Pabellón de la Navegación, Seville

Museum in Seville

Pabellon de la Navegacion
Pabellon de la Navegacion
CC BY-SA 3.0 / 888pablo888

The Pabellón de la Navegación is a modern museum on Isla de la Cartuja, built for Seville's 1992 World Expo and set right beside the Guadalquivir River. From the outside it's all clean lines, concrete, and glass, but inside it leans into Seville's deep connection to Atlantic exploration with hands-on, multimedia galleries that keep the pace light and approachable.

It's best thought of as an easy, family-friendly cultural break rather than a heavyweight museum, and the real clincher is that your visit includes the Torre Schindler viewpoint next door. If you're looking to add variety beyond churches and palaces, this is one of the things to do in Seville that works particularly well when your walking tour of Seville takes you across the river for a different perspective on the city.

History and Significance of the Pabellón de la Navegación

The building is a direct legacy of Expo '92, when Seville used the island of La Cartuja to showcase contemporary architecture and big, future-facing themes. The pavilion's design by Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra reflects that moment: purposeful, minimalist, and built to handle crowds, while sitting prominently on the river that historically powered Seville's wealth and influence.

What the exhibition does well is connect the city's identity to navigation as both technology and human drama. Seville wasn't simply “near the sea”; it became a key inland port for Atlantic routes, with the Guadalquivir acting like a commercial artery tying the city to shipbuilding, trade, administration, and the lived realities of sailors and crews.

That focus makes the pavilion a useful context stop, especially if you’ve already visited places that tell the political story of empire and want the more practical, maritime side of it. You come away with a clearer sense of how the river shaped the city’s growth, and why Seville’s Atlantic century still echoes in its urban geography.

Things to See and Do in the Pabellón de la Navegación

The permanent exhibition, Seville and Atlantic Navigation, is arranged around four themes: navigation techniques, mariners, life on board, and historical visions of Seville. The tone is intentionally interactive, so you'll find plenty of audiovisual sections rather than long corridors of objects behind glass.

One of the signature spaces is the large “sea of lights” room, where sound and thousands of points of light simulate the feel of waves and open water, creating an atmospheric entry into the subject. From there, the museum shifts into big-picture storytelling with a huge blue mural that maps key moments in navigation history, supported by ship models that help make the timeline feel tangible.

The hands-on highlight is the steering platform with a wide projected screen, which is genuinely fun if you like immersive exhibits or you're visiting with kids. Finish with the historical Seville section, where interactive screens trace how the city evolved along the river, then head up the Torre Schindler for a clean, modern skyline view that's very different from the classic old-town viewpoints.

How to Get to the Pabellón de la Navegación

The nearest airport is Seville Airport (SVQ). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Seville on Booking.com. From there, it’s usually simplest to travel into the centre first, then continue to La Cartuja by taxi, bus, or a walk if you’re already on the riverfront.

Sevilla Santa Justa is the main train station. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. From Santa Justa, a taxi is the most direct option, while public buses can also get you to the La Cartuja/Torre Sevilla area depending on the route and time of day.

If you’re staying centrally, walking can be surprisingly straightforward: you follow the river north-west and cross via one of the bridges toward La Cartuja, which turns the journey into part of the experience rather than a transfer. If you’re driving, La Cartuja is easy to reach via the ring roads and main access routes, and you can then use nearby paid parking around the Torre Sevilla/Cartuja zone. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Pabellón de la Navegación

