3 Days in Seville: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Timers (+ Map!)

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Seville is a destination that’s at the top of the wish list for many travelers, and deservedly so. Our 3 days in Seville itinerary will help you discover the city’s many fabulous landmarks while savoring its lively ambience.

The Andalusian capital boasts magnificent architecture, loads of history, and gorgeous gardens. Its top-rated tapas bars will tickle your taste buds. Its fiery flamenco shows will set your feet to tapping. And its historic neighborhoods will draw you in with their character and charm.

In short, Seville is a must on any Spain itinerary!

Three days in Seville is barely enough, because there are so many things to see and do in Seville. But if that’s all the time you have, rest assured that you can still pack a lot into your three-day Seville itinerary!

The Plaza de Espana is one of Seville's top attractions.
Seville’s magnificent Plaza de Espana

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Our three-day Seville travel guide is designed for active travelers that don’t mind clocking up the walking miles, but you can pick and choose from our suggestions to design a more laid-back experience, if that’s your preference.

Our Seville itinerary assumes that you will arrive the evening before, so you will have three full days (and four nights) in this magnificent city.

On your day of arrival, I suggest just checking in, relaxing over a drink and some tapas, and getting a good night’s sleep. The next three days will be busy in a fun way!

The Ideal 3-Day Seville Itinerary

Whether you are planning a weekend city break in Seville, or you’ve scheduled 3 days in Seville as part of a larger Spain itinerary, you’ll be spoiled for choice on Seville attractions to include in your itinerary.

Here is our suggested itinerary for your three days in Seville!

Day 1 or Your 3 Days in Seville: The Royal Alcázar of Seville

Start at the Real Alcázar, the royal palace-fortress of Seville. The Alcázar is one of Seville’s must-see historical sites, and should be at the top of your list of the best things to do in Seville!

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Real Alcázar is a stunning example of the Mudèjar architectural style and one of Seville’s best sights.

Mudèjar is a combination of Moorish and Christian influences. You will see the striking use of brick, metal, wood, plaster, and tile.

Mudejar architecture at the Alcazar in Seville Spain
Beautiful lacy arches in a courtyard at the Royal Alcázar

You will view room after room of absolutely marvelous detail and workmanship in this beautiful palace complex.

The lace-like intricately patterned arches at the Courtyard of the Maidens are gorgeous. You will find a formal reflecting pool here as well.

Don’t miss the ornate Salon de Embajadores and the beautiful tapestries in the Salon de los Tapices.

Interior Royal Alcazar Seville
Intricate work decorates interior walls
Interior Royal Alcazar Seville
The ornate interior of the Seville Alcázar
Interior Royal Alcazar Seville
Wood and metal work in the Royal Alcazar
Tapestry at the Royal Alcazar in Seville Spain
Part of a large tapestry in the Hall of Tapestries

After you tour the buildings, stroll around the lovely formal gardens.

Beds of colorful flowers are hemmed in with geometric hedges. Palms reach up towards the sky. Beautiful architectural elements abound in the gardens.

Courtyard Royal Alcazar Seville Spain
Roses bloom in a pretty courtyard
Formal hedges in the gardens of the Alcazar in Seville Spain
Formal hedges and beautiful architecture in the gardens
Gardens of the Alcazar in Seville Spain
Palm trees and architecture in the Alcazar gardens

The orangerie is awash with fragrance if you visit when the citrus blossom is in bloom. Jasmine and rose clamber up trellises and pretty sculptures sit amid water features.

Orangerie at Seville Alcazar in Spain
The orangerie smells heavenly when the citrus is in bloom!

Allow at least three hours. There is a cafe within the complex, should you need a break and some refreshment.

The tour of the Cuarto Real Alto, the royal apartments, is highly recommended.

Night visits are also offered, but you cannot see the gardens well at night. On the plus side, the night tour has costumed artists recounting the history of the Alcázar through song, dance, and storytelling as you move through the beautifully lit interiors. All in Spanish though! During the summertime, concerts are offered in the evenings.

