in the afternoon for a siesta.

Time of Day: The siesta usually takes place between 2 PM and 5 PM.
Shopping Hours: Shops often reopen later in the evening for more shopping hours.
Adapting to Siesta: Tourists should plan their day accordingly to avoid inconvenience.

A morning gathering of friends at a bar to enjoy coffee and conversation.

Socializing: It's an opportunity for locals to catch up with friends over coffee.
Time of Day: Typically happens between 10 AM and noon.
Participation: Tourists are usually welcome to join in.

Respecting the performers and preserving the tradition is essential during a flamenco show.

Silence and Attention: Audience members should remain quiet and focused during the performance.
Dress Code: Formal attire is not required, but dressing smartly shows respect for the performers.
Photography: Flash photography and video recording are generally prohibited during performances.

An iconic monument that showcases Sevillian regionalism.

Architecture: The building is a combination of Mudejar, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.
Tiles: Each region in Spain is represented by tiles within the monument.
Boat Ride: A scenic boat ride offers a panoramic view of the plaza.

An impressive cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage site housing the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Size: It's one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Giralda Tower: The tower can be climbed for stunning views of the city.
Tomb of Columbus: Visitors can see the tomb, although the actual remains are not present.

A beautiful palace complex featuring Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Islamic architectural styles.

Gardens: The gardens showcase various fountains, pavilions, and orange trees.
Palace Rooms: Visitors can explore several rooms, including the Hall of Kings and Hall of Ambassadors.
Filming Location: The Real Alcázar has been used as a filming location for popular series like Game of Thrones.

A vibrant neighborhood known for its gypsy culture, pottery, and tapas bars.

Gypsy Culture: The district is home to a large number of Sevillian gypsies.
Pottery Workshops: Visitors can attend workshops to learn about traditional pottery techniques.
Tapas Bars: The bars offer a unique tapas experience, often with Triana-specific dishes.

A modernist complex of wooden structures that offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture: The structure is designed by Jürgen Mayer H.
Roof Level Access: Visitors can access the rooftop for stunning views of the city.
Anthropology Museum: The complex houses an anthropology museum dedicated to Seville's history.

A collection of Spanish and European art from the 14th century to the present day.

Masterpieces: The museum houses works by artists like Goya, Murillo, and Velázquez.
Building History: The museum is housed in a former convent of the Dominican order.
Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.

A traditional Sevillian bar famous for its seafood and flamenco nights.

Flamenco Nights: The bar hosts live flamenco performances on certain nights.
Seafood Specialties: Try the seafood rice or fried fish for a genuine experience.
Lively Atmosphere: The bar has a lively, authentic atmosphere perfect for enjoying tapas and drinks.

A famous bullfighting ring that offers tours and bullfighting events.

History: The Maestranza is one of the oldest bullfighting rings in Spain.
Tours: Visitors can take tours to learn about the history and tradition of bullfighting.
Bullfights: Bullfights are held during the spring, with ticket sales starting months in advance.

A bustling street lined with shops, bars, and restaurants.

Shopping: Calle Betis offers a variety of local shops selling everything from clothing to souvenirs.
Dining: The street is home to many traditional tapas bars and restaurants.
Local Life: Calle Betis offers a glimpse into the daily life of Sevillians.

A week-long festival celebrating Sevillian culture with flamenco music, food, and dance.

Dates: The festival usually takes place in April.
Traditional Costumes: Locals wear traditional flamenco dresses and suits during the festival.
Parties and Processions: The festival is famous for its lively parties, horse-drawn carriage processions, and street food stalls.