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Craft the perfect 2 days in Seville itinerary using this guide for the perfect visit to Andalusia’s lively capital city.
Many arrive in Seville and head straight to its headline attractions, drawn like flies to the mystically evocative Real Alcazar or the picture-perfect Plaza de Espana and its rainbow of azulejos tiles.
There are certainly worse ways to spend 2 days in Seville.
I for one, however, think that the real draw of Seville lies in its labyrinth of streets; palpating with character and often sizzling in the intense heat of the Andalusian summers.
I’ve been to many cities that I’ve loved, but here is a city in which I could live.
(Editor’s note: in fact, since writing this post I did just that – spending a number of months living in Seville getting to know just what makes it tick.
This 2 day Seville itinerary will help you get under the skin of this vibrant city, with a mix of historical sights, must-visit eateries and off-the-radar gems).
For Seville possess a spirit that I wish I could bottle up and sell. A place that is made for lazy ambling, slow living and gorging oneself on tapas, Seville’s character bursts forth to meet you at every given encounter.
This is not, however, particularly surprising as Seville is the home of flamenco, a stirring dance that entwines its performers in passionate embraces and emotive flourishes.
Present too, however, is the great legacy of Seville’s fortuitous position during the Golden Age of Discoveries, when it served as a gateway to the New World in the 16th and 17th centuries.
A period that bestowed great riches upon the city, this wealth left its mark on Seville, none so more evident than in the gloriously gigantic Seville Cathedral.
Intertwined with the vestiges of Spain’s glory days as a colonial superpower, are a fascinating web of those Moorish and Jewish influences that are so common to the region of Andalusia.
By-products of this are the magnificently Mudéjar Real Alcazar and the winding alleyways of Seville’s Santa Cruz district that are so perfect to get lost in.
Whether you spend a weekend in Seville, or an entire week, its atmosphere is completely inescapable. Read on to learn the best ways to discover Seville in two days, and build a Seville itinerary that helps you get to the core of the spirited, beating heart of Andalusia’s capital city.
Essential links for your Seville city break
Getting to Seville: Search for flights // Find train routes // Find bus routes // Book an airport transfer
Editor’s choice:
✩ Tastes, Tapas & Traditions food tour (perfect for foodies – read my review here)
✩ Seville in a Day Tour with VIP Alcazar Access (Iconic sights)
Top tours and experiences in Seville:
✩ Alcázar and Cathedral Guided Tour & Priority Access (must-see)
✩ Seville Tapas Crawl with Flamenco Show
✩ Seville: Sunset Paddle Surfing on Guadalquivir river
✩ Seville By Boat – Guadalquivir 1-Hour City Cruise
Best places to stay in Seville: H10 Casa de la Plata (rooftop pool + terrace at superb price point) // Casa Romana Hotel Boutique (quaint boutique) // Soho Boutique Sevilla (stylish, luxe for less)
Best Seville vacation rentals: luxury apartments on Plum Guide
Best day trips from Seville
✩ White Villages and Ronda Tour
✩ Granada’s Alhambra and Albaicin Full Day Tour
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A Brief Overview of this Seville 2 Day Itinerary
Here is an outline of what to do in Seville in 2 days, which will be detailed fully further in this post.
In summary, this 2 day Seville itinerary explores Seville’s delectable culinary traditions, its most famous historical sites and includes a smattering of its more contemporary trappings.
Day 1 of 2 day Seville Itinerary
- Morning: take a food tour (or other tour of your interest) as an introduction to Seville
- Afternoon: visit the big hitters; the Real Alcazar, Seville Cathedral and the Giralda. Walk through the streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz
- Sunset: go for sundowners at a Seville rooftop bar
- Evening: go for tapas at El Rinconcillo or Eslava
Day 2 of 2 day Seville Itinerary
- Early morning: start early and visit the Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park
- Mid-morning: head for brunch at La Cacharreria. Afterwards, explore the Metropol Parasol and wander around Seville’s city centre streets (or hit the shops)!
- Lunch: go for a tapas lunch at Bar Alfalfa, or head to Mercado de Feria
- Afternoon: visit Casa de los Pilatos and the Museum of Fine Arts
- Sunset: take in the riverfront and have a drink at Mercado Lonja del Barranco
- Evening: attend a Flamenco Show or go on a tapas crawl of Seville
Where to stay in Seville
To make the most of your 2 days in Seville, do yourself a favour and book some accommodation in Seville that is in or very close to the city centre, meaning that you will be able to walk everywhere. The following are my recommendations.
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Hotel Alfonso XIII – A Luxury Collection Hotel
Lap of Luxury
If you want to splash out on a spectacular luxury hotel in Seville, then look no further than the emblematic Hotel Alfonso XIII. Situated right beside Seville’s Royal Alcazar, the architecture and design of this 5 star luxury hotel in Seville borrows heavily from its Mudejar-themed neighbour. Comes with every amenity that you would expect a hotel of this ilk to offer.
