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Seville Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 9, 2024

Seville is the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain. It’s a city full of gorgeous architecture, vibrant history, and wonderful food. I loved my visit to Seville.

Originally founded as a Roman city, Seville came to prominence after the Islamic conquest in 711. Today, the city is known for its flamenco dancing (which originated in Andalucía), its beautiful architecture that blends Islamic and European styles, and its scorching summers.

Seville is a big university town and is extremely popular with people studying abroad, making it a more affordable destination than cities like Barcelona or Madrid (it’s not as crowded either).

This Seville travel guide will give you everything you need to know to eat well, save money, and see the best sights Seville has to offer!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Seville

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in seville.

1. Tour Casa de Pilatos

Built in the 16th century, this beautiful Andalusian palace is a mix of Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudejar styles. It houses a collection of 16th and 19th-century paintings, as well as a sculpture garden of Greek mythological figures. It’s also the permanent residence of the Dukes of Medinaceli (a hereditary title in Spain) and boasts the world’s largest collection of azulejo (a traditional glazed tile artwork). Numerous films have also been shot here, including Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven , and Knight and Day to name a few. Admission is 12 EUR.

2. Explore Parque de Maria Luisa

Located just in front of the iconic Plaza de España, this 100-acre public park offers the opportunity to browse gardens, patios, and sculptures. The park is Seville’s main greenspace and is situated near the Guadalquivir River. Created in 1911, it’s a relaxing place to lounge, picnic, and people watch. Don’t miss the monument to Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote Don Quixote (the monument used to include statues of Don Quixote on his horse and Sancho Panza on his donkey but they have since disappeared).

3. Visit the Royal Alcázar

The Royal Alcázar of Seville (also known as al-Qasr al-Muriq) is the oldest residential palace in Europe still in use today. Dating to the 14th century, it’s an important example of Moorish architecture. There are giant galleries, ornate rooms, and beautiful gardens. The palace was built for the Christian king Peter of Castile atop a Muslim fort after Christian armies reconquered the city in 1248. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. General admission is 14.50 EUR. Free admission is available on Monday afternoons/evenings. Check the website for specific times.

4. Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter

Seville’s Jewish Quarter is filled with small winding streets and is generally regarded as the most charming part of the city. The area gets pretty crowded but there are numerous small alleys and streets to explore where you can escape the crowds. Don’t miss this part of town.

5. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Seville’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Seville has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, this tour is for you! Tours start at 89 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Seville

1. visit the catedral of sevilla.

This Roman Catholic cathedral dominates much of Seville’s skyline. Surrounded by Andalusian orange trees, the Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Sea) is one of Seville’s top tourist attractions. Lines can get long, partially because hours are limited around church services, so get there early. While you can just admire the stunning design and stained glass from outside, the Cathedral is where Christopher Columbus is buried, so it’s worth going inside. The bell tower also offers a panoramic view of the city. Admission is 11 EUR if you purchase online and 12 EUR in person. The audio guide costs 5 EUR (4 EUR if you use the app).

2. Check out Plaza de España

One of Seville’s most picturesque spots, Plaza de España was built at the northern edge of the Parque de María Luísa in the 1920s for the Ibero-American Exposition. The unique building mixes Baroque, Renaissance, and Moorish architectural styles, and there’s a small canal with Venetian-like bridges and gondolas. The Plaza has gotten a lot of attention in the past few years because it has served as a backdrop in film and TV, such as Star Wars and Game of Thrones . The murals along the sweeping arc of the building depict the various regions and municipalities of Spain. It also has benches that depict the 49 provinces of Spain in ceramic tiles. Admission is free.

3. Visit the Iglesia de San Isidoro

While this church is less popular than the Catedral de Sevilla, the Iglesia de San Isidoro is considered one of Seville’s most impressive churches. The 14th-century church was built on top of a former Arabic fortification and its fusion of Gothic and Mudejar styles is a common example of unique architecture in Andalucía. The intricate design makes this worth a visit. Admission is free but be sure to dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

4. Enjoy some contemporary art

The Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo (CAAC) is a contemporary art museum located just across the river from the city center. Housed in a former Franciscan monastery that dates to the 15th century (and was later a ceramic tile factory), today the museum hosts a collection of Andalusian artists. There are rotating exhibitions so check the website to see what’s on during your visit. Admission is 3.01 EUR, though there is free entry Tuesday-Friday from 7pm-9pm and on Saturdays from 11am-9pm

5. Learn about Spain’s colonial history

The General Archives of the Indies is a 16th-century building and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the Spanish Renaissance style, it contains a large collection of documents and artifacts related to Spain’s colonization of the New World. Highlights include the personal diary of Columbus and the Treaty of Tordesillas, which divided the New World between Spain and Portugal. Admission is free.

6. Visit the Flamenco Museum

Flamenco music and dance is an important cultural element of southern Spanish culture, and the Flamenco Museum in Seville is a great way to learn more about this unique style of performance. The museum features many intricately designed flamenco dresses and illuminates the history behind the dance’s origins. Admission to the museum is 10 EUR while live flamenco shows in the museum’s theater are 25 EUR.

7. Admire fine art

The Museo de Bellas Artes is a fine arts museum with works from the Middle Ages through to the 20th century. The museum lies in the Macarena neighborhood in a building that dates to 1594. Two floors in the building are full of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and crafts — many by artists from Seville or Andalucía. Admission is 1.50 EUR and free if you’re an EU citizen.

8. Take a Spanish class

Seville is a popular study abroad location for international students and there are a number of language schools catering to students from around the world. You can take Spanish courses for just a single week or longer. Many students choose Seville to study because of the big student population of the city, the affordability of the city, and the unique Andalusian culture. The CLIC language school offers a variety of courses for any number of weeks or months, plus affordable housing for those that want to stay with other students or in a homestay. A one-week intensive Spanish language course at CLIC costs as little as 205 EUR, though discounts are available depending upon a package or multi-week course.

9. Take in the view from the top of a mushroom

This large sculptural platform in the Plaza de la Encarnación used to be a car park but, in 2011, it was transformed into a massive public art project called Las Setas De Sevilla, or the Metropol Parasol. Resembling mushrooms (or more like a beehive in my opinion), the structure provides shade to the plaza below and there are two 85-foot panoramic platforms where you can take in the view. Admission to the platform is 10 EUR.

10. Hang out in Alameda

The best nightlife spot in Seville is in and around the Alameda de Hercules. The large, open-air plaza attracts many students and creative artist types who relax here drinking, playing music, and enjoying any of the tapas bars and outdoor seating that line the mall. Many of the restaurants and bars in the area offer live music and great deals on food & drinks too.

11. Relax on the Guadalquivir River

The first trip around the world originated in Seville when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan sailed out along the Guadalquivir River in 1519. The river was the main maritime route for Atlantic traffic for over 200 years, making Seville the mercantile center of the western world in the 16th century. These days you can enjoy rowing and canoeing on the river or just simply relax by the shore and take in the scene.

12. Take a bike tour

If you want to learn about the city’s history and see the main sights, take a bike tour. Depending on how fancy you want the tour to be, you can spend 25-40 EUR for a three-hour guided bike tour of Seville. You’ll cover a lot of ground, allowing you to see all the main sights in just a few hours. Sevilla Bike Tours runs morning and sunset tours daily for 30 EUR that are suitable for all ages.

For more information on specific cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Valencia Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Seville

Like most Spanish cities, Seville has a problem with pickpocketing and petty theft. The area around the Alameda de Hercules, a popular nightlife spot, was once very seedy and rife with crime and drug use, but that’s been cleaned up a lot in the past decade. Still, watch your bags when going out at night and avoid dark, empty streets if alone. Always keep an eye on your possessions when on public transportation as well.

If you go out at night, only bring the money you need and leave the rest locked up in your accommodation.

Tourist scams are prevalent as well so keep an eye out for groups of kids trying to distract you, as they’re probably trying to take your money. Additionally, be wary of people offering to carry your luggage. They may try to charge you a large fee.

When dining, keep your bags and belongings close and secure (especially when outside). Don’t leave your things on the table when going up to order. They can disappear quickly.

Read more about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct and make extra copies of your important documents.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Seville

Seville has a ton of hostel choices for any budget. My recommended places to stay are the following:

• Onefam Catedral
• Triana Hostel
• Black Swan Hostel
• Oasis Backpakcers Palace
• Sevilla Kitsch Hostel Art

Seville Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 12-20 EUR per night
• Hostel private rooms – 55-75 EUR per night
• Budget hotels – 40-100 EUR per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 30-60 EUR per night
• Airbnb apartments – 70-140 EUR per night
• Campsite – 5 EUR per night (40 EUR for cabins)
• Tapas – 7-15 EUR per plate
• Sit-down restaurants – 20 EUR
• Casual take-out places – 10 EUR
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 8 EUR
• Beer – 2-3 EUR
• Glass of wine – 5 EUR
• Cappuccino/latte – 1.50 EUR
• Bottled water – 1 EUR
• Groceries for a week – 40-45 EUR

Seville Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 50 eur per day.

If you’re backpacking, this budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation, and doing mostly free activities like relaxing in the park and seeing some of the churches. Add 10-15 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking.

Midrange – 135 EUR Per Day

On a midrange budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room. You’ll be able to eat out at cheap restaurants for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits or Spanish classes.

Upscale – 250 EUR Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, take more taxis, and do as many guided tours as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

Seville Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Food, drinks, and tours can add up in Seville if you aren’t watching your spending. This is one of the more expensive cities in Spain. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of free things to do here. Here’s how to save money in Seville:

Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Get the Tarjeta TurÍstica pass – If you plan on using the bus or tram often, get this pass. A one-day pass costs 5 EUR and provides unlimited access to all public transport. A three-day pass costs 10 EUR.

Visit the Royal Alcázar on Monday – The Royal Alcázar has free admission on Mondays, so plan accordingly to save money. Specific times vary by season so check the website for an up-to-date schedule.

Buy your own alcohol – While drinks are hardly expensive at bars and restaurants in Seville (and in Spain as a whole), you can save yourself a lot of money if you buy your own beer and wine. Many locals buy their own bottles and drink in public at the Alameda de Hercules in the evenings, taking advantage of the street performers, buskers, and musicians that crowd the plaza on weekends.

Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from a local. While hostels aren’t too expensive in the city, this is still the best way to save money and deepen your travel experience.

Go on a free walking tour – Like most of Spain, there are many opportunities to take advantage of free walking tours. Seville has a number and many depart from Plaza del Salvador. You just need to tip your guide. My favorite is New Europe. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

Visit the markets for groceries & cheap tapas – The Triana Market is one of the main food markets in Seville and has many fruit and vegetable vendors. There are food markets in each of the major Seville neighborhoods, and sometimes the smaller ones outside the main tourist trails even have small, local restaurants with great food deals. The Mercado de Feria is a favorite. Buying snacks, small meals, and groceries at the local neighborhood markets can cut down on your food budget.

How to Get Around in Seville

Seville’s many tourist neighborhoods, or barrios, are all pretty close to one another and can be easily walked. However, since it gets super warm in the summer, taking the bus or tram is much more comfortable.

Public transportation – There is an extensive bus network that operates in Seville and can help you get from one edge of the city to another. Tickets can be bought on board and cost 1.40 EUR per trip. A one-day travel card, the Tarjeta TurÍstica, costs 5 EUR (10 EUR for a 3-day card).

Seville’s tram system connects to some of the further out areas of the city (and it’s air-conditioned). The tram is part of the same public bus system so tickets are the same price.

Bicycle Rental – Bike rentals are a great way to save money while seeing the sights from a new perspective. Rentals in Seville cost around 15 EUR per day.

Taxis – Taxis start at 2.50 EUR, with normal tariff being 1 EUR per additional kilometer. Skip them if you can as the prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Seville but it won’t save you a ton so skip it and stick to the bus.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day, however, you don’t need a vehicle in Seville unless you’re planning to leave the city and explore the region. Renters need to be a least 21 and have an International Driving Permit. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Seville

Like most of southern Spain in Andalucía, Seville gets a lot of sunshine and has hot summers. I think the best time to visit is between March and May when crowds haven’t peaked but the weather is still warm and sunny.

The Easter season is especially popular in Seville because of the famous Feria (a large fair), which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists and religious pilgrims. Part of the Semana Santa holy week, it’s a beautiful time to visit because of the colorful dresses and the many street activities and parades, but it does get crowded and expensive during the holy week.

In the summer (June-August), the weather is hot and sunny, with daily highs reaching upwards of 38°C (100°F). While the city is lively during the summer, it can be very taxing to explore in the heat.

The winter months (December-February) offer more comfortable temperatures, usually around 7-18°C (45-65°F). The city is much quieter, making it a nice time to visit if you want to beat the crowds and don’t mind some chilly days.

Seville Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Seville Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Seville travel and continue planning your trip:

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

How to Teach English and Live in Spain

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Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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Home » Europe » Spain » Seville

INSIDER SEVILLE ITINERARY (for 2024)

With buzzing Flamenco bars and plazas framed by orange trees, Seville is the kind of holiday destination that never fails to charm! Whether you’re crossing lively public squares towards UNESCO World Heritage Sites or soaking up the atmosphere as the sun sets, the activities on our Seville itinerary will set you up for an unforgettable vacation!

There’s so much to take in throughout the Andalusian capital but Seville’s gentle pace will constantly remind you to take things easy! Seville has been through the hands of the Phoenicians and the Moors before it joined Spain. All these cultures have left a mark of this sunny city, making this city an unassuming cosmopolitan melting pot in southern Spain!

With architecture galore and plenty of stops for local tapas, our itinerary is the kind that steals your breath away with its fabulous sites and easy pace much like Seville itself!

A Little Bit About This Seville Itinerary

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There are plenty of attractions in Seville to capture your attention and atmospheric parks to soak up the Spanish sun! Whether it’s just a weekend in Seville or much longer, we have the perfect Seville itinerary for you!

Note that the main attractions get very busy. It is always worth booking ahead for La Real Alcazar of Seville. 

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2 Day Seville Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Seville: Real Alcazar | Seville Cathedral | La Giralda Bell Tower | Cobbled Streets | Parque de Maria Luisa | Plaza de Espana

Day 2 in Seville: Metropol Parasol | Museum of Fine Arts | Torre del Oro | Restaurante La Casa del Tesorero | Royal Tobacco Factory | Flamenco Dancing

More Places to See in Seville: Archaeological Museum | Museo Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija | Casa de Pilatos | Triana

Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain and the capital of the beautiful Andalusia region. It’s a very popular destination for tourists and long-term visitors and has neighborhoods to suit all tastes! There are 11 districts that are further divided into 108 neighborhoods.

In the north, the neighborhood of Macarena is the commercial center with vibrant bars. It’s a trendy, hipster-style area that’s near the old Moorish walls. There’s also plenty of souvenir shopping to be done at the Mercado de la Feria and El Jueves!

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Triana and Los Remedios are the most trendy areas. They have tonnes of clubs, restaurants, and stores, making them full of fun and adventure! Despite the youthful atmosphere, it attracts people of all ages. Triana used to be a Roma neighborhood and remains energetic with flamenco clubs and bars. Los Remedios is very modern but quirky. It’s home to some of the best museums in Seville and some striking architecture!

The most popular neighborhood for visitors, though, has to be Barrio Santa Cruz. It’s the historic center of Seville that has most of the attractions on your Seville itinerary, such as the Seville Cathedral and the Real Alcazar. There’s a stylish, yet warm ambiance to this area. Narrow, cobblestoned alleys bypass towering Moorish-era landmarks, while orange trees are scattered around historic squares.

For more information, read through our AMAZING guide on where to stay in Seville in 2 days.

Best Hostel in Seville – Black Swan Hostel Sevilla

When you talk about quality for money, this is the place you should have in mind! The central location is top-notch and the hostel has a warm, stylish atmosphere. Each bed comes with a large locker, a powerpoint, and a lamp. Additionally, the hostel is also committed to eco-friendly practices!

There are some more INCREDIBLE options for hostels in Seville!

Best Airbnb in Seville – Room in renovated villa

This 500-year old beauty of a house is one of our favorite Airbnbs in Seville . It has three stories and is full of Spanish history and character. The room is your own private area, but the whole house is yours to explore and enjoy. Sit in the courtyard garden and enjoy your tea or coffee while listening to the trickle of the fountain. Enjoy a restful bath after a long day exploring the town.

Cook a meal in the rustic style, well-equipped kitchen. Take in the beautiful sunshine and orange-blossom-scented air of Seville on the rooftop terrace. From the house, you are a short walk to the major sights, such as Catedral de Sevilla (4 min walk), Jardines de Murillo (4 min), Museo del Baile Flamenco (6 min), Iglesia del Salvador (9 min), and many others – ideal base for a Seville City break.

Best Budget Hotel in Seville – Hotel Plaza

Hotel Plaza has to be the best place to stay in Seville if you’re on a budget! It’s centrally located, just 100m from the Plaza Nueva in Old Town. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern and clean bathrooms. These kinds of facilities will set you up for a wonderful vacation in Seville!

Best Luxury Hotel in Seville – Hotel Palacio De Villapanés

This breathtaking combination of modern luxury and traditional features is the absolute best place to stay in Seville! It’s a converted 18th-century palace in Old Town that really lives up to royal standards! There’s a lovely rooftop terrace with a plunge pool and an in-house restaurant serving Andalusian food.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Today’s all about getting to grips with the most awesome Seville landmarks and soaking up the relaxed vibe of this city! With mosques that became cathedrals and colorful Moorish tiles giving way to Renaissance marble, you’ll see how various cultures and periods have left their mark on Seville.

Today’s itinerary is a packed one. It is doable but we suggest starting early and paying to skip the line at Real Alcazar. 

9:30 AM – Real Alcazar

The Real Alcazar may be a historic site, but it is also one of sublime beauty! It was decorated with plasterwork, mosaics, and wooden coffered ceilings. These original features can still be seen, alongside Renaissance features. These include a tiled altar and a collection of tapestries depicting the Spanish conquest of Tunisia.

Be sure to find the dazzling Patio de las Doncellas, a courtyard renowned for its tiled pillars. Another beautiful courtyard is Patio de las Muñecas which features various decorated capitals. At the end of your visit, linger a bit longer in the spectacular palace gardens which boast impressive water features! If you’re looking for Instagram-worthy shots, you’ll find them here!

Only 750 people are allowed inside the palace complex at a time and preference is always given to those who have booked ahead. Buy your skip-the-queue tickets online. It’s also advisable to book a guided tour or add the audio guide for $7USD as there isn’t much information provided inside the palace.

• Cost:  $13 USD for general admission and an extra $5 USD for entrance to the royal apartments
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  2.5 hours if you skip the line
• Getting There –  Metro Line M1 to Puerta de Jerez

12:00 PM – Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral was originally a mosque until Islamic Seville was conquered by the Christian King Ferdinand III in the middle of the 13th century. He had the mosque converted into a church but the orange tree courtyard that you can visit today is a remnant of the original mosque!

The church was built in the Gothic style and was later renovated during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The interior of the church is dark and spacious which gives it a serious hushed atmosphere! Your attention is immediately drawn to the dramatic vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. One stained glass window, of the four evangelists, measures 9m and dates from the mid 16th century!

One of the highlights of the cathedral has to be the chance to visit Christopher Columbus’ tomb. That’s right, the great explorer’s here, too! His coffin is carried by life-size pall-bearers made of stone. It’s quite an impressive site!

In the Treasury, you’ll be left breathless by the sheer extravagance of the items, if not their beauty! Gold, silver, rubies, diamonds…you name it, it’s all here!

• Cost:  $10 USD
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  1 hour will be plenty
• Getting There –  It’s a 4 minute walk from the Alcazar

1:00 PM – La Giralda Bell Tower

La Giralda was originally built in 1195 as the minaret of the Aljama Mosque but was later converted to Seville Cathedral’s bell tower. At 103m tall, it was the tallest building in Seville for over 800 years!

Look closely (perhaps with a camera zoom!) at the weather vane on the top of the tower. This is where this Seville landmark gets its name: girar means “to turn” in Spanish. This statue, called  El Giraldillo, represents faith. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Walk up the bell tower for spectacular views of Seville attractions and the cathedral’s architecture! Don’t be daunted by its height there are ramps inside which allow for a fairly comfortable ascent! The Giralda Tower is a marvel.

• Cost:  Admission is included in the $10 USD fee for the cathedral
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  30 minutes
• Getting There –  It’s next door to the Cathedral

2:00 PM – Lunch!

Just behind the cathedral you can’t miss the winding cobbled streets. Take some time explore this quaint area and duck in to a some of the boutiques and souvenir shops. You will also notice the fine aromas drifting out of the many cafe’s and taperia’s. Presuming you have worked up an appetite by this point in the day, sick one and dive in for some delicious lunch.

In case you need more specific direction, then I suggest yummy montaditos, small local sandwiches, at Bodega Santa Cruz. Go easy on the vino though as we still have more cool stuff to see! If it’s your first time in Seville then the culinary scene will blow your mind.

3:00 PM – Parque de Maria Luisa

Alongside the meandering Guadalquivir River, French architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier cultivated a lush public park to be the setting for the Ibero-American Exhibition in the early 20th century. The exhibition was intended to boost morale following the loss (of independence) Spanish colonies suffered by promoting the Andalusian industry. Times have since changed but the Parque de Maria Luisa does remain a cheering stop on any Seville itinerary!

The expansive park is perfect for a Seville walking tour of your own! There’s a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere as you stroll beneath the orange and palm trees beside the river. Be sure to find the statue of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of  Don Quixote  who was imprisoned in Seville, on the Plaza de America.

Bypassing colorful flowers, choose your favorite tiled bench or pavilion for a short rest to appreciate the gushing of nearby water features. Sit back and relax as one day in Seville begins to wind down. If you’re really looking to add some indulgence to your Seville itinerary, hail a horse-drawn carriage!

• Cost:  Free!
• Getting There – Walk here –  It’s 15 minute walk from the lunch stop

4:30 PM – Plaza de Espana

It may sound like a public square but Plaza de Espana is actually the monumental building you see in the midst of the Parque de Maria Luisa. It’s such an iconic landmark that you cannot travel to Seville without a visit here!

The monument may look centuries-old but it was actually only built in 1929 as the centerpiece of the Ibero-American Exhibition! It was designed to showcase Spanish accomplishments to the world.

Around the building is a moat on which visitors can row hired boats. There are four bridges crossing the water, each representing the old kingdoms of Aragon, Castille, Leon, and Navarre. 48 pavilions represent the 48 provinces of Spain. These are decorated with ceramic tiles to display Spanish craftsmanship.

This monument has since doubled as a film set and you may recognize it from  Lawrence of Arabia  or  Star Wars: Attack of the Clones ! Regardless, it should definitely be on your Seville itinerary as a leisurely visit to it is one of the most  pleasant things to do in Seville, Spain!

• Cost:  Free admission; $6 USD to hire a rowing boat for 45 minutes
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  60 – 90 minutes
• Getting There – Walk here –  It’s 15 minute walk from the park

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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With our itinerary in Seville, it’s time to admire some more city views and to get up close to the cultural arena. You heard right, it’s Flamenco time!

10:00 AM – Metropol Parasol

As thoroughly modern as the Seville cathedral is ancient, Metropol Parasol should be out of place in the historic Old Town. Somehow, though, it manages to fit right in! Its purpose is to provide shade but it’s also a popular monument in its own right that is a must see in Seville in 2 days.

It was designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer and completed in 2011. Ever since,  Las Setas  (The Mushrooms), as the locals call it, has been dividing opinion over whether it should even exist! You’ll likely be convinced of its worth, though, as soon as you take the elevator to the top level of the structure. The panoramic views are a highlight of any two-day itinerary in Seville!

On the ground level, Roman ruins and mosaics that were discovered on the site are housed in the Antiquarium of Seville.

• Cost:  $3 USD
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  60 minutes
• Getting There –  Walk here

11:30 AM – Museum of Fine Arts

Spain’s been home to some of the world’s most famed artists in history and with two days in Seville, it’s time you paid homage to some of their masterpieces! The Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1835, and many think that the location alone is worth the entrance fee!

The museum houses a substantial collection of art from the Golden Age of Spanish painting in the 17th century. The most magnificent ones are hung in the former church. The star artist of this collection has to be Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Look out for his  Immaculate Conception  which is a prime example of the physicality that’s typically present in Baroque art. Another luminous work of his is  Saint Anthony of Padua with the Child .

Diego Velázquez, one of the most famous Spanish artists , was a local of Seville. Many of his early works can be found in the museum, most prominent of which is  Don Cristóbal Suárez de Ribera .

As if that’s not enough, Spanish masters El Greco and Goya also have paintings here! If you have a weekend planned in Seville, Spain, this is a must-see!

• Cost:  $2 USD
• Getting There –  It’s a 20 minute walk from Metropol

1:00 PM – Torre del Oro

Torre del Oro means “Golden Tower” but this ancient landmark in Seville, Spain, is made of the usual brick! It was, however, coated in a mortar which, when hit by the sun, gave off a gold color. Sadly, this can no longer be seen but there are other treasures at the Torre del Oro!

Like so many Andalusian monuments, Torre del Oro shares both a Moorish and Spanish past. The tower was originally built under the rule of the Muslim Almohad dynasty as a part of the defenses along the Guadalquivir River. It was later conquered by the Christian Spanish. It suffered significant damage from an earthquake in 1755 and was restored by the passionate pleas of locals.

Today it houses the Naval Museum of Seville. There’s an exhibition on the history of the tower but the focus is on Spain’s glorious naval history. The rooftop terrace also boasts some of the best city views you’re likely to see while on your Seville itinerary for two days!

