3 days in Seville – the most beautiful city in Spain

Last Updated on April 1, 2023

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Seville is often referred to as one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, so that alone set my expectations pretty high. After spending 3 days in Seville, I can say I was not disappointed. The city didn’t just live up to my expectation, but definitely exceeded them. The time I spent there, was enough for me to fall head over heels in love with this city, and I can’t wait to go back. I felt like 3 days was a good amount of time to see the main sights, and also have ample time to wander aimlessly and enjoy downtime at one of the many tapas bars.

Seville is home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Seville Cathedral, Real Alcazar and Archivo de Indias. I did skip the third one, but the Cathedral and Real Alcazar are not to be missed. A great thing about Seville is that much like Granada I visited a few days before, it’s very compact. There’s absolutely no need for the car, and if you stay anywhere in the Old Town, you can walk to pretty much everything.

How to spend 3 days in Seville – top things to do in Seville

Plaza de España

Words can’t describe the beauty of this place and pictures don’t do its justice. You simply have to include visiting Plaza de España in your 3 day Seville itinerary. This stunning plaza was built in 1928 in preparation for Ibero – American Exposition, which Seville hosted a year later. Today, it’s home to various government offices and it’s one of the biggest tourists attractions in Seville. Plaza de España can easily compete for the title of the most beautiful plaza in the world, and it is the most stunning one I’ve seen.

One of the great features of Plaza de España are 48 alcoves along the wall, decorated with ceramic tiles, representing each province of Spain. It’s a tradition for Spanish visitors, to take a picture on the bench of their province’s alcove. The beautiful ceramic tile accents can also be seen on the 4 bridges, and other parts of the Plaza.

Visit Sevilla Cathedral

This beautiful Cathedral is the 3rd largest church in the world and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Previously a mosque that got converter into a church, when the Christians took over Seville 1248. You can get a feel of how big it is, when you try to walk around it. One of the main attractions inside of the Cathedral, is the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who died in Spain. His remains were moved a few times, from Seville, to Santo Domingo and Cuba, before returning back to his original resting place in Seville.

However, the most impressive part of the Cathedral is the main altar in the Grand Chapel, that is literally dripping in gold. As you exit the Cathedral you end up in Patio de los Naranjos, a beautiful courtyard, with many orange trees and fountains. Back in the 12th century, this was the entrance to the mosque, and where the worshipers would wash up before entering.

Visiting the Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Seville and the line to get tickets can get insanely long. To save time and avoid standing around in the often scorching heat, I highly recommend getting your tickets in advance. Book Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower – Skip the Line tickets here.

Climb to the top of La Giralda

While visiting the Cathedral, don’t skip climbing to the top of the bell tower La Giralda, the city’s landmark. Even though it’s 97 m high ( 320 feet ), the climb is easier on the legs, because it has ramps instead of stairs. Giralda tower was once used to call to prayer, and horses would carry muezzin to the top of it. For that reason, they built 35 ramps instead of stairs. Once at the top you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views of Sevilla.

Visit Real Alcazar

Real Alcazar might be smaller and less famous than the Alhambra in Granada, but it’s a must see while in Sevilla. The beautiful UNESCO recognized Royal palace in the heart of Seville, is a stunning complex made up by many courtyards, halls and lush gardens. To this day, it’s still used by the Spanish Royal family on their visits to Seville, making it the oldest Royal palace still in use in Europe.

One of the most impressive parts of Real Alcazar is Hall of the Ambassadors, with its golden dome on the ceiling.

Cuarto Real Alto ( Upper Royal Quarters ) is where the Royal family stays during their visits to Andalusia. You have to add it to your general entry ticket, but the beautiful rooms are must see. Unfortunately, the photography is not allowed within the quarters.

The gardens that are part of Real Alcazar, are just as impressive as the Palace itself. They cover a huge area, that is made up by gardens from different centuries. A stroll among the trees, variety of beautiful plants, bushes and fountains provides a much needed relief from the summer’s heat. The gardens were recently used as a filming location for some scenes in Season 5 of Game of Thrones.

You definitely want to prebook your Real Alcazar tickets ahead of time. Not only it guarantees you will get in, but also, you get to skip the line. I highly recommend buying the combo, that includes the General Entry and Cuarto Real Alto, with an audio guide.

