Headed to Seville for a quick day trip? Or maybe you only have one day to explore this beautiful Andalusian gem before heading off to another destination? No matter the reason, if you find yourself with only one day in Seville, this is the itinerary for you!
With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and food scene, and rich history, Seville is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cities in all of Europe.
A visit to Seville is like taking a step back in time. With it’s narrow streets and alleyways and Moorish churches and cathedrals, the city can sometimes feel like it’s frozen in time.
And while a day in Seville alone may not seem like enough time to do this city justice, with a little planning you can easily see the best that Seville has to offer.
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- How to get to Seville
- How to get around Seville
- When is the best time to visit Seville
- Where to stay in Seville
- How to spend one day in Seville
- Be amazed at Catedral De Seville (Seville Cathedral) & The Giralda Tower
- Wander through the Jewish Quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz
- Explore the Royal Palace Complex of Alcazar Seville
- Tour the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold)
- Wonder at the Plaza De España
- Stroll through Maria Luisa Park
- Take a break at Plaza Nueva
- Cross the Puente De Isabel II and explore the Triana Neighbourhood
- Got more time to spend in Seville?
- FAQs about Seville
- Conclusion to one day in Seville
How to get to Seville
The Andalusian capital of Seville is located in southern Spain, and is easily accessible by plane, train, car and even boat.
- By plane: The city’s international airport, San Pablo Airport, is located just 10km from the city center. Once you land, there are plenty of transportation options to get you into the city, including buses, taxis and rental cars.
- By train: Seville is well-connected by train, with service to and from major Spanish cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Granada. The main train station is Santa Justa Station and you can get to the city centre in just a few minutes from there.
- By car: If you’re driving to Seville, the city is accessible via the A-4 highway. From Madrid, the drive is just over 4 hours. From Barcelona, it’s about an 8-hour drive. And from Granada, it’s approximately 3 hours.
- By boat: Seville sees many cruise ships docking at its port, which is located just a short distance from the city center. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’ll have no problem getting into the city to explore.
How to get around Seville
The best way to see the city is by foot. Walking allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the city at your own pace. Plus, it’s a great way to explore narrow streets and hidden alleyways that you would never find if you were driving.
Of course, walking isn’t always practical, especially if you’re trying to cover a lot of ground. In that case, the best way to get around is by bike. Seville has an extensive network of bike lanes, making it easy to get from one place to another without having to battle traffic.
If public transport is more your speed, Seville has an efficient bus and train system that can take you to all the major sights. If you plan on using public transport throughout your trip, you might want to consider purchasing a travel tourist pass which will give you access to busses, trains and the subway.
Finally, if you’re only in town for a short time, you may want to consider taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. These tours are a great way to see the city, and you can hop off at any stop that interests you.
When is the best time to visit Seville
If you’re looking for the best time to visit Seville, you’ll need to take into account a few different factors.
The weather is one important consideration – Seville is known for its hot summers, so if you’re not a fan of the heat, you may want to plan your trip for another time of year.
Between March and May, the weather is milder and the city is less crowded (other than during events), making it a great time to visit. October and November are also nice months to visit, as the weather is cooler but still pleasant.
Weather aside, many people favour to visit Seville is during its two most important festivals: Semana Santa and the Feria de Abril.
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a week-long celebration leading up to Easter Sunday. The city is filled with processions of elaborately dressed religious figures, and the atmosphere is electric.
The Feria de Abril, or April Fair, is a more light-hearted affair. Held each year two weeks after Semana Santa, it features music, parades, and lots of activities for visitors.
If you’re looking for atmosphere, Seville is the place to be during these two festive periods.
Where to stay in Seville
For a bit of luxury –
This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Seville’s historic city center, just steps away from popular attractions like the Cathedral and Alcazar Palace. The offers its guests a rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center, as well as a gourmet restaurant and bar.
Middle of the road –
The three-star is located in the Triana district of Seville, known for its ceramics and flamenco history. The hotel is just a short walk from the iconic Puente de Isabel II bridge, and features an outdoor pool, solarium, and buffet breakfast each morning.
To save the pennies –
is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. This hostel is located in the Santa Cruz district, just a short walk from Seville Cathedral. The hostel offers dormitory-style and private rooms, as well as a 24-hour reception desk, tour desk, and free WiFi.
How to spend one day in Seville
You’ve got all the information you need to make the most of your one day in Seville. Now it’s time to start planning your day!
Be amazed at Catedral De Seville (Seville Cathedral) & The Giralda Tower
No trip to Seville would be complete without a visit to the city’s iconic cathedral. This magnificent cathedral is the largest Gothic church in the world, and its immense size is sure to take your breath away.
In addition to its size, the cathedral is also notable for its lavish decoration. The interior is covered in intricate carvings, and the stained glass windows are truly works of art.
Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth spending an hour or two admiring this incredible building.
The exterior of the building is equally impressive, with its soaring towers and ornate details.
Construction of this Gothic Cathedral began in 1402 and took over 100 years to complete. The beautiful main façade, with its many intricate details, was not added until the 19th century.
While you can explore the interior of the cathedral for free, there is a small fee to enter the Giralda Tower. Climbing the tower is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Seville from above.
Skip the line to the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower here!
Wander through the Jewish Quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz
Early morning is a great time to get lost in the narrow, winding streets of Seville’s Barrio Santa Cruz, the historic centre of Seville. This former Jewish Quarter is one of the most atmospheric parts of the city, and it’s filled with hidden plazas, picturesque patios, and historic landmarks.
If you’re interested in Jewish history, you can also visit the Centro de Interpretacion, located in an old synagogue in the Barrio Santa Cruz.
Want to learn more about the area? Why not take a guided walking tour around Barrio Santa Cruz? Find out more here.
