tourist information jerez

Jerez de la Frontera

Stand down, all other claimants. Jerez, as most savvy Hispanophiles know, is Andalucía. It just doesn’t broadcast it in the way that Seville and Granada do. Jerez is the capital of Andalucian horse culture, stop one on the famed Sherry Triangle and – cue protestations from Cádiz and Seville – the cradle of Spanish flamenco. The bulería (flamenco songs), Jerez’ jokey, tongue-in-cheek antidote to Seville’s tragic soleá, was first concocted in the legendary Roma barrios of Santiago and San Miguel. But Jerez is also a vibrant modern Andalucian city, where fashion brands live in old palaces and stylishly outfitted businesspeople sit down to distinctly contemporary cuisine between glasses of fino at bubbly tabancos (simple taverns serving sherry).

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Jerez de la Frontera. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bodegas Tradición

An intriguing, evocative bodega, not only for its extra-aged sherries (at least 20, mostly 30 years old) but also because it houses the Colección Joaquín…

Catedral de San Salvador

Echoes of Seville colour Jerez' dramatic cathedral, a surprisingly harmonious mix of baroque, neoclassical and Gothic styles. Standout features are its…

Jerez' muscular yet elegant 11th- or 12th-century fortress is one of Andalucía's best-preserved Almohad-era relics. It's notable for its octagonal tower,…

Centro Andaluz de Flamenco

Both architecturally intriguing – note the entrance's original 15th-century Mudéjar artesonado (ceiling of interlaced beams with decorative inserts) and…

Bodegas González–Byass

Home to the famous Tío Pepe brand, 1835-founded González–Byass is one of Jerez' biggest sherry houses, just west of the Alcázar. There are several daily…

Iglesia de San Miguel

Built between the 15th and 18th centuries, this richly adorned church blends Gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture, and was modelled on Seville…

Museo Arqueológico

In the Santiago quarter, Jerez' modern archaeology museum houses fascinating local relics dating from Paleolithic to 20th-century times. Grab a detailed…

Bodegas Sandeman

Three or four daily tours (no bookings needed) each in English, Spanish and German, and one in French, all including three-sherry tastings; the website…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Spain

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Jerez de la Frontera

Sep 27, 2019 • 6 min read

Andalucia is Spain at its most passionate: a rugged land of medieval castles, broad beaches and Moorish-tinged cities. Here are five reasons to visit.

Sep 18, 2019 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Jerez de la Frontera

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Jerez de la Frontera with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Jerez de la Frontera: Discover the Best of Andalucia's Sherry Capital

Jerez de la Frontera in Cadiz province, centre of the Sherry Triangle, a city with great food and plenty of places to see, should be on every visitors bucket list.

Cathedral, Jerez de la Frontera

Are you planning a trip to Andalucia, Spain and looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore? Look no further than Jerez de la Frontera. This charming city is known for its sherry, flamenco, and equestrian traditions, making it a unique and culturally rich experience for any traveller.

Jerez de la Frontera must be one of the most undiscovered tourist attractions in Andalucia. This may be due to its position, almost midway between the famous cities of Cádiz and Seville, or just an accident. It may be that its charms are difficult to find because signposting of its hotels and attractions within the city is, to be kind, poor.

None of that matters because the local populace is not only very friendly, the majority also speak excellent English due to the influx of English partners and staff into the booming sherry industry over the last two hundred years.

Dive into this guide and unwrap Jerez's many layers – from its Moorish palaces and sherry bodegas to its spirited festivals and sultry flamenco scene. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Andalucia.

Brief History of Jerez

The first settlement in the area is attributed to the Tartessians and the Phoenicians, with whom they traded, called the town Seres. It was later occupied by the Romans and the name was romanised to Ceret.

There is no trace of a Roman presence in Jerez itself, they seemed to have confined themselves to another Tartessian city called Asta Regia about 11 kilometres away in an area called the Mesas de Asta. The Visigoths and Vandals briefly had a presence until the town was taken by the Moors in 711 AD.

The 11th, 12th and 13th centuries were a turbulent time for Xerez as it was now called. In the 11th Century, Xerez briefly became the seat of an independent taifa until, in 1040, it was united with Arcos de la Frontera. In 1053, it was annexed to Seville and became part of the emirate dependent on Granada.

The Almohads conquered the city in the mid 12th Century. In 1231, at the Battle of Jerez, Alvaro Perez de Castro, the grandson of Alfonso VII of Castile and Leon, defeated the Moors and the city was finally taken by the Christians in 1264.

Why Visit Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is often overlooked in favour of Seville and Cadiz, but if you have some time to spare in your itinerary, a visit here will yield a rich taste of authentic Andalucia.

First, there's the sherry. Jerez is the birthplace of this renowned wine, and a tour of its historic bodegas is a journey into a rich, liquid heritage. For culture seekers, the city echoes with the rhythmic claps and soulful tunes of flamenco, a testament to its deep-rooted traditions.

Architecture enthusiasts will be drawn to landmarks like the Alcázar and the Cathedral of San Salvador, each telling tales of epochs gone by. Add to this mix the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, showcasing the beauty of the Andalucian horse and horse-riding as a form of high art.

If you're looking for a Spanish destination that offers more than just tourist traps and crowded plazas, Jerez is your answer. It's a city that offers a genuine slice of the region's culture, history, and spirit. Visit Jerez, and you'll soon understand why it's a gem in the Andalucian crown.

Getting to Jerez De La Frontera

The Alcazar, Jerez de la Frontera

If you're planning a trip to Jerez De La Frontera, you'll need to know how to get there. Fortunately, the city is well-connected to other parts of Spain, making it easy to reach by air, train, or road.

Jerez De La Frontera has its own airport, Jerez Airport (XRY), which is located just 10km north of the city centre. The airport is served by several airlines, including Ryanair and Iberia, and offers regular flights to and from destinations across Europe.

Another nearby option is Seville Airport (SVQ), which is roughly an hour's drive away and offers a broader range of international flights.

To get from the Jerez airport to the city centre, you have several options. If you’re road-tripping through Andalucia, the airport is a great place to pick up a rental car for your explorations.

Taxis are available outside the airport terminal. A ride to the city centre typically takes about 15 minutes, but do note that fares can be higher during nighttime and on holidays.

The cheapest option is the bus. The Linea M-050 bus connects the airport with the central bus station, with services running regularly throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Jerez De La Frontera has a train station, Jerez de la Frontera Station, which is located in the city centre. The station is served by several trains a day from Seville, Cadiz, and other cities in Andalucia.

If you're travelling from Madrid, there are a handful of direct trains to Jerez and the travel time is about 4 hours. There are no direct trains from Barcelona; you’ll have to travel through Madrid and change trains there so it’s much better to fly if you’re coming from Barcelona.

For those who prefer road travel without the commitment of driving, the bus system offers a cost-effective and straightforward way to reach Jerez.

Jerez's central bus station, situated in the heart of the city, serves as a hub for numerous regional and national routes. Major cities such as Malaga, Granada, and even Madrid have direct services to Jerez, albeit with longer travel times.

Several daily buses operated by different companies, including Damas and Comes, connect Seville's Prado de San Sebastián bus station with Jerez. The trip generally takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Buses from Cadiz to Jerez are frequent and the journey is short, usually under an hour. This route is primarily managed by the Comes bus company.

Jerez De La Frontera is well-connected to other parts of Andalucia by road. The city is located just off the A4 motorway, which runs from Madrid to Cadiz.

If you're driving from Seville, you can take the A4 or the A-471 motorway, which runs through the countryside. The drive is roughly 90 kilometres and takes about an hour under normal conditions.

From Cadiz, take the A-381 motorway which connects Cadiz with Jerez, offering a quick 45-minute drive for the 35-kilometre distance.

The city offers several public parking garages and lots. While street parking is available, it can be challenging to find a spot during peak times or events so be sure to research paid parking options before you arrive, just in case.

Remember to familiarise yourself with local driving regulations and always have your driving licence, insurance, and other necessary documents at hand when driving in Spain.

Getting Around Jerez De La Frontera

Navigating Jerez is relatively easy thanks to its compact city layout and efficient public transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get around the city.

If you’re just visiting for the day or staying in the centre, getting around by foot is your best option. Jerez's city centre is pedestrian-friendly, with many of its main attractions situated within a walkable distance from each other. Strolling around also offers a chance to absorb the city's charming architecture and vibrant street life.

Buses in Jerez

The city's bus network, operated by Consorcio de Transportes Bahía de Cádiz, covers most areas of Jerez, making it a practical choice for longer distances or when looking to save time.

Various routes crisscross the city, ensuring connectivity to major sights, residential areas, and even the outskirts. Timetables are generally regular, with buses running more frequently during peak hours.

You can purchase single-journey tickets (about €1 per trip) directly from the bus driver, but if you plan to use the bus frequently during your stay, consider buying a multi-journey card (buy them from selected kiosks in the city) for better value. View fare details and where to buy multi-journey cards here.

The City Sightseeing Jerez de la Frontera Hop-on Hop-off Tour is a popular way to explore the city's top attractions. The tour bus stops at 12 different locations, including the Alcázar, the Cathedral, and the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. You can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like, making it a convenient and flexible way to explore the city.

Taxis in Jerez

Taxis are readily available in Jerez De La Frontera and are a great option for those who prefer a more private and comfortable mode of transport.

Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through a taxi company. The fares are reasonable and are calculated based on the distance travelled. It is recommended to only use licensed taxis to ensure safety and avoid scams.

Bike Rentals

For a more eco-friendly way to explore jerez de la frontera, consider renting a bike. jerez is becoming increasingly cycle-friendly, with more bike lanes and routes being introduced. various rental agencies offer daily or hourly rates, providing an active way to explore the city. biking is a great way to see the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time. just be sure to follow the local traffic rules and wear a helmet for safety., car rental in jerez.

If you're planning to explore areas outside Jerez or prefer the flexibility of driving, there are several car rental agencies within the city. However, do remember that finding parking in the city centre can be challenging, especially during peak times.

Given the city's layout and the availability of public transport, renting a car is generally not necessary unless you have specific plans to explore the wider region.

What to Do in Jerez de la Frontera

General Miguel Primo de Rivera, Jerez de la Frontera

A tour of a bodega is almost mandatory in Jerez but for those prepared to look, there is lots more to see! Let’s dive into the best things to do in Jerez.

Plaza del Arenal

You will inevitably arrive in Plaza del Arenal, the main square in the town. A vibrant hub of activity and a focal point for locals and visitors alike, its spaciousness makes it one of the largest squares in Andalucia.

The plaza has seen many historical events over the centuries, making it a window into Jerez's past. It used to be a sandy arena where tournaments and fairs were held, which is where the name 'Arenal' (sandy) comes from.

Today, Plaza del Arenal is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to sip on a coffee or enjoy local tapas while watching the world go by. In the centre is a sculpture of General Miguel Primo de Rivera mounted on a horse. Rivera was born in Jerez and became dictator of Spain between 1923 and 1930.

Alcazar de Jerez de la Frontera

Just outside Plaza del Arenal and to the south is the Alcazar de Jerez de la Frontera, one of the city's most popular attractions.

The palace has been used as a residence for many different rulers over the centuries and has undergone several renovations. Today, you can explore the palace and its beautiful gardens, which offer stunning views of the city.

The Alcazar in Jerez was built in the 12th century and is one of the few examples of Almohade architecture in Spain. Remaining from that period are two gates, a small mosque, an octagonal tower, the baths, the Palace of Doña Blanca and the Villavicencia Palace.

The Alcazar dates back to the 12th century with some more modern additions: the homage tower was built in the 15th century and the oil mill in the 18th. The most attractive part of the Alcazar has to be the gardens, laid out in typical symmetrical Arabic style, with an enormous sculpture of three horses and a number of small fountains. The whole has been well-preserved. As you enter the Alcazar through the city gate, the mosque is to your left. Whilst not being as large or elaborate as the Mezquita in Cordoba, it has a simple charm more fitting to its purpose.

In the Villavicencia Palace, on the ground floor, is a relief model of Xerez as it was in the 12th century after the Alcazar was built. It is only when you see this model that you realise how extensive the city was at that time.

There's an entrance fee, with discounts available for students, seniors, and large groups. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, offering deeper insights into the Alcazar's past and its various sections.

➡️ This guided tour of the Alcazar and Cathedral will take you to two of Jerez’s best attractions!

Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and to witness the Alcazar bathed in the soft glow of the golden hour.

Grape Arbor, Gonzalex Bias Bodega

Catedral de San Salvador

An imposing yet elegant structure, the Cathedral of Jerez, or "Catedral de San Salvador", stands as an emblem of the city's rich religious and architectural heritage.

Built on the site of the city's former main mosque following the Christian reconquest, the cathedral was constructed in the 17th century. It showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the various influences and trends of its time.

The cathedral's roots in Gothic design are evident in its pointed arches and ribbed vaults. Over time, Baroque elements were integrated into its structure, particularly noticeable in the facade and certain interior decorations. Meanwhile, the cathedral's dome and certain chapels exhibit classic Renaissance features.

Also notable is the main altarpiece, a masterpiece of Baroque artistry that depicts various biblical scenes. Don’t forget to admire the beautiful stained glass windows as well!

Adjacent to the cathedral is an archaeological museum that showcases artefacts tracing back to Jerez's ancient past, from Roman times to the medieval period. It's worth a visit to complement your understanding of the region's history.

There's a modest entrance fee to enter the cathedral. You can buy tickets here (includes an audioguide). For those keen on panoramic city views, head up the cathedral's tower. You can also choose to go on a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and architecture.

Tip: If you can, try attending a service, especially on a Sunday. The cathedral comes alive with liturgical music, allowing visitors to experience its spiritual essence amidst its historical grandeur.

Other notable churches in Jerez include the Church of San Miguel, the Church of San Juan de los Caballeros, and the Church of San Dionisio. If you are interested in history, be sure to include these sites in your Jerez itinerary.

Sherry and Bodega Tours in Jerez

Jerez de la Frontera is synonymous with sherry, a fortified wine that has put this Andalusian city on the global map. Deeply ingrained in the city's culture, tradition, and economy, sherry is more than just a drink in Jerez; it's a way of life.

Sherry production in Jerez dates back over 3,000 years, with the Phoenicians introducing viticulture to the region. Over the centuries, the Moors refined the distillation process, and by the time of the Reconquista, Jerez had firmly established itself as the epicentre of sherry production.

The city is dotted with numerous bodegas (wineries) ranging from sprawling establishments to quaint, family-run ventures. These bodegas offer guided tours where visitors can learn about the intricate sherry-making process, from grape cultivation to the final ageing process.

Some of the most popular bodegas in Jerez De La Frontera include:

• Bodegas Tio Pepe
• Bodegas Fundador
• Bodegas Tradición

During a bodega tour in Jerez, you'll learn about the history and production process of sherry, and do tastings to discern the distinct flavour profiles and complexities of each type. Varieties range from the light and dry Fino and Manzanilla to the rich and sweet Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez.

Visiting in September? Then you’re in luck as the annual Jerez Sherry Festival is not to be missed. This week-long celebration sees the city come alive with parades, horse shows, flamenco performances, and, of course, sherry tasting sessions.

Jerez de la Frontera, along with El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlúcar de Barrameda , are the three points on the 'Sherry Triangle'. In order to be called sherry, the wine has to be produced within this area. So, whilst you are here, why not take a look at the other towns in the triangle? In any case, you can sample all the different types of sherry at many of the small bodegas.

Tip: When touring the bodegas, I recommend booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals. Some bodegas also offer pairing sessions, allowing visitors to enjoy sherry with traditional Spanish tapas, enhancing the tasting experience.

Horse Shows in Jerez

Jerez De La Frontera is known for its equestrian tradition, and you can witness it first hand at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. The school is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of classical horsemanship, and it offers regular shows and performances that showcase the beauty and skill of the horses and riders.

Their famously choreographed performance ‘How the Andalucian Horses Dance’ is famous throughout Spain. The shows are accompanied by live music and are a true spectacle to behold.

One of the best things you can do in Jerez is to see a show and tour the school that includes the training sessions, the stables, the Palace rooms, the Museum of Equestrian Arts and the Carriage Museum.

In my opinion, this is the top cultural experience in Jerez, so don’t miss it!

Check availability for your Jerez visit below:

Plus, if you’re visiting in May, the first week of May is the time of the Feria del Caballo when these beautifully groomed horses parade around the city. The school also organises gala performances on Fridays and Saturdays during the feria.

You will find more horses in Plaza del Caballo, a giant sculpture of two bronze horses, and yet more in Plaza Mamelon. There you will see a monumental bronze of a carriage being drawn by five horses with an outrider. It is the work of Eduardo Soriano.

Walking Tour of Jerez de la Frontera

For an easy way to see the highlights of Jerez and learn more about the city’s history and culture, I highly recommend taking a walking tour of Jerez. It’s a great way to get to know the city and discover which of its attractions you’re most interested in seeing.

To look for free walking tours, I always use Guruwalk and they have a selection of Jerez walking tours you can choose from. Choose the theme, language, and schedule that best suits your needs and you’re all set! (Don’t forget to tip your guide if you enjoyed your tour!)

Palace of Time (Clock Museum)

Situated in the heart of Jerez, on Calle Cervantes, the Palace of Time, also known as the "Museo de Relojes” (The Clock Museum) is a must-visit for both horology enthusiasts and history buffs.

This 19th-century Renaissance palace is home to an extraordinary collection of clocks. Acquired by wealthy individuals during their travels, these timepieces became symbols of prestige and were often gifted to the city.

On the hour, every hour, all the 302 clocks variously ring, chime, ding and dong. On the quarter hour, only the English clocks chime, deep Westminster chimes predominate, and on the half hour it is the turn of the French clocks, lighter tinkles and trings in the background.

The majority of the displays are unique pieces from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, each spotlighted in beautiful mahogany cases and each wound conscientiously every week by the two employed clockmakers.

You will see the striking contrast between the French clocks and the English. The French were much more concerned with the decorative aspect of their clocks rather than the mechanism whilst the English clocks are less decorative but have more accurate timekeeping. The debate during the 16th century was whether or not a long pendulum produced more accurate time. Only later science in the 17th century proved that the length of the pendulum was important.

The clock museum houses the largest collection of working clocks from this period in the world.

You will also see some unusual clocks including a portable English sundial clock.

Portable sundials have been used for timekeeping since at least the 12th century. Later versions were aligned north/south using an integral compass. The gun clock also utilised a sundial. This was a more permanent structure. At noon the sun’s rays were focused using a magnifying glass on the touchhole of a small cannon. This ignited the gunpowder and discharged the cannon, brilliant.

A small entry fee is charged and guided tours are available, providing detailed insights into the stories and mechanisms behind each timepiece.

Tip: Allocate sufficient time for your visit. While the museum may seem compact, the sheer detail and intricacy of each clock warrant close observation and appreciation.

Read more about the Clock Museum here.

Flamenco in Jerez

Flamenco, the soulful art form of Andalusia, is deeply rooted in the culture of Jerez. As one of the cradles of flamenco, Jerez offers an authentic experience, far from the more commercialised versions in some tourist-heavy locations.

Jerez, along with Seville and Granada, forms the flamenco triangle, the region where this evocative art form originated. In the narrow streets of Jerez's historic districts, the echoes of foot-tapping, guitar strumming, and profound singing have been resonating for centuries.

A tablao is a place where flamenco shows are performed, while peñas are flamenco clubs. Both venues offer an intimate setting for visitors to experience flamenco. While tablaos often cater to tourists, peñas are where locals gather, offering a raw and unfiltered look at flamenco culture.

Some of the best venues for flamenco shows in Jerez De La Frontera include:

• Tablao Flamenco Puro Arte
• Tablao La Guarida Del Angel
• Peña Flamenca Buena Gente

Tip: While impromptu street performances are not uncommon, for a guaranteed experience, it's advisable to book a show at a reputable tablao or check the schedule of local peñas . If visiting during the Festival de Jerez, make sure to book tickets and accommodation well in advance.

Palacio del Virrey Laserna

The Palacio del Virrey Laserna is an architectural gem that beautifully encapsulates the city's illustrious past. Owned by the same noble family for over eight generations, this palace has been home to many significant figures, most notably the Viceroy of New Granada and the Viceroy of Peru.

The architecture of the palacio is well worth admiring.

The exterior of the palace, with its tall windows and intricate wrought-iron work, is both commanding and inviting. The central courtyard or patio, a quintessential feature of Andalucian homes, is particularly striking with its lush greenery, decorative tiles, and ornate archways. Stepping inside the palace is like taking a journey back in time. Each room showcases period-appropriate décor, from ornate chandeliers to exquisite tapestries.

