Spain’s cities have long enticed travellers to their borders. From the likes of Barcelona’s architectural marvels to Madrid’s thriving cityscape, and Valencia’s alluring coastline, visitors flock from far and wide to experience the country’s captivating culture and learn of its fascinating history.
Whilst the destinations mentioned above are some of the most famed and favoured by travellers, there’s one city that shines as bright as the rest, if not brighter. Seville, the capital of the Andalucia region, captures the hearts of all those who visit its colourful tile-clad buildings and discover its deep-rooted traditions.
For lovers of Spain, or those only beginning to uncover what this European gem has to offer, Seville is a spectacular destination to visit that makes for a wonderful weekend or mid-week break. Three days is more than enough time to uncover its vast and varied offerings, in my opinion, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone contemplating where to go for their next Spanish getaway.
So, if this Spanish city has captured your attention, read on to see exactly what the city has in store for you in this guide on what to do in Seville for 3 days. Whether you’re a lover of the arts, an architectural aficionado, or a fan of the finer things in life, this city will have you completely mesmerised.
The best time to visit Seville is in late spring to early summer or from late summer to early autumn. Seville has one of the hottest summers in Europe, with temperatures even climbing to above 40°C during this season. As such, you don’t want to be travelling here during the height of the summer period as you’ll likely be spending much of your time trying to cool off in the fierce heat.
As these times of year straddle the peak summer period, when most tourists flock to the city, you’ll find lower prices than if you were to visit during the height of this season. So, you’ll likely secure a saving for your trip to Seville whilst also avoiding fiery temperatures if you travel at these times of the year – a win-win!
Seville is a very walkable city. So, wherever you choose to stay, as long as you’re within the city centre you can easily access all of the best sights and top attractions in Seville. Regardless of your preferences and budgets, you’ll find something to suit the duration of your stay while visiting Seville. But, to help you along the way and offer some inspiration, I’ve rounded up my top three accommodation recommendations suited for luxury, mid-range, and budget travellers.
You should book the Hotel Casa Palacio Don Ramón if you’re a traveller who is looking to experience the finer side of Seville. This 5* accommodation situated in the heart of Seville Old Town is bursting with character and brimming with luxurious touches. This includes its seasonal outdoor swimming pool and its spacious rooms which have been opulently furnished for maximum comfort.
Coming in at a reasonable price for a central city break in Seville is the Hotel Casa Imperial. Situated in Seville old town, only a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral, this charming Andalucian-style mansion has many original features. These include its vibrant tiles that feature throughout the property and its tranquil galleries which perfectly embody the charm of Seville.
Visitors can stay in this hotel year-round, making it a convenient option that won’t put you out of pocket, which is why you should consider booking a stay here.
Taking the title of the best budget-friendly hostel, in my opinion, is New Samay Hostel. Also situated in Seville Old Town, this quaint accommodation has everything you could want and need for your stay during your trip to Seville, such as a communal kitchen, close proximity to the Alcázar Palace, and accessibility to the city’s major public transport stations. For a cheap city break in Seville, the New Samay Hostel is one to consider booking for your stay.
As previously mentioned, Seville is a walkable city destination that is easily navigable, and I’d say this is the best way to get around Seville. The city is the type of place where you’ll come across hidden gems as you explore its alleyways and cobbled streets, no doubt getting lost in every nook and cranny, so discovering it on foot is how you uncover its most authentic side.
But, for those who can’t travel on foot for long, using the city’s bus network is another alternative option to get around whilst visiting Seville. With 44 routes spread around the city, you can access different areas of Seville quickly, easily, and affordably. The C5 bus is the one that you’ll most likely use whilst exploring the city centre.
There are plenty of free things to do in Seville, and I’m starting this three-day recommended itinerary with a visit to two of the best sights that won’t cost you a penny. The first stop is the Plaza de España. This captivating square was built in 1928 and features beautiful patterned stone paving and picturesque tile frescoes, which is why it’s gained recognition from far and wide.
Meander around the plaza’s curved structure and admire the 52 frescoes that represent each Spanish province before walking over the many magnificent tiled bridges that cross its waterways. Once you’re done here, explore the wider park that the plaza calls home, known as Parque de Maria Luisa. Nurturing hundreds of exotic shrubs and trees, the park’s maze of shaded walkways leads you to a variety of beautiful structures and hidden treasures, including statues and Moorish fountains.
Once you’re done exploring this peaceful oasis in the city, venture onwards to Torre del Oro to continue your first day of Seville sightseeing. This military watchtower overlooks the Guadalquivir River and has stood proudly protecting the city since the 13th century. Now, you can climb to its very top for splendid views over the river, and you’ll even spot the top of the Giralda in the opposite direction.
