Architecture lovers will obsess over Sevilla (or Seville in English). Hands down my favorite thing is how the city developed around the Canal de Alfonso XIII, with six (!) different bridges spanning across and tons of restaurants and bars along the banks, presenting the perfect alfresco dining opportunity.

You could easily spend a whole day just sitting along the river at an outdoor café people-watching, but then you’d miss all the other amazing things to do in Seville, like cathedrals, palaces, and plazas the city has to offer.

Word of caution: Seville is HOT. I was there in August, and you can see there’s a haze on all of the photos (even with the older quality – thanks 2004!).

Seville Planning Guide

• Where to stay: Near Puente de Isabel II
• Flight details: Fly into Sevilla Airport (SVQ)
• Time of year visited: Summer
• Time in Seville: 3 days
• Spain itinerary: 8 weeks study abroad in Spain, including Cádiz, Granada, Madrid, and Seville

Save this map to use on your trip:

1. Click the star to the right of the map title
2. Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone
3. Click on the three lines in the upper left corner and select “Your Places”
4. Select “Maps” and the map will be saved there for you to use on your trip. Have fun!

Where to Stay in Seville

For a short trip focused on the main things to do in Seville, I like staying close to the river and the historic center so we’re never far from food, playgrounds, or siesta time.

• Near Puente de Isabel II / Triana side
  • Great river views
  • Easy walk to Calle Betis nightlife
  • Still close to the main monuments across the bridge
• Barrio Santa Cruz
  • Storybook narrow streets
  • Walking distance to Real Alcázar and Catedral de Seville
  • Perfect if you want to do most of your things to do in Seville on foot
• Around Plaza de España / Parque de María Luisa
  • Quieter at night
  • Easy access to park time with kids

Things to Do in Seville

The Architecture

Unique architectural styles abound in Seville telling the story of the city’s vibrancy, changing of rule, and overall expansion. A study in the contrast of the ancient and modern, you definitely won’t want for photo-worthy moments.

Catedral de Sevilla

Catedral de Sevilla is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and holds the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Inside, you can visit multiple chapels and then climb La Giralda by a series of ramps instead of stairs, which is easier with kids. It’s one of the core things to do in Seville, so book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.

Real Alcázar

Real Alcázar de Sevilla is a working royal palace and one of the best places to understand how different cultures shaped the city. Inside you’ll see Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and later additions layered together in one complex, with carved arches, intricate tile work, and quiet courtyards. Plan to walk through key areas like the Patio de las Doncellas and the Salón de los Embajadores, then leave extra time for the gardens, which are large and a good spot to slow down after the more crowded interior rooms.

For planning, it’s worth booking timed-entry tickets in advance and arriving as close to opening as possible, especially in warmer months. Expect security checks at the entrance and a set path that guides you through the main rooms.

Plaza de España

Plaza de España was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and curves around a central canal with bridges and tiled benches for each Spanish province. It’s an easy place to combine sightseeing with downtime, since kids can explore the tiles or open spaces while adults enjoy the views. Many visitors pair Plaza de España with a walk through Parque de María Luisa when planning their things to do in Seville.

Metropol Parasol

Metropol Parasol, also known as “Las Setas,” is a large wooden structure completed in 2011 (after I visited) with a raised walkway and viewing platforms. There’s a market and small archaeological area at ground level, and you can buy a ticket to take an elevator up to the top for a looped path with city views. It adds a modern stop to your list of things to do in Seville and works well at sunset or at the end of a busy sightseeing day.

Logistics

Seville is one of the few places where I recommend hopping on those big red double-decker City Sightseeing tour buses. The city is walkable, but it’s quite large, and most tourists only plan around three days total there. The bus tour will allow you to see some of those drive-by sites like Torre del Oro, while allowing you to get off at the old city fortress wall, while allowing you to get off and spend more time at the big ones listed above.

The Bridges

The six bridges of Seville were constructed for the 1992 World’s Fair, which was organized to celebrate the 500th anniversary Christoper Columbus discovering the Americas. While I don’t recommend visiting the Expo site (it hasn’t been kept up that well and it’s just a bunch of random ’90s-style buildings; you’ll drive past it and see what I mean on the City Sightseeing tour), I could sit along the Canal and stare at the bridges all day. Each offers a different architectural viewpoint from the ultra modern arch of Puente de la Barqueta to the playful orbs supporting Puente de Isabel II.

