It's time for a long weekend in sunny Seville! Here, in the heart of Andalusia, the cobbled streets whisper the secrets of a rich and colorful history. Here, the bewitching scents of orange and jasmine mingle with the passionate rhythms of flamenco. You'd think you were there already, wouldn't you? From architectural gems to astonishing discoveries, Seville invites you to embark on an unforgettable sensory journey. What to do in Seville in 3 days? Follow our day-by-day guide!
Day 1: Alcazar and Seville Cathedral
Your 3-day weekend in Seville begins in the historic heart of the city. From the Santa Cruz district to the Alcazar, this is a promising start to your stay!
Morning: Historic Seville
The Santa Cruz district, once Seville's Jewish quarter, is now home to the Alcazar palace and Giralda tower. As you walk, you'll discover a labyrinth of narrow streets with typical Andalusian charm. Your stroll takes you to the Plaza Patio de Banderas, with its lovely view of the Giralda. Meanwhile, the charming Plaza Doña Elvira, with its orange trees and fountain, is an invariable invitation to escape. From historic streets to charming alleyways, you arrive at theHospital de los Venerables Sacerdotes and its adjoining Baroque church. Art lovers, this is the place for you!
The most emblematic building, however, remains the famous Alcázar royal palace, to which you can devote a good 2 hours of your visit (remember to book your entrance tickets in advance of your visit right here). Seville's Real Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dazzles with its inimitable Mudéjar style. Originally a Roman fort, it was transformed into a castle in the Xᵉ century by Abd-ar-Rahman III, then into a palace by King Al-Moetamid in the XIᵉ century. Your visit allows you to discover the Patio de las Doncellas and the Salón de Embajadores, among other splendors. Click here to discover our tips before your Alcazar visit.
Afternoon: the supremacy of Spanish buildings
After a well-deserved lunch break, with tapas or a Cocido Andaluz, head for Seville's Seville Cathedrallocated very close to the palace (so stick around for lunch!). Built on the remains of an Almohad mosque, it embodies Seville's history, combining conquest and Christian faith. It's a real historical gem that we recommend you discover by booking this guided tour (which will also save you the wait at the entrance) . Not to be missed are the tomb of Christopher Columbus, the Capilla Real, and masterpieces by Murillo and Goya. A little surprise for the kids: there's also a treasure room!
After this hour-long tour, you'll head for the Marquis de l'Algaba Palace, a jewel of Seville's nobility. Here, the Mudejar Center reveals the art of Hispanic hybridization through 111 exhibits. There are many treasures from the past to contemplate: jars, signet rings and Mudejar utensils. Superb witnesses to a past where Moorish and Renaissance influences coexisted harmoniously.
Finally, your first day of this 3-day weekend in Seville ends at the Basilica de la Macarena, a neo-Baroque showcase dating from 1949. Promise you won't have to dance or sway to the music! Just admire a colorful architectural treasure, and the revered statue of the Virgen de la Esperanza, adorned with diamond tears and a golden crown. The evening is rounded off with a delicious meal in the relaxed atmosphere of the Macarena district.
Day 2: Plaza de España, Triana and Seville's Fine Arts Museum
Art and culture in all their forms take center stage on this second day of your 3-day weekend in Seville.
Morning: A stroll through the heart of Seville
You set foot in one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, not to say the world! At the heart of the Plaza de España, all you can say is: wow! Created for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition by Aníbal González, this Renaissance-style architectural masterpiece stands out in all its splendour, in an impressive semicircle 200 metres in diameter.
A little background information : this square symbolizes Spain's reconciliation with its former American colonies.
Its unique architecture is marked by two imposing towers and a series of buildings used mainly by public administrations. You'll notice its 52 benches adorned with mosaics representing the Spanish provinces. It's time to get out your cameras!
If you'd like to organize an unusual activity, for an EVJF for example, we recommend booking this guided segway tour, which will take you to all the must-see places in Seville.
After this wonderful discovery, head for the Triana district, with its pleasant bohemian atmosphere. Renowned for its many artisan workshops - notably around the Plaza del Altozano and the Triana Bridge - this is Seville's vibrant cultural heart. Among its treasures, we invite you to discover the Château de Saint-Georges, proud of its exhibitions on the Inquisition. From Monday to Saturday, you'll also find the Triana Market, a reflection of the local soul. It's well worth a visit!
