Curator’s statement
My first impression of Seville was that it was a city that lives and breathes joy. The city exudes a vibrant energy that is so contagious I didn’t want to leave. The warm weather and sunny skies bring everyone outdoors, filling the cafés and plazas with locals and tourists alike, soaking up the sun and the culture. The stunning architecture tells the stories of centuries past—from the intricate façade of the Seville Cathedral to the mix of cultural influences of the Royal Alcázar. Wandering through Barrio Santa Cruz felt as though I had stepped into a postcard, with its narrow alleys and cozy hidden spots. Seville quickly stole my heart and became my favorite city in Spain!
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Day 1: Strolls and tapas
Assuming you have two full days, start your day with breakfast at La Mala Brunch Rivero. Don’t be put off if there is a line. The breakfast there is fantastic with a good variety of menu options.
After breakfast, head over to Plaza de España — the most iconic spot in the city. Take time to admire the mosaic alcoves depicting each of the provinces of Spain. For a unique way to experience the plaza, rent a boat and row through the canal. Be sure to visit the central balcony for the best view of the entire plaza.
Take a leisurely stroll through Maria Luisa Park, located just across from Plaza de España. This is the city’s central park and a serene green space with ponds, tiled benches and fountains. Take the trail to the botanical garden.
Time for tapas! Cross over the Isabel II Bridge and head to Triana for a tapas tour. This lively neighborhood is deeply rooted in flamenco culture and offers an authentic Andalusian experience away from the tourist center of Sevilla. The tapas tour will take you to some of Triana’s most beloved tapas bars where you will taste a variety of tapas selections as well as experience walking down some of Triana’s vibrant streets. Take notice of the balconies with their intricate ironwork and the colorful tilework on the building's façades. After the tour, explore the area on your own as there is plenty to see! A few places to note include:
• Santa Ana Church, Seville’s oldest church and worth a visit.
• Triana Market, a bustling market built on the remnants of an old castle.
• Calle Betis, a waterfront street with beautiful views of Sevilla across the Guadalquivir River.
Watch the sunset from Las Setas (the Mushroom). This is the world’s largest wooden structure, and the rooftop walkways are a great place to see panoramic views of the city at sunset. At night, the structure is illuminated in a light show.
End the day with dinner at Restaurante Eslava — a favorite among tourists and locals. The slow-cooked egg-on boletus cake with caramelized wine sauce is a must-try!
Day 2: History and charm
Have breakfast at a local café before heading over to the Royal Alcázar, one of the oldest palaces still in use today. The beautifully preserved rooms and expansive gardens will keep you captivated. Allow a couple of hours to take in the palace’s rich history and stunning details. Timed entry tickets often sell out online, so as soon as you know the date of your visit, purchase your tickets on the official website. This will allow you to bypass the long ticket line when you arrive.
Next, make your way to the Seville Cathedral, just a short walk from the Royal Alcázar. This Gothic cathedral is one of the largest of its kind. Climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of Seville or for a different option, climb the Giralda Bell Tower for similar views. This climb is made up of ramps that were originally designed to accommodate riders on horseback!
By now, you will have worked up an appetite, so head over to Bar Alfalfa for lunch. This is a cozy spot, but it has a great vibe. Go straight to the bar to order, find a table and prepare to enjoy a delicious lunch.
After lunch, walk over to the charming Barrio Santa Cruz. This is the historic Jewish quarter, and the beauty of visiting this area is getting lost in the narrow, winding streets! Charming, picturesque and the perfect place to wander in the afternoon.
Cap off the day with a flamenco show. Seville is known for its flamenco culture, and seeing a live performance is a must. There are several venues around the city that offer dinner and a show where you can enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine while enjoying the performances of flamenco dancers and musicians.
Need to know
Travel Tip:
Best months to visit are March–May and September–October, for mild weather and fewer crowds. July and August are months you should consider avoiding, as temperatures are unbearably hot and quite uncomfortable during the day.
Travel Advisor
Alicen Holmes
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Seville. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Melanie Panchal's guide, 3 Family-Friendly Days in Seville, Spain.