Don’t Miss: All of the bridges near the central historical district, such as including Puente de Isabel II, Puente del Cristo de la Expiración (also known as Puente del Cachorro), and Puente de San Telmo, have pedestrian walkways. Make sure to venture across them for a unique viewpoint of the city.

Logistics: There’s no need to walk to the far ends of the city if you want to hit up the more modern bridges. You’ll drive over or past Puente del Alamillo and Puente de la Barqueta on the City Sightseeing tour.

Triana: Across the River from the Historic Center

Triana sits across the Canal de Alfonso XIII from the main historic center and gives you a different side of the city. Traditionally known for ceramics, flamenco, and river life, it’s an easy neighborhood to add to your list of things to do in Seville. You can walk over from the center via Puente de Isabel II, explore a few streets, and still be back near the cathedral by the end of the evening. Triana works well as a low-key half day: a stroll, a meal by the water, and maybe a flamenco show if your schedule allows.

Calle Betis

Calle Betis runs along the river on the Triana side, directly across from the historic center, and is one of the most relaxed things to do in Seville, especially later in the day. The street is lined with bars and restaurants facing the water, so you can eat while looking back at the city skyline and bridges lit up at night.

You can turn Calle Betis into a simple tapas crawl, moving from one place to the next along the river. Walking over Puente de Isabel II, having a meal on Calle Betis, and then crossing back with the lights reflected in the water is an easy way to end a day of sightseeing. It’s also one of the best places to cool off, especially in summer months when the heat is sweltering, and round out your list of things to do in Seville.

Surviving the Seville Heat

Since Seville is famously hot, especially if you’re tackling all these things to do in Seville in summer, it’s worth building your days around the weather.

Heat-Smart Daily Rhythm

• Morning: Big-ticket sights like Real Alcázar, Catedral de Sevilla, Plaza de España
• Midday: Long lunch inside, siesta, hotel pool if you have one
• Late afternoon / evening: Riverfront walks, bridges, Calle Betis, park time

What to Pack for Seville

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Sun hats for everyone
• Refillable water bottles
• A small handheld fan or portable neck fan
• Comfy sandals or sneakers that can handle cobblestones

You don’t need a lot of gear to enjoy Seville, but being prepared for the heat makes a big difference in how much energy you have for exploring.

Final Thoughts

If you only have a few days in the city, you do not need to see everything to have a great trip. Pick a few favorite things to do in Seville that match your style, like a morning at the Real Alcázar, time inside the Catedral and La Giralda, an unhurried walk through Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa, and an evening crossing the bridge to Calle Betis to watch the lights along the river. You can always add a river cruise, a bike tour, or a flamenco show if you find yourself with extra energy.

Seville works well on its own or as part of a bigger itinerary. You might pair your favorite things to do in Seville with a few days in Granada using my “things to do in Granada” guide, or plan a future coastal trip using my guide “Positano” for inspiration. If you are still deciding what to include or how to fit everything into your schedule, you can always send me a message on Instagram and I am happy to help you think through your plans.

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  Best Moments | Europe | Family | Featured | Portugal

  Algarve, Portugal Itinerary With Kids: 4 Days of Beaches, Caves, and Family Friendly Stops

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  Lisbon is one of those cities that works beautifully for families when you pair it with a slower pace. It’s compact, colorful, full of viewpoints and snacks, and there’s always something new to look at. The key is building your days around neighborhoods, so you’re not zig-zagging over hills nonstop. If you’ve been searching what…

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  Things To Do In Belém: A Can’t-Miss Day Trip (Plus Pastéis De Belém)

  ByMari January 26, 2026January 28, 2026

  Belém is an easy day trip from Lisbon with Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, a scenic waterfront walk, and the original Pastéis de Belém. Use this guide to plan the best things to do in Belém in one simple route.

