How to Make the Most of Your 5 Days in Seville (2024)
You’ll be happy to know that 5 days in Seville, the incredible capital city of Andalucía, is a perfect amount of time to see the best of Seville, find the quirky side of Seville and take a day trip or two if you’re so inclined. With 5 days in Seville you won’t feel rushed and you’ll be able to enjoy long tapas breaks and lazy glasses of wine or sangria in the sun.
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5 Days in Seville Itinerary Notes
Seville is often considered to be the most beautiful city in southern Spain. Its beauty is in not only the gorgeous buildings and its long history but also in the fact that the city is fairly small, which makes it easy enough to walk between tourist attractions.
Seville is a perfect destination for a city break, as part of a longer road trip around southern Spain or as a side trip from the incredible capital city of Madrid.
🔆 Seville’s climate and siesta culture should both be taken into account when planning a trip. It is always worth checking the opening hours for the places you want to visit as there is little conformity between attractions or between seasons. Many places will close during the afternoon and then reopen in the evening.
🍽 Meal times: In Andalucia, the biggest meal of the day is lunch, which is taken between 2 pm – 4 pm. In Seville, you’ll always be able to find somewhere to eat something but between 4 pm – 8 pm many bars and restaurants will be closed so you’ll need to be flexible. People start coming out again to eat around 9 pm and it’s perfectly normal to see groups eating at 11 pm.
🛝 If you’re coming to Seville with kids then this article will still come in handy but I highly recommend you also read my articles dedicated to finding the fun for kids in Seville and in Andalucía as they do offer far more specific kids friendly activities. If you’re coming to Seville with teens in tow then you’ll be wanting to find activities they’ll enjoy too.
🎟 Seville is a very popular destination for tourists and as such it is always recommended to book tickets to the main attractions in advance. If you don’t, you risk missing out or spending a long time waiting in line for the potential of a last minute ticket.
➡️ How many days do you need in Seville?
➡️ If you only have 3 days in Seville, never fear, I planned an excellent itinerary for you.
➡️ And the same goes if you only have 1 day in Seville, too.
🚍 Do you need help figuring out how to get to Seville from the airport?
⭐️One excellent time and money saving trick to exploring Seville is to pick up the handy Seville Pass before you travel.
The pass includes
🚌 the Seville airport transfer bus or the city’s hop-on hop-off tourist bus
🏰 the Real Alcazar tickets
🔔 / 🐠 either the Cathedral or the Aquarium tickets
🎧 a downloadable Seville city audio-guide
💰10% off other attractions in Seville (via Tiqets)
Where to stay in Seville
⭐️ The MexicoCassie hotel recommendations for Seville are the classic Hotel Alfonso XIII and the quirky Hotel Las Casas de la Judería. If neither of these hotels suit your needs, though, you can use my useful interactive map to find your perfect accommodation.
5 days in Seville – your perfect itinerary
Day 1 in Seville – Culture day
Morning – Begin your first day on the gorgeous Plaza de España
✅ All around the building are 48 tiled alcoves each representing a Spanish province (except for Seville which is featured elsewhere and one of the Canary Island provinces which didn’t exist in 1928). Each has a mural and a map of the province. Exploring these gorgeous alcoves is a perfect place to begin your first day in Seville.
✅ You will see four bridges in the courtyard; these represent the four ancient kingdoms of Spain: Castile, Léon, Aragon, and Navarre. The bridges traverse a 500 m-long canal and it’s possible to rent small boats and row along here. Because of this canal it’s sometimes called the Venice of Seville.
✅ Many of the buildings are government offices but the Military History Museum is housed there too.
➕ The gorgeous Plaza de España is one of the many reasons people choose to visit Seville when deciding between Seville and Valencia for their vacation.
What to do at the Plaza de España
📌 Enjoy strolling around, checking out the gorgeous murals and tiles. You might even happen upon an impromptu flamenco show.
📌 If you’re so inclined, hire a boat and row around the canal.
📌 Climb the stairs and enjoy the views.