Good to know: you can eat at the Triana market, which is packed with great local dishes.
Afternoon: Seville's Museum of Fine Arts
The Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla, housed in a 1662 Mudejar monastery, ranks just behind Madrid's Museo del Prado. In short, a major reference point in Andalusia and Spain, which you can discover in the company of a guide by booking right here! You can admire works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, featuring Spanish masters such as Murillo, Velásquez and Zurbarán. Originally, in 1939, the Musée des Beaux-Arts preserved works from ecclesiastical confiscations. Later, it integrated private collections, constituting its rich permanent collection since 1970. To visit this exceptional museum on the Plaza del Museo, allow around 1h30.
A 10-minute walk later, you'll arrive at the Metropol Parasol, nicknamed the "mushrooms of Seville". Here you can admire an architectural feat by Jürgen Mayer, inaugurated in 2011 on the Plaza de la Encarnación. Reputed to be the largest wooden structure in the world, this work was chosen to revitalize the space, while integrating the remains of an ancient Roman colony. Take your time to stroll along the pedestrian promenade, while enjoying an exceptional panoramic view from the terrace. A visit to the archaeological museum is a must, before taking advantage of the many stores, bars and restaurants to round off this wonderful day.
Day 3: The Gold Tower and the Arenal district
Is your 3-day weekend in Seville about to come to an end? Then make the most of it with these final must-sees!
Morning: Seville's maritime history and flamenco in the spotlight
Discover a piece of Seville's history at the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold), one of Seville's most emblematic monuments. This 12th-century military observation tower, originally part of the city's defenses, was used to control naval transport on the Guadalquivir. Why the name? Some say it evokes the golden age of Andalusia and the flourishing gold trade with Latin American colonies. For others, it comes from the golden glow of its summit or the golden reflection on the river. Take advantage of your visit to admire the collections of the Museo Naval, where :
- maritime instruments,
- models,
- and maps of maritime routes.
A vibrant zone of gastronomy and history, the Arenal district also invites you to discover the Mercado del Arenal, combining retail sales and a varied gastronomy. Your Sevillian stroll then takes you to the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, emblematic of bullfighting and flamenco. The architecture is superb! Are you a flamenco fan? Head for the Tablao El Arenal, where you can admire typical Spanish shows.
Afternoon: Cruise on the Guadalquivir River
After this cultural morning, treat yourself to a breath of fresh air! Numerous boat excursions on the nearby Guadalquivir River allow you to appreciate Seville's emblematic sites from the water. From the classic to the eco-friendly, there's something for everyone! However, we recommend that you take advantage of our partner's rates by booking right here. It's also possible to book an excursion with tapas. This allows you to admire Seville from the river, at a leisurely pace, while enjoying Spanish delicacies.
Want to see even more? Check out our 17 must-sees in Seville!
Where to stay in Seville for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Whether you're visiting Seville fora road trip, a weekend break or a longer stay, you'll be thrilled by the sounds of flamenco and the bright sunshine. Drop your bags in El Arenal, El Alfalia and Barrio Santa Cruz, and let yourself go!
- The most luxurious
When luxury is the name of the game in Spain, Las Casas de la Juderia is the place to go. From verdant patios to fountains, the luxurious ambience invariably invites you to relax and let go. Book your stay here to book this upmarket hotel with all its charm. A real favorite!
- Excellent value for money
Treat yourself to affordable high-end amenities at Las Casas de los Mercaderes. The typically Andalusian atmosphere immerses you in the local culture with refinement. The superb communal areas invite you to escape, before moving on to the spacious guest rooms. A beautiful address click here to book.
- The best location
Close to Seville Cathedral, the Museum of Fine Arts and many other points of interest, the Monte Triana welcomes you to its spacious rooms. A bar and gym round out the hotel's excellent facilities. Click here to find out more.
Want to extend your stay? Discover the 15 must-sees in Andalusia.
Life is sweet in Andalusia! An ideal destination for retirement, Seville offers sunshine, history, a gentle way of life and great sightseeing. Just as in France, every corner of Spain has its own unique landscapes. Discover the 21 must-see things to do in Spain on a longer trip. In any case, we advise you to travel in spring, so as not to suffer too much from the heat. It's hot in Andalusia, very hot!
Here are the most popular things to do in Seville during a 2- or 3-day stay:
