Welcome to Seville, one of Spain’s most captivating cities! Known for its stunning architecture, lively festivals, and rich history, Seville makes for an exciting day trip from Malaga. In this post, we’ll go over the logistics of getting to Seville, the top sights to see, where to eat, shop, and more to help you plan the perfect quick getaway. With high-speed trains connecting these two Andalusian cities in just over 2 hours, it’s easier than ever to experience the magic of Seville for a day. Keep reading for all the details you need to know to take advantage of this scenic and doable day trip!
Table of Contents
Introduction
You won’t believe how often Malaga kept popping up in our lives over the years, like a catchy tune that’s stuck in your head. It all began when Malkit’s friend from Vancouver first mentioned the name. Then, our dear friends from Phoenix, Beth and Carlos, decided to relocate to Malaga — Carlos’ charming birthplace. Soon after, another friend wound up in Malaga during the COVID storm, and as if by fate, Malkit’s nephew uprooted his life in England to make Malaga his new home.
So, we thought to ourselves, “Why not embrace the Malaga magic and spend some time there this summer?” When we shared our Spain itinerary with Beth and Carlos, their inner tour guides sprung to life, and they whisked us away on a thrilling day trip to Seville. With an early pickup from our Airbnb, we set off on our adventure, pausing halfway to refuel with breakfast as the Tesla X charged its batteries.
Oh, what a joy it was to be reunited with old friends, laughing and reminiscing the day away! Not to mention, we were so fortunate to have our very own personal tour guide duo revealing Seville’s best secrets. Trust me, it’s moments like these that make the digital nomad life so enchanting.
Getting from Malaga to Seville
As I mentioned earlier, we lucked out with such warm friends treating us to a cozy ride. Now, if renting a car sounds like carrying a little more responsibility than you’d like on your laid-back vacation, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. The AVE trains between the two cities take around 2.5 hours and run frequently throughout the day.
I’d recommend taking an early morning train from Malaga to give you a full day to explore Seville. The first train departs Malaga just after 7 am and will get you into Seville by 9:30 am. This allows you to catch the early opening times at some of Seville’s top attractions.
Later trains run every hour or so. If you want more time in Malaga before heading to Seville, there are trains departing at 10am, 11am, 12pm, and so on throughout the afternoon. Just keep in mind that the last return train to Malaga leaves Seville around 8:30pm.
Booking in advance online can get you the best deals on AVE train tickets between the two cities. One-way tickets start from around €25 per person. The AVE trains are comfortable, and fast enabling you to maximize your time in both Malaga and Seville.
Top sights in Seville
With Carlos’ trusty parking skills on display, we hopped out of the car and eagerly started our saunter towards the enchanting Plaza de España. Every step of the way, our laughter and conversation with dear friends filled the vibrant Sevillian air. Trust me, there’s something magical about capturing memories with photos against the backdrop of Spain’s rich architectural history.
Our Seville itinerary, hand-crafted with love, had a mighty spotlight on two spellbinding destinations: the illustrious Plaza de España and the awe-inspiring Alcázar of Seville. Now let me be clear, adventurers — Seville is so much more than just these iconic landmarks, but these two are glorious must-sees.
Seville is home to some of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Here are some of the top sights you don’t want to miss on a day trip from Malaga:
La Giralda bell tower
One of the most recognizable sights in Seville is the towering La Giralda bell tower. Attached to Seville’s immense Cathedral, this Moorish-style minaret stands 104 meters tall and was originally built in the 12th century. Climb up the steep ramps for incredible views over the city.
Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and an awe-inspiring display of medieval architecture. Don’t miss the opulent interior, Christopher Columbus’ tomb, and the treasury containing works by Goya and Murillo.
Alcázar of Seville
This ornate Moorish palace complex dates back to the 11th century and contains exquisite gardens, patios, fountains, and intricately tiled halls. It’s one of the most beautiful attractions in Seville.
Plaza de España
Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, this huge plaza features a semi-circular brick building adorned with tiled alcoves representing each province in Spain. The grand central fountain and moat make for an impressive sight.
With these unmissable historic and cultural landmarks, Seville offers a glimpse into Spain’s diverse past and architecture. Don’t rush through seeing these sights – take time to appreciate each one on a day trip from Malaga.
Food and Drinks in Seville
Salute Beth and Carlos who led us to an unforgettable late lunch/early dinner in Spain. In the grand tale of our travel escapades, this meal has earned its chapter. We were guided to a spot where mouthwatering goodness was practically guaranteed The dishes were unique and divine, seamlessly paired with the kind of Spanish wine that warms your heart and dances in perfect harmony with the culinary delights before you.
