3 Days in Seville – The Perfect Seville Itinerary
3 Days in Seville – The Perfect Seville Itinerary
Itinerary for 3 Days in Seville – Guide and Tips
This itinerary is aimed at first-time visitors to Seville who want to be able to experience the key highlights and iconic landmarks in this wonderful Spanish city. We’ll break down an easy to follow day-by-day itinerary, including lots of helpful information to help you plan your time in the city.
Table of Contents
Seville Itinerary Day 1
Your first day in Seville will focus more on the historic side of Seville. You’ll start by exploring some of the most popular attractions, exploring the most historic and picturesque streets, before finishing with a spectacular sunset view over the Andalusian capital.
Seville Day 1 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
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Morning:Royal Alcazar | Royal Alcazar tickets start at €18.50 (Book Tickets Online). |
Morning: Seville Cathedral | Seville Cathedral tickets start at €16 (Book Tickets Online). |
Afternoon: Barrio Santa Cruz | Explore the former Jewish quarter of Seville and check out the bars, tapas and shops! We recommend the guided tour of the area for just €15, book in advance as it normally sells out. (Book Tour Here) |
Afternoon: Archivo de Indias | Entry to the archives is free! Just remember it closes on Mondays. |
Evening: Metropol Parasol (Las Setas) | Las Setas Seville tickets start at €22 with a free virtual experience (Book Tickets Online) |
Day 1 Morning – Royal Alcazar of Seville
You’ll start the day at one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks, the Alcazar, a royal palace with stunning gardens.
Even if you’ve never heard of it, the Royal Alcazar is one of those places that feels like you’ve seen it in movies or read about in history books. It’s a real gem, and it’s not just a place for history buffs or architecture enthusiasts; the unique design and beautifully maintained gardens make it one of the most photographed places in Seville.
Don’t miss the Patio de las Doncellas, a stunning courtyard, and the Hall of Ambassadors, where the Spanish monarchs received foreign dignitaries.
The highlight for us are the stunning gardens (see our photos below). Wander through the fragrant orange trees in the Patio de los Naranjos or get lost in the maze-like gardens of the Mercury Pond.
We recommend to start with the Royal Alcazar, and to start as early as possible. The palace and gardens does get busy later in the day, and can even get to a point where entry is restricted. So we advise to book tickets in advance and get there as early as possible to beat the crowds!
There are options to have a guided tour around the palace (recommended) where you’ll be given an audio guide in your chosen language and learn in-depth about the palace’s history.
You can pre-book tickets online here, with plenty of options including guided tours. The best value is to combine with entry to the Cathedral (up next) with a Super-Combi ticket (saving you money).
Day 1 Morning – Seville Cathedral
The next stop, and close by the the Alcazar is Seville Cathedral. Simply head northeast along Avenida de la Constitución, and in about a 10-minute walk, you’ll reach the stunning Seville Cathedral.
The Seville Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. When you step inside, you can’t help but be amazed by its size and grandeur. It’s known for being the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Inside, you’ll find stunning chapels, intricate altarpieces, and beautiful stained glass windows. Be sure to check out the tomb of Christopher Columbus – yes, the Christopher Columbus!
The Giralda Tower is a standout feature and is included in the entry price. It’s not just a tower; it’s a former minaret that offers an incredible panoramic view of Seville. The climb is a must for anyone visiting and is recommended for some excellent photo opportunities.
Tip – Save money on entry tickets to both the Alcazar and the Cathedral by purchasing a ‘Super Combi Ticket‘, granting you access to both attractions at a discounted rate and ensuring fast track entry (vital when busy).
Day 1 Lunch – Santa Cruz Neighbourhood
For a convenient and enjoyable lunch experience after visiting the Alcazar and the Cathedral, we recommend exploring the Santa Cruz neighbourhood. This charming area is filled with traditional Spanish restaurants and quaint tapas bars. You’ll find a variety of dining options and a lovely atmosphere to relax and try the local food.
To reach the Santa Cruz area simply head southeast along Calle Mateos Gago for 5-10 minutes.
Day 1 Afternoon – Explore the Historic Barrio Santa Cruz
The best way of describing the Barrio Santa Cruz area is that it’s like stepping back in time.
Formerly known as the ‘Jewish Quarter’, Santa Cruz is a charming, old part of town that’s packed with history and narrow, winding streets that make you feel like you’re in an old storybook or something from Game of Thrones. The buildings are super quaint, covered in colourful flowers, and the plazas are just perfect for pictures.
There are plenty of boutique shops in Santa Cruz. You can find unique souvenirs, ceramics, jewellery, and other traditional crafts. These are all nestled around beautiful quaint tapas bars and coffee shops to really re-charge the batteries after a busy morning sight-seeing.