Or, stop by the Bull Ring, also known as the Plaza de Toros. This 12,000-person capacity stadium still hosts bullfights to this day and is home to one of the world’s most well-known bullfighting festivals. Tours, where you can explore the bullring and its museum, are bookable online. So, if you’re looking to learn about the history of Spain’s unique bullfighting traditions you can secure your space and add this to your Seville itinerary today.
After your first day filled with Seville sightseeing, you’ll uncover some of the most spectacular historic and architectural sights in the city that will have you captivated from every angle.
To begin, you’ll journey to Seville’s most recognisable sights that dominate its landscape by peeking over the red-tiled roofs of the city – the Cathedral of Seville and the Giralda.
A UNESCO-recognised site, La Giralda and Seville Cathedral are some of the city’s most treasured landmarks which have made their mark in the history books. Roam through the cathedral, whose rose window is mesmerising, and spot the tomb of Christopher Colombus, the world’s most famous explorer.
Now, get ready to work up a sweat as you head to the top of the Giralda – the city’s bell tower – which was originally the minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville. Towering 104m in height, you can reach the top by winding up 34 sloping ramps. Whilst the journey is exhausting it is worth the effort, with some of the best views of Seville from above visible from the very top of the tower.
Once you’ve made your descent, cross over the Avenida de la Constitutión through a small alleyway in its row of shops and storefronts to find the tucked-away Plaza de Cabildo. If you’re thinking of what to do in Seville on Sundays (should you be visiting the city on a weekend) this is one to add to the list. This semicircular square hosts a market, selling everything from collectables to archaeological pieces and camera items, every week on Sundays, and you’re guaranteed to find a hidden treasure or two here.
Next, journey to the Real Alcázar, another one of the city’s most prized and precious sights. It is the royal palace of the city and was built by the Castillians. Visitors can freely roam its tile-clad interiors with tranquil waterways and fountains, as well as its thriving garden, when they visit Seville.
To end your day of sightseeing, meander through one of the most famous areas of Seville – the Jewish Old Quarter, which is also known as Barrio de Santa Cruz. It is built of narrow cobbled streets that weave between old, characterful buildings, with bars and boutique shops at every turn. You’ll easily get lost here, and you’ll love it.
Tickets that combine a visit to the Real Alcázar with entry to the Giralda and the Cathedral are available online, which is the easiest way to gain access to all three of these exceptional sights in one purchase. If you want the most convenient option when sightseeing Seville’s major landmarks, this ticket is for you.
Start the final day of your 3 day Seville itinerary filling your belly with some tempting traditional dishes and local produce. Opening daily in the early morning, the Mercado de Triana, which is situated in Seville’s area of Triana, is a bustling indoor market that features local vendors selling some of the tastiest treats. From fresh fruits and vegetables to high-quality cuts of meat, you can even stop here for some tapas at one of its food stalls or an osteria for some local delicacies to give you the fuel you need to start the day.
Once you’re sated, walk to Casa de Pilatos – a famed Andalucian Palace known for its spectacular tiling, ornate archways, and feature fountain in its square. It’s one of the top attractions in Seville and without a doubt one of the most beautiful, which is why you should consider stopping by on day 3 of your itinerary. You can even book a private visit here, and to the popular Casa Salinas, for a more intimate visit.
For another gorgeous architectural sight, but one that is admired in a whole other way, the Setas de Sevilla can be reached easily from the Casa de Pilatos. These metal mushrooms dominate a square in the centre of the city and are a truly unique structure. Visitors can head to the top, should they wish, for an alternative lookout point over the city.
To end the final evening of your 3 days in Seville on a high, spend it admiring one of the city’s most captivating cultural art forms – Flamenco. Seville is one of the birthplaces of Flamenco, which is all the more reason to watch a performance during your visit. The area of Triana in particular is famed for its Flamenco, with many authentic bars and theatres in its area hosting shows regularly, which I would personally recommend.
The Teatro Flamenco Triana is one of the best of these, with spectacular performances daily meaning that you can book your space regardless of the days that you’re visiting the city.
The birthplace of art forms, the home of architectural marvels, and with a captivating historical past, Seville is an all-around mesmerising location that not only has my heart but has the hearts of thousands of travellers around the globe.
I hope that this guide to what to do in Seville for 3 days has offered you the inspiration you need to craft the perfect trip for you. Regardless of your travel wants and needs, Seville will undoubtedly deliver.
Seville is considered to be a safe European city to visit. Even if you’re considering exploring the city when it comes to life at night, crime rates are low, making it a safe destination.
But, as with any city, you should always keep your wits about yourself by staying vigilant, keeping your belongings with you at all times, and not venturing into any unlit, or unpopulated, areas.
As one of Spain’s most charming cities, it’s without a doubt that visiting Seville is well worth your time and money. Its streets and sights are incomparable to any other destination in the country, which is why it’s one of my top cities to visit in Spain and why I’d urge you to take the plunge and visit Seville whenever you get the chance.
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