With 3 days in Seville, you can unravel the best of what this fantastic Andalusian destination has to offer. From historic Moorish buildings and tantalizing tapas to iconic landmarks and flamenco shows, this city is full of character.
We have returned to Seville for multiple trips, and this Seville itinerary for 3 days includes all the best things to do in Seville, Spain, and a chance to experience the vibrant spirit of this beautiful Andalusian city.
See how to spend your time for the most rewarding trip to Spain with this 3 day Seville itinerary that gives you enough time to take advantage of at least one of the best Seville day trips.
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Planning your trip to Seville last minute? Here are the tours and hotels we recommend. You will also find the best boutique hotels in Seville helpful in booking your trip.
- TOP EXPERIENCES & TOURS IN SEVILLE
- Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcázar Guided Tour – top guided tour in Seville.
- Casa de la Memoria Flamenco Show – highly popular flamenco show
- Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Full-Day Trip – best day trip from Seville
- BEST HOTELS IN SEVILLE
- Hotel Alfonso XIII – the best luxury hotel in Seville that’s worth the splurge
- Pájaro Rebelde – most romantic Seville hotel for design lovers
- Hotel Casa Del Poeta – stylish boutique hotel with rooftop views, great location
- Triana House – beautiful hotel in an authentic Seville neighborhood
- PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR SEVILLE
- Get Travel Insurance for Spain with Safety Wing.
- Check Discover Cars for great car rental prices at Sevilla International Airport.
- Find the best flight deals to Seville on Skyscanner.
3 Days in Seville Itinerary – Day 1
Arrive and Check into Your Seville Boutique Hotel
Boutique hotels in Seville will amplify your travel experience in the south of Spain. Whether you want something romantic with a private terrace, chic with a trendy bar, or cool and features a rooftop pool, check out our favorite hotels in Seville.
From here, drop your bags, freshen up as need be, and get ready to enjoy the first day of your Seville, Spain itinerary.
Start at Plaza de España
One of the most spectacular places in Seville, Plaza de España is a large, semi-circled square with a canal running through it.
Known for its blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture with intricate tiling, this is definitely one of the most popular places to see.
Along the curved building, there are a series of beautifully tile-clad alcoves, each dedicated to a specific Spanish province. These niches are adorned with benches, making it a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
For a memorable experience, you can actually book a boat ride through the canal. Plus, rowboat rentals only cost €6 for 35 minutes and they fit about four people.
Maria Luisa Park
Next on this 3-day Seville itinerary, you can visit Maria Luisa Park. This 100-acre park was a gracious gift from Infanta Maria Luisa Fernanda, opened to the public in 1893.
Home to formal gardens, picturesque tree-lined avenues, multiple pavilions, and walking paths. Maria Luisa Park is also a haven for birdlife, including ponds dotted throughout the park that attract ducks and swans.
Wander around, soaking in the tranquility and taking in the sights. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. You can also hop on a boat and paddle around the ponds, find a cozy spot for a picnic or short break, or rent bikes.
If you are traveling with kids, you might like to visit the Seville Aquarium which is also located within the park.
Real Alcázar of Seville
Originally constructed in the 10th century as a fortress for Muslim rulers, the Real Alcázar in Seville is a masterpiece of Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
The complex underwent expansions and renovations, with each ruling dynasty adding its architectural imprint.
After the Reconquista, the Christian rulers, notably King Peter of Castile in the 14th century, initiated Gothic and Mudéjar additions, transforming the fortress into a royal residence.
It’s one of the best places to see Mudéjar architecture, historically used for Iberian Christian kingdoms. You’ll know it by its stone and tile designs that still feel influenced by Moorish styles you’ll see a lot of in the south of Spain.
The palace has been witness to the ebb and flow of history, playing host to monarchs, dignitaries, and even serving as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones.
For Game of Thrones fans, the Real Alcázar doubles as the fictional Water Gardens of Dorne. The intricate architecture and lush gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site provided an exquisite backdrop for the world of Westeros.
Within the walls of Real Alcázar, the Patio de las Doncellas transformed into the private residence of House Martell, hosting key characters like Prince Doran Martell and the Sand Snakes.
The underground baths, known as Los Baños de Doña María de Padilla, offered a mysterious and alluring setting for various scenes, while the grand Sala de los Embajadores added a touch of regality to the palace sequences.
