Three Perfect Days in Seville

You’ll uncover Andalusian heritage with every step through its tiled palaces, grand plazas, and baroque churches. Life in this sunbaked city is relaxed, so fall into sync with the locals. Take your time to enjoy eating alfresco and taking leisurely walks through its maze of cobbled streets.

Follow our suggested itinerary for three perfect days in Seville and experience the unique spirit of this captivating Spanish city.

Day One

10am

Begin your break in Seville at the intricate and spectacular Real Alcázar. A tiled archway greets you at the main entrance at the Puerta del León before you cross the 12th-century walls and head into the heart of the stunning complex. The scale, color, and detailing of the Christian and Mudéjar architecture is overwhelmingly beautiful. Give yourself enough time to admire the ornate dome ceiling of the Salón de Embajadores and arches that enclose the serene Patio de las Doncellas.

Wander through the lush, manicured gardens, passing ponds, and tinkling fountains before heading to the Jardín de la Danza to access the Baños de María Padilla, a show-stopping underground chamber with Gothic vaults.

1pm

After a dose of sightseeing, pick up lunch from 100 Montaditos and take it to the nearby Parque de María Luisa for a picnic. Laze in the sunshine or under the shade of exotic trees as you enjoy your lunch in this green oasis.

Brush off the crumbs and explore the tranquil park’s maze of paths, leading to hidden lakes and water features. Suddenly, the greenery will melt away and you’ll find yourself at the Plaza de España. Feast your eyes on the extravagant architecture of the square (although it’s more like a semi-circle), which was built in the late 1920s, and explore the colorful tiled pictures showcasing each of the country’s provinces. Rent a boat at the mini canal to enjoy a new perspective of the Venetian-style bridges and ornate square.

4pm

Leave the park behind and stroll along the riverside up to the Torre del Oro, a honey-hued watchtower perched on the bank. Learn about its history, which stretches all the way back to the 13th-century, and then climb the steps to the top where you can enjoy spectacular views down the river.

8:30pm

After a quick stop at your hotel, head back into the city to enjoy its famous cuisine. Seek out La Brunilda, a standout tapas bar hidden away on Calle Galera in Arenal neighborhood, and indulge in grilled octopus, spicy potatoes, cod fritters, and goat cheese salad.

Day Two

10am

More architectural beauty is waiting to be explored at the city’s towering Gothic cathedral, Catedral de Sevilla. Arguably no other church on the planet can rival its size and splendor. Stand in the pretty square outside the entrance to take in its epic scale and 15th-century detailing before heading inside to discover its real beauty.

Feast your eyes on the enormous yet delicately designed nave, gaze at masterpieces from the city’s Golden Age that line the walls, and catch a glimpse of Christopher Columbus’ tomb. Make for the north-east corner of the complex to discover Giralda, the cathedral’s embellished bell tower. From here it’s a joy to drink in the views of sun-kissed Seville below.

1pm

Walk north-east from the cathedral to Bodeguita Romero for an authentic Sevillian lunch. Order a few tapas plates and settle in to enjoy the classic cooking. Try the tender pork cheeks, artichoke hearts, and the restaurant’s famous pork and black pudding sandwich.

3pm

Still popular in Spain, bullfighting has long been part of Spanish culture. For some insight, head inside the museum at Real Maestranza. The bullring was built in the 18th-century and is the oldest – and most impressive – in the country.

8pm

After a siesta back at your hotel, turn your attention to Mercado Lonja del Barranco. Found next to the river in El Arenal, this contemporary food market – a dazzling glass and wrought iron warehouse – is the perfect place to sample a variety of cuisines. You’ll catch aromas of succulent Galician octopus stew from Spain’s north-west, spicy patatas bravas, creamy goat cheese pizza, and meat-stuffed burritos. Take your order outside and enjoy it on the terrace beneath the bougainvillea, overlooking the river.

Day Three

11am

Enjoy a sweet and slow start to the day at Bar el Comercio, known widely as the home of the city’s best churros. Don’t be shy – enjoy as many as your appetite allows. For more than 100 years, this retro eatery has served fried doughy treats to the masses. See what the fuss is all about and order a bowl, and don’t forget to dip them into a cup of thick hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence.

12pm

Coast along to nearby Casa de Pilatos. Buy a ticket and wander around this gorgeous 15th-century mansion. The architecture is jaw-dropping in its beauty, with a blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance detailing. Trace the patterns of the colorful tiles embellishing the walls as you wander deeper into the building, passing beautiful arches as you enter the ornate courtyard.

2pm

Take a rest in Bar Alfafa on Calle Candilejo for traditional tapas. Sample this tiny eatery’s moreish paella, tuck into Iberian ham and savor a bowl of refreshing salmorejo – a soup made from tomatoes, bread, oil, and garlic. If you have room for more, the Italian owners have also added a few of their favorite home dishes to the menu, including an incredible Sicilian bruschetta.

4pm

Stroll in the sunshine along the labyrinth-like streets to Metropol Parasol. This mushroom-like wooden structure provides a striking contrast to the historic wonders packed into the city. Zoom up to the rooftop in an elevator and roam the walkway for spectacular views of the neighborhood and beyond.

7pm

Freshen up at the hotel and then set off for the Flamenco Museum. While the exhibit showcasing the history of this passionate dance is intriguing, the nightly performances are the true stars of the show. Take a seat in the courtyard and watch performers in lavish outfits play out this dramatic spectacle to the soundtrack of infectious Spanish rhythms.

9pm

Finish off your venture in Seville’s oldest establishment, El Rinconcillo, along the narrow Calle Gerona. The history here stretches all the way back to 1670. From the Manchego cheese tortilla and homemade croquettes to Iberian pork cheeks and salty anchovies, the tapas offer a timeless taste of Seville. If you’re not driving, try pairing it with a glass of manzanilla sherry for the full experience.

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