Punta Umbría, Huelva
If you love the sea, Punta Umbría is calling your name. This coastal town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Tinto and Odiel rivers on the other. On the beach side, you’ll find a long, sandy stretch with impressive tides—perfect for a refreshing walk along the breakwater to kick off your visit. On the river side, the promenade offers views of fishing boats coming and going, a nod to the town’s deep connection to the sea.
And speaking of the sea, the local food is a must-try. Don’t leave without sampling their famous fish and seafood dishes, like coquinas (wedge clams), white shrimp, fried cuttlefish, or grilled sardines.
For nature lovers, head to Avenida del Océano, where a bike path takes you through a beautiful pine forest and juniper groves, all the way to wild dunes and a quiet beach.
️ Getting there: Punta Umbría is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Seville by car, which is the best option. Public buses run from Seville’s Plaza de Armas station to Huelva frequently, and from there, local buses take you to Punta Umbría.
Riotinto, Huelva aka Mars
For something completely out of this world, head to Riotinto, a town often compared to Mars. Its open-pit mines have been active for centuries and are some of the largest in Europe. The striking red landscape of the Tinto River, caused by its mineral-rich waters, is like nothing else on Earth. NASA even used Riotinto to study conditions that might exist on Mars!
You can visit the Mining Museum for a deep dive into the area’s history, take a scenic ride on the mining train, or explore the English neighborhood, built by British workers in the 19th century. Riotinto is as fascinating as it is unique.
Getting there: Public transport options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended. The drive takes about an hour from Seville.
Carmona, Sevilla
Just 30 minutes from Seville, Carmona is a picturesque town steeped in history. Romans, Moors, and Christians have all left their mark here, creating a charming mix of architecture and culture.
Wander through its streets to discover gems like the Plaza de San Fernando, the food market from the 19th century, and the many stately homes and palaces that hint at Carmona’s wealthy past. Don’t miss its star attractions: the Alcázar del Rey Don Pedro, the Alcázar de la Puerta de Sevilla, and the Puerta de Córdoba.
Finish your visit with some tapas—Carmona is famous for its delicious local cuisine, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back food tour.
Getting there: Buses from Seville’s San Bernardo station are frequent, cheap, and convenient, making public transport an easy option for this trip.
Aracena, Huelva
Located in the lush Sierra de Aracena, this charming white village is surrounded by mountains and oak forests. Aracena is a wonderful place to explore on foot. Stroll through its narrow streets to find gems like the Plaza Alta, the Church of the Asunción, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Be sure to visit the town’s two highlights: the Ham Museum, which celebrates the famous Iberian ham produced in the region, and the Grotto of Wonders, a stunning cave with underground lakes and breathtaking rock formations.
Getting there: Buses run from Seville’s Plaza de Armas station, but they’re not frequent. Driving is the best way to get there and explore other nearby villages.
Dehesa de Abajo, Sevilla
The largest rice fields in Europe are found in the Guadalquivir marshes, bringing about an interesting ecosystem with landscapes of water, birds and rice fields that change depending on the state of the harvest. If you are a bird lover, you will definitely love this day trip.
Right in the middle of this rice field territory lies La Dehesa de Abajo, a nature reserve. In its landscape, you’ll discover lagoons such as La Rianzuela, which is surrounded by scrub, pine trees and wild olive trees. The reserve has a bird-watching area, from which to observe species such as flamingos and red or blue ducks, depending on the time of the year. There are also well-marked paths along which you can take a more than pleasant walk.
In the area there is a restaurant and also a picnic area, although our recommendation is to try the local cuisine. And of course, the star dish is… rice cooked with different ingredients. The rice with duck or crayfish is well worth a taste.
Being an area of pure nature, it can only be reached by car.
Cádiz: The Oldest City in Europe
If you’re looking for a mix of history, stunning beaches, and laid-back vibes, Cádiz is the perfect day trip. Known as the oldest city in Europe, this coastal gem offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern charm.
Start your visit by strolling through the Old Town, a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful buildings and lively plazas. Don’t miss the Cadiz Cathedral, with its striking golden dome, or the Tavira Tower, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and sea.
Cádiz is also famous for its beaches. La Caleta Beach, right in the heart of the city, is the perfect spot to relax or enjoy a walk along the shoreline. And of course, no visit to Cádiz is complete without indulging in some fresh seafood. Try the local specialty, tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters), at one of the many seaside bars or restaurants. You can follow along our tour to the best places to eat in Cadiz
Cádiz’s relaxed atmosphere, stunning coastal views, and rich history make it a fantastic escape from the hustle of the city.
Getting there: Cádiz is about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Seville by train, with frequent departures from Santa Justa station. Driving is another great option, with the journey taking roughly the same amount of time. Either way, it’s an easy and rewarding trip!
Bonus: Ronda, Málaga
You have probably heard about Ronda already. If you haven’t this is really a must. The city that dazzled characters such as Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway because of its “El Tajo”, a breathtaking structure that makes the viewer dizzy, the Bullring of the Real Maestranza, its food, wines, people….
There is so much to see in Ronda. If you have just one day, check out are article One Day in Ronda. Beyond the Puente Nuevo Bridge
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