• Cost:  $3 USD or free on Mondays.

2:00 PM – Lunch at Restaurante La Casa del Tesorero

By now you should be hungry. Happily, there are plenty of places to eat near to our destinations. These range from Burgee King & The Hard Rock cafe all the way to the sublime, Italian gem that is La Case del Tesorero. The risotto’s are not to be missed.

3:00 PM – Royal Tobacco Factory

It may seem like an unusual attraction to put on your itinerary but trust us when we say you’ll regret it if you don’t visit the Royal Tobacco Factory! It was Spain that introduced tobacco to Europe in the 16th century and the demand just kept growing. The factory even expanded to such an extent that it was the second largest building in the country! 75% of all cigars sold on the continent were produced here!

This is one of the most popular Seville attractions because of the beautiful architecture. It resembles a fortified palace, with a dried moat on three sides of the building. This was necessary since tobacco was such a valuable commodity. There was even a prison for tobacco smugglers!

The factory is also known as the setting of the opera  Carmen  where the leading character works and falls in love with a guard!

The tobacco factory was moved in the 1950s and today the building is home to the Hispalense University.

• How Long Should I Spend Here?  60 minutes is plenty

6:00 PM – Flamenco Dancing & Dinner

Flamenco originated in southern Spain and Seville offers visitors some of the best Flamenco dancing in the world! Originally, Flamenco involved only singing but it has since involved to include guitar and the flamboyant dance that’s loved around the world! Don’t fall for just any Flamenco show, though; make sure to follow our recommendations for an unforgettable celebration! This is one of the definitive things to do in Seville in 2 days.

Our favorite  tablao  has to be Los Gallos Tablao Flamenco. It’s one of the oldest in the city and is situated in a historic traditional house. This only enhances the authenticity of the Flamenco experience! For a modern twist, there are plenty of cocktails and sangria!

Casa de la Memoria is another sure bet for an epic Flamenco experience while touring Seville! The intimate environment is the setting for two shows daily and no day brings the same show! For those interested in learning, there are guitar and dance classes in Flamenco.

• Cost:  Around $21 USD
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  2 – 3 hours
• Getting There –  It depends which venue you choose

If you have 3 days in Seville or more, then there are a lot more must see’s. Let’s look at what to do with three days in Seville.

Archaeological Museum

This airy building allows its various antiquities to speak volumes to an often mesmerized audience. The Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans were all settlers of what is now Seville. Although the history of the area is traced through archaeological discoveries, the Roman period is the most well-documented.

Most of the Roman objects come from the nearby site of Italica. Look out for the Ecija Mosaic which dates from the 3rd century BCE! There are also sculptures of Emperors Trajan and Hadrian who were born in the region.

The Treasure of Carambolo is another popular collection in the museum. This dazzling collection replicates Phoenician gold artifacts made around 650 BCE!

Museo Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija

Merging Roman mosaics with Renaissance masonry, this palace is one of the most charming places to visit in Seville!

The ground floor houses the countess’ Ancient Rome collection which includes some of the best-preserved mosaics in Spain! The masterpiece of the palace is the Pan mosaic which awes visitors with its size. There are also marble statues and Etruscan ceramics.

To see the upstairs, you have to join a guided tour that’s included in the price since the family still use these rooms from time to time. It’s totally worth it for the chance to see Arabic, Baroque, and Spanish-style rooms! A bit of family history is also on display in the form of jewels and military medals.

Casa de Pilatos

This large private residence was built between the 15th and 16th centuries for an Andalusian mayor after his pilgrimage to Jerusalem. His revitalized piety was the inspiration for much of the house’s decor!

As time went by, the family expanded the palace and today it offers prime examples of the different architectural styles that have influenced Seville.

Make sure to visit the Chapel of Flagellation which is considered to be the oldest room in the building. Although it’s a chapel, it often gives the impression of being a mosque or a pagan temple due to the intricate mosaics and Roman sculpture on the altar!

The Casa de Pilatos was the first private house in Seville to have a staircase. It’s situated beneath a magnificent dome and is a stunning representation of local craftsmanship!

Visit Triana

Start your Seville walking tour of Triana by crossing the Isabel II Bridge over the Guadalquivir River from Old Town. You’ll find yourself in Plaza Altozano. Here, a statue of local bullfighter Juan Belmonte stands before images of Virgin Mary painted on colorful buildings.

Triana’s home to a centuries-old ceramics industry  due to the abundance of clay along the Guadalquivir River. It started with the Romans and flourished under the Moors who invented the  azulejo,  the little tile that used decoratively in nearly every grand building in Seville.

The business has since dwindled but there’s a lovely museum that continues to honor the craft. Centro Cerámica Triana not only documents Triana’s ceramic industry but also explains how various tiles were made. The city’s finest tile shop, Ceramica Santa Ana, is just next door. Having been in business for over 150 years, there’s not much chance of you leaving empty-handed!

Much of Triana’s historical population was Roma who would gather in communal courtyards forfestivities. When people say Flamenco came from Seville, it’s this tradition that they’re talking about! Triana has produced many brilliant Flamenco artists so pull up a chair and order a drink if you hear the music from a nearby bar!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

The weather in Seville, Spain, is generally quite lovely: think blissfully warm summers and mild winters. If you want to know when to visit Seville , bear in mind that the city’s sometimes called “the City for all Seasons” due to the mild climate!

Its inland location means that it’s one of the warmest cities in Europe. Come winter, many northern Europeans flock to the city, for this reason, Seville is seldom deserted.

Peak season tends to run from April to August, although July and August can be unbearably hot. Things calm down in winter, except around Christmas festivities. When Easter falls at the end of March/beginning of April, the Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Abril (a spring festival) cause crowds to swell and so do prices.

So, when should you visit Seville? Try to plan your trip to Seville so that you’re there in spring when the crowds aren’t too dense and the weather is pleasant!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Seville

Santa Cruz is one of Seville – and Andalusia’s – most iconic neighbourhoods and one of the best area to stay in Seville. It is home to Seville’s most famous attractions, including the Real Alcazar, Seville Cathedral and the Plaza de Espana.

• Marvel at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See (the Cathedral of Seville), an impressive Roman Catholic cathedral.
• Climb to the top of Torre Giralda and take in the incredible views of the city.
• Explore the exceptional Real Alcazar, one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in Spain.

Adding to the charm of your Seville itinerary, you’ll have to get around on foot for the most part! The abundance of tight alleyways and one-way streets make driving such a nuisance that few tourists bother to put up with car rentals. If you do, you’ll find the usual array of Avis and Europcar at the airport. Be warned, though, that parking is a nightmare unless your hotel comes with a garage!

On the rare occasion that you can’t walk to an attraction on the Seville itinerary, turn to the city’s bus network. Tickets can be bought at stations, kiosks, or on the bus. It’s USD $2 for a standard ticket, but it’s more cost-effective to purchase a three-day pass for  USD $12. This will cover all your transport needs as you hop around and wonder what to do.

Taxis are another reliable option to get around the city. You’ll find them across the city. It’s a flat rate of $29 from the airport to the city center.

Don’t worry too much about safety when planning a trip to Seville! There’s generally little violent crime but there are common scams and pickpocketing that you should watch out for.

When you’re in crowded places like the Seville Cathedral or the Real Alcazar, keep your valuables close to your person. Forget your back pockets and only use your front pockets. Avoid deserted ATMs that look broken – they may be rigged to steal from you. These are just a few of our tips that will keep you safe on your Seville itinerary.

To prevent being completely stranded if you are robbed, keep copies of all your important documents, like your passport, apart from the originals. 

It’s also common for women to give you rosemary, offer to read your palm and then demand money. It’s rather a hassle, so say ‘no’ upfront if you’re not into it.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Seville

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Seville itinerary.

What should you include on a Seville 3 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these top Seville highlights: – Plaza de España – Metropol Parasol – Seville Cathedral – Real Alcazar

Where should you stay if you have a full Seville itinerary?

Home to great accommodation options and many top attractions, Santa Cruz is the ideal base for exploring Seville.

What are some unique things to do in Seville?

Seville is full of awesome things to do. Check out the Tobacco Factory, walk up La Giralda Bell Tower, and enjoy an original Flamenco show.

When is the best time to visit Seville?

March-May are the best months to visit Seville, offering great weather and smaller tourist crowds.

Seville revels in rich history which has both spectacular architecture and cultural traditions. From the lavish Real Alcazar to the soaring La Giralda Bell Tower, there are many beautiful sites to see this in Seville!

The magic of Seville, though, lies in its charming culture! Church bells ring out across squares and the iconic Flamenco clap calls many to the nearest bar. From the vibrant hues of Triana’s buildings to the abundance of flowers in the Parque de Maria Luisa, you’ll be struck by the volume of color.

As you eat your way through tapas and inhale the nutty Andalusian wines, you’ll often have views of the medieval cathedral or the modern cityscape. This kind of sensory experience is the real attraction that will make Seville your new favorite city! Start packing for Spain and book your accommodation.

Combining the rich history of Seville with its equally rich cultural scene is no easy task but our selection of what to do will make your trip as effortless as possible! For even more Seville inspo checkout this guide by The Spain Travel Guru !

Buy Us a Coffee !

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Mathilde Magnier

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4 days in seville itinerary: the best way to see seville [2024].

Seville is one of my favourite Spanish cities. It’s absolutely beautiful and there’s so much to see and do.

You could easily fill a whole week in Seville with an array of different activities, sightseeing and amazing places to eat and drink.

However, don’t worry, because you can still pack so much into 4 days in Seville without your time feeling too rushed.

So if you’re looking for the ultimate 4 days in Seville itinerary then read on because I’ve got you covered!

Top Tips for Spending 4 Days in Seville

Luckily before arriving in Seville one of my friends had a travel guide given to her from a friend who had visited Seville just a couple of weeks before we did.

His guide included lots of tips about where to go, what to see and where to eat, as well as the main tip, which I want to tell everyone planning on visiting: PREBOOK YOUR TICKETS to all the attractions you want to visit.

I’d recommend pre-booking tickets to the main attractions, such as the Cathedral, La Giralda and Iglesia de El Salvador.

Not only do they sell out very quickly but queuing to buy these tickets on the day takes hours and you’ll be waiting in the boiling sun with no shade.

We appreciated his tips so much as when we arrived, we could see where we would have been queuing, so I hope you’ll take this on board so I can help you plan your trip ready for when you visit!

Day 1 of your 4 Days in Seville Itinerary

Early morning: brunch at the parceria cafe.

Address: Calle Calderón de la Barca, 9, 41003 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 662 34 87 92

Let’s start with brunch, as I’m sure after travelling you’ll be hungry and what better way to start a trip than with a lovely meal?

For your first meal in Seville, head to The Parceria Cafe for a bite to eat. It’s rated very highly on TripAdvisor and I can confirm the food is amazing.

They have lots of variations of their ‘toastas’, which are essentially toasted bread with your choice of toppings.

I’d definitely recommend the ‘toasta’ with avocado, prosciutto ham and mozzarella. It was absolutely delicious!

Late morning: Visit Casa de Pilatos

Address: Pl. de Pilatos, 1, 41003 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 22 52 98

After filling up, start your trip with lots of sightseeing around the city.

First head to Casa de Pilatos , the Andalusian palace.

Built back in the 16th century, the architecture is absolutely stunning.

It was originally the “living residence” of the royal family, so it’s very fortunate that visitors are allowed to visit but once you arrive, you’ll see why.

It’s beautiful!

Early afternoon: Visit Parque de María Luisa and Plaza de España

Parque de María Luisa address: Paseo de las Delicias, s/n, 41013 Sevilla

Plaza de España address: Av. Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla

Then onto Parque de María Luisa , a public park that stretches along the Guadalquivir River.

After a stroll around the grounds, there’s a lovely bar with outdoor seating where you can stop for a jug of sangria and watch the world go by.

Any excuse for a sangria, right?

Finally, head to the iconic Plaza de España , which is on the edge of Parque de María Luisa.

This beautiful, semi-circle-shaped building has a water feature running around it where you can rent out a rowing boat and row around.

I’d definitely recommend renting out a rowing boat as not only is it a great opportunity to see the architecture up close but it’s fun too!

It’ll only set you back €5 for 30 minutes, so it’s a no-brainer really.

Late afternoon: Walk along the Guadalquivir River

Up next is the Guadalquivir River. It’s a beautiful river that runs alongside the park with a plethora of bars and restaurants on the water’s edge to choose from.

As you can imagine, it’s a lovely spot to stop and sit with a drink!

After lots of walking, sightseeing, and drinking sangria, I’m sure you’ll be ready for a quick siesta back at your hotel and a change of clothes before this evening’s outing.

So pop back and get ready to eat some delicious food.

Early evening: Dinner at Mareaviva

Address: Calle Luis Arenas Ladislao, 151, 41005 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 57 41 76

On the first night of your 4 days in Seville itinerary, I’d recommend heading to Mareaviva .

It’s an amazing Mediterranean restaurant with a wide choice of dishes so there will be something for everyone.

It’s also in a great location as it’s right by the Seville Football Stadium.

I’d recommend trying to get tickets if you’re there while a match is on as well.

I wasn’t lucky enough to catch a match but hopefully, I will time my trip a little better next time I visit.

Late evening: Go bar hopping

There are lots of great bars in Seville so why not spend your first evening doing a little bar hopping?

There are too many to recommend so I’ll name a few and you can pick your route!

Here are some fancier cocktail bars that I loved: The Second Room, Premier Garden Cocktail Bar, Sherry Cocktail Bar, Premier Los Remedios, and Premier Nervion.

However, if you’re like me and sometimes like to visit the local Spanish bars then here are some more suggestions: Casa Anselma, Bar Carmela, Bar Tequila, El Pasaje Sevilla, and Urbano Comix.

Day 2 of your 4 Days in Seville Itinerary

Early morning: breakfast at almazen café.

Address: Calle San Esteban, 15, 41003 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 955 35 97 64

Start day two off the right way: with a big breakfast to get you through the day after what I’m sure would have been a rather heavy night the night before!

I’d recommend heading to the lovely little Almazen Café .

They serve a traditional Spanish breakfast or if you fancy something a little lighter, they also do smoothie bowls and pastries.

It’s all fairly cheap but also delicious so a very happy medium for all.

Late morning: Visit the Cathedral and La Giralda

Address: Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla

If I were you, I’d make sure that this is the day that you pre-book your tickets for the Cathedral and La Giralda .

I say this because, I’m sure, after all the walking you’re about to do, on your third day you’re going to be pretty tired and want to relax a little.

And of course, as these are three of the main sights in Seville, you won’t want to wait!

Tickets to all three attractions are approximately £10.

Although they were relatively expensive, as you’d want to visit all three, I’d suggest going inside them all as they were beautiful.

You’ll see why they are worth every penny when you see them from the outside.

However, if you do want to save your pennies, entry to the cathedral is free on Mondays from 16:30 to 18:00 if you reserve your ticket online.

It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Seville !

I’d recommend starting at the Cathedral, followed by La Giralda, before having a quick bite to eat for lunch.

Midday: Lunch at Cervecería Giralda Bar

Address: Calle Mateos Gago, 1, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 22 82 50

It’s time for one of the best parts of the day: lunch.

I’d recommend Cervecería Giralda Bar which is conveniently located very close to La Giralda.

This little tapas bar is situated in a beautiful building and the food is as amazing as the architecture!

Early afternoon: Visit Iglesia del Divino Salvador

Address: Pl. del Salvador, 3, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 21 16 79

After a delicious, traditional Spanish lunch, it’s time to visit Iglesia del Divino Salvador, the main Roman Catholic church in Seville.

It’s not far from La Giralda so it’ll be the perfect time to visit.

As you can see from the photo above, the architecture is wonderfully unique, so this spot is definitely not one to miss.

Late afternoon: Visit Setas de Sevilla

Address: Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla

Before dinner, make your way to the Setas de Sevilla , a huge, unique structure with a viewing platform.

It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset, so make sure you time it right, as the structure benefits from panoramic views over the whole city!

It only cost €3 to go up and there’s a bar and restaurant at the top if you want to extend your stay.

Evening: Dinner at Perro Viejo

Address: Calle Arguijo, 3, 41003 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 955 44 00 30

Pedro Viejo is a beautiful, traditional Spanish tapas bar which you’d definitely miss if you weren’t looking for it!

Before visiting Seville, I had read a few blogs about how amazing this tapas bar was and this hidden gem did not disappoint.

I’m not usually one to order ribs, but after the number of recommendations, I just had to try them.

They were BBQ flavoured and not to over exaggerate, they were the best ribs I’ve ever tasted.

Combined with their ‘papas bravas’, their terrace and live music, it’s a lovely spot for a bite to eat!

Day 3 of your 4 Days in Seville Itinerary

Early morning: breakfast at la cacharreria de sevilla.

Address: Calle Regina, 14, 41003 Sevilla or Calle Carlos Cañal, 5, 41001 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 21 21 66 or +34 955 60 75 14

For your third breakfast, head to La Cacharreria de Sevilla .

It’s a lovely brunch bar with pastries, toastas, waffles and everything else you could possibly want in the morning.

Two of my favourite things about the bar were its traditional Spanish decor and its delicious cake.

If you still have room after your breakfast, make sure you order some cake!

Daytime: Relax at a rooftop pool

Address: Calle Segovia, 6, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 22 94 95

Seville gets incredibly hot in the summer months, so on your third day, you might decide to treat yourself to a day at a rooftop pool to embrace the heat and relax a little.

I’d recommend the rooftop pool at Fontecruz Seises Hotel which was €20 for either a morning or afternoon session.

This included a cocktail, a sunbed and a towel.

After walking miles and miles the past two days, I’m sure you’ll appreciate a few hours to relax.

Late afternoon: Cocktails at a rooftop bar

Address: Calle Alemanes, 27, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 56 00 00

After a classy day at a rooftop pool, why not carry it on with cocktails at a rooftop bar that overlooks the Cathedral?

The bar is called La Terraza del EME and admittedly, although it’s free to go up, the drinks were pretty pricey.

However, I have to say it is absolutely worth every penny.

I’d recommend going up to see the views, even if it’s only for one drink, and if you want to save some money, opt for the Cerveza con limon which is only €6.

Evening: Dinner at La Bartola

Address: Calle San José, 24, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 955 27 19 78

Let’s carry on with another delicious restaurant this evening.

La Bartola is an amazing, traditional Spanish restaurant located quite near to the Palacio de los marqueses de Salinas.

(This is also a must-see at night as it’s lit up beautifully!)

They have a huge variety of tapas dishes; however, I had the calamari to start and a steak dish for my main, and they were both delicious.

I’d recommend booking in advance as it’s very popular and you won’t want to miss it!

Day 4 of your 4 Days in Seville Itinerary

Early morning: breakfast at panypiu.

Address: Calle Cabeza del Rey Don Pedro, 15, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 21 93 48

After a very relaxing day yesterday, I’m sure your final day will have arrived way too quickly.

For your last day, there is another long walk ahead to make sure you see all the landmarks before heading home.

But first, breakfast! I went to a lovely bakery called Panypiu , which serves takeaway food and has a few seats inside if you’re lucky.

They do amazing pastries but also an English breakfast if you’re missing home by your fourth day. I personally opted for a pastry and it was delicious!

Late morning: Visit Plaza de toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla

Address: Paseo de Cristóbal Colón, 12, 41001 Sevilla

After a lovely breakfast, it’s time to explore again!

Start at Torre del Oro to Plaza de Toros de la Real, the old military watchtower that overlooks the river.

It’s free to go up to the top to see the view but there’s also a museum inside where you can learn about the history of Seville.

Afterwards, head to Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla, the old bullfighting ring which is also free to enter.

However, if you want to learn more about its history, you can pay for a guided tour which is around €8 or even better, €5 for students.

Midday: Lunch at Toc Toc Tapas

Address: Calle Santo Tomás, 15, 41004 Sevilla

Now onto lunch. On the menu, today is tapas of course!

I loved Toc Toc Tapas and would definitely recommend visiting before heading home tomorrow.

Perfectly placed in the square by the Alcazar, you can sit outside and enjoy the wonderful view.

Toc Toc Tapas has a great selection of tapas dishes perfect for a lunchtime snack, including the pork and sweet potatoes which I couldn’t recommend more!

Afternoon: Visit the Seville Museum of Fine Arts and the Basílica de la Macarena

Seville Museum of Fine Arts address: Pl. del Museo, 9, 41001 Sevilla

Basílica de la Macarena address: Plaza de la Esperanza Macarena, 1, 2, 41002 Sevilla

Now onto the final landmarks on your Seville itinerary, starting first with the Seville Museum of Fine Arts .

Even if you’re not particularly into art, it’s still a beautiful building with gardens inside.

And even better, it’s free to enter too!

Next head to the Basílica de la Macarena.

Known as the most valuable treasure in Seville, this yellow church house is an absolute must-visit.

It’s €3-5 to enter; however, even if you just go for a walk around the building, it’s absolutely beautiful so well worth the walk!

Evening: Dinner at BACO CUNA.2

Address: Calle Cuna, 2, 41004 Sevilla

Phone number: +34 954 21 11 07

For your final dinner, you won’t be disappointed with a meal at BACO CUNA. 2 , one of the top restaurants on TripAdvisor.

Choose between an indoor seating area or sitting outside to watch the world go by while eating your dinner.

Their croquettes were the best I’ve had yet so don’t miss out on trying those even if it’s just for a starter!

The paella was also amazing so why not go all out and have a very Spanish themed meal for your final night in Seville?

It would be rude not to, right?

After a wonderful 4 days in Seville, I’m sure you’ll be raring to come back.

Seville is a beautiful, traditional Spanish city that I’d recommend to anyone.

The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture and authentic culture, so you’ll definitely be in no shortage of great activities to add to your Seville itinerary. 

Seville Travel Guide​

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Welcome to Seville, a city that exudes charm and history with its stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and lively flamenco culture. With its intriguing combination of ancient history and modern flair, Seville is a destination in Spain that will capture your heart… as it did mine! 

I’ve visited Seville three times now and each time, I discover something new to love about this vibrant city.  Whether you’re exploring one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, taking in the stunning views of the city from the quirky Las Setas , or savoring some tapas and local wines, Seville will captivate you with its beauty, authenticity, and passion.

Read on to learn more as I share my essential Seville travel tips so that you can plan your dream trip!

Seville Facts and Figures

Today, Seville is recognized as one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Spain, with a deep history and heritage that continues to attract visitors from around the world. 

Here are some interesting facts about this beautiful city.

• Seville is the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain, with a population of over 690,000 people.
• Seville was founded as the Roman city of Hispalis in the 2nd century BC and later became a major center of commerce and culture during the Islamic period.
• Seville played an important role in the Age of Discovery, with Columbus setting out from the city on his second and fourth voyages to the Americas.
• During the Golden Age of Spanish literature, Seville was home to many prominent writers and artists, including the playwright Lope de Vega and the painter Diego Velázquez.
• Seville was a center of political and cultural resistance during the Spanish Civil War, and many of its historic buildings were damaged or destroyed during the conflict. The city has since undergone extensive restoration and renovation, including the restoration of the Alcázar of Seville, which suffered damage during the war.
• Seville hosted the 1992 World Exposition, which brought major infrastructure improvements to the city and helped to boost its tourism industry. The Plaza de España, a grand plaza in the Parque de María Luisa, was built for the exposition and features elaborate tilework and a moat. Today, it’s one of the city’s main tourist attractions.
• Seville is known for its hot and dry summers, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) in July and August.
• The Cathedral of Seville is the one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and is the final resting place of Christopher Columbus.
• The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace originally built by the Moorish rulers of Andalusia and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Seville is famous for its cuisine, including dishes such as gazpacho, salmorejo, and pescaíto frito (fried fish).
• Flamenco, the traditional music and dance of Andalusia, originated in Seville and is still a vibrant part of the city’s culture today.
• Seville is the setting for many famous works of literature, including Don Juan by Lord Byron and The Barber of Seville by Pierre Beaumarchais.
• Seville has a rich history of bullfighting, with the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla being one of the most prestigious bullrings in Spain.
• The University of Seville is one of the oldest universities in Spain, founded in 1505 by Cardinal Francisco Jiménez de Cisneros.

Visiting Seville, Spain: Travel Tips

Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip to Seville.

Getting to Seville

Seville is a major hub for transportation in southern Spain, with an international airport and high-speed rail connections to Madrid and other cities so it’s super easy to get here. 

Travelling from Cadiz to Seville? Then check out our Cadiz-Seville transport guide for everything you need to know.

If you’re coming from outside of Spain, it’s best to fly into the city. Seville has its own international airport, the Seville Airport (SVQ), which is located about 10 km from the city center. It offers direct flights from many European cities, as well as some destinations in North Africa. 

There are also some domestic flights from other Spanish airports but depending on where you’re coming from, you may be better off taking a train or bus versus flying (more on that next!).

The Seville airport is pretty small so don’t expect much on top of the basic services and amenities. 

Seville is well-connected by rail to other cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga. The Santa Justa train station is located about 2 km from the city center.

Here are approximate travel times for trains to Seville from other major Spanish cities:

• Train from Madrid to Seville: The AVE high-speed train connects Madrid and Seville in about 2.5 hours, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities. I’ve done this journey before and it’s super comfortable and fast – I would highly recommend it!
• Train from Barcelona to Seville: The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Seville is by AVE high-speed train, with a travel time of about 5.5 hours.
• Train from Valencia to Seville: The travel time between Valencia and Seville by train is about 6 hours, with direct connections available by high-speed train.
• Train from Malaga to Seville: The travel time between Malaga and Seville by train is about 2 hours, with direct connections available by high-speed train.