Of course, Seville is a food lover’s paradise, especially if you enjoy tapas. Going from bar to bar and sampling small plates and drinks is a beloved local tradition. Here are some highlights of Sevillan cuisine and where to find the city’s best tapas. Here I the the best Tapas Bars that you can visit:
Tapas Bars
- Bodega Santa Cruz – Famous for its fried anchovies, razor clams, and shrimp tacos. Grab a spot at the bar or one of the standing tables.
- Eslava – A local favorite tapas bar is known for innovative fusion tapas like Thai chicken tacos. Arrive early to avoid long waits.
- La Brunilda – A trendy tapas bar with creative bites like mini hamburgers with goat cheese and carrot cake with salmorejo.
Local Dishes and Drinks to Try
- Serrano Ham – This dry-cured ham is a Spanish delicacy, often served sliced thin on top of bread.
- Salmorejo – A thick, cold tomato soup topped with hard-boiled egg and Serrano ham slivers.
- Gazpacho – The famous cold, raw vegetable soup garnished with chopped veggies.
- Tortilla Española – A hearty omelet filled with sliced potatoes and onions.
- Seafood – Seville has fresh seafood including fried fish, grilled shrimp, and baked scallops.
- Flamenquín – A pork loin fillet rolled with Serrano ham and cheese, then breaded and fried.
- Fino Sherry – The iconic Jerez wine made in southern Spain. Try a chilled glass with tapas.
Recommended Restaurants
- Abacería La Candela – Creative modern tapas in a rustic setting near the Cathedral.
- Las Teresas – Historic restaurant since 1935, known for traditional tapas and seafood paella.
- Vineria San Telmo – This lovely restaurant in a restored mansion with gourmet tapas and an extensive wine list.
Shopping in Seville
Seville is a shopper’s paradise, with charming markets, traditional shops, and plenty of souvenirs to bring home.
Markets to Visit
The sprawling Mercado de Triana offers everything from fresh fish and produce to souvenirs. Wander the stalls and sample local delicacies like chickpea stew or sherry. Pick up a hand-painted fan or Flamenco-style dress as a memento.
Across the river, Mercado Feria has a festival atmosphere with colorful ceramics, leather goods, and decorative items. Chat with vendors while browsing handicrafts and traditional food stalls.
For antique lovers, the street market on Calle Sierpes has coins, books, jewelry, and artwork. Tucked into the winding alleys, unique boutiques sell artisan wares and custom goods.
Souvenirs and What to Buy
Classic souvenirs include decorated fans, polka-dot ceramic bowls, Spanish guitars, lace-edged shawls, and flamenco shoes. Pick up authentic olive oil, sherry, and almond delicacies to share when you get home. Leather bags, wallets, and embroidered textiles make great gifts.
Painted ceramic tiles are a popular decorative item. Look for azulejos tiles in vivid colors and Andalusian motifs. Intricate metalwork in silver and bronze chandeliers, platters, and candlesticks reflects Seville’s Moorish influence.
Highlight Unique Shops
For one-of-a-kind fashion, Magpie sells edgy, custom-designed women’s clothing with bold prints. Pick up hand-crafted jewelry at Territorio Creativo.
At Cerámica Santa Ana, browse colorfully painted ceramics, a local tradition since the 16th century. Or check outTaller Andaluz de Cerámica for modern, Moorish-style patterns. Guitars Lozano creates classic Spanish guitars using traditional methods.
With its charming markets, eclectic shops, and distinctive souvenirs, Seville offers incredible shopping opportunities to fill your suitcase.
Day Trip from Seville
Seville makes an excellent base to take a half-day trip to nearby towns and attractions. One highly recommended option is the charming village of Carmona, located just 30km east of Seville.
Carmona’s history stretches back over 5,000 years. The Romans, Moors, and Christians have all left their mark on this town over the centuries. Walking through Carmona’s maze of cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time.
The two main sights in Carmona are the Roman Necropolis and the Alcázar de la Puerta de Sevilla fortress. The Roman Necropolis is an extremely well-preserved Roman burial ground dating from the 2nd century BC. Walk among the family tombs adorned with carvings and inscriptions.
The Alcázar is a massive Moorish fortress on the site of a Roman fort. Climb the ramparts for sweeping views over the Andalusian plains. Inside the fortress is the Patio de Armas courtyard and the 14th-century Palace of King Pedro I.
After exploring Carmona’s historical monuments, enjoy tapas and a glass of sherry at one of the local taverns. Or pick up some traditional pastries and cakes to snack on.
With its rich history, charming streets, and proximity to Seville, Carmona makes an excellent choice for a short-day trip. Half a day is sufficient to see the main sights and experience the ambiance of this traditional Andalusian town.
Getting back to Malaga
To return to Malaga after your day trip, you’ll likely want to take an evening train. Here are some tips:
- Check the train schedule in advance and book your return ticket early. Trains typically run every hour in the evening, with the last train departing Seville around 10-11 pm. Opt for an earlier train if you’d prefer not to return too late at night.
