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Steeped in tradition, culture, tapas and scorching sunshine, Seville is a superb short break destination – perfect for a weekend away. There’s so much to see and do in this Andalucian hotspot that a couple of days might not feel like long enough, but here’s how to make the most of every minute of 48 hours in Seville.
Friday 7pm
After landing at San Pablo Airport, the obvious mission is to quickly check in at your hotel, dump your bags, and get immersed in the city’s vibrant nightlife. You’ll be hungry, so head straight to what is said to the oldest tapas bar in Seville – El Rinconcillo (which actually has a claim to being the oldest restaurant in Spain, having been established in 1670). Expect to have to wait for a table but there’s no real rush – it’s open until 1.30am.
Saturday 9.30am
Hopefully, you won’t have had too much of a late one, because ideally you’ll be up and about relatively early to embrace a day of sightseeing. Fuel up on breakfast before hitting Real Alcazar, a former Moorish Fort turned into a maze of relaxing courtyards and gardens – and also, famously, used to film scenes from Game of Thrones.
Saturday 11.30am
Seville Cathedral is the third largest church in the world and this should be next on your list. Recognised as UNESCO World Heritage, it’s a Gothic masterpiece. Consider this nugget of info from andalucia.com: ‘It is said that when the plans were drawn up, church elders stated, “Let us build a church so beautiful and so magnificent that those who see it finished will think we are mad.”‘
Saturday 1.30pm
Time for a late lunch – everything takes place a little later in Spain. There’s no shortage of places to eat; simply have a stroll around the city and you’ll find downtown streets filled with tapas bars, cafes and restaurants. Lonely Planet has compiled a selection of recommendations here.
Saturday 4pm
Following an early afternoon siesta to revive body and mind, it might be time to dial it down a little. A visit to the calming environment of the Plaza de Espana might be in order, where you can admire stunning architecture and take a seat at one of the 58 benches, positioned in recesses decorated with tiles depicting historic episodes for each Spanish province.
Saturday 7pm
Kick off Saturday night at the Museum of Flamenco – if you can, get there in time for its hour-long flamenco show. There are also shows at 5pm and 8.45pm, if you want to move your schedule around.
Saturday 9pm
There’s perhaps no better place to be on a Saturday night in Seville than Alameda de Hercules, a lively area filled with bars and terraces. It’s less touristy in spirit, with a bohemian kind of feel – and in the summer there are many free, open air events going on.
Sunday 10.30am
You probably deserve a more leisurely start to Sunday morning, so indulge in a lie-in and a chilled-out breakfast before heading to Maria Luisa Park. Made for a Sunday, this botanical garden is a ‘paradise of plants, paths, birds, fountains and monuments’ according to one reviewer.
Sunday 1pm
Within walking distance of Maria Luisa Park is Restaurant Oriza, in San Fernando. It’s a prime spot for a couple of hours spent lunching – a quick glance at the online menu shows chef’s suggestions including warm octopus salad with Iberian bacon, confited baby lamb loin and sticky rice with Iberian pork cheeks. Yes, please!
Sunday 3pm
The flight home beckons but there’s a few hours before you leave Seville – time to pack in a visit to the Metropol Parasol, which is a huge wooden structure located in the old quarter of the city. It houses an archaeological museum, food market, restaurant and – perhaps best of all – a fantastic viewing area on the top floor. Visitors can look down on the city from 30m up.
Sunday 7pm
That’s it; you’re back at the airport and waving farewell to Seville. You’ve probably fallen in love with the city though and already planning a return visit – if so, click here to check hotel and flight prices.