So, take your time, wander around, and soak in all the old-school charm that Barrio Santa Cruz has to offer.
We highly recommend getting a guided tour of the old Jewish quarter, where you can learn some fabulous stories and history of the neighbourhood, that you won’t be able to find when exploring by yourself. Tickets for a guided tour are just €15. (Book Guided Tour Online).
Day 1 Afternoon – Archivo de Indias
For the rest of the afternoon we have another UNESCO World Heritage Site (two in one day, aren’t you lucky!).
The Archivo de Indias is all about preserving and showcasing the history of Spain’s overseas empire, and it’s full of old maps, letters, and other ancient records.
These materials provide insights into the exploration, colonisation, and administration of the Spanish territories in the Americas, as well as other parts of the world under Spanish rule.
The archive holds significant documents related to famous figures such as Christopher Columbus, Hernán Cortés, and Francisco Pizarro, offering a unique perspective on the Age of Exploration and the conquest of the New World.
Entry is free, just make sure you check the opening times, as it is limited on certain days of the week or on bank holidays.
Day 1 Evening – Metropol Parasol (Las Setas)
Next up is the Las Setas de Seville – a truly unique piece of contemporary architecture in the heart of Seville. Covering an area of over 1500 square metres, it is the largest wooden structure in the world, and without actually seeing it, it is hard to describe the sheer vastness of the place.
Las Setas is famous for its striking design resembling giant mushrooms, and it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. You can explore the winding walkways and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from the top.
We have saved visiting this iconic Seville landmark for the evening and when the sun begins to go down. Due to its fabulous views and (almost romantic) lighting, the Metropol Parasol is best viewed when dark, making for some stunning photos, and an electric atmosphere.
Thy even have an interactive virtual reality experience with glasses that allows you to see how Seville has developed through history – which is very special. Tickets include a guided tour, and entry, and is our pick for best value. Book your tickets online.
Day 1 Dinner – Mateos Gagos
After a busy day of sightseeing, you . We recommend heading to a chilled tapas bar for some relaxed drinks and food. An excellent area close to the centre (and the many attractions you have visited today is ‘Calle Mateos Gagos’. You would have walked down this street when going from the Cathedral to Barrio Santa Cruz.
This street is the place to get tapas in the centre of Seville, offering both traditional Seville food culture but in a tourist friendly atmosphere. Our favourite bar on this street is ‘La Sacristía Tapas‘ – it’s highly recommended if you want to try traditional tapas in a relaxed atmosphere.
Seville Itinerary Day 2
Your second day in Seville continues with some iconic landmarks, with a focus more on the beautiful outdoor spaces Seville has to offer. You will even be visiting the location of some Star Wars sets!
Seville Day 2 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
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Morning:Casa De Pilatos | General admission is €10 (Book Tickets Online). |
Morning: Seville Bullring | A tour of the bullring, as well as entry and skip-the-line starts at €25 (Book Tickets Online). |
Afternoon: Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park | Explore some of Seville’s finest outdoor spaces. Make sure you take a ride on the small row boats in the Plaza from just €6. |
Evening: Flamenco Show with Dinner | Traditional Flamenco show with dinner starts at €60 w(Book Tickets Online) |
Day 2 Morning – Casa De Pilatos
Start your second morning in Seville with a visit to the magnificent Casa de Pilatos palace. This 16th century palace is a blend of Spanish Mudéjar and Italian Renaissance architectural styles, creating a unique and opulent residence.
As you enter the grand courtyard with its double galleries and columned arcade, you already sense the palace’s grandiose elegance. The rooms are filled with traditional wood ceilings, marble floors and azulejo-tiled walls.
Don’t miss the underground baths with their tranquil pools and vaulted ceilings.
One of the highlights is the collection of ancient Roman sculptures dotting the palace, which inspired its name – ‘House of Pilate’. The lovely gardens provide a peaceful respite, with fountains, manicured hedges and citrus trees.
Tickets for the Casa de Pilatos can be booked online here.
Day 2 Morning – Seville Bullring
A short 15 minute walk from Casa De Pilatos will bring you to the Seville bull ring, Maestranza Plaza de Toros.
The bullring dates back to the 18th century and the architecture of the place is well worth a visit. It manages to blend multiple styles, including Baroque and Neoclassical elements, reflecting the evolving tastes and influences of the era.
Take a guided tour of the bullring and hear about the fascinating history of bullfighting and the heroic status the fighters achieved locally and throughout Spain. End by looking through the museum that is included with your entry ticket.
