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Jerez de la Frontera is often given the ever so frequent title of “day trip”. Although you can see a majority of the entire city in one day (to a degree) I would argue you can’t get the full experience of what the city is known for. Many tourists flock to the Spain region of Andalusia, and rightfully so. The flowers in bloom, pots strung against the walls, pueblos blancos and gorgeous iconic cities filled to the brim with history.
Hamman baths, Sherry tasting, deep roots in the art of Flamenco, late dinner reservations, breathtaking architecture and frequenting Tabancos make a visit to Jerez most ideal.
Tips for visiting Jerez de la Frontera
Language: Spanish is the main language spoken and although some people may know English I would brush up on a few key phrases.
Currency: The Euro is used in all of Spain but most places take credit card.
Restaurants: As you will notice if you’ve been traveling around the country, most lunch places don’t open until 1pM and dinner closer to 8PM. I find it best to ask when the kitchen opens (as they may be open on google maps, but only for drinks). Call and reserve ahead of time if possible.
Getting to Jerez de la Frontera
Flying into Jerez de la Frontera is the best option – it has a smaller airport that I have flown in and out of a few times. Sevilla is about an hour away and little larger – you may find cheaper flights through there.
Another option is flying into Madrid and taking a 3.5 hour train ride into the city if you want to stick to more direct flights and enjoy taking the train. The train station in Jerez is also beautifully designed.
If you are driving to Jerez de la Frontera, there are numerous parking garages scattered throughout the city, I always park here. It is affordable and usually not too crowded.
Jerez de la Frontera: Where to stay
Jerez de la Frontera now has two 5 star hotels and I see the accommodation scene slowly making a name for themselves. Here are my recommendations in Jerez de la frontera for you to consider when you visit:
Hotel Bodega Tío Pepe
This is the first Sherry hotel and you really get to feel the heart and soul of the city just by staying there. As I lean into slower travel I realize that where I stay is of big importance. The rooftop pool with views of the cathedral and gorgeous courtyard restaurant are a few of the reasons to stay here. Not to mention, a wonderful hotel breakfast.
Hotel Casa Palacio María Luisa
Former home to the Jerez Casino and one of the only Five Star luxury hotels in the city. So if a lavish stay is what you want, this is where you should book. As one can imagine, they have gorgeous spaces such as their terrance, rooftop solarium pool and restaurant.
Astuto Jerez Boutique
Quietly tucked away in Jerez’s old town this adults-only hotel is a great affordable option if you still appreciate design, a pool to cool off in and the real star of the show – their rooftop bar. If you aren’t a guest at the hotel, you can still have a drink and enjoy the views in the evening.
Suites Alfonso X
If you prefer suites and apartment style hotels, Alfonso X is for you. Just beyond the Old Town (but walkable to everything) these suites are beautifully designed and thought out. They have a gorgeous pool and everything stocked for you to make a wonderful breakfast and enjoy the art of slow travel.
Jerez de la Frontera: Where to Eat
Cafeteria Churreria Julio Alacant
When in Spain, breakfast is much simpler and not the main meal of the day. Their breakfast often consists of a Mollete (popular bread), butter, jam, tomato or ham, and if you’re lucky, churros. This place is one of my go-to’s for a classic churro Spanish breakfast complete with coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice.
Cafetería La Guinda
The perfect traditional cafe situated in a calm plaza where you can enjoy your breakfast in the heart of old town.
La Pirulina Coffee
Only open past 4pm, this is a great “pick me-up” spot for coffee and dessert crepes. Head here if you are waiting on a dinner reservation as they are much later in Spain.
Bar & Restaurante Albores
Visit for either lunch or dinner – a wonderful twist on traditional Spanish food in the center of the city. They have a vast variety of meats and seafood. Albores’ kitchen is open before 1PM, if you are limited on time.
Restaurante Mantua
If you want an incredible fine dining experience, I recommend Restaurante Mantua. With two different tasting menus and the option to choose an additional Sherry tasting, you will be amazed at the level of service and innovative dishes from this Michelin restaurant.
Las Banderillas
Eating at Las Banderillas is an authentic and lively experience. Close to 10PM and I made my way to the crowded bar for some patatas bravas and Vino Tinto (both exceptional, by the way). Here you will find traditional tapas from Andalucian such as croquetas, pulpo a la plancha con patatas and much more.
Bar Juanito
A tapas bar set in a beautiful almost hidden walkway – head here for lunch and a drink before visiting the Alcazar.
Restuarante Mulai Jerez
Neighbors to Bar Juanito (above), they offer local cuisine with a bit of Asian flare to their menu.
