What to see in Seville in 3 days: an itinerary between art, flamenco and history
Seville is not only one of the most fascinating cities inAndalusia , but it is also a concentration of history, culture, architectural beauty and Spanish passion. Capital of the region, the city is famous for its Moorish buildings, picturesque neighborhoods, the famous flamenco scene and the unique atmosphere that can be felt at every corner. In three days it is possible to discover many of its wonders, moving comfortably on foot in its historic center . Here is an itinerary to discover what to see in Seville in 3 days.
Day 1: The heart of Seville Seville Cathedral and GiraldaThe Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Sede is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world . It also houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus, as well as artistic wonders such as the majestic Retablo Mayor. The Giralda, the old Almohad minaret converted into a bell tower , is over 90 meters high and can be climbed via a ramp once used by horses. From the top there is a spectacular view of all of Seville.
Archive of the IndiesNot far from the cathedral is the Archivo General de Indias, established by Charles III in 1785. It houses unique documents on the colonization of the Americas. Admission is free and the building itself, with its large courtyard and monumental staircase designed by Lucas Cintora, is an architectural marvel. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Cathedral and the Real Alcázar.
Royal AlcazarOne of the absolute wonders of Seville: a royal residence still in use, the Real Alcázar is a complex of palaces, gardens and courtyards in Mudejar, Renaissance and Gothic styles . Among the most fascinating places are the Patio de las Doncellas and the Salón de Embajadores. The gardens are a true green labyrinth, with fountains, orange trees, roses and palm trees, and represent a masterpiece of Spanish-Islamic landscaping.
Santa Cruz neighborhoodYou can end the morning by walking through the most romantic neighborhood in the city : a maze of narrow streets, flower-filled squares and white houses. An old judería, the area retains a timeless charm. The Callejón del Agua is one of the most evocative places, with its orange blossom scents and proximity to the Real Alcázar Gardens.
Museum of Flamenco DanceIn the afternoon, you can immerse yourself in Andalusian culture with a visit to the Museo del Baile Flamenco, created by the famous bailaora Cristina Hoyos. The museum hosts interactive exhibits, original costumes and daily shows that tell the essence of flamenco, Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .
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The second largest church in Seville after the Cathedral. A jewel of Spanish Baroque , with an opulent interior and rich in artistic details. Entrance is included with the Cathedral ticket and allows you to admire one of the most elaborate altars in the city.
Palacio de la Condesa de LebrijaA palace-museum that houses one of the most beautiful collections of Roman mosaics outside Itálica. The visit to the upper floor is guided and allows you to discover a surprising collection of artefacts, ceramics, period furniture and testimonies of the Sevillian nobility.
Setas de Sevilla and AntiquariumAnd how to end the day if not under the futuristic “Setas” in Plaza de la Encarnación ? This wooden structure, among the largest in the world, houses a panoramic viewpoint, an events space and the Antiquarium, an archaeological site with remains from the Roman and Visigothic eras . At night, the play of lights makes the place even more spectacular.
Day 2: between the Guadalquivir and the Parque de María Luisa Tower of GoldSymbol of the city, the Torre del Oro is a 13th-century defensive tower overlooking the Guadalquivir River. Built by the Almohads, it served to protect access to the port. Today it houses the Naval Museum and from the top there is a splendid view of the riverside and the Real Maestranza.
House of ScienceLocated in the Peruvian Pavilion of the 1929 Ibero-American Expo, it is an ideal stop for families: it offers interactive scientific exhibits and a planetarium that engages children and adults.
Military History MuseumInside the majestic Plaza de España, this museum tells the story of Spanish military history with uniforms, weapons and models. It is free to enter and often hosts themed guided tours.
Plaza de España and Parque de María LuisaThe Plaza de España is one of the most spectacular spaces in Seville , with its little bridges, canals and decorative ceramics that represent all the provinces of Spain. It is surrounded by the greenery of the María Luisa Park, donated to the city by the Duchess of Montpensier and converted into a public park in 1914. Fountains, statues, ancient trees and shaded paths make it perfect for relaxing.
Plaza América and the Park MuseumsIn the afternoon there is time to explore the splendid Plaza América, flanked by three historic buildings : the Archaeological Museum (currently closed), the Pabellón Real and the Museum of Popular Arts and Customs, which houses one of the richest collections of Andalusian popular ceramics in Europe.
Seville AquariumAt the end of the day, especially for those traveling with children or for enthusiasts of all ages, the Acuario offers an immersive experience among bull and hammerhead sharks, matamata turtles, giant octopuses and hundreds of other species. The route ideally follows the journey of Magellan, which started right from Seville.
Day 3: Markets and Art Plaza de Toros de la MaestranzaThe oldest bullfighting amphitheater in Spain. Even if you are not a fan of bullfighting, the museum inside allows you to understand its historical and cultural value. The white and yellow arches of the arena are one of the iconic symbols of the city.
Isabel II Bridge and Triana neighborhoodCrossing the river on the Triana Bridge, the oldest iron bridge in Spain , inspired by the Carrousel in Paris, you enter the Triana neighborhood , famous for flamenco, ceramics and its popular soul. It is definitely worth walking through the streets of the neighborhood and getting lost.
Castle of San JorgeAt the foot of the bridge is the Castillo de San Jorge, the seat of the Spanish Inquisition until the 18th century. Today it houses a free-access memory museum that offers an immersive journey through the history of the building and the courthouse.
Triana Market and Cerámica CenterDon't miss a stroll through the scents of the covered market to taste traditional tapas in its internal bars. Not far away, the Centro Cerámica tells the story of the neighborhood's artisan tradition, with ancient ovens, utensils and decorated majolica.
Museum of Fine ArtsIn the afternoon, you can return to the center to admire masterpieces by Murillo, Zurbarán and Velázquez in the second most important museum in Spain , after the Prado. Housed in a former convent, the museum is a journey through Andalusian religious and baroque painting.
Basilica del Gran Poder and Alameda de HérculesThe statue of Cristo del Gran Poder is one of the most venerated in the city. The temple is full of sacred art and relics . After the visit, the ideal is to relax in the Alameda de Hércules, an old urban garden that has now become a meeting point for young people, artists and tapas lovers.
Basilica of the Macarena and historic wallsThe journey can end at the Basilica of the Macarena, dedicated to the Virgin of Hope , protagonist of the Good Friday procession. Next to it, the 12th century Almohad walls represent the last Islamic defensive wall of the city still visible.