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Casa Romana Hotel Boutique
Boutique Bolthole
I had a lovely stay at this 4 star boutique hotel in Seville. Rooms are set around a delightful outdoor courtyard (like a Roman villa) that features a lovely, trickling water feature. There is also a rooftop terrace with a hot tub and a rooftop bar that is perfect for some cocktails! The street it is located on is quiet, and its position in the Old Town meant we were 15 minutes away from everything.
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Soho Boutique Villa
Luxe for Less
Those looking for something a little bit more affordable, but nonetheless luxe, will find that Soho Boutique Villa ticks all their boxes. This stylish, 3 star boutique hotel features trendy rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and is located too in the old town area of Seville.
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How to spend two days in Seville: your itinerary
Here, in full, is my suggested 2 days in Seville itinerary. Seville is all about slow, soulful living, beautiful surroundings, incredible history and architecture and, of course – delectable Andalusian cuisine.
A trip to Seville is as much about savouring the lifestyle as it is about seeing the sites, so make sure to slow down, smell the orange-blossoms and fall into the steady pace of life that makes Sevilla so special.
With that in mind, while I’ve tried to fit in a decent amount of things to do in Seville in 2 days, don’t feel like you need to follow this to a T.
Day 1 in Seville
Day 1 locations visited:
- Food tour meeting in city centre
- Réal Alcazar
- Seville Cathedral
- La Giralda
- Barrio Santa Cruz
- La Terrazza del EME
1 | Start with a food tour
Food in Seville – especially when it comes to what, when and where to eat it – forms a huge part of its culture. While the architecture and history of Seville are both majestic and impressive, it was Seville’s attitude to food that stood out to me most while living there.
Wherever you move through the city, the aromas of Seville’s vibrant culinary landscape waft through the air, beckoning curious foodies over thresholds and into dimly lit establishments.
Discovering the gastronomic offerings of Seville is one of the best things to do in Seville in 2 days. With an abundance of dining options, tapas hotspots, and bustling markets, however, it can be difficult to know where to begin your gastronomic adventure.
This is why I strongly believe why you should start your 48 hours in Seville with a food tour. In this ‘best food tours in Seville‘ post, I outline the best on offer.
If you want my quick advice, however, I took this Tastes, Tapas & Traditions tour with Devour Tours when I first got to Seville and couldn’t recommend it highly enough.
By taking a Seville food tour- read my review here, you will uncover the hidden gems and local favourites that are often missed by those travelling un-shepherded, as you’ll be shown the way by a local foodie. It made our months of eating around Seville all the better.
With their wealth of knowledge and passion for food, your local guide will typically introduce you to the very best that Seville has to offer in an authentic and immersive way.
Alternatively, if cooking is more your style, then discover the best cooking classes in Seville in this post.
RELATED READING | Best food tours in seville
2 | Real Alcázar of Seville
After several hours of eating on your food tour, you should be well set up for exploring one of Seville’s most iconic sights in the early afternoon.
The Real Alcazar of Seville is one of the finest examples of mudéjar art in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its origins began in the 8th century when it was constructed as a palace by Seville’s Moorish occupants.
By the 13th century, Seville had been reclaimed by the Spanish monarchs during the Reconquista, who began decorating the palace to their own tastes.
Thus, they incorporated a range of romanesque, gothic and Renaissance architecture into the building’s designs, resulting in the fascinating clash of styles that we now call “mudéjar”.
While many visitors are drawn to the Alcazar as they have seen it featured as the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, the palace is rich in history and world-renowned architecture, with ornate gardens too that beg to be explored.
To truly get the best of a visit, I’d advise reading up a little in advance, or booking a guided tour. At the very least, make sure to get an audioguide. Again, this is a site that should not be left off any 2 day Seville itinerary.
Time required: You’ll need around 2 hours to visit both palace and gardens.
EDITOR’S NOTE | I’d highly recommend that you book skip-the-line tickets, due to the (often hours) long queues at the ticket office. If you’d prefer to take a guided tour, this small group Alcazar tour is reasonably priced and extremely well reviewed.
ⓘ Top tip – Take this exclusive, early access Alcazar experience if you’d like to bask in the incredible Mudejar architecture without bumping elbows.
3 | Seville Cathedral and La Giralda
Next up is the mighty Seville Cathedral, the largest gothic cathedral in the world.
It and the adjacent Giralda should be included as a stop on any Seville itinerary, even if just to be admired from the outside. If you’re pressed for time, or would prefer to do something else, then I would at least urge you to climb the Giralda for extremely rewarding views over the rooftops of Seville.
Do try, however, to visit the interior of Seville Cathedral. At the time of building in the 15th century, local lore has it that the cathedral was built with the following intention: “Let us build a church so beautiful and so grand that those who see it finished will take us for mad”.
