Jerez de la Frontera Spain - Sightseeing

1. Bodegas

You haven't really visited Jerez if you haven't visited a bodega. Only wine from this region may bear the official name 'sherry'. The typical 'fortified' white wine owes its taste to the unique combination of the calcareous soil, the grape varieties and the abundance of sun in this region. In Jerez there is an abundance of large wineries, the so-called 'Bodegas', each of which wants to show you the pride of their tradition through tours and tastings.

The better-known bodegas are Tio Pepe (Gonzalez Byass), Sandeman, Fundador, Lustau, Tradicion and Luis Perez. Recommended is bodega Tio Pepe (González Byass) (Tip: book your tour online for Tio Pepe - González Byass), located next to the Alcazar castle in the center. For example, Tio Pepe bodega is the best-known and most visited bodega, partly because of its beautiful historic grounds. If you don't know which bodega to choose, Tio Pepe (González Byass) is definitely the best choice.

2. Alcazar

The Alcazar of Jerez de la Frontera is a former Moorish fortress. The first fortress was built in the 11th century when the city was part of the small kingdom of the Taifa of Arcos de la Frontera. After the conquest by the Almohads, the castle was further expanded in the 12th century. Some doors from the original Islamic fortress have been preserved, as well as the mosque, the Arab baths, the octagonal tower and the patio of Doña Blanca.

Another attraction in a tower of the Alcazar is the 'camera osbcura'. Under the guidance of a guide, you will have the opportunity to look around the city 360 in a very special way for fifteen minutes; highly recommended to participate during your visit to the castle.

3. Fundación Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre

This is the Spanish dressage school, founded in 1973, with the aim of showing and teaching traditional dressage and the famous Andalusian horse. Since 1987, the driving school has been nicknamed 'Royal'. Most tourists come here for the horse show that is performed here twice a week. Riders dressed in 18th century clothing demonstrate their riding skills to Spanish music.

📌 Recommended: The show "How the Andalusian Horses Dance" consists of six to eight different choreographies (including classical, horse and carriage, and Doma Vauqera) with a high entertainment value. Tickets for the hour and a half show cost 25 euros and must be purchased at this website. Always try to reserve these tickets in advance! The shows are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:00 PM, and once a month on Saturdays). If you are in Jerez on another day, there is also the option of a tour of the buildings and stables of the Spanish riding school (more information and book a tour).

4. Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera

The cathedral of Jerez 'Catedral de Nuestro Señor San Salvador' was built in the 12th century, but underwent major adjustments in the 17th century, making the architectural style a mix of Baroque, Gothic and Neoclassical style. The light from the majestic dome is striking. During the visit to the Catholic cathedral you will also have access to the treasuries of the church. The great pride of the cathedral, in addition to all kinds of religious relics, is the painting of 'La Virgen Niña' by painter Zurbarán (book tickets with audio guide).

5. Flamenco Shows

Jerez is considered the "Cradle of the Art of Flamenco" and has produced many singers, dancers and musicians. For example, the academy for Flamenco is located in Jerez (Centre de Baile Jerez). In the center you have many options to attend a flamenco performance in the evening in so-called 'Tablaos'. Some examples of this are:

Tablao Puro Arte (C / Conocedores 28). This is the option if you want a fully catered evening out. From 30 euros you can enjoy an extensive (perhaps a bit touristy) flamenco show and for a small additional charge you can combine your visit with a meal or tapas. Book Puro Arte Flamenco Show

Tabanco El Pasage (C / Santa Maria 8). This bar offers free flamenco shows when you come to eat. Daily at 2:00 pm and 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 2:00 pm and 10:00 pm. More info: tabancoelpasaje.com.

6. Feria del Caballo

Are you visiting Jerez de la Frontera in early May? Then you are lucky to experience the city's most important festival. During the festive week of 'Feria del Caballo', sherry, horses and flamenco are the main protagonists. Enjoy the most beautiful caparisoned Andalusian horses, traditional clothing and the many stalls (casetas) with the tastiest tapas for a week. The Feria del Caballo is held on the grounds of the Parque González Hontoria.

7. Palacio del Virrey Laserna

The luxurious palace 'Palacio del Virrey Laserna' is located in the historic center of Jerez. The Viceroy Laserna Palace offers the opportunity to walk around a lived-in noble house and discover the lifestyle and history of a family dating back to the 13th century. The neoclassical palace offers spacious rooms, with beautiful decoration and an unparalleled collection of classical furniture and valuable paintings. It represents the grand way of life of the Andalusian aristocracy. You can visit the palace with a guided tour with an English guide (Address Calle Pozuelo 8) (more information and book a tour).

8. San Miguel Church

This 15th century Baroque church of San Miguel in the center of the city is characterized by a beautiful facade and an interior with many beautiful details. Many visitors find this church more beautiful than the large cathedral of Jerez. Can be visited from Monday to Friday morning for only 2 euros.

9. Zoobotanico

Not from the center you will find the 'Zoobotanico', a park with more than 60,000 m2 of zoo and botanical gardens. By foreign standards, the Zoobotanico park may look a bit dated (website).

10. Archaeological Museum

On the Plaza de la Mercado, the Museo Arqueológico Municipal de la Frontera, or the city's archaeological museum, is located in an 18th century building. The collection contains finds from the region, spread over nine rooms including Roman ceramics and an extremely rare Corinthian helmet from the Copper Age.

11. La Cartuja - Carthusian Monastery

Just outside Jerez (5 km) is a beautiful Carthusian monastery from the 15th century in late Gothic style. It is a monastery with a striking entrance gate, beautiful facades and a beautiful chapel. Admission is free and open Monday to Saturday (9:30 am - 11:15 am and 12:45 pm - 6:30 pm).