If you love the show, you’ll have even more fun exploring these iconic locations at the Real Alcázar.
Pre-book an entry ticket to Real Alcázar. Hours: 9:30 AM to 5PM, with extended hours to 7 PM from April to September.
Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral has been open since the 16th century, built on the site of a Moorish mosque. It’s one of the largest Gothic cathedrals and it’s unique to visit.
You can see the tomb of Christopher Columbus here. He died in Cuba, but his body was transferred to Seville and now he rests in this tomb in the Catedral de Sevilla.
It also has Spain’s largest nave, the central part of the church. It’s really tall with arched ceilings and a medieval feel throughout.
General admission is €9 and discounted tickets (students or retired) are €4.
La Giralda Tower
Although the Giralda Tower is attached to the Seville Cathedral, it’s actually older. There used to be a mosque where the cathedral now is, but it was destroyed during the Middle Ages, but the Giralda Tower wasn’t.
Eventually, they built the Seville Cathedral to connect with the tower.
For an amazing view of the city, you can climb the 35 flights to the top of La Giralda Tower. It’s 331 feet tall (101 meters), making it taller than Big Ben in London.
Tickets cost €16.37. That’s why we recommend booking all three – Real Alcázar, the cathedral, and the tower – into one guided tour to make the most of your time and money.
Take a Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcázar Guided Tour
One of the best ways to explore the top sights in the historic center, especially during high season, is to take a tour instead of exploring these iconic sights on your own.
The Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcázar Guided Tour allows you to skip the line – and trust me, the lines can be long! It’s a huge time saver, especially when you only have two to three days in Seville.
Another benefit is that knowledgeable guides provide insight into the artistic significance and historical context. They go beyond the beauty, explaining the intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Maybe the best part is having someone navigate the complex layouts (especially in the Real Alcázar), ensuring that no hidden gems, like the Baths of Doña Maria de Padilla or other Game of Thrones filming locations, are missed.
The Real Alcázar is one of the main highlights, but this tour will also take you to the stunning UNESCO Seville Cathedral, up the Moorish Giralda Tower for an awesome view of the city, and through the lovely royal gardens.
After four trips to Seville, we have taken a tour and seen the sights separately with timed entry tickets. If you are pressed for time and want to learn more about what you are seeing, a tour is the way to go. Reserve your tour now.
Lunch in Barrio Santa Cruz
Also known as the Jewish Quarter, Barrio Santa Cruz is located behind the cathedral. It’s a great area for lunch in Seville.
Pick one of the traditional bars or tapas restaurants with a menu del día – a set menu with usually a couple of options for each: a starter, main dish, and dessert, and usually includes a drink.
Bodega Santa Cruz is one of the most traditional and famous spots for a Sevillano dining experience.
They serve ALL sorts of tapas, including the assortments of small sandwiches known as montaditos and salmorejo, a style of gazpacho from Cordoba where you blend bread, tomato, olive oil, and garlic. It’s usually topped with a bit of cheese and bacon.
Guadalquivir River Cruise or Walk
After lunch, take a leisurely Guadalquivir River Cruise. You’ll see the city’s famous monuments from a new perspective while enjoying a ride around the scenic river.
It’s picturesque and romantic if you can book your cruise to start around Golden Hour or sunset.
The ride is just under an hour as you pass under historic bridges, see the pavilions of the Seville Expo, and soak up the city’s picturesque riverside views.
You can also walk along the river bank and across Puente de San Telmo for lovely views of historic Old Town Seville.
Stop at the Torre del Oro, a former defensive watch tower. This beautiful 13th-century tower was also a prison at one point. Make a nominal donation to the Navy to tour the inside.
Flamenco
The south of Spain is the best place in the country to see a flamenco show, and Seville is no exception. Catch a free show when visiting various tourist sights or go to a show in the evening.
The Casa de la Memoria Flamenco Show is Seville’s most-celebrated flamenco show. The theater dates back to the 15th century and offers an authentic performance.
And if you don’t know, flamenco is a form of dance accompanied with acoustic music. Performers dress in traditional clothing that usually involve long dresses with flowy skirts and specific shoes, similar to tap shoes.
The show lasts one hour and there are typically two a day, starting at 7:30 and 9 p.m. Book in advance to reserve your spot. There are no drinks or meals available during the show.
