When the UK turns cold and grey, Seville is one of the easiest escapes in Europe. Winter days in southern Spain are usually mild and often sunny, the city is quieter than in spring, and its main sights are close enough to explore on foot.
Three or four days is enough to see the highlights without rushing. Here is how to plan it, including what to sort out first if you need a Schengen visa.
Why go in winter?
Seville is famous for its fierce summer heat, so the cooler months are a pleasure for walking. You can sit outside at lunchtime on many winter days, although evenings get chilly and rain is possible, so pack a warm layer and a light waterproof.
You will also see orange trees heavy with fruit along the streets in winter. They are one of the city’s best-known sights, though the oranges are bitter and aren’t for picking.
A simple three-day plan
Day 1: The historic centre
Start with Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, and climb the Giralda tower. It has ramps instead of stairs for most of the way up, and the views across the rooftops are worth it.
Next door is the Real Alcázar, a royal palace with Mudéjar courtyards and large gardens. Book timed tickets ahead for both, then spend the afternoon wandering the narrow lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter.
Day 2: Plaza de España and the river
Walk through María Luisa Park to Plaza de España, a huge semi-circular square built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. Its tiled alcoves represent the provinces of Spain.
In the afternoon, follow the Guadalquivir river to the Torre del Oro, then cross the Triana bridge. Triana has long been known for ceramics and flamenco, and it’s a good place to spend the evening.
Day 3: Modern Seville or a day trip
See the city from the wooden walkways of Setas de Sevilla, the large modern structure at Plaza de la Encarnación. If you have an extra day, Córdoba is an easy trip by high-speed train and is home to the great Mezquita-Catedral.
Food worth finding
Seville is a tapas city, and moving between a few bars in an evening is part of the fun. Look out for:
- Espinacas con garbanzos: spinach and chickpeas, a local classic.
- Jamón ibérico: cured Iberian ham.
- Salmorejo: a thick, cold tomato cream, similar to gazpacho.
- Churros with hot chocolate: a very good winter breakfast.
Spanish meal times run late, with many kitchens busiest well after 9 pm. If you are visiting around Christmas or New Year, check opening times, as some places close or change their hours.
Christmas and Three Kings
Seville is lovely in December, with street lights and nativity displays. Spain also celebrates Three Kings on 5 and 6 January, and the parade on the evening of 5 January is a big event for families in many Spanish cities. Check the official Seville tourism website for this year’s dates and routes.
Getting there
Direct flights from the UK to Seville operate from several airports, though winter schedules can be more limited than in summer. Check routes early if you have fixed dates, and book refundable accommodation where you can.
Planning your Spain visa
If you live in the UK on a non-EU passport, you will usually need a Schengen visa for this trip. A few things are worth knowing:
- Apply to Spain if it’s your main destination. If you add Portugal or another country, apply to the country where you will spend the most nights.
- Apply early. You can apply up to 6 months before travel and no later than 15 calendar days before. Christmas and New Year appointments can be harder to find, so don’t leave it until December.
- Check your insurance. You need at least €30,000 of medical cover, valid across the Schengen area.
- Check your passport. It must be valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Schengen area.
Travellers also go through the EU’s Entry/Exit System at the border, which records your entry and exit.
Ready to plan your trip? See our Spain visa guide, or start your application and we’ll help with your forms and appointment.