While it is not to everyone’s taste, it is fair to say that the art of bullfighting has been an integral part of the local history that has helped shape the culture of Seville and Southern Spain.
Book your tickets online, including a guided tour and access to the museum.
Day 2 Lunch – Mercado Lonja del Barranco
A great option for lunch after visiting the Seville bullring is ‘Mercado Lonja del Barranco’ – just a 5 minute walk away.
The market is known for its diverse selection of food and drink stalls. You can find a wide range of options, from traditional Spanish tapas to international cuisines. Seafood, Iberian ham, cheeses, sushi, gourmet sandwiches, and desserts are just a few examples of what’s on offer.
Day 2 Afternoon – Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park
The afternoon of day two is when you get to experience the outdoor spaces that Seville has to offer, and they really are beautiful.
Spend the afternoon exploring both the Plaza de Espana and the Maria Luisa Park, which are linked and part of each other.
The highlight of Plaza de España is the intricate ceramic tile work that is displayed along the semi circular walls, telling stories of Spain’s provinces in vivid detail. Each alcove represents a different region (from Madrid to Barcelona), with each one beautifully crafted and an excellent photo opportunity.
The plaza also has a special connection to the Star Wars universe. This iconic square served as one of the filming locations for ‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’.
The Plaza is designed around a semi-circular building with a central canal that runs beneath a series of beautiful bridges. Visitors have the opportunity (and we highly recommend) to rent rowboats to explore this canal and its surroundings.
The cost for a ticket to rent the boats is €6. A deposit of €4 is also required.
After you’ve finished at the Plaza, have a leisurely stroll around Maria Luisa park. It is a wonderfully peaceful park away from the bustling city and is a great way to get yourself mentally ready for an evening of passionate flamenco!
Day 2 Evening – Flamenco Show with Dinner
End your second day in Seville by combining one of Seville’s most iconic traditions with tapas and drinks.
Experiencing a Flamenco show with dinner in Seville is an absolute must for anyone visiting. It combines the passion of dance, the emotion of music, and the flavours of traditional Spanish cuisine all in one.
Our personal favourite show to attend is the ‘Flamenco Show with Andalusian Dinner at La Cantaora’. La Cantaora is a small, intimate and traditional venue that looks at recreating the atmosphere of the old Café Cantantes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The atmosphere and performances are raw, with no fancy stage productions, but pure emotionally-driven flamenco performances. If you want to see proper traditional flamenco dancing then this is the place for you.
The performance also comes with tapas, with two different menus to choose from – offering you a variety of local dishes. I’d be lying if I said it was fancy food, but it’s homely, delicious and what would be referred to in Spain as ‘proper’ tapas – locally approved!
This is a must-do when visiting Seville and the performance and atmosphere of the night will be a highlight of your trip. Book your tickets online and select a menu.
Seville Itinerary Day 3
On your final day in Seville you’ll be taking it easy, soaking in the atmosphere of the Triana. You will also be getting a new perspective of the city from the river to end your mini break in style.
Seville Day 3 Itinerary Summary and Tickets |
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Morning:Torre del Oro | General admission for adults is €3 and €1.50 for children and can be purchased at the door |
Morning: Guadalquivir River Boat Cruise | Ticket prices start from just €15 per person and are very likely to sell-out! (Book Tickets Online) |
Afternoon: Triana Neighbourhood | Explore the bustling Triana area and check out the bars, tapas and shops! |
Day 3 Morning – Torre del Oro (Gold Tower)
Start day 3 by visiting the Torre del Oro, or more commonly known as the ‘Gold Tower’. Built in the early 13th century, it served as a watchtower and defensive fortification during a time when Seville was a busy port city.
It has since been restored as a naval museum, and is well worth a visit due to its immense history and beautifully designed interior and exterior. In the right light, the tower is imperious and shines a beautiful golden colour.
Begin by exploring the historical exhibits inside the tower at the Naval Museum. This museum showcases an extensive collection of maritime artefacts, offering insights into Seville’s famous naval history.
Additionally, be sure to make your way to the top of the tower to take in the panoramic views of Seville, the Guadalquivir River, and its surroundings. This viewpoint provide a breathtaking perspective of the city’s beauty and architectural charm.
When you’ve finished, make your way down toward the River Guadalquivir and stroll along the river banks before deciding to jump on a boat!
Day 3 Morning – Guadalquivir River Boat Cruise
Spend the remainder of your morning taking a short one hour cruise along the River Guadalquivir.
This is a great way to get a different perspective of the city, offering stunning views and picture opportunities that you won’t be able to get on land.
We found that we were able to see many of the attractions we had visited on our trip so far in a different light, including glimpsing the Cathedral Tower, the Bullring and the Torre del Oro.
