Seville and Cordoba sit 140 kilometres apart and are connected by a high speed train that takes less time than crossing a large city. That makes a three day route between them straightforward, provided you respect the Andalusian clock: mornings are for sights, afternoons are for shade, evenings start late.
Why this route works
You get two of the most significant pieces of Islamic and Christian architecture in Europe without changing hotel more than once, and the train removes the need for a car entirely.
Day 1 - Seville: Alcazar and Santa Cruz
Book the Real Alcazar online for the first slot. Two hours inside is reasonable and the gardens are the part people rush. Afterwards, wander Santa Cruz, then take a long lunch. Late afternoon, climb the Giralda.
Day 2 - Seville: Triana and the river
Cross to Triana in the morning for the ceramics workshops and the market. Return along the river, then spend the afternoon at Plaza de Espana when the light is lower. Flamenco in the evening should be at a small venue, not a dinner show.
Day 3 - Cordoba by train
Take an early AVE. The Mezquita is the reason to come and the first hour after opening is quiet. Then the Jewish quarter, the Roman bridge and, if it is May, the patio courtyards. Return to Seville in the evening or continue to Madrid.
Practical notes
- Almost every major monument sells timed tickets that sell out days ahead in spring
- Lunch runs from 14:00 and dinner rarely before 21:00
- Semana Santa and Feria fill the city completely, plan around or into it deliberately
- Trains are cheaper booked two to three weeks ahead
When to go
March to May and October to November. Summer in Seville regularly exceeds 40 degrees and it is not a comfortable sightseeing city then. Winter is mild, quiet and often sunny.
Common mistakes
- Buying Alcazar tickets from resellers at inflated prices
- Trying to see Granada as a day trip as well, it is too far to be worthwhile
- Planning outdoor sightseeing between two and five in summer
What to bring
A hat, refillable water, and comfortable shoes for marble and cobble. A light jacket for evenings in spring and autumn.
