Walter Ponce
Sevilla, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, beckons travelers with its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. With just 72 hours in Seville to explore this enchanting city, every moment is filled with awe-inspiring sights and delectable flavors waiting to be discovered.
Day 1: A Leisurely Start and Iconic Sights
Our journey begins with a delightful brunch at Milk Away, a charming brunch spot known for its delectable dishes and cozy atmosphere. Fueled up and ready to explore, we set off for a leisurely stroll along the scenic Paseo de Cristobal Colon, taking in the breathtaking views of the Guadalquivir River and the iconic Torre del Oro.
Continuing our exploration, we make our way to the lush Parque de Maria Luisa, where the majestic Plaza de España awaits. We spend hours marveling at the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece, taking in its intricate tile work and stunning fountains.
As lunchtime approaches, we head to Isla Morada, a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Sevilla. Here, we indulge in a delicious meal, savoring the flavors of traditional Spanish cuisine amidst the restaurant’s inviting ambiance.
With our appetites satisfied, we embark on a leisurely stroll through the winding streets of Sevilla, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and charming architecture of this historic city.
Day 2: History and Culture
Our second day begins with a visit to some of Sevilla’s most iconic landmarks. We start with a tour of the Plaza de Toros, the historic bullring that has played a central role in Spanish culture for centuries. Next, we explore the majestic Royal Alcazar of Sevilla, with its stunning gardens and intricate Moorish architecture.
Our next stop is the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Sevilla and the iconic Giralda tower. We climb to the top of this historic bell tower for panoramic views of the city, marveling at the beauty of Sevilla from above. Don’t forget to get your tickets in advance!
As lunchtime approaches, we make our way to Bar Las Teresas, a beloved local spot known for its delicious tapas and lively atmosphere. Here, we indulge in a feast of traditional Spanish dishes, savoring each bite amidst the bustling energy of the old town.
Day 3: Exploring Sevilla’s Neighborhoods
On our final day in Sevilla, we set out to explore the charming neighborhood of Triana and the historic streets of the old town. We wander through Triana’s colorful streets, admiring its vibrant markets and picturesque squares.
For lunch, we head to Típico Bar de Tapas, a cozy eatery known for its authentic Spanish cuisine and warm hospitality. Here, we enjoy a leisurely meal, sampling a variety of tapas and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the bustling tavern.
As our time in Sevilla comes to an end, we reflect on our unforgettable journey through this enchanting city. From its historic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods and delicious cuisine, Sevilla has captured our hearts and left us longing to return again soon.
Getting to Seville
- By train: High-speed AVE trains connect Seville’s Santa Justa station with Madrid in around two and a half hours, and there are also direct trains from Córdoba, Málaga and other Spanish cities.
- By plane: Seville Airport (San Pablo) has domestic and European flights. A bus and taxis connect it with the city centre.
- By car: Possible, but driving and parking in the old town is difficult. Leave the car at your hotel or a public car park.
Getting Around
The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot. For longer distances, Seville has a tram line in the centre, a metro line, city buses and a public bike-sharing system. The city is flat, which makes cycling along the river very pleasant.
Best Time to Visit Seville
- March to May: The best weather for walking, with orange blossom in the air. Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Abril bring huge crowds and higher hotel prices.
- June to August: Extremely hot, often over 40°C. Plan sightseeing for early morning and evening, and rest in the middle of the day like the locals.
- September to November: Warm and less crowded, a great time for a long weekend.
- Winter: Mild and sunny compared to most of Europe.
More Sights to Add to Your 72 Hours
If you want to fit more into your three days, these are worth considering:
- Barrio Santa Cruz: The old Jewish quarter, with narrow lanes, small squares and orange trees, right next to the Cathedral and the Alcázar.
- Metropol Parasol (Las Setas): A huge modern wooden structure with a walkway on top and wide views over the city.
- Casa de Pilatos: A noble palace mixing Mudéjar, Gothic and Renaissance styles.
- Palacio de las Dueñas: A palace known for its gardens and patios.
- Triana Market: Built on the site of an old castle, a lively food market by the Triana bridge.
- A flamenco show: Seville is one of the homes of flamenco, and the city has a dedicated flamenco museum as well as many small venues.
Where to Stay
- Santa Cruz and around the Cathedral: Perfect for first-time visitors, close to the main sights.
- El Arenal: Between the Cathedral and the river, near the bullring.
- Alameda de Hércules: A more local, bohemian area with bars and restaurants.
- Triana: Across the river, with a strong neighbourhood character and great tapas bars.
Tips for Your Trip
- Book the Alcázar and the Cathedral in advance. Both are very popular and time slots sell out, especially in spring.
- Eat on Spanish time. Lunch is typically from around 2pm and dinner from 9pm.
- Order tapas, not raciones, if you want to try many dishes. A ración is a larger portion to share.
- Try local specialities like salmorejo, espinacas con garbanzos, pringá, fried fish and Iberian ham.
- Carry water in summer and look for shade in the afternoons.
- Check opening hours of restaurants and monuments before you go, as they can change by season.
FAQ
Is 72 hours enough for Seville? Yes. Three days are enough to see the main monuments, explore Triana and Santa Cruz, and enjoy the tapas scene at a relaxed pace.
Do I need to book the Real Alcázar in advance? It is strongly recommended, especially in spring and on weekends.
Can you climb the Giralda? Yes. The tower is climbed by ramps rather than stairs, and access is included with a Cathedral visit.
What is the hottest time of year? July and August, when temperatures regularly go above 40°C.
Is Seville walkable? Yes. Most of the main sights are within walking distance in the old town.
What day trips can you do from Seville? Córdoba, Cádiz, Jerez and the white villages of Andalusia are all popular day trips.
