2 Days In Seville: A Complete Itinerary For First-Time Visitors
Spending a weekend in Seville? Here’s how to make the most of your time here!
Seville, a large city with a small-town feel and the capital of Andalusia, is known for its stunning architecture, Flamenco culture, and tapas.
It’s a must-see on any trip to Spain. I visited Seville in the summer for a weekend trip while I lived in Portugal, and while the heat was overpowering, it was 100% worth it.
Seville is special and completely different from city centers like Madrid and Barcelona and offers a fascinating history with Muslim influence.
I appreciate the small-town culture, relaxed pace of life, and quiet neighborhoods.
If you’re wondering how much time to spend here, you could spend weeks exploring and find all the unique local spots.
However, two days in Seville are enough to hit the highlights and are a perfect weekend getaway!
With just two days in Seville, it helps to have a plan—and this itinerary covers it all!
It includes everything from exploring iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Alcázar and the Seville Cathedral, experiencing the local culture, wandering through various neighborhoods, and tasting all the tapas.
This 2-day guide gives you a glimpse into life in Seville, will help you navigate the city with ease, and ensures you’ll experience the best parts– so let’s get into it!
Seville Itinerary: 2 Days Overview
Two days in Seville may feel fast, but don’t worry! You can see and experience more than you realize, and I’ve created a guide that lets you do just that without feeling rushed.
Make it your own, too– switch up the order or swap activities– this trip is for YOU!
✨Day 1: Palaces, Cathedrals & Courtyards
✨Day 2: Parks & Plazas
Seville Day One: Palaces, Cathedrals & Courtyards
Your first day in Seville takes you back in time as you explore historic sites, such as the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Seville Cathedral, and Casa de Pilatos.
You’ll visit various neighborhoods as you go and experience what makes Seville unique.
Morning
Start your day off with a bang and see one of Seville’s most famous sights– the Royal Alcázar of Seville. Wander through the palace halls and expansive gardens.
It’s breathtaking, beautiful, and incorporates Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
Visiting the palace is an incredible way to learn about the history of Seville, and if you’re into photography, your camera will be very happy.
I recommend booking a tour with an audio guide to get the most out of the experience. Definitely book ahead of time, as it may be crowded!
➡️ Join a Guided Tour of The Royal Alcázar
From here, head next door to the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Seville Cathedral.
Inside, discover the tomb of Christopher Columbus, admire the stunning architecture, and climb La Giralda (the bell tower) for panoramic city views.
➡️ Get Tickets to See The Seville Cathedral
For lunch, check out Bar Alfalfa, a traditional Spanish bar offering classic tapas and a local atmosphere, near your next stop, Casa de Pilatos.
For options closer to the palace, check out Bar Vizcaíno, or for a fancier option, Enea (could be a great dinner option as well!).
Approximate time: 2-4 hours
Afternoon
Before heading to Casa de Pilatos, stroll through the Santa Cruz neighborhood, Seville’s oldest and most historic neighborhood.
Explore the former Jewish quarter’s alleys, colorful streets, beautiful gardens, and white-washed buildings.
As you arrive at Casa de Pilatos, get excited to step inside the lesser-known Andalusian palace known for its Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudéjar design.
The palace is beautiful and features stunning courtyards and rooms full of colorful tiles. This is one of my favorite stops in Seville!
➡️ Book Your Casa De Pilatos Ticket
Approximate time: 2 hours
Evening
End your day exploring the lively Arenal neighborhood, which extends to the eastern shore of the Guadalquivir River.
Check out the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, a world-famous bullring, and learn about the neighborhood’s bullfighting traditions.
➡️ Join a Guided Tour of Plaza de Toros
While Arenal is popular amongst tourists (for good reason), it maintains authenticity with its family-run and traditional restaurants.
This is one of the best neighborhoods for foodies, as trendy restaurants and bars are abundant, featuring both traditional tapas and modern, innovative options.
I recommend wandering the neighborhood and checking out all the restaurants until you find the one (or multiple) that stands out.
If you’re up for it and interested in nightlife, this is the spot! There are plenty of bars and clubs, so head over after dinner.
Approximate time: 2+ hours
Seville Day Two: Parks & Plazas
Wahoo! You’ve made it to your 2nd day in Seville!
Today, you’ll be immersed in nature and experience the local side of Seville.
Morning
Begin your day at one of Seville’s most iconic monuments, the Plaza de España. It is beautiful, and getting a head start in the morning will help you avoid crowds.
Walk along the bridges, admire stunning arches and the expanse of decorative tiles, and even rent a rowboat for a unique view of the architecture.
Once you’ve taken in Plaza de España, explore María Luisa Park– the park surrounding the plaza.
This peaceful park offers shaded paths, fountains, and a chance to slow down (& a welcome escape from the brutal heat if you’re visiting in the summer!).
Approximate time: 2 hours
Afternoon
Head across the Isabel II Bridge to the Triana neighborhood, known for its colorful buildings, traditional pottery, and flamenco culture.
Grab lunch at the Triana market, a cultural hub filled with fresh food stalls and incredible tapas.
It’s a favorite spot amongst both locals and tourists and offers a genuine taste of Andalusian cuisine.
After lunch, spend time exploring the neighborhood– this is always one of my favorite things to do in any city.
You’ll find local spots, unique streets, and plenty of shops without fail.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a Guadalquivir river cruise, see a Flamenco show, or take a Spanish cooking class!
➡️ Explore More of Triana with a Guided Tour
Once you’ve explored Triana, return to the city center and check out another awesome neighborhood and the proper Old Town of Seville, Alfalfa.