If you go: Real Alcázar de Sevilla, Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Like a structured tour? Book this highly rated 3-hour skip-the-line guided tour of the Alcazar, the Seville Cathedral, and La Giralda!

Or pick a tour of just the Alcazar, so you can linger for as long as you like after the tour!

A tour is an excellent way to see Seville’s most magnificent sight. There is a lot to see and absorb, and if you are a history, art, or architecture enthusiast, you will definitely enjoy the insights provided by a knowledgable guide.

We chose a reduced-group tour of just the Alcazar, so we could wander around on our own for a while after the tour. We also booked a separate tour of the Cathedral and La Giralda.

Check prices and availability on this reduced-group tour of the Alcazar now!

Day 1: The Cathedral of Seville

After lunch, stroll over to the Cathedral of Seville, just a two-minute walk from the Royal Alcázar. This is a Roman Catholic church and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

The cathedral is enormous, and one of the top Seville attractions. It is the largest cathedral in the world, and the third largest church. Exploring the cathedral is definitely one of the best things to do in Seville in 3 days!

The Cathedral of Seville in Spain
Seville’s cathedral is enormous…and magnificent!

Originally a mosque, the structure was converted into a cathedral after the Christians conquered Seville. In 1401, the city decided to build a new cathedral, the likes of which the world had not seen before. Construction was completed in 1506.

You’ll find the exterior of the cathedral stunning, with imposing entrances and beautiful architectural elements. The interior is cavernous. You’ll be awestruck by the Capilla Mayor, with its gleaming gold altarpiece.

Stroll around and view the numerous religious art works, including works by Goya and Murrillo, and the tombs of Spanish royalty.

Christopher Columbus is said to be buried here, although there is some controversy about where his body lies.

Religious art at the Seville Cathedral in Spain
Painting of San Juan Baptista
Artwork inside the Cathedral of Seville Spain
There is lots of religious art in the cathedral!

After you view the interior, walk around the beautiful Patio de los Naranjos, the main courtyard with its 60+ orange trees. If you visit in the spring, the heady scent of citrus blossom will make you want to linger here for a while.

The Cathedral of Seville in Spain
Looking up at the Cathedral from the Courtyard of the Orange Trees

Allow about two to three hours.

If you go: Seville Cathedral, Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Get skip-the-line tickets for the Cathedral and La Giralda!

Day 1: La Giralda, the Bell Tower

Next on your Seville sightseeing itinerary is La Giralda, the bell tower of the Seville Cathedral, and one of Seville’s most iconic sights. The Giralda is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

It rises close to 350 feet into the sky.

You can climb to the top of the tower for magnificent 360-degree views over the city. The bell tower used to be the minaret of the mosque that was here before the cathedral.

La Giralda Seville Spain
La Giralda

Walking to the top of the Giralda was one of our most favorite experiences in our three days in Seville. You walk up a series of ramps and then a short flight of stairs to get to the top.

The ramps were designed for horses carrying the muezzins, who had to go to the top and call the faithful to prayer.

The panoramic views are simply spectacular. And it’s really cool to see parts of the buttresses of the cathedral from up close!

Views of the city from La Giralda in Seville Spain
Views of the city from La Giralda
Views of the city from La Giralda in Seville Spain
A view from La Giralda

Allow about one hour.

If you go: La Giralda, Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Day 1: Barrio Santa Cruz

It’s worth dedicating some time from your three days in Seville to wandering the narrow streets and alleyways of Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish Quarter.

When Ferdinand III conquered Sevilla, he confined the Jewish population to this quarter, and eventually, in 1492, Jews were expelled from Spain.

The quarter fell into disrepair in the centuries that followed, until it was restored in the 1900s.

Plaza Virgen de los Reyes in Seville Spain
The Plaza Virgen de los Reyes

The narrow streets, lined with colored houses, are beautiful. You’ll come upon old churches and little squares with statues or fountains.

Flowers dress up patios and walls, and cobblestones complete the medieval ambiance.

A stroll here is a lovely way to wrap up the first of your 3 days in Sevilla!

The narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz in Seville Spain
Barrio Santa Cruz

Allow about one to two hours.

Check out this night guided walking tour of Barrio Santa Cruz! You’ll learn about the history of this fascinating historic Jewish Quarter and have the opportunity to ask questions as you tour!
Book this tour now!

Day 1: Tapas Tour

Your first evening in Seville is the perfect time to go on a guided tapas tour. Seville is home to thousands of tapas bars, and a guided tour will give you lots of information on what to eat and where to find it.

This highly-rated tour is limited to eight to ten people, for a superior, more personalized experience. You will visit several eateries with an expert local guide, sampling tapas and local drinks.

The four-hour food and culture tour includes enough tastings that it can take the place of dinner.

Book this Seville tapas tour now!

Day 2: Mercado de Triana

Start Day 2 of your three days in Seville by crossing Puente Isabel II, for an exploration of the Triana neighborhood across the Guadalquivir river.

With a totally different vibe than the city center, Triana is famous for its azulejos (decorative tiles). As you get off the bridge, take a photo of the famous statue of the flamenco dancer.

Stop first at the Mercado de Triana and stroll the stalls of fresh produce, meats, cheeses and prepared foods. Try a fresh fruit smoothie or some fresh-squeezed juice.

Then pop into the Centro Ceramica for a quick education on the ceramics industry of Triana, and to see some historical tile exhibits.

In Triana, you’ll find small stores selling ceramics, so this would be a good time to shop if you plan to take home some beautiful ceramics! You can also shop for ceramics and fans in the city center.

The narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz in Seville Spain
Ceramics for sale (in the city center)

Stroll some of the streets of Triana before making your way back across the river. Exploring Triana will give you a feel for the Seville of old.

Allow about two to three hours.

If you go: Mercado de Triana, Plaza del Altozano, 14, 41010 Sevilla, Spain

If you go: Centro Ceramica, Calle Callao, 16, 41010 Sevilla, Spain

Day 2: Casa de Pilatos

Even though you’ve seen the Alcázar, it’s still worth visiting the Casa de Pilatos, a beautiful palace built in a mix of Renaissance and Mudèjar architectural styles and one of Seville’s top attractions.

The palace contains a large collection of azulejos, with vivid colors and lovely designs. You will also see paintings, including some by Goya, and some frescoes.

The Casa de Pilatos Seville Spain
Casa de Pilatos

There is a magnificent bougainvillea that provides a riotous display of color on the courtyard wall when in bloom, and the gardens are gorgeous. Sculptures from the Roman ruins at Italica adorn the courtyard.

Bougainvillea in bloom Casa de Pilatos Seville Spain
The bougainvillea is spectacular!

All in all, a beautiful Andalusian palace and a must-see when you are in Seville!

Allow one to two hours.

If you go: Casa de Pilatos, Pl. de Pilatos, 1, 41003 Sevilla, Spain

Day 2: Museo Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija

The Palace of the Countess of Lebrija is another treasure that you must not miss when in Seville. An eclectic mix of architectural and design elements from different eras and styles, the palace is very pleasing to view.

The Countess loved collecting Roman mosaics, which are tastefully incorporated all through the house. There are beautiful ceramic tiles on the walls, and the courtyards feature the arches characteristic of Moorish architecture.

Beautiful tiled floor at the Palace of the Countess of Lebrija Seville Spain
Mosaics on the floor of the palace
Tile displays Palace of the Countess of Lebrija Seville Spain
Beautiful azulejos on display!
Exhibit at the Palace of the Countess of Lebrija Seville Spain
A pot displayed in the palace

The bottom floor can be viewed on your own, but you can only view the apartments on the top floor on a guided tour. It is worth the additional couple of Euros to be able to see the private apartments and learn about the history of the place.

Allow about one to two hours.

If you go: Museo Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija, Calle Cuna, 8, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Day 2: Metropol Parasol

The Metropol Parasol is a huge wooden structure designed by Jurgen Mayer, a German architect. You’ll either find it cool, or incongruous in the historic center.