While you can have an audio guide walk you through Real Alcazar, I think you’d benefit from visiting this amazing place with a knowledgeable guide. With this highly rated Alcázar Guided Tour with Priority Entrance, you join a small group on a 90 minute tour of the Palace and gardens. And as the name suggests, you don’t only get to skip the line, but enter through a separate entrance.

Explore Barrio Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an old Jewish neighborhood, made up by a labyrinth of tiny streets and alleys. Some so narrow, cars don’t have access. As charming and picturesque as this makes the neighborhood, it actually serves a greater purpose. The narrow alleys with buildings close to each other provide enough shade and a relief from the sun during the scorching hot summers in Seville.

It’s without a doubt the most picturesque part of the city. The perfect neighborhood to get lost in, and trust me, it will happen. During my 3 days in Seville, I became a bit disoriented more than once. What better neighborhood though, to wander around and get lost, both literally and figuratively.

Stop at Torre del Oro

About a 10 minute walk from Seville Cathedral, right on the banks of Guadalquivir River, you will find another one of the most popular sights in Seville, Torre del Oro. It’s a military watch tower, dating back to the 13th century. It’s located right along the promenade and makes for a great stop and photo op.

For a small fee, you can climb to the top for nice views of the river and Triana neighborhood on the other side of the river. There’s also a small maritime museum inside, if that is something that interests you. Whether you want to just make a quick stop on your walk along the river or step inside, be sure to include Torre del Oro in your 3 day Seville itinerary.

PRO TIP: For best lighting, visit Torre del Oro during Golden hour.

Entrance cost: €3 ( € 2 extra if you’d like to rent an audio guide ).

Walk along Guadalquivir River

After making a stop at Torre del Oro, continue walking along the river. There is a nice promenade, that is great for walking or biking, with several places to stop for a drink and a snack. If you visit Seville in the summer, like I did, the breeze from the river will provide a much needed relief from the heat. And it’s also one of the free things to do in Seville.

Visit Triana neighborhood

If you cross Puente de Triana ( officially Isabel II bridge ), you end up on the west side of the river in Triana. This neighborhood used to be a gypsy quarter, and was supposedly the birthplace of flamenco. If you are looking to bring home some pottery or azulejos ( ceramic tiles ), Triana is the place to get it.

Triana feels like another city within a city. It has a more quiet and residential feel to it. It’s definitely less touristy than the old town Sevilla, and what comes with it, the prices are lower, whether it’s food or accommodations.

Also, if you’re looking to have dinner with the view, Triana is where you want to go. Calle Betis is a street that runs along the river, and is lined with many restaurants with outdoor seating.

Metropol Parasol

Among all the beautiful, historic buildings in Seville, you will find a contemporary one, that sure stands out from the rest. Metropol Parasol is a newer addition to the city, that opened in 2011. It’s located in the heart of the old district, in the La Encarnación square. The unique structure is also known as Las Setas, which refers to its mushroom like appearance. It’s believed to be the largest wooden structure in the world.

Visiting Metropol Parasol is definitely worth being included in your Seville itinerary, not only for its unique design, but also for great panoramic views of the city. There are 5 levels from which you get beautiful, 360 views of Seville. You arrive on the 2nd level via the elevator, where you will find multiple walkways to take and enjoy the views.

Your entrance ticket comes with a discount you can use in the Cafe located on one of the level. For extra €2, you can also visit the Antiquarium, which is located on the underground level.

Entrance cost: €5 ( € 2 extra if you plan on visiting Antiquarium ).

Indulge in Tapas

With over 4000 tapas bars, it’s safe to say, that you will not go hungry in Seville. I don’t think, that anything could have tasted better than a bowl of gazpacho on a scorching hot day. I sampled it in many of the tapas bars on each out of my 3 days in Seville.

A couple of tapas places I especially enjoyed were Bodega Santa Cruz ( Calle Rodrigo Caro 1 ) and Bar Las Teresas ( Calle Santa Teresa 2 ).

• Bodega Santa Cruz, as the name indicates is in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, not far from the Cathedral. It’s one of the best and most popular in Sevilla, and for a good reason. They have some delicious, cheap tapas and great drinks, which attracts both locals and tourists.