📌 Find out how to make the Plaza de España fun for kids
From here head into Maria Luisa Park
📌 Take a stroll through Parque Maria Luisa and if you’re into horse-drawn carriages, this is one place to pick them up. The park is around 100 acres of paths, gardens, and patios. I love spending an hour or so just relaxing here especially when green parrots fly overhead. See if you can find Monté Gurugú (a small artificial hill) to climb.
➕ Bonus Activities: The Museo de Artes y Costumbres is in the park: On the other side of this park is the Archaeological Museum and if you’re visiting with kids, the Seville Aquarium is nearby, as is the excellent Casa de la Ciencia.
Lunch :There aren’t many restaurants around the Plaza de España so, consider walking along the river towards the city center to find a tapas bar when you’re ready.
Afternoon: Palacio or museum time
Depending on your interests, consider checking out either the Museo del Baile Flamenco, the Palacio de las Dueñas or Casa de Pilatos. All are beautiful palaces in Seville that will wow your senses. I particularly adore the gardens of Palacio de las Dueñas.
Evening: Las Setas and drinks
Visit “Las Setas”, officially called the Metropol Parasol. This is Europe’s biggest wooden structure and it sits over the Plaza La Encarnación, a popular place for locals to meet for drinks and tapas in the evening.
Be sure to take the elevator up to the top of Las Setas after dark as the whole structure is lit up beautifully, and the views over Seville are wonderful.
Day 2 in Seville – More culture
Morning – Real Alcázar de Sevilla
Begin your second day with a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Real Alcázar of Seville and its beautiful gardens.
⭐️ My recommendation is to book onto the Exclusive Walks Early Access tour. Every day the Alcazar allows just two groups of up to 20 people to enter before it opens to the general public.
I have been part of the “general public”, one of the 7000 people that visit the Alcazar every. single. day. And I have been one of the “exclusive tour members”. I can tell you that there is simply nothing like exploring the Alcazar when it’s still peaceful and quiet.
📸 You see that photo of the Patio de Doncellas (Maidens’ Courtyard) above? I took that photo when there was no one else there. There is almost a zero chance of recreating that photo once the Alcazar is open to the general public.
Important information for visiting the Real Alcazar of Seville
If you don’t want to get up early for the early access tour then you can still buy your tickets:
or
➡️ you can risk waiting until you’re in Sevilla and buying on the day at the ticket office, which is located on Plaza del Patio de Banderas.
⎆ Once you have a ticket, head towards Plaza del Triunfo and the cathedral. Turn left and join the line for entrance into the Alcazar.
If you’re hoping for a reduced ticket based on your age you will need to bring a valid ID.
📌 Brief history of the Alcazar
The beautiful Alcazar of Seville was originally built by the Moorish rulers of Spain but was adapted and modified by the Catholic Monarchs when they conquered Seville (1248). Today it is considered one of the best examples of Mudéjar (blended Moorish and Christian) architecture in the world. Along with the cathedral and the Archivo de Indias, the Alcazar is part of the Seville UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The first fortified building on this site has been dated to the early eighth century during the Caliphate of Córdoba. In 913, Abd al-Rahman III built a fort here, apparently over the remains of a Visigoth church (the Visigoths ruled over much of Spain from the decline of the Roman Empire in Spain to the time the Moors arrived).
In the twelfth century, the Almohad rulers established their capital in Seville and built new palaces on this site. However, in 1248, Seville was taken by the Catholic Monarchs (los Reyes Catolicos) and the Alcazar became their primary residence.
✅ As you tour the Alcazar you won’t want to miss:
- Patio de las Doncellas – The Maiden’s Courtyard. This is the main shebang in the Alcazar. Here you’ll find the main courtyard with the reflecting pool, sunken gardens and gorgeous arches. It’ll also likely be full of other people unless you take the early morning access tour.
- Patio de Leviés – fewer people find their way to this patio where there is a less grandiose pool than on the Patio de las Doncellas. I loved it here.
- Patio de las Muñecas – Dolls Courtyard. A private courtyard in the palace – see if you can find the dolls in the carvings. I’ve only ever found 2.