Either way, it’s worthwhile including the Metropol Parasol in your Seville 3-day itinerary.

Metropol Parasol Seville Spain
The Mushrooms of Seville!

The structures look like giant mushrooms, hence their popular name: Las Setas de la Encarnación.

From the upper levels of the mushrooms, you can get great views of the city center. Sunset is a great time to stroll the top level, and you can stay behind to watch Aurora, the light show.

When the site was being prepped for construction, workers unearthed ruins from the Roman and Al-Andalus times. The artifacts discovered are displayed in a museum at the underground level.

We thought it was a fun place to stop briefly and take some pictures from the top level.

Allow about 30 minutes to one hour.

If you go: Metropol Parasol, Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla, Spain

Day 2: Flamenco Performance

A flamenco show is an absolute must-do when you are in Seville, as is a tapas crawl. You can combine the two by including an organized tour in your 72 hours in Seville itinerary.

You can also do dinner and a flamenco show, take in a performance at a tapas bar, or choose to watch a performance after dinner.

A good flamenco show is an unforgettable experience. The flamboyant dancers command the stage with their footwork and flounces, and their rapid energetic footwork will leave you feeling exhilarated.

You will love the lilt of the plaintive music that accompanies the dancing, and the rhythmic hand-clapping is just mesmerizing.

Watching a flamenco show in Seville should be at the top of your list of the best things to do in Seville.
A flamenco performance is a must when you visit Seville!

If you prefer to watch a show as a dedicated activity (as I did, and highly recommend you do!), then pick one of the theaters that offers quality performances.

Casa del Flamenco in Barrio Santa Cruz offers their shows in a small courtyard. The shows at Casa de la Memoria take place in the patio of a historical palace, and you can buy tickets in advance.

Casa de la Guitarra offers two shows each night, with special focus on the flamenco guitar, and the venue in Barrio Santa Cruz also houses a museum of guitars.

We saw a show at the Museo del Baile Flamenco and it was excellent. It’s considered one of Seville’s best flamenco shows. Don’t go for the museum, just the show. Book your ticket here!

Flamenco in Seville Spain
The music is mesmerizing!

Whichever venue you choose, buy your tickets in advance, especially if your time in Seville is short. The settings tend to be intimate, with limited seating, and advance booking will ensure you are able to watch a performance on the evening of your choice.

Shows generally last from one to two hours.

Day 3: Archaeological Museum

Start off your sightseeing on the last of your three days in Seville with a museum visit.

Located on the perimeter of the Parco de Maria Luisa, the Archaeological Museum is housed in one of the beautiful buildings constructed for the Ibero-American Expo of 1929.

Exhibit at the Archaeological Museum Seville Spain
Exhibit at the Archaeological Museum

The museum houses precious relics uncovered at the Roman ruins of Italica, located just a few miles north of Seville.

Don’t miss the sculptures of Trajan and Hadrian in the upstairs galleries.

Also upstairs are Moorish exhibits salvaged from the ruins at Medina Azahara, just outside the city of Cordoba.

Exhibit at the Archaeological Museum Seville Spain
A beautiful old pot displayed at the museum

Make sure to see the Carambolo exhibit in the Phoenician section, which includes lots of gold jewelry with Oriental design elements.

If the Archaeological Museum doesn’t sound appealing, try the Museum of Arts and Traditions located in the Mudejar Pavilion across the road.

The museum has a stunning exterior that I photographed from the Archaeological Museum, but if you walk inside you can capture it reflected in the large water feature outside.

The museum houses various collections related to traditional arts such as embroidery, lace making and ceramics.

Museum of Arts and Traditions Seville Spain
The beautiful Museum of Arts and Traditions

Allow about one to two hours.

Day 3: Parque de Maria Luisa

It’s time to take a green break at the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa, Seville’s largest green space that sits by the Guadalquivir river. The park was built on grounds that housed the gardens of the Palace of San Telmo. It covers about 100 acres!

I love interspersing historical sights and museums with a walk through a park or a garden, and exploring this beautiful park is one of my favorite memories from our three days in Seville.

