Once you’ve visited the Giralda, Plaza de España and the Royal Alcázars, you’ll realise Seville still has much more to offer. Beyond its most iconic monuments, the city hides small treasures that escape the typical tourist routes. This spring, we invite you to explore five hidden gems brimming with history, beauty and tranquillity – perfect for strolling at your own pace and connecting with the most authentic side of Seville.
And the best part? If you stay at Apartamentos Puerta del Sur, you can plan your visit on your own terms. With excellent connections to the city centre, comfortable facilities and personalised service, the team at the apartments will be happy to suggest special spots like the ones below:
1. Callejón del Agua: a hidden gem in Santa Cruz
In the heart of the Santa Cruz district, next to the walls of the Royal Alcázar, lies a narrow, quiet street that seems straight out of a fairy tale: Callejón del Agua. This 140-metre alley follows the path of Seville’s old city wall, inside which pipes once carried water from the Caños de Carmona to the Alcázar gardens.
Walking here at sunset, with the Murillo Gardens in the background and the faint whisper of water still present, is an experience that truly connects you with the historical soul of Seville. The perfect place to escape the crowds without leaving the city centre.
2. Monastery of Santa Paula: art, spirituality and handmade sweets
Nestled in the historic centre, the Monastery of Santa Paula, founded in the 15th century and still inhabited by Hieronymite nuns, is one of the city’s most special and least visited places. In addition to its spiritual heritage, the monastery houses a permanent art collection, featuring works by Mateo Cerezo, Ribera and Eugenio Cajés.
But perhaps the most beloved corner comes at the end of the visit: the sweet shop, where the nuns craft jams and traditional pastries following the philosophy of ora et labora. A truly delicious experience that combines art, serenity and flavour.
3. The Setas de Sevilla viewpoint: a bird’s-eye view of Seville
While Las Setas (also known as the Metropol Parasol) are already well-known, few people make their way up to the viewpoint at sunset, when Seville is bathed in golden light. From the curved walkways, the 360º view offers a unique panorama of the historic centre, the Cathedral, the river, and beyond.
It’s the perfect spot to end a day of discovery with a drink in hand, the open sky above, and the soft Sevillian spring breeze as your companion. Go up, breathe deeply and dream.
4. Palace of the Countess of Lebrija: Roman mosaics and a passion for art
Tucked away on Calle Cuna is one of Seville’s most fascinating palaces: the Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija. Its exterior gives little hint of the treasure inside: over 580 square metres of original Roman mosaics, columns, vases, sculptures and architectural details collected from across Andalusia.
The palace was the life’s work of Doña Regla Manjón, Countess of Lebrija, an avid archaeologist who lovingly restored and decorated it with priceless pieces. Visiting it feels like walking through centuries of history inside a house that could easily be a museum, yet still maintains all the charm of a traditional Sevillian residence.
5. The American Garden: exotic nature by the Guadalquivir
Created for the Expo ’92, the American Garden is one of Seville’s most original green spaces – and one of its least known. Located next to the Pavilion of Nature, this botanical garden features unique species brought from the Americas, arranged in themed zones such as the Umbráculo, the Cactus Garden or the Vertical Garden.
Strolling through its lush, exotic vegetation while listening to the murmur of the river offers a different way to experience the city. Perfect for a quiet spring morning or a romantic escape for two.
Your perfect base for exploring: Apartamentos Puerta del Sur
Discovering these hidden corners is easier when you stay somewhere comfortable, well connected and with the freedom to plan your days your way. At Apartamentos Puerta del Sur, you’ll be able to explore at your own pace, free from strict schedules. And since our team knows Seville inside out, they’ll be happy to suggest more special places like these.
This spring, step off the beaten path and fall in love with Seville’s most secret side. Because sometimes, the greatest treasures are hidden in the most discreet corners.