Tip: Travel times may vary depending on the specific train service, departure time, and any connections involved. It’s always best to check schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient journey to Seville. Typically, tickets are available up to 4 months before your travel date. Head to the Renfe website (be sure to toggle to the English language for easy navigation) to search for your routes.

Seville has a modern bus station, the Estación de Autobuses Plaza de Armas, which serves many domestic and international destinations.

The bus station is located not too far from the historic center and depending on where you’re staying, you may be able to walk there. If not, no worries. Ths bus station is also a local transportation hub and there are numerous public buses that serve the station (lines 3, 6, 21, 43, A2, A7, C3, EA). 

You can search for and buy bus tickets online and the bus company will depend on your departing destination. ALSA , which runs services across Spain, is a good place to check first. 

Travel times may vary depending on the specific bus service, departure time, and any connections involved but here are some estimated travel times:

• Bus from Madrid to Seville: The travel time between Madrid and Seville by bus is approximately 6 hours, with several bus companies offering regular services.
• Bus from Barcelona to Seville: The travel time between Barcelona and Seville by bus is approximately 14 hours, with direct connections available from some bus companies.
• Bus from Valencia to Seville: The travel time between Valencia and Seville by bus is approximately 10-12 hours, with some services requiring a transfer in Madrid.
• Bus from Malaga to Seville: The travel time between Malaga and Seville by bus is approximately 2.5 hours, with frequent direct connections offered by several bus companies.

As you see, taking a bus to Seville takes longer so if you’re short on time, then traveling by train is the best option. That said, bus tickets are cheaper so there is a trade-off. 

If you prefer to drive, Seville is well-connected to other cities in Spain by highways and roads. 

However, keep in mind that parking in the city center can be challenging, so it’s best to park outside and take public transport or walk. On my last trip of Seville, our car basically stayed in its parking lot during our entire stay there as we walked everywhere. 

Car Rental Recommendation

If you’re looking for the best prices for car rental during your stay in Spain, check out Discover Cars . Just plug in your location and dates and you’ll get the best deals available. Super convenient and easy! 

Getting Around Seville

Once you’re safely in Seville, getting around the city is easy. Most of the key tourist attractions and places of interest are located within Seville’s historic center, so the best way to get around is by foot. 

You can easily plan your days to focus on specific areas if you’d like to minimize walking across the city. Walking around Seville is also an awesome way to get a taste of the city’s vibe and maybe even stumble across some hidden gems!

If you’d like to be a bit more mobile, there are bike and electric scooter rentals located around the city. It’s fairly inexpensive and what’s more, it’s a fun way to explore Seville! There are bike lanes available on the larger streets, although I don’t believe any are available within the historic center itself. If you do decide to go with an electric scooter, do note that the uneven ground in the historic center will make it a bit challenging to scooter quickly. 

Seville has an efficient and modern public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro line. The public transport network covers most areas of the city and is relatively inexpensive. As a visitor, I would say that you’re most likely to use the tram or buses. 

Buses in Seville

The bus system in Seville is extensive and easy to use. Bus stops are clearly sign-posted and you can buy a bus ticket when you board. Buses typically run from around 6.00am to 11.30pm and there are some night buses that run until 2.00am. At the time of publishing, a single-journey ticket costs €1.40. 

There are also two transport card options that offer more value for money:

• Tarjeta Multiviaje is a rechargeable card (with a refundable deposit for the card) that can be use on buses and the tram. The minimum amount is seven euros and when using this card, each journey costs less than a single-journey ticket (under €1). You can buy and recharge a card at kiosks and estancos (tobacconists). This is ideal if you’re taking multiple bus or tram journeys during your Seville visit. 
• Intended for short visits, Tarjeta Turista offers a one-day card (€5) or three-day card (€10) with unlimited travel.  These can be purchased in the TUSSAM Information Points at Prado San Sebastián, Plaza Ponce de León y en Avda. Andalucía, 11. Like the Multiviaje, there’s a €1.50 deposit fee.

For more information on buses in Seville, visit the TUSSAM website .

Tram in Seville

Called the MetroCentro, the T1 tram is a short-distance tram with just 4 stops. It goes south from Plaza Nueva through the centre of the city (with a stop next to the Alcazar( to the San Bernardo train station.

A one-way ticket costs €1.20 and you can buy tickets at the machines on the tram platform (be sure to validate them when you get on the tram!). It’s cheaper if you have a Tarjeta Multiviaje card. 

Taxis in Seville

Taxis are a convenient and efficient way to get around Seville, especially for if you are traveling in a group, have mobility issues,  or when you need to travel with luggage. That said, there are some taxi drivers that take advantage of tourists so here’s what you need to know about taking a taxi in Seville. 

Taxi fares in Seville are metered and are based on the distance traveled and time taken. There are additional charges for weekends, holidays, night journeys, and for carrying luggage. You can expect a taxi from the airport to the center of Seville to cost around €20. ( Click here to see a breakdown of how tariffs and charges are imposed.)

There are taxi stands located throughout the city, including at major transport hubs, such as the airport, train station, and bus station. You can also flag down a taxi on the street, but it’s often more convenient to use a taxi stand to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

Taxis in Seville are generally safe and reliable, but it’s always best to take precautions when using any form of public transport. Make sure to only use licensed taxis, check the meter is running, and keep your belongings with you at all times.

Best Time to Go to Seville

In my opinion, the best time to visit Seville is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with warm days and cool nights. The crowds are also thinner, and prices for flights and accommodation are generally lower.

In spring, Seville is in full bloom with colorful flowers and lush greenery. This is the perfect time to visit the city’s many parks and gardens, including the famous Parque de María Luisa and the stunning Alcázar Gardens. The city also celebrates its annual Feria de Abril (April Fair) during this season, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy flamenco music, dance, and traditional food.

Autumn is another great time to visit Seville, as the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the city on foot. This is also the season for the annual International Film Festival of Seville, where film enthusiasts gather to watch the latest independent films from around the world. 

I’ve visited Seville twice during the autumn months and it’s my favorite time to visit in terms of vibe, weather, and activities. 

I would discourage you from visiting Seville in the summer months. Summer in Seville can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The high temperatures can make it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day, and many locals take their holidays during this period. However, if you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer can be a good time to experience the lively nightlife and outdoor events and festivals that take place throughout the city.

Winter in Seville is mild, with occasional rain and cool temperatures. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, then winter in Seville is for you. I’ve visited Seville in February towards the tail end of winter and loved my time there. It was still lively but not overly crowded and some days, with the warm sunshine on me, it didn’t even feel like winter! Learn more about winter in Seville in this article.

Overall, the best time to visit Seville depends on your preferences and travel style. Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. For a closer look at the weather in Seville and tips for enjoying the weather, read this article. You can also read our more in-depth article on the best time to go to Seville .

How Many Days to Spend in Seville?

Seville is lively and vibrant and there’s a lot to do here! On my first visit, I was in Seville for only 3 days and felt so sad to leave. I recommend spending at least three to four days in Seville to get a good sense of the city and its attractions. This timeframe would allow you to explore the historic center, visit the main landmarks, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

Ideally, if you have time to spare, I suggest 4 to 5 days in Seville as this would allow you to include a day trip in your itinerary. Seville to Cordoba is one of the most popular day trips and it’s well worth the effort – I’ve done it myself! Other day trip possibilities from Seville include the ancient Roman city of Italica or the charming town of Carmona.

However, if you’re short on time, it’s still possible to see the highlights of Seville in just a weekend (that is, 1 to 2 days). In this case, I recommend focusing on the must-see attractions and planning your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in the city.

• Check out our One Day in Seville Itinerary to help you plan the perfect day!
• Have more time? Then our Seville 2-day itinerary might work for you
• For the ideal trip, spend 4 days in Seville

What to Do in Seville, Spain

Here’s a quick overview of the best things to do in Seville, Spain:

• Marvel at the Real Alcázar: This stunning palace complex is one of Seville’s top attractions, with its beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and fascinating history. Here, you’ll get a closer look at the city’s Moorish past and it’s a wonderful complement to the Alhambra, if you’re visiting Granada as well. 
• Explore the Cathedral of Seville: This massive Gothic cathedral is the third largest in the world and boasts impressive features such as the Giralda Tower and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The walk up the Giralda is long and steep but the view is totally worth it!
• Wander around the Santa Cruz neighborhood: This charming, historic district is filled with narrow streets, picturesque courtyards, and traditional houses, making it the perfect place to wander and soak up the local culture. I’ve gotten delightfully lost in this neighborhood but didn’t mind it at all. 
• See a flamenco performance: Seville is known as the birthplace of flamenco, and there are many opportunities to experience this passionate dance form through performances at local venues. I’ve watched flamenco twice in Seville and both times, the performances were so emotional and moving.
• Wander around the Plaza de España: When you say Seville, it’s often a picture of the Plaza de España that comes to mind. This iconic landmark is a must-see, with its grand size, stunning architecture, and intricate tilework depicting each province of Spain. If you’re lucky, you might come across flamenco artists performing here… it’s such a cool experience! 
• Explore the Triana neighborhood: For a more authentic, down-to-earth side of Seville, head across the river to Tirana. This lively and colorful district is known for its vibrant nightlife, local markets, and ceramic shops. Tirana feels more lived-in and real and it’s fun to wander around the neighborhood. 
• Go to the Metropol Parasol (aka Las Setas) : Here, you can enjoy a more quirky side of Seville. This modern and innovative wooden structure is a unique addition to Seville’s skyline and provides stunning views of the city. You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists just hanging out and it’s a great place to people-watch. 
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts: Calling all art-lovers! This museum houses an impressive collection of Spanish art, including works by famous painters such as Velázquez and Murillo. (Pssst, entry is free for EU nationals!)
• Stroll along the Guadalquivir River: If you want a spot of relaxation, a walk along the Guadalquivir will do the job. This scenic river provides a unique perspective of Seville, with views of iconic landmarks such as the Torre del Oro and the Maestranza bullring. Take in the sunshine, the sights, and mingle with locals. 
• Visit the Mercado de la Encarnación: I love learning about a city through its food and there’s no better way to do that than to visit a local market. This indoor market is a food lover’s paradise, with its wide variety of fresh local produce, meats, and seafood.

These top 10 attractions provide a well-rounded experience of Seville’s history, culture, and beauty and you can easily cover them in 3 to 4 days! For the full list of things to do in Seville, click here .

And the fun doesn’t stop in Seville when the sun sets – check out the best things to do in Seville at night .

If you’re looking to spend some time by the sea, check out the best beaches close to Seville .

Recommended Tours & Activities in Seville

• Discover the city’s highlights on a free walking tour ! I love walking tours and take them whenever they’re available. They’re an awesome way to get to know a city when you first arrive.
• The line to enter Seville Alcazar is notoriously long (I once had to change my plans as the line was too long!) so it’s good idea to skip the line and buy your ticket in advance . If you’re a history lover like me, then you may also be interested in a guided tour of the monument so that you can learn more about its history. 
• The Seville Cathedral is also a super popular tourist attraction. Click here to buy your entry ticket (includes the Giralda) in advance.
• Want to visit the Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda in one day? Join a local guide in this 2.5-hour tour which includes all entry tickets. 
• It’d be a shame not to watch flamenco while in Seville! Check out this flamenco show in a historic venue or this flamenco show in Tirana . 
• Enjoy a relaxing day out on the river on this 2-hour yacht tour when you can admire Seville from the water. 
• Get acquainted with some of the best spots to eat in Seville in this tapas crawl (yummy!).
• Shop at the market like a local and learn how to make traditional Spanish dishes in this cooking class in Seville .

Here are other popular activities in Seville:

Festivals in Seville 

Seville is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals which celebrate the city’s rich history and culture. These three festivals provide a glimpse into Seville’s rich history and culture, and they are a great way to experience the city’s unique traditions and customs.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Semana Santa is a major religious holiday in all of Spain and it is especially impressive in Seville. The celebrations in Seville are said to date back to the 16th century and today, the traditions live on. 

Locals spend all year preparing for this week-long festival thattakes place in the week leading up to Easter.

Processions of elaborately decorated floats (called pasos ) carrying statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, wind through the streets of Seville, accompanied by the mournful sound of music played by marching bands. Some of the processions last up to 12 hours with devoted locals carrying the pasos !

The main processions take place in the city center, around the Cathedral and other historic churches. You can get more infromation on the Semana Santa routes in Seville on this website .

Tip: For a memorable sight, stand by the river and watch the processions come from Triana over the Puente de Isabel II. 

Feria de Abril

This week-long festival of music, dancing, and traditional dress is one of the most important events on the Sevillian calendar. Feria de Abril typically takes place two weeks after Holy Week, and it celebrates Seville’s cultural heritage. 

The fairground is set up in the district of Los Remedios, with hundreds of colorful tents (called casetas ) set up for eating, drinking, and dancing. The streets are filled with people wearing traditional flamenco dresses and suits, and the atmosphere is festive and joyful. Expect horse-drawn carriages, flamenco music, and tons of fun!

The fair also features a large amusement park, with rides and attractions for all ages. Feria de Abril is an unforgettable way to experience Seville’s vibrant culture and traditions.

Bienal de Flamenco

If you love music and dance, then you can’t miss the Bienal de Flamenco in Seville. 

This biennial festival celebrates flamenco, a traditional Spanish art form that combines singing, dancing, and guitar playing. Today, it is one of the most important flamenco festivals in the world.

During the Bienal de Flamenco, you’ll find performances by some of the most renowned flamenco artists, as well as up-and-coming talents. The shows take place in various venues throughout the city, including historic theaters, flamenco clubs, and outdoor stages.

The festival also offers workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that explore different aspects of flamenco culture so it’s the ideal time to learn about the history and evolution of flamenco, as well as the various styles and techniques used in the art form.

The Bienal de Flamenco is a unique opportunity to experience the passion and intensity of flamenco, and to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Seville. It is a must-see for anyone interested in flamenco or Spanish culture.

The festival will be next held in 2024. For more information, check out the official website .

Tip: Seville goes into overdrive when there’s a festival so if you’re planning a visit during one of these times, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. 

What to Eat in Seville

Ain’t nothing like food to get to know a place! If you’re excited to check out Seville’s culinary delights, you won’t be disappointed! Here, you’ll find some Spanish national favorites but also some local delicacies that are unique to the icty. 

Some of the most popular local dishes and must-try foods in Seville include:

• Tapas: Seville is famous for its tapas, small plates of food that are perfect for sharing. Some popular tapas dishes include tortilla española (Spanish omelet), croquetas (deep-fried balls of bechamel and filling), and montaditos (small sandwiches).
• Gazpacho: This cold soup is made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, bread, olive oil, and garlic. It’s perfect for hot days in Seville and is a refreshing and healthy option.
• Pescaíto frito : This is a fried fish dish that is popular throughout Andalucia. It’s usually made with small fish such as anchovies or sardines, and it’s often served as a tapa.
• Huevos a la Flamenca: This dish consists of baked eggs in a tomato sauce with chorizo, ham, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Solomillo al Whisky: This is a pork tenderloin dish that is cooked with whisky, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a classic Sevillian dish and is often served as a main course.

Sevillanos also love their desserts, and there are many delicious options to choose from, such as tocino de cielo (a rich egg yolk dessert), torrijas (similar to French toast), and yemas de San Leandro (sweet egg yolk candies).

So, as you wander around Seville, don’t forget to spot these items on the menu and give them a try!

More on Seville

Discover the Best Beach Near Seville for Your Next 2024 Andalucia Trip

The Ultimate Guide to Seville in 2 Days

One Day Seville Itinerary: See the Best of Seville in 24 Hours

Gibraltar Day Trip from Seville: All You Need to Know (2024 Guide)

Seville to Granada Day Trip: The Perfect One Day Itinerary

Cadiz to Seville: Ultimate Transport Guide (2024) 

Winter in Seville: Weather, Things to Do, and What to Expect

26 Marvelous Things to Do in Seville, Spain (Don’t Miss Them!)

4 Days in Seville: What to See and Do for an Unforgettable Trip

Best Things to Do in Seville at Night

Best Time to Visit Seville, Spain: A Comprehensive Guide

Seville, Spain Weather: When to Go, Travel Tips & FAQs

The Best 1 Day in Seville Itinerary for your Next Trip (2024)

Planning your next trip to Seville, Spain in only 24 hours? You’re in the right place! Keep reading for the best things to do with 1 day in Seville—from wandering around the picturesque Plaza de España to tasting the best bites in Andalusia, and everything in between.

Last September, during my time living in Portugal, I had the opportunity to spend a quick 1 day in Seville with two of my closest travel friends. We packed our bags, braved the 4-flights of winding stairs in our Lisbon Airbnb, and hopped on a $132 Ryanair flight to Seville-San Pablo International Airport.

Over the next 24 hours, we crammed the best of the best into our short little Seville itinerary! We ate churros for breakfast, took in views of the city from the Seville Cathedral, learned about Andalusian cuisine on a food tour, and lived out our Game of Thrones fantasies at the Real Alcazar. If you only have one day to spend in Seville, I advise you to see the best that this city has to offer—and I’m here to tell you what that is. 

Find what you need:

The Lazy Girl’s Guide to 24 Hours in Seville

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Grab the Seville 1 day highlights below!

• Eat churros dipped in chocolate for breakfast at Bar el Comercio 🍫
• Tour the Royal Alcazar of Seville 🌴
• Take a food tour of Seville 🥪

Afternoon ☀️

• Explore the Seville Cathedral ⛪️
• Grab a mid-day drink at the La Terraza del EME rooftop bar 🍷
• Wander around Plaza de España & Parque de Maria Luisa 🌳
• Eat tapas for dinner at Casa Morales 🐙
• See a flamenco show 💃
• Experience Seville’s nightlife scene on a pub crawl with the Oasis Backpackers’ Palace 🍺

Your Itinerary for 1 Day in Seville

So you’ve arrived in Seville, now what? It’s time to start your all-inclusive 1 day in Seville itinerary (by moi 💁🏽‍♀️) that includes the best activities, sights, views, and eats that Seville has to offer in only 24 hours.

Better start the day with a strong espresso and charge up that external battery pack —you’re going to need all the juice for this awe-inspiring and jam-packed day. Pro tip: Order this portable Amazon fan for your trip—Spain is HOT.

Eat Churros at Bar El Comercio

Hopefully this confession doesn’t have you unsubscribing…but I’m not the biggest fan of churros. I always find them a little dry and, frankly, not worth the calories. 

The churros from Bar el Comercio had me begging for forgiveness.

These churros are fried to crispy perfection and are not coated in sugar, so they themselves are almost more savory than sweet. However, once dipped in piping hot, thick, melted chocolate…well let’s just say your life is about to change. In addition to its famous churros, Bar el Comercio also serves a variety of tasty toasts and Spanish omelets.

Here’s hoping you’re not disturbed by the uncomfortably phallic nature of the photo below—I promise it’s just a churro. Also, don’t judge us for ordering tinto de verano in the morning—we were on vacation 😉.

Alternative: If you’re not interested in churros for breakfast, check out Mercado de Triana for a wide variety of baked goods, sausages, fish, fruit, and other local eats in Seville. (You could even hop on a Triana Market Tapas Tour —which I’ll definitely be doing on my next trip to Spain.)

Tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville

Known in Spanish as the Real Alcázar, this 11th-century palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest palace in Europe that’s still in use today. Although the site drew plenty of visitors already for its rich history and stunning beauty, tourism to the Royal Alcazar only increased after it was used as a Game of Thrones filming location (it was the Kingdom of Dorne, for all you GoT fans). Psst 🤫—if you love GoT filming locations, you’re going to want to visit Dubrovnik .

The palace was constructed back when Andalucia was part of the Moorish Empire—which you can clearly tell by its pointed archways, colorful tiling, and use of Islamic motifs. In the 14th century, the Castalian Christians took control of the palace when they banished the Arab rulers from Spain.

Sadly, I was not feeling my best during our visit to the Real Alcazar, so I didn’t have time to fully appreciate its beauty or its history. If you plan to visit during your 1 day Seville itinerary, then I highly recommend booking a guided tour. This Alcazar tour on Viator offers visitors a chance to reserve their preferred date and time, as well as grants skip-the-line access and a local guide to teach you everything you need to know about this famous Spanish palace. 

If you plan on visiting both the Real Alcazar and the Seville Cathedral, you can bundle and save by booking an all-inclusive tour with priority access to both monuments! (If you book this tour, you’ll need to reorder this 1 day in Seville itinerary as the itinerary is built around DIY-ing these monuments.)

👉🏼 Book your priority access ticket to the Real Alcazar and the Cathedral here!

Take a Seville Food Tour

Taking a local food tour is one of my favorite things to do in any new destination! I just took one on my trip to Cartagena, Colombia , and we discovered so many hidden gems we would have never known about otherwise—it was a 10/10 travel experience. 

We LOVED this Seville food tour and, even though it does take up a significant chunk of time, it’s a must-do for anyone who has a day in Seville to kill. We met our guide, María, at The Metropol Parasol and from there went on to visit four different restaurants in the city center. We tried tons of local specialties like caña de lomo (cured pork sausage), tinto de verano con naranja/limón (red wine and orange/lemon soda), montadito de pringá (mixed meat sandwiches), and arroz meloso con setas (sticky rice, kind of risotto, with mushrooms).

It was way more fun and educational than just picking a restaurant for lunch and, trust me, you will not leave this tour hungry. 

👉🏼 Book your food tour with Spain Food Sherpas here!

Explore the Seville Cathedral

You can’t leave Seville without visiting one of the city’s most famous and beautiful monuments, La Catedral de Santa María or La Catedral de Sevilla. It costs €12 on the official website to visit the cathedral and the Giralda Tower, or Bell Tower, (where you can find a birds-eye view of the entire city), otherwise, you can purchase a guided tour that includes priority access and a guide to both the cathedral and the Real Alcazar. 

The Seville Cathedral is actually the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest cathedral (after the Vatican in Rome and St. Paul in London). It was constructed in the 16th century after the Moors left southern Spain on the same site as the Great Mosque. Visitors to the cathedral can also visit the tomb of Christopher Columbus, whose remains may have traveled to more countries than I have before settling in Seville (he died in Valladolid, his remains were moved to Seville, then to the Dominican Republic, then Cuba, then finally back to Seville).

Opening hours are Monday–Saturday from 10:45 AM–6:00 PM and Sundays from 2:30 PM–6:00 PM. You can reserve your time slot online. 

Stop for a Drink at La Terraza del EME

It’s no secret that I love a rooftop bar! Due to its massive size, it’s a bit difficult to see the entire Seville Cathedral from the ground. Instead, head to La Terraza del EME in the luxurious Eme Cathedral Hotel after your visit for a chilled glass of wine and a fantastic view of the entire cathedral. 

Wander around Plaza de España & Parque de Maria Luisa

Hopefully, you’re not falling asleep yet! This 1 day itinerary for Seville is a doozy, especially if you’re coming into it jet lagged. Next on the list is Plaza de España and, honestly, this was the stop I was most excited about when we decided we were going to Seville.

Located in Parque de Maria Luisa, Plaza de España was built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exhibition and has since been a filming site for famous movies like  Lawrence of Arabia  (1962) and  Star Wars: Attack of the Clones  (2002). It’s a beautiful spot to wander around, admire the architecture, and snap a few pics for Instagram. 

Since the plaza is located a bit outside the city center, we grabbed an Uber from Barrio de Santa Cruz in order to maximize our time. However, you could also stroll along the Rio Guadalquivir and check out the Torre del Oro, a dodecagonal military watchtower, on the way. 

Have Tapas for Dinner at Casa Morales

When it came to restaurants in Seville, Casa Morales was at the very top of my list. This traditional tapas bar was founded all the way back in 1850 and over the years it has lost none of its original charisma. 

It’s clearly one of the most popular bars for locals in the area since when I arrived around 10:00 PM there was no seating available and almost all of the standing tables in and around the restaurant were already claimed. However, when I decide I want to try a restaurant, I’m not easily deterred. I ordered a glass of white wine at the bar and people-watched for a bit until a nice solo traveler at a different table invited me to join him. 

I ordered a plate of grilled octopus and potatoes and everything was delicious! I highly recommend fitting in a visit to Casa Morales on your itinerary for 1 day in Seville.

See a Flamenco Show

Have you ever seen a traditional flamenco show? If not, there’s definitely no better time to see one than during your day trip in Seville—the birthplace of flamenco. This traditional Spanish dance is said to have originated in the 15th century with the arrival of gypsies to Jerez and Seville. 

Today, you can find flamenco shows all over the city! One of the most famous shows is held at Casa de la Memoria—a venue dating back to the 15th century. For only $25 for a ticket , this flamenco show is a can’t-miss on your Seville one day itinerary.

👉🏼 Book your tickets to a flamenco show at Casa de la Memoria!

Head out on a Seville Pub Crawl

There’s no better way to experience the nightlife in a new city than booking a pub crawl with a local guide! This is exactly what we did in Seville…since there was no way we were leaving town without a little bit of bar hopping. 

Our hostel, the  Oasis Backpackers’ Palace Sevilla , offers a great pub crawl—and you don’t even need to be staying there to join the fun! The pub crawl takes you to three bars and one club with skip-the-line access. €19 includes a mojito and three shots and the pub crawl starts from the hostel at 10:00 PM nightly ( bookable on the hostel’s official website ).

If You Have 2-3 Days in Seville…

I’ll be frank—one day is not enough to see the best of Seville. You can do it, and it’s better than nothing, but 2-3 days is much more ideal to experience the best that this vibrant city in southern Spain has to offer. 

