Guide to visiting the Real Alcázar of Seville

This time, we’re here to talk about a place that seems straight out of a fairy tale, or rather, a movie or TV series. And it’s not far from the truth, because the Real Alcázar of Seville has been the setting for none other than… Game of Thrones!

Does it sound familiar but you don’t know what you’ll find there, or do you already know it and want to organize a visit? Either way, keep scrolling, because we’ll tell you all its secrets, how to make the most of your ticket, and a few tricks to get to know it thoroughly.

What and Where is the Real Alcázar of Seville

The Real Alcázar of Seville is the oldest royal palace in use in Europe. Well, in truth, it’s a complex of walled constructions that have seen several civilizations pass through its rooms. Yes! We’re talking about caliphs, Christian kings, and the current monarchs, who still use it when they visit the city.

It’s in the city center, so you’ll have no excuse not to visit. You’ll find it in Plaza del Triunfo, right next to the Cathedral and the Giralda. In fact, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 along with the Basilica and the Archivo de Indias, so it’s a must-see on your list of things to do in Seville.

The main entrance is unmistakable, as it’s through the famous Puerta del León (Lion Gate) of the Real Alcázar of Seville, named for the tile mural that crowns the arch.

It was formerly known as Puerta de la Montería, as kings would depart from here for hunting expeditions. And although there are other gates—such as the Puerta de la Alcoba or the Puerta de Antonio el Bailarín—you can’t miss it: just look for the lion and you’ll be in the right place!

A Bit of Its History

The history of the Alcázar began back in the year 913. Initially, it was a fortress for Muslim rulers, but over the centuries and with the Christian reconquest, each king wanted to leave their mark. Thus, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and, above all, the spectacular Mudejar styles were added.

And the best part is that it’s still alive today, serving as the seat of the Crown and the municipal power of the city. It is precisely this mix of cultures that makes its temples, gardens, and rooms so special. Take a look!

Mudejar Palace

The Mudejar Palace—or Pedro I Palace—was built between 1356 and 1366 and is one of the best examples of Mudejar architecture in Spain. It was conceived as the monarch’s private residence and combines Christian and Islamic elements. Among its most famous rooms are the Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens), the Patio de las Muñecas (Courtyard of the Dolls)—which we just mentioned—and stately halls like the Salón de Embajadores (Hall of Ambassadors), where you’ll want to indulge in some “tourist neck strain” and look up for a long time, because its golden dome is the most amazing feature.

Gothic Palace

The Gothic Palace was commissioned by Alfonso X the Wise in the 13th century and represents a later phase of the Alcázar, already under Christian rule. And although it has undergone several renovations, it still maintains its original structure.

Here you’ll be able to see the Chapel, the Great Hall, and the Hall of Tapestries.

Courtyards

One of the features that will leave you speechless at the Real Alcázar of Seville are the courtyards, especially the Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens), with its long pond and filigree arches that are the true jewel in the crown—no pun intended.

And let’s not forget the Patio de Banderas (Courtyard of Flags), a large square with the best views of the city’s Giralda, and the Patio de la Montería (Hunting Courtyard), a highly decorated area—with plasterwork and tiles—located in the central part of the Alcázar of Seville. Or the Patio de las Muñecas (Courtyard of the Dolls), which features many colorful marble columns and a large collection of capitals.

Mercury Pond

The Mercury Pond is one of the most emblematic spaces in the Alcázar Gardens. In its center stands a Renaissance bronze statue of the god Mercury, created in 1576. Originally, this pond served functions related to the palace’s water supply, but over time it became a decorative element.

Gardens

To conclude the tour, there’s nothing like exploring its gardens. They are immense—and we’re not exaggerating, as they cover 70,000 m²—filled with palm trees, fountains, orange trees, labyrinths, and peacocks roaming freely.

And if you want to add something else to your list, look for the water organ in the Fountain of Fame; it’s a sound spectacle you won’t see anywhere else.

They contain well-known places such as the Jardín de las Damas (Ladies’ Garden), the Jardín de Troya (Troy Garden), the Pabellón de Carlos V (Charles V Pavilion), or the Galería del Grutesco (Grotto Gallery).

Prepare Your Visit to the Real Alcázar of Seville

It’s essential to buy your tickets in advance on their official website because they sell out quickly. The general pass with an audio guide costs around €16, although there are reduced rates for students, people with disabilities, and retirees. Even better, on Mondays you can explore it completely free if you book in advance; it’s the open day.

And if you want to go a step further and have an in-depth tour, there are tours that cost between €20 and €50 and include access to other areas of the Real Alcázar of Seville, such as the Cuarto Real Alto.

Oh! And we haven’t told you yet, but it’s ideal to set aside at least two or three hours to see everything at the leisurely pace it deserves.

Are you coming to see the Real Alcázar of Seville?

Seville has a special charm, and as you can see, also a palace complex that deserves a day of your vacation to visit.

If you want to discover other attractions of the city like this one, a fantastic idea upon your arrival is to book a free tour of Seville. It will help you get your bearings and make a list of must-sees such as crossing to Triana, climbing the Giralda, or watching the sunset from Las Setas.

However, don’t worry if you don’t have a finalized to-do list; by staying right in the center of Seville, you’ll be a stone’s throw from everything. Don’t have a place to stay yet? Then go ahead and book your accommodation with WAOU Rentals.

Our apartments are the perfect option to enjoy the city with comfort and every luxury detail, ensuring your only concern is deciding which corner of Seville you’ll photograph today.