What to do in Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera, located in the province of Cadiz, is a city full of charm and character. Known for its close relationship with Sherry wine, Andalusian horses, and flamenco, Jerez offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you have just one day to explore the city or a whole weekend, this article will help you discover all the wonders that Jerez has to offer.

Things to see and do in Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and diverse experience. From its historical monuments to its vibrant flamenco culture, this city has something for all tastes. Here are some of the must-see activities and places you can’t miss:

Must-see experiences in Jerez de la Frontera

Visit a flamenco tablao

Flamenco is one of the greatest cultural treasures of Andalusia, and Jerez de la Frontera is one of its cradles. Visiting a flamenco tablao is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the passionate music and dance of flamenco. “Tabanco El Pasaje” is one of the most emblematic places to enjoy an authentic flamenco show while sipping a glass of Sherry wine. The intimate atmosphere and the talent of the artists will leave you speechless.

Enjoy a tapas route through the city

Gastronomy is a fundamental part of Jerez culture, and one of the best ways to get to know it is through a tapas route. Tour the city’s bars and taverns, tasting delicious tapas ranging from traditional “pescaíto frito” to more innovative dishes. You can’t miss a visit to the Restaurant Casa Fundador, where you can pair your tapas with the exquisite Fundador brandy, thus elevating your gastronomic experience to another level.

Andalusian horse dance show

The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of classical dressage, an art that has Andalusian horses as its main protagonists. These majestic animals, known for their elegance and skill, dazzle in unique shows where they perform impressive choreographies that combine art and technique in an incomparable setting. In addition, it offers guided tours that allow you to explore the history and equestrian tradition of the region up close, including the stables, the riding school and the museum, which houses fascinating collections of carriages and objects related to the world of horses. To fully enjoy this unforgettable experience, we recommend booking tickets in advance.

Discover the Magic of the Jerez Horse Fair

The Jerez Horse Fair, one of the most emblematic festivities in Spain, is an event that celebrates the rich equestrian and flamenco heritage of the region. Each year, thousands of visitors gather in González Hontoria Park to enjoy horse parades, dressage contests, flamenco shows and lively booths. For a week in May, Jerez transforms into a vibrant mosaic of colors, music and dance, where the best tapas and wines of the area are savored. In this setting of tradition and joy, the Fundador booth stood out in the 2024 edition, winning the prestigious award for the best booth at the event. With a decoration that fused contemporary elegance with Andalusian touches and a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, the Fundador booth offered attendees an unparalleled culinary and sensory experience.

The best of the city

Jerez de la Frontera has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Next, we show you the most outstanding places and monuments that you must visit to deeply understand this fascinating city.

Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera

The cathedral of Jerez, known as the Cathedral of the Savior, is a majestic building that combines Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Its impressive facade and captivating interior will transport you to another era. The cathedral houses numerous works of art, including paintings and sculptures of great historical and cultural value. Don’t forget to climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Alcazar of Jerez de la Frontera

The Alcazar of Jerez is a stunning fortified palace of Almohad origin dating from the 12th century. This historic monument offers a fascinating insight into the history of Jerez and its various occupations over the centuries. Stroll through its courtyards, gardens and towers, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top of the walls. Don’t forget to visit the mosque, which was later converted into a church, and the Arab baths.

Central Market of Abastos

The Central Market of Abastos is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local life of Jerez. This market, full of color and vitality, offers a wide variety of fresh products, from fruits and vegetables to fish and seafood. It is the ideal place to buy typical ingredients of the region and enjoy the authentic cuisine of Jerez. In addition, in the market you will find tapas stalls where you can delight in local flavors while observing the hustle and bustle of the market.

Zoobotánico Jerez

The Zoobotánico Jerez is one of the oldest zoos in Spain and houses a great diversity of animals and plants. This place is ideal for a family visit, as it offers an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Stroll through its extensive gardens and discover exotic species of animals and plants, many of which are endangered. The zoobotanical garden also has conservation and environmental education programs.

