A day trip from the Algarve to Seville

How far is Seville?

Seville is roughly 200 to 240 km from the Algarve resorts, depending on where you start: closer from Tavira and the east, further from Lagos. The route follows the A22 to the Guadiana river, crosses the international bridge into Spain and continues on the A-49 motorway to the city.

Portugal and Spain are both in the Schengen area, so there is normally no border check. Carry your passport or ID card anyway.

Mind the clock

Spain is one hour ahead of Portugal. If you leave the Algarve at 8:00, it is already 9:00 in Seville, and you arrive around 11:00 local time. Opening hours and ticket times are in Spanish time, so plan with that in mind, and remember you gain the hour back on the way home.

What to see in one day

• The Real Alcázar, the royal palace and gardens: book a timed ticket online in advance, as it sells out.
• The Cathedral and the Giralda tower, next to the Alcázar.
• The Santa Cruz quarter, the old Jewish quarter of narrow lanes and patios, for lunch.
• Plaza de España in the María Luisa Park, best in the late afternoon light.
• If time allows: the Metropol Parasol viewpoint or a walk across the river to Triana.

When to go

Spring and autumn are ideal. In July and August Seville is one of the hottest cities in Europe, with afternoons often well above 40 °C: start early, visit the Alcázar and the Cathedral in the morning and keep the outdoor walking for the evening. Holy Week and the April Fair are spectacular but very busy, and hotels and tickets go fast.

Driving yourself or with a driver?

Driving is possible, but parking in the centre is limited and much of the old town is restricted to residents. With a private driver you are dropped at the Alcázar in the morning and collected at the end of the day wherever you are, and nobody has to drive five hours after a long day of walking.

Questions