Travel Guide Budget and Itinerary for Seville, Spain

I wanted to visit a different city when I returned to Spain. I had Seville in mind because of its rich culture and history.  

Read more about my adventure in Seville.

Travel Guide Budget and Itinerary for Seville

Located in Andalusia, Sevilla or Seville city is the capital of Sevilla the province. Seville has been a thriving hub for culture and commerce for centuries, dating to the times of Roman rule. The moors, beginning with the Abbadid dynasty and subsequent rulers, further expanded the prestige, influence, and affluence of Seville. The Spanis Christians expelled the moors and changed the identity of Seville. The Spanish conquest of the Americas led to prosperity. Fast forward to today, the city attracts millions of tourists annualy. Its blend of Christian and Muslim influences give it a distinct culture and history. 

How to Get a Schengen Visa

You'll need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. The good news is if you have a visa for one Schengen member country, you can enter all of them. The requirements are similar but the visa application centers might be different. I got my visas from Poland, Czechia, Italy, and Austria. 

You can read more about my Schengen visa experience here: how to get a Schengen visa

How to Get to Seville

You can take the bus, train or plane to get to Seville. Seville has its own airport connecting it to some cities in Europe. You can take the airport shuttle to the city. Your budget option is to take the bus. You can check out www.alsa.com for schedules and prices. The train is also an option; however, it's often more expensive than the bus. You can check out www.renfe.com for train schedules and prices.

Things to Do in Seville

When planning your budget and itinerary for Seville, these are some of the attractions you can visit and the things you can do.

Catedral de Sevilla

This stunning piece of Gothic architecture will immediately grab your attention. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site (if you keep track of sites you visit). It dates to the 15th century and has an elaborate interior. One tidbit about the cathedral is that it "Christianized" a former mosque and integrated it into its structure. Its woodcarvings are exquisite and detailed. Its cavernous interior will make you feel its grandiose atmosphere. Inside you'll find elaborate chapels (two of which are the Capilla Mayor and Capilla Real), burials (one of which belongs to Christopher Columbus), and beautiful religious artwork.

Real Alcázar

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important and historic structure in Seville. The fort dates to the Islamic epoch of the city. The Abbadid Dynasty and subsequent rulers over the centuries expanded the complex during their reign. The Christians retook Seville and redesigned the complex following Mudejar architecture (which blends Arabic and Gothic features). The royal family of Spain still uses a part of the Alcazar as their residence in Seville. The Real Alcazar was also a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Plaza de España

This plaza is an iconic structure which you shouldn't miss while in Seville. It has a canal, balustraded balconies and an elaborate Neo-Moorish building. Admire the tile work scattered in different parts of the plaza. It's also a popular venue for cultural events and concerts.

Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla

This bullring is one of the finest in the country. It has a capacity for approximately 12,500 people. This landmark dates to the 18th century. It has its own museum where visitors can see displays and exhibits about traditional matadors, photos, and paintings related to bullfighting. 

Archivo General de Indias

This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains an archive of documents from the colonial years of Spain. The Spanish government of the time had it built to oversee their international territories. You'll find centuries old documents on display during your visit.

Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador

This Baroque-inspired church has a pinkish and elaborate facade. Its interior has detailed artwork and is home to two beautiful altarpieces, an 18th century organ, and a centuries old sacristy.

Torre del Oro

The Torre del Oro is a 13th century tower. It was part of the defensive fortifications of Seville. The Spaniards used it as a watchtower to thwart invaders. If you're interested, you can visit the Museo Marítimo de Sevilla inside the tower.

Metropol Parasol

Amid the ancient and traditional buildings and structures in Seville, you'll find a modern architectural wonder, the Metropol Parasol. Jürgen Mayer, a German architect, created this structure. It has a mushroom-like shape and provides you with overlooking views. There's an entrance fee to go up though.

Barrio de Triana

This historic district is far from the tourist attractions of Seville, which gives it a lost in time atmosphere. It has cobblestone streets, distinct architecture, and it is a traditional potters' district. You'll find beautiful ceramic tiles, plates, pitchers and other related products here. The colorful patterns you see on the products are a legacy of the region's Moorish influence. 

Barrio de Santa Cruz

If you're looking for a place to go for a leisurely stroll in, the Barrio de Santa Cruz is it. This charming neighborhood will take you back in time. 

Watch a Flamenco Dance

Flamenco is an artform that combines singing and dancing. The dancers and the singers elicit strong emotions from spectators. I would agree with this after watching a performance at the Casa de la Memoria. The performers showcase their technical prowess and passion through song and dance.

Day trip to Cordoba

If you have one full day to spare, consider going on a day trip to Cordoba. The highlight of many visitors is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Mezquita (a.k.a. The Great Mosque). When you explore the complex, you'll see a mix of Christian and Islamic architectural influences. Explore the Old Jewish Quarter, Calleja de las Flores, cross the Puente Romano (bridge), and check out a few other places such as the Palacio de Viana, and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos among others. A day trip isn't enough to see everything, but it does give you enough time to see the highlights.

Other places you might want to include in your itinerary are:

• Casa de Pilatos
• Ayuntamiento de Sevilla (Town Hall)
• Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija
• Museo Arqueológico de Sevilla

Getting around Seville

It's easy to get around Seville on foot. I walked most of the time during my trip. However, the city also has an extensive public transportation network. You can take the metro, tram, or bus to get to places. You can also use taxis if you don't want to walk too much.

Where to Stay in Seville

You can find all sorts of accommodation based on your budget. I usually stay in hostel dorms because they're the most budget-friendly. I'm often out most of the day anyway, that's why dorms are a go-to option. If you can splurge on accommodation, why not? I often browse www.booking.com whenever I look for a place to stay. You can book through their website or go directly to your chosen accommodation.

Budget for Seville

Spain isn't exactly the cheapest country you can visit in Europe. However, you can manage with a budget of around €80 per day. This number covers a bed in a hostel dorm, public transportation, a few paid attractions, and budget meals. You can increase your budget or reduce it depending on your travel style. You can still have a good time in Seville regardless of your budget.

You might want to read my other posts about Europe:

• Budget and itinerary for Porto
• Budget and itinerary for Paris
• Budget and itinerary for Barcelona
• Budget and itinerary for Granada
• Budget and itinerary for Lisbon

Itinerary for Seville

Here's a sample itinerary for your trip to Seville.

Day 1

Real Alcázar

Catedral de Sevilla

Archivo General de Indias

Watch a Flamenco Dance in the evening

Day 2

Day trip to Cordoba

Day 3

Plaza de España

Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla

Barrio de Santa Cruz

Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador

Metropol Parasol

Day 4 

Barrio de Triana

You can add more days or do a quick trip to see the highlights.