On viewing the interior of the cathedral in real life, you can really appreciate the sheer enormity of it and what an architectural feat it was at the time. Designed to inspire awe in its congregation, it most definitely hits the mark. When inside, make sure to take in the impressive tomb of Christopher Columbus.
Time required: you’ll need around 1.5 – 2 hours for both Cathedral and Giralda
EDITOR’S NOTE | Skip-the-line entrance tickets for the cathedral and the Giralda can be purchased together at this link.
While I’d recommend a tour of the Alcazar ahead of the cathedral, if you have a particular interest, you can check out this guided tour, which incorporates both.
RELATED READING | Where to find the best seville cathedral tours
4 | Wander the streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz
The former Jewish quarter of Seville, known as Barrio Santa Cruz, is one of the must-visit places when exploring Seville things to do in 2 days.
Encompassing the mighty Seville Cathedral and Real Alcazar within its boundaries, the warren of streets that lead from these central points are a joy to become lost in and it’s the natural next step once you’re done exploring the Alcazar and cathedral.
In this historic quarter, you’ll encounter charming, orange tree-fringed squares, little souvenir shops selling teas and spices and a whole host of tapas restaurants.
FOODIE TIP | You’ll find Delatribu, a speciality coffee spot from my best coffee shops in Seville list in the heart of Santa Cruz. Pop in for a caffeine fix.
5 | Go for some sundowners with a view
For a memorable (and somewhat glam) experience during your 2 days in Seville, head for cocktails at sunset to one of Seville’s rooftop bars.
There are plenty of options, but I loved the upscale rooftop bar, “La Terraze de EME”, at the EME Catedral Hotel. The cocktail menu is extensive if a little bit pricey, but offers spectacular views of La Giralda tower, which is made all the more special at sunset.
6 | Sample some of Seville’s tapas
As I’ve previously mentioned, I’ve been lucky enough to spend a few months living in Seville. During this time, the majority of my activities incorporated rolling from tapas bar to tapas bar, washed down with refreshing tinto de verano!
Whether you’re after some old school, traditional tapas, or more trendy, experimental spots make sure to leave plenty of time to discover the culinary delights of Seville, which is a must-do when considering what to do in Seville for 2 days.
Some of my recommendations for tapas include:
- Eslava
- Casa Morales
- El Rinconcillo
- Bar dos de Mayo
- Bar Alfalfa
Day 2 in Seville
Day 2 locations visited:
- Plaza d’España
- Maria Luisa Park
- La Cacchareria
- Metropol Parasol
- Mercado de Feria
- Casa de los Pilatos
- Fine Arts Museum
- Riverfront
- Mercado Lonja del Barranco
1 | Start the day at Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park
No visit to Seville is complete without a visit to the expansive Plaza de Espana and the adjacent Maria Luisa Park. My top tip here would be to visit Plaza de Espana early in the morning, for gorgeously soft light and decidedly less crowds.
The Plaza de Espana was built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, forming the centerpiece of the event. The main building is surrounded by a moat, over which there stand four bridges – each representing the ancient Spanish kingdoms of Castile, Navarre, Aragón and León.
Take your time to take in the beautiful azulejos tiles that adorn much of the square and wander amongst the romantic bridges and arches. Make sure to take in the exceptionally intricate mosaics (52 of them, each representing a Spanish province) that adorn the front of the main building.
The nearby Maria Luisa Park is an oasis of calm in what is the otherwise busy city of Seville. For some exceptionally pretty spots within the garden, seek out the Isla de los Patos (or ‘island of the ducks‘) and the fantastic mudejar pavilion.
Time required: You’ll need around 1.5 – 2 hours to visit, taking into consideration that it’s located a little outside of Seville’s old town.
2 | Head for brunch at La Cacharreria
This small, quirky cafe that is located close to the Metropol Parasol is a great spot in which some grab some brunch in Seville.
I first visited it when spending a few days in Seville and returned several years later (on multiple occasions) to find it going from strength to strength.
They have an extensive menu of sandwiches, bagels, smoothie bowls, toasts etc that should be sure to satisfy many a brunch menu requirement.
It always seems to be buzzing with people. Their cakes in particular are exceptionally good (massive portions too), which are very popular with locals come early evening before dinner.
3 | Metropol Parasol
With the old in Seville, is also the new.
The Metropol Parasol is a very modern, wooden installation that incorporates the ruins of a Roman colony. For a fee, you can access the top of the parasols, on which there is a walkway and a terrace that offers a splendid panorama of Seville.
Built to cover the site of a traditional Seville food market (which stands under the construction through the doors), pop your head in to see vendors in full flight and marvel at the plump, vibrantly coloured fruit and vegetables.