If you have some more time on your hands, then I highly recommend adding the following sights to your Seville itinerary: 

• Las Setas (The Metropol Parasol) : Built over La Encarnación Square in the old quarter, Las Setas (translating to “The Mushrooms) is actually the largest wooden structure in the world. It’s difficult to tell, but the structure is actually made up of five levels that include a panoramic lookout plaza, a tapas restaurant, and an event space. 
• Get lost in the colorful Santa Cruz district
• Torre del Oro : This 36-meter-high tower was built in the 12th century by the Almohads to control shipping on the Rio Guadalquivir. Today, visitors can access the tower and the top-floor naval museum for a €3 entrance fee.
• Casa de Pilatos : If you loved the Real Alcázar, you might enjoy a visit to the 16th-century palace that serves as a residence for the Dukes of Medinaceli (entrance fee = €10).
• Take a day trip to Gibraltar
• Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería : This is the largest bullfighting arena in all of Spain!
• Archivo General de Indias : If you’re into history, don’t miss a visit to the Archivo General de Indias. Housed in a UNESCO World Heritage building, this museum showcases historic documents from the discovery of the Americas and Spanish expeditions all over the world. 
• Triana Market Tapas Tour : I mentioned Triana Market earlier in the post, but if you haven’t already gotten to it then I highly recommend booking a guided tour here to learn more about Andalusia’s culinary history (and taste some yummy bites). Its vibes are reminiscent of the Central Market Hall (one of the best things to do in Budapest ).

Where to Stay in Seville:

📍 budget-friendly: oasis backpackers’ palace sevilla.

We had already blown most of our money traveling through Lisbon , so when we decided to visit Seville in 1 day, it was time to save a little $$ and book a hostel. 

The Oasis Backpackers’ Palace is undoubtedly one of the nicest hostels in town. The hostel has elevators (trust me—living in Europe will make you never take elevators for granted again), air conditioning, security lockers, and a rooftop pool and bar with fantastic views of the city below. 

You can book plenty of activities through the hostel and I absolutely recommend booking their pub crawl, it’s a night you won’t soon forget! 

*Not to be confused with the Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel . We didn’t realize there were two and booked our Uber to the wrong location.

👉🏼 Book your stay at the Oasis Backpackers’ Palace here!

📍 Mid-Level: Hotel Doña María

Hotel Dońa María is a widely-loved mid-level hotel located in the city center in an old palace. The rooftop terrace and bar (plus a seasonal swimming pool) overlooks the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda, so you’re guaranteed to have stunning views. 

Guests here will enjoy air conditioning, room service, tasty breakfast, a 24-hour front desk, and facilities for disabled guests. 

👉🏼 Book your stay at Hotel Doña María here!

📍 Luxury: Hotel Alfonso XIII

A Marriott Luxury Hotel and the historic grand hotel in Seville, Hotel Alfonso XIII is a travel splurge that’s 100% worth it. 

Staying here, you’ll literally feel like a fairytale princess in her palace. The location boasts an outdoor pool, fitness center, two on-site restaurants and a bar, an airport shuttle, and facilities for disabled guests. The rooms themselves are impeccably decorated and include strong air conditioning, a mini bar, a bathrobe, and slippers. 

👉🏼 Book your luxury stay at the Hotel Alfonso XIII here!

Get Data on Your Trip to Spain

Nobody likes struggling through a new destination data-less— especially if you’re a solo female traveler (that’s downright dangerous!) Thankfully, there’s an app for that. Every time I visit a new country, I look to Airalo for an affordable and easy-to-install foreign eSIM. Simply download the app, choose your package, pay, and follow the directions to install it directly to your phone. Use code MADI10 for 10% off your purchase!

Choose between the following packages for Spain:

• Guay Mobile 1GB for 7 days
• Guay Mobile 2GB for 15 days
• Guay Mobile 3GB for 30 days
• Guay Mobile 5GB for 30 days
• Guay Mobile 10GB for 30 days
• Guay Mobile 20GB for 30 days

Protect Your Trip to Seville

Whenever I plan a trip, I always make sure to protect myself and my wallet with travel insurance. I’ve always booked travel insurance before trips, but I had to learn the hard way that not all travel insurance programs are created equal. During the two months I lived in Thailand in 2022, I injured my foot on a weekend trip to Khao Sok National Park, which led to four months of limping around Southeast Asia and an eventual surgery in Canggu. Since I was buying travel insurance month-to-month through AXA, none of my surgery was covered and I was out $3,500—even though I had active travel insurance at the time.

Since then, I started traveling with SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance . It’s perfect for both short-term travelers and digital nomads since you can tailor it exactly to your dates and needs. You can use it as a monthly subscription (what I usually do), or pay in full for a set date range. You can also take advantage of their useful add-ons like U.S. coverage (not for U.S. citizens, unfortunately), adventure sports, and electronics theft.

One Day in Seville FAQ:

Is seville worth visiting for one day.

Yes, Seville is definitely worth visiting, even if you only have one day! The city has such a rich history and vibrant culture that you can get a great taste of it in a short time. If you’re wondering what to see in Seville in 1 day, you could explore landmarks like the historic Cathedral, visit the gorgeous Royal Alcázar Palace, wander around Santa Cruz on a tapas food tour , or visit the stunning Plaza de España. While a day isn’t enough to see everything, it’s certainly enough to fall in love with Seville’s charm.

Is Seville a walkable city?

Yes, Seville is definitely a walkable city. Most of the main attractions, like the Cathedral, Alcázar, and Plaza de España, are all pretty close to each other, and the city’s old town is filled with narrow, charming streets that are perfect for exploring on foot. Plus, the flat landscape makes walking even easier. It’s the kind of city that really invites you to just stroll and enjoy! (Plus, the shopping is AWESOME and you’ll miss a lot of it if you only take Ubers.)

Was Game of Thrones filmed in Seville?

Yes, parts of Game of Thrones were filmed in Seville! One of the most famous locations is the stunning Royal Alcázar, which was used as the set for the Water Gardens of Dorne, the palace of House Martell. Some nearby areas, like the Roman ruins of Itálica just outside the city, were also used in the show for other scenes. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, visiting these spots feels like stepping right into Westeros!

When is the best time of year to visit Seville?

The best time to visit Seville is definitely from September to May. I’d avoid summer because it gets incredibly hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F, which can make it tough to enjoy the city. September was perfect when I went—it was warm but not overwhelming. The fall and spring months are especially lovely, with pleasant weather that’s ideal for walking around and sightseeing. Even the winters here are mild, with temperatures ranging between 45-65°F, so it’s still a great time to visit without dealing with extreme cold or heat (and it’ll be way easier on your wallet than the summer months).

If you want to visit during Semana Santa—Spain’s Holy Week—I say go for it, but know what to expect. It’s going to be extremely crowded and very expensive, but it also might be the experience of a lifetime. 

What is Seville known for?

Seville is known for its incredible history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. The city is famous for landmarks like the Seville Cathedral, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the beautiful Alcázar palace with its intricate Moorish design. It’s also known as the birthplace of flamenco, so you’ll find plenty of live performances and passionate dancing. Andalusia’s colorful festivals, like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Abril, are also a huge part of its identity. And of course, it’s the perfect place to indulge in delicious tapas while soaking in the lively Andalusian atmosphere!

What is the best way to get around Seville?

The best way to get around the city is definitely by walking, especially in the old town where all the major sights are close together. The city is super walkable, and strolling through the narrow streets lets you really soak in the atmosphere. That being said, we took Ubers when we needed to get to places that were a bit further away, and it was quick and convenient. So, if you’re heading to a destination that’s not within walking distance, grabbing an Uber is a great option. But overall, walking was our preferred way to explore!

Final Thoughts

Contrary to what you might think looking at my blog, I’ve actually spent quite a lot of time in Spain. I’ve nailed down the best things to see in Barcelona on two separate visits, visited Ibiza twice as well, and have been to both Mallorca and Madrid once each. I’m thrilled to have finally crossed Sevilla off my Spain bucket list! 

Although I wish I had more time to really get to know the city, I was astonished by how much we accomplished with just 1 day in Seville. We saw and ate the highlights, and I have zero regrets. If you too only have one day to explore this gorgeous Andalusian city, follow my itinerary to see the best possible in the shortest amount of time. I promise—you won’t be disappointed!

If you enjoyed this guide to what to do in Seville Spain in one day, then you may enjoy my related posts linked below. As always, be sure to follow along for the adventure on Instagram @madisonsfootsteps .

How to Spend 3 Days in Barcelona

The Best Itinerary for 5-Days in Lisbon

Your Travel Guide for Lagos, Portugal

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Madison Krigbaum is the founder and sole contributor of Madison's Footsteps – a solo female travel blog started in 2017 with a focus on destinations in Honduras, Italy, and Thailand. Since her study abroad semester in Rome, Madison has traveled to 32 countries, many of which she visited as a solo traveler. She lived in Roatan, Honduras for one year, Southeast Asia for 8 months, and spent over two years in Italy (in Florence and Rome). She just returned from three weeks in Cartagena, Colombia, and is considering Puerto Rico as her next destination!

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The Ultimate Guide To Seville

Seville is a charming city in the heart of Andalusia with incredible architecture, a rich history and a great food scene. From tasty tapas to opulent palaces and authentic flamenco shows, there’s a host of wonderful things to do in Seville.

In this post, I’ll share the hidden gems and only the very best things to do for your next Seville trip including where to eat, drink and stay. I’ve travelled to this region of Spain several times and with the addition of a few up-market restaurants and hotels, not much has changed in 2024!

Find the hidden gems and epic roof terraces in my Ultimate Guide To Seville!

Why visit Seville?

Oh, Seville, with its jasmine-scented air, orange trees and wonderful buildings, it leaves you feeling as though you could uproot and stay a while. Everyone seems to be enjoying life here, whether that’s sitting in a sun-filled cobbled stoned square, tasting tapas , watching a flamenco show or sipping rooftop cocktails with stunning views, it’s all very appealing!

Seville also makes a great base for exploring the Andalusian region including the iconic white-washed villages and stunning scenery – adding a day trip to your itinerary would be the cherry on top!

In this Seville guide:

What to do in Seville, plus tips!

• Best Seville highlights
• More attractions to see in Seville
• Best day trip from Seville
• Where to eat in Seville
• Where to stay in Seville
• Seville travel tips

THINGS TO SEE & DO IN SEVILLE

Seville cathedral.

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and you’ll find it in the charming old town surrounded by orange trees, its grandness is very hard to miss – you will catch glimpses of it quite often when roaming around Seville.

Inside is just as spectacular, for one, it’s enormous with tall arched beams and many intricate details, the whole area just feels very ancient and historic, it’s worth going inside just to see the ceiling!

Don’t miss…

You can also pay a visit to Christopher Columbus’s final resting place and for art lovers there are iconic paintings by Murillo inside the Chapter House, both things are special and unique to Seville.

GIRALDA TOWER

Giralda Bell Tower rises sky high above the cathedral and is even more ancient, there used to be a mosque which was destroyed in the middle ages leaving the tower standing – the cathedral was eventually built around it.

You can climb to the top for amazing views over Seville, there’s a (fairly easy-going) narrow ramp with lots of twists and it is well worth doing for a bird’s eye view of the landmarks. You can also buy queue jump tickets (recommended), which include cathedral entry and bell tower admission.

Skip the line tickets:

• Cathedral & Giralda Tower Ticket
• Real Alcazar Palace Ticket

REAL ALCAZAR PALACE

Just a stones throw from the Cathedral is the Real Alcazar Palace. It’s possibly the most loved landmark in Seville and wandering around the grounds for an hour or two is one of the best things to do in Seville – despite the crowds it draws.

The Alcazar, a World Heritage Site, is a 10th-century masterpiece, adorned with intricate gold ceilings, postcard courtyards, colourful tiles, tall palms, fountains and exotic gardens – there are even peacocks roaming the patio, it’s all so beautiful!

Tip! The Real Alcazar is something you absolutely cannot miss in Seville, I highly recommend buying skip-the-line tickets online in advance as the queues can be pretty huge!

HISTORICAL GUIDED TOUR

One of the best ways to explore the iconic attractions of Seville is to take a Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and Alcazar skip-the-line guided tour , especially during the high season (and don’t worry the groups are small). You’ll get a private entrance (avoiding long queues) and a local guide to show you the highlights in half the time, it’s definitely the way to go if you’re only visiting for a couple of days!

Book: Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar Tour

SEVILLE FLAMENCO

A proper flamenco show is a must when visiting Seville, it originated here after all! One of the best shows I’ve ever seen took place at Casa de la Memoria – a very special little theatre dating back to the 15th century, their performances are polished and professional!

A good alternative is Los Gallos Tablao in the central historical district of Barrio Santa Cruz, watch the talented musicians and dancers in an intimate venue and wonderful location. If you’re visiting in summer, the later shows are best – but arrive early as seats are first come first serve and you can only really buy drinks before the show starts.

Note: A flamenco show is 1.5 – 2hrs and performed in cosy traditional theatres, it’s a totally different experience from the street acts you might come across.

Small group walking tour? Start your trip to Seville with this popular 2-hour small group highlights of Seville walking tour , see important landmarks and take advantage of your local guide’s insider tips along the way! See here for details .

BARRIO SANTA CRUZ

Barrio Santa Cruz, also known as the medieval Jewish Quarter is the real heart of Seville and the most desirable area to walk around. A typical Spanish old town with a maze of winding cobbled streets and picturesque squares to get lost in.

The best thing to do is wander, find local tapas bars and enjoy a nice café latte in one of the pretty orange-filled courtyards, framed by white and yellow houses. Check out Plaza Alfaro and Plaza Dona Elvira , they are two of the best.

Things to see in Barrio Santa Cruz:

• Rosina’s Balcony
• Jardins de Murillo
• Callejón del Agua

TAPAS FOOD CRAWL

Seville is famous for it’s delicious tapas with new restaurants springing up all the time as well as hole-in-the-wall places and traditional local haunts to take your pick from – and with such a variety, it’s hard to know where to begin!

If you want to order more than a ham croquette staple and have a bit of fun doing so, then why not kick start your culinary adventures with a local guide on a tapas-hopping? You can book the best and highly rated Seville Tapas Crawl here it really is an excellent experience!

LA TERRAZA ROOFTOP BAR

Enjoy a glass of something at one of Seville’s best rooftop bars with a stunning view, it’s the best thing to do in Seville at sunset an watch the golden glow over the historical skyline – it’s truly memorable. Stylish La Terraza at the top of EME Hotel has the perfect outlook over the Cathedral, a long bar with tall stools and a fab cocktail menu (pricier than everywhere else, but worth it in my opinion).

Love rooftop terraces? You can also check out my full guide to the 7 best rooftop bars in Seville for amazing views – try 2 or 3 on your trip.

MORE ATTRACTIONS IN SEVILLE

Casa de pilatos.

Casa de Pilatos is a beautiful palace in the Santa Cruz area of Seville, not as opulent or busy as the Real Alcazar but still beautiful and relaxing to walk around and worth visiting.

The Casa de Pilatos palace is one of many attractions in Seville that blend Renaissance styles with Spanish Mudejar. In the courtyard, you’ll find a fountain, sculptures and a Gothic chapel, while the upper floor houses a huge collection of Spanish tiles.

PLACIO DE LAS DUENAS

If you have time to squeeze in one more palace, visit Placio de las Duenas, a gorgeous 15th-century palace with a beautiful patio similiar to the one in Casa de Pilatos.

It makes for a nice tranquil escape – lose yourself in a maze of courtyards and beautifully landscape gardens. Spring is a lovely time to visit when everything is lush and green.

MARIA LUISA PARK

Maria Luisa Park is a lush green botanical park filled with exotic plants, palms and orange trees and there’s a wonderful fountain in the centre. It’s all totally free to stroll or bike around and take a break from the midday heat and city bustle. You can easily visit before or after the Plaza de Espana as they are right next to each other.

PLAZA DE ESPANA

Plaza de Espana is another enormous landmark you cannot miss when visiting Seville, it’s one of Spain’s most lavish squares to feast your eyes on. Adorned with tiled alcoves and striking coral bricks created around a semi-circular design – the Plaza is a complete work of art!

Along the perimeter of the Plaza, you will find an emerald-green canal with fountains and bridges, there’s even paddle boats for hire if you wish to float your way around for a bit of romance.

HISTORICAL HOTELS

Stay in a former palace or a historical manor house, there are many beautiful boutique hotels in Seville with amazing original features and luxurious rooms. Some of the best include stunning courtyards, outdoor patios, rooftop pools and terraces, traditional Andalusian tiles and arches – all the Old World character you could wish for!

Hotel Alfonso XIII , and Palacio Villapanes are two of the best hotels and former palaces in Seville. If you’re not staying there, you can easily visit and check out the restaurants, roof terraces and lobby’s.

THE REAL MAESTRANZA

Seville’s bullring is a historic landmark dating back to 1762, it’s the oldest (and largest) in Spain and just a short walk from Plaza de Espana. Bullfighting has a long-standing tradition in Spain and these days you can walk around and peak inside as a visitor without seeing any flights.

The Real Maestranza in Seville is pretty impressive, it is housed within a beautiful baroque building and the red and yellow colours are quite striking. If you’re looking to learn more about the culture of Spain hop on a short guided tour – it’s run frequently throughout the day.

TRIANA NEIGHBOURHOOD

Exploring the local neighbourhood of Triana is one of the best things to do in Seville if you have an hour or two to spare. Situated across the Guadalquivir, Triana is full of colour and cobbled streets and it’s where you’ll find some of the best local arts, crafts and ceramic stalls.

Make the most of your time in Triana by visiting the Triana Market for tapas or on the bridge at upscale restaurant Maria Trifulca for delicious food and amazing views. Note, this is a very popular spot and you must book in advance!

METROPOL PARASOL

Metropol Parasol, known locally as Setas de Seville, is the largest wooden art installation in the world. It’s ultra-modern and resembles the shape of a mushroom curving over La Encarnación square in an eye-catching somewhat unusual way. Still, the real draw is the panoramic view you get from walking across the top of the structure.

Go during sunset for an unbeatable view of Seville or book a stay at the fantastic boutique hotel Intelier Casa de Indias for a unique perspective.

BEST DAY TRIP FROM SEVILLE

Seville is well placed to visit some spectacular gems in Andalusia and there’s a host of wonderful day tours from Seville that offer amazing experiences. Discover historic towns such as Cordoba or the famous Pueblo Blancos (white villages) with wonderful rolling green hill landscapes.

WHITE VILLAGES & RONDA

Set among some of the best scenery in Spain, the white villages and Ronda day trip is the best thing to do from Seville if you have a day to explore more of Andalusia. Ronda especially is absolutely stunning to walk around – see the below image for a taste – you must book this in advance as seats fill up fast . Read more in my guide 7 Wonderful Day Tours From Seville .

Book: White Villages & Ronda Tour

WHERE TO EAT IN SEVILLE

The food in this region is as delicious as it is interesting – especially the tapas and it’s worth knowing where to eat in advance to avoid the usual mediocre tourist fare. Here’s a selection of the best restaurants and tapas bars in Seville.

El Pinton is a beautiful restaurant, dine on the attractive terrace after a visit to the Cathedral – just around the corner. It’s not all about looks though, the food is also presented well and delicious – I visited twice!

El Rinconcillo

El Rinconcillo is well known in Seville, dating back to 1670 it’s also the oldest tapas place and for that alone deserves a visit – if you can get in! It’s busy as a tourist hotspot these days, but you don’t have to wait for a table, you can stand at the bar with a drink and tapas.

La Brunilda

La Brunilda is for classic tapas with a modern twist – and it’s one of my favourite tapas bars in all of Seville. You will find it located behind a big blue door and inside there’s plenty of atmosphere, charm, larger than normal portions and fair pricing.

Torres Y Garcia

Torres Y Garcia is another of my favourite finds, a hip restaurant serving delicious food and ambience. Make sure you arrive early, this restaurant is one of the busiest in town – grab a local wine at the bar while you wait for a table.

WHERE TO STAY IN SEVILLE

Seville is a very walkable city and to be in the best possible location I recommend staying nearby the beautiful old town just moments from all the sights and sounds. Barrio Santa Cruz , Triana and El Arenal are all excellent neighbourhoods in Seville offering attractions on the doorstep and fantastic hotels.

BEST HOTELS IN SEVILLE

When it comes to picking the perfect accommodation, you won’t be at a loss, there are some beautiful small boutique hotels , many of which are in former palaces or mansions – some even have rooftop pools. Here are my top choices for where to stay in Seville.

Luxury Hotels

• Querencia de Sevilla check prices
• Hotel Mercer Sevilla check prices
• Nobu Sevilla check prices

Boutique Hotels

• Casa del Rey Sabio check prices
• Placido y Grata check prices
• Hotel Amadeus check price

SEVILLE TIPS

Now you know what things to see and do in Seville, here’s some important planning information.

Seville is the most popular destination in the Andalusia region, so booking your favourite boutique hotel in advance is essential. Boutique hotels typically have fewer rooms and fill up fast, especially the coveted boutique hotel in Seville with a swimming pool and rooms with terraces and balconies.

ADVANCE TICKETS

Book your tickets online and in advance where possible to avoid waiting in long lines, particularly at the Real Alcázar, where the queues can be enormous! Reserve at least a week prior for Seville’s top experiences and two weeks for day trips. Here’s the top experiences I recommend:

To book in advance:

• Alcázar, Cathedral & Giralda – top guided tour
• Casa de la Memorial – best flamenco show
• White Villages & Ronda – best day trip from Seville

HOW TO GET TO SEVILLE

Seville is a very accessible destination with good flight, train and bus connections – the beauty of travelling Western Europe. If you’re visiting from outside of Europe, you will likely have to stop in Madrid or another large airport before arriving to Seville.

Seville’s airport is Sevilla International Airport (SVQ) just North East of the City Centre. A taxi ride from the Airport to Seville Centre is €30 and takes 20 minutes and there’s also a 30-minute airport bus that runs frequently for €4.

If you’re travelling around Southern Spain you can rent a car at the airport, hiring a car will be a more convenient and flexible way to do it. Discover Cars , are great they provide a comparison of car rental prices from various vendors across Seville ensuring you find reasonable rates without the hassle!

Seville’s train station is called Santa Justa it’s the third busiest train station in Spain and is well connected to the rest of the country – the high-speed train from Madrid is 2.5hrs. Reserve tickets in advance and check times before departure.

Seville has two centrally located bus stations, Plaza de Armas and Prado de San Sebastian. If you’re in Malaga or Madrid it’s straight forward and comfortable, plus there’s amazing countryside views.

GETTING AROUND SEVILLE

Walk: Seville is a very walkable city, you can easily walk to all the major sights listed in this guide including the best neighbourhoods of Seville, Santa Cruz, Triana and El Arenal.

Bike: To see more in a shorter time you can do a Seville Bike Tour and see the highlights in a unique way.

Horse-Carriage: Take a short trip to see the sights around Santa Maria Park via the Guadalquivir River and Plaza de Espana.

SEVILLE FAQ

When to visit seville.

Seville has good weather all year around with mild winters and hot summers, where temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees! Early summer, from April to June is the best time to visit Seville when the gardens are lush and green and the evenings are light, there are also fewer crowds to enjoy it! September and October are also nice months to visit with excellent weather, but be aware of festivals.

Good to know

Festivals can really take over the city, the prices rocket and the crowds and noise is also magnified – I accidently went to one in Ronda nearby in September. In Seville the two biggest to be aware of take place in March and April – you’ll want to avoid those.

Is Seville warm in January?

Seville city sees one of the mildest Januarys in Europe (16-18 Celsius) – it’s an attractive destination to visit all year round. Plus activities and accommodation can be enjoyed with appealingly low rates from January to March.

How many days in Seville?

A long weekend in Seville is perfect if you only plan on visiting the highlights, if you have 2 full days this is possible, but I recommend at least 3 nights to do it justice. In 4 nights you can absorb the vibrant culture better, wander around more and include a wonderful day trip.

Is Seville expensive?

Seville is one of the more affordable cities in Europe, especially when compared to Paris or London. It’s possible to find quality budget-friendly options for accommodation, dining and activities – a local glass of wine in a atmospheric square is as little as €3.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Seville is a stunning place to visit in Spain, with warm weather and plenty of amazing things to do, I love it so much that I have visited several times. It’s a wonderful European city break or a great addition to a longer Andalusian road trip.

Liked this post? Please leave a comment in the box below – or you can BUY ME A COFFEE!

Plan your Seville trip!

Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, tours and more:

• Booking.com : For the best accommodation rates
• Trip Advisor : Check out the latest reviews & trips
• Get Your Guide : For incredible day trips
• Discover Cars : Best car hire price comparison
• Rail Europe: Best routes & prices across networks
• Best Boutique Hotels In Seville
• 7 Best Rooftop Bars In Seville For Views
• 7 Wonderful Day Tours From Seville
• 7 Best Tapas Bars In Seville
• 5 Essential Things To Do In Granada
• Travel Tips For Ronda Spain

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The Perfect 2 or 3 Days in Seville Itinerary

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Seville itinerary is one of the top things to do when you’re mapping out a trip to Southern Spain . Known for its complex history, beautiful architecture, and perennial sunshine, the Andalucían capital is one of Spain’s premier destinations for tourists and you absolutely can’t go wrong with spending to 2 to 3 days in Seville.

There is a lot that Seville has going for it including some amazing historical sites, a vibrant food and bar scene, and a rich flamenco history that can keep you occupied for weeks.