The post Things to Do in Seville, Spain for the Perfect Weekend appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Granada was the last city I visited in Spain at the end of my summer abroad trip, and it was the perfect end to my time in Spain. Granada embodies everything that travelers love about Spain all in one city: stunning vistas, intricately built architecture, great wine and tapas, plus although I was there in the middle of a sweltering August, there was always a cool breeze in Granada that evaded us in Sevilla and Córdoba.

If you are planning your own trip and looking for the best things to do in Granada, this guide will walk you through my favorite experiences plus a few more ideas I would add for a return visit.

Quick Planning Guide for Granada, Spain

Planning Guide

• Where to stay: Hotel Carmen
• Flight details: Fly into Málaga Airport (AGP), then take the bus to Granada (2 hours). Granada also has its own airport, so arriving directly is a valid option.
• Time of year visited: Summer
• Time in Granada: 3 days
• Spain itinerary: 8 weeks study abroad in Spain, including Cádiz, Granada, Madrid, and Sevilla

To help you organize your things to do in Granada, here are a few extra planning notes:

• How long to stay:
  • 2 days: Enough for The Alhambra, a tapas night, and a quick walk around the Albaicín.
  • 3 days: Ideal, gives you time for The Alhambra, viewpoints, a cathedral visit, and a slow evening at the Arab baths.
  • 4+ days: Add day trips to the Sierra Nevada or nearby villages.
• Best time of year:
  • Spring and fall usually offer the most comfortable temperatures.
  • Summer is hot, but that famous Granada breeze helps. Plan your big hill walks and outdoor things to do in Granada early in the morning or at sunset.
• Getting around:
  • The historic center is very walkable, but expect hills.
  • Local buses and taxis are helpful when you are tired from exploring all your Granada activities.

Save This Granada Map for Your Trip

How to save this map to use on your trip:

1. Click the star to the right of the map title
2. Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone
3. Click on the three lines in the upper left corner and select “Your Places”
4. Select “Maps” and the map will be saved there for you to use on your trip. Have fun!

Having your favorite things to do in Granada pinned on one map makes it much easier to connect neighborhoods and group activities by area.

Things to Do in Granada

The Alhambra

Dating back to 889 AD, The Alhambra is a fortress, palace, and city all in one, and it’s served as each of those throughout its history. Like so many other historic sites in Spain, both Islam and Christianity influenced the design based on which was in power. Before you even enter the site, its easy to see that The Alhambra is special. Its crimson walls are nestled within lush green surrounding gardens, with the often white-capped mountain peaks as a backdrop. The building itself is washed in light after dark, reflecting a golden beacon in the night that can be seen anywhere in the city.

Don’t miss: Nasrid Palaces, especially the Court of the Myrtles and Generalife, especially Patio of the Irrigation Ditch

Pro Tip: Buy your tickets in advance as soon as you know you are visiting The Alhambra. They actually do sell out during really popular times like summer weekends.

When you are planning things to do in Granada, The Alhambra should be the anchor of your itinerary. A few extra tips:

• Time your visit:
  • Mornings are cooler and a bit calmer.
  • Late afternoon visits can be beautiful as the light gets softer.
• How long to spend:
  • Plan for at least half a day if you want time to walk through the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife gardens, and stop for views over the city.
• With kids or in a group:
  • Bring snacks and water.
  • Break up your visit between the formal palace interiors and open garden spaces so everyone gets a chance to move around.

The Alhambra alone could fill a full day, but it is just the beginning when it comes to essential things to do in Granada.

Mirador de San Nicolás

Part of the charm of Granada is that it’s a hilly city not dissimilar to San Francisco; in certain parts of the city, the only way to get where you’re going is up. But the uphill walks (or drives if you’re so inclined) are absolutely worth it for the spectacular views. Mirador de San Nicolás (Saint Nicholas Lookout) offers amazing views of The Alhambra at night, but what you’ll miss if you take most hotel’s recommendation to go up via cab or the public bus is the glimpse into local life hiding within all of the tiny, winding streets, and the increasingly spectacular views you’ll get on the way up.

Don’t miss: The walk up is as much a part of the experience as being at the top. You’ll be rewarded with a sun-kissed view of the city and a unique view of the glowing Alhambra when you get there.