La Carboná
On the Michelin Guide, this place has a wonderful ambience as it was a winery prior to opening as a restaurant. You are instantly transported into a Sherry Bodega the moment you step in. You can order unique small plates and entrees or partake in their tasting menu. I had their Conil tomato tartar sautéed in vine shoots and guacamole as well as their creamy vegetable rice, wild boar sirloin, and black truffle – both excellent. Next time I plan to opt for their tasting menu (drinks are included)! They have stellar wine list also. Head here for a nicer lunch or perfect date night.
Jerez de la Frontera rooftop bars
One of the best ways to a city at sunset (in my humble opinion), is from a rooftop. The glass of wine, or mocktail or even soda, is just a bonus. My two recommendations for a beautiful view are La Azotea de ASTUTO on the rooftop of Astuto Jerez Boutique Hotel and the terrace on ESZENTRICO Suites with stunning views of El Gallo Azul and San Miquel Church.
Jerez de la Frontera: What to See & Do
Sherry tasting at a Bodega
When traveling to Jerez de la Frontera you are in the heart of Sherry land. I do think taking a tour and tasting a few sherries is a “must do” but I understand prioritizing what makes sense for you. Jerez de la Frontera is part of the Sherry Triangle (the other corners being Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlucar). Sherry is fortified wine and must be from this region of Spain. Sherry is to Jerez as Champagne is to the Champagne region in France – I think you get the idea.
While you are in this area why not enjoy what it is known for? If you need a suggestion – head to a tour with González Byass. On their property is a street that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and you can’t access it unless on their grounds. The property as a whole is stunning and they do a wonderful job explaining the history and traditions of the city.
Arab Baths Hammam Andalusi
If you need to wait to check into your hotel why not plunge into some cold water than relax in a hot or warm bath? Complimentary tea is provided, and you can choose to only take part in the baths, or have a massage after as well. If you are traveling with a group, you can also enjoy dinner on their roof with a gorgeous view of the Cathedral.
Experience the Tabancos at night
When I wander Jerez during the day, I always see the closed Tabanco bars with stacked chairs waiting for the night life to begin. Tabancos are sherry bars where you can grab small snacks and of course, sherry along with other beverages. A great way to experience the night live in the city. There are a few of these bars scattered around the core of the downtown, and are an ideal place to gather before a dinner reservation. It seems silly to give recommendations, because you will see many when wandering through the streets of the Old Town.
Flamenco Show
Although I have yet to attend a Flamenco show (in Jerez), Flamenco has strong ties in the city. If you want to see one while in Spain – it is a great place to do so! Sevilla may claim to be the start of this dance, but Jerez de la Frontera has given immensely to this art.
Mercado central de abastos
If you have been traveling through Spain, you may have noticed all cities have a Mercado filled with meats, cheeses, fish, fruits, vegetables and more. Jerez is no exception. The building itself is beautiful. A flower stand perched right outside, and multiple restaurants busy with people enjoying their terraces and some churros.
Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera
The Alcazar in Sevilla gets most of the attention, but if you can’t make it to Sevilla may I suggest the one in Jerez de la Frontera? The gardens are much smaller, but I still found every part of it to be beautiful with so much history. It is a great place to get a feel of the city that it was.
Plaza de la Asunción
Perhaps one one my favorite views is walking from Plaza de Yerba into Plaza de la Asunción. Here you will find the Old Town Hall in all it’s splendor (and is the only building entirely preserved in Jerez).
Shop at vintage and thrift shops
Jerez is not necessarily known for thrifting, but I do think it is the perfect place to find a souvenir. Make your way to Underground vintage kiloshop for art, dishes and on the top floor – clothes. Another smaller place to look for clothes and home items is Tienda Solidaria Madre Coraje.
If you hope to buy some books, Planeta ZOCAr is incredible. A maze of books and the sweetest owner who will help guide you with your purchase. They have books in Spanish and English.
An experience I hope to have soon is the Jerez Antique Flea Market on Sundays. If you are visiting the city on the weekend this may be the perfect place to pick up a keepsake for your time in Spain.
Cathedral
Like many Spanish Old Towns, you can always find a stunning Cathedral to visit. I personally love the one in Jerez, especially from afar (like when you climb the fortress walls at the Alcazar). You can visit the inside and also climb up to the bell tower for more stunning views of the city.
El Gallo Azul
From the same architect as the Plaza de Espana in Spain, this to me, feels like the “icon” of the city. You can eat tapas or have drinks at their beautiful bar (make reservations for the balcony on the top floor).
Monumento a Lola Flores
This monument is to remember the beloved María Dolores Flores Ruiz, also known as Lola who was an actress, singer and dancer from Jerez. The statue is set in the San Miguel neighborhood, a tranquil part of the city with strong Flamenco roots.
Iglesia de San Miguel
Not too far from the Lola Flores monument above, is a beautiful Renaissance-era church. I personally have never visited, but I love to photograph it with Calle San Miguel in the forefront.
PIN for your trip to Jerez de la Frontera:
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