Seville has a lot to offer visitors no matter what it is they happen to be looking for. It is also one of the best destinations in the country to experience the unique Andalucían culture, with its seemingly endless tapas bars and gorgeous squares in which to while away your time.

However, if you’re interest ed in figuring out what to do in Seville in 3 days, follow these suggestions to start planning your trip!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Seville?

Seville is the fourth-largest city by population in Spain and has enough attractions and points of interest to keep visitors occupied for multiple weeks. Unfortunately though, most people don’t have weeks on end to devote to this Andalucían city and want to know how many days to spend in Seville.

If you are keen to explore Seville as part of a longer itinerary through Spain, the city is an excellent base in Andalucía as it has many frequent transport links to other destinations throughout the region and the country in general. Therefore, it can be worth it to spend five or more days in the city, especially if you’re interested in going on a few day trips to neighbouring cities and towns.

However, if you’re pressed for time or want to visit the city as a quick city break or weekend away, then spending 2 days in Seville is the ideal amount of time to be able to see all of the sites.

If you are able to, though, we would recommend trying to spend at least 3 days so you aren’t rushed in your sightseeing and you can even go on a day trip to a nearby town or city like Córdoba or Cádiz .

However many days you spend in Seville you are sure to find a wonderful and welcoming city that will draw you back time and again.

Getting To & Around Seville

As one of Spain’s largest cities and the capital of Andalucía, Seville is quite well connected across Spain and to the rest of Europe.

If you’re travelling within Spain, you’ll find that Seville is connected by direct, high-speed train from just about every major city – including Madrid , Valencia , Málaga , Granada and Barcelona . If you want to save a bit of cash, you can also catch a bus from a range of destinations. You can view schedules here.

Seville is also home to its own international airport that connects the city to a number of different destinations across the continent and further afield. The Seville airport is situated about 10 kilometres from the city centre and its easy to reach.

Once in Seville, you’ll find that it’s quite easy to get around. The city centre is incredibly walkable and you can easily get around on foot. However, if you want to get a bit further afield or don’t feel like walking too much, there is also a great public transport system that consists of both a metro and a bus network.

2 to 3-Day Seville Itinerary

If you’re only planning on visiting for a short city break, then this is the ideal itinerary to follow. If you only have 48 hours in Seville, then the first two days of this itinerary will take you by some of the best sites and things to do in Seville. If you are planning a 3-day itinerary, the third day of this route will help you explore more of Andalucía using its biggest city as your base.

Day 1 – City Centre Sites

Day one will help you get the lay of the land and will see you checking out some of the most iconic sites in the Old City. Make sure you pack some good walking shoes , as you’re going to be on your feel a lot during your time in this Andalucían city.

Free Walking Tour

One of the absolute best ways to get to know any city in the world is to take a free walking tour, and Seville is no different. Going on a free walking tour is a great and affordable way to see the main monuments in Seville at an efficient pace and entertaining manner.

There are numerous free walking tours to choose from in Seville but we would personally recommend Pancho Tours . They meet every day at 10:30 AM at the fountain in the Plaza Virgen de los Reyes, right in front of the Cathedral of Seville.

The tour will take you by all of the main sites in Seville including the Cathedral, Alcázar, Torre del Oro, and Plaza de España among many others.

Along with taking you by some of these amazing sites, you also get the opportunity to have a local Sevillano show you their home city. This way you can get some personal restaurant and activity recommendations that you wouldn’t otherwise get if you’re just going off the pages of a guidebook.

Though the tour is completely free of charge, the guides make their living only by collecting tips so it is good practice to pay what you think the tour is worth at the end of the tour.

Seville Cathedral

After your walking tour, it’s time to actually visit some of the amazing sites you just strolled by in the morning. And one of the most iconic sites in Seville is its giant and magnificent cathedral.

As one of the most notable structures in the Spanish city, the Catedral de Sevilla is in the top five largest cathedrals in the world (the criteria can differ depending on who is measuring!) and was, at the time of completion in 1528, the largest cathedral in the world.

The building itself has a fascinating history, like many religious buildings in the area of the world. The original structure of the Seville cathedral was first a mosque that was built during the Moorish occupation of Spain in the 12th century. After the Reconquista, however, the mosque was turned into a church and it has been this way ever since.

There are still some remnants of the cathedral’s Muslim roots, however, — most notably in La Giralda, or bell tower. This iconic structure of the Cathedral de Sevilla was once a minaret on the original mosque before height and bells were added to it.

The Seville Cathedral is also famous for having the remains of Christopher Columbus, although it is heavily debated if it is actually him.

It is worth noting that entry queues can be extremely long, so if you want to avoid waiting in line, you have a few options.

First, you can purchase your tickets in advance online and this will allow you to skip the line. Second, if you forgot to buy online and the queue is getting to precarious lengths, you can purchase tickets at the nearby Iglesia del Salvador.

Lines at the church are never as long as they are at the cathedral and entry to both churches is included in the fee. Finally, there is also the option to take a guided tour of the Cathedral if you want to learn more about the history.

Barrio Santa Cruz

After visiting the impressive Catedral de Sevilla, it is time to take a wander away from the area of the main monuments and through the narrow, romantic streets of Barrio Santa Cruz.

This area, located very close to all of the main attractions in Seville, is the city’s historic Jewish quarter. Today, however, it is much more well-known for its cluster of small lanes, tall, white-washed buildings, and small squares. These factors make it an ideal place to get lost and wander around for an hour or two.

If all that walking has caused you to work up an appetite, you can also get a snack in quite a unique way from the Convento de San Leandro.

There is a great tradition of nuns baking cookies in convents across Spain, but what makes the San Leandro convent unique is that the nuns are cloistered, so you can purchase some delicious cookies without ever seeing another person. It’s definitely a more off-the-beaten-path experience!

If you want to learn more about the history of the Jewish Quarter, it is possible to take a guided walking tour through the neighbourhood . This can help you gain more insight into Seville’s culture and history.

Metropol Parasol

After wandering through Barrio Santa Cruz, the last stop on day one should be at the Metropol Parasol , commonly referred to as Las Setas (the mushrooms) by Sevillanos.

Said to be the world’s largest wooden structure, this futuristic monument was completed in 2011 and is located in the Plaza de la Encarnación. The Parasol is situated atop some fascinating Roman Ruins and a wonderful market where you can purchase some delicious and fresh Spanish produce.

You also can pay a fee to go to the viewing platform at the top of Las Setas, which gives you excellent panoramic views of the city and is a fantastic place to watch the sunset and end your first day.

Day 2 – Triana & Historic Sites

Day two of this trip to Seville sees you exploring more of the highlights of this glorious city and maybe taking the time to get into the cuisine and culture as well.

Mercado de Triana

Your first stop on day two will take you across the Guadalquivir River to the vibrant, traditionally Roma neighbourhood of Triana. While there is a lot of Triana that is worth exploring (it has arguably the best tapas bars in Seville!), one of the highlights of this neighbourhood is its wonderful market.

One of the strongholds of Spanish cities are its large marketplaces where you can buy everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, cured meats and cheeses, delicious local olives and pickles, and freshly caught seafood all from small, local vendors. And the wonderful Mercado de Triana is no different.

While most markets in Spanish towns will include at least one little bar where you can grab a coffee, beer, or glass of wine after you’ve done your shop, the Mercado de Triana actually has a number of great restaurants and cafes where you can stop for a bite to eat. There is also a flamenco theatre (tablao) in the building and an excellent cooking school!

Another cool thing about the Mercado de Triana is the fact that it’s built atop the Castillo de San Jorge, a medieval fortress that was once used as the headquarters for the Spanish Inquisition in Seville. There is a small museum that is worth visiting if you’re interested in learning more and seeing the ruins of the fortress. It is also free of charge to enter.

If you want to get the most out of the market and make sure all of the stalls are open, it is worth making this your first stop of your day. The market stalls tend to start closing up around 2 PM.

If you’re eager to learn more about the food and tapas scene in this fascinating area of the city, then consider booking this tapas tour of Triana that will take you to a number of local bars!

Real Alcázar

After you’ve got your fill of seeing all of the traditional foods from Spain at the Triana market, it is time to visit one of Seville’s top attractions — the Real Alcázar . If you do nothing else in Seville on this list, please make sure you visit here.

This incredible royal palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was mostly constructed during the Moorish Almohad period in incredible Mudéjar style and it is an excellent and shining example of the Islamic-style architecture common throughout Andalucía and Spain as a whole.

Though the beautiful courtyard, patios and rooms within the Alcázar are exquisite and absolutely worth wandering through, one of the highlights for us was the vast gardens.

Filled with palm trees and orange groves, the gardens are a lovely, tranquil place to explore and you will surely feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of Seville’s tourist centre, even though it is just on the other side of the walls.

The Alcázar is one of the most popular attractions in Seville and for good reason — it is breathtaking. It is also now becoming even more popular as it was used as a filming location for Dorne in HBO’s Game of Thrones series. Make sure to devote at least 2 hours to visiting this wonderful site, if not more.

Adult entry into the Alcázar is worth every penny. However, like the Catedral de Sevilla, the queues for entry can get quite long if you want to pay at the door. If you don’t want to waste your short time in Seville waiting in line, it is worth purchasing your tickets online in advance.

You can purchase for half-hour time slots throughout the day and we had no problem purchasing our entry online just one hour before we wanted to go. It saved us a lot of time and energy and we would highly recommend you do the same.

Another option if you want to learn about the complex history of the Alcázar is to book a guided tour which will also allow you to skip the queue. You can also book a combined guided tour of the Alcázar & Cathedral if you want to tour both sites and save money on individual tours.

Plaza de España

Another of Seville’s most iconic spots to visit is the beautiful Plaza de España, or Spain Square. This is one of the most memorable areas of this Andalucían city as it is used in almost every photo of the city. And it is absolutely beautiful.

Built for the 1929 Ibero-American exhibition, it is known for its impressive Regionalism architecture with beautiful elements of the iconic Mudéjar and Renaissance revival styles.

The plaza is lined with beautiful benches laid with classic Andalucian tiles, enchanting porticos, and a small pond winding its way around the square. It is even possible to hire a boat and put around the square!

Plaza de España is an incredibly popular spot with tourists, which also makes it an excellent place to grab a free bench and people-watch for a bit. It’s always fun to rest your feet and watch the world go by. You can also wander over to the María Luisa Park, located just next to the square, and chill out here.

After a busy day of sightseeing, it is time to do another thing that is famous in Andalucía and beyond — see a flamenco show! Though you can certainly see flamenco in other parts of Spain, the style of music and dance originates in Andalucía and there is arguably no better place to catch it in its most pure form than Seville.

Going to a flamenco show is an incredibly popular activity with foreign visitors to Seville and it can be difficult to make sure that you get an “authentic” experience. Basically, many places peddle overpriced flamenco experiences that pack 100+ people into a room with a dish of sub-par paella and call it a bona fide experience.

However, flamenco should be an intimate occasion and therefore you should not be in a room with more than a 30-person capacity. If you also want a truly local experience, you are going to need to go late at night, however, there is nothing wrong with finding a performance that happens earlier in the evening as it does help to keep the art alive.

Arguably the best area in Seville to see a flamenco show is the Triana neighbourhood. This area has traditionally been home to the city’s Roma population and therefore is where flamenco in Seville got its start. Some of the best bars for flamenco in Triana include Casa Anselma and T de Triana.

These places, however, can get very busy at night and if you want to ensure you get to see a show then booking in advance can be a good option. You can go on this tour which takes you to an intimate venue and also includes a glass of local wine.

Day 3 – Córdoba Day Trip or Cooking Class

If you have more than 2 days and want to know what to do in Seville for three days, these are some of our suggestions. We would recommend you only pick one of these, however, either choice is a great one.

Day trip to Córdoba

The charming and historic city of Córdoba was once the most important city in Western Europe and is an easy day trip from Seville. With frequent bus and train connections between the two cities, embarking on a Córdoba day trip is a great way to spend the last day in Seville. You can also go on a guided tour.

An absolutely beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors, some of the highlights of Córdoba include the impressive Mezquita-Catedral, its historic Jewish quarter, and its beautiful squares and tapas scene.

Spanish Cooking Class

If you don’t feel like taking a day trip, then a Spanish cooking class is a fantastic idea. Spanish cuisine is complex and delicious, however, it is widely misunderstood and it can be hard to know the facts about what makes something “authentic”.

There are lots of cooking classes available in Seville, but we would personally recommend Taller Andaluz de Cocina . Located in the Mercado de Triana, they offer a range of cooking classes and market tours (we recommend this cooking class & market tour! ) that will more than certainly expand your knowledge of traditional Spanish cuisine, even if you’re a seasoned home cook.

Have more time in Seville?

If you have more than three days, then it can be a great opportunity to use the city as a base to explore more of Andalucía. Some of the best and most popular day trips from Seville include visits to the coastal town of Cádiz or the stunning hill town of Ronda.

Both of these towns will give you different perspectives on Andalucian life, history and culture and are within easy reach by bus, train, or car from Seville’s city centre.

You also could spend more time exploring Seville itself and taking in some more of this city’s historic sites and museums. Want to visit another Moorish palace? Head to the Casa de Pilatos. And if you’re a fine arts fan, then make sure to visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla (the Fine Arts Museum of Seville).

Seville Restaurants & Bars

Though noted for its beauty, Seville is also famous for its fantastic cuisine. And there is no shortage of fantastic places to eat in Seville, especially if you’re looking for an authentic Spanish tapas experience.

While there are certainly a lot of great restaurants in the main area in Seville, we recommend checking out a lot of the restaurants in the Triana neighbourhood, which happen to attract more locals and fewer tourists. These are some of our top suggestions.

Casa Martín – This small bar in Triana isn’t something you will find listed in many guidebooks, but it is incredibly popular with locals. They serve up traditional Sevillano tapas and have an excellent deal on their menú del día.

Blanca Paloma – This bar became one of our favourites in Seville, and we didn’t eat a bad meal in the city. This small Triana bar serves some excellent tapas and raciones and is an excellent place to pop in for lunch or a bite to eat in the evening with a beer. Make sure to try their boquerones fritas (fried anchovies) and bocaditos de  mejillones (mussel morsels), they’re fantastic. Keep in mind that this place does get incredibly busy, so if you want to ensure you get a table, make sure to arrive early.

La Fábula – Another local Triana hidden gem, La Fábula serves classic tapas with a twist and some excellent craft and imported beers. Notable dishes here include their papas mojo picón (potatoes in a spicy cumin sauce) and mojama de atún (cured tuna). Whatever you order, you can’t go wrong.

Las Golondrinas – One of Triana’s most popular tapas bars, Las Golondrinas is an excellent place for a small bite to eat with delicious food. They’re famous for their pork loin, however, you can’t go wrong with ordering anything on their menu.

Taberna Álvaro Peregil – This place is a hidden gem amongst a lot of tourist traps in central Seville. Located a stone’s throw away from the Cathedral and Alcázar, this traditional tapas bar is famous for its vino de naranja (orange wine) and chicharones (slow-cooked pork belly). Other great dishes to order include their espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas), a traditional Sevillano dish.

Where to Stay in Seville

Hotel Bécquer – This plush hotel in the centre of Seville is an excellent choice for those looking for a bright and comfortable stay. They have plenty of great rooms, a gorgeous outdoor terrace and pool, family rooms available and a superb breakfast each morning.

Monte Triana – If you’d like to stay on the Triana side of the river, this modern hotel is an excellent option. There are several modern rooms along with an inviting swimming pool and other great amenities.

Hostel One Catedral – A centrally-located hostel, this is a good choice for budget travellers looking for a social place to stay. There are dorms and private rooms, great shared spaces and a good atmosphere for meeting other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse for more hotels in Seville!

Best Time to Visit Seville

If you want to get away from the short, cold, and dreary winter days that plague most of Europe, then visiting Seville in winter is an excellent choice. Due to its southern location, the days in Seville are fairly long, even in the heart of winter, and you will likely be blessed with a number of sunny days and average high temperatures of around 16-20°C (60-68°F).

Summer, though arguably the most popular time to visit Seville, might be the worst season to come to the city. Temperatures can soar to well over 40°C (102°F) on many days and the average highs land around 35°C (95°F). Therefore, if you’re sensitive to the heat, it may not be the best idea to visit Seville between the months of June to September.

Like many destinations, one of the best times to visit Seville is in the shoulder seasons. The months of March-June and September-November are blessed with some of the best weather on the continent and just a fraction of the visitors that come during the much hotter high season.

If you do happen to visit in the month of April, you also have the opportunity to attend the Feria de Abril. Literally translating to the April Fair, this is a festival celebrating Andalucían culture that is fascinating to take part in.

Whether you plan to spend 2 days in Seville or 3, there is no denying that there are ample things to keep you occupied in this wonderful Spanish city.

Are you planning to visit Seville? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Andalucía

How to Plan a Granada Day Trip from Malaga or Seville

11 Best Places to Visit in Catalonia near Barcelona

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, Maggie.

Nice article about my favorite city, but you missed something very important….the Roman ruins of Italica.

Italica is in the nearby town of Santiponce, and it’s the place where three different Roman emperors were born (including Hadrian). The theater (opened recently) and the amphitheater are used for live events as well. Further, the amphitheater was used in the final season of Game of Thrones.

I think that the inclusion of Italica, as opposed to a trip to Cordoba (which should be its own location) would be good. 🙂

My daughter recommended your website!We enjoyed the Seville 3-day itinerary which you published! The tours were wonderful! I enjoyed the recommended chick peas with spinach! Yummmy! We had a very nice stay in Seville!

Thanks for your comment, Rene! I’m so glad you found our tips helpful and that you had a great time in Seville 🙂

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Seville blog — the fullest seville travel guide & suggested seville itinerary 3 days for first-timers.

Seville (Spanish Sevilla) is known as the capital of the ancient and tranquil Andalusia (Andalucía in Spanish) region of Spain. If you think Seville is not as famous and not worth a visit as Madrid or Barcelona, ​​then you are wrong. This is the convergence of the quintessence of the beautiful and prosperous Andalucia. The city of Seville always attracts visitors with ancient beautiful architecture with hundred years of history. Among them stand out with winding streets, famous churches and the home to the legendary flamenco dance.

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So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Seville for the first-time? Let’s check out our Seville travel blog (Seville blog) with the fullest Seville travel guide (Seville guide, Seville tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do as well as suggested Seville itinerary for 3 days to find out the answer!

Overview of Seville (#seville blog)

Known for its charming flamenco dance, tapas and endless sunshine with an area of 140.8 km² and a population of 702,386 people (March, 2021), Seville is one of Spain’s top destinations. Seville with its Moorish history and diverse architectural styles influenced by a variety of cultures that sometimes will make you wondering whether you’re still in Spain or in North Africa. With a lot of things see and do, Seville is the perfect destination for any type of traveler.

Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain and is a city with impressive historical value due to its long history dating back to the ancient Roman Empire 2000 years ago. From exploring a giant palace, take part in street festivals to learning bullfighting history, Seville offers a multitude of activities for you to do.

Besides important monuments and rich in history and culture, Seville is also known as a fun city. The Sevilla people are known for their for their wit, enthusiastic and sparkle and the city itself is vibrant and stands out for its vitality. It can be said that Seville is the city that embodies all the quintessence of Spain.

Seville travel guide: When to visit?

Seville is influenced by a subtropical Mediterranean climate with wet winters and long, dry summers. The best time to visit Seville is from late March, when the rainy season ends, until early June, when temperatures fluctuate between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius. April is the best month with Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril de Sevilla (Seville’s April Fair), when residents wear colorful flamenco dresses and celebrate for six consecutive days.

How to get to Seville?

From Madrid or Barcelona, if you’re looking for a cheap and reliable way to get to Seville, you can take a direct bus to Seville with no more than 6 hours of riding. Otherwise, an express train or a flight is another good option but it will be more expensive.

Airplane (#seville blog)

If you choose to fly with low-cost carrier such as Vueling from Madrid , you’ll probably arrive at Seville airport . A taxi to the city center costs about 25-30 euros/way. The EA bus will also take you to the city center in about 35 minutes for 4 Euros/way and 6 Euros/round-trip and you can take a taxi from its last stop to the hotel. Details see here.

From Barcelona you can also fly to Seville with Vueling, the airfare costs about EUR 20/one-way.

Spain has an efficient high-speed train system called Renfe AVE and is well worth the money when traveling around Spain. The Seville Santa Justa train station is the main station and likely the one you would pass by. It’s very crowded, so get here early if you’ve never been there as it may take time to find way.

The train from Madrid to Seville takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes of riding with covering a distance of approximately 390 km with the fare from EUR 23.35 while the train from Barcelona to Seville takes an average of 7 hours and 3 minutes of riding over a distance of around 830 km with the fare from EUR 19.12.

Read more: Guide to rail transport in Spain — How to travel around Spain by train & travel by train in Spain .

You can also take a bus from Madrid to Seville with traveling time from 5 to 7 hours and bus fare from EUR 38. Or take a bus from Barcelona with traveling time about 14 hours and 40 minutes and bus fare from EUR 40.

There are two bus stations in Seville, the Prado de San Sebastian Station and the Plaza de Armas Station. Check your ticket again to make sure you’re on the right way!

Seville guide: Getting around Seville

Besides the means to help you traveling between the attractions quickly and conveniently, are taxis, in Seville you can choose public transport such as buses, metro at much cheaper prices.

As mentioned above, the residents of Seville city have a very environmentally friendly lifestyle. Therefore, their means of transport are mainly “walking”, bicycles or electric bikes. You can follow them and walking on the streets of Seville. This is also a great way for you to discover the amazing architecture of this city.

In addition, you also can experience Hop on – Hop off sightseeing bus with price of only EUR 20/trip or horse-rawn carriage.

Seville Hop On Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Seville travel blog: What to do and where to go?

Santa Cruz Old Town

Located in the heart of Seville city and is one of the primary tourist neighbourhoods of Seville. The streets with ancient architecture, stretching and still remain the tranquil though annually welcome a large number of tourists coming to Seville. Along the streets are cafes of true Mediterranean style and at the streets corners the painters are leisurely painting. The Santa Cruz streets also lead to the most beautiful squares of Seville called Plaza de Espana, one of the best places to watch the outstanding Giralda bell tower in Baroque style.

Plaza de Espana

Plaza de Espana Square is one of the most famous and must-visit landmarks in Seville, having been the filming location for many blockbuster movies such as Star Wars II – Attack of the Clones (2002), The Dictator (2012) and Lawrence of Arabia (1962), the square designed by the great Seville architect Aníbal González.

This square located in Maria Luisa Park was completed in 1928 with a beautiful view with semicircular buildings on one side and an artificial canal 515 meters long running along the tiled alcoves. You can take a boat tour, it’s truly romantic experience. Many tiled alcoves also were built around the plaza, they representing for provinces of Spain. The plaza is designed in combination of many architectural styles including Art Deco and Spanish Renaissance Revival, Spanish Baroque Revival and Neo-Mudéjar styles.

Plaza de Espana is the most epic squares of the city of Seville. This site was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 – A world fair aimed at strengthening links between Spain and other countries in 1929.

Address: Av. Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla, Spain Hours: Open 24 hours

Maria Luisa Park

Across from Plaza de Espana square is the beautiful Maria Luisa park, where you can hide in the sun and enjoy the beautiful nature and chirping birds. Be sure to observe every detail of the structures when you step inside the park, from beautiful bridges on small canalsto a stopover that looks like it was inspired by a fairy tale.

Address: Paseo de las Delicias, s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain Hours: 8AM–10PM

Seville Cathedral

It is not only a famous tourist place in Seville but also a familiar name on all European tourist maps of all visitors. Dubbed the symbol of the city, always appearing on every advertising page, postcard about the city of Seville. The church was built from a platform of an old mosque in 1402, so it partly is influenced by the meticulous design of Islamic architecture, especially the famous Giralda bell tower. The inside of the church is beautifully decorated with a large amount of gold and many Gothic sculptures. Even without going inside, you can still appreciate the intricate details and the hard working efforts that made up this massive, beautiful cathedral.

• Cathedral, Alcazar, and Giralda Guided Tour Combo Tickets in Seville

In terms of size, this church is ranked 3rd in Europe with an area of ​​11,520 square meters. This is also the final resting place of the great explorer Christopher Columbus, you can go insiden and admire his tomb.

Address: Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain Hours: 8AM–2PM, 4–7PM Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Palace of the Dukes of Alba (Palacio de las Duenas)

Full convergence of beautiful features that make visitors delighted at first sight. This historic building is a national monument of Spain. It was built in 15th century and influenced by mix architectural styles such as Renaissance, Gothic and Moorish. It also a birthplace of the great poet Antonio Machado. It owns many courtyards and buildings with local influences in the bricks, shingles, tiles, whitewashed walls and pottery. It also houses a chapel.

Address: Calle Dueñas, 5, 41003 Sevilla, Spain Hours: Saturday, Sunday: 10AM–2:15PM

The old town of Macarena

Another Seville’s hidden gem is the old town of Macarena. Although it is still part of the historic center of Seville, it is lesser known to visitors. This working-class neighborhood retains some of its original charm and is currently being recreated as Seville’s arts center. In addition to wandering around the back streets and drinking at one of the many local bars in this neighborhood, you can also enjoy Spanish cuisine here.

Located in the north of Seville, walking around the old town, you will have the opportunity to admire the vast squares, beautiful architectural works, notably the Basílica de la Macarena Church.

Seville Museum of Fine Arts

If you are an art lover, the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville (Museo de Bellas Artes) is the paradise for you. Not only is the ancient building very well preserved, but the museum also preserves many collections of paintings from the Renaissance to the present day.