- Salon de Embajadores (Ambassadors’ Hall or the Throne Room) – this is the biggest and most impressive room in the whole palace. Don’t forget to look up and see the half-orange dome, referred to as the Mudejar version of the Sistine Chapel.
- Salon de los Tapices – Tapestry Room
- Tile Exhibition
- Baños de Doña Maria de Padilla – a striking underground crypt filled with water.
- The Gardens – for me, the gardens were more interesting than the palace but that’s entirely because I don’t adore intricate and fussy architecture but I do love trees and plants. But do leave yourself time to visit the gardens because they are beautiful. And if you can, climb the stairs up to the Galleria de Grutesco for gorgeous views over the gardens.
Lunch: When you leave the Alcázar you’ll find yourself in the bustling heart of the old city of Seville. Take a stroll around, pick a tapas bar and enjoy lunch.
Focus on: Tapas Bars
If you want to eat like the locals, order a tapa or two for the table, a copa de vino tinto and take your time, relish life in the sun and relax. If you enjoy the food, order more. If you don’t, simply move on to the next tapas restaurant that takes your fancy.
And know that should you wish to order a whole meal of tapas all at once, that’s fine too. You’ll also often see three sizes for plates – tapa (small), 1/2 racion and racion – so you can still order yourself your own meal should you wish to do so.
Afternoon – Wander Seville’s Jewish Quarter
📍 If you have the energy for more impressive buildings then the Seville Cathedral & La Giralda (Bell Tower) are right by the Alcazar. The cathedral and the Archivo de Indias, along with the Alcazar, make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Seville. A part of Christopher Columbus was buried within this cathedral.
➕ Just as it’s a good idea to pre-book to visit the Alcazar, it’s also a good idea to pre-book for the cathedral.
If you don’t feel like visiting the cathedral, use this time to explore the narrow streets of Seville’s ancient Jewish Quarter (Barrio Santa Cruz).
Focus on Seville’s Jewish Quarter
Brief History: Just as elsewhere in Spain (think Segovia, Córdoba, Granada), when the Catholic kings took Seville from the Moors they confined the Jewish population to specific areas before eventually expelling them in 1492. Seville’s Jewish quarter fell into disrepair and was only restored in the nineteenth century.
What to Expect/See in Seville’s Jewish Quarter
Today this is a bustling area of Seville full of gorgeous and fascinating narrow streets, artisan stores and restaurants.
✅ It would be interesting, of course, to do a walking tour of this area. If you haven’t already, then I highly recommend you walk along Calle Agua and Calle Judería until you reach Plaza Patio de Banderas. This is my favourite place to walk in all of Seville.
✅ Hotel Las Casas de la Judería – my parents stayed here so I was lucky enough to be able to explore this veritable rabbit warren of buildings and patios. The hotel has 134 rooms around 40 patios, gardens, tunnels and paths. This hotel is really an old city that has been converted into one of the most interesting hotels you’ll ever find. If you can afford to stay here even one night I highly recommend it.
Evening
Photo kindly provided by Devour Tours
Take a late afternoon stroll along the river, ensuring you see the Torre del Oro.
⭐️ If you’re looking for the perfect flamenco experience, then a Devour Tapas & Flamenco evening tour could be exactly what you’re looking for. The tour visits 2 tapas bars where you’ll try 8 different tapas plates (enough for a full meal) and drinks. You learn all about flamenco prior to watching a fabulous performance.
I was invited by Devour Tours to take this tour and I have to be honest and say that before I took it, I was fairly ambivalent about flamenco. Now, having witnessed a truly excellent show, and learned about the dance and the traditions within it, I can’t wait to go to more shows and learn more. I fell in love. You can read about my experience here.
Focus on Hotel Alfonso XIII
This is one of the most exclusive hotels in Seville. The Sunday brunch is exquisite but if you aren’t in town on a Sunday, consider finding another opportunity to eat in this fabulous hotel.
