Palaces, orange blossom and Flamenco in Seville
Lose yourself in Seville’s golden light, where palaces whisper Moorish tales, flamenco sets the nights on fire, and tapas flow as easily as the local sherry. With day trips to Córdoba and the white villages, plus time to soak in hammams and rooftop views, this week in Andalusia blends culture, food, and relaxation in irresistible style.
Day 1 – Arrival & First Tapas
Fly from the UK to Seville (approx. 2.5 hrs). Transfer to your hotel in Seville’s historic centre. You can do this cheaply via a shuttle bus, taking 30 minutes. If you plan to explore further afield during your stay, you could also hire a car. Spend the afternoon wandering the winding lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter: think cobblestone streets, orange trees, and whitewashed houses. Stop for a glass of local sherry and tapas in a lively bar. As the night falls on your Seville welcome, settle in with a sunset stroll past the Cathedral and Giralda Tower.
Day 2 – Royal Alcázar & Cathedral
Morning visit to the Real Alcázar, a Moorish palace with intricate courtyards and lush gardens (a must-see, and a Game of Thrones filming location if that’s your thing!) Afterwards, explore Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in the world, and climb the Giralda Tower for sweeping views. Why not skip some queues or take in a guided tour, with plenty of affordable options on Expedia. Take a café break in Plaza del Cabildo, then free time for shopping or a siesta in the afternoon. Take in a flamenco performance at a tablao in Triana for some evening entertainment.
Day 3 – Plaza de España & Riverside
Start the day at the Plaza de España, with its grand tiled bridges and fountains. Wander through Maria Luisa Park, full of palms, fountains, and romantic corners. Lunch in a riverside café. Later in the day, explore the Metropol Parasol, Seville’s modern landmark nicknamed “the Mushrooms,” where you can walk across the top for panoramic views. For dinner, try a bit of rooftop dining with Andalusian wine.
Day 4 – Córdoba Day Trip
Take the high-speed train (45 minutes) to Córdoba. Visit the breathtaking Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral with striped arches and golden light. Stroll through the Jewish Quarter, see the Roman Bridge, and admire Córdoba’s famous flower-filled patios. Lunch in a traditional tavern before returning to Seville.
Day 5 – Andalusian Flavours & Relaxation
Join a guided food market tour and cooking class to learn Andalusian classics like gazpacho, salmorejo, or spinach with chickpeas. Enjoy your creations over lunch! After a busy week so far, why not unwind at an Arab-style hammam spa with hot and cold baths and a massage. Follow that up with a light dinner of tapas and a walk through the atmospheric Triana neighbourhood.
Day 6 – Ronda or White Villages Adventure
Head into the Andalusian countryside. Option 1: visit Ronda, perched dramatically above a gorge, with its ancient bullring and breathtaking bridge. Option 2: explore the Pueblos Blancos, whitewashed mountain villages like Zahara de la Sierra or Grazalema, full of charm and stunning views. Return to Seville in the evening for a final feast of Iberian ham and local wine.
Day 7 – Farewell Seville
A slow final morning: breakfast of churros with chocolate (because why not), then a stroll through Triana’s ceramic shops for last souvenirs. Enjoy the relaxed riverside before your transfer back to the airport.
Cost Breakdown
The following outlines estimated costs per person, and includes flights, accommodation, food, activities & transfers. Prices will vary according to personal preference and time of year.
Budget: £700 to £850
Low cost hotels or guesthouses, casual tapas dining, free walking tours, regional trains for day trips.
Mid-Range: £1,000 to £1,300
Boutique hotels, mix of restaurants/tapas bars, guided tours, cooking class, hammam visit, day trips by high-speed train or coach.
Luxury: £1,500 to £2,500
Luxury hotels or converted palaces, fine dining, private guides, chauffeur-driven day trips or luxury car hire, spa treatments, rooftop dinners.
Itinerary Overview
This Seville itinerary leans heavily into culture, with palaces, cathedrals, flamenco, and Andalusian food experiences at its heart. Relaxation comes naturally too, whether it’s soaking in a hammam, wandering leafy parks, or sipping wine on a rooftop. A touch of adventure rounds things out with countryside day trips to Ronda and the White Villages.
When Should I go?
Spring brings the scent of orange blossoms and big celebrations like Feria de Abril, while autumn has golden light, fewer crowds, and harvest-season flavours. Summer can be fun if you love long, hot nights — but with daytime highs over 35°C, it’s best for heat-seekers only. Winter is mild and peaceful, making it a good option for a quieter, budget-friendly cultural escape.
