Getting around in Seville

While the historic Andalusian capital may be old – Seville’s public transport system is anything but outdated. The city’s various modes of travel are modern and efficient, and Seville is easy to navigate. 

For residents living in Seville's city centre, a car is unnecessary. Driving through the winding one-way streets can be complicated and stressful, so the historic centre is best tackled on foot, by bicycle, bus, tram, metro, train or taxi.  

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Public transport in Seville

Seville has a variety of public transport options to fit the needs of all its residents and visitors. 

Buses

TUSSAM, Seville’s city bus system, is one of the most popular and efficient means of public transit available. Residents can purchase a reloadable multi-trip bus card at any kiosk. When waiting for the bus, people are expected to queue in an orderly manner. 

The only downside to the bus system in Seville is its schedule. Day buses usually stop running at 11.30pm (right after Spanish dinner time), and night buses run only until around 2am (a time when the night may still be young for many). 

Many bus services also connect Seville with other cities and towns. 

Metro

Seville's metro services link several areas and neighbourhoods, and stations are easily found through apps such as Google Maps. Not all areas can be reached by the metro alone and, depending on where an expat needs to go, they may also need to catch a bus to complete their trip. 

Trams

The tram, called MetroCentro, is a good alternative to the bus or metro for getting around the city centre, although many prefer walking the short distances covered by the tram. The tram routes also connect with the San Bernardo and Santa Justa train stations. 

As the tram is run by TUSSAM, passengers can use their bus card to pay for their trips. 

Trains

Seville’s train stations connect the city with the rest of Spain. Santa Justa is the main station and is also a regional hub. In addition to the standard trains, the renowned high-speed AVE train runs to major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Ticket prices depend on the destination and the train speed. 

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Taxis in Seville

Taxis make getting around Seville convenient. Fares depend on the distance and time of day. Drivers are strict about only transporting four people per taxi, and may charge extra for luggage. It's a good idea to ask for a rate estimation before taking a taxi in Seville. Passengers aren’t expected to leave a tip. 

E-hailing apps such as Uber are also available in Seville and are often preferred by expats because they eliminate the language barrier. 

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Motorcycles and driving in Seville

Owning a vehicle in Seville is not necessary thanks to the various modes of transport available. That said, for expats who frequently travel outside of the city, or expat families with children, having a car is convenient. Expect to rent a garage space, as street parking in the city is limited. Another option is buying or renting a scooter or motorbike, which eliminates parking and traffic issues. As always, safety is encouraged and helmet laws are enforced. 

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Cycling and e-scooters in Seville

Seville offers bicycle lanes and a public bicycle-rental system. Both expats and tourists benefit tremendously from Sevici, Seville’s public bicycle-sharing programme. The city’s roads have two-way bike lanes and there are bicycle rental stations throughout the city. 

Users can sign a short-term bike lease but year-long memberships are also available. This is an excellent and inexpensive way to get around Seville.

Similar to the bike-rental system, e-scooters can also be leased in Seville and this is linked to a phone application. E-scooters are a fun way to explore the city, but riders should be sure to park them in designated areas. 

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Walking in Seville

Getting around Seville is simple, primarily because the city centre is relatively compact. There are also plenty of landmarks that can double as great meeting spots or reference points for new arrivals. Seville's tourism office provides walking maps that highlight all of the centre’s famous monuments for new arrivals acquainting themselves with the layout.  

Expats should take care to keep to the sidewalks as far as possible, as they could be competing with cars, bicycles and motorbikes to cross some narrow one-way streets. Only cross the street at official crosswalks as jaywalking is dangerous and discouraged.