Day 3 in Seville – See Seville’s quirky side
Your third day is a quirky walking day in Seville. You’re going to get away from the amazing yet touristy center of the city and see another side of Seville entirely.
Depending on where you’re staying, start your day from either Puente de la Barqueta or from Puente de Isabel II (in Triana).
📌 (If this doesn’t appeal, perhaps book a tour or a cooking class or find a nearby day-trip to replace it with. See below for day trip suggestions)
Morning
☕️ Begin your day with breakfast at either one of the many cafes in Triana or in the Mercado de Triana.
After breakfast, explore the ceramic shops of Triana and stroll towards the Torre Sevilla and the Torre Schindler.
Torre Sevilla – here you’ll find an outdoor mall. It’s possible to have drinks at the top of this tower for great views over the city.
Torre Schindler – this is an observation deck (open ever day except Mondays) that offers great views over the city too.
Parque Fernando Magallanes – this gentle riverside park is popular with locals who enjoy a spot of fishing. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, bring a picnic or simply walk through the park, past the Pabellon de Navegacion (check the website to see what exhibitions are hosted while you’re in town).
Isla de la Cartuja
This small area along the banks of the Guadalquivir River barely registers with non-locals but it’s a gorgeous spot to spend the day. There are no food options so I recommend stopping in at the supermarket by the Torre Sevilla for snacks and water to get you through to the next meal opportunity.
Centro Andaluz del Arte Contemporáneo
This magnificent art gallery is housed in a former monastery. Since very few people know about it, you’ll pretty much have the place to yourself as you explore the exhibitions and incredible buildings.
From here we enter abandoned Expo ’92 territory. If you enjoy seeing only the very best a city has to offer then maybe this next section isn’t for you. If, however, you are interested in seeing a different side of Seville, you will find this a joy.
Pabellon de la Naturaleza
Along the river, the park and paths continue but at this point they stop being quite so manicured. First stop is the abandoned wooden structure that offers shade to a selection of plants, and some concrete waterfalls. It’s very peaceful but you have to be willing to look for the beauty here.
Carry on into the Jardín Americano and onto the Pasarela for views across the area. This park turns into the Jardines del Guadalquivir, which follow the river all the way to Seville’s theme park, Isla Magica.
Jardines del Guadalquivir
The gardens, along with everything else in this area, were created for Expo ’92. Take your time to explore this (admittedly) fairly run down park. There’s an abandoned maze in the center, and you can see the Ariane 4 rocket and a satellite that are on display here.
It’s possible, with a reservation, to visit the General Archives to learn more about the Expo. And don’t miss the now abandoned Torre ABC, looking forlorn and unloved but still gorgeous.
This is a completely different side of the city and one I was personally extremely excited to find.
Hot air balloon ride – Nao Vigía
If you’re in this area on a weekend, I highly recommend the Nao Vigía, a tethered hot air balloon ride up into the sky above Sevilla. It is located in the Isla Magica theme park but is open even when the park is shut for winter. The experience lasts just under 30 minutes in total and offers some really great views over the city and surrounding area.
Don’t miss checking out the Pabellón de Hungría while you’re here. It, too, is left over from the Expo but has recently been restored and looks absolutely fabulous.
From here, I recommend calling an uber or a taxi and heading back into central Sevilla as you’ll probably be hungry and tired.
Day 4 in Seville – Take a day trip
It’s time for a day trip so depending on your preferences and transport options, let’s consider the most popular destinations.
🚗 Check rental car prices and availability
Cordoba
Famous for: Mezquita (the cathedral-mosque), Patio de Naranjos, Roman Bridge, Alcazar and much more.