A visit to Palacio del Virrey Laserna offers insights into the lifestyles of Spanish nobility, the city’s ties with the New World, and stories of the individuals who once walked its halls.

To maintain its pristine condition and offer a quality experience, visits to the palace are through guided tours in Spanish and English, at specific times. The guided tours are comprehensive, covering the history, architecture, and notable artefacts within the palace.

Check the official website for opening/tour timings. You can also buy your tickets online here.

Archaeological Museum of Jerez

The Municipal Archaeological Museum in Plaza del Mercado has displays from the Paleolithic right through to modern times.

This museum contains a 1st millennium BC Greek helmet that was dredged out of the Rio Guadalete. It is believed to be the oldest Greek object found in Spain.

It also has a rather fine carnelian necklace from the Tartessian period and a Renaissance period pulpit from the church of San Miquel.

For more on the museum, click here .

Yeguada de la Cartuja Carthusian Horses Tour

If you have more time in Jerez, one of the truly unique experiences here is the Yeguada de la Cartuja Stud Farm Tour .

This activity offers a deep dive into the majestic world of the Andalucian horse, known for its grace and agility. The Carthusian horse, a line of the Andalusian breed, has a rich history intertwined with Jerez.

During this guided tour, you’ll visit the historic Charterhouse of Jerez and discover the remarkable story of how the Carthusian monks played a crucial role in preserving and promoting this breed. Alongside learning about their history, you’ll witness firsthand the beauty of these horses in their natural environment.

The experience culminates in an impressive equestrian display, showcasing the horse's unparalleled skills and the deep bond shared between the horse and its trainer. This tour is not just for equestrian enthusiasts but also for those interested in local culture and history.

➡️ Book the tour on Get Your Guide | Book the tour on Civitatis

Eating and Drinking in Jerez

The population of Jerez obviously enjoy their food and sitting out in the evening. The city's cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, Moorish, and Roman influences, creating a unique flavour that is sure to delight your taste buds.

There are any number of cafes and bars, most of which serve tapas. You will find many local dishes such as kidneys cooked in sherry, lamb cutlets in oregano and sherry and fish in a tomato and brandy sauce; you would be excused for thinking that water is a rare commodity in Jerez cuisine.

Here are some must-try traditional dishes:

• Riñones al Jerez: A classic dish made with kidneys cooked in sherry, garlic, and spices. It is usually served as a tapa and pairs well with a glass of Fino sherry.
• Tortillitas de Camarones: A popular seafood dish made with shrimp, flour, egg, and parsley, best enjoyed with a glass of Manzanilla sherry.
• Chicharrones: Deep-fried pork belly or pork rinds that are crispy and flavourful. Goes well with a glass of Amontillado or Oloroso sherry.
• Gazpacho: A cold soup made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, garlic, and bread. A refreshing dish that is perfect for the hot summer months.
• Arroz con Pollo: A rice dish made with chicken, saffron, and vegetables. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Some of the best restaurants in the city to check out include La Cruz Blanca, El Faro, Albores , and La Carboná . If you’re visiting during peak period and have your heart set on a particular restaurant, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

Want to sample the best of Jerez in a short amount of time? This Jerez tapas tour will introduce you to the best local spots and dishes. Enjoy 3 tapas and 3 drinks and indulge in Jerez’s fabulous gastronomy. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening!

Street Food in Jerez

Prefer more casual food options? Jerez de la Frontera has a vibrant street food scene that is worth exploring.

Here are some of the best street food options in the city:

• Churros: A sweet treat made with fried dough that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are usually served with hot chocolate or café con leche.
• Montaditos : Small sandwiches that are usually served as a tapa. They come in a variety of flavours and are perfect for a quick snack!
• Papas Aliñás: A cold potato salad that is usually served as a tapa. It is made with potatoes, onions, olives, and olive oil.
• Boquerones: Fresh anchovies that are usually served marinated in vinegar and olive oil. They are a popular tapa and pair well with a glass of Manzanilla sherry.

Local Markets & Food Shopping in Jerez

A visit to Jerez’s thriving markets illustrates why the food here is so great.

Situated in the heart of the city, Mercado Central de Abastos is Jerez's main market. Housed in a historical building, the market brims with stalls offering fresh seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and other regional products. It's a bustling hub where locals and tourists come together, with merchants proudly displaying their produce.

A lesser-known gem, Mercado de San Benito offers a quieter but equally vibrant shopping experience. Apart from the usual fresh produce, this market also boasts stalls selling traditional Andalucian delicacies and pastries.

Scattered across Jerez are numerous specialty shops offering regional treats . From artisan cheeses and cured meats to traditional sweets and pastries, these shops are treasure troves of gastronomic delights. Don't miss trying "turrón" (nougat), "mantecados" (shortbread cookies), and locally-produced olive oils.

Tip: Local markets in Jerez are most lively in the morning, offering the freshest produce. They’re typically closed on Sundays.If looking for specific regional delicacies, ask locals for shop recommendations – they often know the best-hidden gems. Remember to bring reusable bags, as many stalls and shops in Jerez are environmentally conscious and may not offer plastic bags.

Outdoor Activities in Jerez De La Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is not only famous for its sherry bodegas and horse shows but also for its beautiful outdoor activities. Here are some of the best outdoor activities you can enjoy during your visit to Jerez de la Frontera.

Beaches near Jerez

Jerez de la Frontera is located near the coast, so there are several beaches you can visit.

• Playa de la Victoria: This Cadiz beach is known for its golden sand and crystal-clear water. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.
• Playa de la Barrosa: Head to Chiclana de la Frontera for this gorgeous beach with its long stretch of fine sand and calm waters. It is an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing.
• Playa de Valdelagrana: Located in El Puerto de Santa Maria, this beach boasts shallow waters and fine sand, making it a family-friendly beach destination.

Parks in Jerez

Jerez de la Frontera has several parks where you can enjoy a picnic or a walk.

• Parque Gonzalez Hontoria: Centrally-located park known for its beautiful gardens and fountain, perfect for a relaxing walk.
• Parque Zoologico y Botanico: This botanical garden and zoo is an ideal destination for families with children.
• Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema: Hiking and bird-watching lovers will love this natural park that’s not too far from Jerez.

Hiking Trails near Jerez

Jerez de la Frontera is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so there are several hiking trails you can explore, particularly in Sierra de Grazalema . Sendero del Rio Majaceite and Sendero de la Garganta Verde are two great options for a day hike near Jerez.

Shopping in Jerez De La Frontera

The centre of town is full of pedestrian streets with busy big name stores in between small bodegas where you can partake of the sherries and brandies from all the bodegas in town if you so wish. Shops observe the siesta so open in the evenings until 8.00pm or later.

If you’re looking for souvenirs or unique items to bring home from Jerez, here are some ideas:

• Jerez has a longstanding tradition of exquisite ceramics and pottery . Stroll through the city's historic centre, and you'll find artisanal shops showcasing beautifully hand-painted plates, decorative tiles, and ornamental pieces.
• No trip to Jerez is complete without buying its world-renowned sherry or wine . Local bodegas often have their own shops where you can sample and purchase bottles of different varieties. For a unique gift, look for aged sherries or limited-edition wines.
• Given Jerez's fame in the equestrian world, equestrian-themed souvenirs are aplenty. From leather goods, such as saddles and boots, to miniature horse figurines and themed jewellery, there's a range of products to choose from.
• Celebrate Jerez's vibrant flamenco scene with memorabilia like traditional flamenco dresses, hand-crafted castanets, or CDs of local flamenco artists.
• Jerez boasts specialty food shops offering regional treats perfect for gifting. Think almond-studded turrones, aromatic olive oils, or even gourmet salts flavoured with local herbs.

If you prefer modern shopping malls, one of the most popular is the Luz Shopping Centre . This mall has over 100 stores, including international brands such as Zara, Mango, and H&M. You can also find a variety of restaurants and a cinema.

Another popular mall is the Área Sur Shopping Centre . This mall has over 70 stores, including popular brands such as Primark, Pull & Bear, and Bershka.

Ferias and Festivals in Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is becoming famous for its ferias and festivals.

In early May, thousands of motorcyclists from all over the world congregate for the Jerez MotoGP Grand Prix motorcycle racing event that is held at the Circuito de Jerez. This is one of the most watched races in Europe. The thrilling races combined with the festive atmosphere make it a standout sporting event in Spain's calendar.

Just after the MotoGP, usually towards the end of May, is the Feria del Caballo , sometimes called the Feria de Jerez, one of the most important fairs in Cadiz province.

This is celebrated in the Parque Gonzalez Hontoria. It dates back to Mediaeval times when local farmers gathered to sell their animals, often horses. Bars and restaurants are erected in the park. They are called ‘casitas’. In between admiring the animals or taking a turn on the fairground rides, you can wander in and out of the casetas sampling the food and drink. Do not forget to ask for fino sherry.

During the last week of Lent, Jerez, as with many Andalucian towns, commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ . The Catholic brotherhoods within the town perform penance processions through the streets.

In early March, look out for the Festival de Jerez is a two-week extravaganza of all things flamenco, dancing, live music, eating and drinking.

Sherry lovers, mark out September as the Sherry Wine Festival (Fiesta de la Vendimia) begins on the first weekend of the month. Celebrating the grape harvest and Jerez's status as the sherry capital, this festival is a wine lover's dream. Events include the 'First Grape Pressing' ceremony, wine tastings, flamenco shows, and culminate with the election of the 'Grape Harvest Queen'.

Together with the national holidays and saints days, there is hardly a week in the year that Jerez de la Frontera is not celebrating something.

Remember, accommodations and transport can get booked up quickly around these events, so it's wise to plan ahead.

Accommodation in Jerez De La Frontera

Choosing the right place to stay can shape your entire Jerez experience. The city has a range of accommodations that cater to varying preferences and budgets.

For most visitors, I highly recommend staying in the Jerez Historic Centre . The heart of Jerez is dotted with cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and tapas bars and you’ll be within walking distance of major attractions such as the Alcazar and the Cathedral.

➡️ Recommended Hotels: Hotel Palacio Garvey | Hotel Bodega Tío Pepe

If you’re here for the city’s flamenco, then stay in Barrio de Santiago , a traditional neighbourhood renowned for its deep flamenco roots. This is the ideal area for those wanting an authentic Jerez experience amidst historic streets, with local bars offering impromptu flamenco shows.

➡️ Recommended Hotels: Hipotels Sherry Park | Astuto Boutique Jerez - Adults Only

Just popping into Jerez for a short visit? Then staying around the Jerez train station may work best for you. This is a modern part of the city with convenient transport links, particularly if you’re travelling to/form Jerez by train. This is ideal if you’re prioritising connectivity, especially for day trips outside Jerez. The area also has contemporary amenities and shopping options.

➡️ Recommended Hotels: Suites Alfonso X | Hotel Doña Blanca

For something more secluded and tranquil, head to the Jerez countryside where you can enjoy scenic vineyards and tranquil surroundings a short drive from the city centre. Ideal for those looking for a serene retreat, often in boutique hotels or converted farmhouses, you’ll need a car to make the most of your stay in the Andalucian countryside.

➡️ Recommended Hotels: La Cueva Park | Puerta de Algadir

For those travelling on a tight budget , Albergue Inturjoven Jerez de la Frontera and Pension San Andres I are popular choices.

Tip: When booking your accommodation, especially during peak seasons or during major events like the Sherry Wine Festival, it’s advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred choice and get competitive rates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Jerez de la Frontera

How many days should I spend in Jerez de la Frontera? Jerez de la Frontera is a relatively small city, so you could see the main attractions in a day or two. However, if you want to fully experience the city's culture, history, and gastronomy, we recommend spending at least three days.

What are the must-see attractions in Jerez de la Frontera? Jerez de la Frontera is known for its sherry bodegas, so a visit to at least one of them is a must. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art is another top attraction, where you can watch horses and riders perform traditional dressage. Other must-sees include the Alcázar of Jerez, the Cathedral of San Salvador, and the Archaeological Museum.

What is the best time of year to visit Jerez de la Frontera? The best time to visit Jerez de la Frontera is during the spring and autumn months when the temperatures are pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 40°C, and many locals go on holiday during August.

Is Jerez de la Frontera worth visiting? Absolutely! Jerez de la Frontera is a charming and authentic Andalucian city, with a rich history, culture, and gastronomy. It's also less touristy than other cities in Andalucia, so you can experience the real Spain.

Should I stay in Cadiz or Jerez de la Frontera? It depends on your preferences. Cadiz is a coastal city with beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere, while Jerez de la Frontera is an inland city known for its sherry bodegas and equestrian traditions. Both cities are worth visiting, so you could split your time between them or choose the one that suits your interests more.

How can I get from Cadiz port to Jerez de la Frontera? The easiest way to get from Cadiz port to Jerez de la Frontera is by train. There are frequent trains that depart from Cadiz station and arrive at Jerez de la Frontera station in around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you could take a bus or taxi or rent a car.

More on Jerez de la Frontera

• Andalucian Dancing Horses in Jerez
• Palace of Time
• Archaelogical Museum in Jerez
• Arcos de la Frontera
• Sierra de Grazalema Parque Natural
• Setenil de la Bodegas

Map of Jerez de La Frontera Hotels

Places to go in jerez de la frontera.

Museums and Galleries in Jerez de la Frontera

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Affiliate Disclaimer

© Visit-Andalucia 2015 - 2024

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

30 best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)

Last updated on August 28, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover all the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera in Andalucia, Spain:

• Cathedral and Alcazar,
• Town, churches and Monuments,
• Sherry Wine tasting,
• Horse and Dance shows…

Plus all my tips to make the most of your time in Jerez: Map, getting around, hotels…

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Andalucia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Andalucia: DiscoverCars

The unmissable visit: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces

My favorite excursion from Seville: White villages and Ronda

My favorite places to stay:

• Seville , to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• Cadiz , the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• Ronda , to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• Nerja , pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

Why visit Jerez de la Frontera in Spain?

Is jerez de la frontera worth visiting.

Jerez de la Frontera is definitely worth visiting. Even though Jerez is not as popular as other Andalucian cities, it has a lot to offer. There are a variety of things to do in Jerez, like seeing its stunning architecture and museums, tasting its famous wine, watching unique horse shows, and more.

One of the best towns to visit in Andalucia ( see my list ).

What is Jerez de la Frontera famous for?

Jerez de la Frontera is famous all over the world for its sherry and brandy. In fact, the word sherry is an anglicized version of the word Jerez. Jerez de la Frontera is also famous for its fine horses, flamenco, and rich music.

Top 5 things to do in Jerez de la Frontera

I will introduce the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera in more detail later in the article. Here’s the list of the top 5 things to do in Jerez de la Frontera.

• Visit the Alcazar – the famous 11th-century fortress
• Climb the Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral tower and enjoy stunning views
• Visit the Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral
• Stroll around town through its small lanes and soak in the architectural beauty of Jerez, with over 20 churches
• Visit a winery and taste sherry wine 

About the name

The name Jerez comes from the old Arabic name ‘Sherish.’ In the Muslim period, it was also known as Xerez.‘ De la Frontera’ means ‘of the frontier’ or ’of the border.’ It was added to the name to signify the town’s position on the border between the Christian and Islamic populations in Spain. The word ‘sherry’ is also derived from Jerez – famous for producing fortified wine (sherry)

Do not confuse it with the town ‘Jerez de Garcia Salinas’ located in Mexico.

More photos after the planning tips.

Planning Tips & Map – Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucia

Where is jerez de la frontera located map .

• In the Cadiz province of Andalucia (South-West).
• Cadiz to Jerez = 30 minute drive
• Seville to Jerez = 1h15 minute drive
• Connected by E5, A-4, A-381, A-382, A-480
• Below is a map to help you get oriented:

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Andalucia :

Plan your dream trip in Andalucia thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 150+ pre-selected locations
• GPS + tips to make the most of your time
• 300+ original photos to help you choose

How to get to Jerez de la Frontera

• Your best option is to rent a car and drive to Jerez.
• You can also take a bus from Cadiz or Seville or Malaga – Alsa is the leading bus operator
• You can take a regional train (Andalucia Express) going to Cadiz from Seville and get down at Jerez. A few long-distance trains from Madrid Atocha also halt at Jerez.
• You can also reach Jerez as part of an organized tour from Sevilla (combined with Cadiz) – See details and availability
• Alternatively, take a tour from Seville (without Cadiz but with a horse show) – see details and availability

Need to rent a car in Andalucia?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Parking 

• Parking is outside the city center as the city center is a pedestrian area.
• There is paid underground parking in Plaza del Arenal, Calle Corredera, Alameda Cristina, and Alameda Vieja close to the center.
• Roadside parking outside the city center with a ticket is for a limited time. Tourists should avoid this option.

Best time to visit Jerez

• The best time to visit Jerez is Spring or Autumn when the weather is pleasant.
• July and August are pretty hot, and it is best to avoid visiting Jerez during these months.
• February and March can also be interesting with a lot less crowds and the orange trees blossoming.
• Best to visit on a weekday as Saturdays are usually crowded, and a few attractions are shut on Sunday.

Getting around

• The best way to explore Jerez is on foot, as vehicles are not allowed inside the city center.
• Most of the key attractions are close to each other. For example, Alcazar is just 300 meters away from the Cathedral.
• Many walking tours are conducted during the day – check out this one – But you can always plan your own walking tour.
• There are a few hop-on-hop-off buses too that take you around key tourist attractions – 

How long to visit Jerez

• Most of the key tourist attractions in Jerez can be seen in a day.
• But if you want to explore the attractions in greater depth or add a few interesting experiences to your itinerary, you will need to spend at least two days in Jerez.
• Jerez can also be an excellent base to explore nearby Andalucian towns like Cadiz, Bolonia, Costa de la Luz, etc. In this case, you should stay in Jerez for a longer period.

Visit Tips 

• Jerez has wide cobbled streets that are pedestrian-friendly.
• Nice touristy maps are available in hotels and visitor centers.
• The town is easy to walk around – but make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Avoid heels.
• There are many restaurants spread out all across town.
• Sherry tasting tours are a Jerez specialty and definitely worth experiencing.
• Central Market (Mercado Central de Abastos) is shut on Sunday.
• You can enjoy free parking for a few hours without a paid ticket on Sunday.
• The Cathedral Tower allows free entry for a few hours on Sunday.
• Head to the visitor center to get a free map and advice

Where to stay in Jerez de la Frontera

You can find a good choice of hotels and rentals within walking distance of all the attractions.

• I stayed at the Eurostars Asta Regia Jerez hotel – located in an old style building, it has a perfect location for explore all on foot. And it comes with a buffet-style breakfast – check out photos and availability
• For luxury, check out Hotal Casa Palacio Maria Luisa with stunning architecture and design – check out photos and availability
• For a rental apartment, have a look at Amplio Apto Centro Vistas Torneria – check out photos and availability
• Otherwise check out all the best rated accommodations in Jerez de la Frontera

Where to stay in Andalucia?

My favorites on a road trip:

• In Sevilla, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• In Cadiz, the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• In Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• In Granada, for the history – see best rated accommodations
• In Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

#1 to 4 – Visit the Jerez Alcazar (Fort) – best thing to do in Jerez de la Frontera

The Alcazar is one of the most important tourist attractions in Jerez. The structures inside the complex, like the fortress, mosque, bath, tower, palace, etc., are all well preserved. A visit to the Alcazar gives insights into the Moorish and Christian influences over Jerez. The Alcazar was built by the Almohads in the 12th century. It was built after demolishing Caliphate constructions from the second Taifa period.

Later, in the 14th century, it became the seat of Christian mayors, and more structures were built in the area.

• Opening hours:  9:30am to 3pm and 9:30am to 6pm (In July and August)
• Price: Historic site: Adults: €3 – Monumental Site and Dark Camera: Adults: €5.40 
• Check latest info on  Official website

The site includes several elements from different period. All are worth visiting.

#1 – Walk on the Fortification walls

You can see the remains of the fortifying walls of the Alcazar originally built by Almohad. Three distinct influences – those of the Caliphate, Almohads, and Alfonso X’s governors can be seen here. Notice the octagonal towers!

#2 – Discover the Mosque / Chapel

The Christianised Mosque, which is beautifully preserved, is a must-visit attraction too.

Originally a mosque, it was converted to a chapel in the Alfonso X regime. It was dedicated to Santa Maria la Real. Inside, you can find architectural nuances depicting its transformation from a mosque to a chapel.

#3 – Explore the other ruins: baths, cistern

You will also find the well-preserved remains of the Arab baths. A cistern used to feed the bakery, and the kitchen garden is worth seeing.

#4 – Visit the Palace

You should then visit the Palace of Villavicencio. This palace was built in a totally different era from the rest of the structures at the Alcazar. The palace can be traced back to the 17th century, when the Alcazar was looked after by the Villavicencio family.

