Jerez de la Frontera is about 25 miles inland from Seville and has a tremendous artistic heritage, as one of the birthplaces of the Flamenco. It’s a joy to explore its white-washed streets full of medieval churches and ornate palaces or learn about its equestrian tradition. The local horses (‘cartujanos’ in Spanish) are world-famous and can be seen at its annual Horse Fair.
Equestrian pride
Horses are the pride and joy of Jerez, and a visit to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art a highlight of any vacation here. Thoroughbred Andalusian horses are trained to perform spectacular dressage dances to music.
After attending a show, you can visit the adjacent Museo del Enganche and learn more about the history of Spanish equestrian equipment.
History comes to life
The town is full of history, with Andalusia part of the battleground between the Moors and Christians during the Reconquista period in the 15th century. Jerez’s 11th century fortress - Alcázar - is one of the city’s top visitor attractions. It’s one of Andalusia’s best-preserved forts and has a mosque-chapel and a defense tower, where visitors can enjoy views of the city. You can also see the 18th century Palace of Villavicencio, with its beautiful Moorish-era gardens.
Jerez Cathedral is another unmissable attraction, boasting a wonderful blend of architectural styles including baroque, neoclassical and Gothic. Once inside, make sure to check out Zurbarán’s gorgeous painting, La Virgen Niña. If you want to see a different side to Jerez, then Palacio Del Tiempo has over 300 antique clocks on display alongside Andalusian tapestries and frescoes.
Discover more about the city’s relationship with sherry, a Spanish wine-making tradition that goes back to the 11th century, with a guided tour of the city. If you want to take part in a tasting, remember to park your car at the hotel and head out on foot.
Dance all night
The traditional Spanish folk dance of Flamenco is believed to have started in Jerez and neighboring Seville, and you’ll soon discover that Flamenco is in Jerez’s blood. Visit Centro Andaluz De Flamenco to find everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this captivating dance form.
The Andalusian government stipulated that the dance is part of the region’s local identity. Flamenco is thus an integral part of Jerez's culture and political heritage. Visit local tabancos for the most authentic performances, a richly romantic experience.
Day trips from Jerez de la Frontera
If you’re spending a few days in Jerez and fancy a road trip, there are some beautiful destinations within driving distance. From Seville, the colorful Andalusian capital filled with orange groves and Moorish gardens, to small whitewashed hillside villages, all are easily accessible when you rent a car in Jerez.
Vejer is spectacularly located on the Andalusian hillside and overlooks the sea, making it a perfect day trip. With its romantic coastline, elegiac buildings, and excellent seafood, Cadiz is one of the most beautiful destinations on the Spanish coast. It takes about 40 minutes to drive to Cadiz from Jerez, and the views along the way are just sublime.
So, whether you’re passionate about horses or Spanish history, or you just want a wonderful, charismatic place to wander, Jerez is a fantastic base to explore southern Spain. Pick up your keys from us and start your Andalusian driving vacation today.