Seville Day Trip from the Algarve

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is only a couple of hours from the eastern Algarve, which makes it one of the most popular day trips from Portugal. Here’s how to visit Seville from the Algarve, by tour or by car, and what to see in one day.

Quick answer: Seville is about 2 to 2.5 hours by road from Faro and Tavira, and further from Albufeira and Lagos. An organised day trip is easiest, with pick-ups across the Algarve. Spain is one hour ahead of Portugal. In one day, see the Cathedral and Giralda, the Real Alcázar (book ahead), the Santa Cruz quarter and Plaza de España. See Seville day trips from the Algarve.

Tour or drive?

Organised tour

The easiest option. Coaches and minibuses collect from the main resorts, include a guided walk, and give you free time. It’s a long day (often 12 hours or more from the western Algarve), but you don’t have to drive or park.

Driving yourself

Take the A22 east and cross the Guadiana bridge into Spain, then follow the motorway to Seville. Check that your rental car is insured for Spain (there’s often a fee). Parking in the centre is expensive, so use a car park on the edge of the old town. See car rental.

By bus

Direct buses run from Faro and other Algarve towns to Seville. They’re cheap, but make for a long day.

Seville in one day

1. The Cathedral and the Giralda: one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Climb the ramps of the bell tower for the view.
2. The Real Alcázar: a stunning royal palace with Moorish-style courtyards and gardens. Book timed tickets in advance, as it sells out.
3. Barrio Santa Cruz: the old Jewish quarter of lanes, orange trees and tiny squares.
4. Plaza de España: a huge semicircular plaza with tiled alcoves for every Spanish province.
5. Tapas: stop for tapas and a cold drink.

Tips

• Time zone: Spain is an hour ahead, so you lose an hour going and gain it back.
• Heat: Seville is one of Europe’s hottest cities in summer. Spring and autumn are much better.
• ID: carry your passport or ID card when crossing the border.
• Mondays: check opening days for the sights you want to see.

Other day trips

See the best day trips from the Algarve and the best tours in the Algarve.

More: Tavira and the eastern Algarve and Portugal vs Spain.

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