The third floor of the palace is famous for its 19th-century pharmacy displaying interesting medical jars.And make sure you check out the rooms inside the palace decorated with old posters depicting the changing history of this place.

One of the best castles in Andalucia – see our list.

#5 to 8 – Jerez Cathedral and Tower

Just a few meters from the Alcaraz is yet another significant monument of Jerez – the Jerez Cathedral or Catedral de Jerez. The Cathedral, although not as enormous as other European Cathedrals, has its own charm. Before this church was built here in the 17th century, this place was where the Great Mosque of Jerez was located.

• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:30am to 8pm / Sun 1pm to 8pm
• Tower closed from 1pm to 4pm
• Price : General admission: €6 or €7 with tower. The ticket includes an audio guide.

#5 – Admire the Facade

The Cathedral has three main façades. It was with a mixture of baroque, neoclassical, and Gothic styles.

The main one can be seen on climbing the stairs and is the most stunning. It is symmetrical and makes for excellent architectural photos. The use of blue stones in the façade adds to its magnificence and distinguishes it from other European cathedrals.

#6 – Marvel at the cathedral

The inside of the cathedral boasts of detailed stonework. The use of white stone sets it apart from other exclusive Baroque-style cathedrals found all across Europe. The columns are quite impressive with the lines between the rocks. It definitively worth a visit for a very different experience than classic cathedrals.

There are many paintings and sculptures inside the Cathedral that enhance its beauty. And don’t forget to loop up and look at the sculpted ceiling.

#7 – Visit the Sanctuary & Sacristy, chapter house

You will find an intricately created sanctuary in the Cathedral. It houses historical artifacts. The Sacristy boasts of furnitures, paintings, robes, ornamented plates, and a charming gold filigree cup. There is a patio behind the sacristy covered in orange trees that’s excellent for shade on a hot day.

#8 – Climb the Jerez Cathedral Tower

The bell tower is separate from the main building. it was probably built on top of the minaret of the old mosque.

To go up the tower, get your ticket at the Cathedral first. Entry to the tower is included in the combined ticket. I counted just under 100 stairs to reach the top.

It is definitively worth the climb. One of my favorite moments visiting Jerez. At the top you can enjoy stunning views of the roof of the cathedral and the town, as well as the the giant bells.

For the best light, visit at the end of the day.

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

#9 to 16 – Visit the Jerez old town

The Jerez Old Town must be visited on foot.

The ‘ ruta panoramica ’ as it is called, passes through the most emblematic monuments of the city including many churches.

#9 – Relax in the Alameda Vieja park

The Alameda Vieja park, right next to the Alcazar,  is home to many orange trees. The orange trees not only add photogenic value to the park but are also a lovely place to relax and take a break when visiting Alcazar in Andalucian Summers.

On Sundays, the park comes to life thanks to its busy flea market selling antiques, books, toys, posters, clothing, and more.

If visiting in February / March, you might be lucky to see the orange trees blossoms and enjoy the sweet scent all around.

#10 – Visit the Iglesia de San Miguel

The Church of San Michael or Iglesia de San Miguel is one of the most beautiful churches in Jerez. The ticket to visit the Cathedral allows a visit to this Church as well. It was built in the 15th century under the regime of Alfonso X. The construction of the Church took several hundred years and resulted in a Church that beautifully blends Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural elements. Many find it more beautiful than the Cathedral. Its interior is adorned with the artistic use of wood, metal, and stone. The visiting hours are limited. Plan accordingly as the Church is a must-visit.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, at least 10am to 1pm

Price: included in the Cathedral ticket.

#11 – Marvel at Plaza Asuncion – San Miguel Dioniso

The Plaza Asuncion is a stunning square located in the Old Town. This square was first known as the Plaza de Los Escribanos . The scribes worked at this square in ancient times. In the middle of the square is the Monumento a la Asunción. And around the square, you can find :

• the 15th-century Gothic Mudejar-styled Church of San Dionisio.
• the former town hall (Antiguo Cabildo), a 16th-century structure built in the Renaissance style.

#12 – Notice the Old Fish market

Next, check out the Old fish Market (Pescadaria Vieja) building located right in the city center. The street has a lot of charm. The name is the due to the fact that from late 17th century and the 18th century, it was the location of the Fish Market.

This building was built in the 18th century. Today, it works as a cultural center and exhibition hall. You will find classic as well as contemporary artwork on display here. It’s an excellent place for art lovers. Expect to spend at least an hour here.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am to 2pm

#13 – Admire the façade of Palacio del Virrey Laserna

The Palace is named after Viceroy Laserna. It has remained with the same family since the 13th century. It underwent a major refurbishment in the 18th century and since then depicts a neoclassical style. José de la Serna y Martínez de Hinojosa, the first Count of the Andes, was born here, and the palace continues to be the official residence of the Counts of Andes. A descendent family member offers a guided tour of the palace to tourists making it a unique, insightful experience.

• Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday
• From October to April, mornings from 10am to 2pm, evenings from 4pm to 7pm.
• From May to September, mornings from 10am to 2pm, evenings from 5pm to 8pm.
• Sunday from 11am to 2pm.
• Price: 7 Euros

Official website – Get detailed information here  

Or you can just walk past it and admire the façade.

#14 – Seat and people watch at Plaza del Arenal

Today, you will find an equestrian statue of the ex-prime minister of Spain – Miguel Primo de Rivera and sculptures of renowned flamenco artists here. The square is always vibrant, thanks to its many restaurants and bars.

#15 – Get the time at the Clock museum

The clock museum or the Museos de la Atalaya is the only clock museum in Spain. It showcases around 300 clocks belonging to the 17th to 19th centuries. Some clocks are working even today. A 50-minute guided tour of this museum can be booked.

• Opening hours : The ticket house is open from Monday to Friday from 09am to 12:30.
• Price: €5.5  for adults
• Official website – museosdelaatalaya.com

#16 – Learn more at the Museo Arqueológico Municipa

The Museo Arquelogico Municipa or Municipal Archeological Museum doesn’t feature on many lists of must-visit places in Jerez de la Frontera. But anyone spending more than a day in Jerez should visit this place. The museum houses many exhibits from the Corinthian, Caliphate, and Roman times.

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday and public holidays: 09:00 to 15:00
• Price: €5 
• Free entry: First Saturday of every month
• Official website – Check latest infos

And keep track of your own trip!

#17 to 21 – Best Jerez de la Frontera Attractions

17 – taste  sherry wines of jerez.

As I told you earlier, the very name sherry comes from the name ‘Jerez’. So visiting a sherry winery and wine tasting is an experience nobody should miss.

History of Sherry

• Phoenicians introduced winemaking to Jerez in 11 BC.
• It grew more and more during the Roman rule (200 BC)
• Distillation techniques of the Moorish era gave it a better structure – brandy and fortified wine started getting produced
• In 1587, 3000 barrels of sherry were taken to England by Francis Drake, after which it became enormously popular, mainly in Britain but slowly in other parts of the world too.

Why should you visit a sherry winery

• Jerez has had a history of winemaking since as early as 11 BC.
• So many bodegas (cellars) carry a rich history and legacy. Obviously, that means that the stories and legends shared on a wine tour are enthralling.
• The tour is a great way of getting a ‘behind the scenes’ glimpse into the world of winemaking.
• The tour’s highlight is tasting the legendary sherries of this region.

Best sherry bodegas in Jerez

The five sherry bodegas in Jerez listed below are all outstanding.

• Bodegas González Byass (Tio Pepe)
• Bodegas Domecq Alvaro
• Díez Mérito
• Bodegas Tradición

Tasting tour

This is one of the best sherry-tasting tours: check out details and availability

Note: During the visit of Tio Pepe, you will see Ciegos street . Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful streets in Spain, it has a naturally grown thick grapevine roof over it. The street is probably the most Instagrammable spot in Jerez.

#18 – Food Tour

A trip to Jerez would be incomplete without tasting Spanish tapas. Thankfully, food tours in Jerez take you across some of the best restaurants in Jerez.

You can check out a great tour here .

#19 – Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art

The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art is one of the world’s most prestigious classical riding academies. A visit to this school gives you an insight into:

• The training of horses
• The facilities required
• History of horse breeding

The tour is also visually delightful, taking you through a lush garden, a 19th-century palace, and stables.

Here’s an excellent tour – see details and availability

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm (see website )

#20 – Horse show

Jerez is as famous for its horse shows as it is for its sherries. In fact, you may be able to taste sherry in other parts of the world, but you will have to be in Jerez to experience one of its famous horse shows. Seeing the effortlessness with which horses and their riders perform various skills will leave you awe-struck.

The most famous one is – How the Andalusian Horses dance. Check out details and availability

If you want to learn more about the Carthusian breed and watch a dressage exhibition, check out this tour here: Check out details and availability

#21 – Flamenco

Visiting Jerez is the best way to learn all about Andalucian culture. From sherry and horse shows to flamenco, Jerez packs the best of Spain for you. Renowned flamenco artists from Jerez are La Paquera de Jerez and Lola Flores, whose monuments can be seen in the Old Town of Jerez.

In fact, you will find plenty of flamenco bars and restaurants all across town. If it’s your first time watching flamenco, make sure you enjoy the authentic one, often included in tours like this one here – check out details and availability

#22 to 24 – Things to do Around Jerez de la Frontera

#22 – monasterio de la cartuja.

The Carthusian Monastery was built in the 15th century under the orders of the knight Álvaro Obertos de Valeto. Even today, it is considered by many to be one of the most spectacular monuments in the province of Cadiz. You can only enter the garden and the patio area. Entry inside is prohibited. But even then, the place is worth visiting for its exquisite facade.

#23 – Cadiz

Cadiz is just an hour away from Jerez. You can visit Cadiz on a day trip.

Some of the best things to do in Cadiz are:

• Take a stroll at El Malecón – the Cuban-looking coastline of Spain
• Relax at Playa de la Caleta – A small beach close to the center
• Visit its many beautiful churches, cathedrals, and monuments
• Taste its delicious food – churros, camarones, and more

See my list of the best things to do in Cadiz .

#24 – Relax at a beach near Jerez de la Frontera

The closest beaches are those just East of Cadiz. They can be reached in under 30 minutes of driving.

#25 to 30 – Extra ideas if your are staying longer in Jerez

#25 – take longer day trips.

You can also stay in Jerez for your holiday and enjoy longer day trips to:

• Ronda and the white villages
• Bolonia beach, dunes and ruins
• Trafalgar cape
• Vejer de la frontera

#26 to #30  – Explore the rest of the city with its churches and streets 

• #25 – Visit Iglesia de San Juan de los Caballeros

The best part about a walk around the old town is that you come across many beautiful monuments that may not be very famous but are charming nonetheless. The Iglesia de San Juan de los Caballeros is one such monument. This Church was built under the rule of Alfonso X and is a historic parish of his times with modest Gothic and Golden ornaments inside. This moderate church in the San Juan neighborhood has a Mudejar style to the otherwise modest Gothic and Renaissance structure.

• #26 – Visit Iglesia de Santiago

The buzzing Santiago square in Jerez is named after the Santiago Church. The original church by the same name was built immediately after the reconquest. But the one you see today was built in the 15th and 16th centuries. The construction is mainly Gothic except for the tower and belfry – built later using the Baroque style. It is not as beautiful as the Cathedral or some other churches in Jerez. But it is worth a visit purely as a place of worship.

• #27 – Visit the Mercado Central de Abastos

The most bustling place in Jerez is the Mercado Central de Abastos. The neoclassical building of the market dates back to 1873. But even today, it continues to be used as the primary market of Jerez. You will find fresh fish, top-quality meat, and excellent fruits and vegetables here. Right outside the market is a churros stall – ideal for a budget-friendly coffee & churros breakfast. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am to 2:45pm

• #28 – Iglesia de San Mateo

The Old Town of Jerez is replete with churches, cathedrals, and other monuments that go back a few centuries. The San Mateo Church is one such Church that dates back to the 13th century. Along with the Iglesia de San Juan de Los Caballeros, this one was also one of the six parishes built after the Reconquest. The Church is worth checking out if you have some extra time on hand.

• #29 – Convento de Santo Domingo

This Church featured in the series ‘The Crown’ and has recently gained popularity. Like most churches of Jerez, this church was also built in the 13th century under Alfonso X’s regime. It was the first church constructed outside the wall enclosures of the town. It is significant for conducting the first Catholic mass in Jerez after the Reconquest.

Is Jerez de la Frontera on the coast?

Jerez de la Frontera is not on the coast. The best beaches near Jerez de la Frontera are in Cadiz – a short drive away from Jerez de la Frontera.

Is Jerez de la Frontera safe?

Jerez de la Frontera is as safe as any other Andalucian town. But exercising basic caution, like in most tourist areas, is always advisable.

Jerez de la Frontera or Cadiz? Where to stay?

Whether to stay at Jerez de la Frontera or Cadiz depends on what type of holiday you like.

• If you like beaches, coastlines, and more buzz – stay at Cadiz and visit Jerez de la Frontera for a day – check out best rated accommodations in Cadiz
• If you like horse shows, sherry, and flamenco and don’t plan to spend much time on a beach: stay in Jerez de la Frontera  – check out best rated accommodations in Jerez

Want to see more of the best Andalucia has to offer?

• Best landscapes in Andalucia in 40 pictures – read article
• 17 most beautiful white villages in Andalucia – read article
• 20 best beaches in Andalucia – read article
• 21+ best cities and towns in Andalucia – read article
• Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada – where to go? – read article
• Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia – read article

Planning a trip to Andalucia?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

PREVIOUS: 

Best things to do in Antequera

NEXT: 

Best things to do in Cadiz

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr LoireLovers.fr CorsicaLovers.fr Provencelovers.fr

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca

Jerez de la Frontera

Visitor & Tourist Information

Jerez  de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera, nestled in the heart of Andalusia, is a city steeped in a rich tapestry of culture, history, and an unparalleled wine-making heritage.

Renowned for its flamenco pulse and the world-famous sherry production, this enchanting city offers a profound insight into Spain's essence.

The soul of Jerez lies in its bodegas, where centuries of winemaking tradition unfold. Sherry, the iconic fortified wine, is deeply ingrained in the city's identity.

Here, you can explore the intricate bodega cellars, witness the ageing process, and indulge in tastings to savour the spectrum of flavours, from dry fino to rich oloroso. Beyond its viticulture, Jerez resonates with a vibrant cultural scene.

Flamenco, an integral part of its heritage, echoes through the streets, inviting all to feel the passionate rhythm of this emotive dance form.

The city's historic sites, like the Alcazar and the majestic Cathedral, stand as testaments to its regal past, weaving a narrative of Moorish and Christian influences. The allure of Jerez extends beyond its historical wealth. Its charming plazas, lively markets, and the equestrian ballet of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art paint a vivid picture of the city's diverse offerings.

The annual Feria del Caballo, a celebration of horses, embodies the city's exuberance and draws visitors from around the globe.

Jerez de la Frontera is a multifaceted gem, a cultural mosaic, inviting you to immerse yourself in its history, savour its wines, feel the pulse of flamenco, and embrace the essence of Andalusia.

Book in Advance

Best things to do in jerez de la frontera spain.

• Visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art : Witness stunning displays of horsemanship and traditional Spanish dressage performances.
• Explore the Jerez Cathedral: Marvel at the grandeur of this beautiful 17th-century cathedral, known for its impressive architecture and religious artworks.
• Tour the Alcazar of Jerez : Step back in time as you wander through the historic walls of this Moorish fortress, featuring beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
• Experience a sherry wine tour: Discover the rich history and production process of Jerez's famous sherry wines by visiting one of the renowned bodegas, such as Bodegas Tio Pepe or Bodegas Fundador.
• Attend a flamenco show: Immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms and captivating performances of traditional flamenco music and dance.
• Explore the Old Town: Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the architecture, shops, and lively atmosphere.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum : Learn about Jerez's ancient past through its collection of artefacts and archaeological findings.
• Discover the Andalusian Flamenco Center : Delve into the world of flamenco by visiting this interactive museum dedicated to the art form.
• Explore the Plaza del Arenal: Enjoy the lively ambience of Jerez's main square, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and a beautiful fountain.
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Experience a romantic and traditional way to explore the city as you ride through the streets in a horse-drawn carriage.
• Visit the Clock Museum : Discover an extensive collection of antique clocks, ranging from pocket watches to grandiose timepieces.
• Enjoy a horse show at Yeguada de la Cartuja: Witness a captivating equestrian performance showcasing the grace and strength of Andalusian horses.
• Wander through the Jerez Botanical Garden: Take a leisurely stroll in this peaceful oasis, home to a wide variety of plant species from around the world.
• Visit the Andalusian Flamenco Dance Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of flamenco dance through exhibits and interactive displays.
• Explore the Atalaya Watchtower: Climb to the top of this 13th-century tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
• Experience a bodega tour: Discover the art of winemaking by visiting the famous Tio Pepe bodega , tasting different wines, and learning about the unique sherry production process.
• Attend the Jerez Horse Fair: Experience the vibrant festivities of this traditional fair, featuring flamenco, horse parades, and lively celebrations.
• Visit the Jerez Zoo : Enjoy a family-friendly day out at the zoo, where you can see a variety of animals from around the world.
• Explore the Fundacion Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre: Discover the world of horsemanship through guided tours and equestrian shows.
• Relax in the Gardens of the Domecq Palace : Unwind in these beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring fountains, sculptures, and peaceful surroundings.

Discover the Art of Sherry Winemaking

Sherry wine bodega tours are popular for visitors to Jerez, a number of bodegas offering the perfect chance to explore the history of wine-making, and its production as well as the chance to try a glass or two from the very place it originated in.

Sherry produced in Jerez is exported all around the world and is made from palomino grapes growing on calcareous soil within a specific local bio-climate. It is then is left to age in oak barrels, where old sherry is mixed with new ones to create the various types of this famous tipple.

Among the best bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera include Domecq, Garvey, Harveys and Tio Pepe.  Another famous bodega is  Bodega Gonzalez Byass ,  where you will see an impressive iron bodega designed by Gustave Eiffel ( of Eiffel Tower fame ) plus numerous wine barrels signed by personalities such as Orson Welles and Winston Churchill.

The  sherry tours are extremely popular and offer a unique view of the sherry-making business from grape to bottle, you will enjoy a free glass of this fine local wine after the tour is over.

This is a great way to savour the true tradition of the sherry and brandy winemaking process within the beautiful surroundings of the bodegas.

Cathedral of San Salvador

The Cathedral was originally built as a Collegiate Church between 1695 and 1778. Due to the length of time, it took to build it, the overall layout was influenced by many well-known architects including Diego Moreno Meléndez, Rodrigo del Pozo, Diego Díaz and Torcuato Cayon de la Vega.

Built in the Baroque style it has five naves and a bell tower is well worth visiting, for further information and tickets check out the San Salvador website.

Royal Equestrian School in Jerez de la Frontera

The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation is known throughout the world due to it's renowned horse show.  This is where you can enjoy a memorable afternoon watching a unique exhibition of horsemanship.

The school is located within the grounds of the Palacio Duque de Abrantes which in itself is worth exploring.

For further information and tickets: https://www.realescuela.org/

Palacio Duque de Abrantes

There are a number of stunning historic palaces in Jerez but the  Palacio Duque de Abrantes, is one of the best. It is located in the heart of Jerez and is also the home of the Royal Equestrian School.

It was designed by Charles Garnier whose credits include the Paris Opera and Monte Carlo Casino, it is considered as a benchmark for nineteenth-century Andalusian palace architecture.

It features two facades, reception rooms, stained glass windows, carved fireplaces, bronze sculptures and beautiful gardens with exotic plants and a large fountain.

Jerez Race Track

The Jerez race track opened in 1985 and is now home to the Spanish Moto-GP,  held at the end of April and beginning of May each year.

The first-ever Motorcycle Grand Prix event took place here in 1987 and the Spanish Formula-1 Grand Prix racing was held from 1986 to 1991 before the race was eventually moved to Catalonia.

For further information and entrance tickets: http://www.circuitodejerez.com/

The Gastronomy of Jerez

Jerez offers an extensive selection of eateries from typical Spanish tapas bars to fine dining restaurants.

Local specialities include  “La Perdiz estofada” (casserole of partridge), “revuelto de esparragos trigueros ” (scrambled eggs with fresh asparagus), “aceitunas alinadas” (marinated olives),  “Caldereta de cordero” (lamb casserole), “Guiso de rabo de toro “(oxtail stew), “Wild game, Esparragal Trigueros” (grilled asparagus), amongst others.

Guided Tapas Tour

Going on a guided tapas tour in Jerez is like embarking on a tasty treasure hunt!

