3 Days in Seville, Spain | 19 Best Things to Do + Map

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Seville is the perfect location for a Spanish city break. Stroll along gorgeous tree-lined streets, marveling at the absolutely amazing Moorish architecture, and stopping by authentic tapas bars whenever you fancy a break. Add the glorious Mediterranean climate to the mix, and you’ve found a destination that will undoubtedly capture your heart.

Based on our own trip to the sun drenched region of Andalusia in southern Spain, we have created this suggested itinerary covering some of the best things to see and do on your 3 day trip to Seville. I hope you love this city as much as we do!

3 Days in Seville: Itinerary Overview

Day 1 | Plaza de España, Parque de María Luisa, Santa Cruz and the Real Alcázar of Seville

Day 2 | Triana, Torre del Oro, Palacio de las Dueñas, the Antiquarium, Las Setas (the Mushrooms of Seville) and Alameda de Hércules

Day 3 | Seville Cathedral, Giralda and rooftop tour, Church of the Divine Savior, Casa de Pilatos and Flamenco

Plus Optional Half Day Trip Suggestion

Map of Seville Attractions

>>> Save our map of places to go, eat and drink in Seville <<<

Best things to do in Seville: A 3 Day itinerary

Day 1: Morning

1. Tostadas – a delicious Breakfast Staple!

Kick-start your day with light-but-mouthwatering tostadas. Typically this will be white bread roll that is lightly toasted and topped with fresh tomato, garlic, and a generous amount of olive oil. You’ll find different toppings available like ham or cheese, but the simple pan con tomate (bread with tomato) is my personal favourite. This is a great budget option too, as it typically costs under 2 euros, although this can vary depending on toppings.

2. Plaza de España

After breakfast head to Plaza de España. Built around 100 years ago for the Ibero-American exposition, this picture-perfect crescent-shaped building is an incredibly pretty spot to while away a couple of hours. Feel the cooling mist of the giant fountain, listen to the clip-clop of the horses and watch people row boats along the waterway, which is crisscrossed by four bridges representing the ancient kingdoms of Spain. 

The iconic plaza has hosted many events and has even been featured in films such as Lawrence of Arabia and star wars Star Wars Episode II.

Not only is this plaza spectacular to observe from a distance, but there is also so much beauty in the details. Look down as you walk across the plaza to see tiles on the floor, enjoy the decorative ceramics and rest your feet in one of the 48 alcoves, each one showcasing a different province in Spain.

You might catch a free flamenco performance while you’re there, so grab yourself a spot in the shade and enjoy the show. 

After exploring the grand verandas walk the upper floor to take in the views of the buzzing plaza.

3. Parque de María Luisa

Opposite the square is Parque de María Luisa – the most famous park in Seville.

With the tree-lined pathways, the water features, the colourful flowers and the wildlife this has to be one of the most beautiful parks I have been lucky enough to have visited. Take your time strolling around the shady park. It’s the perfect place to rest, enjoy a picnic lunch and listen to the sound of the birds singing all around you

Tips for Parque de María Luisa & Plaza De España

• Don’t eat the oranges! They are actually very bitter, so good for making marmalade but not so good for a morning snack.
• Public toilets are not something you will find easily in Seville, however there are paid public toilets just opposite Plaza De Espana (bring cash!) and some free toilets in Parque De Maria Louisa.

Day 1: Afternoon

4. Barrio de Santa Cruz

After spending the morning soaking in the plaza and park enjoy the short pleasant walk to Santa Cruz — the old Jewish quarter of Seville. This vibrant neighbourhood is a warren of narrow streets, shops and tapas bars. While you explore this colourful maze, look out for Callejon del Agua, also known as Water Alley, where historic pipes once carried water to the Alcazar gardens.

At the end of the street is Plaza Alfaro. You might see people taking photos of this rather dreamy-looking balcony, which is believed to have inspired the Barbar of Seville. I will admit I know pretty much nothing about opera, but it’s still worth stopping to admire Rosina’s balcony.

5. Real Alcázar de Sevilla

Tip: If you’re pressed for time, consider swapping Santa Cruz with the Real Alcázar on your itinerary, and then explore the neighborhood afterward.