  • Entrance fee: €6.00 general; €4.00 reduced; free for children under 5 (with an accompanying adult); €2.00 promotional on selected days. The standard ticket includes the permanent exhibition and the Torre Mirador (Torre Schindler).
  • Opening hours: (Winter 2 January – 29 June; 2 September – 30 December): Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–19:30. Sunday: 10:00–15:00. (Summer 1 July – 15 August): Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–15:00. Torre Schindler times (Winter): Tuesday – Saturday: 10:30–13:00 & 16:30–18:30. Sunday: 10:30–14:00. Torre Schindler times (Summer): Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 & 13:00. Closed on Monday. Also closed on 1 January, 6 January, 1 May, 24 December, 25 December, 31 December, and Maundy Thursday – Easter Sunday; closed 16 August – 31 August.
  • Official website: http://www.pabellondelanavegacion.es/
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for a quieter, more relaxed run through the interactive rooms, then save the tower for when the light is clearer and the river views pop. If you’re visiting in summer, this is also a smart midday stop when you want an indoor break.
  • How long to spend: Allow 60-90 minutes for the exhibition plus tower, or closer to 2 hours if you want to linger with the interactive stations and take your time at the viewpoint.
  • Accessibility: The pavilion is designed for visitor flow and is generally easier than many historic sites, but the tower experience can involve timed access and queuing, so plan a little buffer.
  • Facilities: There is typically a café/restaurant offering and space that can host temporary activities, which makes this a convenient “reset” stop between outdoor walks.

Where to Stay Close to the Pabellón de la Navegación

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in Seville's historic centre so you can walk to the main monuments; if your priority is riverside modern Seville, Expo '92 landmarks, and easy access to La Cartuja, stay around La Cartuja or the Triana riverfront edge.

For the most convenient, modern base right in the La Cartuja/Torre Sevilla area, consider Eurostars Torre Sevilla. Another strong nearby option that suits families and travellers who like resort-style facilities is Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento. If you'd rather stay in Triana with a classic riverfront feel and still be close to La Cartuja bridges, Hotel Ribera de Triana is a practical pick.

Is the Pabellón de la Navegación Worth Visiting?

Yes, if you want a low-effort, high-variety stop that mixes Seville’s maritime story with an easy viewpoint in one ticket. Adults who prefer object-heavy museums may find the exhibits a little light, but the tower and the river context make it a worthwhile addition on a well-rounded itinerary.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (4,306)

Pabellón de la Navegación on Camino de los Descubrimientos is a spacious contemporary museum about navigation, the sea and exploration with interactive exhibits and bilingual signage and audio in Spanish and English; visitors praise friendly staff and docents, hands-on displays that appeal to both children and adults, special exhibits such as a Lego show, ship models and stories of Atlantic sailing, plus a tower offering panoramic city views (access to the tower can be limited to specific times and may require returning to reception), and hours can extend into the evening even if some listings say otherwise.

paul reidy
2 years ago
"Its a great spot to visit with a pano view of the city from across the river. You can get here by using the hop on/off bus at stop 8. You can gettickets from the navigation building and from there its a 2 min walk to the tower. Access to the top is by elavator or if u are fit you can walk!..."
Chrissy Thomas
2 months ago
"Note that the hours listed by Google are misleading. The museum is open until 19:30, not 13:00. This is a great museum with fun, interactive exhibitsthat teach you about the history of sea-going ventures, primarily from Spain. We went on a Friday afternoon and had the place almost to ourselves. The docents went out of their way to make sure we got the most out of the experience and we learned some interesting things about navigation and about history. Signage and audio are in both Spanish and English...."
Nicholas Lamptey
3 years ago
"Very nice Lego exhibition they have their every one needs to see it when they out there, it's an experience you never will forget!!!"

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This is one of the easiest museum-style stops in Seville with children because the experience is built around interactive rooms rather than quiet, hands-behind-backs galleries. The steering simulator and the “sea of lights” atmosphere give you natural highlights without needing deep background knowledge.

Plan around the tower timing so you’re not negotiating tiredness in a queue at the end. A good strategy is exhibits first, tower second, and then a snack break nearby to keep the whole visit feeling like a win.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the pavilion works best as a change of tempo: modern architecture, river views, and a lighter exhibition that doesn’t demand total concentration. It’s particularly nice if you’ve had a few days of heavy heritage sightseeing and want something different that still connects to Seville’s identity.

Treat the tower as the main moment, especially if you enjoy cityscapes and the contrast between old Seville’s towers and the newer skyline. Pair it with a riverside walk afterward to let the visit feel like part of a broader, unhurried afternoon.