Imagine having a knowledgeable guide leading you through the city's winding streets, uncovering the hidden gems of the local food scene.

These tours are like food adventures where you get to try a whole bunch of tapas, from familiar favourites to exciting new flavours you've never even heard of before.

But it's not just about stuffing your face with delicious bites (although that's definitely a perk!). It's also a chance to learn about the fascinating history of tapas and how they became a beloved part of Spanish culture. Your guide will share stories about the mouthwatering dishes, their ingredients, and the secrets behind their preparation. You'll even get to visit traditional taverns where locals have been enjoying tapas for generations.

The best part? You won't be alone on this culinary journey. You'll meet other food-loving explorers who share your passion for great flavours.

Together, you'll embark on a flavour-filled adventure, discovering new tastes and making lifelong memories.

So get ready to eat, laugh, and taste the incredible tapas scene in Jerez. It's a foodie experience you won't want to miss!

Recommended Hotels In Jerez

Hotel Jerez & Spa : A luxurious option in the heart of Jerez, this hotel offers a blend of traditional Andalusian charm and modern comfort. With a spa, outdoor pool, and elegant rooms, it's an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation.

Hotel Exe Guadalete : Positioned along the Guadalete River, this hotel boasts scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Its spacious rooms, outdoor pool, and proximity to Jerez's historic center make it a popular choice for a pleasant stay.

Hipotels Sherry Park : Situated in a quiet area, this modern hotel offers a peaceful setting while being close to Jerez's landmarks. With well-appointed rooms, lush gardens, and a pool, it provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links included in the above content may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Rest assured, we only recommend products and services that we personally use or have used and are happy to recommend. Any commission we earn helps toward the site's running costs. 

Travel Smarter -  Not Harder

Download free e-guides and travel tips.

Start your Journey today and get access to exclusive FREE content.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

• WHY VISIT SPAIN?
• TRAVELLING TO SPAIN
• SPAIN ON A BUDGET
• TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS – ETIAS
• SPAIN ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
• SPANISH CUISINE
• SPANISH FOOD
• HOLIDAY IDEAS
• PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
• TOURISM BOARDS
• AIRPORT GUIDE
• DRIVING IN SPAIN
• WEATHER IN SPAIN
• FREE WEB CAMS
• BEST BEACHES SPAIN
• FESTIVALS & FIESTAS
• MUSEUMS IN SPAIN
• CAMPING IN SPAIN
• MARINAS IN SPAIN
• SKIING IN SPAIN
• WATER PARKS
• UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES
• 80 BEST ATTRACTIONS
• 71 BEST PLACES TO VISIT
• REGIONS OF SPAIN
• COSTA DEL SOL
• CANARY ISLANDS
• SAN SEBASTIAN
• Complete List:
• SAGRADA FAMILIA BARCELONA
• BARCELONA FC STADIUM TOUR
• BARCELONA FLAMENCO SHOW
• SEVILLE FLAMENCO SHOW
• SEVILLE CATHEDRAL
• GAUDI`S CASA BATLLO
• THE ALHAMBRA GRANADA
• SANTIAGO CATHEDRAL
• CITY OF ARTS & SCIENCE VALENCIA
• MOSQUE-CATHEDRAL CORDOBA
• CAMINITO DEL REY
• PRADO MUSEUM MADRID
• REINA SOFIA ART MUSEUM
• SCUBA DIVING
• BEST TAPAS TOURS
• BEST WINE TASTING TOURS
• TOUR GUIDES
• HOTELS IN SPAIN
• LUXURY HOTELS
• LUXURY BEACH HOTELS
• HOLIDAY RENTALS
• PARADOR HOTELS
• CHEAP FLIGHTS
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• FREE TRAVEL BROCHURES
• WIN FREE HOLIDAYS

• Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez - Sherry, Horses, and Flamenco

By Tina Andlaw

Located inland, 20 km from Sanlúcar, Jerez holds worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production. The word Jerez is derived from Arabic and has now become synonymous with the English word ‘sherry’. The city is equally famous for its fine horses as well as Flamenco music and dance.

Golf courses in Jerez are challenging yet fun for even the least experienced of golfers.

There are bus services from Jerez de la Frontera ato Seville and Cadiz and other towns and villages in the surrounding province of Cadiz.

Jerez de la Frontera is one of Andalucia’s most delightful small cities. Rich in culture and gastronomy, the Cadiz town is famous for sherry, horses and flamenco.

Jerez de la Frontera is one of the most delightful airports in Spain - small and picturesque. The city itself is also compact and pretty, and nearby you will find the "sherry triangle", two other… More →

Book your direct and hassle-free transfer direct from Málaga Airport to your hotel or holiday-rental and return. Choose from minibus to private car with driver.

The town dates back to Moorish times and possesses a charming old town, casco antiguo , with beautiful palm lined squares. The 11th century Moorish fortress, or Alcazaba, has been partially restored. Of special interest is its church, originally built by the Arabs as a mosque. The Sacristy of the Cathedral del Salvador is home to a lovely painting by Zurbarán, La Virgen Niña. Today the city of Jerez has a remarkably aristocratic air with wide streets, squares and magnificent rows of jacaranda trees during spring.

The sherry production houses are located, surprisingly, in the centre of the town of Jerez and are generally associated with an element of snobbery and aristocratic pride even to this day.

The Spanish word bodega means "cellar", but its generic meaning is "wine manufacturer". Visitors take guided tours of the many Jerez bodegas, such as Gonzalez Byass, Pedro Domecq and Sandeman. British winemakers have been active here for centuries, which is why many of the names have an Anglo-Saxon ring to them. Tours of the cellars take place on week days, followed by sampling of the various types of wine produced.

Jerez is famous for its long - standing Flamenco tradition, making it an excellent place to watch this great art . The Flamenco festival of Jerez (traditionally last week in Feb and fist week in March) is one of the most important in the world, with two weeks of phenomenal music and dance from internationally renowned performers

Flamenco dancing is centred around the Barrio de Santiago which faces the cathedral. On the Plaza de San Juan, the Andalucian Flamenco Foundation can be found within a stylish eighteenth century mansion, the Palacio de Pemartín. Here you can learn something of this Andalucian dance form and visit the museum with audiovisual presentations. Flamenco can also be seen at Bar Arco de Santiago, Calle Barreras, 3 or La Taberna Flamenca, Angostillo de Santiago, 3, Jerez de la Frontera.

Jerez Tourist Information Office is located at Alameda Cristina - Edificio Los Claustros - 11403 Jerez. Tel. 956 324 47. The office is open from Monday to Friday, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and from 5:00 pm.

Destinations

• Sherry Towns

Search Hotels in Jerez

Our Adventure Journal

31 Things to Do in Jerez de la Frontera

Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Kelly

Jerez de la Frontera , located in Southern Spain, is known for its sherry, horses, and and flamenco ! If you’re planning to visit Andalucía, you absolutely must visit Jerez de la Frontera. The city is filled with rich cultural heritage. It’s known as the birthplace of sherry wine, and people travel all over the country to see the city’s famous dancing horses.

I used to live in the nearby city of Cadiz, and so I visited Jerez de la Frontera on several occasions. I have two really good friends that live there, and they made sure that I visited the Bodega Tio Pepe to try the sherry. When I think of Jerez de la Frontera, I personally think of dusty bottles of aged sherry!

I loved learning all about sherry production and visiting the cathedral. In this post, I’m sharing my best tips for visiting Jerez de la Frontera !

About Jerez de la Frontera

Before I share my favorite things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, it’s important to learn a little background about the city.

The word jerez  translates directly to sherry in English. Thus, Jerez de la Frontera is known as Sherry of the Frontier. Jerez de la Frontera is part of Spain’s famous sherry triangle. The city is actually known as the capital of this wine region ! If you like to drink wine, that’s reason enough to visit Jerez. There are over 100 sherry bodegas !

Jerez de la Frontera is also well-known for its horses and equestrian performances . The Andalusian horses are strictly bred as Pura Raza Española.  The horses are known for being slender, elegant, and muscular. They typically have a light grey color. Jerez de la Frontera is home to the famous riding school  Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre.  The school regularly puts on performances called Cómo Bailan los Caballos Andaluces , or How the Andalusian Horses Dance .

In terms of history, there’s evidence that the city was inhabited by the Phoenicians even before the Romans arrived. When the Moors came to the city, they named it Xerix. The city was under Muslim rule from the 8th century to the 12th century. In 1264, the city was captured by King Alfonso X of Castile.

Best Things to Do

We’ve put together our top 33 things to do in Jerez de la Frontera. I have family friends that live in the city, and I’ve personally had the opportunity to visit Jerez de la Frontera on several occasions. It’s a beautiful city!

Map of Things to Do in Jerez de la Frontera

Feel free to use the map below to help you plan your trip!

1. Bodega Tío Pepe

Address: C. Manuel María González, 12, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Spain

Jerez de la Frontera is the capital of sherry wine, and Bodega Tío Pepe is one of the most famous sherry production venues in the city. They have been producing wine for over 180 years.

My family friends brought me to Bodega Tío Pepe during my first visit to Jerez. You can reserve a tour of the bodega in either English, Spanish, or German. My favorite part of the tour was seeing the cellars with barrels covered in years of dust. The tour also includes two wine tastings. If you’d like to have more of a tasting (visita de cata), you can choose between 5 wine tastings or 9 wine tastings. 

Bodega Tío Pepe is located right in the historic center of Jerez, so it’s conveniently located to other attractions within the city. I definitely recommend that you visit this bodega!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

2. Alcázar de Jerez

The Alcázar de Jerez is a former Moorish alcázar (fortress or palace) and is currently a beautiful park. It’s believed that the alcázar was built in the 11th century. You’ll be able to see the gardens and Arab baths. While you’re there, also check out the  camara obscura . Using mirrors and lenses, you’ll be able to see a live depiction of many elements of the city of Jerez. It’s only a small price on top of your admission ticket, and it’s definitely a unique experience! You can visit the alcázar and the cathedral when you book a guided walking tour . 

3. Casco Antiguo (Old Town)

While you’re in Jerez de la Frontera, you’ll want to be sure to walk around the  casco antiguo.  You’ll see the alcázar and the cathedral, but it’s worth it to just wander around and check out various shops and restaurants. 

4.  Catedral de Jerez

The Catedral de Jerez is the most prominent cathedral in the city. It was built in the 17th century, and it was declared a national historic site ( Bien de Interés Cultural ) in 1931. The cathedral is a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles. It was built over the Great Mosque of Jerez and the previous Church of El Salvador. You can visit the church and museum for a small fee, and visits are free on Sundays. For a small fee, you can climb the bell tower for an excellent view of the city.

5. Take a Walking Tour

You can book a guided walking tour that focuses on the history and art of the city . This two-hour tour will teach you all about the many cultures that helped to shape the city of Jerez. 

Don’t forget to check out all our posts about destinations in Spain ! 

6. Book a Food Tour

One of the best ways to get to know a city is through its food! You can book a tapas food tour that will guide you through some of the city’s best tapas restaurants. With this tour, you’ll get to have several tapas and several accompanying drinks. 

7. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art 

The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art is known around the world for its spectacular horse shows. The shows are considered the ballet of horses. Their signature show is called “How the Andalusian Horses Dance”. 

8. Museum of Equestrian Art and the Carriage Museum

While you’re at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, you can also visit the Museum of Equestrian Art and Carriage Museum. If you’re interested in showmanship and equestrian art, it’s definitely worth a visit. The Carriage Museum (Museo de Enganche) is filled with beautiful historic carriages.

9. Visit Several Bodegas

Because Jerez de la Frontera is known for sherry, it’s worth visiting several bodegas. (As we mentioned above, we really loved Bodega Tio Pepe!)

Some other bodegas to consider visiting include:

• Bodegas Tradición:  Bodegas Tradición serves excellent wines and brandy. At the time of this writing, a visit costs 50 euros and includes tastings, a guided tour, and a tour of the numerous historic paintings. 
• Bodegas Lustau: Bodegas Lustau is a beautiful property that provides tastings in English. The full tasting includes approximately 8 wines, and the standard tasting includes approximately 6 wines.
• Bodegas Fundador: Founded in 1730, this is the oldest bodega in Jerez de la Frontera. You can visit the bodega for a wine tasting, visit their gorgeous gardens, and also stay to dine at their restaurant. 

10. Museo Arqueológico Municipal

The Museo Arqueológico Municipal had displays of archaeological artifacts. The main building dates back to the 18th century, and the large museum complex has several pretty patios. The museum is closed in the late afternoon, Sundays, and Mondays. At the time of this writing, admission was 5 euros for a standard adult ticket.

11. Centro Andaluz de Flamenco

The Centro Andaluz de Flamenco is open free-of-charge for unguided visits. This is the place to learn all about flamenco and its history. The center is also located in a beautiful 18th century mansion.

12. Watch a Flamenco Show

After you’ve learned about flamenco as an art form, it’s definitely a lot of fun to watch a flamenco show. We recommend that you go to Puro Arte Tablao Flamenco Jerez. 

13. Plaza del Mamelón

Plaza del Mamelón is one of the most elegant plazas in Jerez. The plaza contains a beautiful fountain, and lots of important buildings.

14. Calle Larga 

One of the principal streets in Jerez de la Frontera is Calle Larga. Calle Larga is filled with tons of restaurants, shops, and points of interest.

15. Iglesia de San Miguel

The Iglesia de San Miguel is another beautiful cathedral in Jerez de la Frontera. The church was built in the 15th century and contains 3 naves. It was built in the Gothic style.

16. Statue of Lola Flores

Lola Flores was a celebrated flamenco dancer. The statue is very large, and it’s pretty cool to see her in a classic flamenco pose.

17. Real Convento de Santo Domingo

The Real Convento de Santo Domingo was constructed in 1266. It’s another example of historic architecture within the city. 

18. Circuito de Jerez

The Circuito de Jerez is a racing track. The circuit also has guided visits. At the moment, the Museo del Motor is closed. If you enjoy motor races, it’s a good idea to check out the Circuito de Jerez.

19. Palacio del Virrey Laserna

The Palacio del Virrey Laserna is located in Jerez’s historic center. The palace has been handed down through generations of families starting from the 13th century. The palace is open Tuesday through Saturday.

20. Plaza de la Asunción

The Plaza de la Asunción is filled with historic buildings that blend multiple architectural styles. There’s no church in the square, but you’ll find the old city hall and a large sculpted pillar.

21. Plaza del Arenal

The Plaza del Arenal is a gathering place for festivals and cultural events. There’s a monument in the center honoring Miguel Primo de Rivera (a dictator who led a coup to overthrow Spain’s previous parliament).

22. Iglesia de San Mateo

This church was constructed in the 15th century and has a Gothic style. Jerez de la Frontera is filled with many historic buildings, and it’s very interesting to see them all as you walk through the city.

23. Attend the Annual Horse Festival

The Feria del Caballo (Annual Horse Festival), is an internationally-recognized event. If you are able to visit Jerez whenever you’d like, it’s definitely a good idea to attend one of the city’s famous festivals. The Feria del Caballo occurs each May. You’ll be able to see parades of horses, dancing horses, polo, carriage riding, and more. During the evening, there’s lots of live music, food booths, and sherry sampling. The fairground ( el recinto ) will be filled with lots of  casetas (booths).

24. Attend the Annual Festival Flamenco de Jerez

Each year, the city of Jerez de la Frontera hosts an annual flamenco festival. There will be flamenco shows throughout the city and streets, with the main venue being the Villamarta Theatre. The festival typically occurs during February/March.

25. Attend the Sherry Festival

As you can tell, Jerez is home to several important festivals. The Sherry Festival typically occurs on the first Saturday in September (during the traditional grape harvest). 

26. Visit the Tabanacos

Tabanacos are known for serving tapas. Instead of being called taperías , the restaurants are called tabanacos because they are housed in sherry bars. You can book a tabanaco tour, which will take you to several of the most popular tabanacos among locals.

27. Statue of Manuel María González

While you’re in the city, also be sure to see the statue of Manuel María González. Manuel was the owner of one of the earliest bodegas, which became the Bodega Tío Pepe. The statue depicts him standing next to a barrel.

28.  Hammam Andalusí Arabic Baths

If you ever wanted to enjoy Arab baths, you can head to Hammam Andalusí Arabic Baths. Depending on the package you book, you can enjoy the baths, steam room, massage, and more. The facility has a beautiful terrace overlooking the city, as well as a tea house.

29. Palace of Time (Clock Museum)

The Palace of Time is a museum that features numerous antique clocks and watches. The museum has numerous pieces that date back hundreds of years. There’s also a beautiful garden at the museum. There are guided tours available in English.

30. Mercado Central de Abastos

The Mercado Central de Abastos is the primary market in Jerez de la Frontera. The market has 115 vendors that are all located within the building that was constructed in 1885.

31. Monasterio de la Cartuja de Santa María de la Defensión

The Monasterio de la Cartuja is one of the most beautiful buildings in Jerez. It was constructed in the 17th century. 

How to Get There

Jerez de la Frontera is located in Southern Spain, in what is called the region of Andalucía.

Jerez de la Frontera is about 100 kilometers (62 miels) from Seville, and about 35 kilometers (21 miles) from Cadiz. 

There is an airport in Jerez de la Frontera, with airport code XRY. I have flown into this airport several times via regional destinations, and I’ve found it to be an easy airport to navigate. 

The city is easily reached by train. The train station in Jerez de la Frontera serves many cities in Andalucía. The train station also has a stop at the airport. If you arrive by plane, you can easily take the train from the airport into the city proper. 

Where to Stay

Jerez de la Frontera is a popular destination in Southern Spain. We recommend that you book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during one of the city’s famous festivals.

Here’s a few hotels to consider for your trip:

• Casa Palacio Maria Luisa : This 5-star hotel is the most luxurious hotel in Jerez de la Frontera. The palatial residence was home to the elite families of Jerez. Today, you can stay there yourself! The hotel has an outdoor pool and a restaurant. 
• Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe: If you’re traveling to Jerez for the sherry, nothing beats staying at a bodega! The rooms are clean and airy. The outdoor swimming pool has a beautiful view.
• Palacio del Virrey Laserna: When you stay at this hotel, you’ll be staying at a historic residence. This elegant hotel has a swimming pool and elaborately-decorated rooms.
• Casa Palacio Jerezana: Located in the city’s center, this bed and breakfast is also extremely elegant. When you stay here, there’s a free breakfast buffet at Bodega Casa del Marqués and a free drink.

Jerez de la Frontera is one of the most culturally-rich cities in Andalusia. The city has everything that Southern Spain is known for: sherry, flamenco, and Andalusian horses. For these reasons, Jerez de la Frontera is absolutely worth visiting! Jerez de la Frontera makes for an easy day trip from major cities such as Cadiz and Seville, so there’s no reason not to add it to your list.

When I first visited Jerez de la Frontera, my favorite aspects of the city were the cathedral and the bodegas. I especially enjoyed the tour at Bodega Tío Pepe.

I hope this post inspires you to add Jerez de la Frontera to your itinerary!

Disclaimer :  We always strive for content accuracy.   Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Jerez: what to see, plus the best music, hotels, restaurants and tapas bars

Sherry, flamenco, tapas and horses … Is there anywhere more quintessentially Spanish than Jerez de la Frontera in Andalucía? With its flamenco festival kicking off this weekend, Sorrel Downer guides us through the merriment

S pain’s gastronomic maridaje – the marriage of food and wine – is a definite threesome in Jerez de la Frontera, where all life is fuelled by sherry and tapas, but marches to a flamenco beat. The annual flamenco festival is its peak – not only for larger ticketed events, but also for free performances in the peñas ( social clubs), tabancos (old-style bars), and late at night in the plazas. In fact, all the city’s many festivals and ferias are accompanied by a flurry of flamenco activity – it’s just that, rather frustratingly, it’s not easy to sweep in and locate it.

Where to hear flamenco

Several of the tabancos actually have regular, scheduled events (and flyers for one-offs elsewhere). Best-known, and popular with locals and tourists, is Tabanco el Pasaje (C/Santa María 8) where guitarist and singer face the cramped bustle from Thursdays to Sundays. Another good option is Tabanco el Guitarrón de San Pedro (C/Bizcocheros 16) with performances on Saturday afternoons, participation flamenco on Sunday nights and, amazingly given the tight space, a cadre (guitars, singing and dancing) on Thursday nights. As Mireia Dot Rodriguez, the tabanco’s co-owner, points out: “Flamenco is something you feel on your skin, in your senses, not watch from a distance.” So that’s all right.

The peñas are home base for many of today’s flamenco greats, and it’s worth passing one of the bigger ones over the weekend to see if it’s open. Try Centro Cultural Don Antonio Chacón (C/Salas 2) or Peña Flamenca Los Cernícalos (C/de Sancho Vizcaíno 25) in the Gypsy barrio of San Miguel.