The boat has a small bar where you can purchase drinks and light snacks. Despite seeing some of attractions of previous days, the the guide gave interesting facts and stories that were all water-based making the experience unique and different.
The boat is completely solar powered and eco friendly, and was able to stop and give everyone ample time to take beautiful photos – even knowing where to stop at certain times of the day top get the best lighting!
A one hour boat cruise is just €15 and you can book online.
Day 3 Lunch – Triana
Grab some lunch in one of the many tapas bars or restaurants in Triana. It’s a beautiful leisurely stroll from the where you will be dropped off from the river cruise.
Many places in Triana offer picturesque views of the river and the Seville cityscape so it’s a great spot for a relaxing meal with a beautiful backdrop.
Triana is a foodies paradise so you’ll have no issues trying an array of delicious tapas. Maybe try one dish at each bar, making your own mini ‘tapas-crawl within Triana.
Day 3 Afternoon – Triana Neighbourhood
After lunch, close out your 3 days in Seville with a relaxing stroll around the Triana neighbourhood. There is plenty to do, and I could honestly spend all day wandering the beautiful streets in this historic neighbourhood, or watching the world go by sipping a coffee in one of the many cafes and bars.
Located on the west bank of the Guadalquivir River in Seville, Triana is one of the most iconic and vibrant districts in the city, known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional ceramic workshops, flamenco culture, and excellent cuisine.
If you’re looking for gifts and souvenirs, now is a great time to look for them. Triana has a centuries-old tradition of ceramic production. The neighbourhood is home to numerous ceramic workshops and studios where you can find beautifully hand-painted tiles, pottery, and other ceramic products.
If you have time you can even visit the Castillo de San Jorge, which was once a medieval fortress, and the Capilla de los Marineros, a church famous for its Semana Santa celebrations.
Day 3 Dinner – El Rinconcillo
We’re saving the best tapas bar for your last night, to end the trip on a high!
El Rinconcillo is a must-visit if you’re in Seville and want to get that authentic tapas experience. This place claims to be the oldest tapas bar in the city, dating back to 1670. Walking in, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s got wooden bar counters, antique tiles on the walls, and old barrels that just add to the charm.
This is the spot to try classic Andalusian tapas. Think slices of jamón (cured ham), plates of Manchego cheese, and dishes like salmorejo (a cold tomato and bread soup). They also serve a variety of local wines and beers to wash it all down.
You must visit when you’re in Seville!
3 Day Seville Itinerary Summary
- Day 1 – Royal Alcazar, Seville Cathedral, Barrio Santa Cruz, Archivo de Indias, Las Setas Sevilla.
- Day 2 – Casa De Pilatos, Seville Bullring, Plaza de Espana, Maria Luisa Park, Flamenco Show.
- Day 3 – Torre del Oro, Guadalquivir River Boat Cruise, Triana neighbourhood, El Rinconcillo.
Map for 3 Day Seville Itinerary
To help you visualise our 3-day Seville itinerary we’ve put together this map. It highlights most of the significant landmarks and attractions you’ll want to see. Luckily the majority of the recommended and best sights are in the city centre, making it easy to navigate and spend as much time enjoying this beautiful city.
How to Get Around Seville
Seville is very easy to navigate around, with most attractions situated in the centre, and plenty of public transport options available.
A great way to get around and learn about the city is also through the Hop-On Hop-off bus.
The Hop-On Hop-off bus is a popular way for tourists to explore the city’s major attractions at their own pace. These open-top, double-decker buses offer a hop-on-hop-off service, allowing passengers to disembark at various points of interest and rejoin the tour when they are ready. Tickets can be purchased online here and are typically available for varying durations, such as 24 or 48 hours.
Where to Stay in Seville – Accommodation and Hotels
Seville has a wide variety of accommodation options that suit all different budgets and preferences. The majority of Seville’s top attractions are based centrally, so we recommend you stay in the centre.
Visit our guide to the best neighbourhoods to stay in Seville or check out some of our favourite hotel options below:
Saving Money on Seville Attractions
Seville is definitely not one of the most expensive places in Europe, but multiple attraction tickets can eventually add up. There are plenty of free attractions, which we’ve included in our 3 day itinerary, but most of the most significant attractions do charge an entry fee.
There are ways you can save money on some of these more expensive attractions, and that is to purchase one of the few Seville attraction passes available.
Here is a selection of the best passes on offer currently to help you with your visit:
Seville Attraction Passes |
Save Money with these Seville PassesSeville Highlights Pass: Royal Alcazar, Seville Cathedral and a Flamenco Show! Seville Highlights:Seville Pass: |
Latest Ticket Deals