Address: Pl. del Museo, 9, 41001 Sevilla, Spain Hours: 9AM–3PM/Monday: Closed Founded: September 16, 1835

The Royal Alcázars of Seville (Alcázar Palace)

Alcázar Palace is one of the outstanding architectural achievements in Europe. This is a mixed-style garden palace that dates back to the Moorish period of the 11th century and still exists today. The lush vegetation, white walls and beautiful flowers contradict the palace’s exterior. The architectural complex of Alcazár castle, palace and park is typical of Mudéjar architectural style that is best preserved in Europe.

In Spain, Alcazár palace is very famous, not only appearing in the movie “Game of Thrones” but also because it is the oldest palace in the world still used by the Royal family. Through each reign of the king, along with the ups and downs of history, new architectural styles and decorations were applied to the palace, creating a spendid palace with many mixed-styles from Mudéjar Islam to Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque …

• Seville Alcazar, Cathedral and Giralda Tower Half Day Tour

• The Alcázar of Seville Guided Tour with Fast Track Access

With a variety of beauty in architecture, decoration and landscape, this palace has become a World Cultural Heritage since 1987, making it an ideal attraction when coming to the city of Seville.

Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol)

The world’s largest wooden structure, very artistic and impressive, also known as “las setas” (mushrooms), was designed by German architect Jürgen Hermann Mayer and opened in April 2011. Based on an image of giant mushrooms 4-storey high includes: A museum displaying the remains of Roman and Moors in the basement; Central market on the first floor; A cafe and concert area; A scenic view area on the rooftop. Metropol Parasol is becoming a new symbol of Seville.

Address: Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla, Spain Construction started: 2005 Hours: 9:30AM–9:30PM

La Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla

The arena of bullfights has the splendor of the eighteenth century. The mixed feelings of tension with bustle that matches bring has helped this place keep its “soul” beside the rush of time flow. However, like a double-edged sword, because of the violent drama of the matches, today the arena is limiting traditional bullfights. Instead, in the future, this place may become a place to perform special art performances but still retain the spiritual beauty of the country.

Address: Paseo de Cristóbal Colón, 12, 41001 Sevilla, Spain Opened: 1881 Architectural style: Baroque architecture

And finally Andalusia is home to the flamenco and where’s the better place to experience this vibrant, incredible dances than in its birthplace, Seville?! Appearing in the 18th century in the Triana neighborhood where the Gypsy people were concentrated, the flamenco has now become a UNESCO intangible culture heritage. At the corners of Sevilla streets, there are dancers who regularly perform flamenco mixed with Arabic, Oriental and Gypsy dances. Sevilla is also the only city in the world to have a flamenco museum.

Flamenco performances always attract visitors, so you can see these sexy dancers everywhere in the city. Some flamenco shows require payment but many performances are completely free.

The city also organizes many flamenco festivals during the year to both honor this culture and serving roughly 3 million visitors to Sevilla each year. And flamenco performances in auditoriums like El Arenal and Los Gallos often run out of space.

Seville travel blog: What to eat?

Tapas is a Spanish creation, you should definitely have to try Tapas once when you come to Spain. Tapas are small pieces of food of snacks, canapés or small savoury dishes in various forms and ingredients. Tapas can be cold or hot food. Popular as cheese mixed with olive oil, cold foods like sausages, ham, bacon or hot foods – like fried foods (squid, fish …). For Spanish, in addition to Sangria fruit cocktail, Paella rice, Tapas is an indispensable dish in every meal.

For the sweet lovers, it is impossible to ignore the crispy, fragrant churros sold in many street food vendors. It is a type of fried dough made from flour, butter, white sugar, cinnamon, eggs. Then fried in hot oil and then coated in cinnamon sugar. These delicious crispy churros is the perfect combination when it comes with a warm cup of chocolate.

Sangria (fruit cocktail)

This drink does not have a fixed recipe, but it is varied in different regions with the basic ingredients of red wine, fruit and sugar and sometimes liquor. The fresh fruits are soaked in red wine for about 1 night to reduce the acrid taste of the wine, adding the delicious, sweet taste of fresh fruit. It is serve in red-wine glasses with fresh berries.

Huevos a la Flamenca (Flamenco-style Eggs)

This is an attractive traditional dish in Seville. Although it is just a simple dish with eggs, it is sold everywhere from luxury restaurants to popular, cheap eateries. You can choose from many dishes with eggs such as: Eggs with potatoes, fried eggs, … but the most typical is still fried eggs with bacon, tomatoes, vegetables then sprinkled with salt and pepper and chopped parsley and adding some slices of chorizo sausage.

Tortilla Española (Spanish Egg and Potato Omelette)

To fully explore Seville’s cuisine, you must definitely not miss Tortilla Espanola, an omelette dish and national dish of Spain which made simply from potatoes, eggs, onions and spices, then mix well, fried in olive oil.

Bacalao (Dried and salted cod)

The dish is with a unique recipe using ingredients from dried and salted codand cooked with onion, pepper, cream, and olive oil. Or simply you can also enjoy the dried cod dish simmered with garlic.

In addition, you should also not miss the street snacks in Seville such as: Patatas bravas (potatoes in bravas sauce, Crispy Potatoes with Spicy Garlic & Chili Aioli), Calamares Fritos Recipe (Spanish Fried Squid), Boquerones fritos (Fried anchovies), Chorizo ​​(Spicy pork sausage), Paella (Spanish spicy fried rice with mussels, shrimp, squid, seafood)…

Seville blog: Suggested Seville itinerary for 3 days 2 nights

Here’s my itinerary for 3 days in Seville:

Flying from Barcelona to Seville with Ryan Air – Check-in at Pension Virgen de la Luz – Wandering to explore the small streets of Seville – Plaza de Espana – Seville Old Town – Return Pension (Homestay).

Starting from Pension – Seville Old Town – Breakfast at a restaurant on the way – Royal Alcázar of Seville – Lunch at Royal Alcázar of Seville – Catedral de Sevilla – La Giralda Bell Tower – Dinner in Old Town.

Starting from Pension – Seville Old Town – Breakfast at a restaurant on the way – Seville Metropol Parasol – Palace of the Countess of Lebrija – El Arenal Old Quarter – Dinner in Old Town.

Personally, I think my itinerary is quite typical and easy to explore and covering all main tourist attractions of Seville. I got a lot of experiences even though I only stayed for 3 days 2 nights. The trip cost for a single day in Seville (excluding the cost of renting rooms and tickets) is about 70 euros / day.

I often choose to walk as the main “means” during my trip, even though I have lost my way countless times. Because every time I walk, I gain more interesting experiences for my trip. By walking, sometimes I met new friends, sometimes I turned around beautiful street corners, or sometimes I found a secret place that only locals knew.

If you want to choose my itinerary as above for your upcoming trip to Seville, there are a few things you should consider to make sure your trip is truly memorable:

• Walking: In fact, you can take a bus, metro or tram to traveling around Seville, but if so, you will miss out on quite a lot of cool things in this peaceful city. Seville is not as bustling as Barcelona, ​​also not as trendy as Madrid but Seville still attracts the eyes of many visitors thanks to its own secret glamorous beauty but also extremely bold.
• Watching time: You can visit a lot of places in Seville. However, each place will have a different opening hour, so to not miss any beautiful places, be sure to arrive on time. I was not able to climb the tallest church in Seville to see the whole city because of this.
• Relaxing: The common mentality of everyone is to go as much as possible, check-in as much as possible, so they will want to go quickly to get to all the places. But I think this is a bit wrong and really no need in Seville. The city is not too big, most of the attractions are close to each other and most of the architecture is similar. Instead of going all out, you should choose some unique places to visit and experience in-depth.

Total costs for the Seville trip

My 3-day and 2-night trip in Seville costs around 350 euros per person, the details as follows:

• Flight tickets for Barcelona – Seville: About 50 euros including 20 kg of luggage.
• Room cost: About 30 euros / night; for 2 nights are 60 euros.
• Food cost: About 70 euros / day, for 3 days are 210 euros.
• The cost of the bus from the airport to the center: 5 euros / way.

The cost of trams / buses in the city: You can buy a pass called Seville Travel Card to take trains and buses in the city for cheap. This card can be bought at newspaper stalls, grocery stores, cost about 8 euros (including a hard card and money in it to travel). After spending all the money in the card you can go to the newspaper / souvenir stalls on the streets to buy.

In addition, you also can consider to buy a similar card called Seville City Pass .

Seville travel guide: Where to stay?

For the full experience in Seville, choose a Seville style accommodation called Pension. Hotels in Spain are also a bit expensive so I decided to choose a pension (a type of homestay in Seville) to better suit for my budget. Also, I think the pension with a unique, bold décor will give me a little experience of the beautiful “space and culture” of Seville. The Charming, CENTRAL with TERRACE has all what I need.

This pension is nestled in a small alley of Seville, about 1.2km from Old Town. For me this distance is quite good, you can walk into the center while viewing streets. In addition, this location also allows the Pension a quieter space and more peaceful than other places.

Pension’s main colors are white and blue (which reminds me a little of Santorini). White walls are tiled with blue tiles and blue motifs create an open and peaceful space. Plants are decorated in most floors. Pension also has a terrace for those who want to go up and see a part of the city. The price per night here is about 80 euros for two. You can see ratings and consider to book here .

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $90/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Alfonso XIII , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $318/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Silken Al-Andalus Palace Hotel , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $75/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Posada del Lucero , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $106/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $101/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Amadeus , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $192/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Seville guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Seville you can refer to

• Flamenco Show at El Palacio Andaluz in Seville
• The Flamenco Dance Museum Admission Ticket in Seville
• Cathedral of Seville Guided Tour with Fast Track Access
• Cordoba Guided Day Tour from Seville
• Seville Segway Tour
• UNPUBLISH Seville Guided Walking Half Day Tour of the Monuments
• Seville Night Walking Tour and Flamenco Show
• Seville: Royal Alcázar Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
• Seville Cathedral and Giralda: Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Seville: Guadalquivir 1-Hour City Cruise
• Seville: Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda Guided Tour Combo
• Seville: Royal Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda Guided Tour
• Seville: Casa de la Memoria Flamenco Show

Are you looking for more top things to do in Seville: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And how to spend 10 days in Spain . And Spain guide here .

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The Top 15 Things To Do in Seville in 2024

Neil Morris Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Seville is Spain’s fourth largest city making it a hotspot for national and international tourism. The capital of Andalusia has plenty to offer including one of the largest historic city centers in Europe. There’s also a wealth of monuments to visit and an exciting cultural scene. But where to start? Here are the top things to do on your trip to Seville.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our popular Seville tours and the best restaurants in Seville .

15 Cool Things To Do and See in Seville

Seville attracts culture vultures, foodies, sports fans, and more. To get the most out of the city, you need to find the perfect mix of things to do. That includes ticking some of the obvious tourist boxes but also heading off the beaten track. There’s something for everyone! Ready to discover this southern Spanish jewel? Let’s go!

Not ready to book a tour yet? Find out where to eat in Seville .

15. Have Family Fun at Isla Magica

If you travel in the summer to Seville with kids in tow, this place is a must visit. Isla Magica opens its doors for the summer season at the end of April. The family theme park has six world areas that take you back to the age of discovery. Themes include pirates, the Amazon rain forest, El Dorado and the fountain of youth.

There is a good choice of rides and attractions for kids. And there’s plenty of outside space to rest for when the adults need a break. A selection of restaurants and shops makes this a place where you can spend the whole day.

Address : Pabellón de España

14. Get a Culture Fix at the Museum of Fine Arts

Tucked away in the old town, the Museo de Bellas Artes boasts an impressive selection of Renaissance and baroque art. There are many works by artists from Seville’s golden age including Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Francisco de Zurbarán, and Juan de Valdés Leal. There’s also some modern pieces depicting Seville life in the 19th and 20th century.

EU citizens get in for free, otherwise the entrance fee is just a couple of euros. The building is also spectacular and worth visiting even if you are not a great fan of art. A great way to spend an afternoon, come rain or shine.

Address : Plaza del Museo, 9

13. Walk on Top of the Mushrooms

The Plaza de la Encarnación was the site of Seville’s old food market. In 2004, the Council launched an international competition to redesign the Plaza. The jury chose the idea of German architect Jürgen Mayer. He named the structure the Metropol Parasol, but locals called it Las Setas (the mushrooms). By the time construction finished, the nickname became official.

The structure provides some much welcome shade from the hot summer sun, and the rooftop features a walkway with spectacular views of the city in all directions. Pay extra for a guide to gain some great city insights.

Address : Plaza de la Encarnación

12. Eat a Hearty Meal of Pringá

Pringá is a sticky meat stew typical of Seville. In the local bars, it is often served as a tapas dish. To eat the best pringá in Seville, head to Bodeguita Romero. This place has been serving customers in the old town since 1939.

Their famous montaditos de pringá are the best in town. These small sandwiches packed with the succulent pork stew are so good that people queue at the door. But they are worth the wait.

Address: Calle Harinas, 10

11. Go in Search of Your Duende

Seville is a cradle of flamenco, and duende is part of the flamenco vocabulary. But what is it? In his 1978 book “El Arte Flamenco de la Guitarra,” Juan Martin describes duende as: “The spirit which inspires those extraordinary, fleeting moments when the performer achieves total communion with the audience.” He talks of “emotion at its most naked and poignant,” and concludes, “It is a rare thing, hardly to be talked about.”

So where might you find your duende moment in Seville? Try mythical bars such as Casa Matias on Calle Arfe, where spontaneous performances are commonplace. Or head to Calle Betis in the district of Triana where you can experience an intimate show in one of the many bars here.

Address : Calle Betis or Casa Matías

10. Visit a Football Stadium

Football plays a big role in Seville life. The city hosts two of Spain’s biggest teams (Sevilla FC and Real Betis), and the rivalry between them is one of the hottest in the game. Author Colin Millar, captured the intensity of El Gran Derbi (the great derby) in his book “The Frying Pan of Spain.”

If you can’t get match tickets, both clubs offer stadium and museum tours. And there are club shops where you can pick up memorabilia. The only question is: do you go red and white or green and white? Choose your colors with care.

Address : Calle Sevilla Fútbol Club and Av. de Heliópolis

9. Eat Churros and Chocolate

Eating churros (doughy sticks) and chocolate is a breakfast ritual for many Spaniards. But to appreciate them, you need to get freshly cooked ones. Not the inferior, frozen variety. So where to go for churros in Seville?

If you are in the center, head to Bar El Comercio. It usually packed with locals, but the vibe is great, and the churros are amazing. But for those on an odyssey to seek out the best churros of all, you need to head to the south of the city.

Located in Los Bermejales district, Churreria Hermanos Garcia is churros heaven. They make two types of churros, and you can choose from a range of melted chocolate to dip them in. Flavors include white, hazelnut, mint, and orange. Well worth the trip!

Address : Calle Lineros, 9 and Calle Nuestra Senora. del Pilar, 30

Planning your adventure in Seville? Don’t miss our top recommendations for where to stay in Seville and the best restaurants to try !

8. take a stroll around parque de maría luisa.

Located in front of the Plaza de España is the beautiful Parque de María Luisa. In 2017, flamenco artist Rafael Riqueni released an album dedicated to the park. Each song evokes his childhood memories of the different zones. Create memories of your own with an afternoon stroll under the shade of the trees.

The park is full of monuments, fountains, and grand buildings, and is a popular spot amongst locals. You can even get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife. There are a handful of restaurants within the park for refreshments when your legs need a rest.

Address : Calle Alfalfa, 5

7. Have a Sunset Cocktail on the Hotel Inglaterra Terrace

Want to take the weight of your feet after a hard day’s sightseeing? Head to the rooftop terrace of the Hotel Inglaterra for a sundown refreshment. The building is in the heart of the old town 250 meters from the cathedral. From there, you can enjoy views of the nearby Plaza Nueva, the Giralda, and the famous Seville Cathedral itself.

The terrace is open to everyone and often features live music. You can even grab a bite to eat for lunch or dinner but most people come here for the cocktails. It is a great place to pass a hot summer evening and soak up the Seville nightlife vibe.

Location, photos, and booking (affiliate link)

6. Experience Duende at the Flamenco Museum

If you still haven’t found your duende moment, pay a visit to the Flamenco Museum (Museo del Baile Flamenco). You just might find it there. In this 18th-century building, you can learn about flamenco history and culture. You can also watch a live show or take classes in dance and percussion.

The museum is a great all-round option to familiarize yourself with the art. A combined ticket includes museum access and a show, and tickets start as low as €10 for adults. The live performances typically last about an hour and feature up-and-coming artists. Seeing flamenco shows should be a guaranteed thing to do in Seville.

Address: Calle Manuel Rojas Marcos, 3 Cost:

5. Have a Drink in Seville’s Oldest Bar

It is rare that you get to drink in a bar founded over 350 years ago. But Seville offers that chance as one of the coolest things to do. El Rinconcillo first traded in 1670 and moved to its current location in 1858. Little has changed since then including the décor, and the same family still run the bar.

If you want a sense of what 19th-century Seville was like, stop by for a drink and a bite to eat. The tapas are high quality and the wine list is impressive. They serve local varieties from Seville, and you can book a wine tasting and learn about the best Spanish denominations. No visit to Seville is complete without a trip to El Rinconcillo.

Addresss: Calle Gerona, 40

4. Go Birdwatching or Ride the Train at Alamillo

Birdwatching is not a typical city activity. But Seville is not a typical city. Alamillo Park in the north of the city provides some spectacular green space for locals. The park features a forest and wildlife reserve and is a favorite spot for joggers and dog walkers.

There is a lake equipped with a birdwatching hide where you can spot hundreds of local species. If that’s not enough, there’s even a miniature railway and station to keep the kids amused. It is also a great place to enjoy a picnic and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Address : Carretera s/n, 41092

3. Stroll Along the Plaza de España

In 1929, Seville hosted the Ibero-American Exposition. To mark the occasion, the government commissioned the building of the Plaza de España. The result is a grand structure that features a mix of Spanish, Moorish and art deco styles. Architect Aníbal González designed the semi-circular building, which is now a photography hot spot for tourists.

You can catch a live flamenco performances by the main entrance. Hire a boat and relax on the water. Or admire the tiled mosaics representing the provinces of Spain that decorate exterior. It may be a relatively modern building, but it is one of Seville’s great spectacles.

Address : Avenida Isabel la Católica

2. Explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville

The Alcázar is one of Seville’s most popular tourist attractions. A walk around the UNESO World Heritage site is like a journey through time. The site features early Moorish and later Renaissance architecture.

You can visit free on a Monday after 4 pm but give yourself a few hours to enjoy the buildings and gardens. Or take advantage of a guided tour for some added detail. The site is also an essential destination for Game of Thrones fans. The creators chose the location to film the Kingdom of Dorne scenes in season five of the fantasy show.

Address: Patio de Banderas

1. Witness Majesty at Seville Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See dominates the center of Seville. Built on the site of the city’s old mosque, the cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage monument. And it is the largest gothic building of its type in the world, according to UNESCO. It is so vast it takes your breath away on first viewing.

The 12th-century Arab minaret known as La Giralda still stands next to the cathedral. The newer Christian building was constructed during the 15th and 16th centuries. And no trip to Seville is complete without a visit. You can buy a general admission ticket, but I recommend the guided tour to get the most out of your trip.

The tomb of Christopher Columbus greets you inside the Cathedral door. The explorer’s travels did not end when he died. His body moved from Valladolid, to Seville, to the Dominican Republic, to Cuba, and then back to Seville, where he has remained in the cathedral since 1899.

Address : Avenida de la Constitución

Where To Stay in Seville

The small yet impressive city of Seville is waiting for you. The question is simply where you want to stay in this ancient city. Use our guide to the best neighborhoods and hotels to plan your stay!

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One Day in Seville: Itinerary for First Visit (+Walking Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2024

Visiting Seville for just a day and wondering how to see the best of the city in a short time? In this guide, we share a recommended one-day Seville itinerary that covers the main sights and gives you a good introduction to this beautiful city in Andalusia in southern Spain.

This itinerary takes into account the opening times and the time that it takes to actually visit the main attractions or walk between different places. We also share our experience-based suggestions and tips on how to avoid the long queues and make the most out of your day in Seville.

To help you plan your sightseeing itinerary, we also created a map indicating a scenic walking route that connects all the top places (you can see it below). Please note that the walking route doesn’t indicate the evening part of the itinerary – that is because we have three different suggestions for you to choose from, and so where exactly to walk will depend on that.

Also, remember that the best way to explore any European city is by simply wandering around – you may discover some beautiful hidden gems that way. So simply use this 1-day Seville itinerary as a guide to the best experiences that are worth your time the most, and adjust it based on your personal interests, ticket availability, etc.

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

1 Day in Seville Itinerary – Overview

Here’s our recommended itinerary for one day in Seville in a nutshell:

• 9.30 – 11 AM: Royal Alcázar timed-entry tickets or early-access tour .
• 11.15 AM – 12 PM: Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower: timed-entry tickets or guided tour .
• 12 – 2 PM: Explore the old town + lunch.
• 2 – 2.30 PM: Plaza de Toros (bullring).
• 2.30 – 3.30 PM: Torre del Oro and riverside walk.
• 3.30 – 4.30 PM: Plaza de España and Maria Luiza Park.
• Evening: Flamenco show and dinner (we booked this flamenco + tapas tour , and there are many other options ).
• Late evening: Setas de Sevilla.

You can find all the details, pictures, and useful information for each of these sights and attractions further below. Read on!

TIP: If you are not interested in tours and rather just get tickets, this Seville Super Combi includes the main attractions and allows you to choose all the time slots in one booking.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Seville in 2 Days

Here is a detailed Sevilla 1-day itinerary:

Royal Alcázar of Seville

9.30 – 11 AM.

The Royal Alcazar (Real Alcázar) is one of the absolute must-sees in Seville. Because it opens earlier in the morning than many other places, we suggest starting your day here. Plus, it’s so popular and so busy that the best way to make the most of your visit (and plan the rest of your day) is by coming here first thing in the morning.

Real Alcarzar is an impressive palace complex that was built in different phases spanning over many centuries starting from the High Middle Ages. This has led to a unique mix of architectural styles with a strong Moorish influence, but also Baroque and Renaissance styles.

The palace is huge, with multiple buildings and countless rooms, and it’s surrounded by vast gardens. You could easily spend half a day here alone and still not see everything… But with just a day in Seville, we recommend that you plan 1.5-2.5 hours for Alcazar.

Good to know: No matter how you decide to visit Royal Alcazar – on your own or with a tour – be sure to book in advance and get the earliest possible time slot (or the earliest tour). The palace normally opens at 9.30 AM and by 9 AM there is already a queue that stretches for a few blocks… So – once again – be sure to book ahead or you will waste too much time!

Planning info: For this itinerary, we recommend either timed-entry tickets (get the 9.30 AM slot, but arrive earlier!) or this ‘Alone in the Alcazar’ tour (that starts at 8.30 AM). We opted for this tour and could enter the palace an hour before it opened to the public. It’s an absolutely unique experience and worth every cent. However, availability is limited and these tours only run a few times a week. Be sure to check if it’s possible during your visit and don’t hesitate – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cathedral & Giralda Tower

11.15 AM – 12 PM.

The Seville Cathedral is another must-see in the city, just as its impressive tower, Giralda . The Cathedral is located just near the Alcazar and so we suggest continuing your sightseeing itinerary here.

In 1401, the city decided to demolish an old mosque that served as a cathedral at that time and to build a new church that would be “so beautiful and so grand that those who see it will say we were mad”. Indeed, the Cathedral of Seville is immense. It’s also the largest Gothic church in the world and one of the largest Catholic churches ever built.

The exterior of the church is absolutely impressive, but the interior is well worth seeing too. Some of the must-sees inside include the main altar, the monumental grave of Christopher Columbus, and the works by Goya, Zurbaran, and Murillo.

From the Cathedral you can also access the Giralda Tower . The 96-meter-high tower was part of an old mosque and was kept as a bell tower when the new church was built. It is possible to climb the tower to enjoy 360° views of the city. However, keep in mind that a metal safety net obstructs the views so taking any decent pictures from the top is very difficult.

TIP: If you want to be sure to visit the Cathedral, you have to book a timed-entry ticket in advance! Also, if you want to climb the tower, do that first thing after the security check (before you even enter the church). When it’s busy, they give priority to those who are entering from the outside with timed tickets rather than people who are already inside the church. You can visit the church itself after you come down from the tower.

Planning info: For this itinerary, we recommend booking a time slot at around 11-11.30 AM. If you want to spend more time at the Alcazar, plan to visit the Cathedral a bit later (but keep in mind the rest of the itinerary and what else you want to see with a day in Seville).

Good to know: On Sundays, the Cathedral only opens late in the afternoon. So if you are visiting Seville on a Sunday (and this is the only day that you have in town), you’ll have to adjust this itinerary. Because many sights are located relatively close to each other, it’s easy to do.

Lunch + Barrio de Santa Cruz

12 – 2 PM.

After all that sightseeing and slow walking at the Alcazar and the Cathedral, you’ll likely be exhausted by noon. So we recommend sitting down for lunch and taking some time to rest and enjoy local food.

There is no shortage of eateries in the old town of Seville, so you’ll definitely find a nice place for some tapas. Just be sure to quickly check reviews (we usually use Google Maps) so that you can avoid tourist traps. I also indicated a few excellent places for tapas on our map – we tried some of them personally and others were recommended by local guides.

Also note that the Spanish tend to eat later, so some restaurants don’t open until 1 PM. However, there are usually plenty of places that are open earlier and if you go to eat around noon, it’s much easier to find a table – an hour later, everything is full.

