Real Alcázar Visitor Rules and Tips: Dress Code, Bags, Photos

There is no formal dress code at the Real Alcázar. The official site publishes none, unlike churches such as the Cathedral next door. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, bring only a small bag, and take all the photos you like for personal use.

What to wear

• Comfortable shoes. Palace floors are uneven in places and the gardens are large.
• Sun protection. Much of the visit is outdoors; in summer Seville is very hot. A hat and water make a real difference.
• Visiting the Cathedral the same day? Dress for the Cathedral: covered shoulders and knees are the safe choice there.

Bags

• Keep it small. Independent visitor guides report a security check at the entrance and that large backpacks and suitcases are not allowed inside.
• Travelling with luggage? Leave it at your hotel or a luggage storage service before your time slot.
• Upper Royal Quarters: expect stricter rules. Bags go in a locker before you go in. See Upper Royal Quarters.

Photos

• Personal photos are fine throughout the palaces and gardens.
• Professional shoots need a permit. The Alcázar sells permits, for example for wedding photography (€80.00, per the official visitor page).
• Best light: first slot of the morning or late afternoon. The Game of Thrones spots are in the gardens; see Game of Thrones at the Alcázar.

Your ticket, and what it asks of you

• It is for a time slot, not for the day. Late arrival is at the gate's discretion.
• Reduced and free tickets need their document, shown together with the ticket at the access control: an ID card, a student card, a disability certificate or an unemployment card. See free entry.
• It is not refundable. The official regulations allow a refund only when the visit could not take place for a reason attributable to the Alcázar; a closed room or a weather alert gives no discount either (article 8 of the official rules).
• Some visits are personal. For the special visits the shop states that tickets are nominative and that an ID or passport is requested at the access control; see special visits.
• You consent to being filmed. The shop's own sale conditions say the event may be recorded for commercial or promotional purposes.

Smooth-visit tips

1. Book a time slot on the official shop. The ticket-office queue is outdoors and can be long.
2. Arrive 10–15 minutes early at the Puerta del León (Lion Gate). See how to get there.
3. Do the palaces first, then the gardens, before the midday heat.
4. Allow two to three hours. See how long you need.

Related

• Practical guide: toilets, café, water, ATMs, lockers
• Ticket prices and where to buy
• Opening hours