The many cobbled alleys, plazas, baroque churches and bars make exploring old Jerez a joy, and well-positioned street maps displaying recommended routes keep it easy. However, Plaza del Arenal (home to the tourist information office) is a useful reference point. For general ambling, head north-west from here to the old barrio of Santiago and south-west to San Miguel. Just to the south, there’s the Alcazar de Jerez , once a frontier of the Islamic kingdom, its thick city walls built to keep the Christians out. They didn’t and, in 1264, the overlay of monasteries, palaces and churches began. This fortress, home to caliphs then Christian governors, its mosque converted into a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, says it all.

Or stroll 20 minutes north to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art ( realescuela.org , adults €21, children €13) in which dancing horses put on an impressive show every Tuesday and Thursday (plus Fridays in August and September). You don’t have to be horsey to appreciate the history, skill, architecture and hats, although it helps. Or watch men controlling powerful machines down at the Circuito de Jerez ( circuitodejerez.com ). The city is World Capital of Motorcycling 2015.

Where to eat and drink

A sherry cooking class with the city’s top chef, Javier Muñoz of La Carboná (C/San Francisco de Paula 2, lacarbona.com ), combines three highlights in one. Obviously, you start at a bodega (the gem that is Díez Mérito , C/Diego Fernández Herrera 4), then nose around the impressive fish stalls of Mercado de Abastos , before seeing alchemy at work back at the restaurant and savouring the results – accompanied by sherry, of course. It costs €65 a head, with a minimum of four people, on Wednesdays; available in English (+34 956 328 780, surways.com ).

Want to get straight in to the sherry? Avoid the crowds by visiting Lustau (C/Arcos 53, +34 956 341 597, lustau.es ), which not only produces some of the world’s best, including fino La Ina and oloroso Emperatriz Eugenia, but represents a few independent back-room winemakers in its glorious Almacenista range.

Tabancos, once basic stores selling wine from the barrel, and frequented by old men, have been resurrected by nostalgic enthusiasts, their old paraphernalia, tiles, wooden bars and barrels, green-and-mustard paint intact. All serve phenomenally good wine – specifically sherry – for €1; several, including Tabanco el Guitarrón (as before) stock a wide variety, including real rarities. Some offer more sophisticated tapas, but most, like Tabanco San Pablo (C/San Pablo 12, tabancosanpablo.es ), champion the old favourites: tortilla, meatballs, stews, clams and serranitos (hot pork and serrano ham rolls). You’ll find the densest concentration in a compact area east from Calle Larga to Barrio San Miguel, none more than a short stroll apart. Perfect dining, paseo style. Ask for a Ruta de los Tabancos map in participating bars.

Jerez’s unofficial “golden mile of gastronomy” doglegs through three plazas (Plateros, glorious Asunción, and shady Yerba) before continuing eastwards along Calle Consistorio. Table with umbrella? Glass of wine? View of old church? Tick, tick, tick. Food is all around. Cruz Blanca ( restaurantelacruzblanca.com ) opposite the Town Hall, offering upmarket traditional fare (black rice with baby squid and prawns, Iberian pork, plenty of asparagus), and Albores , next door, where the Madrileño chef does clever things to local produce using oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sauces, are worth the lengthy queues.

One night only? Unless it’s a Tuesday, when it’s shut, go for the sherry pairing menu at the Andaluz-chic, bodega-style La Carboná (as before). Javier Muñoz’s combinations – cooked in sherry, paired with sherry – are an inspiring revelation: a cheese ice-cream with fino, beef with oloroso, artichokes with amontillado ... who knew?

Where to stay

Old, interesting and lovely without being twee applies equally to Jerez’s historic heart and the well-loved La Fonda Barranco (+34 956 332 141, lafondabarranco.com ) tucked away inside it, close to the cathedral: restored, boutique, all fresh white and wooden beams, with Moorish lanterns, arches and central patio and breakfasts served on the roof terrace. An equally lovely former home, the aptly named Casa Grande (+34 956 34 50 70, hotelcasagrande.eu ), offers calm, airy elegance; rooms with beautiful tiled floors above a large central patio, a huge roof terrace, and great hospitality in a central location. Both places have rooms from €60 in low season, though prices soar during festivals.

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as the owner of vineyards with a gracious country house, you can live the dream at Casa Viña de Alcántara (low-season rates from €160, + 34 956 39 30 10, vinadealcantara.com ). This sweet and small hotel, the property of one of the Gonzalez-Byass sherry dynasty, is set in tree-filled grounds (with a swimming pool) designed for wafting through or sketching in. Service is provided by attentive staff, and dinner is provided on request, although the bright lights of Jerez are just a 15-minute drive away.

The 19th-century Palacio Garvey (rooms from €60, +34 956 32 67 00, hotelpalaciogarvey.com ) is the former home of the Garvey winemakers, in Jerez, overlooking what is arguably its loveliest square: Plaza de Rafael Rivero. While some of the furnishings are tired, the art’s a bit odd, and leatherette and astroturf are never good, the building is grand and the large rooms good value. The Semana Santa parades pass under the floor-to-ceiling windows of rooms one and two.

• Andalucia holidays
• Food and drink
• Spain holidays
• Europe holidays
• Spanish food and drink

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

Turismo Jerez

Eventos jerez 2024, spanish motorcycle grand prix, european horse day, world tourism day · jerez, what´s on jerez, wine tourism, wellness and shopping, plan your visit, festivities and events.

JEREZ IN A WEEK

FLAMENCO ALL YEAR ROUND

DOWNLOAD APP TURISMO JEREZ

JEREZ A CITY OF CINEMA

JEREZ WITH CHILDREN

HOLD YOUR EVENT IN JEREZ

JEREZ FOR SQUARE TO SQUARE

LOLA FLORES ROUTES

Integrated Tourist Information System

Oficina Municipal de Turismo de Jerez de la Frontera

Edificio Los Arcos, Plaza del Arenal, s/n, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera

Te l éfono: 956 14 98 63

[email protected]

About Cookies

This website uses cookies. Those have two functions: On the one hand they are providing basic functionality for this website. On the other hand they allow us to improve our content for you by saving and analyzing anonymized user data. You can redraw your consent to using these cookies at any time. Find more information regarding cookies on our Data Protection Declaration and regarding us on the Imprint .

These cookies are needed for a smooth operation of our website.

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Jerez de la Frontera, from watching the famous equine ballets to touring its characterful sherry bars. Read on for our pick of the 20 must-visit attractions in this beautiful Andalusian city.

One of Jerez’s key architectural attractions , the Alcazar dates from the 11th and 12th centuries, during the city’s period under Moorish rule. Still with us today are the defensive walls and watchtowers, the in-house mosque and the buildings that housed the Arabic baths.

2. Cathedral

Just a two-minute walk from the Alcazar is Jerez’s other most notable building. Although constructed between 1695 and 1778, the San Salvador cathedral was only designated the seat of a bishop in 1980. Its bell tower stands apart from the main structure, on the site of an earlier church.

3. Dancing Horses

5. Bodegas Tradición

Art Gallery, Winery

Started twenty years ago by a member of one of Jerez’s oldest and most distinguished sherry dynasties, Bodegas Tradición specialises in producing wines and sherries in their purest state ( en rama ). It’s also home to one of Andalusia’s most notable private art collections.

One of Jerez’s most successful sherry producers , Lustau was founded in 1896 by an amateur wine maker, who was joined by his son-in-law Emilio Lustau in the 1940s. The brand has since become instantly recognisable by its smooth-contoured black bottles. Tours and tastings run several times a week.

7. Bullring

Jerez’s somewhat odd-looking plaza de toros dates from 1840 and required substantial reconstruction after fires in 1860 and 1891. To the right of the main entrance, a series of tiles commemorate the greatest bulls to have been fought and killed here since the ring opened.

FERIA DEL CABALLO

Every May, Jerez celebrates the Feria del Caballo ( Horse Fair ), one of Andalusia’s most charming and inclusive ferias . Marquees ( casetas ) for dancing, eating and drinking are set out on a beautiful sanded fairground on the edge of the city and are the focal point of seven days’ worth of joyful partying.

8. Tabanco El Pasaje

Bar, Spanish

Jerez’s local bars specialise in sherry and local wines and are called tabancos . One of the oldest and best is Tabanco El Pasaje : located in the heart of the old town, it also stages live flamenco shows in its intimate interior. As you eat and drink, your bill is written on the bar in chalk.

9. Tabanco San Pablo

Since it served its first chilled glasses of fino (dry white sherry) in 1934, Tabanco San Pablo has become a local institution. It’s located on a bar-lined alleyway just off Plaza del Arenal, which fills up with locals enjoying copas at the weekends. Blend in amongst them for a typically Jerezano experience.

PLAZA DE LA YEBRA

One of the old town ’s prettiest squares is the leafy, romantic Plaza de la Yebra – a great place for a long lunch or early-evening copa . This lovely space is also home to one of the city’s most popular tapas joints, La Cruz Blanca , which specialises in traditional Andalusian cuisine.

10. Iglesia Dionisio

On the next square down from Plaza de la Yebra, you’ll find one of Jerez’s most attractive churches. The Iglesia Dionisio combines a Gothic-Mudejar exterior dating from the 15th century, an 18th century Baroque interior and a bell tower built as a lookout post in the mid-1400s.

11. Antiguo Cabildo

Opposite the Iglesia San Dionisio is Jerez’s beautiful old town hall building, or Antiguo Cabildo . Designed by two leading local architects and built in 1575, it’s fronted by an intricate Renaissance facade with statues of Hercules and Julius Caesar guarding the main entrance.

12. Las Cuadras

Staying on Plaza de la Ascunción, this part of the old town also boasts one of Jerez’s best tapas bars. Tucked away in one corner of the square, Las Cuadras ’ interior walls are decorated with pieces of old farming equipment, which you can admire as you enjoy a sherry and one of the frequent live flamenco shows.

13. Alameda Vieja

Separating the mighty Alcazar from the Tio Pepe winery is the Alameda Vieja, one of Jerez’s most attractive parks . Its leafy central boulevard runs parallel to the Moorish fortress walls and leads up to a bandstand where live music is performed in the summer.

14. Botanical Gardens

Botanical Garden, Zoo

Developed from the end of the 19th century and sometimes called the El Tempul Park, Jerez’s botanical gardens make for a great family day out. They’re located in the flamenco barrio of Santiago, boast over 1,000 species of shrubs, plants and flowers and house a great little zoo.

PLAZA DEL ARENAL

The old town’s principal square is the stately Plaza del Arenal. Surrounded by bars and cafés with outside terraces, this is a great spot for breakfast or early-evening drinks. At the plaza’s centre, colourful flowerbeds surround a statue of Miguel Primo de Rivera, Jerez-born prime minister of Spain from 1923 to 1930.

15. Tabanco Plateros

This popular sherry joint is decorated in a contemporary style, providing a refreshing contrast to the old-school ambience of the city’s other tabancos . Located on a pretty and lively square in the old town, it offers a comprehensive selection of Jerezano tipples to enjoy on site or to take away.

16. Andalusian Centre of Flamenco

Given that many aficionados claim that Jerez is the true birthplace of flamenco, don’t leave the city without visiting the Andalusian Centre of Flamenco . Housed in a beautiful 15th century mansion, its informative exhibits look at influential local artists and the flamenco traditions of Jerez and Andalusia.

FERIA DE LA VENDIMIA

At the beginning of September, Jerez celebrates the second of its two annual festivals. The Feria de la Vendimia marks the beginning of the grape harvest season – a crucial time of year for the city’s sherry producers. It starts properly on the 8th with a grape-treading ceremony outside the cathedral.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

The Best Independent Bookstores in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Bars & Cafes

The top bars in tarifa, spain.

The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Architecture

The most beautiful buildings in tarifa, spain.

See & Do

Must-visit attractions in ronda, spain.

The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Tarifa, Spain

The Best Roman Ruins in Andalusia

The Most Beautiful Buildings in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

The Best Things to Do and See in Andalusia, Spain

The Top Art Galleries to Visit in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

The Best Cafés in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

The Top Things to See and Do in Tarifa, Spain

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1000185672
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

25 Things You Absolutely Need To Do in Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz

Updated: Jul 13, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend.

The first thing that comes to many people's minds when they hear the name Jerez is sherry, since it's where the drink originates from. Sherry is actually the English form of Jerez , which was something that I had no idea about until I visited the city. In fact Jerez, along with El Puerto de Santa María and Sanlúcar de Barrameda , make up the famous Sherry Triangle . But the city is also known for being the birthplace of flamenco, as well as producing dancing horses and being home to one of the world's most prestigious classical riding academies - Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre . If you visit the city, you'll soon learn that there are a lot of things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, especially if you love exploring places off the beaten path.

The origins of the city are somewhat obscure, but there are archaeological remains proving that the area was inhabited before the Romans arrived. By the 11th century it started to become an important city under the rule of the Moors, and was later reconquered by the Christians in the 13th century, when it was incorporated into the Kingdom of Castile . Jerez is a city rich in history, which is just begging to be explored, and really should be on anyone's list of places to visit in southern Spain. Not convinced yet? Here are my top recommendations for the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera.

Table of Contents

25 Things To Do in Jer ez de la Frontera

Where To Eat in Jerez de la Frontera

25 things to do in jerez de la frontera, 1. visit the manuel maría gonzález statue.

Manuel María González is synonymous with the city of Jerez de la Frontera. He was the founder of the González Byass sherry bodegas , which is now world famous and the largest sherry producer in the world. To mark his importance to Jerez, there's a lovely statue of him next to a barrel of Tío Pepe, standing between the bodegas and the cathedral, which is handy if you're doing a Jerez sightseeing tour.

2. Tour Bodegas Tío Pepe

If you're looking to go on a sherry tour in Jerez, Bodegas Tío Pepe is an absolute must. We joined them on their Uncle Pepe Tour , which was a really informative English speaking guided tour , taking us through cobbled streets, courtyards, and ending with a little bit of sherry tasting. Tío Pepe is part of the González Byass brand, which took me longer than it should have to realize. Visiting the bodegas is one of the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, and if you're feeling particularly keen for some sherry tasting, you can upgrade your ticket to include even more drinks and tapas too! If you only have one day in Jerez, I would highly recommend heading to this bodegas and learning about the sherry culture in the region.

3. Walk Along Ciegos Street

Ciegos Street is considered to be one of the most beautiful streets in Spain, and I also came across it in a few lists of the world's most beautiful streets as well. Once an active street in Jerez, it was absorbed by Bodegas Tío Pepe and is now a highlight on their guided tours because of the grapevines that have grown to create a roof over the street. So, if you want to get that all important Instagrammable photo, you'll need to join one of their tours first!

4. Alcázar de Jerez

Located directly next to Bodegas Tío Pepe is another key point of interest in Jerez - the Alcázar de Jerez . This formidable castle dates back to the 11th century when the area was under Islamic rule during the Almohad dynasty, and was later taken over by the Christians during the reconquest of Andalusia. Today, you can explore the grounds of the castle, which still show the remains of Islamic influence, and visit the camera obscura for some spectacular city views. The camera obscura is one of the more unique things to do in Jerez , so it shouldn't be missed!

5. Catedral de Jerez

One of the top things to do in Jerez de la Frontera is to visit the Catedral de Jerez . Despite it looking medieval, it was actually built in the 17th century and has a bell tower with parts dating back to the 15th century. It was only declared a cathedral in 1980, but it was still one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The view from the ground is very impressive, but the view of the cathedral from the roof of the Arab Baths is even more breathtaking, especially at sunset.

6. Relax at Hammam Andalusí Arabic Baths

A very unique thing to do in Jerez is to relax in the Hammam Andalusí Arabic Baths , which are ideally located across the road from the cathedral. The baths are made up of three pools, each with different temperatures, which you're supposed to alternate between before heading to the steam room. This technique actually comes from the Romans, but was perfected by the Arabs who added more warmth to the atmosphere. Visiting southern Spain wouldn't be complete without taking part in this historic tradition. We visited after a long day of exploring Jerez on foot, and finished our time in the pools off with a calming massage and some Arabic tea. Make sure you add this to your itinerary of southern Spain - it was one of my favourite things to do in Jerez de la Frontera and I would definitely go back.

7. Museo Arqueológico Municipal

If you're interested in learning more about the history of Jerez de la Frontera, you can find the Museo Arqueológico Municipal only a short walk from the cathedral. It's located in Plaza del Mercado, and houses some incredibly rare artefacts found in the city dating back to the Roman period and the Corinthians. If you're looking for free things to do in Jerez, they offer free entry on every first Sunday of the month! It's definitely a hidden gem in Jerez, and often overlooked by tourists.

8. Iglesia de San Mateo

Located across the plaza from Museo Arqueológico Municipal is another gorgeous religious building in Jerez - Iglesia de San Mateo . It may not be at the top of the list of things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, but it's worth a visit if you're in the area or have some spare time. The church itself has recently been restored, but it originally dates back to the 13th century.

9. Plaza Mamelon

There are a lot of lovely plazas in Jerez to walk around, but one that I thought was worth pointing out is Plaza Mamelon . It's considered by many to be the most elegant plaza in Jerez, and serves to connect the commercial and historical parts of the city. It's a great spot to sit under some shade for a bit and get out of the Spanish sun!

10. Convento de Santo Domingo

A short walk from Plaza Mamelon is another impressive historical building. Convento de Santo Domingo was one of the first temples to be built outside of the city walls, and is said to be the location of the first Catholic mass following the reconquest of Jerez in the 13th century. It was also recently used as a filming location for the hit TV series The Crown , where it featured as a hospital.

11. Iglesia de San Miguel

Jerez is not an expensive city to visit, and I found that most of the attractions were free or very cheap to get into. One of the best free things to do in Jerez de la Frontera is to visit the Iglesia de San Miguel . We arrived as a mass was taking place, but were allowed in to stand at the back and observe the ceremony. The church dates back to the end of the 15th century, and it's said to have been commissioned by the Catholic monarchs when they visited Jerez. Since its foundation, it was constantly added to up until the 18th century, and is now made up of three different architectural styles. It's only a short walk from the main plaza, so definitely worth visiting, even if you only have one day in Jerez.

12. Plaza de la Asunción

Plaza de la Asunción is one of the nicest places to visit in Jerez, and is home to some important historical buildings. To the left of this photo is Iglesia de San Dionisio , a 15th century church which has been beautifully maintained. And to the right is the Antiguo Cabildo (old town hall), which was built in the 16th century when Spain was at the height of its power as a result of its trade with the Americas.

13. Plaza de la Yebra

Sitting just behind Plaza de la Asunción is another, much smaller plaza known as Plaza de la Yebra . It's very popular among locals who like to enjoy some tapas while getting out of the sun. There are plenty of restaurants in Jerez to choose from, but this spot has some of the most popular ones. The weather in Jerez can get quite hot at times, so it's always nice to find some shaded areas!

14. Try Some Langostinos

I'm not a major seafood fan, but due to its location near the sea, Jerez has some of the best seafood options available in the province of Cádiz. There are tonnes of dishes available at almost every restaurant, so if you love seafood or just want to try some traditional Andalusian food, Jerez is a good place to be. Don't forget to try the l angostinos !

15. Stop for Ice Cream at Heladería La Rosa de Oro

Nestled between Plaza de la Yebra and Plaza del Arenal is Heladería La Rosa de Oro . They began making traditional pastries and delicious ice cream in 1928, and still use the same methods today. They make their products based on specific times of the year and have become somewhat of an institution in the city. Make sure you write this one down on your list of things to do in Jerez de la Frontera - you'll probably come back more than once!

16. Calle Larga

Calle Larga has played a central role in the history of Jerez since the 16th century. Many of the nobility who settled in Jerez had their palaces along this street, as it gave important access to areas outside of the town walls. The street was eventually used for coffee shops and social gatherings, before it was pedestrianised and turned into more of a shopping street. There are plenty of nice shops and places to eat along Calle Larga, and it's surrounded by other points of interest in Jerez too, so take some time to stroll along this historic street and soak up the atmosphere.

17. El Gallo Azul

The central figure of Calle Larga is El Gallo Azul . It was built in 1929 as a gift to the city from the Domecq family to mark the exposition in Seville. It was actually designed by the same man who designed Plaza de España in Seville. At the top of the rounded building you can see a sign of the brand Fundador , a famous sherry brand from Jerez. It has a tapas bar on the ground floor which was meant to offer the best food and wine from the city. Sadly it was closed when we visited, but I still wanted to take a quick look as it's a unique thing to see in Jerez de la Frontera.

18. Mercado Central de Abastos

Sitting just to the right of El Gallo Azul is the Mercado Central de Abastos ,which was built at the end of the 19th century. It's a very popular place with the locals, and sells all fresh produce. If you're planning a trip to Spain, chances are you'll end up in one of these markets wherever you travel to - they're that popular.

