The magical city of Seville is the perfect place for shoulder season travel because it is hottest city in Europe. The city was built to try and shade people from the sun, so you’ll come across many kissing lanes. There is a major blend of culture from the Romans, Moors and Spanish and one of a kind structures throughout. You’ll also enjoy the many sweet smelling orange trees and delicious tapas. At the age of discovery, Seville was the largest and wealthiest in Spain. It’s full of flamenco spirit and bullfighting.

Day 1

AM Visit the stunning Royal Alcazar and see the blending of the Moorish and Christian styles come to life in a royal palace. Get lost in the beautiful gardens too.

PM Visit the mosque turned Cathedral of Seville. It’s the largest cathedral in the world and the third largest church. When you’ve exhausted the exterior and interior, climb the Giralda Bell Tower for a panoramic view of the city (definitely worth the money!). After, spend some time strolling through the narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz lined with colorful houses, small churches, and mini squares with fountains and statues.

Day 2

AM Spend some time at Plaza de Espana. The huge architectural feat displays a detailed tile representation of each province in Spain. In the middle is a big fountain, and along the perimeter is a long moat. Climb to one of the balconies to get a good view. From here, walk through the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa, the largest green space in Seville. There is a lot to see from walking paths to plants, to water features.

PM Cross the Puente Isabel II, to explore Triana. Walk through the Mercado de Triana and try something fresh. While in Triana, take notice of all the decorative azulejos and explore the neighborhood. You can stop in at Centro Ceramic Triana to learn about the traditional ceramics industry. Then take a slow stroll along the Calle Betis waterfront.

Day 3

AM Wander through the Museo de Bellas Artes located in a beautiful old convent housing masterpieces from the 15th-20th century. Then taxi up to see the stunningly ornate Basilica de la Macarena and the La Esperanza (weeping statue of the Virgin Mary).

PM Spend the afternoon wandering around Alameda de Hercules, sampling tapas and bars. Around sunset, head to Las Setas (or Metropol Parasol). It’s a large wooden structure that many think look like giant mushrooms. You can get a pretty view from the top. Finish your evening at Casa de la Memoria for a Seville specialty Flamenco dance.

Day 4

ALL DAY – Take a 45 minute train ride to Cordoba, the old capital of the Moors. Make sure to visit Mezquita (a Mosque built on top of a church),  the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Roman Bridge, Plaza de la Corredera, and get lost wandering through the old town and Jewish Quarter.

Day 5

AM Peak into Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador to see ruins from the 14th century discovered during renovations. Then walk to Plaza de la Pescaderia to get a glimpse at an underground Roman aqueduct through the ‘skylights’ in the square. After, head to Casa de Pilatos to see a beautiful old palace full of azulejos, art and magnificent gardens. Make sure to see the upstairs apartment too.

PM Tour the Royal Tobacco Factory which resembles an old fortified palace. It once produced 75% of all cigars on the continent. After, walk through Parque Prado de San Sebastian on your way to Jardin de Murillo, a charming urban park.

I don’t usually give food recommendations, but Estrella Restaurant is magnificent!

Something doesn’t interest you, or have more time? Here are some more ideas

Add on Activities in Seville

-Hospital de los Venerables – Houses Diego Valazquez works, it used to be a priest residence

-Museo Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija – An architectural gem housing roman mosaics, ceramic tiles and a beautiful courtyard

-Archeological Museum – houses Roman ruins from Italica and Moorish ruins from Medina Azahara

-Take a bus to Italica to see Roman ruins

-See a bullfight or just go to the museum at Plaza de Toros