3 Days in Seville Itinerary – Day 2
When it comes to what to see in Seville in 3 days, the second day is more of a cultural deep dive with Spanish cuisine at the forefront.
Pilate’s House (Casa De Pilatos)
Casa de Pilatos is a must-visit destination on a Seville Itinerary for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. This hidden gem is a quieter and more intimate alternative to the bustling Real Alcazar.
Built in the 16th century, Casa de Pilatos boasts a layout of courtyards, well-manicured gardens, and opulent rooms, showcasing exquisite tiles, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and a rich history.
The informative audio guide enhances the visit, providing insightful narratives while you take a leisurely stroll through the palatial residence and absorb the historical significance at your own pace.
For those seeking an extra layer of insight, the option to tour the upstairs for a nominal fee unveils even more captivating details, making Casa de Pilatos a truly enriching and personalized historical journey in the heart of Seville.
Metropol Parasol
Best known as Las Setas de Sevilla (The Seville Mushrooms), this is one of the most unique places to see during your trip.
This massive landmark built over Plaza de la Encarnación is the world’s largest wooden structure. On top of the parasols is a staircase and a rooftop walkway with panoramic views of Seville.
Below it is a market and a couple of bars and restaurants. Entry tickets to the upper viewpoint cost €5 during the day and €10 in the evenings.
Seville Museum of Fine Arts
The Seville Museum of Fine Arts, also known as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla, is set in a historic 17th-century convent. It is a must-visit on a 3 day Seville Itinerary.
Inside are mostly Spanish works from the medieval period, showcasing the brilliance of Spanish painters such as Francisco de Zurbarán, renowned for his religious artworks that form a cornerstone of the museum’s holdings.
You will also find works from Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Diego Velázquez, El Greco, and Francisco Goya, all eminent figures in Spanish art. The architecture and unique artwork make it nice to explore slowly. There’s also a lush courtyard.
Tickets are only €1.50, and it’s free to enter if you are a resident of the European Union. Informative guided tours are €14. The museum is closed on Mondays unless it’s a public holiday.
Spanish Cooking Class & Triana Market Tour
Experiences like cooking classes are some of the best ways to get to know a city.
If you want to learn more about the food in Southern Spain, we highly recommend hopping on this awesome 3.5-hour Spanish Cooking Class & Triana Market Tour in Seville.
The class starts in Mercado de Triana, the city’s popular fresh food market. You’ll find everything from local produce to tapas, seafood, and artisan crafts.
Your guide will take you around to some of the most famous stalls while teaching you the history of the market and many of its products.
Afterward, you go to a cooking school and learn how to prepare paella and a couple of regional tapas. Eating the delicious dishes at the end is perfect for lunch on day two of your 3 day Seville itinerary.
Try a Scrumptious Seville Tapas Crawl
Another great foodie experience is to finish the night off with a Seville Tapas Crawl. Tapas are most commonly eaten at night, as most Spaniards eat a heavier lunch than dinner.
So, do like the locals – but with a “crawl” twist. Plus, it’s one of the best ways to maximize your short trip by visiting several tapas bars in one night.
Food, drinks, and dessert are included when you book the tour. You’ll also sample regional wine and drinks along the way.
The tapas crawl lasts around 3 hours in a fun small group with other like-minded travelers.
Day Trips for Day 3 in Seville
You can see the main highlights of Seville in 2 days, so on day 3 you should take a day trip to see more of Andalusia. You have several options depending on your interests. Here are some day trips from Seville.
Seville to Cordoba Day Trip
A Cordoba day trip is one of the best from Seville, especially during May to see the colorful patios on display.
Visit Córdoba’s crown jewel, the Mezquita-Catedral, which fuses Islamic and Christian influences, showcasing stunning arches, intricate mosaics, and a beautiful prayer hall.
The narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, with its vibrant patios adorned with colorful flowers, provide a charming contrast to the grandeur of the Mezquita-Catedral.
A stroll across the Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir River offers breathtaking views of the city, completing an enchanting day trip.
Pueblos Blancos and Ronda
Journey through the Andalusian countryside and whitewashed towns of Zahara de la Sierra, Grazalema, and Ronda.
See an authentic olive oil factory on the way to Grazalema, near the stunning Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. This place is full of gorgeous vistas and diverse wildlife high up in the mountains.
Enjoy lunch on your own in Grazalema, surrounded by traditional white horses which is a really unique experience.
