City Guide: Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera is a city in the South of France, close to Cadiz and Sevilla. In this extensive city guide, we’ll explain what you should see and why visiting is worth it!
If you happen to visit the South of Spain, there are a couple of cities that are totally worth visiting. These are including Córdoba, Marbella, Seville, Cadiz and also Gibraltar, even though you have to cross a border for visiting. Jerez de la Frontera on the other hand is often overlooked, but absolutely worth visiting as well. The location right between Cadiz and Seville also makes the city very convenient for visiting on a road trip through the area!
Visiting the Alcazar and Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera
Two spots you definitely shouldn’t miss in Jerez de la Frontera are the Cathedral and the Alcázar, both located in the immediate city center. The historic palace was probably built in the 11th century and is one of the Spanish Properties of Cultural Interest.
The massive castle walls are fascinating from outside, but the gardens and structures inside are at least as stunning. Visiting times can be limited however, so be aware to check before going to Jerez de la Frontera. You also have to pay an entrance fee for visiting.
The same is true for the fascinating Cathedral of Jerez de la Frontera, which is located right next to the historic palace. While visiting the cathedral from the inside is also very interesting, I’d say that even seeing it from outside is already quite a highlight.
It’s a very different structure than many other churches I’ve seen in the past, for example in Paris or Rome.
You can take very nice pictures particularly during sunset, when the city is light up very nicely.
Generally, the whole area around the Cathedral and the Alcázar are definitely worth spending some time at as this really is the most historic part of town, but still is very lively today. There are also a couple of really nice parks, including the Alameda Vieja.
Once you have seen the two landmarks, I’d recommend continuing to the historic city center, which definitely is worth checking out as well!
Charming streets and historic buildings in Jerez
Visiting Jerez de la Frontera felt less touristic than I would have expected, particularly in the city center, where dozens of restaurants are spread out with large outside areas. I could basically only hear Spanish, so everything felt very local and charming – much more so than in Barcelona or Madrid.
Visiting Jerez de la Frontera felt less touristic than I would have expected, particularly in the city center, where dozens of restaurants are spread out with large outside areas. I could basically only hear Spanish, so everything felt very local and charming – much more so than in Barcelona or Madrid.
Generally, I found walking through the city to be a fascinating experience as there are just so many beautiful squares, all with historic charm on the one hand, but an incredible liveliness on the other hand.
The heart of the city is the Plaza del Arenal, which is where you can usually find huge crowds. It’s definitely worth seeing as it also is home of many monuments, but I personally preferred the smaller squares around.
With most of the historic city center being a pedestrian zone, walking through the streets is a really nice experience, particularly as you can spot several historic buildings left and right.
There are also several shops with international chains being present as much as local vendors.
You can also find a couple of charming boutique hotels in the city center.
Aside from the cathedral of Jerez, you can also find a couple more interesting churches throughout the city, if that is something you are interested in.
One of the more charming buildings a little outside the immediate city center also is the Real Convento de Santo Domingo, which I’d recommend stopping by.
Generally speaking, I don’t think that you have to particular follow a map when visiting Jerez de la Frontera as you will spot most nice areas by just walking through the city.
The historic city center isn’t particularly large and pretty much all streets are quite charming!
Exploring the Cartuja de Jerez de la Frontera
Another really fascinating spot in Jerez de la Frontera is the Cartuja, also known as the Charterhouse. Being another Spanish Property of Cultural Interest, the Charterhouse is a must-visit when in Jerez.
Be aware that it’s about ten kilometers outside the city center, but the location makes it particularly charming.
The monastery still is partly in use and has a long tradition. You don’t have to take a lot of time to visit, but at least seeing the fascinating architecture is a great experience.
If you have a car, visiting is very easy, but there is also public transportation in case you don’t.
Sherry, horses and other things worth noting about Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera is not only about the historic city and fascinating buildings, but also a lot about culture. Known for its Andalusian horses and particularly the riding school, you may also come here to see one of the performances, which are supposed to be among the most fascinating worldwide. Another highlight in town the sherry production.
Whether you are a fan or not, you are supposed to try at least one sherry tasting here as Jerez is the hometown of this particularl alcohol. Until today, lots of sherry is produced in Jerez de la Frontera and the quality is supposed to really great.
Overall impressions of Jerez de la Frontera
Before visiting, I wasn’t really sure what to expect of Jerez de la Frontera, but after having been there, I can highly recommend visiting. Jerez has a lot of charm, doesn’t feel overly touristic and comes with tons of history. If you are interested in historic city centers and places of cultural interest, Jerez de la Frontera should be a must-visit when in Andalusia!
Do you have any questions about Jerez de la Frontera? Feel free to ask or share your impressions in the comments!
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