Driving Algarve: A Day Trip to Seville from Faro

The Portuguese southern region of the Algarve is a popular tourist destination for beach and sun lovers all over the world. It boasts perpetual sunshine with stretches of golden sand beaches to partner with the warm waters of the Mediterranean. Faro is the capital of the Algarve region and serves as a major transport and cultural hub for the southern coast with excellent travel connections and a city rich with history.

Memorable Stops While Driving the Algarve

There are numerous resort towns in the Algarve that are close to Faro offering visitors stunning views of the sea and unlimited access to gorgeous beaches, such as Albufeira and Portimao. Fortunately,  lounging on sunbeds and swimming in the sea aren’t the only things to be enjoyed while in the south of Portugal, Faro is close to interesting places that can be seen on a single day trip out. There are various tours available, however, granting you the most freedom in exploring different places is by renting a car and driving your way around.

Just over 2 hour east of Faro through the motorway, is a fascinating city and also in a different country. The bustling metropolis of Seville on the edge of the Spanish and Portuguese border is a city full of wonders at every turn. A previous bastion of the Moorish invasion of the Iberian peninsula, visitors are treated to views of wonderful architecture and rich traditions. The birthplace of the Flamenco, Seville is the capital of Spain’s Andalusian region which receives millions of visitors each year for good reasons.

Walk through colorful streets lined with orange trees as you smell the citrusy aroma while gazing through beautiful churches. A rustic and grand city, it has an eclectic mix of the remnants of its Moorish invaders and more traditional Spanish cultures, both clashing to create a unique atmosphere.

The Alcazar de Sevilla: A Must-Visit

Visit the gorgeous Alcazar de Sevilla for a close look at the intricate designs of Moorish architecture perfectly paired with a lush garden in the center of the grounds. The elegant Plaza de Espana showcases the beauty of Spain’s unique regions with beautiful views of the grounds. Paddle through its ornate waterworks or simply enjoy gently strolling through the alleys of the palace. The Gothic Seville Cathedral towers above the city’s epicenter demanding to be noticed. Take a peek inside the church listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and take the rooftop tour for breathtaking views of the city from above.

Savor the local produce with tasty tapas while drinking the local Rioja wine as you take a break from the scorching heat of southern Spain. Take a part of Seville home with you as you go shopping through maze-like narrow streets offering famous brand names stores or local souvenir shops. From Cartuja Ceramics to a designer handbag, you can shop till you drop in Seville.

For a cultural adventure away from the comfort of the seaside, head over to Seville and experience quintessential Spain deep in the heart of Andalusia.