Visit Sevilla in 2 days

Where to Stay in Sevilla

Choosing where to stay in Sevilla matters more than you might think: the city’s charm comes from wandering narrow streets, lingering in plazas and crossing the river at sunset, so a base that keeps those moments easy makes your two days feel twice as long. Pick a location that puts the sights within walking distance or a short taxi ride away and you’ll avoid precious time spent in transit. Think in terms of neighborhoods rather than individual hotels — proximity is the simplest way to relax into the rhythm of the city.

Sevilla is organized around its historic core and the Guadalquivir river. The compact old town contains the cathedral, winding alleys and major museums; across the river lie lively, terrace-filled neighborhoods. This geography means you can be centrally located and still enjoy quieter evenings: daytime exploration is mostly on foot, while evenings can be a short stroll or a quick taxi ride back to your room. Understanding the layout helps you choose a place that matches your energy level and interest in nightlife versus calm.

For easy visits to the Plaza de toros de la Maestranza, consider staying in or near El Arenal or the adjacent historic center — you’ll be a few minutes’ walk from the bullring and riverside monuments. If the Columbus Monument is a priority, look for accommodation close to the riverside parks or near Triana, which gives a relaxed, local vibe while keeping you a short walk from those sights. The atmospheric Santa Cruz quarter offers classic Sevillian streets and is still within easy reach of both landmarks, while La Macarena gives a more residential, less touristy alternative.

Transport in Sevilla is friendly and straightforward: most visitors walk or cycle between attractions, city bikes (Sevici) and scooters are plentiful, and reliable buses and taxis fill the gaps. The city’s tram and metro network is limited for short stays, so focus on walkability when choosing a neighborhood. If you plan day trips, ensure easy access to main bus or train stations rather than relying on remote hotels.

Finally, be reassured that good options exist across these neighborhoods. For a two-day trip, prioritize short distances to the sights you care about, quiet rooms that face inner patios rather than street noise, and basic comforts like air conditioning in summer. A centrally located, simple place will let you sleep well and spend your time where it matters: tasting tapas, watching the sunset by the river and soaking up Sevilla’s atmosphere.

Getting Around Sevilla

Seville is a delightfully compact city, which makes public transport surprisingly easy to use even if it's your first time here. The network of TUSSAM buses, the single-line Metro de Sevilla and the regional Renfe Cercanías trains cover the essential corridors, while much of the historic centre is wonderfully walkable. Signs and announcements are often simple and friendly, and many drivers and shopkeepers will help you if you hesitate — so don’t worry, you’ll get where you need to go. 🚇

A practical tip: if you plan to hop on and off, pick up a rechargeable Tarjeta Multiviaje or a bonobús (the 10-ride ticket) rather than paying single fares every time. You can buy and top up these cards at metro stations, tobacconists, or ticket machines, and you must validate them on board or at the station turnstiles. Contactless bank cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted, but having the local card saves time and a few euros if you’re doing multiple short journeys. 🎫

Use Google Maps or apps like Moovit to plan in real time — choose the public transport option and it will show bus numbers, metro stops and expected arrival times. The app also tells you whether a trip is mostly walking or requires a transfer, which is handy in Seville because a five- or ten-minute walk along the river can be far more pleasant than a two-stop bus ride. I always check the suggested route and then glance at the map to pick the most scenic option. 🗺️

Money-wise, walking is your best friend in the centre: many attractions are clustered close together, so you save on tickets and discover little plazas and tapas bars along the way. For longer hops or if you're short on time, the TUSSAM network plus the Metro de Sevilla will be efficient, and using a multi-ride card typically works out cheaper than buying single tickets each time. Keep an eye on off-peak travel if you want quieter buses and a more relaxed ride.

On my last trip we stood outside the Plaza de toros de la Maestranza, maps open and sunscreen ready, and decided to walk instead of queueing for a bus. We strolled along the river, enjoyed views of the old walls and Torre del Oro, and arrived at the Columbus Monument in about 12 minutes — faster than waiting for a bus and far more charming. If you’d rather skip the walk, a short TUSSAM ride validated with a Tarjeta Multiviaje will get you there in minutes; either way, Seville makes it feel wonderfully simple.

What to Pack for Sevilla

I adore Sevilla’s plazas and slow, sunlit streets—on my last two-day run I was out for 10+ hours both days and walked nearly 15 miles total. For a short trip focused on monuments, fountains and historic quarters you need smart, light packing: things that keep you comfortable while you wander, protect your phone and wallet, and respect local sites. Below are the essentials I always bring and why each one saved my day more than once.

1. Comfortable walking shoes (Ecco Soft 7 or similar): I wore Ecco Soft 7 leather sneakers on my 15-mile day and my feet felt fine at the cathedral steps — they give cushioning for cobbles and breathability for heat. Why: Sevilla’s old streets are uneven; supportive shoes prevent blisters and sore calves so you can be on your feet for 8–12 hours visiting plazas and monuments.

2. Cross-body bag (anti-theft style): I use a small cross-body with lockable zips and a slash-proof strap—keeps my camera and passport handy while discouraging grab attempts in crowded spots. Why: narrow alleys and busy viewpoints mean pickpockets are possible; a secure bag lets you move quickly without clutching valuables the whole time.

3. Weather-appropriate clothing (light layers, breathable fabrics): In summer I pack linen shirts and a light scarf; in spring or autumn a thin merino layer and a compact windbreaker. I remember sweating through a cotton tee at midday once and a quick change into a dry top made the evening cathedral visit pleasant. Why: Sevilla’s temperature swings and strong sun demand breathable, layerable clothes for comfort and modesty at some memorial sites.

4. EU power adapter (Type C/E/F) and charging cable: I forgot an adapter once and had to buy an expensive one at the airport. Why: Spain uses 230V Type C/E/F sockets — you’ll want a compact adapter so your phone, camera and small electronics can be charged every evening after long days of photos and maps.

5. Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh): A 10,000 mAh power bank kept my phone alive through a 12-hour sightseeing day and multiple photo sprees. Why: with constant GPS, photos and ticket scanning, your battery will nosedive; a reliable power bank prevents getting stranded without maps or reservations.

6. Optional: Collapsible water bottle and a sun hat/sunglasses: I refill a 500–750 ml bottle at fountains and shops and wear a foldable hat when the sun peaks; once saved me from a throbbing headache after hours in the sun. Why: hydration and sun protection are simple fixes that keep sightseeing enjoyable, especially around open plazas and monuments.