Malaga is a beautiful coastal city in southern Spain that offers its visitors a plethora of things to do. Most of the top Malaga attractions can easily be visited within a few days. This means visitors to this gorgeous city on the Costa del Sol can take day trips to the surrounding Andalusian cities and towns. The options for day trips from Malaga are endless. One of the best options is to take a day trip from Malaga to Seville.
Related: Day Trip from Malaga to Granada
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Getting from Malaga to Seville
Taking the Bus from Malaga to Seville
There are direct buses that travel from Malaga to Seville. All of the buses are operated by the company ALSA. The buses leave from Estación de Autobuses de Málaga bus station, located on Paseo de los Tilos and drop you off at Seville Plaza De Armas.
The total duration for a bus from Malaga to Seville is two hours and forty five minutes. There are some longer routes as well, all operated by ALSA.
Prices for a bus ticket from Malaga to Seville vary depending on how far in advance you purchase your ticket. Prices range from €14-€19, so if you want to save a few bucks, purchase your ticket in advance.
There are ten daily buses from Malaga to Seville. The earliest departs at 07:00 and the latest departs at 19:30.
Taking the Train from Malaga to Seville
Taking the train from Malaga to Seville is a slightly faster, albeit more expensive, alternative to taking the bus. Head to the Malaga Maria Zambrano station and you can go to any of the three train stations in Seville, including the main Santa Justa station.
The shortest train ride by Renfe is an hour and fifty five minutes. There are longer train rides for less money available as well. The hour and fifty five minute train starts at €37,50 (one-way).
There are ten daily trains from Malaga to Seville. The earliest departs at 06:30 and the latest departs at 20:15.
Driving from Malaga to Seville
The drive from Malaga to Seville is around 125 miles (206 kilometers). It takes about two hours and fifteen minutes via the A45 and A92 highways.
If you’re confident enough in your driving skills to rent a car and drive in Spain, this is your best option. You’re more in control of your time and you can pull over for any photo opps you may see.
You will, however, need a designated driver if you plan on enjoying some sangria or cervezas on your day trip from Malaga to Seville.
Is a Day Trip from Malaga to Seville Worth It?
Seville is among the most coveted tourist destinations in all of Spain. It’s worthy of much more than a day, as there are plenty of things to do in Seville. But if a day is all you have to spare, a day trip from Malaga to Seville is entirely worth it!
With the aroma of orange blossoms wafting through the courtyards, unique Mudéjar architecture, flamenco performances around every corner, and Seville’s overall ambiance, it’s no wonder that tourists flock here in droves. Do yourself a favor and take a day trip to Seville, one of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia (and all of Spain).
How to Spend a Day in Seville
Réal Alcazar
The Réal Alcazar is by far the best thing to do on a day trip from Malaga to Seville. If this is the only place you are able to visit, it’s still worth the trip! This UNESCO World Heritage Site was originally built on the site of a Muslim stronghold for King Peter of Castille. The upper level is still used as a royal residence to this day.
Visiting the Réal Alcazar takes you through a network of ornate tiled rooms, towers, impeccably manicured gardens, and more. The Salon de Embajadores and the Princess Bath are must-sees.
Be sure to reserve tickets in advance if you want to save some time. There are also skip-the-line tours available to purchase.
Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only is it the largest cathedral in Spain, but it is also the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.
The magnificent cathedral is among the most visited sites in Seville for a number of reasons. Visitors bask in the splendor of the sanctuary, the intricate Spanish paintings, and the collection of priceless religious artifacts.
In addition to its cultural importance and epic beauty, the cathedral houses the remains of Christopher and Diego Columbus. Initially, Columbus was buried in the Dominican Republic, as it was his wish to be buried in the New World. After the Spanish withdrew from the Caribbean in the late 18th century, the remains of Columbus traveled back to his native land.
Grab your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Plaza de España
One of the most beautiful plazas I’ve ever visited in Spain (in the world, for that matter), Plaza de España is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seville. It’s a must-visit on your day trip from Malaga to Seville.
Constructed in the early 20th century, taking a walk through the plaza almost transports you to another time. The Venetian-style bridges represent the ancient kingdoms of Spain, of which there are four in total. The vibrant, tiled alcoves represent the 48 regions of Spain. It is truly a work of art that displays the country’s heritage and national pride.
Nowadays, there are many governmental and official facilities in the plaza. It has been a popular filming location for movies and television shows that feature an otherworldly set – Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia, and my personal favorite, Game of Thrones (remember the Water Gardens of Dorne?).
