Things To Do
in Olivares

Olivares is a small Andalusian town just outside Seville known for its olive groves and whitewashed streets. The town pairs traditional architecture with a relaxed, village atmosphere, making it easy to explore on foot. It serves as a gateway to both Seville’s cultural riches and the rural Andalusian countryside.

Visitors can enjoy local olives, seasonal produce, and warm hospitality in a tranquil setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Olivares, taking in the quaint architecture and the fascinating history that permeates the town. Make a stop at the local café for a traditional Spanish breakfast of tostada con tomate and freshly brewed coffee. Don't forget your camera, as the picturesque views of the old buildings and plazas provide perfect photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the stunning Church of Santa María de las Flores, an architectural gem that showcases the town's rich heritage. Spend some time at the local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and unique souvenirs that reflect the culture of Olivares. As the afternoon winds down, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the nearby parks, soaking in the natural beauty of the region.

evening
:

As night falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Andalusian dishes such as flamenquín or gazpacho. Join the locals at a nearby tapas bar to experience the vibrant social life of Olivares, sampling various small plates while enjoying good conversation. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, appreciating the tranquil atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Flamenco
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local museum to learn about the history and art of Olivares, gaining insights into its cultural significance. After exploring the exhibits, take a guided walking tour to get a deeper understanding of the town's landmarks and hidden gems. Make sure to engage with the knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating stories about the area's past.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby traditional tavern, where you can sample authentic Spanish cuisine. After consuming a hearty meal, set off for a scenic bike ride around the countryside, filled with olive groves and beautiful landscapes that exemplify Andalusia's charm. For those interested, consider a wine tasting experience to explore the regional wines and their unique flavors.

evening
:

In the evening, immerse yourself in the spirited culture of Flamenco by attending a performance at a local venue. Revel in the passionate music and dance that tells stories of love and life in Andalucía. After the show, join fellow attendees for a late-night meal at a popular tapas bar, sharing laughs and memorable experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$2-3
🧊Water bottle (1L)$1-2
🍷Local wine or beer$4-9
🚆Public transport ticket (single ride)$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic Andalusian town experience
  • Easy day trips to Seville and nearby olive groves
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Fewer high-end dining options compared to larger cities
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Olivares

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Mayor and Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

Cobbled square and a whitewashed church, ideal for golden hour photography and capturing local life.

Old Town Alleys

Narrow lanes, arches, flower pots, and traditional facades that showcase Andalusian charm.

Olive Grove Countryside

Rolling fields of olive trees with seasonal harvest activity and quiet rural scenery.

River and Dikes near Guadalquivir

Waterways and embankments offering reflective sunrise and sunset scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Olivares

Olivares shares in the wider Andalusian culinary tradition, with an emphasis on olive oil, seasonal vegetables, and simple grilled dishes. Expect fresh flavors, shared plates, and wine or sherry to accompany meals.

Olivares Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gazpacho Andaluz

A refreshing cold tomato soup blended with cucumber, peppers, and olive oil; perfect on hot days.

Must-Try!

Salmorejo

Creamier tomato and bread purée typically served with jamón or hard-boiled egg; a staple in the region.

Pescaito Frito

Lightly battered fried fish, common in coastal-influenced Andalusian towns; best enjoyed with lemon.

Pisto Andaluz

A vegetable-based ratatouille-style dish with zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes, often served with a fried egg or bread.

Tortilla Española

A classic potato and onion omelette, served as a tapa or main at many bars.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Olivares

A local market offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and regional specialties; a good place to sample daily life.

Olivares street food corners

Casual spots around the plaza offering quick bites like fried fish, baked goods, and olive oil-based snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Olivares has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside. Summer heat peaks in July and August, while winter temperatures are rarely extreme.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with 'Hola' or 'Buenos días'; use 'por favor' and 'gracias'; maintain courtesy in service interactions.

Siesta and dining times

Respect locals' routines around midday and late dinners; plan visits to avoid peak heat and respect sundown mealtimes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Olivares is generally safe for visitors. Take standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas and keep valuables secure. Use licensed taxis and be aware of late-night street activity or events that may cause traffic changes.

Tipping in Olivares

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Gratuity is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; cards (Visa/Mastercard) and contactless payments are common in most shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming orange and almond trees, and comfortable conditions for outdoor exploring and photography.

Summer

Hot, dry days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, and seek shade near the river or markets.

Autumn

Harvest season with pleasant weather and olive-picking activity in the countryside.

Winter

Mild and occasionally rainy; layers and a light rain jacket are handy for outdoor strolls.

Nightlife Guide

Olivares at Night

In Olivares, nightlife centers around tapas bars, small cafés, and occasional local performances. It is relaxed and sociable rather than club-focused, with most venues closing around midnight. For a livelier scene, a short trip to Seville offers a wide array of bars, live music, and nightlife venues.

Hiking in Olivares

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra Norte de Sevilla trails

Hiking trails in the northern hills of Seville province with scenic viewpoints.

Olive grove scenic walks

Gentle trails among olive trees, suitable for all levels.

Airports

How to reach Olivares by plane.

Seville Airport (SVQ)

Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Olivares; excellent rail and road connections to Seville and surrounding towns.

Faro Airport (FAO)

In the nearby Algarve region of Portugal; about 2-2.5 hours by road; serves international routes.

Jerez Airport (XRY)

About 1.5-2 hours by car; smaller but functional for regional flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Olivares is a compact town with a walkable historic center; most amenities are within a short stroll. Streets can be steep and cobbled in places, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Outside the center, car travel or bike rental is often necessary to reach olive groves or farms.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families with multi-generational residents; traditional values and community events.

Retirees

Relatively large elderly population due to the quiet pace of life and accessible services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across Andalusia; local leagues and community games.

Padel

A popular racquet sport, common in clubs and leisure centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Olivares is light to moderate; for exploration of the surrounding countryside, driving a car is convenient. Public transport includes regional buses and rail connections via Seville; plan ahead for weekend schedules.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Olivares.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Olivares you can navigate vegetarian options by choosing plates centered on vegetables, legumes, and olive oil; look for gazpacho, salmorejo, pisto, and tortilla, and ask for olive-oil-based sauces. If needed, request dishes without animal broths and cheese or seek dairy-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Spain provides universal healthcare; Olivares has a local Centro de Salud (health center) for primary care. For emergencies or specialized services, Seville's hospitals are within reach by road or rail; bring your European Health Insurance Card.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide