If you want to see Seville from a breathtaking viewpoint, the Giralda Tower is a must-visit.
But long lines and crowds can spoil the experience if you’re not prepared.
In this article, you’ll find the best tips on buying tickets, ideal visiting times, and how to make your climb enjoyable.
Let’s help you explore this historic tower smoothly and stress-free.
What’s ahead
Giralda Tower tickets
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All tickets for Seville Cathedral include access to the Giralda Tower, so you can explore both with a single pass.
Start your visit inside the cathedral with its impressive Gothic architecture and the Tomb of Christopher Columbus, then use the same ticket to climb the tower.
Skip-the-Line Ticket Options
- General admission tickets: Access both cathedral and tower with one ticket.
- Guided tours: Enjoy priority access and expert commentary about the cathedral and the tower.
- Combo tours: Some include the Royal Alcázar along with Giralda Tower and cathedral access.
Guided tour of Giralda Tower
A guided tour of the Giralda Tower includes an in-depth exploration of both the Seville Cathedral and the tower itself.
The tour begins with the guide providing detailed historical context and fascinating insights about the cathedral and the Giralda Tower.
While guides usually accompany the group up to the tower’s entrance, the climb to the top is often done independently, allowing visitors to ascend the 34 ramps at their own pace.
Before parting, the guide offers instructions and highlights what to look out for during the climb, enhancing the self-guided portion of the experience.
Here are some top guided tours of Giralda Tower that you can consider:
- Cathedral and Giralda Guided Tour with Priority Access
- Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcázar Guided Tour
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When is the Giralda Tower open?
Giralda Tower shares opening hours with Seville Cathedral:
- Monday to Saturday: 10.45 am to 6 pm
- Sunday: 2.30 pm to 7 pm
Last entry for the cathedral is at 5 pm on weekdays and 6 pm on Sundays. Visitors are asked to leave 20 minutes before closing.
How to reach Giralda Tower and Seville Cathedral
Located in Seville’s historic Santa Cruz district, the cathedral and tower are within walking distance of many major city attractions.
Public transport and taxis are convenient options, and there are nearby parking facilities for those driving.
Must read: How to reach Seville Cathedral
The best time to visit Giralda Tower
To avoid crowds and have a peaceful climb, visit between 4 pm and 5 pm when the tower tends to be quieter.
This timing also lets you enjoy beautiful sunset views from the top, a perfect way to end your day in Seville.
Alternatively, arriving right at opening time guarantees fewer visitors. Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Friday, see fewer crowds than weekends.
Best seasons: Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) offer mild weather ideal for climbing.
Also read: Seville Cathedral opening hours
How long does it take to visit?
Climbing the Giralda Tower takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire views or take photos.
The ascent includes 34 ramps (instead of stairs), designed to make the climb gradual and accessible.
Guided tours usually spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the cathedral and tower together, with 15-30 minutes dedicated to the tower climb.
Once on top, spend some extra time soaking in the stunning panoramic views of Seville’s rooftops, the Royal Alcázar, Plaza de España, and the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
Fascinating facts about Giralda Tower
- The lower part retains original 12th-century Almohad architecture with horseshoe arches and decorative brickwork.
- The tower uniquely has ramps instead of stairs, originally designed so the muezzin could ride a horse to the top.
- After the Christian conquest, the tower was transformed into a bell tower with 24 bells, one of the largest collections in Spain.
- The tower is topped by the Giralldillo, a 16th-century bronze statue representing Faith and acting as a weather vane.
- Standing at 94.69 meters (310 feet), it’s taller than both the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Big Ben!
- The tower survived the 1356 earthquake that destroyed much of Seville.
- It has inspired towers worldwide, including the Warden’s Tower in Kansas City, USA.
Also read: Unknown facts about the Seville Cathedral
Tips to make your Giralda Tower climb enjoyable
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes: The ramps are easy but uneven in places.
✔️ Take breaks: Cozy alcoves along the way offer chances to rest and enjoy views.
✔️ Visit off-peak: Early mornings or late afternoons (4-5 pm) are best to avoid crowds.
✔️ Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially in warmer months.
✔️ Be mindful: The tower corridors can get narrow; share space kindly with other visitors.
✔️ Bring a camera: Photo spots abound along ramps and at the top.
✔️ Savor the views: Don’t rush once at the top; enjoy Seville’s skyline and iconic landmarks.