Budget Travelers

The ticket’s value is strongest when you treat it as a bundle: exhibition plus viewpoint, in an area you might otherwise skip. If you’re pacing paid attractions, this can be a smart choice because it gives you both indoor content and a “big view” without an additional ticket.

Keep costs down by walking there along the river instead of using taxis, and build the rest of the day around free outdoor stops on La Cartuja and Triana. It's an easy way to add variety without stacking multiple admissions.

History Buffs

The pavilion is more interpretive than archival, but it’s useful for understanding how navigation shaped Seville’s role in the Atlantic world in practical terms. If you like big themes-technology, labour, river logistics, and the human realities of life at sea-you’ll get more out of it than someone looking only for masterpieces.

To deepen the visit, connect what you learn here to Seville’s river geography and the city’s administrative and mercantile sites back in the centre. The museum is at its best as context that helps you read the city differently afterward.

FAQs for Visiting Pabellón de la Navegación

Getting There

It’s on Isla de la Cartuja beside the Guadalquivir River, in the former Expo ’92 zone. The setting feels noticeably more modern than the historic centre, which is part of the appeal.
Follow the river north-west and cross one of the bridges toward La Cartuja, then continue along the riverside paths. It’s a straightforward walk that doubles as a scenic, low-stress way to reach the site.
A taxi is the most direct, especially if you’re short on time or carrying luggage. Public buses can also work, but routes and stops vary, so it’s best to confirm the most convenient line on the day.
Driving can be convenient if you’re already moving around Andalusia by car, because La Cartuja is easier to navigate than the old town. For a central Seville itinerary, walking or a short taxi is usually simpler than dealing with parking.

Tickets & Entry

The standard visit is designed as a combined experience, pairing the permanent exhibition with access to the Torre Schindler viewpoint. It’s worth pacing your time so you don’t rush either part.
Often you can buy tickets on arrival, but weekends and school-holiday periods can be busier, particularly for tower access. If you have a tight schedule, booking ahead helps keep your timing predictable.
The tower is usually managed via set time windows or passes, so arriving late can affect what you’re able to do on the day. It also helps to keep your visit order flexible, doing the tower when your allotted slot makes the most sense.

Visiting Experience

You can do a highlights loop and the tower in about an hour if you move steadily and focus on the main rooms. If you like interactive exhibits, give yourself extra time because the stations invite lingering.
It depends on your priorities: if you want classic Seville, you’ll likely focus on the cathedral-palace core first. If you want a different angle plus a viewpoint, this is a strong “modern Seville” addition.
Pair it with a La Cartuja riverside walk and a Triana visit, which gives you modern expo-era Seville and a more local neighbourhood feel in one outing. It works well as a half-day route without constant backtracking.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Many standard walking tours stay within the historic centre, so it’s not always included. It’s easy to add independently if you want your itinerary to include the river and Expo ’92 zone.
Independent visits work well because the exhibition is built around clear visuals and interactive stations. A guided option is most worthwhile if you want more context on Seville’s Atlantic institutions rather than the hands-on exhibits themselves.
Start with the pavilion and tower, then walk back along the river toward Triana for a change of atmosphere. You’ll get a viewpoint, a museum stop, and a neighbourhood stroll without needing complicated transport.

Photography

Yes, especially for architecture-and-river shots and skyline views from the tower. The contrast between modern La Cartuja and the historic city silhouettes makes for strong compositions.
Late afternoon often gives warmer light on the river and a more flattering skyline from the tower. Midday is workable, but the sun can be harsh and flatten the scene.
Rules can vary inside interactive spaces and temporary exhibitions, so it’s best to follow posted guidance in each room. For the tower, photography is usually the point, but be mindful of crowds and narrow viewpoints.

Accessibility & Facilities

It’s generally easier than many historic sites because the building was designed for large visitor volumes and modern circulation. The tower access can involve controlled entry and waiting, so allow extra time if you need a slower pace.
You can usually expect standard visitor facilities, and the site often supports events and activities, which helps keep it visitor-friendly. If you’re planning a longer visit, it’s still wise to factor in a café stop nearby.
Yes, the riverside setting gives you natural pause points outdoors, and the broader La Cartuja zone has open spaces where you can reset. This makes it a good stop to combine with walking, rather than treating it as a stand-alone museum dash.

