Looking for a Sevilla must-see? On to Las Setas! We were struck by the audacity of this building, nicknamed for its shape reminiscent of giant mushrooms. A true architectural feat, also known as the Metropol Parasol, the structure has dominated the Plaza de la Encarnación since 2011 and is sure to amaze.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips for making the most of your visit to Sevilla’s Las Setas.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit Las Setas de Sevilla?
Are Las Setas worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, Sevilla’s Las Setas are well worth a visit. We liked this site for its bold architecture, its panoramic viewpoint accessible day and night, and the Antiquarium exhibition space in the basement, which holds some wonderful archaeological surprises. What’s more, the site is largely adapted for people with reduced mobility, a considerable asset.
It’s one of the best things to do in Sevilla!
WHERE TO STAY IN Seville
Option 1: In the historic center
Convenient for visiting everything on foot, we recommend:
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Between quiet streets and riverside ambience, we recommend it:
See our complete selection of the best hotels and neighborhoods in Sevilla
Why are Las Setas famous?
Las Setas owe their nickname to their distinctive silhouette. Six large wooden umbrellas evoke giant mushrooms emerging from the Plaza de la Encarnación, in the heart of Sevilla’s historic center. The structure’s real name is Metropol Parasol. Designed by German architect Jürgen Hermann Mayer, the complex measures 150m by 75m and is 28m high. We were surprised to learn that this isone of the largest wooden structures in Europe, with a surface area of 11,000m2. Its resolutely contemporary shape, in stark contrast to the traditional architecture of the area, is what struck us most when we discovered the site.
To learn more about Las Setas, book your guided tour now!
Our favorite moments
Here, in our opinion, are the three highlights not to be missed during your visit:
- The mirador: climb to the top of the building to enjoy an unobstructed panorama of the city, as beautiful by day as it is after dark.
- The Antiquarium: in the basement, archaeological remains unearthed during construction.
- La Encarnación market: take advantage of your visit to stroll through this lively market, nestled beneath the structure.
History in brief
The Metropol Parasol is a recent construction, but its history is intimately linked to Sevilla’s millennial past:
- 2003: the City of Sevilla launched a project to redevelop the Plaza de la Encarnación, which at the time housed an ageing market.
- 2004: German architect Jürgen Hermann Mayer wins the international architectural competition to design the site.
- 2005: Work begins. Archaeological excavations reveal Roman remains dating from the 1st-4th centuries AD, leading to the creation of the Antiquarium.
- 2011: inauguration of the Metropol Parasol, named Las Setas de Sevilla by the locals for its characteristic shape.
How to find us: Las Setas, Sevilla
Where are Las Setas located?
Las Setas are located in Plaza de la Encarnación, in the heart of Sevilla.
- In the heart of Sevilla’s historic center
- Plaza de la Encarnación, 41003 Sevilla
- A 10-minute walk from Sevilla Cathedral and its Giralda
- 5min walk from Palacio de las Dueñas
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How to get there?
Las Setas are located in the heart of Sevilla’s historic center, making them easily accessible:
- On foot: a ten-minute walk from the cathedral. The historic center is easily accessible on foot.
- By bike: the town offers a bike rental service with stops and parking facilities all over the town. More info on the official Sevici website here.
- By public transport: several bus lines serve the area, the nearest stop being Laraña / Imagen” lines 27, 32, A7. The T1 streetcar, “Archivo de Indias” stop, is also a convenient option from the center or Puerta de Jerez metro station.
- By car: traffic in the center can be heavy. We recommend parking in one of the nearby underground parking lots.
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Parking
Several underground parking lots are available in the vicinity of Las Setas. The nearest is the Parking Imagen next door at C. Sta. Ángela de la Cruz, 2. We recommend you opt for this solution rather than looking for a surface parking space, as traffic in Sevilla’s historic center can be complicated.
Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
Las Setas are open until 00:30 in high season, making them an ideal place to visit in the evening. We found that the structure takes on a whole new dimension when illuminated at nightfall. If you want to enjoy the viewpoint in full sunlight, it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid the heat, especially in summer. Outside peak season, you can visit at any time of day without suffering from the crowds. We recommend that you plan to climb up to the mirador in the late afternoon to watch the sun set over Sevilla.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow 1 hour for a simple visit, including the viewpoint. If you want to explore the Antiquarium and stroll through the Encarnación market, allow 1h30 to 2h. The site is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility: elevators provide easy access to the various levels. The panoramic walkway is spacious and flat, with no particular constraints on movement.