19. Plaza del Arenal

Plaza del Arenal is the centre of activity in Jerez, and is surrounded by lovely tapas bars and restaurants. Right in the centre of the plaza stands a statue dedicated to Miguel Primo de Rivera who was born in Jerez and became the dictator of Spain in the 1920s. It was actually his son who started the Fascist party that would lead to Franco's rule. It's a somewhat controversial statue, but has been placed in a beautiful setting in the midst of flowers and a water feature.

20. Eat Tapas at La Taberna

Don't leave Jerez without trying the tapas. There are many restaurants to choose from, but I would highly recommend visiting La Taberna which is located in Plaza del Arenal. They serve a mixture of traditional and regional dishes, most of which you can get as tapas portions. Best of all, it's a great place to eat if you're visiting Spain on a budget!

21. Heladería La Polar

Sitting directly across the plaza from La Taberna is another ice cream shop that I'd recommend trying out - Heladería La Polar . It's actually right around the corner from Heladería La Rosa de Oro which I mentioned earlier. It's considered to be the oldest ice cream shop in Jerez and they have a good selection of flavours to choose from. Just make sure you eat it fast or it will start to melt like mine did!

22. Grab a Cocktail at La Favorita

Sure Jerez is famous for its sherry wines, but the city also has some great cocktail bars to hop between. We stopped at La Favorita , which is a short walk from Calle Larga so it's in a great location. It's a Cuban inspired bar with a unique space upstairs, and a large selection of cocktails on their menu.

23. Take in a Flamenco Show

Every summer Jerez holds weekly flamenco shows on a Friday, which are normally in the courtyard of the Alcázar de Jerez. This year however, they had a change of venue and the performances took place at Claustros de Santo Domingo . Seeing a flamenco show is one of the top things to do in Jerez, so if you have time I would highly recommend doing some research and seeing a live show. Flamenco remains an important part of the culture in this region, so what better place to watch it?

24. Monasterio de la Cartuja

If you have a car or don't mind taking public transportation, and are spending longer than one day in Jerez, visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours. It was one of my favourite things to do in Jerez, and is a very peaceful spot in the city. It was built in the 15th century using funds left by a knight who fought in the reconquest of the city in the 13th century. He had no descendants so instead wanted a Carthusian monastery established in Jerez. It's still an active monastery today, and when we visited we caught a glimpse of the nuns at prayer which anyone is welcome to join.

25. Wine Tasting at Bodegas Lustau

What better way to end this list than with another bodegas? Lustau is one of the leading names in sherry production, and their bodegas is located right in the heart of Jerez. It was founded in 1896 and is the only winery within the Sherry Triangle to produce wine in all three of the main towns. It's a beautiful bodegas to walk around and the tour takes you to some of the most important (and interesting) parts of it.

We joined their full tasting tour , and were given the opportunity to sample a wide variety of different wines, including their very popular Vermouth . It was a very informative tour where we learned about the production of their wines as well as a lot of interesting historical facts about the bodegas and the company itself. Our guide was a licensed sommelier who was very nice and able to answer any questions we had during the wine tour - make sure you ask for Carmen if you want to book an English speaking tour of Lustau!

BONUS: Cycle Around Parque de los Toruños

Although not exactly in Jerez de la Frontera, Parque de los Toruños is a gorgeous area to explore, either by bike or on foot. It's located between El Puerto de Santa María and Puerto Real, so you'll need a car to get to it. If you don't have your own bike, you can rent one on site for a very small fee. We visited just before sunset so were able to take in the views along the beach before cycling around this ecological paradise.

Jerez is a beautiful city with a lot of historic attractions to visit. Although it's well known for its sherry production there are also some phenomenal places to eat in Jerez de la Frontera that shouldn't be missed.

If you want to know where the locals eat head over to Bina Bar . This modern restaurant serves a delicious selection of seasonal Spanish dishes and some have a French flare to them. It’s located a short 20 minute walk north of Jerez’s old town in a residential area of the city so you won’t find too many tourists here - unless they know where to look! As soon as you walk into Bina Bar you’ll immediately fall in love with the simple yet modern decor and since their menu is designed for sharing so you can enjoy tucking into several dishes - and pairing them with wine!

I have to say that the classic Iberian ham croquettes are a must-try and were honestly the best I’ve ever tasted. We also tried the beautifully presented scallops which were served in a spring onion emulsion, the Russian salad with white prawns , the tuna tartare , a montadito of mixed meats, and the melt-in-your-mouth sea bass . All of these dishes tasted amazing and were incredibly fresh so I would recommend ordering all of them for sharing if you’re feeling hungry. There are larger dishes on the menu if you don’t feel like tapas dining as well.

And let’s not forget about dessert either! If you like cheesecakes then you’ll definitely want to try Bina Bar’s version which is very flavourful and creamy. I opted for the warm chocolate fondant which was served with ice cream and was a great way to round off our dinner. Bina Bar has immediately become our new favourite restaurant in Jerez de la Frontera and it’s the perfect affordable fine dining experience in this historic city.

If you're still in the planning stages of your trip to southern Spain , or are looking for somewhere to go on a day trip, Jerez is a gorgeous city to visit with lots to offer. It's often overlooked because of the larger cities in the area such as Cádiz and Seville , but there are a lot of things to do in Jerez de la Frontera that will definitely keep you busy for a day or more.

I would love to hear about your own experiences in Jerez de la Frontera or anywhere in southern Spain , so please leave me a comment below. And don't forget to connect with me on Instagram !

Like this post? Why not pin it for later?

Related Posts

9 Things You Need To Do in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Cádiz

The Best Things To Do in El Puerto de Santa María, Cádiz

The Best Way To Spend One Day in Cádiz, Spain

Top 10 Tourist Attractions and Activities in the UAE

5 Tips for Staying Safe When Travelling Abroad in 2024

Top Things to Do in Miami, Florida

23 Unique Things To Do In Jerez, Spain (3 Day Itinerary)

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: June 16, 2020  - Last updated: September 11, 2023

A travel guide to the best attractions in Jerez, Southern Spain: the perfect Jerez Itinerary

Have you ever heard the saying ‘Life is a journey, not a destination’?

Well then look no further than Jerez de la Frontera in Cadiz, Andalusia – it’s the perfect place to start your adventure!

From rich culture and warm hospitality to incredible sightseeing possibilities and vibrant nightlife – there really isn’t anything that this charming city doesn’t have to offer.

Whether it’s exploring picturesque old towns or sipping on some of the world’s finest Sherry wines, I can guarantee that you will be spoilt for choice with all of the amazing things to do in Jerez.

So join us as we take an unforgettable dive into its captivating streets and cultural hotspots; because trust us when we say – this is one trip that you definitely won’t forget!

You, dear reader, support this blog. If you purchase through a link, we earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things To Do In Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucia

• Catedral de Jerez de la Frontera
• Bodegas Tradición
• Visit the Alcázar
• Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre
• Centro Andaluz de Flamenco
• Circuito de Jerez

Useful resources to visit Jerez

✈ Book cheap flights to Jerez, Spain with  Skyscanner ⚘ Avoid tourist traps and get the customizable  “Southern Spain Like a Local”  itinerary. – Get it  here ✔ Book tours in Jerez with GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best hotels in Jerez with Trivago ❖ Rent a car at the best rates with Discover Cars ✎ Never leave without travel insurance! I get mine at  HeyMondo . It is easy to set up, cheap, and reliable. $ Withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange charges with  Wise (free Mastercard debit card to spend money abroad)

How to get to Jerez

If you are visiting Jerez de la Frontera from the United Kingdom’s low-cost carrier, Ryanair offers several flights a week from Stansted (STN) to Jerez Airport (XRY). Vueling and Iberia offer domestic flights from other cities in Spain. – Check flights to Jerez airport

Thanks to Spain’s high-speed rail network trains are a popular way to visit Jerez with buses being an alternative for people arriving from towns not served by rail.

How to get from Madrid to Jerez:

The quickest way to get to Jerez from Madrid is to fly non-stop with Iberia. The flight time from Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) is 1h 15m. – Check rates here

Bus: ALSA operates one bus a day between Madrid and Jerez with a journey time of 7h 35m. – Book tickets in advance here

Train: There are 13 trains a day from Madrid Atocha Station to Jerez with a journey time of around 3h33m. Add another 45 minutes if you need to change trains in Seville. – Book tickets in advance here

How to get from Seville to Jerez:

Bus: Buses depart San Bernardo Bus Station for Jerez every hour with a journey time of 1h 30m. – Get tickets here

Train: Trains depart Santa Justa Train Station for Jerez every hour and have a journey time of just over an hour. – Get tickets here

How to get from Malaga to Jerez:

Bus: The fastest way to get to Jerez from Malaga by bus requires a change at Algeciras Airport (AEI) near Gibraltar. The bus from Malaga to Jerez takes just over five hours and includes a one hour transfer. – Get tickets here

Train: Getting a train from Malaga Maria Zambrano Station to Jerez involves changing trains in both Cordoba and Seville and will take approximately 3h 49m. – Get tickets here

How to get from Cadiz to Jerez:

Bus: Transportes Comes operates an hourly bus service from Cadiz to Jerez with a journey time of around 45m.

Train: There are several trains per day from Cadiz to Jerez with a journey time of 34m.

Buy tickets in advance here

Visit Jerez Cathedral

Built with a mixture of baroque, neoclassical, and Gothic styles, Jerez Cathedral was built in the 17th century on the site of a mosque and the old church of El Salvador . It’s one of the main things to see in Jerez.

While not known to be a fact, it is believed that the outside bell tower was built over a minaret. Inside the cathedrals, the museum is a collection of silverware and a painting by Francisco de Zurbarán depicting the Virgin Mary asleep as a child.

Opening times : Monday to Saturday 10:30-18:30 Free admission on Sundays from 10:30 to 11:30

In order to see the best hidden gems in Jerez, go with a guided tour . – Check rates here

Visit the Alcazar, Jerez

Visiting the Alcazar is one of the top things to do in Jerez, Spain. Built in either the 11th or 12 centuries, the Jerez Alcazar is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Andalucia.

Notable for its octagonal tower which is typical of Almohad-era forts, the castle is reached by Islamic inspired gardens and a 12-century mosque that was turned into a chapel.

Transformed by Alfonso X of Castile in 1264, the chapel maintains its Islamic roots thanks to a fountain and horseshoe-shaped arches.

At one point there were 18 mosques in Jerez with the chapel in the Alcazar the only one with remains dating back to this period.

Typical of Moorish rulers’ seats of power the Alcazar features geometric flower beds, fountains, and wonderfully preserved Arab baths.

Probably built on what remained of Roman baths the Almohad Baños Árabes features three rooms of which one contains star-shaped vaults to let in the light.

Opening times:

Monday to Friday – 09:30- 17:30 914:30 during winter)

Weekends – 9:30 – 214:30

In order to skip the line, it’s best to visit the Alcazar with a guided tour . – Check rates & reviews here

Visit Sherry wineries of Jerez

Sherry tasting in Jerez is one of the best things to do!

Before we get into the excellent wineries of Jerez, it’s essential to understand what sherry is and why it became so popular.

Winemaking in the region was introduced by the Phoenicians in around 11 BC and then increased during Roman rule when they conquered Iberia in 200BC.

When the Moors arrived in 711 AD, they brought with them distillation which led to brandy and fortified wines.

Sherry surged in popularity after Francis Drake sacked Cadiz in 1587 bringing back to Britain nearly 3,000 barrels of sherry that were waiting to be loaded onto Spanish ships.

Sherry soon became a famous British tipple which led to English families like Harveys and Sandeman setting up shop in Jerez.

Only produced in the sherry triangle between Cadiz and Jerez, there are numerous bodegas (cellars) that offer sherry tasting tours with each having its legends and its unique charm.

The five sherry bodega cellars in Jerez listed below are all outstanding.

• Bodegas González Byass (Tio Pepe)
• Bodegas Domecq Alvaro
• Díez Mérito

Book here a Jerez sherry tour

Explore the historic centre of Jerez

As you wander around in the Casco Antiguo (Old Town) you will discover narrow streets that lead to squares with noble buildings that date from the Middle Ages. During Moorish rule, Calle Francos was the main thoroughfare that linked all parts of the city.

Dominated by the city’s cathedral the historic centre of Jerez is where you will find all government buildings mixed amongst historic churches and thriving businesses.

The 15th century Church of San Dionisio shares an attractive square with the former town hall and is one of the best places in Jerez for outdoor drinking and dining.

Tip: Before setting out to explore Jerez, stop first at the tourist office located in Plaza del Arenal and pick up a free map.

You can also opt for a guided tour in order to get valuable insights into the historic buildings. – Check guided tours here

Lunch in Restaurante La Tasca

While there is seemingly no end of places in the center to stop for lunch, consider going just off the beaten track and dine at Restaurante La Tasca , one of the best restaurants in Jerez.

Located close to the Plaza del Caballo on Calle Paraíso, Restaurante La Tasca specializes in traditional Andalucian food. To learn more about Andalusian food, make sure you read these Spanish food facts .

Being close to the ocean, you can be assured of the freshest seafood, while also having an excellent selection of meats and seasonal vegetables.

Tip: Try the specialty of the house Rabo de Toro (Oxtail) you won’t be disappointed!

Address: Calle Paraíso 4 Edificio Jerez 74 11405 Jerez de la Frontera

Opening times: Mon-Sat 11:00 – 00:00. Closed on Sundays

Visit Palacio del Virrey Laserna

Now doubling as a luxurious private rental for events and short-term stays, the Palacio del Virrey Laserna has been in the same family since the second half of the 13th century.

Undergoing a complete refurbishment in the 18th century the palace retains its neoclassical look to this day.

José de la Serna y Martínez de Hinojosa , the last Viceroy of Peru was born in the palace and had the aristocratic home renamed in his honor.

The general public is invited to participate in guided tours where they will discover the lifestyle of a Spanish noble family while taking a trip back in time.

Address: Calle Conde de Los Andes, 8 close to the tourist office.

Opening times: Tues-Sat 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00 Sunday 11:00-14:00. The palace is closed on a Monday.

Marvel at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art

The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera is regarded as being one of the best riding centres in the world. It’s also one of the best prestigious classical riding academies in Spain.

The equestrian centre is devoted to maintaining the classical traditions of Spanish baroque horsemanship, by conserving the ancestral abilities of the Andalusian horse.

Recognized as a distinct breed since the 15th century, the Andalusian horse has been prized by nobility and excels at equestrian dressage.

Along with horsemanship, the school teaches blacksmithing, saddlery, and the breeding of horses.

Visits to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art includes watching training sessions, a tour of the stables and tack rooms along with entry to the staterooms and carriage museum.

Opening hours: 10:00 – 13:00 closed Saturday and Sunday

Attending a horse show in Jerez is thus a must! This show has great reviews on GetYourGuide. – Check rates here

Watch a horse show in Jerez de la Frontera

Called “ How the Andalusian Horses Dance “ , is an equestrian ballet accompanied by familiar Spanish music with riders dressed in costumes typical of the 18th century.

Based on classical dressage, each show contains eight different choreographies with the same degree of difficulty.

Visitors to the show can marvel at the skills of the horses and riders as they perform traditional classical dressage and cattle herding techniques called “ doma vaquera. ” A show at the Spanish riding school is definitely a must when in Jerez de la Frontera.

During the summer the horse show is held three days per week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. The show starts at noon and lasts 1h 30m.

Tickets can be bought online. – Check prices here

Have a coffee at Plaza de la Asunción

After a morning of exploring the historic centre of Jerez de la Frontera stop for a coffee at one of the bars in the Plaza de la Asunción .

Now a pedestrian-only zone in the heart of the city the Plaza de la Asunción is a popular meeting place for locals and a must-visit place for tourists.

Dominated by some of the city’s most elegant buildings including the former town hall, a 16th-century structure built in the Renaissance style.

On the eastern side of the Plaza is the church of San Dionisio and it’s beautiful Gothic-Mudejar door.

Do a sherry tasting in Jerez

With Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, being the sherry capital of the world no visit to Jerez would be complete without learning about the different types of sherry.

Earlier in this guide, we already mentioned visiting a sherry winery where you no doubt had the chance to sample their famous sherry.

Delving into it deeper you will come to learn that sherry is far more complicated than the small glass of Harveys Bristol Cream that you get at grandma’s house over Christmas.

Ranging from dry to sweet and everything in between pairing sherry with food is fast becoming an art. Make sure you try Tocino De Cielo when in Jerez.

To sample the different types of sherry, visit what is called a “ tabanco ” and tell the owner that you would like to sample different kinds of sherry such as the sweet Pedro Ximénez Jerez wine.

Hopefully, you will find one you like and buy a bottle to take home as a souvenir.

Book sherry tastings here

Go tabanco hopping

Now armed with the knowledge of sherry, why not spend the night tabanco hopping while sampling the best tapas Jerez has to offer.

Before we list some of the places we like, let’s get an understanding of why tapas bars in Jerez are called tabanco’s .

The word tobanco is what the old sherry stores used to be called and was a place where locals would buy sherry straight from the barrel.

Over time the tobanco’s morphed from a simple sherry store to a place where you could not only purchase sherry but spend the night eating and drinking.

The idea of a wine shop and tavern dates back to the 17th century, and while tobanco’s were for a while disappearing, they are today trendy places to eat and drink.  Below is a list of our six favorite places to go tobanco hopping.

• La Cruz Blanca
• Tabanco San Pablo
• Las Cuadras
• Tabanco Plateros
• El Almacén

Enjoy tapas in Jerez

Tapas are, of course, a great way to eat while exploring the many bars and tabanco’ s in Jerez.

Claimed by some as being the birthplace of tapas going out on a tapas tour of Jerez is a treat. Some of our favorite restaurants in Jerez are:

• El Almacén: Mentioned in our list of tobancos , El Almacén is a modern wine bar that also happens to serve delicious food. Try their delightful salt cod fritters, and you won’t be disappointed.
• Bar Juanito: Almost hidden in a back street behind the squares and monuments Bar Juanito has been serving delicious tapas since 1943. Bar Juanito specializes in taps made from artichoke but has plenty of other dishes on its tapas menu. Our favorite is the meatballs cooked in Oloroso sherry.
• La Cruz Blanca: Regarded as being one of the best tapas bars in Jerez, La Cruz Blanca features traditional favorites alongside more modern inspired dishes. Be sure and order the stewed pork cheeks with apple compote!
• Las Banderillas: Las Banderillas is hugely popular with locals and offers a wide range of tapas to compliment whatever you are drinking. The specialty of the house is stewed oxtail so be sure to work it in with your tapas selection.
• Atuvera: Named after a song by a local flamenco icon of the city, Atuvera is a modern gastro bar serving the latest trends in Spanish tapas.

In order to try the best tapas in every place, I recommend going on a tapas tour in Jerez. – Check tapas tours here

Visit the clock museum

Located in the Atalaya estate, the Jerez clock museum has more than 300 clocks and watches dating back to the 17th century.

Lifesize holograms, classical baroque music, and the ticking of the clocks set the mood in all of the museums’ ten rooms.

Opening times: Opening times: Monday to Friday 09:00-14:00. Closed at the weekend.

Go shopping in the market of Jerez – Mercado Central de Abastos

Jerez de la Frontera has some fantastic indoor and outdoor markets selling the freshest seasonal produce you will find anywhere.

If you only have time to visit one market when in Jerez make it the Mercado de Abastos . Housed in a neoclassical building dating back to 1885, the Mercado de Abastos is famous for its selection of seafood brought in fresh from Cadiz each day.

The markets of Jerez are also a key element of every guided Jerez tour . – Check guided walks here

Address: 8 Calle Doña Blanca, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Opening times: Mon – Sat 07:00 – 15:00 closed on Sunday

Lunch in Albores

Located in the center of Jerez on a pedestrian-only street, Albores serves traditional Andalucian food that is inspired by the seasons.

Sit out on the terrace and watch the world go by while having lunch at the hour of your choosing, as unlike many restaurants  Albores operates an all-day kitchen.

Address: Calle Consistorio, 12, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 08:00 –12:00. Sunday 8:00 – 00:00

Wander in San Miguel neighbourhood

Competing with Santiago for the title of Jerez’s flamenco neighborhood the district of Iglesia de San Miguel is built around the Plaza del Arenal .

Here you will discover a palm-fringed square with a statue of former Spanish prime minister Miguel Primo de Rivera.

Plenty of bars and restaurants are in the area as are sculptures honoring two of Jerez’s flamenco artists La Paquera de Jerez and Lola Flores .

