Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza - Plan Your Visit

A little planning goes a long way at the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, one of Seville's best-known monuments. Below you'll find the key details on tickets, opening hours, getting there and what to expect on the day.

Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza - Essential Visitor Info

Timings
Address & Directions
Facilities
Accessibility

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.

Bullfight Days: Visits run from 9:30 AM to 3 PM, as the arena is prepared for the afternoon's event.

Special Closures: The bullring can also close to visitors on days when concerts or other events are held in the arena.

Visit Duration: Plan on spending about one hour inside.

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are cooler and quieter, which makes a real difference during the Seville summer.

Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza - Nearby Attractions

Torre del Oro: Less than 500 meters south along the river, this 13th-century watchtower was once part of Seville's defenses and now houses a naval museum.

Triana Bridge (Puente de Isabel II): A short walk north along the river, this 19th-century iron bridge links the city center with Triana, a neighborhood known for its ceramics workshops and tapas bars.

Seville Cathedral and La Giralda: About 8 minutes away on foot, the Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic churches in the world and holds the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Together with the Giralda bell tower, it forms part of Seville's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mercado del Arenal: Just a few streets behind the bullring, this neighborhood market sells fresh produce and seafood and has small bars serving local dishes.

Teatro de la Maestranza: Almost next door to the bullring, Seville's main opera house hosts opera, symphonic concerts and dance throughout the year.

Real Maestranza: Guided tour

Highlights

Enjoy a one-hour guided visit through the historic Real Maestranza arena.

Gain priority entry to various sections of the bullring.

Use radio guides if needed for enhanced audio experience.

Explore paintings and architecture dating back to the 1700s.

Learn about the cultural significance of bullfighting in Seville with an expert guide.

Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza - Additional Info

Dining
Souvenir Store

During the Visit: Eating, drinking and smoking aren't allowed on the tour. The only exception is water, which can be drunk outside the exhibition halls.

Nearby Options: The El Arenal neighborhood around the bullring has a long tradition of tapas bars and restaurants, many of them closely linked to Seville's bullfighting culture.

Mercado del Arenal: A few streets away, this local market is a good stop for a quick, informal bite.

FAQs about Visiting the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza

Why is the Maestranza called a "temple" of bullfighting?

It is one of Spain's oldest and most prestigious bullrings, with a history dating back to 1761 and a central role in Seville's bullfighting tradition.

What is the Bullfighters' Chapel?

The Capilla de los Toreros is where bullfighters traditionally pray before entering the ring. Visitors can see the votive offerings left there over the years.

Does the venue have links to Spanish royalty?

Yes. It belongs to the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla, a royal noble order founded in 1670, and its painting and print rooms were opened in 2008 by the then Prince and Princess of Asturias.

What art can I see during the visit?

The exhibition hall holds oil paintings from the 18th to 20th centuries, mostly Romantic, along with prints and engravings.

Why is the arena not a perfect circle?

The center of the ring was moved during 120 years of construction to fit the site and suit bullfighting on foot, leaving an irregular shape.

Can I see works by Goya during the visit?

Yes. The print room includes engravings by Francisco de Goya.

Should I book tickets in advance?

Yes. Booking online ahead of time secures your preferred date and saves time on arrival, which helps during busy periods like the April Fair.

Can I bring large luggage?

Suitcases and trolleys aren't allowed inside, so it's best to leave large bags at your hotel or a luggage storage service before your visit.

How do I get to the bullring from Seville Airport?

Take the EA (Airport Special) bus to the Paseo Cristóbal Colón (Torre del Oro) stop, a few minutes' walk from the bullring.

Is the visit wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The visit is accessible to people with reduced mobility, and adapted toilets are available in the entrance area.

Are there rules about photography?

Photography for personal use is allowed, but flash isn't permitted inside, and tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed.

What should I do if it's very hot on the day of my visit?

Visit in the morning when it's cooler, bring water and wear light clothing that still respects the venue's modest dress guidance.

Can I eat or drink during the tour?

Food and drinks aren't allowed during the visit, except water outside the exhibition halls. The El Arenal neighborhood has plenty of bars and restaurants nearby.

Are pets allowed?

Only guide dogs are allowed inside the bullring.