This tour is all about seeing the different landscapes of the region. So, you’ll also visit a Mediterranean forest where a lot of local honey, cork, and spices can be found.
Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain, and it’s the biggest highlight of this tour. It is perched on top of two towering cliffs connected by a bridge and is full of historic streets and legendary views.
Seville Day Trip to Gibraltar
Gibraltar is an overseas British territory and the gateway between Europe and Africa – on a clear day you can even see Morocco.
And being only two hours away from Seville, the Day Trip to Gibraltar is ideal if you want to check Gibraltar off your bucket list.
But it’s more than just the cool experience of arriving on British land during your trip to Spain. Gibraltar has some unique adventures to offer.
This tour will take you to explore Gibraltar Nature Reserve, including Saint Michael’s Cave, with underground light shows.
Nearby you’ll also be able to see local barbary monkeys, originally from the Atlas Mountains, and now are the only wild monkeys in Europe.
There will also be time to explore the main streets, shop for souvenirs, and have lunch.
Day Trip From Seville to Granada
Having had both Islamic and Christian rulers, Granada is a gorgeous blend of culture and architecture. It is also home to the biggest attraction in Spain, the Alhambra palace and fortress.
Book this tour from Seville to Granada and see the Alhambra palace and fortress, which is known to be one of the best examples of Moorish architecture.
You then drive into the center of Granada for lunch and a walking tour around the Albaicín district, full of winding streets and medieval Moorish architecture.
This is a great way to spend the last day of your three days in Seville, Spain itinerary if you aren’t planning to see more of the south on this trip.
Hike Caminito del Rey – One of The Coolest Hikes in Spain
Our latest trip to Seville was a stopover on our way to the Caminito del Rey Hike that we had been dying to do after we saw photos.
This Seville day trip recommendation is for our fellow adventurists who have a hard time being so close to one of the most epic hikes in Europe and not taking advantage of it.
The crazy hike includes an aerial walkway secured to a vertical cliff face and then crosses the Desfiladero de Los Gaitanes gorge on a suspension bridge.
It was formerly known as the most dangerous hike in the world. Now the pathways have been fully restored and the very picturesque suspension bridge, 120 meters (394 feet) above the gorge is safe to experience.
Book a Full Day Trip From Seville to the Caminito del Rey Hike which includes transportation and a guide.
Where to Stay For 3 Days in Seville
Make the most of your 3-day Seville itinerary by choosing the right base for your trip. Here are some of the best hotels in Seville for first-timers to the city.
Book one of these hotels in the popular Santa Cruz neighborhood, surrounded by the best things to do in Seville. Otherwise, a hotel in El Centro, with a nice shopping area, offers a great base near Old Town. It’s still an easy walk to all the main sites.
- LUXURY HOTELS IN SEVILLE
- Hotel Alfonso XIII (9) – This is the top luxury hotel in Seville, and it’s worth the splurge. all of history dating back to the early 1920s, there’s also a rooftop bar, pool, and restaurant.
- Hotel Casa Del Poeta (9.5) – a stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop deck in a perfect location.
- MODERATELY PRICED SEVILLE HOTELS
- Casa Sevilla 1920 Suites by Época (9.1) – We stayed in this boutique aparthotel with studios and 1-2 bedroom apartments, that are great for families.
- H10 Casa de la Plata (9.5) – This boutique hotel has bright rooms with city views, a fantastic rooftop bar, and a lush courtyard in an updated 19th-century building.
- Querencia de Sevilla (9.4) – This hotel has an Andalusian feel, but what makes it one of the best places to stay in Seville is its rooftop pool and panoramic views. The rooms are also excellent, and some have private terraces.
- BUDGET ACCOMMODATIONS IN SEVILLE
- Casual de las Letras Sevilla (8.4) – clean rooms in a central location with a terrific staff.
See our full guide on the best hotels in Seville for more inspiration.
How to Adjust Your Itinerary For 1 or 2 Days in Seville
If you are short on time and spending one day in Seville or maybe two, you can mostly follow the same itinerary but skip the extra day trips. Here’s how to spend your time.
- 1 Day in Seville: See the top attractions like Plaza de España, Las Setas, and the Real Alcázar. Have lunch in Barrio Santa Cruz and enjoy a flamenco show at night for the full Sevillano experience.