Around mid-afternoon visit the Real Alcázar, a UNESCO world heritage site that is a must-do on your visit to Seville. The alcázar is incredibly popular with visitors so book your ticket online in advance to avoid the long queue.

For over 1000 years this site has been a royal residence and is still used by the Spanish Royal Family today, making it the oldest active royal palace in Europe.

In this grand complex of palaces, courtyards and lush gardens there is a merging of Mudejar, Islamic, Gothic and Renaissance styles, influenced by the different rulers over the centuries. More recently the alcázar was understandably used as the stunning Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones. 

While you explore the site notice the exquisite detail all around you, including the floors and ceilings. 

Take your time strolling the extensive gardens, filled with geometric pruned hedges, colourful flowers, strutting peacocks, and ornate tiles. Linger around the peaceful ponds and listen to the gentle sound of trickling water.

Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
Before visiting I read to give ourselves around 1 to 2 hours at the Alcazar, however we were easily there for at least 3. I would therefore suggest allocating around 2-3 hours to your visit, especially if you opt for the additional ticketed option to visit the Upper Royal Rooms. 

Tips for visiting the Real Alcázar de Sevilla

• Tour groups tend to visit late morning to early afternoon, so try to visit first thing or late afternoon to avoid peak hours.
• Book your ticket online in advance, although if you are visiting outside of peak times you might be okay to buy on the day. However if you know you are going to visit then I think it’s best to play it safe and book online before you go, plus you will avoid the queue for the ticket office.
• Make sure you bring water with you, but if you do forget then there is a drinking water fountain in the gardens and a small cafe.

Day 1: Evening

6. Tapas

By now you are probably ready for a rest, whether that be relaxing in the gorgeous Murillo Gardens behind the Royal Alcázar, popping back to your accommodation to freshen up, or sitting at a bar with an ice cold drink.  

If you’re looking for dinner in the area then we really enjoyed Bodeguita Romero, a traditional tapas bar known for serving the best pringa in Seville. This is a small sandwich filled with stewed pork, chorizo and blood sausage. We also enjoyed carrillada de ternera (stewed beef cheek) and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas).

How much does tapas cost?

Alternative Things to do on Day 1

If you find you are covering our itinerary at a quicker pace or you simply want to switch something that we suggested out for a different activity then here are a couple of additional options you could consider for day 1:

• Hospital los Venerables (Santa Cruz neighbourhood): Formally a hospital, today it houses a small collection of masterpieces from the Spanish Golden Age.
• Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions (in Maria Louisa Park): A museum dedicated to the ethnological heritage of Andalusia.

Day 2: Morning

7. Barrio de Triana

The laid back Triana neighbourhood is the birthplace of famous flamenco artists, bullfighters, and potters. This charismatic neighbourhood feels worlds away from the tourist hub of Seville’s centre.

Start by crossing Puente de Isabel II (aka Triana Bridge) that connects the centre of Seville with Triana. As you set foot on the oldest iron bridge in Spain, marvel at its historic significance, once replacing a pontoon bridge ingeniously crafted from interconnected floats and boats to facilitate the passage of pedestrians and vehicles alike.

Mercado de Triana

After crossing the bridge, drop down into Mercado de Triana (Triana Market). We would advise starting your day here as, although the market shows on Google as being open until 5pm, when we arrived shortly after 12 several stalls had already closed down.

This local food market is packed with vendors selling fresh fruit vegetables, meat and fish, with some restaurants available if you want to try the food. We were happy to find a stall selling fresh mango juice – perfect on a hot day!

Museo Del Castillo De San Jorge

Next to Triana Market is Museo Del Castillo De San Jorge — a small museum on the Spanish Inquisition. 
This was closed for renovation during our visit, however it has since reopened. Now information panels and video installations guide you through the ancient ruins. Peer into the very cells that once held prisoners and immerse yourself in accounts from authentic trial documents.

Centro Ceramica

Just a short walk from Triana market lies Centro Ceramica Triana (a small ceramics museum). Set in a restored ceramics factory, here you can learn about the history of Triana’s tile production. Don’t miss the unique ceramic advertising signs displayed on the walls! This is a fairly small museum so you will probably only spend about an hour here.