Logistics: Make sure to walk up about 1.5-2 hours before sunset to avoid the heat and catch the dipping sun while you walk. There are a lot of great restaurants and bars in the immediate area, so plan to stay after dark for food and drinks. Plan your walk to hit Mirador de Santa Isabel la Real on the way up for a break and glimpse of the great view you’ll get at the top.

 This lookout quickly becomes one of the most memorable things to do in Granada because you get:

• A full, postcard-perfect view of The Alhambra and the mountains
• Musicians, street life, and that relaxed evening energy
• A natural way to explore the Albaicín’s narrow, whitewashed streets

Strolling the Albaicín: Whitewashed Streets and Hidden Views

After or before Mirador de San Nicolás, give yourself time to wander the Albaicín, Granada’s old Moorish quarter. Even if it was not in your original list of things to do in Granada, it will probably end up being a trip highlight.

Ideas for exploring:

• Start near Plaza Nueva and walk uphill into the neighborhood.
• Follow small side streets and peek into courtyards and tiny plazas.
• Stop for a drink or snack at a terrace with a view back toward The Alhambra.

This is a great area to slow down, especially in the evening when the heat eases and the city feels more local.

Hotel Carmen

Book your stay at Hotel Carmen. The view from the rooftop pool (image above) is to die for!

Hotel Carmen puts you in a central spot, close to shops and restaurants, while giving you that rooftop pool to cool off after long days of walking. A few reasons it worked well for my stay:

• Easy to get back for a mid-day break when the sun was strongest.
• Walkable to many of the main things to do in Granada.
• Rooftop views give you a chance to enjoy the city even when you are tired.

If you prefer a different style, you can also look for small guesthouses in the Albaicín or modern hotels closer to the river and cathedral area. No matter where you stay, keep your planned things to do in Granada in mind so you are not crossing the city back and forth all day.

More Amazing Things to Do in Granada

Beyond The Alhambra and the viewpoints, here are a few more ideas to round out your Granada itinerary:

Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel

• Visit the cathedral interior for its high ceilings, artwork, and calm atmosphere.
• Step into the Royal Chapel to see the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella.
• Combine this visit with a walk through the nearby shopping streets and plazas.

Tapas Hopping Around Town

One of the most delicious things to do in Granada is simple: follow the tapas.

• In many places, you receive a free tapa with your drink.
• Try a few different bars to taste how each spot does it.
• Look for lively places filled with locals, especially on weeknights.

Must-Visit Tapas Bars in Granada

La Riviera

La Riviera is a great place to start your night. Order a drink, and let the free tapas set the tone for the evening. It has that lively, classic Granada atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve landed in exactly the right place. If you’re building your own list of things to do in Granada, a stop here early in the evening is a perfect warm-up before you keep exploring nearby streets and bars.

La Telefonica

La Telefonica is another fun stop to mix into your tapas route. It has a more casual, neighborhood feel, so it’s an easy place to drop in for a drink and tapa before moving on. If you’re planning out your evening things to do in Granada, think of La Telefonica as a flexible stop you can add at the beginning, middle, or end of your crawl depending on where you are in the city.

See a Flamenco Show in Sacromonte

If you love live music and want to add something special to your list of things to do in Granada, spend an evening watching flamenco in the Sacromonte caves. Sacromonte sits on the hillside opposite the Alhambra, and its whitewashed cave homes are one of the most atmospheric places in the city after dark.

Inside the caves, the flamenco shows feel intimate and intense. You sit close to the dancers and musicians, so you hear every stomp, clap, and guitar note. It is very different from a big, staged performance and feels more like being invited into someone’s living room. Adding a Sacromonte show to your things to do in Granada is a great way to experience the city’s Romani and flamenco heritage, not just read about it.

Day Trip Ideas

If you are staying longer or want to add variety to your list of things to do in Granada:

Nearby villages: smaller towns can give you a different pace and feel.

Sierra Nevada: mountain views, hikes, and in winter, skiing.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Granada

Granada was the perfect closing chapter to my summer in Spain, and it is still a place I would love to return to, this time with kids in tow. Whether you are here for a few days or a longer stay, focusing on the key things to do in Granada will help you make the most of your time:

• Set The Alhambra as your anchor.
• Add a sunset at Mirador de San Nicolás.
• Wander the Albaicín without a strict plan.
• Mix in tapas, cathedral time, and maybe an evening at the Sacromonte enjoying a live music show.

