Deep in the south of Spain in the autonomous community of Andalusia exists a city with a contagious love of life and dance, Seville. The artistic and financial capital of southern Spain rose to power in the 16th century as Europe’s gateway to the new world. Situated north of the Atlantic ocean at the Guadalquivir river, Sevilla, Seville or Hispalis is a maze of Moorish style houses, twisted streets, and small squares. Travelers spending one day in Seville can witness the vibrant cultural beauty achieved by centuries of political power changes and the blending of cultures.
GUEST POST BY ROMI R.
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Best Time to Visit Seville
The best time to visit Seville is from March to May, especially during Semana Santa or the Holy Week leading up to Easter. The weather for Semana Santa in Seville will be on your side while you get to experience one of the city’s largest annual festivals in action. You will see people in traditional robes and a parade of over 50 organized processions. The tradition has been going from the 16th century! Just two weeks later you can see Feria de Abril when Sevillians come out to eat, drink and dance.
Summer’s get extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 35C, you will have to spend a large portion of your day indoors while winters can get a lot of rain. For a traveler trying to visit Seville in one day, your best option is during the Semana Santa.
A Few Facts About Seville
- Seville is the birthplace of tapas – the small portion dishes of Spanish cuisine.
- Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and Amerigo Vespucci all sailed into the new world from Seville.
- Sevillians a very proud. They are, first and most important from Seville; secondly, from Andalusia; and only the remote third, from Spain.
- Plenty of popular movies are filmed in Seville such as Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia and Kingdom of Heaven.
One Day in Seville Itinerary
Whether you’re here on a one day tour to Seville from Madrid or decided to come to see the city for yourself, Seville has its share of impressive sights. From culture to food, from history to art here is what to see in Seville, Spain in one day.
Start Your Day With The Famous Seville Orange Juice
Whether you’re arriving from the airport or on a bus you are likely to start your day at the Plaza de Armas bus station. The first thing you want to do is find a place to stay so you can leave your stuff and explore the rest of Seville in peace. There are a number of hotels in the area, but one that stands out due to its location and beauty is Hotel Amadeus & La Musica, you can check-in and continue on your one day in Seville. Walk 10 minutes to La Cacharreria de Sevilla (Carlos Cañal location) for breakfast, fresh orange juice or a fantastic coffee!
Wander The Santa Cruz District
Head to the Catedral de Sevilla and Giralda, you can’t miss the massive landmark so it’s the easiest starting point. The final resting place of Christopher Columbus and a beautiful Gothic cathedral built in the 16th century will take your breath away! Go on the rooftop tour for a wholesome experience and a lesson in history. Make sure to check their website for hours of operation. Stroll amidst the cramped, narrow streets. Note the elegant flowered balconies, the decorated facades, and the hidden garden spaces tucked away. Take wonderful photos at Plaza de España, the elegant square in the middle of the city. Sit, rest and watch the Flamenco dancers!
Admire the Royal Alcázar
Head to Royal Alcázar of Seville, the captivating royal palace built in Moorish style, with gorgeous gardens, arches, and fountains. Dating all the way to the 10th century, the compound started as a residential fortress for the Muslim Abbadid dynasty. In the 14th century, the Castilian Christians expanded the fairytale complex and the Royal Alcázar was expanded throughout history to the vision we witness today.
Alcázar is still a residence for the Spanish Royal family! Scattered fountains spread throughout the seductive gardens. The maze of pathways, patios and secluded corners are sprinkled with charming orange trees. Grab a route map at the entrance if you’d like to plan your route, but it’s best to simply get lost. Buy your tickets online to avoid long wait times!
Visit One of The Museums
Don’t miss a chance to visit one of the many museums Seville has to offer. Since you’re spending one day in Seville, pick a museum according to your interest. Museo del Baile Flamenco offers a detailed look into the history and culture of flamenco, and you can even enjoy a live show. Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla is a contemporary art museum where you can see some of the masterpieces by Greco and Velazquez, perfect for all art lovers. History buffs can try Museo Arqueológico de Sevilla, the archeological museum located in Plaza de España (closed on Mondays).
Have Lunch At Lonja Del Barranco Market
Now that you’ve explored the major landmarks and museums, it’s time to treat yourself with a feast. Mercado Lonja Del Barranco is a two-floor gourmet food market where even the pickiest eater can satisfy their hunger. Facing the Guadalquivir river, the area is bustling with stalls of seafood, fried fish, meats, pies, cheeses, and whatever you can think of. Food is not the only thing you can indulge on. You can try wine or cocktails or see an art exhibition, cooking demonstration or live music!
Check Out Plaza de Toros
Just a three-minute walk from the market is the famous Plaza de Toros bullring. Bullfighting is unmistakably not for the faint of heart (or stomach), but it is a well-known tradition in Spain. If you’re not feeling the event, you should still see the Plaza for its gorgeous architecture and the sense of grandeur. The on-site Bullfighting Museum helps travelers to understand the reasoning, history and the tradition of Bullfighting in Spain. Go in with an open mind and learn something new, that’s what travel is all about!
Enjoy The Views from Metropol Parasol
Next on your one day in Seville itinerary is Plaza de la Encarnacion where you must check out Metropol Parasol, a fascinating wooden structure consisting of six mushroom-shaped parasols (folding canopies). Finished in 2011, The Metropol Parasol is the largest wooden structure in the world! See the lower-level and walk around Roman ruins and then step up and take in the massive size of the Metropol Parasol!