While you are looking for a place for lunch (or after that), take some time to explore the neighborhood called Barrio de Santa Cruz . Located to the east of the Cathedral and the Alcazar, this is a cozy labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful historic buildings.

There is a lot more to see here (Hospital los Venerables, La Casa del Flamenco, Casa de Salinas, etc.) but with just a day in Seville, just walk around, have lunch, maybe get some souvenirs, and move on. We indicated a suggested walking route on the map, but you don’t have to follow it to the t, it’s just a suggestion.

General Archive of the Indies and/or Plaza del Cabildo

Depending on your interests and how you feel on the day itself, there are a few extra places that you could easily add to this one-day Seville itinerary.

One is the General Archive of the Indies (Archivo de Indias), an archive and library that holds important documents about Spain’s colonization of the New World. The archive is located inside a beautiful 16th-century merchants’ exchange building and is free to visit. The exhibition is limited, but the building is nice to see. It’s not a must, but you’ll pass here anyway so if you have a few minutes to spare, you may want to check it out.

Another place that I really recommend seeing is Plaza del Cabildo . This is a very picturesque little plaza surrounded by a unique arched building. It’s a real hidden gem just steps from the main tourist routes and you only need a few minutes to see it. We were here on a Sunday and there was a flea market in the area. Otherwise, it’s much quieter with just a few souvenir and antique shops inside.

Seville Bullring – La Real Maestranza

2 – 2.30 PM.

Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla is the bullring of Seville. Built in the 18-19th centuries it’s one of the oldest arenas in Spain and offers space for almost 13,000 spectators. And yes, it’s still used for bullfighting nowadays, although only several times a year. The rest of the time, it functions as a museum.

No matter how you feel about this Spanish tradition, we highly recommend a visit to Seville’s bullring. The building itself is very impressive and you can learn more about Corrida and see paintings, posters, as well as bullfighter’s capes and costumes.

You can also take a peek behind the scenes – the animal stalls, the bullfighter’s chapel, etc. The visit ends at the impressive arena itself.

Good to know: You need about half an hour for a thorough visit. If you want to learn more about the place, you can download a free audioguide using QR codes inside the museum.

Planning info: Normally, you can just get the tickets for the bullring on the spot, but sometimes the queue can be quite long (and other times, no queue at all). If you want to enter without a wait, you can prebook your tickets on their website . We just paid at the entrance and had to wait less than 5 minutes to get in. There are also guided tours available.

Riverside Walk & Torre del Oro

2.30 – 3.30 PM.

After leaving the bullring, cross the street toward the Guadalquivir River. There is a nice pedestrian walkway here, on several levels (closer to the water or higher, at street level). It’s a very nice area for a stroll, offering a bit of a breeze and great riverside views.

You have a few options here – simply walk along the river in the southeasterly direction toward Maria Luiza Park (next stop on this itinerary), or take a river cruise to rest your legs a bit and see the city from a different perspective.

If you walk, you’ll pass a few places of interest along the way. One is the Nao Victoria 500 , a replica of the first ship that circumnavigated around the world. You can visit this ship and there is a small museum inside, but the fee is quite steep for a rather small exhibition, and you can just see the ship from the outside.

Next, you will pass Torre del Oro (the Golden Tower), a 13th-century tower that was part of the city’s military fortifications. Nowadays, there’s a small maritime museum inside, and you can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy elevated views of the river. It’s nice to do if there is no wait and the ticket price is just a few euros. But it’s not something I would stand in line for, especially if you only have a day in Sevilla and your time is limited.

Continue further south following the river until you reach the entrance to Maria Luiza Park.

Plaza de España and Maria Luiza Park

3.30 – 4.30 PM.

Parque de Maria Luisa is the biggest and most beautiful park in Seville’s city center. You could rent a bike for half an hour to explore the park in a more relaxing way or simply walk around a bit.

There is a service at the park that rents bikes, tandems, and ‘cyclobuses’ for the whole family. We indicated the location of this rental service on the map, but you’ll likely just pass there as you enter the park from the riverside.

The park is adjacent to Plaza de España , a monumental half-moon-shaped square that you probably saw in Seville travel brochures. This huge square was the centerpiece of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 and is absolutely impressive with a canal, several bridges, and a large fountain in the middle. The walls of the buildings surrounding the square are lined with alcoves with azulejo tiles representing different provinces of Spain.

Plaza de Espana is an absolute must-see in Seville. So even though it’s a bit out of the way from all the other places in this itinerary, don’t miss it!

Planning info: The park and the square are public spaces and are free to visit.

Flamenco Show + Dinner

TIMING DEPENDS ON WHAT EXACTLY YOU CHOOSE

No visit to Seville would be complete without seeing a Flamenco show. After all, Seville is the birthplace of Flamenco, so if there is one place in Spain where you have to see it, it’s in Seville.

There are countless places in the city where you can see Flamenco shows. Often, you will also see performers dancing on the streets. But for the most authentic experience, visit a small traditional theater where the spaces are quite small, the public sits very close to the performers, and the experience is more intimate.

Here are a few suggestions on how to plan your evening in Seville:

OPTION 1 (this is what we did). We opted for this highly-rated Flamenco + tapas tour . It starts at Plaza de San Francisco at 5.30 PM and just walking there (+-25 minutes from Plaza de España), you will see more of the old town along the way. The tour includes tapas and aperitif at abacería (a small grocery store/bar), a traditional Flamenco show, and a sitting dinner at a wonderful local restaurant where you are served so many amazing tapas and wines that you can hardly fit it all in…

This is a long tour – about 4 hours, but there is little walking and it’s a very relaxing and authentic experience. We did it with our teenagers and I was a bit worried that they would find it boring, but they loved it. To my husband, this was the best experience in Seville.

If you opt for this option, the restaurant where you will end the tour is in the center, about 15 minutes walk from Setas de Seville, which is the last place we recommend visiting at the end of the day (more info below).

If you rather explore more of the city on your own, you can easily plan your own Flamenco and tapas evening. Below are two more options – depending on how much walking you want to do.

LEARN MORE: Tapas & Flamenco Tour in Seville

OPTION 2 (Flamenco in Triana). Triana neighborhood, on the other side of the river, is where Flamenco originated. There are several theaters in Triana where you can see a Flamenco show. One of the most popular places here is Teatro Flamenco Triana (also about 25 minutes walk from Plaza de España).

Afterward, head to the area around Mercado de Triana for a tapas dinner. This popular food market will likely be closed by the time you get there, but there are many nice restaurants in the area.

OPTION 3 (Flamenco in the old town = less walking, especially if you follow this itinerary and visit one more place late in the evening – see further). For this option, book tickets for Flamenco in the old town (e.g. Casa de la Memoria or at Flamenco Museum , and then find a nice restaurant for dinner in the same area, before or after the show.

Depending on which theater you choose, the walk from Plaza de España is about 20-30 minutes, but then you are already much closer to the last place in this itinerary (just 3-8 minutes).

I indicated all these theaters on our map (at the top of the article) so that you have a better idea of the location. On the same map, you will also see some recommended restaurants, but there is really no shortage of good places for tapas anywhere in Seville.

Setas de Seville

LATE EVENING.

There is no better place to end your day in Seville than Setas de Seville , aka Metropol Parasol . So if you want to make the absolute most out of your visit, we highly recommend you check it out!

Setas de Seville is a large modern wooden structure with a viewing platform on top. You can see it from the outside just like that, but you will need a ticket to visit the rooftop.

The views from the top are really nice and many people say that it’s a wonderful place to come at sunset. But we recommend visiting here in the dark when you can enjoy a beautiful LED show ‘Aurora’ as well – it’s absolutely spectacular. The light show starts as soon as it gets dark, so if you come at sunset, hang around a bit longer and see the best of both – day and night views.

Your ticket also includes a ‘Feeling Seville’ experience, which is basically a short film about the city, but it comes with some extra touches that allow you to literally feel the city. I won’t tell more, but it’s really nice, so don’t miss it.

Planning info: The Setas de Seville viewing platform is open very late (usually past midnight), so it’s very simple to fit it into your itinerary. You can reserve timed tickets on the official website in advance, but normally, it’s not absolutely necessary. We got our tickets on the spot, but had to wait over half an hour to get in, so if you absolutely want to be sure to visit (and at a specific time), then you may want to book ahead.

Some Tips for Your First Visit to Seville

Here are some additional tips for your visit to Seville:

• Best time to visit Seville is outside of the summer months. This is one of the hottest places in Spain and sightseeing at over 40°C (104°F) is really not the best way to enjoy the city. If you are traveling in the summer, carry plenty of water with you!
• Avoid visiting Seville during Holy Week (Semana Santa) – it’s so busy that sightseeing is practically impossible. It’s nice to see religious processions, but very difficult to do much else. It’s also the most expensive time to visit.
• Dress comfortably and according to the weather forecast, but remember that the Cathedral has a ‘modest’ dress code. Wear comfortable shoes – you will be walking a lot.
• Book all the tickets/tours that you absolutely don’t want to miss in advance . Otherwise, you won’t be able to see as much in a day and will waste hours in endless queues.
• €€€€€€€€€+ Hotel Alfonso XIII – the iconic historic grand hotel of Seville.
• €€€€€ Radisson Magdalena Plaza – a very highly-rated modern 5* hotel.
• €€€€ Hotel Amadeus Sevilla – a charming, music-themed boutique 4* hotel.
• €€€ Hotel Doña María – a very popular mid-budget 4* hotel set inside an old palace.
• €€ Hotel Cervantes – excellent value hotel a bit outside of the main tourist areas (no pool though).

So, this sums up our recommended one-day Seville itinerary.

As you can see, it offers a nice mix of the most famous historic sights, and unique landmarks, as well as Flamenco and tapas, the two ‘musts’ in any Seville itinerary!

I hope that this guide, our walking map, and tips help you plan an unforgettable visit and make the most out of your time.

TIP: If you are still planning your trip and can slightly adjust the itinerary, we highly recommend staying in Seville longer than a day; there is so much to see and do! Take a look at our 2-day Seville itinerary for additional recommendations for a longer visit.

Have a great trip!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Barcelona Travel Tips
• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1-Day Itinerary
• Barcelona 2-Day Itinerary
• How to Visit Montserrat from Barcelona
• Montserrat Tour Review
• How to See the Best of Madrid in One Day
• Toledo Day Trip from Madrid
• Bilbao – San Sebastian Itinerary for 2 Days
• Best Things to Do in Bilbao
• 1 Day in Bilbao
• Tips for Visiting Gaztelugatxe

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The Sunny Spanish City That's Known for Flamenco Dancing Has Tasty Tapas, Striking Landmarks, and Elegant Boutique Hotels

Here's what you need to know before visiting Seville.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

There are many reasons to visit Andalusia, but none are more compelling than its vibrant riverside capital. Originally founded by the Romans and later conquered by the Moors, Seville is rich in cultural traditions. “As one of the most significant Atlantic ports on the Iberian Peninsula dating back to ancient times, its monumental heritage creates an amazing combination of history, beauty, and food for travelers to enjoy,” says Alvaro Carmona , a ToursByLocals guide based in Seville.

Elegant and endlessly attractive, the city displays almost constant reminders of its time under Moorish rule with striking landmarks such as the Royal Alcázar of Seville (one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain ) and La Giralda as standouts. Seville is the birthplace of flamenco with many famous venues for visitors to take a lesson or catch a show. It’s also the storied backdrop for over 100 operas — among them "Carmen," "The Barber of Seville," and "Don Juan de Mañara" — and has some world-class museums. The tapestry of influences, abundance of regional products, and immense local talent translate to a culinary scene that rivals the many epicurean power players throughout the country. Plus, the Mediterranean climate means sunshine, blue skies, and warm weather throughout the year — so it’s always a good time for sightseeing and enjoying a glass of wine or sherry at an alfresco café.

Whether you're looking to tour UNESCO sites or sample tasty tapas (probably both, right?), use this guide full of recommendations from local insiders to plan the perfect trip to Seville.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• See a flamenco show. 
• Marvel at the Royal Alcázar of Seville.
• Climb La Giralda for panoramic views.
• Do a tapas tour. 
• Stay at Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Courtesy of Nobu Hotel Seville

Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville

What did the king of Spain do when he needed to host international dignitaries during the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition? He commissioned a grand hotel befitting his high-status guests, of course. Nearly a century later, Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville remains a symbol of grandeur and glamour that easily goes toe-to-toe with the most spectacular stays in Barcelona and Madrid.

Nobu Seville

The new Nobu Seville brings its signature sense of Japanese minimalism to Plaza San Francisco. While loyalists will find all the Nobu classics — black cod, rock shrimp tempura, and toro tartare with caviar — the 25-key property also exudes a soulful sense of place thanks to traditional Andalusian touches and a rooftop terrace with a guest-only plunge pool, leafy gardens, and sweeping city views.

Hotel Mercer Seville

Ever dreamt of snoozing in a palace? Situated inside the former Casa Palacio Castelar in the heart of the El Arenal quarter, Hotel Mercer Seville is full of history. The refined boutique atmosphere and relaxing suites complete with oak floors, crisp linens, and high ceilings make it an ideal place to unwind after visits to nearby Nueva Square and Real Maestranza Bullring.

Hotel Palacio de Villapanes

Originally built by Admiral López-Pintado in 1729 and later the residence of the Marquis of Villapanés and his descendants, Hotel Palacio de Villapanes still reflects its roots as a Baroque mansion. The tiled central courtyard with a fountain, leafy plants, and arched columns commands focus. Not to be outdone, noble suites show off immense carved wooden doors, high ceilings, and Philippe Starck-designed tubs.

Radisson Collection Hotel, Magdalena Plaza Sevilla

For something a bit more modern, check into the Radisson Collection Hotel, Magdalena Plaza Sevilla . The brand’s first outpost in Spain blends clean lines and local character. Blue velvet accent chairs evoke the Andalusian sky, while plants nod to the many leafy squares and gardens around the city. “It’s also well positioned in the shopping area and very close to many top tourist attractions,” adds Carmona.

Tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville.

The first thing on the to-do list for many travelers coming to Seville? A visit to the UNESCO-listed Royal Alcázar of Seville, a stunning architectural masterpiece and historic royal palace crowned by ornamental tile work, carvings, and artwork that grew out of a 10th-century citadel.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Visit the Seville Cathedral.

The impressive Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic Christian church in the world. Size aside, it’s breathtakingly beautiful and also boasts the iconic La Giralda, which was originally constructed as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville and later converted into a bell tower.

See a flamenco show.

“No trip to Seville is complete without experiencing the passion and intensity of a traditional Flamenco show,” says Antonio Morilla, head concierge at Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville. La Casa del Flamenco and Tablao Flamenco El Arenal are some of the most famous theaters to watch the Andalusian dance.

Learn about Spanish history at the Archivo General de Indias.

Occupying a stately 16th-century merchant guild building, Archivo de Indias is an archive dedicated to the history of the “New World.” It holds more than 80 million pages of documents, photographs, drawings, and diaries from the likes of Columbus, Cortés, and Pizarro.

Ayhan Altun/Getty Images

Stroll through the Plaza de España.

Designed by Sevillian architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-America Exhibition of 1929, Plaza de España is one of Seville's crown jewels. The famous plaza comprises magnificent buildings that marry elements from art deco, Spanish Renaissance Revival, Spanish Baroque Revival, and Neo-Mudéjar architectural styles, plus a large fountain, canals, and tile-accented bridges.

Irina Shatilova/Getty Images

Michelin-starred Cañabota draws admiration from diners and critics alike. “It’s well-regarded for its modern versions of classic Sevillian seafood dishes and fantastic wine list,” says Morilla. Pro tip: Grab a seat at the counter to watch the masterful cooking up close.

Abantal is an elegant Michelin-starred restaurant that’s famous for its refined, flavorful cuisine. Head chef Julio Fernández combines Andalusian cooking traditions, innovative techniques, and high-quality local ingredients into incredible gastronomic tasting menus. It’s worth splurging on the wine pairing.

Sobretablas

Helmed by chef Camila Ferraro and sommelier Robert Tetas, Sobretablas celebrates the bounty of Andalusia in exciting and elevated ways. The cuisine puts a contemporary twist on classic regional recipes and pairs perfectly with the selection of natural and organic wines.

Bodeguita Romero

Out-of-towners and locals rub elbows over jamón ibérico, bull tail stew, and smoked sardine toast, plus Spanish wine and sherry, at Bodeguita Romero , a buzzy tapas bar in El Arenal that often has a line around the block. Carmona calls it “an essential stop in Seville.”

La Cochera del Abuelo

Tucked inside an 18th-century carriage house, La Cochera del Abuelo feels warm and intimate. The food very much matches the homey atmosphere. The curated menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new yet deliciously familiar to tickle your tastebuds.

With more than 3,000 sunny hours annually, Seville is really beautiful every day of the year. Carmona favors the beginning of spring when more than 40,000 bitter orange trees flower at the same time. “It’s simply magical!”

Seville Airport (SVQ) sits just six miles from the city center. It mainly receives domestic flights, so most travelers connect through Madrid. “If you're coming from another Spanish city, particularly the capital, taking the train is a great option. The high-speed trains (AVE) are very comfortable, reliable, and fast, allowing you to reach Seville from Madrid in approximately 2.5 hours,” explains Morilla.

The old Jewish quarter is known for its narrow, winding streets lined with whitewashed houses, picturesque plazas, and the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and the Flamenco Museum.

“Located on the west bank of the Guadalquivir River, El Arenal offers a vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and cultural attractions such as the Maestranza Bullring and the Torre del Oro. According to Morilla, it’s also a great neighborhood for tapas and nightlife.

Flamenco was born in Triana, and the residential neighborhood is still a great place to see a show. “The incredible views over the city center, the ceramic workshops, and the many bars also make it a wonderful area to spend time on a trip to Seville,” says Carmona.

Seville was plotted out long before the invention of cars, when people used to walk and ride horses. “In my opinion, strolling around is the best way to slowly savor the beauty of the many squares, churches, gardens, museums, landmarks, and bars,” says Carmona. Needless to say, comfortable walking shoes will be an essential item on your Spain packing list .

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11 Best Things To Do In Seville, Spain

Perched within the Andalusia region, Seville is one of the country’s most gorgeous places to visit . And, of course, being the capital of the region there are so many of the best things to do in Seville that are totally perfect for a city break.

Of course, with all the Flamenco dancing, tapas and toros; Seville has made quite a name for itself as a place to visit in its own right or part of a longer road trip. That’s why I wanted to share some of my favourite and best things to do in Seville on your next trip to the city. There really are so many places to explore.

Take a look below at some of the best things to do in Seville. You’ll have an epic time.

1.) Alcazar Of Seville 

One of the most recognisable spots from Seville has to be the Alcazar.

Forming part of a Royal Palace (that is still used by the Spanish royal family), this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the best things to do in Seville for sure.

Inside, the private rooms, halls and gorgeous staterooms are on the upper level and are open for viewing (if you pay, of course). Apparently, most of the palace complex is built in a Mudejar style and was developed centuries ago. Often this style was used for Moorish buildings that were non-Islamic.

Whilst you’re here, walk between the courtyards and keep your eyes peeled for the beautifully carved ceilings. The palace is huge.

Just remember to book these skip-the-line tickets before your visit. Honestly, you’ll hate queuing for hours in the glaring Spanish sun.

Read more: Best places in the south of Spain to visit

2.) Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is a pretty enormous place that’s hard to miss in the city itself.

It has a whopping 80 chapels (give or take a few), making it the world’s largest cathedral by volume! Trust me when I say, this is huge.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Seville Cathedral was once home to a mosque that stood on the site itself. Reminders of that past can be still seen in the Court of the Orange Trees to the north of the cathedral, too -so, keep your eyes peeled.

Today, you can book these queue jump tickets which will get you right into the heart of the cathedral and see the views of Seville from La Giralda Tower.

Oh yeah, and once inside, make sure to see the tomb and final resting place of Christopher Columbus, too.

Afterwards, pop over to  Casa Morales which has some of the best tapas around.

3.) Giralda Tower

Giralda Towe is possibly one of the most famous symbols of Seville (and hard to miss). Sitting right next door to the cathedral, it has a whole heap of Moorish influence from when It was the minaret to the mosque that once stood here.

Still, to this day, it’s one of the best things to do in Seville if you want to explore the city’s history. The thing that surprised me most is that the tower has no stairs… at all!

Instead, 34 ramps lead the way right to the very top of the tower. Apparently, It was designed like this so that the Muezzin (that led the call to prayer) could ride his horse up the tower instead of walking.

Climb the tower, see the views and wear comfy shoes, it’s still a relatively high tower.

4.) Space Metropol Parasol

If you’re looking for views over Seville, pop to the Space Metropol Parasol at La Encarnación square. Opened a few years ago, it’s one of Seville’s newest and coolest things to see. Once here, make sure to take a stroll around the upper levels (especially around sunset).

It gives a totally unique perspective of Seville.

It really is beautiful and also pretty cheap.

Also, if you fancy giving your feel a little rest, book these tickets to board the Guadalquivir city cruise that’s totally gorgeous.

You’ll get taken down Seville’s famous river and take in some seriously good views of the city and its most iconic places to see (the towers of Plaza de España).

5.) Plaza de Espana

You can’t miss  Plaza de Espana when visiting Seville. It’s a colossal monument which was built (almost 100 years ago) for the Ibero-American Exposition and is pretty immense!

Created around a semi-circle, the plaza edges onto a canal and is overlooked by a pretty vast curved palace.

Here you will find loads of important national figures of Spain as well as information about each of the country’s provinces (that’s actually quite interesting).

Take a stroll around the plaza, take in the vibe or even hop on a horse-drawn cart to explore.

6.) Maria Luisa Park

Perched in central Seville, Maria Luisa is probably one of Seville’s largest parks, which once belonged to San Telmo Palace.

With hundreds of years of history, it’s one of the best things to do in Seville if you fancy slowing down your pace. Walk along the vast trails and explore the botanic garden. It’s a gorgeous spot to see and is easily combined with a trip to Plaza de Espana.

Afterwards, pop over to  La Monda (on Calle de Don Remondo) for some of their grilled octopus tapas. Yum!

7.) Triana District

Situated on the left bank of the Guadalquivir, you’ll find one of the best things to do in Seville, the Triana district.

Often thought of as the most vibrant area of the city, it’s famous for its flamenco and painted local craft stalls that line the streets.

Once here, make sure to visit Plaza de Altozano which has a pretty famous statue of a flamenco dancer. The whole area is full of Moorish buildings, baroque architecture and shops selling stunning azulejo tiles and ceramics (so take some cash).

After exploring the streets, pop over to the unsophisticated  Los Valencianos . It serves up some of the best horchata (and ice cream) in the area.

8.) Tablaos and Flamenco Shows

One of the best pastimes to experience in Seville has to be a Flamenco and Tablaos show.

Now, there are loads of bars and restaurants that will have dancers to watch but a good option for you to see these shows is at Casa de la Memoria – which we love!

To make sure you gain entry, book these Flamenco tickets in advance. This way, you’ll definitely be able to enjoy this gorgeous little theatre (dating back to the 15th Century) that’s so quaint and feels so special.  

Alternatively, book these tickets to see a Flamenco show at Seville’s Flamenco Dance Museum. You’ll take a seat within the famous courtyard that dates all the way back to the 1700s. Plus, you can always include the option to visit the Flamenco Dance Museum with this ticket. 

Finally, during spring and autumn, you may catch Penas de Guardia. It’s a series of organized shows for locals to showcase their up-and-coming talent in the art of flamenco. You’ll have a great time.

Book: Flamenco tickets in Seville

9.) Seville’s Museums

If you fancy getting out of the sun (for a little bit) pop straight over to Seville’s museums that are amazing.

For instance, the city’s Archaeological Museum even has exhibits from the Bronze Age 8 th century BC and is one of the best (in my opinion) to explore. Afterwards, you can pop over to the Museum of Arts and Traditions with mountains of 16th-century swords and local crafts.

The Museum of Fine Arts holds works mostly from the 17 th and 18 th centuries that were once in religious establishments such as convents and monasteries that were closed in the 19 th century. It’s one of the best things to do in Seville, especially if the weather gets too hot, or a little rainy.

Afterwards, pop to  Hops and Dreams for a modern take a Spanish tapas.

10.) The Seville Fair

With over 1,000 casetas, performances, celebrations and lots of food, the Seville Fair (Feria de Abril de Sevilla) is one of the best things to do in Seville for sure!

Usually situated within the fairgrounds and a pretty massive area around the Guadalquivir River, the Seville Fair is pretty incredible to experience. Honestly, it’s well worth planning your trip around the festival if you can.

Each night, the music, sherry,  music and dancing continue right until sunrise. Just make sure to have a good siesta before the festival starts.

11.) Experience the Semana Santa

Parts of Seville come to a complete standstill during the holy week, with it being a really unique time to explore the city. Head over and watch the parade through the streets that begin on Palm Sunday and end a week later.

Whilst here, you’ll spot the traditional robes, pointed hats (a capirote) and sandals that Nazarenos wear in the procession. It’s a pretty unique thing to see and something that happens in a few places in Spain.

Read more: Best places to visit in Spain

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15 things you can only do in Seville, Spain

Sep 4, 2024 • 13 min read

Get to know the beautiful city of Seville with these unique experiences. Vladislav Zolotov/Getty Images

Seville is quick to win people over. But even though you’ll soon feel a charmed familiarity with the city, its diversity will keep you rediscovering it over and over.

