La Giralda Tower, or the Giralda Tower, is a prominent Seville landmark located beside the Seville Cathedral.
It was originally built as a minaret during the 12th century under the Almohad dynasty and was transformed into the bell tower for Seville Cathedral after the Christians took over in 1248.
Most visitors to Seville Cathedral also explore the Giralda Tower, as a single ticket covers access to both sites.
Here’s everything you must know about La Giralda before planning your visit.
Giralda Tower tickets
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All the Seville Cathedral tickets grant direct access to both the Seville Cathedral and the iconic Giralda Tower.
Start your visit by exploring the cathedral’s magnificent interiors, including the breathtaking Gothic architecture, the Tomb of Christopher Columbus, and the ornate altarpiece.
Once you’ve enjoyed the cathedral, use the same ticket to enter the Giralda Tower.
Climb the unique 34 ramps to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Seville’s landmarks like the Royal Alcazar and Plaza de España.
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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La Giralda opening hours
The opening hours for the Giralda Tower are the same as those for the Seville Cathedral, as the two are part of the same complex.
La Giralda is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10.45 am to 6 pm and on Sundays from 2.30 pm to 7 pm.
Seville Cathedral’s last entry is at 5 pm on weekdays and 6 pm on Sundays.
The guests are asked to leave 20 minutes before closing time.
The best time to visit Giralda Tower
The best time of day to visit the Giralda Tower is between 4 pm and 5 pm when the crowds thin out, allowing for a more peaceful experience. This timing also lets you enjoy breathtaking sunset views from the top, making your visit truly unforgettable.
For those who prefer an even quieter experience, arriving right when the tower opens is a great alternative.
To avoid large crowds, plan your visit on weekdays, especially from Tuesday to Friday, rather than weekends.
Additionally, the best seasons to explore the tower are spring (March and April) and autumn (October and November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Also read: Seville Cathedral opening hours
How long does it take to visit?
Visiting the Giralda Tower takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much time you spend there.
If you’re visiting as part of a guided tour, the entire experience, including the Seville Cathedral, typically lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, with about 15 to 30 minutes dedicated to exploring the Giralda Tower.
The climb consists of 34 ramps that are designed to make the ascent gradual and accessible to most visitors.
On average, the climb itself takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your pace and whether you pause to admire the window alcoves or take photographs along the way.
Once at the top, many visitors spend another 15 to 30 minutes soaking in the panoramic views of Seville’s skyline and capturing memorable photos.
La Giralda key facts
- The lower part of Giralda Tower retains its original Almohad architecture, with horseshoe arches and decorative brickwork.
- The tower symbolizes the blend of Islamic and Christian cultures in Andalusia.
- The tower has 34 ramps instead of stairs, a unique feature that allows the muezzin (who calls for prayer) to ride a horse or donkey to the top.
- Upon reaching the top of the ramps, visitors will further see 17 steps that lead to the viewing platform.
- The Renaissance-style bell chamber houses 24 bells, making it one of the largest collections in Spain.
- The tower is crowned with a bronze statue called the Giraldillo, which was added in the 16th century. The statue represents Faith and acts as a weather vane. It also inspires the tower’s name, “Giralda,” meaning “she who turns.”
- The tower stands 94.69 meters (310 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Seville and taller than the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Big Ben.
- The Giralda has inspired similar towers around the world, including the Warden’s Tower in Kansas City, USA.
- The tower survived the 1356 earthquake that destroyed much of Seville.
- The observation area at the top offers unmatched panoramic views of Seville, including landmarks like the Royal Alcazar, Plaza de España, and the winding streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
Also read: Unknown facts about the Seville Cathedral
Tips to make Your Giralda Tower climb enjoyable
Take Breaks Along the Way
The ramps of the Giralda Tower have several cozy alcoves where you can pause, relax, and enjoy beautiful views as you catch your breath. These breaks not only make the climb easier but also let you soak in the charm of this historic tower.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
To ensure a smooth and safe climb, wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. The ramps are generally easy to navigate, but the surfaces can feel uneven in places, so good shoes will make the experience more enjoyable.
Be Mindful of the Space
The corridors of the tower can feel snug, especially as you climb higher. Stay aware of your surroundings and share the space with fellow visitors, making it a pleasant experience for everyone.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
For a more relaxed climb, plan your visit early in the morning or during off-peak hours (4 pm to 5 pm). This way, you can enjoy the ascent and the views without feeling rushed or crowded.
Stay Hydrated
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, bring a small water bottle to stay refreshed. Staying hydrated will keep you energized as you make your way up the tower.
Capture the Moments
Keep your camera or phone handy. There are plenty of photo-worthy spots along the ramps, offering glimpses of the tower’s interior and the cityscape of Seville.
Enjoy the View from the Top
Once you reach the top, take your time to savor the incredible panoramic views of Seville. If it’s a busy day, patience will ensure you get your turn at the viewing windows for that perfect photo.