While the neighborhood has medieval roots, it now feels like a mix of history, local charm, and a trendy, laid-back vibe.
If you’re into shopping, you’re in luck! There are plenty of trendy stores, boutiques, antique stores, and flea markets to get lost in.
If you’re not careful, you may need an extra suitcase to get back!
Approximate time: 3+ hours
Evening
By the end of your second day, you may feel a bit tired (in the best way!).
I recommend staying in the Alfalfa neighborhood this evening, as there are plenty of bars and tapas restaurants to discover.
Grab a drink at one of the local bars and take a moment to relax before heading to dinner.
One of the best ways to experience a new city and culture is through its food, and Seville is a fantastic place for any foodie.
From traditional tapas to creative, modern takes on Spanish cuisine, there’s no shortage of amazing places to eat. Some great dinner options include:
📍Perro Viejo Tapas Bar– a sleek but relaxed space with exposed brick and great cocktails and tapas. The vibes are perfect!
📍Tradevo Centro– an innovative restaurant featured on the Michelin guide and known for its unique tapas and fresh ingredients.
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, end on a sweet note with dessert or grab a nightcap and toast to your final evening in Seville.
Need ideas on where to go? Check out the below:
📍Confitería La Campana– the most well-known dessert shop in Seville with a large variety of sweet treats.
📍Helados Rayas– an amazing local ice cream shop
📍The Second Room– a chill, stylish bar with great cocktails and a cozy vibe
Approximate time: 3-4 hours
What to Know Before Visiting Seville
Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind as you plan your trip to Seville:
✅The heat is real – Summers can be brutally hot, often reaching 100ºF (38ºC) or more. I visited in the summer, and it was still worth it, but I definitely didn’t do as much as I was planning, as the heat is incredibly draining.
If you visit between June and September, plan for early mornings, shaded afternoons, and lots of water. Spring and fall are ideal for more comfortable weather.
✅Locals eat late – Dinner typically starts around 9 or 10 pm, and lunch is the main meal of the day. Embrace the late schedule and enjoy a slow, leisurely pace.
✅You can walk almost everywhere – Seville is super walkable, especially in the historic center. Comfortable shoes are a must.
✅Public transport is easy – Seville has reliable buses, trams, and even rental bikes. Taxis and Uber are also available and affordable.
✅Tapas culture is real – It’s normal to hop between several places for food and drinks. Try one or two dishes at each spot and keep moving!
✅The city shuts down in the afternoon – Many shops and businesses close between 2–5pm for siesta, especially in the summer. Plan around it.
✅Sundays are quiet – Expect most shops to be closed, and use the time to explore parks or chill at a café.
✅Spanish is the main language – English is spoken in tourist areas, but knowing a few key Spanish phrases will go a long way.
✅Respect local customs – Dress modestly when visiting churches, and remember that Seville is deeply traditional in many ways.
✅Flamenco is best experienced live – While you can find tourist shows, small venues in Triana or Santa Cruz will give you a more intimate, unique experience.
Where To Stay
When choosing where to stay in Seville, think about what kind of trip you want.
If you’re into history and want to be close to landmarks, stay in or near Santa Cruz. For a trendier, more local feel, Alfalfa or La Alameda are great picks.
And if you’re looking for river views and a quieter experience, try Triana.
📍 Budget Option: Black Swan Hostel Sevilla – A stylish and social hostel in Seville’s historical city center with all the main attractions within walking distance.
➡️ Book Black Swan Hostel Sevilla
📍 Mid-Range Option: Hotel Amadeus Sevilla – A charming boutique hotel in Santa Cruz with a rooftop terrace and heated pool overlooking the city.
📍 Luxury Option: Hotel Alfonso XIII – One of Seville’s most iconic luxury hotels, with a beautiful courtyard and exceptional service.
FAQs
Planning a trip to Seville often comes with many questions! Here are some answers to questions I had (or heard from others) before visiting:
What is the best time to visit Seville?
Spring (April to early June) and fall (late September to early November) are ideal. The weather is warm but not unbearable, and the city feels alive with festivals and local events.
Do people speak English in Seville?
In touristy areas, yes. In smaller neighborhoods, not always. That said, locals are generally helpful and you can get by with basic Spanish and a few polite phrases.
What is Seville best known for?
Seville is famous for its stunning Moorish architecture, flamenco dancing, tapas, and being the cultural heart of Andalusia.
It’s also home to the Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and Plaza de España.
How do I get around Seville?
The city is incredibly walkable, especially in the old town. You can also use buses, trams, or bikes. Taxis and ride shares are easy to grab if needed.
If you’re coming from other parts of Spain or nearby European cities, Seville is also well-connected by train or bus.
Is Seville or Granada better?
They’re both amazing, and honestly, you can’t go wrong. Seville is larger, livelier, and great for food and flamenco.
Granada is smaller, more relaxed, and home to the Alhambra. If you have time, visit both!
Final Thoughts on 2 Days in Seville
While two days in Seville is on the shorter side, it’s absolutely worth it—you still have plenty of time to experience the best of the city!
Whether you’re exploring its various neighborhoods, visiting stunning cultural landmarks, or eating your way through endless tapas spots, every part of the experience gives you a genuine glimpse into life in Seville.
Even though it’s one of Spain’s major cities, it truly has a small-town feel—and that’s one of the things I love most about it.
It’s a place that feels layered, lived-in, and full of character in the best way.
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip and gives you everything you need to plan an adventure that’s both fun and meaningful.
You’re going to love it!