Parque de Maria Luisa Seville Spain
Maria Luisa Park is a green haven!

The park is stunning, with numerous plantings of diverse flora, lovely tiles water features and shaded paths. If you are lucky, you may see some of the green parrots that call this park home.

There are lots of benches to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, if you need a break.

Parque de Maria Luisa Seville Spain
Tiled fountain at the Parque de Maria Luisa

Along the perimeter of the park are beautiful buildings, built for the Ibero-American Expo of 1929. Many of them now serve as museums.

Buildings near the Parque de Maria Luisa in Seville Spain
Beautiful architecture is everywhere in Seville!
Buildings near the Parque de Maria Luisa in Seville Spain
Architectural beauty in Seville
Entrance to the Palace of San Telmo Seville Spain
The fabulous entrance of the Palace of San Telmo

Allow at least one hour for exploring the park.

If you go: Parque de Maria Luisa, Paseo de las Delicias, s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain

Day 3: The Plaza de España

Next on your agenda for Day 3 in Seville is the Plaza de España, one of the most magnificent plazas in Europe. Along with the Alcázar, it should be at the top of your list of the best things to do in Seville.

It’s a gigantic plaza, a marvel in brick, stone and tile. It was built in 1928, a mix of Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival architecture.

Plaza de Espana Seville Spain
The Plaza of Spain in Seville

Along its perimeter are buildings, set in a half-circle. As you walk along this half-circle perimeter, you will see gorgeous tile displays celebrating each province of Spain. The colors and detail in the tile work are amazing.

Tiled displays at the Plaza de Espana in Seville Spain
Tile display at the plaza
Tiled displays at the Plaza de Espana in Seville Spain
The tilework is stunning!

There’s a huge fountain occupying pride of place in the center of the plaza, and tall towers rise up at either end. A moat runs along the perimeter, punctuated with colorful bridges. You can actually enjoy a boat ride on the moat.

Bridge over the moat at the Plaza of Spain in Seville
The moat at the Plaza de Espana

Allow about two to three hours. We spent a whole afternoon here!

If you go: Plaza de España, Av de Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla, Spain

Day 3: Walking around Seville

Spend your final evening just walking around, taking in the sights and sounds of Seville.

Walk to the river for beautiful views of the Triana neighborhood across the Guadalquivir, and then walk to the historic Torre del Oro.

You can climb to the top of this tower for great views over the river and the city.

Walking by the Guadalquivir River in Seville Spain
Triana, across the Guadalquivir
The Torre del Oro in Seville Spain
The Tower of Gold in Seville

Then walk back to the city center, where you can stroll around, gawking at the beautiful architecture: Seville has lovely buildings everywhere you look. You may come across street flamenco artists or musicians.

Beautiful architecture in Seville Spain
The historic center of Seville makes for a fabulous wander!

Allow about two hours, or longer!

With more time in Seville

If you have more time in Seville, there are many other things to keep you occupied!

Italica

If you love history, visit the ruins at Italica, just a few miles outside the city.

You can take a bus from the bus station at the Plaza de Armas and wander the ruins on your own, but a guided tour will enhance the experience exponentially.

This is a Games of Thrones filming location!

Museo de Bellas Artes

If you haven’t tired of art and museums, visit the Museo de Bellas Artes, for a wonderful collection of religious art.

As a bonus, the Baroque-style building, courtyards, and gardens are gorgeous.

Churches in Seville

A couple of beautiful churches to explore: the Basilica de la Macarena with its stunning yellow-and-white facade and lovely interior, and the Iglesia Colegial del Salvador, with its lovely dusty pink facade and ornate interior.

Iglesia Colegial del Salvador Seville Spain
Iglesia Colegial del Salvador

Guadalquivir River Cruise

If you want to view Seville from the water, try a cruise on the Guadalquivir River.

Guadalquivir translates to “Big River.” It is the only navigable river in Spain. From the water, you’ll see the beautiful buildings of Seville on either side. The cruise is about 90 minutes long.