Remember, your Real Alcázar ticket includes the Centro Ceramica and a discount for the San Jorge Museum!

Where to eat in Triana

If you are looking for food while exploring Triana, while Calle Betis is a popular option our favourite meal of the trip was at Bar Triana, a small friendly tapas bar offering excellent food for great value.

We particularly liked the chicken with whisky sauce that our server recommended. We enjoyed it so much that we actually returned here for our final night.

8. Torre del Oro

Follow the river and cross the next bridge to see Torre del Oro.  This military observation tower offers lovely views down the river and there is even a small naval museum inside. The museum is only small, so you will probably only spend around 30 minutes to 1 hour here.

Day 2: Afternoon

9. Palacio de las Dueñas

Meander through the beautiful streets to the 15th-century Palacio de las Dueñas. This palace is a mixture of Gothic and Mudejar styles and was a much-loved home of one of Spain’s most famous aristocrats, Duchess de Alba. 

As you enter you will be greeted with lush gardens and the jaw-dropping palace facade. While it is interesting to walk around the palace rooms filled with various paintings, tapestries and memorabilia, for us it had to be the gardens that were the highlight. 

Stroll passed citrus trees, flowers, water features and this absolute whopper of a tree. Take a seat and enjoy the tranquillity.

Tip: Included in your ticket is an audio guide that you can access using your phone so you will find it helpful to take headphones with you.  

Day 2: Evening

10. Antiquarium de Sevilla

After spending approximately 2 hours at the palace, take a 5-minute walk to the Antiquarium, an archaeological museum situated below the Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas, which we will come to shortly.

This small museum showcases the Roman and Moorish ruins that were unearthed when the Metropol Parasol was constructed. Raised walkways and glass flooring allow you to get a good view of the remains. Here you’ll see houses with columns, wells and intricate mosaics. You will probably need around 45 minutes for your visit.

11. Setas de Sevilla

Shaped like interconnecting mushrooms, Las Setas claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world and offers some wonderful views over the rooftops of Seville.

If you visit once the sun has gone down then the wooden walkways are transformed with an ambient sound and light show. In my opinion it was worth being up there after dark!

You can purchase your ticket online in advance or wait and buy them at the entrance to Las Setas, either from a ticket machine or over the counter. 

Tip: The best time to visit is just before sunset so you can experience both sunset and the night show from the top of the mushroom!

12. Alameda de Hércules

Once you’re back at ground level, if you’re looking for a place to enjoy drinks and perhaps something to eat, Alameda De Hercules is just a 10-minute walk away. This vibrant tree-lined plaza is brimming with bars and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to grab a beer and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Alternative Things To Do On Day 2

• Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla (Seville Museum of Fine Arts)
• Acuario de Sevilla (Seville Aquarium)
• Plaza de toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (Seville’s bull ring). Do know that you can tour the arena and museum without needing to watch a bullfight.

Day 3: Morning

13.  A local breakfast to indulge your sweet tooth!

Before heading to your first attraction of the day, start your morning with churros con chocolate. These golden, deep-fried dough sticks are served with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping.

We recommend Bar El Comercio although be warned, these churros are huge!

14.  Catedral de Sevilla

Need to know: be aware that there is a dress code so remember to bring something to cover your shoulders.

Once you are full of churros, roll to the enormous Seville Cathedral. Built on the site of the city’s former mosque, Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic church and the third-largest church in the world. It took over 100 years to build and houses over 80 different chapels. 

Not only is the sheer scale of this UNESCO world heritage site impressive but the ornate interior is completely breathtaking. 

Gaze up at the magnificent gold alter piece and look out for the tomb of Christopher Columbus. 

There are several ticket options available with prices starting from €11.00

All above ticket options are available to book on the Cathedral website.

Tip: If you don’t book your ticket in advance then I would suggest buying it from the Church of the Divine Saviour rather than the cathedral as the queue will be shorter.

15. La Giralda

Climb the bell tower of the cathedral, known as “La Giralda”. La Giralda used to be part of the Great Mosque of Seville before it was transformed into the Moorish bell tower we see today.