Pay tribute to Lola Flores

The statue of a flamenco dancer Lola Flores in the San Miguel neighborhood pays homage to Jerez’s most famous daughter who from a young age became a star.

Known for her overwhelming personality on stage Lola became an international celebrity performing in more than 35 films.

Address: de la, Calle Ramón de Cala, 15, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz

Visit the motor Circuito de Jerez

Built to host Formula One races the Circuito de Jerez is now more associated with Moto GP and is a hotbed of motorcycle racing in Spain.

Don’t worry if you are not in Jerez for a race as you may get lucky and witness a team practicing.

Touring the facilities and standing on the winner’s podium is fun as is the motor museum full of cars, bikes, and memorabilia from the likes of Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna.

In the Circuito de Jerez gift shop, you can purchase merchandise from top riders like Jorge Lorenzo, Valentino Rossi, and Dani Pedrosa.

It’s definitely a great idea when wondering about what to do in Jerez for action lovers.

Address: Carretera de Arcos-Jerez de la Frontera, Km 10, 11405 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz.

Opening times: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: from 09.00 to 15.00

Watch a flamenco show in Jerez

Tablao Flamenco Puro Arte in Jerez by Raul Ortega offers a different flamenco show every night where top-level artists show off their credentials.

Regarded as being one of the best flamenco shows in existence, the Tablao is a must-see attraction during any visit to Jerez de la Frontera. Each show lasts for around one hour with food and drinks available.

Address: Calle de la Madre de Dios 10 nº10, 11401 Jerez de la Frontera Spain

Opening times: Wed 19:30 – 23:30 Fri – Sat 19:30 – 23:30

Day trip to White Villages near Jerez

Called Pueblos Blancos the white villages of Andalucia near Jerez include Arcos, Ubrique, El Bosque, Grazalema, Benamahoma, Benaocaz, Villaluenga del Rosario and Ronda.

All within a short drive of Jerez de la Frontera, each village and town has its own unique history and some breath-taking views.

The highlight of the outing is the town of Ronda, and it’s amazing Puente Nuevo bridge above El Tajo gorge.

Regarded as being the home of bullfighting, Ronda was a favorite with American writer Earnest Hemingway and Hollywood legend Orson Wells who loved Ronda so much he had his ashes buried on a friend’s estate.

To make the most of the white village excursion set aside at least half a day or go on a guided tour like this one . – Check white town tours here

Day trip to Seville

Easy to get to in just over an hour by train a day trip to Seville is a must for anyone visiting Jerez de la Frontera.

Overlooked by a massive Gothic cathedral, Seville is a mix of Moorish palaces, baroque churches and winding medieval lanes.

Exceedingly wealthy during the 16th century when Spain ruled, America’s Seville is home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the Alcázar, a Mudéjar palace that was used to represent the water gardens of Dorne in HBO’s Game of Thrones.

For more information, please visit our 3-day itinerary Seville article we wrote earlier.

Day Trip to Cadiz & Doñana

Founded by the Phoenicians in about 1100 BC, Cadiz is regarded as being the oldest permanently settled city in Europe.

Used as a setting off point for Columbus’s trips to America, Cadiz became the architectural model for many of South America’s great colonial cities.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the city of Cadiz is often overlooked by tourists visiting Andalucia, in favor of Granada and Seville , and for this reason alone is well worth a visit. The city is one of the best places to visit in Andalucia .

Tip: Rather than go to Cadiz for a day at the beach, head a little further north up the coast to Rota where you will discover one of the best beaches in Spain. 

Doñana National Park is unique UNESCO-listed wetlands that are home to numerous bird species, wild boars, and the endangered Iberian Lynx.

For more information, please visit our 3-day itinerary Cadiz article we wrote earlier.

Attend a bull country show

Visit the Campo Abierto and experience a day out in the Spanish countryside. A trip to see the bulls and horses starts with a 700-meter walk discovering the native wildflowers while watching the bulls and oxen roaming free in the fields.

From the grandstand, you will be treated to a display of Andalucian horsemanship that includes cattle drives and traditional dressage. The show lasts one and a half hours with a ten-minute break. – Get tickets here

Address: A-396, km1 Medina Sidonia | A-381, Jerez – Los Barrios, Salida 31 11170 Medina-Sidonia, Cádiz

Opening times: from March to October every Wednesday and Sunday at 11:00

Gibraltar Day Trip from Jerez

A day trip to Gibraltar from Jerez is an exciting adventure that you should not miss.

Located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory known for its iconic Rock of Gibraltar, a limestone ridge that rises dramatically from the sea.

The journey from Jerez to Gibraltar takes about 1.5 hours by car, making it a convenient day trip.

Once you arrive in Gibraltar, there are several attractions you must visit. The first is the cable car ride to the top of the Rock.

From here, you will have a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the coast of Africa on a clear day. At the top, you will also encounter the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe.

Another main attraction is the Great Siege Tunnels, carved out of the rock during the Great Siege of Gibraltar in the 18th century. The tunnels offer a fascinating insight into the military history of Gibraltar.

Before heading back to Jerez, take a walk around the marina and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea.

To see all the major sights in a day and have all your transport sorted for you, consider booking a guided tour. This one includes a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar and free time.

Tip: Remember to bring your passport as you will be crossing an international border. Also, while the official currency in Gibraltar is the Gibraltar Pound, most shops and restaurants also accept Euros.

If you would like to know more about other amazing places in Andalucia, you should visit these three guides: things to do in Gibraltar or 1 week Andalucia itinerary or our 3-day itinerary Tarifa , the surfer town in Southern Spain.

If you want to explore Southern Spain more make sure you read about the most beautiful places in Granada .

Best Hotels in Jerez, Southern Spain

Hotel casa palacio maría luisa ***** – luxury.

Occupying a former 19th-century casino, the Hotel Casa Palacio María Luisa is one of the best hotels in Jerez. It’s ideally located to visit all of Jerez de la Frontera’s attractions while still retaining its privacy.

Set in a spacious garden with an outdoor terrace and swimming pool the hotel features its own restaurant, bar, and shared lounge.

Each room has its own private bathroom, satellite television, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. – Check rates & reviews here

Address: Calle Tornería, 22, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Eurostars Asta Regia Jerez **** – Mid-Range

 Set in an old-world building this modern hotel is located next to Plaza de la Arena , one of Jerez’s most popular meeting points.

Ideally suited to people who want to explore Jerez on foot the Eurostars Asta Regia Jerez offers guests every conceivable amenity that includes an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a sauna.

All rooms come with a complimentary buffet-style breakfast. – Check rates & reviews here

Address: San Agustín, 9, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Hotel YIT Casa Grande *** – Budget

With an unrivaled location in the heart of the historical center, the Hotel YIT Casa Grande is a boutique-style hotel set in what was once an elegant family mansion.

Hotel YIT Casa Grande features a beautiful inner courtyard and a roof terrace with views of the city.

All rooms at the Hotel YIT Casa Grande are fully equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, en-suite bathroom, and flat-screen TVs. – Check rates & reviews here

Address: C/ Plaza de las Angustias, 3 , 11402 Cádiz – Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Getting Around Jerez

The best way to get around Jerez de la Frontera is on foot as it allows you to enjoy its beautiful streets and squares.

Most of the things that are of interest to tourists are all within walking distance of each other. 

For those that don’t want to do too much walking, Jerez de la Frontera has a hop-on-hop-off bus tour that stops in all the city’s strategic locations. – Check rates here

Is Jerez worth visiting?

With a history that dates back to the time of the Moors, Jerez de la Frontera boasts a charming Old Town ( Casco Antiguo ) with palm-fringed plazas and a partially restored Moorish fortress.

One of the main things to do in Jerez de la Frontera is visit the town’s church which was initially constructed as a mosque.

Inside the Sacristy of the Cathedral del Salvador is a painting by 17th-century Spanish painter Francisco de Zurbarán titled “ La Virgen Niña .” Renowned for his religious paintings, Zurbarán was often called the “ Spanish Caravaggio .”

Today Jerez de la Frontera has an aristocratic feel, thanks to its wide streets, squares, and colorful jacaranda trees that bloom in spring.

Add to this mix of stylishly dressed business people, contemporary dining, sherry, flamenco music and dancing, and incredible weather, and you will soon realize why Jerez de la Frontera is a great place to visit.

Where is Jerez?

Jerez de la Frontera or simply Jerez is located in South-western Spain around 14 miles (22km) from the city of Cadiz and 7.4 miles (12km) from the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also very near the Costa De La Luz.

With just over 200,000 people Jerez is the largest city in Cadiz Province and the 5th largest in Andalucia. Jerez is famous for horse breeding and producing the world’s most excellent sherry.

Depending on your style of travel Jerez can be seen in either one, two, or three days.

Weather in Jerez, Spain

Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means it has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This type of weather is typical for the region of Andalucia.

Summer in Jerez is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C during July and August, which are the hottest months.

Autumn in Jerez (September to November) is a pleasant time to visit. The temperatures start to cool down with temperatures of 17-30°C in September and 9-20°C in November.

If you visit Jerez or most places in Andalucia in winter , temperatures are mild compared to most other parts of Europe.

Temperatures during the day typically range from 11°C, and at night, they rarely drop below 5°C. Jerez is also one of the best places to visit in Andalucia at Christmas .

Spring in Jerez is a lovely time to visit, with mild temperatures ranging from 18°C in March to 24°C in May.

If you’re visiting in May, make sure you visit the Feria del Caballo or horse fair – one of the one of the most important horse fairs in Spain.

There are many traditional events going on, including flamenco dancing, and you’ll also have the chance to see many magnificent horses.

A short FAQ about things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

What are the best things to do in jerez de la frontera.

Visit Sherry wineries, explore the historic center or marvel at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art are only a few of the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera.

What are things to do in Jerez on Sunday?

You should visit Jerez Cathedral for the entrance is free on Sundays.

What are fun things to do in Jerez?

Watch a horse show in Jerez de la Frontera is definitely one fun thing to do in Jerez, Spain.

Is it worth visiting Jerez?

Jerez de la Frontera is a charming city known for its delicious sherry, beautiful horses, flamenco, and rich history. It offers a more relaxed and authentic experience than some of the larger Andalusian cities.

What is Jerez Spain known for?

Jerez is famous for its production of sherry, a type of fortified wine. It’s also known for its Andalusian horses, flamenco, and historical sites like the Alcázar and the Cathedral.

How many days do you need in Jerez?

Depending on your interests, Jerez can be seen in one, two, or three days. There is plenty to do and see in the city, but a two-day visit will allow you to experience most of the main attractions without feeling rushed

Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.

Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!

1-888-717-4514 0871-666-0214 +34-942-637-358

Your Local Specialist Travel Advisors For Custom Tours in Spain & Portugal

• Experiences
• Accommodation
• Small Country Hotels
• Destinations
• How It Works
• Booking conditions
• Our Company
• Our Location
• The Totally Spain Team
• Our Service

HOLIDAY INFORMATION ON Jerez de la Frontera

Home / Destinations / Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera AS A HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Customer Reviews

It was an absolute pleasure working with Belen from Totally Spain to plan our unforgettable family vacation to Portugal recently. Belen had previously helped us plan a trip to Spain last Dec (which I thought could not be outdone - but I was wrong). O...

Smriti Mehra Family, New Jersey, USA 2023-08-28

Perhaps its the combination of old sherry houses, flamenco and the beautifully choreographed “dancing” horses but there’s a unique atmosphere in Jerez – something you just don’t find anywhere else. Although it’s very easy to access, you have a real sense of being off the main tourist trail. This city itself is a rewarding space – with almost a Colonial feel from its low rise architecture – you’ll enjoy the wonderful colours whether your looking down from a rooftop terrace or walking the many tree-lined streets peeking into the delightful courtyards.

Jerez is inextricably linked with the music and dance of flamenco, as the town lies at the very center of Andalucia’s Gypsy culture .  The annual Festival de Jerez in late Febuary/early March offers a fortnight’s nonstop celebration of flamenco and is well worth travelling to Jerez for.

You can’t go to Jerez without sampling the olorosos, finos and manzanillas . Names such as Harveys, Sandeman and Gonzales Byass will be very familiar to you. It’s an exciting time to visit the sherry producers. Sherry has become fashionable again and as The New York Times puts it “sherry is gradually moving from the drawing room to the dinner table”. After four decades of a downturn, the sherry producers are excited by the new possibilities and are responding with some interesting and unique blends.

Another good reason to visit Jerez is to see the world-renowned Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art.  The school was founded by the Domecqs who were horse breeders as well as sherry purveyors.  The Telegraph gives the equestrian show a huge thumbs up: “It’s enthralling: an extraordinarily precise show. Rather like equine Royal Ballet students, the pure-breds (descended from horses bred by 15th-century Carthusian monks in Jerez) are reared on a farm until their dancing potential can be evaluated at the age of four.” You really should visit the school and take in a show to see just how impressive these horses are.  Also be sure to visit the Horse Carriage Museum and gardens which are splendid.

If you’re after more horsepower than hooves can offer, then the Formula 1 track at Jerez is a place where you can catch many a big name training if not competing.

And as you’d expect of any city that boasts wineries, you’ll find a wonderful selection of formal and informal restaurants and tapas bars in Jerez.

If you like the sound of Jerez but want to spend some time on the beach, note that Jerez is less than 30 minutes drive from the coast. You can easily access El Puerto de Santa Maria, Cadiz, Rota or any of a number of charming fishing villages where the coastline and the seafood is amazing. Also not forgetting the Doñana National Park , one of Europe's premier wetland reserves.

YOUR PERFECT TAILOR MADE TRIP STARTS HERE!

Obligation free proposal. Response within 48hrs

Additional Information

Jerez - Sherry Wineries, Dancing Horses & Flamenco

Ordering wine in spain | the in’s & out’s of a wine list, must-sees in andalusia , wineries with art in spain – the best bodegas for all things fine.

INSPIRED BY THE DESTINATIONS SHOWN ABOVE?

Then contact us today and Totally Spain can customize a trip just for you.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER (Great offers, news and tales)

Travel Safe

Oficina Municipal de Turismo de Jerez de la Frontera

Routes of the Al-Andalus Legacy

9 bucket list things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Jerez de la Frontera is a hidden gem in Andalusia known as the birthplace and the world capital of fortified wine – sherry. If you get to visit this charming Andalusian town then here are the bucket list things to do in Jerez de la Frontera!

In this blog post, you will find all the places with descriptions, photos, and locations where they can be found on Google Maps . We loved exploring bodegas, centuries-old churches, and cathedrals, and walking the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town! Happy exploring!

Read more » 11+ cool Instagram spots in Jerez de la Frontera

This post contains some affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you!

TABLE OF CONTENTS »

1. Go on a tour at the world-famous sherry and wine bodegas!

Jerez de la Frontera is world-famous as the world capital of the fortified wine – sherry. It is the birthplace of this popular drink. And the area around Jerez de la Frontera is the only place where it is allowed to produce this specific drink – sherry.

There are multiple bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera. We opted for the iconic González Byass sherry bodega Tio Pepe thanks to their long history of sherry making.

Even though we are not sherry fans we joined a guided tour through their bodegas to find out more about the art of wine and sherry making. You can find and book different tours on their website .

The best part of the tour was visiting the storage cellars of sherry and wine barrels. They are dark, and gloomy and have a rich and sweet smell inside them. Truly a fantastic experience!

Hearing how much effort is put into each bottle made me appreciate the art of creating such drinks. My favorite part was admiring the different sizes, shapes, colors, and ages of the oak barrels. Feels like stepping back in time!

There was one hall with barrels signed by all the famous visitors to this bodega. We noticed signatures by people from royalty to Hollywood and back! These bodegas are the essence of the town so definitely try to visit one!

Location: Bodega Tio Pepe

2. Explore Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera!

One of the must-do things in Jerez de la Frontera is visiting Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera. It is a fortified complex with a castle, a mosque, gardens, Arab baths, and a tower with amazing views over Jerez de la Frontera.

The entrance fee to this place was only 5 EUR and you can spend at least 1-2 hours wandering around the complex. It is very well-preserved and well-maintained. We bought tickets at the ticket office on-site.

Probably my favorite place inside the walls was the little mosque. Obviously, it is not functioning anymore and it is a very small one, however, I absolutely loved the architecture there. Especially the traditional horseshoe-shaped arches that you can see in Islamic architecture.

Another favorite was the tower where you can climb up to see the city from above. Right next to it were the Arab baths. If you still haven’t been in those, definitely check them out. It is fascinating to see how the bathing system worked many centuries ago.

There is also a beautiful garden with plants, trees, flowers, and fountains where you can get some shade from the sun and smell fresh flowers. They really do take care of the gardens here!

The biggest revelation that I saw in Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera was seeing the mill and the mechanism that produces olive oil. Those tools are massive and it is hard to imagine how they created this system already centuries ago!

Location: Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera

3. Admire the Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera and climb up to the bell tower!

Once you get to Jerez de la Frontera it is impossible to miss the gigantic cathedral. It is a stunning 17th-century building that was built above the Great Mosque of Jerez. It is very common in Andalusian cities to build churches and cathedrals on top of previous mosques or simply turn mosques into churches.

The Cathedral of Jerez is a combination of Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles. It has very distinct shapes on the roof and a beautiful dome. The most unusual thing is that it has a separate bell tower. It is a separate building standing a few meters away from the church.

Visit the inside of the Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera

Amongst the most beautiful places in Jerez de la Frontera is the interior of the cathedral. You can enter the cathedral for a fee of 7 EUR ( see timetables and prices here ) and then explore the cathedral, and all the hidden corners (like the Treasury) AND climb up to the Tower of the Cathedral to see the city from above!

I loved exploring the cathedral with its majestic columns, sculptures, glass mosaics, altars, and treasures (where you can’t take photos).

The most interesting part was those rooms that are usually left for the priests and workers of the church. However, here you can see all the back rooms behind the main hall!

Climb up to the bell tower of the cathedral!

After exploring the cathedral you can climb up to the tower of the cathedral. It is very unique as it stands separately from the church. Most often you see the tower connected to the church tho.

The tower was also built in a place where there was a minaret of a mosque. This is something very typical you can see all over Andalusia – that a mosque or a minaret has been rebuilt as a church or a cathedral.

I loved exploring this majestic cathedral! I think it is so fascinating to see that people were so advanced in physics, engineering, architecture, and design many centuries ago. And they built such massive and complicated buildings that are still standing today. They definitely have my respect!

Location: Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera

4. Marvel at the skills of horses at the “How the Andalusian Horses Dance” show!

Dancing horses is something you don’t get to see often! Can you imagine horses dancing ballet and doing pirouette s, do a Pas de Deux , and more?

Sounds unbelievable, however, Jerez de la Frontera offers an absolutely unique experience of attending a show “How the Andalusian Horses Dance”!

The show is accompanied by Spanish music and 18th-century-style costumes. You will see different riding styles, and choreographies according to the repertoire. This experience is not to be missed in Jerez de la Frontera!

The show takes place at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art not far from the Old Town. The equestrian center is devoted to Andalusian horses and offers daily horse-dancing shows and a museum to explore.

You can buy entrance tickets for the show here or choose one of the options you see below. One offers only tickets to the show but with the other one you can visit the Saddlery, the Palace and two museums as well – Art Equestrian Museum and Carriage Museum.

Location: Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art

5. Get lost in the Historic Center or join a walking tour!

Historic Center of Jerez de la Frontera is relatively small and it is very easy to walk around and see many beautiful places, experience the rich history of this iconic town, and soak in the local culture!

You can either walk around on your own or join a guided tour around the Historic Center and find out more about the Muslim and Christian heritage, marvel at the Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles, and find out the legends and traditions of local people.

We did not have time to join a guided tour but we managed to squeeze in our schedule a walk around the Old Town. From beautiful squares, narrow streets, beautiful buildings, cobblestone sidewalks, and tasty-smelling markets – Jerez de la Frontera had everything and more!

Plaza del Arenal

You will definitely want to visit Plaza del Arenal. It is the central square in Jerez de la Frontera. You will see many restaurants, shops, and people just socializing and relaxing around this area. All the main attractions in Jerez de la Frontera are within walking distance from this square.

Plaza de la Asunción

Another must-visit square in Jerez de la Frontera Old Town is Plaza de la Asunción. It is definitely one of the most beautiful squares in the town. The square is located in the historic center right in front of the 15th-century Real Iglesia De San Dionisio Areopagita church.

However, my favorite thing about this square is the central sculpture – a monument to the Virgin of the Assumption located right in the center of the Plaza de la Asunción. It has a very detailed design and beautiful ornaments on top of it.

Iglesia de San Miguel

The Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera is not the only beautiful church in the city. I think that Iglesia de San Miguel also deserves some attention. It was one of my favorite buildings I saw in Jerez de la Frontera (read – one of the most beautiful, in my humble opinion!)!