For those with an interest in photography, visiting the Metropol Parasol Barrio Santa Cruz is also one of the great things to do in Seville, Spain.
It’s a great place to test your photography skills, as the ever-changing sunlight and the angles of the parasol make composition really interesting. I always felt drawn to photographing it whenever I saw it.
4 | Go shopping in Seville’s centre
Seville is a fantastic destination for shopping, with many Spanish and international brands with stores in the city. As you are in Spain, this is the place to visit stores like Zara, Mango etc, and you will find that there are multiple stores.
The main shopping streets are the pedestrian areas of Calle Sierpes, Calle Tetuán and Plaza Nueva – these are great spots to hit even to just take in the style of the locals (you’ll notice that people in Seville are very stylish).
Even if you don’t want to purchase anything, I’d recommend taking a walk through these streets anyway. They are a bustling reflection of Seville’s energy and offer glimmers of the city’s unique culture, through religious themed shops, and those selling flamenco dresses, amongst others.
Do be aware that most stores shut on Sundays, however.
NOTE | If you’re looking for something a little more artisanal, cross the banks of the river to the Triana district to shop for ceramics or visit the Triana Market. You’ll also find a lot of home decor and furniture stores here as well.
5 | Take a stroll up Calle Feria for lunch
Calle Feria came to reflect the Seville that I completely fell in love with while living there. It offered a different side to the city of flamenco and tapas; a grungier, more youthful view, enmeshing traditional Seville with a more rounded, global influence.
For that reason, I’ve included it on this 2 day Seville itinerary.
You’ll find all manner of cuisines along the street. Favourites of mine include:
- Fatouch for amazing Lebanese food in a really cool space(make sure to book ahead)
- Taquería La Lupe for Mexican
- Restaurante La Locanda di Andrea for small-plate Italian pastas
- Üaillo Pizza Lab, on a side street nearby (featuring Neapolitan chefs) for pizza
The all out winner for me, however, is located at the back of Mercado de Feria. That winner is a South American tapas restaurant called Condendê – a gem with pumping tunes, extremely chatty servers and exceptional food.
Walk through the market (and have a peak at the stalls) to reach it.
EDITOR’S NOTE | This option will likely only work if you don’t spend too long shopping (if you do, pop into famous Bar Alfalfa for a tapas lunch before moving on to the next activity on this itinerary).
6 | Pop into the Casa de Pilatos
This 16th century palace is a special treat held within the Santa Cruz district of Seville.
Still serving as the permanent residence of the Dukes of Medinaceli, this gorgeous building is a magnificent fusion of Spanish Mudejar and Italian Renaissance architecture.
The term ‘Pilatos‘ in the palace’s name comes from Pontius Pilate, having been inspired by the architecture of Pilate’s house in Jerusalem.
At the centre of the palace is a traditional Andalusian courtyard. Beautifully decorated and resplendently complete with a well and fountain, it boats 24 busts of various Roman emperors and Greek gods.
One of the best preserved palaces in the city of Seville, Casa del Pilatos is often referred to as a mini Alcázar, such is the intricacy in the endless mosaics, carvings, ceiling paintings and numerous other features that grace its walls.
I loved my visit here – make sure to join the guided tour to access the rooms upstairs, which I thought were worth it (enquire on arrival). Spend more time doing this than listening to the audioguide that guides you through downstairs, which I found to be a little boring.
Time required: around 1 – 1.5 hours, depending on whether you take a tour, etc.
Book tickets | There is an admission fee for entry, at €10. You can purchase tickets for Casa de Pilatos here (ground floor only).
7 | Museum of Fine Arts
Including this on the itinerary may be a bit of a stretch (you may need to choose between here and Casa de Pilatos, or eating on Calle Feria), but I loved my visit here so feel it would be remiss of me to leave it off this itinerary.
The Museum of Fine Arts is home to one of the most valuable collections of art in Spain. It’s often held up as being the second most important collection in the country after that of the famous Prado Museum of Madrid.
I would say that the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville is a must-visit for any art lover who is considering how to spend 2 days in Seville. The museum offers visitors a view of Spanish artwork, ranging from Medieval times up until the 19th century.
The building that the museum is held within is itself worth a visit. Situated in the former Merced Calzada Convent, this 17th century building is considered one of the best examples of Andalusian Mannerism.
The museum is set within a stunning courtyard and even the former church of the convent, which makes for seriously dramatic viewing – I was more than a little gobsmacked.
Time required: 1 – 1.5 hours
RELATED READING | Is Seville Worth Visiting in 2024? An Insider’s 17 Pros + 5 Cons
8 | Guadalquivir Riverfront & cocktails at Mercado Lonja del Barranco
Much more than merely ‘a river’, the Gualdalquivir has been pivotal to Seville’s history, in particular its maritime prowess during the Golden Age of Discoveries.