- Give yourself plenty of time to get to the Seville Santa Justa train station. It’s centrally located but still allows 30-60 minutes to arrive, find your platform, etc. Rushing to catch your train will add unnecessary stress at the end of a long day.
- A taxi is the easiest transportation option to the train station in the evening. Or you can take the C1 metro line which stops right at the station. Buses also run but may involve transfers and be more complicated after dark.
- Validate your return train ticket at the machines in the station before boarding. You don’t need to print tickets in advance, the e-ticket on your phone is sufficient.
- Be sure to have your passport or ID card handy, as it may be checked when boarding the train back to Malaga.
- Sit back and relax on your ride back to Malaga. You’ll arrive tired after a full day so it’s perfectly fine to nap or just watch the scenery go by.
Booking an evening train ahead of time and allowing ample time to get to the Seville train station in the evening will make for an easy, stress-free return to Malaga after your day trip.
Where to Stay in Seville
Seville has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and styles. Here are some of the top neighborhoods and hotels to consider:
Santa Cruz
This charming historic neighborhood is home to Seville’s top sights and has a romantic old-world feel.
- Hotel Alfonso XIII – Luxury 5-star hotel in a landmark building near the cathedral. Elegant rooms, great service, and a pool. Starts around $350 per night.
- Hotel Boutique Doña Lola – Charming boutique hotel in a restored 19th-century mansion. Rooftop terrace, garden, and pool. Rates from $120 per night.
Arenal
Lively neighborhood along the Guadalquivir River, near the bullring and great restaurants.
- EME Catedral Hotel – Sleek contemporary hotel with rooftop bar. Soundproofed rooms, gym, spa. From around $220 per night.
Triana
Historic gypsy quarter with great local flavor across the river.
- Hostal Lebrel – Family-run guesthouse with simple, comfortable rooms. Rooftop terrace and views. Starts at $55 per night.
Macarena
The up-and-coming neighborhood north of the center, with funky cafes and shops.
- Hotel San Gil – Affordable 3-star hotel in a great location. Rooftop pool, free breakfast. Rates from $80 per night.
Conclusion
A day trip from Malaga to Seville is an excellent way to experience the highlights of the historic city of Seville while still maintaining your base in the coastal town of Malaga. On this quick 1 day Seville itinerary, you’ll have the chance to see the magnificent Seville Cathedral, stroll through the quaint alleys of Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the grand Plaza de España, Real Alcacazar museum, indulge in tapas and sangria, soak in the sights of the Guadalquivir River, and enjoy the vibrant culture that makes Seville a favorite destination.
To summarize some of the key highlights, you’ll want to visit the following places: Cathedral and its Giralda Bell Tower, explore the Jewish Quarter and Royal Alcazars, wander through the Maria Luisa Park, shop and dine in the cobblestoned streets, take in a flamenco show, and snap that quintessential photo of the Plaza de España. With a fast train connecting the two cities, you can pack a lot into a day while still making it back to Malaga by the evening.
For the best day trips experience, purchase your train tickets in advance, arrive early in Seville to maximize sightseeing time, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and come hungry and thirsty to fully savor the tapas and sangria scene. With an efficient itinerary planned out, you’ll be amazed by how much you can explore in just one day. A quick trip to Seville when based in Malaga is easy, worthwhile, and gives a tantalizing taste of the city to inspire a future, longer visit.
FAQs about a trip from Malaga to Seville:
- How far is it from Malaga to Seville?
- The distance between Malaga and Seville is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) by road.
- What are the transportation options from Malaga to Seville?
- You can travel by train, bus, or car. The high-speed AVE train is a popular choice for its speed and comfort.
- How long does it take to travel from Malaga to Seville by train?
- The AVE train takes around 2.5 to 3 hours for this journey.
- Are there direct flights from Malaga to Seville?
- There are no direct flights for this short domestic route, as taking a train or bus is more convenient.
- What are some must-visit places in Seville for a day trip from Malaga?
- The Seville Cathedral, Real Alcázar, and Plaza de España are popular attractions.
- Can I take a day trip from Malaga to Seville?
- Yes, it’s possible to do a day trip, but to fully experience Seville, consider staying overnight.
- Is it necessary to book train or bus tickets in advance?
- It’s advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred travel times.
- What’s the best time to visit Seville from Malaga?
- The best time is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
- Are there discounts for students or seniors on transportation options?
- Some train and bus companies offer discounts for students, seniors, and children. Check with the specific provider for details.
- What’s the average cost of a one-way ticket from Malaga to Seville?
- Ticket prices can vary, but on average, a one-way AVE train ticket may cost around €30-50.
Do not forget to check our comprehensive travel guide Long Weekend in Malaga: All You Need To Know