- 2 Days in Seville: Follow the itinerary for days 1 and 2, and don’t do a day trip on the last day. You’ll have enough time to see all the main places without having to rush.
How to Get to Seville & How to Get Around Seville
- Seville Airport: Seville is served by Seville Airport (SVQ), which is just northeast of the city center. Most overseas flights will arrive first to Barcelona or Madrid. If you are flying from other cities in Europe/Spain, you can often fly straight to Seville.
- Train from Madrid: The high-speed train from Madrid Atocha to Seville Santa Justa station takes about 2.5 hours and runs up to 192 miles per hour.
- Rental Car: If you are doing a Southern Spain road trip, you can rent a car at the airport. We always use Discover Cars in Europe because the prices are typically lower, and the rentals are straightforward. Before using Discover Cars, we had a lot of unpleasant bait and switch with car rental companies. Street parking is easy in Seville.
- Airport to City Center: There is a 30-minute shuttle bus from the airport for €4 one way or €6 round trip. A taxi from the airport is €30 and takes 20 minutes.
- Private transport: Have a professional drive you in an air-conditioned vehicle. Book private transport from the airport or train station here.
- Walk: Seville is a very walkable city, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of one another. We had a car that we parked on the street, and then we walked everywhere.
- Bike: For a unique experience, you can do a Seville bike tour and see the highlights that way.
- Public Transit: There is a tram called Metro-Centro that you can take around the center of Seville. The bus network covers the whole city. Tickets are less than €2.
- Hop On Hop Off Bus: The Hop On Hop Off Bus stops at all the attractions with informative commentary. It’s a great way to get to know and see the city. You can buy a 24 or 48-hour ticket.
- Seville Pass: The Seville Pass is easy to book and download to your phone. For one price you get entry to the Royal Alcázar Palace and Gardens, Seville Cathedral & Giralda Skip the Line Ticket, the 48-Hour Hop On Hop Off Bus, and a Seville audio guide for your phone.
- Uber: You can use your Uber app just like you would at home.
Is Seville Safe?
Seville is a safe destination for travelers. Like with any destination, you should excercise common safety measures like being aware of your surroudnings and keeping your valuables secure.
Pickpocketing can be an issue in Spain, but it’s worse in cities like Barcelona. Traveling with an anti-theft Crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack is always a good idea.
What to Pack for Visiting Seville, Spain
When packing for your trip to Seville, pack like you would for a warm Mediterranean climate. However, if you are visiting in winter, you will need some warmer layers as the temperatures do drop off.
With Southern Spain being so friendly and fun-loving, you will want to bring clothes to go out at night. You also need to remember that you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets and the weather can be HOT! Pack layers.
Don’t forget to pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. There are drinking fountains where you can refill your water bottles.
- Comfy walking shoes – sneakers are the best shoes for cobblestones. Everyone in Europe wears them.
- Bring a packable hat because there are many spots where you are in direct sun.
- Use an anti-theft Crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack. Seville is relatively safe but be wary of pickpockets.
- Travel Adapter – this universal adapter works in 150 countries, including Spain
Best Time to Visit Seville Spain
The best time to visit Seville is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is comfortable, and the city comes alive with cultural events and festivals.
Avoid visiting during the scorching summer months (late June to August) when temperatures soar. You’ll have less fun walking around and doing outdoor activities when it is unbearably hot.
Annual Festivals in Seville
- Seville boasts a bevy of fun festivals. We were there for Three Kings Day, which happens every year on January 6th. There are decorated floats with the Three Kings and kids that throw candy out to the crowds.
- Seville is one of the best places to visit in March or April for Semana Santa, Holy Week before Easter.
- A few weeks later is the Feria de Abril, a celebration that fills the city with flamenco rhythms, vibrant costumes, and lively casetas, inviting locals and visitors alike to revel in the joyous spirit of Sevillian culture.
- The Bienal de Flamenco, occurring every other September, showcases the art of flamenco, bringing together performers for an unforgettable display of passion and skill.
- The Fiesta de San Juan ushers in summer on June 23 with bonfires and fireworks, while the enchanting Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations illuminate the city.
Final Thoughts About Three Days in Seville Spain
Use the Seville itinerary to plan an amazing trip to this warm and inviting Andalusian city. And if you have extra time, consider another day trip to soak up more culture and stunning landscapes. The south of Spain is a gem!
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