It was Seville from which Ferdinand Magellan launched the first circumnavigation of the world in 1519. During this time, Seville was the mercantile centre of the western world, and the Gualdalquivir served as the main maritime route for Atlantic traffic for over 200 years.
Today, the river still plays an important role in Seville’s story, although its functions may have changed. It is a real focal point of the city, splitting the city picturesquely in two. With broad walkways, the riverside is lively and full of people, who make us of it to dine, meet friends and exercise.
You can also visit a full size replica of Magellan’s ship, the Nao Victoria, to discover more about the famous voyage.
Walk for as little or as long as you like. Many other itineraries suggest a visit to Torre del Oro – by all means walk as far as it and admire the outside (it’s rather nice at sunset), but I would prioritise seeing the other things mentioned on this itinerary.
When you’ve had enough walking, make your way to the hip Mercado del Barranco. Once a bustling fish market, it now serves as a stage for Seville’s evolving gastronomic narrative and is a millenial’s culinary playground.
Grab a chair outside, let the river form a hazy, pastel backdrop as the sun sets and enjoy the tunes and buzz as the evening begins to ramp up.
EDITOR’S NOTE | If you’d like to explore the Gualdalquivir River in a more leisurely fashion, then take a river cruise. This 2-hour long experience takes in Seville’s bridges, with a multi-course dinner menu and drinks while you take in the sights.
9 | Finish with the drama of a Flamenco show
Flamenco dance is an important part of Andalusian culture and indeed, the culture of Seville.
Tracing its origins to 18th century Andalusia, the dance is thought to have come about due to a fusion of folks songs and dances that arose due to the diverse population of Gypsies, Arabs, Africans and Jews that were living in Andalusia.
The music is fast paced and performances are passionate, featuring hand-clapping, foot-stamping and often ad-lib vocal performances.
If you do choose to see a Flamenco performance in Seville, choose a smaller, more intimate venue where you will be closer to the performers and can more easily become entangled in the drama as it unfolds.
Book | If you’d like to attend a traditional Flamenco show, check out the Tablao Flamenco show in Triana
Alternative activities for your 2 days in Seville
Go on a memorable tour in Seville
Depending on your interests, whether they be history, architecture, food, art, or other(!) – allocate a couple of hours in your Seville itinerary to doing something fun that will help you to create memories that you’ll keep on talking about long after you leave Seville.
Some great tours with wonderful reviews that take in Seville’s charms across a broad range include the following:
- Authentic Seville Tapas Crawl: a 3-hour hour gourmet walking tour with a local foodie, limited to 10 people, that takes you to 5 of the most authentic and emblematic tapas bars in Seville.
- Seville: Sunset Paddle Surfing on Guadalquivir river: 1.5 hours with an expert instructor. Discover some of Seville’s key cultural sites from the water.
- Seville river cruise & meal on exclusive yacht: a 2-hour cruise that takes in Seville’s bridges, with a 6-course tasting menu and cava while you take in the sights.
- Seville highlights bike tour: an extremely popular 3-hour Seville bike tour that takes in lots of Seville’s sights and neighbourhoods. Learn about Seville’s rich history and local lifestyle as you pedal.
- Spanish Cooking Class & Triana Market Tour in Sevilla: visit the local Triana market, before heading back to the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class. Afterwards, sample your efforts!
RELATED READING | 12 of the Best Seville Bike Tours to Take in 2024
Visit the Hospital de los Venerables
Barrio Santa Cruz is one of Seville’s most heavily visited areas, but in a quiet, orange-tree fringed square you will find the Hospital de los Venerables, a former baroque hospital built in the 17th century to house elderly, impoverished priests.
Today, it houses an art gallery dedicated to the famous Sevillano painter Velazquez, and its “Centro Velazquez” aims to impart on visitors the importance of his legacy, by recreating the historic and artistic world he lived in.
In those times, Seville’s vibrant art scene found itself under the lens from the rest of Europe.
Depending on when you visit, there may also be temporary exhibitions being held – in 2019/20 for example, the venue displayed Picasso’s Mother and Child. There is also a contemporary exhibition found upstairs, along with some early photographs from the 19th century.
RELATED READING | The best food markets seville (+ tips for visiting)
General Archive of the Indies
One for the history buffs, the General Archive of the Indies does exactly what it says on the tin, holding millions of documents that keep a record of Spain’s colonial history.
Spanning more than 3 centuries of history, it holds archives of the vast territories that Spain held, including America and the Philippines.
Conveniently located right beside the Real Alcazar and Seville Cathedral, this is a very easy one to pop into, as entrance is also free.
Keep an eye out for special exhibitions that are on when you are visiting Seville, as the Archive regularly schedules interesting features, such as Magellan’s voyage of discovery.
The building itself is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, occupying a grand, 16th century merchant’s building that served as the central merchant exchange during Spain’s Golden Age, when wealth poured in to Seville from the New World.
