Last Updated on 03/05/2021
For a city break over a long weekend in early spring, Seville is the perfect choice. We eagerly headed to Seville to soaked up some sunshine and see as much as possible. We visited the palaces and gardens, stopping for tapas here and there over three glorious sangria-filled days. In this Seville travel guide, I’ve outlined things to do, the best tapas bars, where to stay and what to wear in this sunny Spanish city.
*This post was updated in March 2021 and contains affiliate links.*
Things to do in Seville
Plaza de España is completely free and a must-do in Seville. This plaza was built in 1929 with Moorish influence and has incredibly detailed tile work throughout. Also note the different Spanish cities represented on top of each bench.
The Parque de María Luisa is also right next door.
Most cities in Spain like to sleep in, close for siesta and eat very late (even more than the Italian culture I am used to living in Naples). I really admire these priorities, but it would be nice if the Seville Cathedral had longer opening hours.
The cathedral doesn’t open until 11am (2:30pm on Sundays) and closes early. We walked by on Saturday around 11am and there was a long dense line, but when we went back around 3 pm there was no line at all (book ahead).
I would have happily waited in a line though to see this stunning cathedral and climb to the top of the tower. There’s actually no stairs to get to the top; it’s all a steep slant and makes it a breeze. From here, you’ll also get unique views of the Real Alcázar.
Real Alcázar of Seville – This beautiful Moorish royal palace and Game of Thrones film location is absolutely stunning. Buy your tickets online ahead of time and skip the line. Even though you have to select a time and slots are limited, it was completely worth it to not wait in line for a single minute.
We actually bought the ticket for the upper royal apartment. However, the fine print in Spanish said we had to be at the actual apartment entrance at the selected time slot. We didn’t know, so we spent an hour looking at the rest of the palace before heading to the upper apartments. I was gutted to find them closed and the ticket counter woman to be extremely rude.
So, TIP: if you spend extra for the upper apartment ticket, you have to be AT THE UPSTAIRS APARTMENT entrance at THAT time (it’s not like the general admission ticket). Go ahead and just translate that whole damn terms and conditions. Clearly, I’m still not over this.
Metropol Parasol– I didn’t go up to the top and I’m regretting that now. The entire structure is made of wood and I bet there’s some pretty amazing views from the top.
Where to Stay in Seville
Commissioned by the King of Spain in the 1920s, Hotel Alfonso XIII is undoubtedly the premiere luxury choice.
Hospes hotels in Spain are known for their tasteful design and the Seville Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza is no exception.
Hotel Casa de Colón is a boutique hotel located just steps away from main attractions and amazing tapas bars. It’s moderately priced with a charming courtyard, tastefully decorated rooms and a nice rooftop patio.
Breakfast is not included, but when you can get churros and chocolate down the street for a few euros, what’s there to complain about?
Speaking of churros…
Where to Eat in Seville
Bar El Comerico is the spot for churros and chocolate. We visited in the morning before our flight for the doughy treat, coffee and their freshly squeeze orange juice.
El Rinconcillo and Bodega Santa Cruz seemed like the most authentic and local tapas bars. We actually went to El Rinconillo twice. You could easily walk by without seeing inside, but it’s packed with locals having tapas and socializing.
Bar Alfalfa and La Bartola are also solid options.
I saw a picture of El Pintón on Pinterest ages ago, pinned it and never thought I’d actually make it there. The ambiance is just as extraordinary in person, with high quality cuisine, cocktails and service to match. Be sure to make a reservation.
We also loved the bright and airy Mercado Lonja del Barranco near the river. It’s a similar concept to the market in Lisbon with food stalls serving sweets, sangria and other Spanish specialties. I was eager to get to the stand with tortilla española. It’s a simple dish of potatoes and eggs, but it’s my favorite Spanish food.
To head home, we opted to take a taxi to the airport. There are public transportation options, but we decided to save time. Taxis run about 20 to 25 euros from the city center to the airport.
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South Spain Traveller says
Seville is such a beautiful city and you’ve really captured it with your images! I think Seville should be on every travellers list when visiting Spain.
Scarlett | Petite Suitcase says
I completely agree! I even enjoyed it more than Barcelona.
Lauren Taylar says
I loved this post! I’m seeing more and more great things about Seville! I made it to Barcelona this past summer for the first time and I fell in love. It’s clear from these photos that Spain has so much charm that I have yet to see. Thanks for the recommendations!
Scarlett | Petite Suitcase says
I went to Barcelona a few years ago and loved it as well! Although, I have to say, I like Seville better ; ) You’ll have to make it to Seville next time!