Food & Breaks Nearby

The Torre Sevilla area is convenient for a practical, modern lunch stop without detouring back into the old town. Triana is the better choice if you want something more characterful after your visit.
Triana is the obvious pairing because it’s close and offers classic tapas energy by the river. It also works well to end the outing there, so you don’t feel like you’ve travelled “out of the way” just for the pavilion.

Safety & Timing

The riverfront routes are generally pleasant, especially around busier stretches near bridges and the Torre Sevilla zone. As with any city, stick to well-lit paths and keep an eye on belongings.
Early visits are calmer inside and make the interactive stations easier to enjoy without waiting. Later in the day can be better for views and photos, so it depends on whether you prioritise the museum experience or the tower moment.

The Pabellón de la Navegación appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Seville!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

(Winter 2 January - 29 June; 2 September - 30 December): Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-19:30. Sunday: 10:00-15:00.

(Summer 1 July - 15 August): Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00-15:00.

Torre Schindler times (Winter): Tuesday - Saturday: 10:30-13:00 & 16:30-18:30. Sunday: 10:30-14:00.

Torre Schindler times (Summer): Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00 & 13:00.

Closed on Monday. Also closed on 1 January, 6 January, 1 May, 24 December, 25 December, 31 December, and Maundy Thursday - Easter Sunday; closed 16 August - 31 August.

Price:

€6.00 general; €4.00 reduced; free for children under 5 (with an accompanying adult); €2.00 promotional on selected days. The standard ticket includes the permanent exhibition and the Torre Mirador (Torre Schindler).

Address: Pabellón de la Navegación, Camino de los Descubrimientos, 2 41092 Sevilla Spain
Seville: 2 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs

Real Alcazar of Seville
Real Alcazar of Seville

Best Palaces to Explore in Seville, Spain (2026)

Few cities in Europe rival Seville for its fusion of royal grandeur, Moorish artistry, and Andalusian charm. Across its sunlit streets lie centuries-old palaces - each a living monument to the city’s layered history. From royal courts and Renaissance mansions to hidden noble residences, Seville’s palatial architecture tells the story of a city that has […]

Last updated: 17th October 2025
Interior of Museum of Fine Arts of Seville
Interior of Museum of Fine Arts of Seville

17 Amazing Museums to See in Seville 2026

As the center of Andalusian culture and history, Seville is a delight lovers of both art and history lovers. Seville offers a number of museums which cover a wide range of subjects, from fine art, archaeology and even our most famous art flamenco! Visiting some of these museums should be integral parts of your adventures […]

Last updated: 5th October 2025
Amphitheatre Itallica
Amphitheatre Itallica

Discover Roman Seville 2026: Ancient Ruins, History & Highlights

The Romans governed the whole of Spain for more than six centuries. Seville was founded by the Phoenicians, who gave it the name of Hispalis: the Romans called it Julia. The Romans used the city as a commercial capital, and they built on the outskirts of Seville, a colony called Italica, where two of the […]

Last updated: 5th October 2025
Torre del Oro, Seville
Torre del Oro, Seville

16 Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain (2026)

Along with Córdoba and Granada, Seville is one of the three most famous cities in Andalucia. Seville allows you to discover a City with a very rich Moorish architectural and historical legacy. As can be seen from the colorful painted tiles that adorn many buildings, to the stucco ceilings of the palaces and of course […]

Last updated: 4th October 2025
Plaza Espana, Seville
Plaza Espana, Seville

12 Hours in Seville: Top Sights and Things to Do (2026)

Seville is an exciting city, situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. We have visited it twice before, once in springtime when the jacaranda trees were in full bloom, massive trees with beautiful purple flowers. The other time we sailed a boat up the river, which was a brilliant way to arrive. This time […]

Last updated: 7th October 2025