Where to eat during your Seville 2 day itinerary
EDITOR’S NOTE: I’m currently working on some more Seville posts while you’re reading this, including a detailed foodie’s guide. Check back in in a few weeks, and/or follow on Instagram for updates on when these are published!
Where to get a Michelin starred meal in Seville
Abantal
Abantal is a Michelin star restaurant in Seville that offers up traditional Andalusian dishes with a contemporary, creative twist. A minimalist decor lets the food do the talking, offering diners a choice of two tasting menus and a chance to sit at the chef’s table in Abantal’s kitchen.
Cañabota
A unique restaurant with the feel of a gastro bar and an atmosphere that is both enjoyable and entertaining. Fish and seafood at the highest possible standards, much of which is grilled on the open grill. You can watch the kitchen team at work too, with an open-view kitchen featuring in the design.
Where to go for a trendy dinner in Seville
El Pinton
Recent years have seen a surge in trendy eateries, offering modern takes on Andalusian cooking and extensive cocktail menus to whet the palate with.
Those searching for an upmarket restaurant in Seville will be very pleased with El Pinton. Exquisite interiors are set around an Andalusian courtyard, complementing perfectly El Pinton’s eclectic menu.
Where to go for tapas in Seville
El Rinconcillo
El Rinconcillo has been firmly on the list as one of Seville’s best tapas restaurants for a long time – in fact, El Riconcillo has been knocking around since 1670 and is Seville’s oldest tapas bar. It also manages to be consistently good.
Located in two adjoining buildings (one an old grocers) on an atmospheric little corner, I’ve visited several times across the span of several years and it never lets me down. Try to get a table outside in the square for the ultimate people-watching experience, or next best – simply stand at the bar!
Eslava
Again, here is another Sevillian institution that has yet to let me down. This neighbourhood tapas bar in San Lorenzo is extremely popular, so go early to put your name down for a table, unless you mind waiting.
That being said, you can still grab a glass of wine and stand out on the street, watching the world go by – it’s nearly my favourite part of the Eslava experience! Make sure to try the household ‘Cigar’ dish – which incorporates cuttlefish wrapped in a light, filo pastry!
I’ve visited Eslava many times over the years and it really does deserve its reputation.
Map of this 2-day itinerary in Seville
With the exception of the tours and general wandering around mentioned above in this post, I’ve included all other places to visit in Seville that you might like to include on your itinerary on a handy map, so that you can easily craft a plan and get your bearings.
What to know before planning a 2 days in Seville itinerary
Before you embark on your two day trip to Seville, there are some practical and logistical matters that you need first to assess.
What is the best time to visit Seville?
Seville is located in Spain’s Andalusia region, in the southernmost part of the country. It is also set a little bit in from the coastline.
What this means is that it is the hottest region in Spain. It is also the hottest region in Europe! If you plan to spend a couple of days in Seville be prepared for the sometimes scorching temperatures this vibrant city offers.
In terms of when to visit Seville, unless you particularly enjoy being sizzled like a sausage on a hot, hot, grill, then I’d avoid Seville in the height of summer. The temperatures can reach a daily average of 36 °C (97 °F) in July and August.
During its hottest days, the mercury can even reach up to 42/43 °C (107/109 °F), which is not at all conducive to sightseeing (or eating tapas, for that matter). This is also considered Seville’s low season.
Outside of the above, I think any other month is a good time to visit Seville, depending on what you’re after.
I spent a number of months living in Seville from winter through early Spring. While January into February is quite chilly, it’s still rather sunny and it often reached around 17 °C (63 °F) at the warmest part of the day (which was t-shirt weather for me, even if the locals don’t share the same sentiment!).
Remember that it does get chilly at night time, however, and that you will need a warm jacket. It still makes Seville a great option, though, for a winter city break.
Furthermore, as February progresses the weather can be really pleasant. March, I found, was a real joy!
High season runs from March through June (so keep that in mind for both crowds and prices), with all other months considered to be Seville’s shoulder-season; to be honest these are all good months to visit.
Bear in mind that it can still be pretty toasty in May/June and September/October, so depending on how hot you like your city breaks to be you may want to steer clear then too.
Is 2 days enough in Seville?
You’re probably wondering how many days to spend in Seville. So, how many days in Seville are enough?
Two? Three? Ten?!
I easily passed a week in this wonderful city before I absconded the Emerald Isle to live there for a while, but I appreciate that this is not realistic for everyone.
Seville is a brilliant city break destination and you can uncover much of Seville within a 2 day period. If you only have a weekend, or are including Seville as part of a road trip around Andalusia, then it is very much possible to visit Seville in 2 days and get a good sense of the city.
This guide shows you how to make the most of two days in Seville, but if you have some more time to spare and are debating whether or not to stay longer, then I’d urge you to allocate some more days to spend discovering Sevilla!