Catch a Flamenco Show
Although Flamenco performances are more of a nighttime activity, and this post is about a day trip from Malaga to Seville, you can still catch a good show. Plus, there’s always the option of spending the night in Spain’s most beloved southern city.
The best place in Seville to catch a Flamenco performance is in the neighborhood of Triana. There are, of course, a number of tourist-oriented tablaos, but if you want to see an authentic performance you should head to Lola’s in Triana. It’s a strictly no-frills venue, but if authenticity is what you are seeking, you will find it at Lola’s.
You can also book a tour or a night out which includes a flamenco performance as part of the package.
Check Out the Metropol Parasol
The Metropol Parasol is one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see when on a day trip from Malaga to Seville. Although it received mixed reactions by Sevillanos, it’s a huge hit with visiting tourists.
Standing at 25 meters high and spanning the length of 150 meters, the criss-cross of wooden panels has given it the nickname ‘las setas’ (the mushrooms).
You can actually climb the structure for €3 (which includes a free drink). You follow a path which follows the curves of the structure, providing plenty of opportunities for photo opps and gorgeous vistas.
Maria Luisa Park
This is the most expansive green area in Seville, created to be the main focal point at the Exposición Iberoamericana in 1929. The palm-lined avenues are surrounded by shaded walkways, interesting plant species, colored mosaics, and trickling fountains.
The park is a stunning environment in which to stroll around for an afternoon or evening, alone or with friends.
There are two pavilions in the park that now serve as museums of archaeology and folklore.
Rent a bike if you’re feeling particularly active!
Triana
Triana is an authentic neighborhood that is just across the Guadalquivir river. Despite the increase in gentrification over recent years, the neighborhood still maintains its humble charm.
It’s the best neighborhood in Seville in which to see an authentic flamenco show. It’s also well-known for its authentic ceramic arts as well as its excellent food market, Mercado de Triana. Get your fix of cured meats, artisanal cheese, fresh fish, juicy produce, and more.
Right beneath the market is the Castillo de San Jorge, a fortress that houses a small museum. While entry is free, it can get a little crowded on weekends, so plan to go early.
Eat All of the Tapas
OK, there’s no way we can write about a day trip from Malaga to Seville and not talk about tapas! There are literally hundreds of tapas bars scattered throughout the city, so you can guarantee to have a few great meals while you’re visiting.
We have our personal favorites, one of which is known to locals and tourists alike as the oldest tapas bar in Seville, El Rinconcillo. Come here for the authentic old-world Andalusian vibes and spinach with chickpeas. Come early as it’s first-come, first-served.
La Brunilda on Calle Galera is another great place to grab a bite to eat in Seville. The ham croquettes are to-die-for.
For creative takes on authentic dishes, check out the Eslava. Try their signature plate, a slow-cooked egg set atop a mushroom cake with a caramelized wine reduction.
Taking a tapas tour of Seville is another way to ensure you’re tasting a wide variety of different restaurants, usually hand-picked by knowledgeable locals.
Explore Barrio Santa Cruz
Seville’s Jewish Quarter is a photographer’s dream, with its flowered balconies and whitewashed buildings, hidden courtyards painted in a mosaic of colorful tiles. Getting lost in Barrio Santa Cruz is the perfect way to spend some time on your day trip from Malaga to Seville.
The winding maze of narrow streets provides some (slight) protection from the hot Seville sun during the warmer months.
Head to Las Columnas while you’re there to try one of their famous shrimp omelets.
Palacio de las Dueñas
Las Dueñas is a gorgeous palace located adjacent to the Old Town of Seville. It’s consistently touted as one of the city’s most beautiful attractions, yet it is highly under visited by tourists, meaning it’s much less crowded. Technically called the Palace of the Dukes of Alba, the palace dates back to the 16th century.
It’s highly worth a visit if you want to up your IG game. Visiting in spring gives you some great photo opps with the flowers all in bloom.
Casa de Pilatos
Casa de Pilatos is another underrated tourist attraction in the city. However, it’s definitely worth a stop if you have time on your day trip from Malaga to Seville.
Its primary purpose is residence of the Duke of Medinaceli, but visitors can come to admire the impeccably manicured grounds and marvel at the stunning palace walls. The main attraction, however, is the charming marble courtyard.
You can purchase tickets to tour either the lower floor or both floors which include a guided tour. EU passport holders have a perk, and they can visit for free on select hours on Wednesday afternoons.