When you go all the way to the top of this astonishing sculpture in Seville, Spain you are around eight stories high. Plenty of room to walk around and savor the views of Seville, from all angles. You can even redeem your 4€ ticket for a drink at one of the cafes on top!
Watch the Sunset at La Terraza de EME
Head back towards the Cathedral of Seville where you’ll find La Terraza de EME rooftop bar. A perfect way to end your sightseeing day. Watch the sun go down as the night lights slowly take over the city from the urban rooftop bar while you sip on a Sangria, a drink originating in Spain. Reflect on your one day in Seville and relax by the rooftop pool before heading out to dinner. Take your time because the restaurants don’t open until 9!
Have Dinner at Calle Mateos Gago
Head to Mateos Gago street where you can indulge in tapas. On most menus, you’ll see these columns: tapas, media raciones (half plates) and raciones (full plates). These are simply three serving sizes of practically the same dish. Media raciones and raciones are meant to be shared, and tapas are generally individually sized, although many people share tapas among close friends or family.
Out of the many restaurants, it’s hard to pick where to go, luckily we can recommend a few. Taberna Belmonte is a fantastic choice for all seafood and wine lovers. Vegetarians will love Taberna Álvaro Peregil and if you’re looking for unique decor, try La Sacristía Tapas.
Spend The Night Dancing With Sevillians
Everywhere you go you’ll experience the city’s vibrant life and dance culture. Head to El Arenal district where you can witness live flamenco shows and explore many bars and tavernas. Check out Tablao El Arenal! If you want to extend your dancing until the early morning hours and you happen to find yourself in Seville on a weekend, head to Sala Cosmos, where you can dance until 7 am! If you’re looking for a central and comfortable hotel near the nightlife areas, check out the dazzling Hotel Fernando III.
Where to Stay in Seville, Spain
There are a few options for accommodation near Seville Airport, but the center is so close and compact that you can get the best out of your one day in Seville with the accommodation in the center. These are the best places to stay in Seville:
Hotel Amadeus & La Musica
Farnesio, 6, Old Town, 41004 Seville
Music lovers will adore this quaint hotel with a library of CDs (the now vintage items) and a decor dedicated to the love of classical music, art, and beauty. You can relax on the rooftop terrace and stay close to the action of the Old Town. The welcome drink is a nice way to start your one day in Seville, while the proximity of all attractions is great for those looking to manage their time wisely.
Hotel Fernando III
San José, 21, Old Town, 41004 Seville
In the Santa Cruz district, Hotel Fernando III is right next to the Seville Cathedral. Tapas, wine, and sangria and a gorgeous rooftop pool make this hotel the travelers favorite. Lovers of luxurious comfort and gorgeous views will have the best time here! The spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the city will set a standard for all your future travels!
Koisi Hostel Sevilla
Buiza y Mensaque 2, Old Town, 41004 Seville
A budget-friendly and comfortable hostel in the center of Sevilla, Koisi Hostel, is fantastic for travelers looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere and meet new people! The rooftop terrace is a great place to meet new like-minded friends while the proximity of the Old Town is perfect for those short on time.
Best Day Trips From Seville
Granada
Book a one day trip from Seville to Granada. The drive takes around two hours. The city stretches under the gorgeous mountain range of Sierra Nevada, surrounded by four rivers. Once you’re in Granada, visit the Moorish Alhambra palace complex. Tour the Medieval Moorish quarter of the Albaicín, stroll through the gorgeous streets bursting with flowers and graffiti art. Find the mysterious walled gardens called Carmens. Granada was a Muslim kingdom for 800 years but so many groups of people lived in the city. Explore the sites and try the tapas. You can never have too many tapas!
Cádiz
Just an hour south from Seville lies Cádiz, the oldest settlement in Europe! Surrounded by the sea from all sides, this port city is a gorgeous location for romantic getaways. If you happen to find yourself in Cádiz in February, you’ll witness the massive 10-day carnival! The famous poet Lord Byron was one of the notable Cádiz lovers, he lived in both Seville and in Cádiz. Once you’re in Cádiz, try the fresh fish at the La Viña fishing quarter, swim on one of the beaches or explore its ancient history. Cat lovers can check out the colony of cats that live along the waterfront. Cádiz is also famous for its watchtowers, it has around a 100 of them!
Aracena
Head one hour north of Seville and visit the typical Andalusian village Aracena with whitewashed rooftops contrasting the green background. Tour the beautiful cave complex Gruta de las Maravillas where you can see the hall of the diamonds, emeralds and shells. Visit the 13th century Aracena castle overlooking the village, Church of Nuestra Señora del Mayor Dolor or the seven-hall ham museum. You can experience the true essence of Andalusia in Aracena, so don’t miss a chance to visit this quaint little village!
Extra Tips For Visiting Seville
- Siesta or “nap time” means everything shuts down in the afternoon from 2 pm to 5 pm, so plan accordingly. Restaurants open even later, around 9 or 10 pm, but everything stays open later in the night.
- To avoid crowds, try to purchase tickets to all attractions in advance. You can buy everything online!
- The city is best explored on foot, so if you’re arriving with a car, park it at your hotel and walk the rest of your one day in Seville.
Romi R.
Romi is a freelance writer originally from Split, Croatia, currently residing in Toronto, Canada. She started travelling at a young age but recently started travelling full time. She lived in three different countries and wants to spend her life living the nomadic lifestyle. She has previously worked in content marketing, lifestyle blogging, market research, PR and every writer's rite of passage-the service industry.