Instead of steps leading to the top, la Giralda has 35 steadily inclining ramps. Ramps were used so the sultan could ride his horse to the top rather than taking the stairs, so if you are happy you don’t have to climb a load of steps on your visit then you know who to thank!

Once at the top you’ll be rewarded with some fantastic views of Seville.

16. Cathedral Rooftop Tour

While visiting the cathedral you could take a rooftop tour. During this 90 minute tour a guide covers the history and architecture of the cathedral, while giving you plenty of time to walk around and take in the panoramic views. Not only is walking around on the roofs of the cathedral a unique experience, but you will also see the cathedral interior from a different perspective as you cross the walkways from one staircase to another.

Tip: As there are only a limited number of small group tours per day I would recommend booking in advance. You may have to be flexible about when you fit the tour into your itinerary as it will only be available at a few set times throughout the day.

However, reviews from people who were unable to book on one a tour in their own language who then booked the Spanish one said it was still worth it to access the cathedral rooftops, even without understanding the tour guide.

If you do decide to skip the rooftop tour then you could instead spend more time exploring the shop lined streets of the historic city centre.

17. Church of the Divine Saviour

Around 5 minutes from Seville Cathedral is the Church of the Divine Saviour, which is included with your Cathedral and Giralda ticket.

Built on the site of a former mosque it is now a Roman Catholic church. You can spot the lovely pink church as it gazes over the bustling Plaza del Salvador. Once you step inside you’ll see stunning stained glass windows and a truly elaborate altar.

18. Casa de Pilatos

Next, walk around 10 minutes to the breathtaking Casa De Pilatos.

This 16th-century civil palace was built on the order of Don Pedro Enriquez and later his son Fadrique Enriques de Ribera. Casa De Pilatos was named after Pontius Pilate, inspired by Fadrique’s pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

This gem of a building is a blend of Italian Renaissance, Mudejar and Gothic styles.

Once you arrive you will enter a stunning courtyard flanked by marble statues and busts of Spanish kings, Roman emperors and other historical figures

From here explore beautifully decorated rooms and serene gardens. Look out for the coats of arms on the ceiling of the praetor’s room, the extravagant ceiling in the golden room and of course this amazing staircase made of marble and surrounded by tiles. 

Just like Palacio de las Dueñas, admission includes an audio guide that you can listen to using your phone. Plan to spend around an hour here. 

19. Flamenco

If you enjoyed your taster at Plaza De España  then we would recommend ending your night with a Flamenco Show — you are in the birthplace of flamenco after all! 

We headed over to catch a show at La Casa Del Flamenco in the charming Santa Cruz neighbourhood. The show was set in a cosy courtyard with no microphones or amps in sight, just pure, unadulterated sound. We were completely blown away talent of the artists and were completely captivated from start to finish!

Alternative Things To Do On Day 3

• Flamenco Dance Museum
• Archive of the Indies (where records of Spain’s colonial history are held)

Seville 3 Day Itinerary Video Guide

What to do in Seville if you have more than 3 days?

Bonus half Day Trip: Italica Ruins

If you have more than 3 days in Seville and are up for venturing just outside of the city then the Roman ruins of Italica are well worth the half-day trip. Walking through the excavated remains of the old Roman city is fascinating, but the highlight has to be the 25,000-seat amphitheatre. 

Tips for visiting the Italica Ruins

• In warmer months go as early as you can because it’s hot and the site is very exposed. We would also suggest starting with the ruined city as there is no shade there, before exploring the amphitheatre.
• Make sure you bring plenty of water.
• There is no need to book this in advance unless you want to do a guided tour of Italica from Seville.

How many days in Seville are enough?

We think you should aim to spend at least 3 full days in Seville. This will give you enough time to see the main sights plus a couple of lesser visited attractions without having to rush.

If you’re visiting in the height of summer then because of the heat you may find you want to take things at a slower pace than you normally would for a city break, so do bear that in mind when planning your trip.

Want to find out more about visiting Spain?
Read our other Spain travel guides
or watch our Spain travel videos on YouTube

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