Explore the Royal Palace Complex of Alcazar Seville
After exploring the Barrio Santa Cruz, make your way to Seville’s Alcazar Palace. This royal palace complex was built in the 14th century by the Moorish rulers of Seville, and it’s considered one of the finest examples of Mudéjar architecture in the world.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of a series of interconnected courtyards, gardens, and buildings. Highlights include the Palace of King Don Pedro, the Salon de Embajadores, and the Baths of Lady María de Padilla.
Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. The landscaping is incredibly intricate, and you’ll find yourself marveling at the skill of the gardeners. There are also several fountains and sculptures scattered throughout the complex, so keep your eyes peeled for those as well.
In the palace itself, the rooms are lavish and opulent, and you’ll get a real sense of what it was like to live like a royal. Be sure to take some time to admire the art on the walls and ceilings – it’s truly breathtaking.
Skip the line for entry and get a wonderful guided tour here.
Tour the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold)
Next, make your way to the Torre del Oro, located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River.
Built in the 13th century, this tower was once used as a watchtower to protect the city from invaders. During the middle ages, it also served as a prison.
Today, it stands as a symbol of Seville’s rich cultural heritage and is the home to a naval museum.
The museum chronicles the city’s long maritime history and displays antique shipping maps, navigational instruments, and models of famous Spanish ships.
The museum is located on the top floor of the tower so you’ll get to enjoy sweeping views of the river and the city as you explore.
Wonder at the Plaza De España
Next on our one day in Seville itinerary is to make your way to the Plaza De España. This massive square was built in 1928 for Seville’s Ibero-American Exposition in 1929 and is adorned with tiles, fountains, and bridges. It is easy to spend hours exploring the Plaza De España, but here are a few of the highlights.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Plaza De España is its size. You can’t miss it! At nearly 50,000 square meters (that’s five football pitches!), it is one of the largest public squares in Spain.
You might actually recognise the Plaza as it was famously featured in movies such as Star Wars and Lawrence of Arabia.
The plaza is decorated with intricate tiles, and each of the alcoves represents a different province of Spain. The bridges crossing the central canal are decorated with beautiful mosaics, and there are fountains scattered throughout the square.
If you’re feeling tired after all that exploring, take a break in one of the many benches lining the plaza. You can sit and people watch, or take in the stunning views of Seville.
Stroll through Maria Luisa Park
You’ll have done a lot of sightseeing this morning, so next on the agenda is to take a leisurely stroll through Maria Luisa Park. This beautiful green space was once the private garden of the Palace of San Telmo but is now open to the public.
The park is a botanical garden, and you’ll find a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees. It’s the perfect place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle of the city.
There are also several fountains and sculptures throughout the park to wonder at.
Take a break at Plaza Nueva
After exploring Maria Luisa Park, make your way to Plaza Nueva. This is the main square in Seville and is a great place to take a break and people watch.
If you’re feeling hungry, there are several cafes and restaurants surrounding the square where you can grab a bite to eat.
And if you need to do some shopping, there are also several stores selling souvenirs and local products.
The plaza is built on land which used to form part of the San Fernando convent between 1270 and 1840. The land was later turned into the square it is today by the local government.
In the center of the square, you’ll find a monument to Seville’s most famous son, Christopher Columbus. The statue was erected in 1885 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of his voyage to America.
And on the north side of the square, you’ll find the Casa consistorial de Sevilla (Seville City Hall). This beautiful building was constructed in 1527 and is one of the oldest city halls in Spain.
Other buildings you’ll find within the square are the San Ofre Chapel, the Telefónica building and a monument of Ferdinand III.
Cross the Puente De Isabel II and explore the Triana Neighbourhood
Last up on our one day in Seville itinerary is to cross the river and explore the Triana neighbourhood.
If you’re looking for a true taste of Spanish culture, then you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Triana neighborhood in Seville. Just across the Puente de Isabel II bridge from the city center, Triana is known for its colorful ceramics, Flamenco music and dances, and delicious tapas.
Explore the winding streets and you’ll find plenty of hidden treasures, from art galleries to charming cafes.
Be sure to stop by the Iglesia de Santa Ana, a stunning church in Triana, with its beautiful Moorish-style architecture.
And of course, no visit to Triana would be complete without seeing a Flamenco show. So pull up a chair at one of the many tabancos (traditional Flamenco bars) and enjoy an evening of passionate music and dance.
Got more time to spend in Seville?
If you’re lucky enough to have more than 1 day in Seville, here are a few more ideas of things to do:
– Take a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River
– Go on an electric scooter tour of the city
– Go on a tapas crawl through Seville’s best bars
– Take a ride on the Seville hop on hop off bus
– Go on one of the many walking tours available
– Take a road trip to Cordoba
FAQs about Seville
Is one day in Seville enough time?
Absolutely! Seville is a compact city and it’s easy to explore on foot. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to see all the city’s main sights in just one day.
What is the best time of year to visit Seville?
The best time to visit Seville is between April and June when the weather is warm but not too hot.
What are some must-try dishes in Seville?
Some of the must-try dishes in Seville include Gazpacho, Salmorejo, Huevos rotos, Flamenquín, Tortilla de patatas, Paella and Tapas.
Is Seville safe?
Yes, Seville is a safe city to visit. However, as with any city, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and not leave your belongings unguarded in busy areas.
Conclusion to one day in Seville
Seville had my heart from the moment I arrived. it’s a city rich in culture, with plenty of things to see and do.
If you only have one day to spend in Seville, be sure to follow this itinerary to make the most of your time. From admiring the stunning architecture to enjoying some traditional Spanish cuisine, you’re sure to fall in love with Seville just like I did!