RELATED READING | How Many Days in Seville: Itineraries (+ Top Tips) for Every Traveller
Getting in to Seville
As one of Spain’s major cities and the capital of the Andalusia region, you will find that Seville is extremely well connected.
Whether you are travelling to Seville from another city in Spain, or transiting to Seville from another country, knowing how to go to Seville is vital. Fortunately, Seville is relatively easy to access.
Getting to Seville by plane
There is an airport in Seville – Aeropuerto de Sevilla – that is located only 10km from the city, making it extremely convenient to access the city, especially if you’re planning to explore Seville in 2 days.
From the airport, you can take a local bus, running every 30 minutes (that also takes 30 minutes), which drops you straight to Seville’s central bus station. The bus costs €4.
Alternatively, you can simply get a taxi from Seville Airport into Seville city centre, for around €25 at time of writing.
If your point of origin does not offer direct flights to Seville, then try Malaga airport instead, which is a major hub for international flights. From here, then, you are looking at a train from Malaga city (discussed further below).
Otherwise, your next best bet is Madrid Airport followed by a train to reach Seville.
How to get from the airport in Seville to the city center
Getting from Seville Airport to the city centre is convenient and straightforward. You can take a taxi directly from the airport, and the journey usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. It costs around €25-30.
Another option is to use the airport bus service, which operates frequently and connects the airport with the city center. The bus journey takes approximately 35 minutes. A one-way ticket costs €4.
Additionally, car rental services are available at the airport if you prefer to explore Seville and its surroundings at your own pace. Note that a lot of Seville’s streets are labyrinthine in nature, with quite a longwinded one-way system in place.
That, coupled with the fact that you’ll have to pay for overnight parking in most places (which will cost you around €25-30 a night), means that it’s a better option to pick up a car once you’re finished in Seville.
Getting to Seville by train
From Madrid & Barcelona | Spain has a great high speed train system, the AVE, which means that Spain’s main cities are very well connected.
Trains run frequently and you can easily reach Seville from Madrid in 2.5 hours and Barcelona in 5.5 hours. Tickets can be pricey, so try to reserve these in advance.
From Malaga | There are frequent trains to Seville from Malaga’s María Zambrano train station. Journey duration is from 2.5-3 hours.
From Granada | The Granada-Seville axis is a popular one, with many people visiting both on a trip to southern Spain. The journey between both runs several times a day and you can reach Seville from Granada within around 3-3.5 hours by train.
From Cordoba | It’s more likely that you might visit Cordoba from Seville rather than the other way round, but if you are travelling to Seville from Cordoba, then the train journey is a brief one of around 45 minutes. Trains are very frequent, around two within each hour.
Getting to Seville by car
If you are visiting Seville as part of a longer Andalusia road trip, then you may be arriving in Seville by car. Otherwise, I’d suggest not renting a car as you won’t need it when you are in the city.
Once you have Google Maps or a GPS to hand, then driving into Seville city centre is relatively straightforward. Like any major city, expect traffic, especially if you choose to arrive at rush hour! However, exploring what to see in Seville, Spain in 2 days is best done on foot or using public transportation.
Locate your car parking spot in advance – check if your accommodation offers car parking and if not, they will usually have a preferential rate at a nearby underground car park.
How to get around Seville
Seville is an extremely walkable city, and if you’re looking for a 2 day itinerary in Seville, Spain, I’d urge you to take to your feet to explore, as it’s the only way to really uncover all of its charms.
By choosing somewhere in close proximity to the city center, you will be able to walk to most places and make the most of your limited time in Seville.
If you would like the option of some transportation between Seville’s main sites, then try the hop on/hop off bus, which offers ticket options of 24 or 48 hours. You can book your Seville hop on/hop off bus here.
If you need a taxi at night or during the day, then make sure to download the FreeNow app (available for both iOS and Android), which is an Uber equivalent that is widespreadly used in Seville.
If you’ve got more than 2 days in Seville
If you plan on spending a little longer in Seville, or fancy going on a road trip around Andalusia, there are a number of cities in Southern Spain that you can easily reach from Seville, either by train or private or group tour.
Day trips from Seville
Visiting Cordoba from Seville
Cordoba is home to the fascinating Mezquita, or Mosque-Cathedral and extremely unique hybrid of a Muslim mosque and Catholic church, which is famed for its scores of distinct, red and white pillars.
Steeped in history, the city of Cordoba makes for a fascinating day trip from Seville, and also offers a beautiful Old Town that is centred on its old Jewish quarter, an Alcazar and flower-filled patios to explore. A fantastic place to add to the itinerary when you visit Andalucia.
Book your day trip to Cordoba from Seville here.
Visiting Ronda and the White Villages from Seville
Ronda is one of the largest and most important “White Village” of Andalusia. Home to the spectacular Puente Nuevo which soars to a staggering 98m above El Tajo gorge, this incredible unique town is well worth a day trip from Seville.