The Andalucian capital’s past is elegantly framed by its present so that most experiences you’ll have will touch upon its heritage in some way. Dining in an ancient Moorish bathhouse, trying your hand at an ancient style of music, and discovering the artistry, culture and bones (!) of past civilizations are just some of the memorable activities on offer.

Start planning what you'll do with our guide to Seville's best experiences.

1. Bask in the elegance of the Real Alcázar

One of the finest historic palaces in Europe can be found in the heart of Seville’s Barrio Santa Cruz. Started in the 10th century by the Moors, then later occupied and enlarged by the Spanish monarchs, the  Real Alcázar is a sprawling complex of elegant palaces, fountain-filled patios and regal quarters, which back onto a lavish garden oasis. The Palacio de Don Pedro, with its gold-tiled dome ceiling and exquisite geometric plasterwork designs is a highlight. While visiting the Real Alcázar, you’ll find plenty of chances to escape the crowds. Look for peacocks amid a maze of myrtle, marvel at an artesonado (decorative wooden ceilings) in one of the many side rooms, and take a seat in a shaded patio as a fountain gently burbles nearby.

Planning tip: Buy your tickets in advance from the only  official website . Entry is by allotted time only and tickets frequently sell out days in advance. Once inside the palace, you’re free to stay as long as you wish until closing. The earliest entry time is 9:30am. This also happens to be the most popular ticket, because it gives you access to the Real Alcázar when crowds are at their lowest.

2. Learn how to flamenco like a pro

Flamenco is a key part of the Andalucian experience. Rich in melody and emotion, flamenco isn’t just a style of music. It's a feeling, a lament through time, often in an intimate space where the nuances can really translate. These shared moments between the performers and the audience can often be intense and deeply moving.

Flamenco has four constituent parts: The toque (guitar) and the jaleo (crucial to the rhythm) form the musical foundation, on which the cante (song) and the baile (dance) are built. Palmas , the distinctive style of clapping, forms a part of the jaleo . Learn more about flamenco at the  Museo del Baile Flamenco . Take it one step further at the Taller Flamenco , where one-off classes and longer courses in flamenco guitar, clapping or singing can be taken with local experts.

Planning tip: There are at least a dozen theaters, known as tablaos , in Seville that hold nightly shows. And you might even catch an impromptu performance at many more spots around Seville, such as La Carbonería tavern.

3. Seek out Christopher Columbus’s tomb in Catedral de Sevilla

The  Catedral de Sevilla is often touted as the world’s largest Gothic cathedral. Indeed, Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, as it’s officially known, is one of those spaces that inspires great awe in all who enter. Lavish Gothic and baroque ornamentation, the Giralda bell tower, artworks by Goya and Zurbarán, and an intricate gold leaf-covered retablo all command the attention. So much so that one sight within sometimes goes unnoticed. A carved catafalque carried by four stout figures contains the tomb of Christopher Columbus. His interred remains were verified by DNA testing in 2006.

Planning tip: Climb the 35 ramps which ascend almost 100m (328ft) to the top of La Giralda tower in the morning when it’s cooler and there are fewer visitors. The views of Seville from the top are magnificent.

4. Stroll the walkway of the Metropol Parasol

One of Seville’s more unusual features is the  Metropol Parasol , a giant wooden lattice structure in the heart of Centro. Built in 2011, it soon developed the affectionate moniker Las Setas (the Mushrooms). The structure towers over much of the surrounding city and it’s possible to access a meandering walkway at the top via a lift. Tickets can be purchased in the lower concourse beneath the plaza shaded by Las Setas . While there, don’t miss the  Antiquarium , a series of Roman ruins and mosaic patios, which were discovered under the plaza during construction of Las Setas .

5. Dine on local tapas like a sevillano

Eating out in Seville is one of the true joys of traveling in the city. Classic tapas include solomillo al whisky (pork in whisky sauce) and salmorejo (a type of gazpacho made with tomatoes, bread and garlic), topped with ham and egg. The nearby Sierra de Aracena is known for its acorn-fed black pigs, which produce the celebrated jamón ibérico de bellota . Many tapas bars in the streets around the cathedral serve up these regional specialities along with a fascinating history of their own. Try Cerveceria Giralda Bar , set inside an old Moorish bathhouse, Casa Morales, known for its albondigas (meatballs), and Antigua Taberna de Las Escobas, a tapas bar in business since 1386.

By Andalucian standards (read: almost impossible to find vegan options), Seville enjoys a progressive culinary scene, with a variety of excellent tapas restaurants for vegetarians ( Petra , Taquería La Lupe, Levies) and vegans ( Veganí , Vegan Rock ).

6. Explore what's left of the Expo '92 site

Christopher Columbus set sail on his first voyage to the Americas in 1492. The 500-year anniversary was marked in Seville with Expo ’92, themed around "The Age of Discovery" and held on La Cartuja island. In the decades since, many of the pavilions were transformed or torn down, but some fascinating remnants include a replica of the Ariane 4 space rocket, a satellite, a giant globe called the Esfera Bioclimática, and a large Olmec-style stone head from the Pabellón de México. It makes for a fun and photogenic spot of urban exploration.

Planning tip: Rent a bicycle from one of the hundreds of Sevici docking stations or an e-scooter from Lime to reach La Cartuja faster. Use the network of green cycle lanes along the main roads to ensure a safer journey.

7. Experience Seville from the water

Kayak or SUP on the River Guadalquivir with a host of companies such as Kayak Sevilla  and Paddle Surf Sevilla . Shipping has largely gone from here these days but, while you float along, consider how this was the principal staging ground for expeditions to the New World in the 16th and 17th centuries. Ships loaded with Conquistadors and supplies would leave the quays along the banks of the river and return loaded with the loot, namely gold and silver, lifted from the Americas. The result was the rapid growth of a wealthy mercantile class who turned much of that wealth into the city’s ubiquitous baroque buildings and churches, richly adorned with lavish architecture and artworks that still constitute many of the city’s top sights.

You can also rent rowing boats in  Plaza de España to paddle along the D-shaped waterway that is enfolded by the C-shaped neo-Mudéjar building.

8. Gaze upon Seville’s Golden Age masterpieces

During the period known as Seville’s Golden Age during the 16th and 17th centuries, baroque art and architecture reached a new level of lavishness. Works by homegrown artists such as Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and Diego Velázquez can be found all over Seville, including at the  Hospital de los Venerables Sacerdotes and the cathedral. The largest collection is housed in the  Museo de Bellas Artes , alongside works of other greats such as El Greco and Goya.

9. Have a night out around the Alameda de Hércules

Roman columns mark the ends of the 370-m-long (1214ft-long) Alameda de Hércules , which is Seville’s premium nightlife hub. All manner of hangouts can be found in this zone, from the quirky 1987 Bar , where everything from the music to the framed memorabilia hails from the 1980s, to suave jazz performances at Gallo Rojo . The area is also the hub of the city's LGBTIQ+ scene, with plenty of great spots such as Alameda Ritual Club. Increasingly, the coolest bars are being priced out of the Alameda de Hércules and popping up along the nearby Calle Feria.

10. Imagine life as a gladiator at Itálica’s Roman amphitheater

Located northwest of downtown Seville by bus lies the ruined Roman city of Itálica . Two Roman emperors – Hadrian and Trajan – were born in the city, whose ruins feature a remarkable set of mosaic floors. But the highlight of the site is the vast 25,000-seat amphitheater, where well preserved corridors and crumbling stands still inflame the imagination.

Planning tip: Bus M170 (A or B) departs hourly from the Plaza de Armas bus station, stopping near the front gate of the Itálica ruins. The journey takes around 40 minutes.

11. Take a closer look at Seville’s baroque architecture

Gothic, Mudéjar, Mannerist, there are many fine examples of different architectural movements laced throughout Seville’s cityscape. But it is baroque architecture for which the city really stands out. Mostly created, and funded, during Seville’s Golden Age, the finest examples can be found in churches such as the  Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador . Here, extravagant altarpieces, layered in gold leaf, stretch to the domed ceiling. For a glimpse of a baroque church without the crowds, try the  Parroquia de Santa María Magdalena or the  Hospital de la Caridad .

Planning tip: If you also plan to visit the cathedral and La Giralda, you can save money by buying a combined entry ticket that includes Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador.

12. Tour a former tile factory in Triana

Long ago, Triana was a neighborhood devoted to one thing: ceramics. Many of the locals worked in the various potteries and factories where the city’s famed azulejos were manufactured. While pottery was made locally at least since Roman times, when clay from the riverbanks was used, it was in the 19th and early 20th centuries that the commercial enterprise was at its largest. Today, all the factories are closed, but one was converted into the  Centro Cerámica Triana , where you can discover some of the finest tiles, plus the evolution of design sensibilities through the ages.

13. Get lost in the historic streets

One of the best experiences offered by Seville is free and open to everybody: its historic neighborhood streets. Barrio Santa Cruz, in particular, is a warren of narrow cobblestone lanes, leading to orange tree-shaded plazas. Occasionally you’ll meet a stretch of the old city wall, marking the edge of the Real Alcázar, or come across the Baroque finery of a 16th-century church, before another alley beckons you onwards. The joy is in getting lost – you’ll always find a major landmark to set you back on track. The infrequent rain, even in winter, makes this a good year-round activity.

Planning tip: The old town of Seville is known as the Casco Viejo. It is formed of many smaller neighborhoods pierced by very few main roads. Chances are, if you reach a main road with more than one lane on either side, you’ve reached the edge of Casco Viejo.

14.  See bones amid religious relics

Spain’s religious fervor doesn’t get any more intense than when the bones of its most devoted practitioners are baked right into the church’s design. The Jesuits were considered extreme even by Spanish 18th-century Inquisition standards, and were expelled from Spain in 1767. But they left behind a work of incredible beauty in the  Iglesia de San Luis de los Franceses . Look closely at the church’s ornately carved four altarpieces and you will notice something rather familiar: human bones. These macabre reliquaries, dressed in flowers, are said to belong to saints and monks.

15. Celebrate like a sevillano at major annual festivals

If you want to experience Seville at its gaudiest and most upbeat, plan your trip to coincide with one of the major annual springtime festivals that transform the city. Celebrations begin at Easter with Holy Week (Semana Santa), which sees the scores of religious fraternities parade floats through the streets dressed in their distinctive conical hats. Two weeks later, the Feria de Abril puts Andalucian food and culture in the limelight. Needless to say, both festivals offer a chance to see a fresh face of the city, but it’s wise to book your accommodations well in advance.

This article was first published Mar 28, 2022 and updated Sep 4, 2024.

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14 Things to Do in Seville: How to Build a 2 Day Itinerary

This site contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Associates Program. At no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission off these links. They help fund this blog. Thanks for your support! See my Disclosure Policy  for more info.

Seville, or Sevilla, is one of the most gorgeous cities I’ve ever visited! As Andalusia’s capital and largest city, I think that beauty boils down to its Mudéjar style and Gothic and Renaissance elements. It’s one of those places that don’t feel quite real because of its beauty. To help you plan your 2 day Seville itinerary of this incredible city, I’ve listed the top things to do in Seville below.

⏳  Short on time?   My top recommendations for things to do in Seville:

🏨  Hotel:  Hotel Murillo

🗺️  Tours: Seville Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar Entry With Guided Tour , Casa de Pilatos , and the Palacio de las Duenas

📍 Recommended Day Trips: – Granada

📲 Must-Have Apps to Use: Maps.me and Currency Exchange

🗣️ Learn a Language: Spanish is spoken, though English is highly prevalent in tourist areas

🧳 Tips on Packing: For hostels and how to pack light

💡 Feel like you’ve forgotten something? Learn how to plan a trip on Google Docs and discover 37 things to do before an international trip

Table of Contents

Is Seville Worth Visiting?

If you didn’t figure that out from my gusting above or these incredible photographs, I’ll make it extremely clear—yes, Seville is worth visiting!

Seville is filled with places that make you feel like you’re on a film set—they’re so wondrous! Besides the amazing architecture, it’s the home of Flamenco and fantastic food!

Building a 2 Day Seville Itinerary

Is seville safe for solo travelers.

Yes! One of the things I took notice of while in Seville is just how safe they’ve made it. Now, of course, you should follow general safety rules anywhere you go. But even in the narrow alleyways of the Jewish Quarter at night, I felt safe and found them to be extremely well-lit.

When I got there, I wondered if it would be safe to explore at night solo because it is so narrow and windy. But I found the area to be bright and populated with other tourists, so I didn’t feel any sense of worry in Seville.

I was by myself during my entire 2 day Seville itinerary and never felt any unease, so I’d highly recommend it as a solo traveler destination.

Is 2 Days Enough to See Seville?

2 days is enough to see Seville. However, I tend to move fast and wound up using my third day in Seville to head over to Granada , so if you like to travel at a slower pace, then I suggest 3 days in Seville. But yes, you can see a lot of Seville in 2 days.

I should note, however, that I visited in the fall of 2021, so travel was just bouncing back. It may be busier now than when I visited, especially if you’re going during the busy season. So, if you’re worried, I suggest 3 days in Seville .

Where to Stay in Seville

I stayed at the Hotel Murillo in Barrio Santa Cruz, the Jewish Quarter of Seville. It is the tourist center of Seville and is defined by its narrow alleyways and old-world charm.

I originally chose to stay in this section of Seville because it’s close to many of the sites I planned to see, such as the Alcázar, the Giralda Tower, and the Seville Cathedral. This makes it a really convenient part of town to stay in.

While all that is true, it’s also just a lovely part of Seville to stay in. Not only was the Hotel Murillo a great place to stay because it was clean, comfortable, and safe, but it also featured a rooftop terrace where I could relax in the evening while overlooking the city. They also had a bar and lounge. Lastly, the staff was helpful. I highly recommend staying here during your 2 day Seville itinerary.

Click here for the latest prices.

Top Things to Do in Seville

Seville cathedral.

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, aka the  Seville Cathedral , is a Catholic cathedral and former mosque. It was registered in 1987 by  UNESCO  as a World Heritage Site, along with the adjoining Alcázar Palace complex and the General Archive of the Indies.

As Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic church and one of the largest churches in the world, it’s one of my top things to do in Seville. After its completion in the early 16th century, it supplanted  Hagia Sophia  as the largest cathedral in the world, a title the Byzantine church had held for a thousand years.

Christopher Columbus’ grave is one of the most notable things you’ll find in the Seville Cathedral. Though, not all of him.

Columbus’s remains were first buried at the Chapel of Wonders at the  Convent of St. Francis, Valladolid , but were then moved to the  monastery of La Cartuja  in Seville by the will of his son Diego. They were then exhumed and interred at the Seville Cathedral.

In about 1536, the remains of both Columbus and Diego were moved to a cathedral in  Colonial Santo Domingo , in the present-day Dominican Republic; Columbus had requested to be buried on the island. By some accounts, in 1793, when France took over Hispaniola, Columbus’s remains were moved to Havana, Cuba. But after Cuba became independent following the Spanish–American War in 1898, some of these remains were transferred back to Seville Cathedral, where they were placed on an elaborate coffin that you can see today.

I went on a Get Your Guide tour of Seville Cathedral, Giralda Bell Tower, and the Alcázar, which is unfortunately no longer available, but the one I’ve listed below is similar.

Itinerary Info for Seville Cathedral

Buying online for a reduced rate. Tickets allow free admission to the Church of El Salvador. You can get an audioguide for €5.00 or book a guided tour for an additional fee

(as of Aug 2024)

Book Activities & Tours:

Giralda Bell Tower

When you approach Seville Cathedral, the Giralda Bell Tower will be hard to miss. Although it’s part of the cathedral, it’s treated as separate. It looms over Seville at 105 m (343 ft) tall.

The Giralda is the former minaret of the mosque that stood on the site under Muslim rule. It was built to resemble the minaret of the  Koutoubia Mosque  in Marrakech, Morocco. After the Reconquista, it was converted into a bell tower for the cathedral, although the topmost section dates from the Renaissance.

If you have any issues with stairs, then this is the perfect tower for you! Because it was built with ramps rather than stairs. Why? Way back when the sultan ordered 35 ramps to be built instead of steps so that the muezzin (a man who calls Muslims to prayer from the minaret of a mosque) could ride a horse to the top to recite the Adhan.

There are no stairs or elevators, but one long ramp up and up the tower, which honestly made it much, much easier to get up. I highly recommend heading up, as it provides a lovely view over Seville. It’s definitely an activity to add to your list of things to do in Seville.

Itinerary Info for Giralda Bell Tower

As a ticket to Seville Cathedral covers the Giralda Bell Tower, please see advice above

Alcazar de Sevilla

Alright, I’ll be honest with you. I was most excited about the Alcázar of Seville because I had seen it on Game of Thrones . I just hoped it was as beautiful as the show portrayed it. And let me tell you, it is that gorgeous.

The Alcázar of Seville, officially called the Royal Alcázar of Seville, is a historic royal palace, making it a must-see on your list of things to do in Seville.

It was formerly the site of the Islamic-era citadel of the city, begun in the 10th century. However, other dynasties have redeveloped it several times over the centuries into a larger palace complex. After the  Castilian  conquest of 1248, the site was progressively rebuilt and replaced by new palaces and gardens. Among the most important is a richly decorated  Mudéjar-style  palace built by  Pedro I  during the 1360s.

When the royal family visits Seville, they still occupy the upper stories of the Alcázar. However, tourists are allowed to tour the lower levels and gardens.

I went on a Get Your Guide tour of Seville Cathedral, Giralda Bell Tower, and the Alcázar, which is unfortunately no longer available, but the one I’ve listed below is similar. After giving us the historical overview of the Alcázar, our guide allowed us to wander and take photos, which I appreciated.

Itinerary Info for the Alcazar de Sevilla

You can enter for free Monday from 18:00 to 19:00 from April to September and from 16:00 to 17:00 from October to March

Plaza de Espana / Parque de Maria Luisa

The Plaza de España is a plaza in the Parque de María Luisa. It was built in 1928 for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.

It features a “Moorish paradisical style” with tiled fountains, pavilions, walls, ponds, benches, palms, orange trees, Mediterranean pines, and stylized flower beds. Several buildings were constructed in the park to provide spaces for the exhibition.

Nowadays, it’s a great place to take Instagram photos or check out the local scene. I saw Flamenco dancers performing while I was there. If you’re more bookish, each alcove is flanked by a pair of covered bookshelves, now used by visitors as a “Little Free Library.”

If you’re looking for something to skip on this things to do in Seville list, this may be it, as it’s further away than some of the other sites on this 2 day Seville itinerary.

Itinerary Info for the Plaza de Espana / Parque de Maria Luisa

La Casa de Pilatos

The Casa de Pilatos was built in the 16th century by order of Don Pedro Enriquez and later by his son Fadrique Enriques de Ribera. As one of the most beautiful palaces in Seville and one of the best-preserved buildings from the 16th century, it’s a must on your list of things to do in Seville.

The “House of Pilatos ” is named after the house of Pontius Pilate, which they tried to emulate as Fadrique Enriques de Ribera was inspired by during his pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Different styles, such as Gothic, Mudéjar, and Italian Renaissance styles, were combined in the construction of this palace. This is evident as you walk through, as you’ll see patios with fountains featuring busts of Roman emperors and Greek gods.

The palace also features marble columns, ceiling paintings, large wooden doors, mudéjar tiles (which took me back to the National Tile Museum in Lisbon ), chapels, and an Italian-style garden.

This palace is still partly inhabited and is the residence of the 18th Duchess of Medinacelli and her family. It’s hard to imagine people living in such old-world luxury today, but it’s true!

Itinerary Info for the Casa de Pilatos

There’s a ground floor and upper floor ticket, to visit the upper floor, you need to buy the ground floor ticket as well. There’s a free audioguide included in the ticket cost

Palacio de las Duenas

The Palacio de las Dueñas is a palace currently belonging to the  House of Alba . It was built in the late 15 th  century in the Renaissance style with Gothic and Moorish influences. The palace is one of the city’s major historic homes, making it a must on my list of things to do in Seville.

As an ornate estate, it is one of the most visited monuments in Seville. Its mixed style resembles  Casa de Pilatos and Casa de los Pinelo. However, suppose I were to pick one over another to visit during a 2 day Seville itinerary. In that case, I’d choose the Palacio de las Dueñas as it’s a more extensive and decorative home.

Its main attraction is an extensive decorative art collection containing 1,425 artifacts. There are Italian and Spanish paintings from the 16 th  and 17 th centuries, as well as a watercolor by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, painted during her visit in 1960 when she stayed in the bedroom once used by France’s Empress  Eugénie de Montijo .

The Palacio de las Dueñas also has a significant collection of antique furniture, ceramics, sculptures, Flemish tapestries of the 16 th  and 17 th  centuries, mosaics, and many other art pieces.

Itinerary Info for the Palacio de las Duenas

You can do a general visit with an audioguide, a guided night tour , or even listen to opera at the palace. Tickets are €1 on select Monday afternoons

Torre Del Oro

The Torre del Oro, aka the “Tower of Gold,” is a 36-meter-high (118-foot) tower that was built by the Almohads in the 12th century and was part of the Moorish city wall, which ran between the Alcazar Palace and the rest of Seville.

The tower’s purpose was to control shipping on the Guadalquivir River. A heavy chain ran underwater from the massive tower to the other side to prevent enemy ships from sailing past.

The name “Golden” tower refers to Andalusia’s prosperous period during their control of the Latin American colonies. When ships entered, they could discharge their gold cargo here. In addition to being built for storage, the middle part of the tower is a prison.

A maritime museum, the Museo Naval, is now located on the top floor of the Torre del Oro. This small museum displays antique shipping instruments, scale models, and sea maps.

When I visited, I didn’t enter the museum but just viewed the tower. However, if you’re interested in naval history, add this to your 2 day Seville itinerary. Otherwise, I’d skip this on the list of things to do in Seville.

Itinerary Info for the Torre del Oro

Free admission on Mondays, but advance booking is required

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Things to Do in Seville at Night

See a flamenco performance.

Something a lot of people forget about when planning an itinerary is thinking about what you’ll do at night. I lucked into this experience as I walked through the Jewish Quarter in Seville and got stopped by some Flamenco dancers promoting a performance that night.

Unfortunately, I can’t pinpoint where I visited. I tried to compare photos on Google Maps to the photos I took but didn’t see any matches. However, I know whatever place you go to in Seville to see a Flamenco performance will be extraordinary, as this is the home of Flamenco.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the performance, as they were incredible performers, and I highly recommend adding it to your list of things to do in Seville.

Check Out a Rooftop Bar

I headed to the Pura Vida Terraza rooftop bar in Seville after reading about it in this post on the best rooftop bars in Seville . It has a fantastic view of the Giralda Bell Tower, which I highly recommend checking out during your 2 day Seville itinerary.

It’s described as a “lively, casual rooftop cocktail spot with a pool, plus beer, wine & elevated pub fare.” While there were no performances while I was there, their website lists Flamenco performances, so make sure to check their calendar before arriving.

As I was traveling solo and showed up early, I had no trouble snagging a table. However, I could see it getting busy on a performance night or later in the day.

Additional Things to Do in Seville

We have now come to the things to do in Seville that I didn’t accomplish because I decided to head off to Granada . However, I wanted to list them in case you had more time during your 2 day Seville itinerary than I had.

1. Iglesia El Salvador  – The second-largest church in Seville, after the city’s cathedral. Renovations from 1674 to 1712 resulted in the lofty Baroque edifice overlooking Plaza del Salvador we see today.

2. Museum of Flamenco Dance —Located in the heart of Seville, this museum allows visitors to discover Flamenco’s unique and singular world in all its facets.

3. Archaeological Museum  – The archaeological museum houses treasures found in the province, dating from prehistoric times, Roman times, and the Medieval Moorish period.

4. Setas de Sevilla — Setas de Sevilla or Las Setas, initially titled Metropol Parasol, is a large, predominantly wood structure located at La Encarnación Square.

Where to Eat in Seville

My favorite restaurant in Seville was La Bartola ! So much so that I visited not once but twice! I stumbled upon it as it was just down the street from my hotel. It’s a cute place tucked into the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter.

Described as an “Easygoing, vibrant restaurant offering tapas & Spanish dishes, with vegan & vegetarian options.” I can’t quite recall what I ate, but I know I had their chocolate cake, and after visiting Lisbon and hearing how good their chocolate supposedly was, La Bartola blew it out of the water.

La Carboneria Bar

This bar is located on one of the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter and is described as a “Tavern of tapas with flamenco performances in an old coal warehouse with a patio & tiled floor.”

Here, you can see a Flamenco performance for free, as they are held continuously from 9:30 pm onwards. The only condition is that you have to have a drink.

It is popular, so I recommend you arrive early to get a seat. The performances last about 25 minutes and are repeated every 20 minutes.

El Torno Pasteleria de Conventos

This tiny shop is located next door to the Seville Cathedral and offers traditional cakes, cookies, and sweets made by resident nuns. I recall walking through an arched walkway to get there and seeing it tucked into the arcade.

While I don’t recall being overwhelmed by the taste of their offerings, I recommend visiting El Torno , as it’s one of those unique things to do in Seville.

Final Thoughts on Things to See in Seville

Do you have any questions about these things to do in Seville I’ve listed? If so, or you have any comments on this 2 day Seville itinerary, please feel free to comment below.

Want to remember this? Pin this 14 Things to Do in Seville: How to Build a 2 Day Itinerary article to your favorite Pinterest board!

Michelle is a nerdy wanderluster with a love of history. A thirty-something occasional solo female traveler who you’ll find road-tripping across the United States or hostel-hopping in Europe. She currently resides in Southern California and is writing an action-adventure novel.

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