Day Trips from Seville

Without a doubt, Seville is one of the best places to visit in Spain.

But Seville is not just a fabulous destination in its own right. It also makes the ideal base for day trips to explore Andalusia. Day trips from Seville range from little white villages to historic cities and natural parks.

For a look at one of Spain’s cute white villages, take a part-day trip to Arcos de la Frontera. It is located on a steep cliff. A car is your best option for getting here. There is a bus, but the journey takes two hours each way…a little too long for one village.

If you want to use public transportation, combine it with a trip to Jerez and make it a full day. Jerez is beautiful as well. It is known for its sherry bodegas.

The train to Jerez takes about one hour and the bus from Jerez to Arcos de la Frontera takes about 30 minutes. There are frequent trains and buses.

This popular guided tour is an excellent way to see Ronda and a couple of charming white villages on a day trip from Seville. The full-day tour is a wonderful way to get out into the countryside if you do not have a car.

The Punte Nuevo in Ronda, Spain
The Punte Nuevo in Ronda

You can also do a day trip to Jerez and Cadiz. We did this trip as a guided tour, but you can do it on your own as well, taking a train from Sevilla to Jerez and another one from Jerez to Cadiz. You can return to Seville by train directly from Cadiz.

Cadiz has a gorgeous mosque-cathedral and a beautiful seaside location. In Jerez, you can enjoy sherry tasting. Jerez also has some stunning buildings.

Many visitors do a day trip to Cordoba from Seville: it is just an hour away by high speed train. We suggest at least two days in Cordoba, but if you are short on time, it is better to do a day trip than not to visit Cordoba at all. You can still take in some of the must-not miss sights in this stunning Andalusian city in one day.

Getting In

Seville has an international airport so perhaps you are flying into Seville. From the Seville Airport, you can book a transfer to the city center, or take a taxi, if you have large bags. Otherwise, you can take a city bus to the Plaza de Armas.

If you are coming south from Madrid, just take the high speed train. You can take a bus or taxi from the Barajas International Airport in Madrid to the Atocha Train Station. The journey is about 2.5 hours and there are frequent departures.

If you are flying into Malaga, again head to the train station and catch a high speed train to Seville. The journey takes just under two hours.

We bought our train tickets in advance from Omio. You can buy them directly from Renfe as well, but their website is not always cooperative. Omio tacks on a small service fee but I found the buying experience quick and hassle-free.

Book your Spain train tickets now!

Getting around in Seville

If you stay in the historic center, you can walk to most of the major sights. Taxis are plentiful and you can also rent bikes through SEVici, Seville’s public bike rental service.

The Seville Hop On, Hop Off Bus is also a great idea, to reduce the amount of walking. The 48-hour ticket allows you to visit major sights in the city.

Seville Cathedral, Seville, Spain
The magnificent Seville Cathedral

Where to Stay in Seville

For the ultimate in luxury, stay at the Hotel Alfonso XIII. The building is reminiscent of an Andalusian palace. It is located in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, very close to many major sights in Seville. Beautiful rooms with all the mod cons and lovely Moorish touches to the decor.
Book your stay here!

We stayed at the Gran Melia Colon, also located in the historical center. It was about a 12- to 15-minute walk to the Cathedral and the Alcazar. We loved the quiet neighborhood. The decor is contemporary and we thought the service was outstanding.

I asked the folks manning the concierge desk a zillion questions and they still greeted me with a huge smile every time they saw me approach. We opted for breakfast, and loved the large number of choices.
Book your stay here!

Looking for an intimate luxurious stay? The Boutique Hotel Casa del Poeta has just 18 rooms. Housed in a traditional Sevilla mansion with a central courtyard and a fountain, this lovely hotel features gorgeous furnishings.
Book your stay here!

These modern apartments are located in the historic core of Seville, near the bus station and walking distance to major sights. The apartment is well-appointed and you can pick from a one or two bedroom unit.
Check rates, reviews, and availability!