⭐️ Top recommended tour to Cordoba from Seville
➡️ Read more about visiting Cordoba
➡️ Read more about how to plan your day trip to Córdoba from Seville
Distance from Seville
🚂 1hr from Sevilla Santa Justa train station – Check prices and timetables here
🚗 1h30 (145km)
Cádiz
Famous for: gorgeous city beach, history, walking the promenade, great sea food
⭐️ Top recommended tour to Cádiz from Seville
➡️ Read more about visiting Cádiz Province and taking a day trip to Cádiz city
Distance from Seville
🚂 1hr40 from Sevilla Santa Justa train station – Check prices and timetables here
🚗 1hr10 (120km)
Granada
Famous for: The Alhambra, winding Arabic style streets, Sierra Nevada
⭐️ Top recommended tour from Seville
🛝 Read more about visiting Granada with kids and check out this easy to follow 2 day Granada itinerary
Distance from Seville
🚂 2hr30 from Sevilla Santa Justa train station – Check prices and timetables here
🚗 2hr30
Malaga
Famous for: Picasso Museum, Alcazaba, Castillo de Gibralfaro, beaches
Distance from Seville
🚂 2hr from Sevilla Santa Justa train station – – Check prices and timetables here
🚗 2hr30 (230km)
If you’re wondering about whether to visit Seville or Malaga, consider what you’re expecting from your vacation. Malaga is home to a surprising amount of history and some wonderful museums but it’s also often extremely crowded. Its primary draw is its beaches and proximity to the famous pueblos blancos. Seville is primarily known for its rich history, but it’s also a fabulous base for exploring the region. Both are excellent foodie cities.
Ronda
Famous for: The Tajo Gorge splits the ancient city of Ronda. Visit to marvel at its beauty and to see the 3 bridges, wine tastings and good food.
Distance from Seville
🚂 2hr30 from Prado de San Sebastian – Check prices and timetables here
🚗 1hr45 (130km)
Roman ruins at Italica
Famous for: being the first Roman city built in Spain. Good for an easy hour or two trip outside of Seville.
🚗 20 minutes (12 km)
Alcalá de Guadaíra
Famous for: its fabulous forest-park and walking along the medieval mill route along the river, Puente del Dragon
Distance from Seville
🚗 20 minutes (15 km)
Other excellent day trip options from Seville
Aracena – visit the castle, the famous cave, Gruta de las Maravillas and enjoy the gorgeous small town
Antequera – go hiking in the Torcal de Antequera or visit the dolmens and their excellent visitors’ centre
Huelva City – visit the excellent museum, walk on the Muelle de Rio Tinto, see replicas of Columbus’ ships
Gibraltar – climb to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, see the Barbary Apes, and look over to Africa
Day 5 in Seville – Tying up loose ends
On your final day in Seville, use the time to wander the streets, feast on more tapas and pick up the much needed souvenirs to take home.
If you haven’t yet visited the India Archives you could do so today (it’s free), or if you didn’t visit the cathedral on day 2, then take a few hours from your final day to visit this gorgeous Gothic cathedral and to climb La Giralda for incredible views over the city.
If you have a full day on day 5 in Seville, why not visit whichever of the tourist sites you didn’t manage to visit on days one and two.
✈️ On your way to Seville airport you could also stop at the gorgeous city of Carmona for a walk and lunch.
When is the Best Time to Visit Seville?
🌸 Spring – The climate is delightful at this time of year. The orange trees and the jacaranda trees are in blossom and in my opinion, this is the most perfect time to be in Seville due to the beauty that is these trees. If you enjoy processions and parties then spring is also a good time to visit as you’ll be able to experience the Semana Santa (holy week) parades. Seville’s Feria is also held in spring every year. In 2025 it is set for 5 – 11 May.
☀️ Summer – Truthfully, calling Seville hot is an understatement. During the summer it can feel as if you’re melting if you’re on the streets between 10 am – 10 pm. If you do come in summer, be prepared to take it slower and use my guide to Seville in the summer to help you make the most of your time. Many locals leave in summer, and for good reason.
🍁 Autumn – As the days cool down Seville starts to get lively again and you can have a great time exploring this beautiful city. In 2024, Seville’s ‘Noche en Blanco’ will return with free evening activities spread across the city.
🧤 Winter – Winters in Seville are surprisingly damp and cold although if you’re out walking and exploring all day then this really won’t matter too much, Generally, there is very little rain and plenty of sunshine even in the winter.
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