• Las Teresas is a tiny place, one would describe as a hidden gem. Located in one of the tiny alleys in Santa Cruz, with a couple of tables outside. Delicious, authentic tapas and an amazing value.

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Guided tours in Seville

Seville is very easy to explore on your own, but there are some great guided tours to take, especially if it’s your first time in the city. Most guides are very knowledgeable and you can learn a lot about the city in a short time. Not to mention, they always have the best local tips!

• Triana Tablao Flamenco Show with Drink
• Alcazar, Cathedral & Giralda Guided Tour

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Best time to visit Seville

The decision when to visit Seville is usually determined by the weather and events that take place in the city. Even though Seville can be visited pretty much most of the year, you need to remember a couple of things before making your arrangements.

The high season in Seville falls between February and June. The weather is beautiful, everything’s in bloom, it’s hot enough without being oppressive, which is perfect for sightseeing. Spring also means two important events in April: Semana Santa ( Holy Week ) and Feria de Abril. Witnessing the big festivities is an amazing experience, but it also means that Seville is at its busiest. What comes with it, prices are at its highest.

July and August are the low season in Seville. Unless you enjoy consistent temperatures of 100 F and above, you should probably avoid visiting during these two months. I got to experience the Andalusian summer first hand, as I traveled in July, and I can attest, the heat is no joke. It can really get to you, especially if you have lots of sightseeing on the agenda. On the upside though, you will be able to score cheaper flights and accommodations. Seville will be less crowded, as the heat keeps some tourists away, and many locals escape the city to sea side towns like Cadiz.

How to get to Seville

Fly

Seville has its own little airport: San Pablo Airport ( SVQ ), located 10 km outside if the city. You can fly there from some European cities. However, if you come from overseas, it’s more common to fly into Malaga, as it’s the 3rd biggest airport in Spain and chances of scoring a good deal on flights is much higher.

Getting to Seville by bus

If Seville is part of your trip through Andalusia, taking a bus is a great way to get between destinations. It’s not only cheap, but also very comfortable. Alsa is the main bus operator in Spain, and it connects most destinations. They have different levels of comfort, and prices range depending on which one you choose and when you travel. Check the timetable and prices on the Alsa website.

Sevilla has 2 bus stations: Plaza de las Armas ( in the city center ) and Prado de San Sebastian (a bit further away ), so it’s importatnt to know when you book your ticket.

I arrived to Seville from Granada by Alsa bus, and can’t recommend it enough. I chose the Supra Economy bus, and for €13 I got a seat with no neighbor, WiFi and extra leg room. Not to mention stunning views along the way.

Getting to Seville by train

A great way to get to Seville from other parts of Spain is by train. The Spanish railway company Renfe connects Sevilla with other destinations not only in the area, but in all Spain. You can check the timetable and book your tickets on the official Renfe website. Seville’s main train station is Santa Justa. It’s located a bit outside of the city center, so you will need a taxi to get there ( shouldn’t be more than € 5 ).

Where to stay in Seville

Seville is very walkable, so if you stay anywhere in the central part of the city, you will be in a great location to get to all the main sights. One of the best neighborhoods and where I chose to stay, is Santa Cruz. It’s very central, close to everything, not to mention one of the most beautiful areas of Seville. Here are some great hotel choices:

• Hotel Murillo – this hotel was where I stayed during my 3 days in Seville and I highly recommend it, especially for a first time visitor. It’s in a central location, a walking distance to all the top attractions. It’s very comfortable and a great value for money. It’s located in one of these narrow alleys, where cars don’t have access, so you are away from the traffic. If you stay there, book the junior suite on the 3rd floor and you will be in a very quiet area, with no neighbors.
• Hotel Casa 1800 – it’s another great choice in the heart of Santa Cruz neighborhood. This boutique hotel has only 33 rooms, and some of them have great views of the Cathedral. When you step out of the hotel, you have endless choices of restaurants and tapas bars, with one of everyone’s favorites Bodega Santa Cruz right next door.

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If you enjoyed this article, you can download it via the GPSmyCity app – it will give you access to the guide, you will be able to use, even if you’re offline. Download it here.

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READ MORE:

• 2 days in Granada, Spain – things you can’t miss
• Things to do in Cadiz – Seville to Cadiz day trip
• Things to do in Nerja, Spain in one day

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