With a little planning and a short list of must-see things to do in Granada, you can enjoy the same breezy, memorable experience that made this city such a special part of my own Spain story. Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram, I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

• 

  Best Moments | Europe | Family | Featured | Portugal

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  Things To Do In Belém: A Can’t-Miss Day Trip (Plus Pastéis De Belém)

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The post Unforgettable Things to Do in Granada, Spain appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Being an animal lover (I have three rescue cats at home and would have way more if it wasn’t completely insane), I take every chance I get to interact with the local wildlife on my travels around the world. These are the best moments I experienced with our furry (and scaly!) friends across the globe.

If you’re a wildlife lover yourself or just care about our planet, please consider making a donation to the World Wildlife Fund. Your donation goes directly to restoring habitats and ensuring the success of all species around the world.

Favorite Moments

Whale Sharks & Manta Rays in Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Swimming with whale sharks had been at the top of my bucket list for a while. I’ve always been interested in sharks (I’m obsessed with Shark Week), but I was hesitant to get in the water with something that could eat me, so I started looking into whale sharks. I discovered that they’re in the ocean right off the coast of Cancun for two full months in July and August on their migration route. I set out on a tour with Casa del Buceo hoping to just see one whale shark, and I saw over 300 sharks literally the size of a school bus. The manta rays gliding through the water alongside them were an added bonus.

Coati in Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Coati are relatives of the raccoons we have here in the U.S., only they’re a million times cuter. I didn’t set out to the Falls expecting to see them, but I was so delighted when I did. They are adorable with a funny little way about them in how they move. It was such a treat to share the walkways with them.

Dogsledding in Montreal, Canada

This was another bucket list moment for me. I told my boyfriend that I would be happy with our recent trip to Montreal if only we got to go dogsledding. The dogs at Kinadapt are so lively and well cared for—they literally jump for joy when they realize they’ve been chosen to go out on a run. Once you’re finished on the sled, you have the chance to help take care of the dogs, which is a great way to show your gratitude for their work.

During my visit to Thailand, I was so excited to have the opportunity to learn about the elephants that are so culturally important to the Thai people, which you can easily see in the use of elephant images in all the wats (translation: temples) throughout the country. Eddy’s Elephant Care was a perfect introduction to the care and respect for these amazing animals. You start your day getting to know them slowly by learning how to speak to them, how to feed them, and how to care for them. Once you’ve bonded and earned their trust, you can ride your new elephant buddy through the jungle to the river pictured above, where you play in the water and help them get a well-deserved bath.

Wild Horse in San José de Maipo, Chile

When I set out on a hike and hot springs tour in San José de Maipo, Chile, I never expected to see any animals along the way, but out of the valley walked three wild horses. They seemed used to the people on the trail and had no qualms about getting up close and personal with us. It was a fleeting moment, as they were gone nearly as quickly as they appeared, but I’m so thrilled to have been in the right place at the right time to catch these beauties.

Whale Watching in Juneau, Alaska

As a celebration for my dad’s 60th birthday, my family headed out on an Alaskan cruise, which is an experience I recommend again and again when asked about my favorite locations. The beauty of Alaska is unparalleled. It was unseasonably warm the week we were there (in the 80s some days, which is unheard of in Alaska, even in the height of summer). Because of the heat wave, the wildlife was out to play. We went on a whale watching tour in Juneau, where the guide told us we’d see one or two animals on a good day. We saw 16 whales, including a pod of orcas working together to hunt a group of seals (poor seals! but the circle of life, I guess).

Monkeys in Gibraltar

Gibraltar is such a funny little territory. It’s not really British, and it’s definitely not Spanish. The monkeys that live on the Rock don’t seem to mind the cultural confusion. A mischievous band of brothers and sisters, they love to play games with the tourists, which usually revolve around stealing your snacks, camera, or even your wallet. Keep your goods close around this crazy bunch!

The post Best Moments: Animals appeared first on Mari on the Map.