It has a stunning Gothic facade and is beautiful everywhere you look, so I recommend walking around the church to see it from all sides. Unfortunately, the church was closed so we could not see it from the inside. But I guess it must be stunning!

Alameda Vieja

Imagine an alley lined with purple and pink blooming trees on both sides of a wide walkway and a pavilion built in the 18th century at the end of the alley! Sounds like a dream?

Well, it wasn’t possible for us as we visited Jerez de la Frontera in Spring, however, if you are visiting closer to the summertime then definitely walk past this alley! It would look dreamy all colored in purple and pink!

The alley is also a nice place to relax with benches lined all the way between the trees. It is located right next to Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera (but not part of it; it is accessible to anyone) and across the street from Bodega Tio Pepe.

Location: Plaza del Arenal · Plaza de la Asunción · Iglesia de San Miguel · Alameda Vieja

6. Join a flamenco show in the birthplace of flamenco – Jerez de la Frontera!

Did you know that flamenco emerged around the end of the 18th century and Jerez de la Frontera is considered as the possible birthplace of this dance? And at least some recognized styles of flamenco were created right here!

In any case, visiting a flamenco show in Andalusia is a must and you have the amazing possibility to do it in Jerez de la Frontera! Witness this beautiful art and the talent of local artists by joining a show in a restaurant with optional tapas or even dinner! Choose your show tickets below!

7. Explore local cuisine, visit the Central Market, and taste some tapas!

What better way to explore local culture than tasting some local food and drinks? I always try to visit local markets as well and the one in Jerez de la Frontera – Mercado Central de Abastos – is a great spot to check out.

Another option to find out about local dishes is by joining a traditional tapas tour with a knowledgeable guide who will take you along the journey through the city while tasting multiple tapas and drinks at famous local restaurants. Definitely a must-do in Jerez de la Frontera!

Location: Mercado Central de Abastos · Traditional tapas tour

8. Explore hidden gems in Jerez de la Frontera!

Claustros de Santo Domingo

Claustros de Santo Domingo is my favorite hidden gem in Jerez de la Frontera. Hiding silently on the outskirts of the Old Town, this building was a 13th-century cloister built in Gothic and Mudejar styles.

Today it is the municipal property and holds different exhibitions and other events. The building has opening hours however the entrance to see the building and the inner courtyard is free.

When we visited there were just a few people inside and, I suppose, not many tourists would know about this place as it is a bit further away from the heart of the historic center. However, I can say that this was my favorite hidden gem and definitely among my favorite places in Jerez de la Frontera.

Visit to this building will only take about 10-15 minutes as the courtyard is not too big and you can walk around it quite quickly. Definitely pay a visit to see this beautiful architecture if you happen to be nearby! It feels like stepping back in time for sure!

Estación de Jerez de la Frontera

Another cool find and a hidden gem in Jerez de la Frontera is Estación de Jerez de la Frontera, specifically – the building and the facade of the railway station.

If you happen to be in this area, definitely walk by this building! In this exact place in 1854, they inaugurated the first railway line in Andalusia!

The new railway connected Jerez de la Frontera and El Puerto de Santa de María seaside town. The main motivation behind the railway line was the necessity to ship barrels of wine from Jerez de la Frontera to port and then to the United Kingdom.

However, this unique building was constructed in 1930. The beautiful facade of this building shows a combination of bricks, stone, colorful tiles, and iron.

The architect of this building was the famous Aníbal González. He is one of the authors of the world-famous Plaza de España in Seville .

The illustrations on the tiles depict different stories and historical personalities from the past. The building has three arch-shaped entrances and many columns.

Definitely pay a visit to this building inside – the design and the architecture are just as impressive as the outside!

Location: Claustros de Santo Domingo · Estación de Jerez de la Frontera

9. Check out the most beautiful street in Spain – Calle Ciegos!

One of the most special and beautiful spots in Jerez de la Frontera is Calle Ciegos or the Alley of the Blind. It is a narrow vine-leave-covered street with a view of the Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera at the end of the street.

We visited this place in spring when the leaves were not in full bloom yet. However, we got a great view of the cathedral! In a couple of weeks – sometime around May – the street will look like a tunnel when the leaves come out.

This street was once a public street. It was named Calle Ciegos or the Alley of the Blind because this was once a usual gathering place for poor and blind people who would beg for money from churchgoers. The street was a regular route to go to the church.

However, it is not publicly accessible today. After the famous González Byass sherry and wine bodega expanded, the municipality allowed this street to be included in their territory. You can only access it if you go on a tour to González Byass bodegas.

We did exactly that to get here. You can join this sherry winery and tasting tour or you can check out also some other tours and visits on their website . We crossed this street many times during the sherry tour. However, we also came back here after the tasting to do some photos.

I’m pretty sure you can get to visit Calle Ciegos Street if you visit the Restaurante Pedro Nolasco restaurant that is located right next to this street. As well as if you stay at their hotel – Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe – and ask them to show you this street. This is all part of their territory.

Location: Calle Ciegos · Bodega Tio Pepe

More Andalusia travel inspiration!

• 11+ cool Instagram spots for the best photos in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
• Tarifa bucket list: 9+ best things to do and see in Tarifa, Spain
• 9 best things to do in Spain’s hidden cave village, Setenil de las Bodegas
• How to visit the charming Frigiliana and all the best places to see in 1 day
• Nerja Bucket List: 9 best things to do in Nerja, Spain (in 1 day)
• 13 hidden gems and unique spots you should see in Malaga, Spain

Happy exploring!

Jerez de la Frontera is a hidden gem in Andalusia. Although usually it is not included in most Andalusia travel itineraries, I don’t have a single regret that we visited this charming town!

Jerez de la Frontera is famous for being the birthplace and the world capital of fortified wine – sherry. The name ‘sherry’ actually comes from the name ‘Jerez’.

I hope you enjoy some time in this historic town by exploring bodegas, centuries-old churches and cathedrals, narrow cobblestone streets, stone arches, and walls, and soaking up all the Old Town charm you can get! Happy exploring!

PIN FOR LATER!

Marta is an economist turned full-time traveler. She comes from a small village in a small country (Latvia) with a big dream to see the big World and share it all with you!

On Explored by Marta, you will find travel guides and bucket lists made for active travelers who plan their own itineraries with a little bit of everything - must-see spots, hidden gems, cities, nature, fun adventures, and relaxation!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• http://www.facebook.com/viveandalucia
• http://www.twitter.com/viveandalucia
• http://instagram.com/viveandalucia
• http://www.youtube.com/user/viveandalucia
• Places to visit
• Explore Andalusia
• Plan the trip
• Professional

Our capitals

Much more than cities

Province of Almeria

• Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora

Province of Cadiz

• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales

Jerez de la Frontera

• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema

Province of Cordoba

• Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética
• Los Pedroches

Province of Granada

• Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada
• La Alpujarra

Province of Huelva

• Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado

Province of Jaen

• Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas

• Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén

Province of Malaga

• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce

Province of Seville

• El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte

Main attractions

Mezquita de Córdoba

Alcazaba de Málaga

Jaén Cathedral

Cádiz Cathedral

Muelle de las Carabelas

Alcazaba de Almería

Alhambra y Generalife

Andalusia's Natural Treasures

Cerro del Hierro

Duna de Bolonia

Caminito del Rey

Georuta Desierto de Gorafe

La Geoda de Pulpí

Gruta de las Maravillas

Tinto River

Los Alcornocales

Sierra Nevada

Sierras Subbéticas

Torcal de Antequera

Despeñaperros

• Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star

Cultural Tourism

• Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt

Nature Areas

• Leisure Parks
• Health and Beauty

Places of leisure

Offers and Experiences

Astrotourism - Star Tourism

Tourist Routes

Andalucía a caballo

Meetings and congresses

• Spanish language schools

Cyclotourism

Andalusia made to measure

With the family

Digital and energetic nomad

Andalusia all year round

Summer in Andalusia

Autumn in Andalusia

Christmas in Andalusia

Andalusia in Spring

How to get around in Andalusia

Come by air, by boat or by land

Transport companies in Andalusia

• Practical information

Where to sleep?

Hotel-Apartment

Housing for tourism purposes

Rural House

Country House Lodge

Rural Resort

Campsites and overnight parking

Youth Hostel

Boarding House

Where to eat ?

• Restaurants

Gourmet markets

Things to do

Ideas for your trip

Publications and Brochures

City brochures

Coast leaflets

Area brochure

Specialised brochures

Folletos genéricos

Provincial leaflets

Specialised books

What is NAC?

How does NAC work?

How to create offers in NAC ?

SmartData Andalusia

¿Qué es smartdata?

Fuentes smartdata

Solicitar usuario

Acceso smartdata

Material Audiovisual

Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia

Colecciones

• Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info
• Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora
• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz
• Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema
• Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética
• Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches
• Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada
• La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra
• Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado
• Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina
• Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas
• Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén
• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce
• El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte
• Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info
• Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info
• Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star
• Recipes Recipes Recipes Recipes
• Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt
• Live . Live . Live . Live . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info
• Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info
• Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info
• How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info
• Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info
• Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info
• Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info News +info News +info News +info News +info
• Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info
• NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info
• SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/que-es-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/fuentes-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Fuentes smartdata +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/solicitar-usuario/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Solicitar usuario +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/acceso-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Acceso smartdata +info
• Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/terminos" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Lo último +info Lo último +info Lo último href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/search" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Lo último +info Colecciones +info Colecciones +info Colecciones href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/collections" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Colecciones +info
• - +info - +info - +info - +info

Jerez is in a lush area of countryside formed by the fertile lowland of the River Guadalquivir, just a few minutes away from the Atlantic beaches and the Cádiz mountain range.

Jerez has become famous across the borders due to its wine . This and its truly distinctive urban character are only part of what this region has to offer: Carthusian horse riding, the birthplace of flamenco, the host of the motor racing circuit, as well as the monuments in the city centre, granted the historic-artistic designation. Jerez is also home to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and no end of wine cellars to visit and sample exquisite wine.

Discover all of the attractions that the Jerez de la Frontera region has to offer.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Delicious
• Share on Google+
• Share via email

Population Cores

Show advanced filters

• List and Map

These search results cannot be displayed on the map. To see them, click here .

No hay elementos

We recommend.

• Discover Andalusia

EXPLORE ANDALUSIA

• The best sun in the world
• 100% Natural
• Andalusia flavor

PLACES TO VISIT

• Almería
• Cádiz
• Córdoba
• Jaén
• Málaga

EXPERIENCES

• Active turism
• Conferences and Congresses
• Touristic Routes

TRAVEL PLAN

• Accommodations
• Guided Activities Companies
• Tour Operators and Travel Agencies

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Maya Train Will Get You to All of Yucatán’s Best Spots. But Not Yet.

In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups.

By Elisabeth Malkin

Elisabeth Malkin has been visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for three decades.

I stepped off the platform at the gleaming new Maxcanú train station, eager to see the magnificent Maya archaeological site of Uxmal. All I needed was a taxi to take me there, a trip of about 30 miles away.

There are no taxis, said the stationmaster, as we stood on the polished limestone floors of the high-ceilinged station, which was cool and breezy despite the brilliant late-morning sun outside. And I was the third person in two weeks to get off at Maxcanú expecting to reach Uxmal, he said.

I was midway through a five-day trip to explore the brand-new Maya Train and several of its destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico . Designed to run 965 miles (1,554 kilometers) around a loop of 34 stations when completed, the train will whisk passengers in cool comfort through colonial cities, archaeological sites, splashy resorts and tropical forests.

Now I was stunned. Wrangling a taxi has never been a problem in Mexico. But the drivers gathered in the main square of Maxcanú offered only beat-up vans that hopscotch through small towns, where I might or might not find a taxi to Uxmal. The next van was leaving in 45 minutes.

Yucatán’s layers of history have long held me spellbound. During earlier car trips, I have clambered up deserted Maya temples and palaces, stepped into the cool naves of massive 16th-century churches and visited restored haciendas, testaments of the ostentation — and hardship — of the peninsula’s 19th-century plantation economy. Traveling by train, I thought, would allow me to steep myself in more of that history.

But as I found in Maxcanú, a train won’t necessarily get you to where you want to go.

During my February trip, I traveled on the only route then available, an east-west leg that opened in December and runs from Cancún to Mérida, and then south through the port city of Campeche to the Maya site of Palenque (a short route between Cancún and Playa del Carmen opened last month, with three trains a day). I encountered scheduling confusion, unfinished stations and a dearth of trains — just two operating daily each way between Cancún and Campeche, and only one to Palenque. Overnight sleepers and special dining trains seem years away.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador considers the Maya Train his showcase development project, and wants to inaugurate the rest of the train before he leaves office on October 1. Based on my experience, that goal seems elusive.

A $29-billion route through the jungle

I started my journey in Cancún, where in the pre-dawn gloom the station hovered like a glowing spaceship. An attendant scanned the ticket I had bought online and a half-dozen more pointed me toward my tourist-class car, which was about a quarter full. I planned to go to Campeche, about 300 miles away, stopping once each day. At 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) an hour, the train covers the route in about six hours, the same as a car. (When construction is complete, the train’s speed should increase to 160 kilometers an hour.)

The car’s wide windows looked out at a wall of low jungle. The blue-green seats were comfortable and there was ample space between the rows. I bought a very good cappuccino at the snack bar, but declined the plastic-wrapped sandwiches. The rest of the merchandise was fruit cups, milk boxes and junk food.

The train will ultimately cost much more than the $29 billion budgeted so far, and it’s not the first time ambitious planners have alighted on the region. Cancún was once a tiny fishing village, selected half a century ago as a tourist hub. Last year 10 million international tourists flew into its airport, more than the airports of Mexico City, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta combined.

But uncontrolled growth has stressed the Caribbean coast’s fragile environment. The Maya Train, scientists warn , will push those problems south, threatening the area’s water supply, its unique system of underground limestone caves and its vast nature reserves.

Mr. López Obrador has charged ahead, handing the train over to the military , and arguing that it will spread Cancún’s wealth and attract new visitors. Mexico received more than 42 million overseas tourists last year and they spent almost $31 billion .

Local governments see an opportunity. “The train will allow people to disperse throughout the peninsula,” said Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary for Yucatán state, which promotes dozens of attractions far beyond highlights like Mérida and Chichén Itzá .

Now that the train is operating, transport companies will begin to connect stations with lesser-known sites nearby, she said.

It’s fair to ask whether the train is the most effective way to develop the peninsula’s tourism. Tour companies already run trips to many sites from major cities, which are well served by buses. Driving a rental car through most of the area is considered safe , according to U.S. State Department travel guidance .

Route of Mexico’s Maya Train

Canceled trip.

It took two hours (and one time-zone change) to reach Valladolid, a colonial city of handsome streets and ancient churches, where I bought the rest of my tickets at the station. A tourist-class ticket from Cancún to Valladolid costs 472 pesos (around $28) for foreigners and 355 pesos (around $21) for Mexicans. First class, with wider seats, costs 755.50 pesos and 566.50 pesos, and discounts are available for older travelers and residents of the five states along the train’s route. (A first-class bus from downtown Cancún to Valladolid costs between 222 and 344 pesos, depending on the time of day, and takes half an hour longer.)

It was impossible to run the new Maya Train tracks into dense city centers and the Valladolid station, like the rest, was outside the urban core. A waiting bus took disembarking passengers downtown, a 15-minute ride for 35 pesos.

That day I toured Ek Balam , the site of a ninth-century Maya kingdom that is dominated by a 100-foot palace distinguished by a facade of carvings depicting winged warriors, stylized animal features and geometric patterns bordered by giant fangs. Admission to the site includes entry to the X-Canché cenote, one of thousands of limestone sinkholes that were sacred to the Maya.

Later that afternoon, I was wandering through the Museum of Ethnic Clothing, a private collection of traditional dress, embroidery and hats, when a WhatsApp message from the ticket office blinked on my phone. My train scheduled for the following day was canceled.

I decided to deal with the problem in the morning and enjoy the city. As I wandered past the antique shops and boutique hotels of the elegant Calzada de los Frailes, it was clear that Valladolid’s tourism, and the infrastructure to handle it, was well established. The Maya Train is simply an alternative way to reach a city that tourists discovered years ago.

‘We’re on the Tren Maya!’

In the morning, I found that my train had not been canceled, but the station for which I had a ticket, Tixkokob, was closed. I got off instead one stop earlier at Izamal, known for its ocher streets and the giant Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop the ruins of a pyramid.

During the 90-minute ride, I heard widespread enthusiasm among fellow travelers who expressed a willingness to give the train time to work out the kinks. “We’re an experiment,” said Oliva Escobedo Ochoa, 64, who was vacationing from her home in central Mexico.

Leticia Iliassich, 57, who is Mexican, was traveling with her Croatian husband along with relatives from Mexico and Croatia. They had initially been scheduled on an earlier train to Mérida that had been canceled. “We knew that it was a new project,” she said. “We don’t mind.”

The group had already sent a video to friends declaring, “We’re on the Tren Maya!”

At the Izamal station I hitched a 15-minute ride into the town center with a man who had asked me to take his photo alongside the train and his father. From there I negotiated a taxi to Hacienda San Lorenzo Aké, a working hacienda that still turns the fiber from an agave plant called henequén into coarse rope. Global demand for henequén, known as Yucatán’s “green gold,” brought fantastic wealth to the region in the mid-19th century, speckling the peninsula with more than 1,000 haciendas. ( Many are now sumptuous hotels.)

Where geometry, nature and the divine merge

It was during my third day that I found myself stuck in Maxcanú, after a 90-minute train ride from Izamal. The stationmaster, an army captain, offered me a ride to Uxmal, just as he had to the stranded tourists before me.

Eying Uxmal’s 4 p.m. final ticket sale, I accepted.

My situation made it clear just how distant the Maya Train’s promises are for tourists seeking to explore more of Yucatán. In time, that will change, said Ms. Fridman, the tourism secretary. “The idea is to have more hotels along the train line,” she said. “That will happen little by little.”

But Uxmal , among the most stunning of the Maya sites, made up for the inconvenience. Uxmal’s grand buildings are faced with intricate decorative masks as well as friezes in which geometry, nature and the divine merge. New plaques at each structure offer detailed information in English and Spanish, part of the government’s investment in improving displays at Maya sites for the train project.

Most tourists either take day trips by car or bus to Uxmal from Mérida or stay at one of three nearby hotels. As I finished dinner at my hotel, the dining room began to fill up: 47 Polish tourists had arrived.

Panama hats and a cramped van

My plan for the day was to go by taxi to Bécal, a town where Panama hats are woven in limestone caves to keep the fibers soft, and then pick up the afternoon train in nearby Calkiní for the port city of Campeche.

But I spent so much time watching the hat-making demonstration and then fitting my new hat and buying gifts that we set off with little time to reach the station. To my chagrin, I missed the train, the last one of the day.

On Calkiní’s central square, I found a van that was leaving for Campeche. Cost: 65 pesos. Time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes, similar to what I would have spent on the train. Of course, I was trapped in a cramped seat and had to listen to the driver’s choice of sentimental ballads, but I was dropped off in downtown Campeche, close to my hotel.

The next day, I toured the Museum of Maya Archaeology , an expertly curated collection that included haunting jade funeral masks, glyphs and delicate ceramic figures.

José Madrigal, 45, an engineer from Fremont, Calif., was trying to make Maya pottery interesting for his twin sons. The boys had just turned 5 and their birthday present had been a ride on the Maya Train. “They love trains,” Mr. Madrigal said. Then the family moved on, keeping up a brisk clip through the museum. They had another train to catch.

Should you take the train?

Yes, if you are traveling between larger stations. The train also offers a way to get to Palenque, which is harder to reach and has roads with security concerns. Travelers can stow bicycles on board.

To see train times, check the destinations on the website . You cannot buy tickets online more than a week in advance. But when you finally board, the ride is smooth — and the coffee is excellent.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Thousands protest in Spain's Canary Islands over mass tourism

• Medium Text

Coming soon: Get the latest news and expert analysis about the state of the global economy with Reuters Econ World. Sign up here.

Reporting by Borja Suarez Writing by Ana Cantero Editing by Helen Popper

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

Terry Anderson, US journalist held hostage in Lebanon, dead at 76

Terry Anderson, a U.S. journalist who was held captive by Islamist militants for almost seven years in Lebanon and came to symbolize the plight of Western hostages during the country's 1975-1990 civil war, died on Sunday at age 76, his former employer the Associated Press said.

Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah said on Sunday it downed an Israeli drone that was on a combat mission in southern Lebanon.

Ecuadorean prison director Cosme Damian Parrales Merchan was killed on Sunday, the South American country's SNAI prisons agency said in a statement, even as citizens head to the polls to vote in a referendum over a raft of security measures.