Ceramic plates in Seville, Spain
Ceramic plates in Seville

Where to Eat in Seville

We lived on tapas in Spain, only occasionally opting for a sit-down meal. You will find tons of awesome tapas places in Seville. Set aside one evening for a tapas crawl, where you go from one place to another sampling the best options on each menu.

Some of the places we enjoyed were Eslava, with its modern twist on traditional tapas, Bar Modesto for seafood-centric choices, and El Rinconcillo for traditional favorites.

There are just as many places in Seville serving mediocre tapas as there are gems, so research online or get recommendations from the concierge at your hotel for whichever neighborhoods you plan to visit that day. Or opt for a guided tapas crawl.

You have to try the patatas bravas, of course, and the eggplant chips with honey drizzled over them. If you eat meat, you must try the jamon iberico, the specialty of the region. The Manchego cheese is amazing.

You’ll not want for choices at the tapas bars of Sevilla!

Two sit-down meals we really enjoyed:

La Azotea: My most memorable culinary experience in Seville was at La Azotea. They have multiple locations in the city. I am a vegetarian, and they made me a beautiful dish of grilled vegetables and cheese that was absolutely delicious.

My husband loved his meat entree as well. They also have great tapas. Advance reservations are highly recommended: the place got packed within a few minutes of opening and in fact when we arrived right before they opened, there were several groups waiting at the door!

Osteria L’Oca Giuliva: Funnily enough, one of our nicest meals in Seville was at an Italian restaurant! We had lunch here and loved it. Fresh, flavorful, pasta made with great ingredients and fruity olive oil. This eatery tends to get very crowded at lunch, so have your hotel call ahead for a table for you.

Seville by night
The Torre del Oro lit up at night

Best Time to Visit Seville

Spring is the best time to visit Seville, and, indeed, all of Andalusia, where summer temperatures get uncomfortably high. We visited in April, and found the weather perfect.

Plus, in the spring, citrus blossom and jasmine are in bloom, making streets, patios and gardens scented havens that are an absolute joy to walk through.

During the Holy Week, celebrated in the week leading up to Easter Sunday, the Santa Semana processions are spectacular. They can be completely silent, or be accompanied by music.

A couple of weeks later, Seville hosts the Feria de Abril, its other big festival. The fair runs for six days, and features parades and parties, with participants dressing up in flamboyant costumes.

If you plan to visit in April during these festivities, know that you will be dealing with huge crowds. Book accommodations well ahead of time.

Winter is another great time to visit the Andalusian capital. Winter in Seville tends to be sunny and mild, with low crowds and shorter lines at the major attractions. Plus, accommodations are cheaper!

Seville in December offers a festive atmosphere, with lights, nativity scenes, and Christmas markets. On New Year’s Eve, welcome the new year by eating 12 grapes at midnight!

Festivities continue into January: Seville celebrates Three Kings’ Day with a parade on January 5, the day before. The “Three Kings” and their attendants throw candy to the watching crowds. It’s great fun.

Casa de Pilatos in Seville, Spain
Casa de Pilatos in Seville

Map of Places to Visit in 3 Days in Seville

More Spain Travel Inspiration

Madrid, the capital, is one of the top places to visit in Spain. We have a detailed 3 days in Madrid itinerary for your first visit to the Spanish Capital. Also leave room in your itinerary for day trips from Madrid to historic Toledo, Segovia, and more.

If you are planning to visit Barcelona, check out our 3 days in Barcelona itinerary. Plus, there are many day trips from Barcelona you can do, to explore other cities like Girona and Tarragona, and visit the famous Montserrat monastery.

Andalusia, Spain’s beautiful southern region, has lots of beautiful cities and towns to explore. This two-week Andalusia itinerary takes you through the very best the region has to offer.

If you are traveling north from Seville, head to Córdoba, with its world-famous Mezquita, charming flower-filled patios, and historical ruins at Medina Azahara. It’s also a Game of Thrones filming location!

You can also conveniently do a day trip from Seville to Cordoba.

Travel east from Seville to the city of Granada, to visit the famous Alhambra. You can also wander the hilly neighborhoods of Albayzin and Sacramonte, and enjoy the Moorish ambience.

Or travel south-east to Malaga, home to a bustling harbor, the Alcazaba, the sturdy Moorish fortress, and the Gibralfaro castle.

High speed trains connect Seville with both Córdoba and Malaga. We took a bus from Seville to Granada, and loved the countryside through which we traveled. The journey takes about three hours, and you can book tickets online on Alsa or Omio. The bus was clean and comfortable, and on time.

Looking for more places to explore in Andalusia? Check out my post on amazing day trips you can do from Malaga, including the cute village of Casares, one of our favorite white villages in Andalusia!

And if you have just 3 days to spend in the region, click here for the top 5 sights in Andalusia you must not miss!

*****

So there you have it: my suggestions for what to do in Seville over 3 days. Have you been? I’d love to hear your thoughts on what you liked best about the Andalusian capital. Comment below to respond!

If you haven’t yet visited, I hope I have inspired you to plan a trip soon!

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Discover the best things to do in Seville, Spain, in three days. Must-see sights, top attractions, the best flamenco shows and top tapas places.

 

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Dhara

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

27 thoughts on “3 Days in Seville: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Timers (+ Map!)”

  1. Never been to Spain but may just have to add it to my bucket list after reading your post. Loved the architecture and the ornateness. Your pictures were gorgeous!

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  2. Thank you for the insightful article! We are going to Seville in March and are looking forward to exploring this wonderful city!

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  3. Where do I find out how to take the bus from Seville to Granada? Loved your recommendations! Going in May and will try to fit in as much as possible in 2 1/2 days!

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  4. When did you go? We are thinking of sometime in March or April, & would like to be comfortably warm (no heavy winter coats) & if possible to see the Orange Blossom.

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    • We went in April and found it perfect! The orange blossom was definitely in bloom then. I think mid March to April would be ideal: of course, each year is different in terms of weather.

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  5. Thanks Dhara !! Your guide and tips were excellent !! We are a senior citizen couple from India planning our first trip to Spain (on our own and not through a tour operator). Our planned 10-12 day itinerary will cover Barcelone, Madrid-Toledo, Seville, Granada and Valencia. Is mid September a good time to visit ? We want to wrap up the trip with a 5-6 day cruise Barcelona to Barcelona

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    • Mid September sounds like a great time to visit. It will likely be on the warm side, but the days will be long enough that you can fit in what you want to do!

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  6. Thanks Dhara
    This has been a very useful guide for our 3 day trip in Seville. We have had a wonderful time. Your itinerary was perfect. Thank you so much

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  7. Thanks Dhara for the detailed recommendations. Will certainly use the same.
    We are travelling in Seville between 30 Dec 2019 – 02 Dec 2020.
    Do you reckon the cold & rain will dampen our walking around. I realise that sunlight during this time is only available between 9am – 6pm. Any special recommendation for this time of the year?

    Regds,

    Ramiah

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    • Hi Ramiah, I would do the Plaza of Spain and the Maria Luisa Park on a good weather day, since those two involve being outside for an extended period. For most of the other major sights, you can be indoors for a lot of the time and ride out showers. Most sights will be open during the time you mention, so you should be fine with daylight hours. Pack appropriate layers!

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  8. Hi We are going mid-September on recommendation of our grandaughter. Is it still hot enough forshorts, sundresses etc and is it warm in the evenings. Thanks

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  9. you have woven a very nice blog on Seville, The commentary and photos are excellent, we are planning a trip to Spain from 25th Dec,21 to 2nd Jan,21. we intend to start from Seville and move north towards Barcellona. Is it the right approach or should we move from the north and travel down. We would like to cover Seville, Madrid, Barcellona and 2/3 day trips, What would be your recommendation

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    • Either way is fine. We started in Madrid and worked our way down. It may be easier to fly into Madrid or Barcelona from international destinations. As far as day trips, you have tons of options from all three cities, so it really depends on your interests. I would include one Andalusian white village, they are very pretty!

      Reply

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