Advice on how to visit
We suggest you start your visit in the basement of theAntiquarium, to discover the archaeological remains in a quiet setting. Then head up the intermediate levels to explore the market and stores. Finish off at the mirador at the top, which offers the clearest view of the city. If you’re visiting in the evening, opt for the reverse sequence: first admire the sunset from the summit, then head down to explore the Antiquarium. We enjoyed this second route during our visit.
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Visiting with children
Las Setas is a family-friendly site. The site is accessible to people with reduced mobility, so strollers are no problem. The Antiquarium, whose remains we found to be particularly well-presented, can arouse the curiosity of younger visitors, although the site is more contemplative. The climb up to the mirador is sure to impress, as are the colorful evening lights. Take advantage of the walkway to explain the monuments you can see from the summit. We recommend that you visit the Antiquarium first, before lunchtime, for greater peace and quiet.
Schedules and rates
Sevilla’s Las Setas are open Monday to Sunday from 9:30am to 12:30am, with last admission at 11:45pm.
Rates:
- Full price (access to watchtower and Antiquarium): €16
- Reduced rate including children aged 6 to 14: €13
For other prices, visit the official website here.
Guided tours
A guided tour of the Metropol Parasol is available, and we recommend it if you wish to better understand the architectural and archaeological history of the site. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the technical choices that went into building this extraordinary structure. Book your guided tour now.
Catering
You’ll find several catering options directly in the Metropol Parasol. What’s more, you’re right in the heart of Sevilla’s historic center. Numerous restaurants are just a few minutes’ walk away. See our article on the best restaurants in Sevilla.
Outstanding architecture
The Metropol Parasol is first and foremost a technical feat. It’s impossible to remain indifferent to this structure in Sevilla’s historic center.
The Metropol Parasol: shape, dimensions, materials
During your visit, you’ll see that the Metropol Parasol is supported by six pillars rising to a height of 28m, forming a canopy measuring 150m by 75m. The 11,000m2 complex is considered one of the largest wooden structures in Europe. We were fascinated by the precision of the assembly: the wood is reinforced by concrete and steel members to ensure the building’s strength. Designed by German architect Jürgen Hermann Mayer and inaugurated in 2011, the Metropol Parasol is spread over 5 levels, housing stores, restaurants, bars and the Encarnación market. You’ll be struck by the contrast between this contemporary structure and the baroque facades of the surrounding neighborhood. In fact, we’d never seen such unique architecture in the whole ofAndalucia.
The view from the panoramic footbridge
The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the panoramic footbridge, which winds its way along the roof of the structure at a height of 28m. From up here, we could see Sevilla’s main monuments: the Giralda tower, the Torre del Oro, theAlcázar, and in the distance, the banks of the Guadalquivir. The view is particularly stunning at sunset. Take advantage of this unique perspective to find your way around the city before starting your visits. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos from the railing, as the walkway is spacious and well laid out.
What’s inside
Don’t limit your visit to the panoramic footbridge. The interior of Metropol Parasol is home to two spaces that are well worth a visit in their own right.
The Antiquarium Museum
During construction of the Metropol Parasol, archaeological excavations uncovered Roman remains dating from the 1st-4th centuries AD and Moorish artefacts from the Middle Ages. These discoveries led to the creation of an underground museum: theAntiquarium de Sevilla. Among them we saw mosaics, thermal baths and the remains of dwellings. Explanatory panels place these finds in their historical context, making for an informative visit. Head for the Antiquarium entrance as soon as you begin your visit to the site, to enjoy it in peace and quiet.
La Encarnación market
In the Metropol Parasol, the Encarnación market continues a long-standing commercial tradition in this square, which hosted a market long before the current structure was built. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere of this space, where local producers and craftsmen offer fruit, vegetables, fish and Andalucia specialties. It’s an ideal place to take the pulse of everyday life in Seville. Soak up the atmosphere as you linger in front of the colorful stalls, and don’t hesitate to sample some of the local produce.
Frequently asked questions
Can you climb to the top of Sevilla’s Setas?
Yes, access to the viewpoint at the top of the Metropol Parasol is included in the €16 general admission ticket. You can go up day or night, as the site is open until 12:30 a.m. (last access 11:45 p.m.). Elevators provide easy access to the panoramic walkway, which is also accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Do I need to book in advance to visit Las Setas?
In high season, we recommend that you book your ticket online in advance to avoid queuing at the ticket office. In low season, tickets can usually be purchased on site. For greater peace of mind, early booking is recommended for all periods.
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