Book your day trip to Ronda from Seville here.
Visiting Granada from Seville
A little bit further afield, but still do-able is a day trip to Granada.
Your primary reason for visiting Granada from Seville will likely be to see the mighty Alhambra, a sprawling hilltop complex of palaces and a fortress. It was home to the rulers of Granada and you will find that it is well worth the journey.
Book your day trip from Seville to Granada here.
If time is on your side, however, do plan for at least 2 days in Granada – there’s a wealth of things on offer. Check my out my related post on the top places to stay in Granada if you plan on doing so.
RELATED READING | Day Trip to Alhambra from Seville: How to Pull off a Flawless Visit
Visiting Malaga from Seville
If you’d like to see the sea and some more of Andalusia’s sites, then consider a day trip to Malaga. Malaga’s main offerings for a day trip include a Roman theatre, the Alcazaba of Malaga and Gibralfaro Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city of Malaga.
Malaga is also the birthplace of Picasso, and you can take a visit to his childhood home, as well as the Museo Picasso Málaga, which explores the life and art of the famous painter and includes 200 of his works of art.
Book your day trip from Seville to Malaga here.
Seville in 2 days – FAQ
Is 2 days in Seville enough?
As someone who lived there for two months and who would seriously consider moving there, I would say that two days in Seville can provide you with a wonderful introduction to this vibrant city.
You’ll have ample time to explore the main attractions, soak in the culture, and experience the essence of Seville. If it’s a place that clicks with you, however, you’ll likely want to spend much longer.
What are the must-visit attractions in Seville?
Seville boasts numerous must-visit attractions. Be sure to explore the awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower, the enchanting Alcázar of Seville, and the vibrant Plaza de España.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Guadalquivir River, immerse yourself in the charming streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz, and indulge in the local cuisine and tapas.
What to do in Seville on Sunday?
Seville on a Sunday offers a unique experience, where you’ll see lots of Sevillanos out and about spending time with their families, but it’s essential to plan accordingly. Many shops and businesses are closed on Sundays, so it’s a great day to explore the city’s cultural and historical sites.
Visit the stunning Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views, wander through the Alcázar gardens, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the traditional restaurants that remain open.
Keep in mind that most restaurants tend to close in the evening on Sundays, so it’s best to plan for lunch rather than dinner.
How do I plan a 2-day trip to Seville?
When planning a 2-day trip to Seville, consider your interests and prioritize the must-see attractions like the Alcazar and Cathedral. Allocate time for leisurely strolls in charming neighborhoods like Santa Cruz.
Opt for a guided tour to gain insights into the city’s history and culture. Remember to savor delicious tapas and embrace the lively ambiance.
What are the best neighbourhoods to explore in Seville during a 2-day visit?
Make sure to explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Triana, Feria and La Macarena. I absolutely loved strolling along the riverside walkways in Triana and immersing myself in the lively flamenco culture. In Feria, you’ll find trendy shops and the bustling Alameda de Hércules.
What are some other recommended activities in Seville?
Apart from the main attractions, there are several other activities to enjoy in Seville. Take a relaxing boat ride along the Guadalquivir River, visit the Metropol Parasol, known as Las Setas, for stunning views of the city, or explore the vibrant Triana neighbourhood, famous for its flamenco and ceramic heritage.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a traditional flamenco show for an authentic taste of Andalusian culture.
Conclusion: what to do in Seville in 2 days
In this post, I’ve laid out what I think is the best way to enjoy 2 days in Seville. This post has been informed by several trips – some of the weekend break variety, another where I spent a week in Seville, as well as actually living in the city for a few months.
Each experience has brought a different nuance and layer of understanding to this vibrant, intoxicating city that pulsates with life.
I hope my enthusiasm for it has shown throughout this post, and I hope that the information in this post will help you to experience Seville just that little bit differently, as well as hitting all the main attractions that you come to Seville seeking out.
Related reading for Seville
Seville Travel Guides
- Seville Travel Guide | coming soon
- Is Seville worth visiting | Is Seville Worth Visiting in 2024? An Insider’s 17 Pros + 5 Cons
- How many days in Seville | How Many Days in Seville: Itineraries (+ Top Tips) for Every Traveller
- Seville in 2 days | 2 Days in Seville Itinerary – Get to the Heart of Andalusia’s Capital City
- Seville in 3 days | coming soon
- Seville in 1 day | coming soon
Seville Accommodation Guides
- Where to Stay in Seville | coming soon
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- Seville Food Guide | coming soon
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Other Seville Experiences
- Seville Bike Tours | 12 of the Best Seville Bike Tours to Take in 2024
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- Andalucia itinerary | The Perfect Andalucia Itinerary for 7, 10, or 14 Days