Church of San Miguel

The Church of San Miguel is another of the architectural treasures of Jerez. This temple, which combines Gothic and Baroque styles, is known for its impressive main altarpiece and its beautiful stained glass windows. The church also houses numerous chapels and altars dedicated to different saints and virgins. Walking through its interior is an enriching experience that will allow you to appreciate the art and religious devotion of the city.

Carthusian Monastery of Santa María de la Defensión

The Carthusian Monastery of Santa María de la Defensión is an old Carthusian monastery located on the outskirts of Jerez. This monument, which combines Gothic and Renaissance styles, is a serene and historic place. Here you can visit the church, the cloister and other monastic spaces that will transport you to past times. The monastery also has a beautiful garden where you can enjoy moments of peace and tranquility.

Basilica of La Merced

The Basilica of La Merced is one of the most important temples in Jerez. This imposing Baroque building houses the patron saint of the city, the Virgin of La Merced. The basilica is a place of great devotion for the people of Jerez and its architecture and decoration are truly impressive. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the chapel of the Virgin and admire its exquisite details.

Arenal Square

Arenal Square is the heart of Jerez and one of its liveliest places. This large square is a meeting point for locals and visitors and is surrounded by bars, restaurants and shops. From here, you can start exploring the old town of Jerez and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The square also hosts events and activities throughout the year, so there is always something interesting to see and do.

Long Street

Long Street is the main shopping artery of Jerez and a perfect place to enjoy a walk. This pedestrian street is full of shops, cafes and boutiques, and is ideal for shopping or simply relaxing and people watching. Walking along Long Street will allow you to feel the pulse of the city and discover its more modern and cosmopolitan side.

Church of Santo Domingo

The Church of Santo Domingo is another impressive example of Jerez’s religious architecture. This temple, which combines Gothic and Renaissance styles, is known for its elegant facade and beautiful interior. The church houses numerous works of art and is a place of great devotion for the people of Jerez. Walking through its interior will allow you to appreciate the historical and cultural richness of Jerez.

Tour the Santiago neighborhood

The Santiago neighborhood is one of the most authentic neighborhoods in Jerez and is known for its deep connection with flamenco. Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets will allow you to discover the true essence of Jerez and immerse yourself in its flamenco culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of the neighborhood’s flamenco venues and enjoy an unforgettable night of singing and dancing.

Extra experiences: Get to know the Jerez circuit and the Motor Museum

For lovers of the motor world, Jerez de la Frontera offers a unique and unparalleled experience. The Jerez Circuit, known for hosting top-level competitions, is a must-visit for speed enthusiasts. Here you can enjoy exciting motorcycle and car racing events, and you can also take guided tours to get a close look at the circuit and its facilities.

In addition, the Motor Museum, located on the circuit itself, is a treasure for lovers of historic vehicles. The museum houses an impressive collection of cars and motorcycles that have made their mark in motor history. From racing vehicles to classic models, the museum offers a fascinating visit that will transport you through the evolution of motoring.

Visit a winery if you are passionate about wine tastings

Jerez de la Frontera is world famous for its wines, especially the wine of Jerez. If you are a lover of good wine, a visit to a traditional winery is an experience you cannot miss. One of the most emblematic wineries in the city is Bodegas Fundador, a place where history, tradition and innovation intertwine to offer you a unique experience.

At Bodegas Fundador you can enjoy a guided tour that will take you through the old facilities and allow you to learn about the process of making wine and brandy. The expert guides will share with you the rich history of the winery and its importance in the region. In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in a tasting where you can sample some of the best wines and brandies from Jerez. The combination of flavors, aromas and textures will make this experience unforgettable.

We hope this guide has provided you with a complete overview of everything Jerez de la Frontera has to offer. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its vibrant gastronomic scene and exciting activities, Jerez is a city worth exploring in depth.

Come and discover for yourself everything this wonderful Andalusian city has to offer!