Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is an iconic city in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia, famous worldwide for three things: sherry (sherry wine), Andalusian horses, and flamenco. It is an elegant and authentic city that has preserved its identity and traditions.

The pearl of the province of Cádiz

The city's name, "Jerez de la Frontera," means "Jerez of the Frontier." This name was given to it because of its strategic position on the border between the Christian kingdoms and the Moorish kingdom of Granada during the medieval period. Its geographical location made it a cultural and commercial crossroads, which profoundly influenced its history and character.

It was under Muslim rule that it was named Xera or Sherish, the origin of the name "Sherry". The city was reconquered by King Alfonso X the Wise of Castile in 1264. Over the centuries, its economy developed around the production of wine, Sherry, and horse breeding, which became pillars of the economy and culture.

Visiting Jerez de la Frontera from Seville

• For a faster journey, we recommend the train. Numerous trains connect Seville's Santa Justa station to Jerez de la Frontera station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and tickets are affordable, especially if you book in advance. The train drops you off just a few minutes' walk from the city center, which is perfect for starting your visit without worrying about parking.
• Bus companies also provide service between the two cities. The journey is a little longer (about 1 hour 30 minutes ) but often cheaper than the train. Buses depart from the Prado bus station in San Sebastián, Seville, and arrive at the Jerez bus station, which is also conveniently located.
• Prefer freedom? Rent a car and take the AP-4 highway, which directly connects the two cities. The journey takes just over an hour.

Things to do in Jerez

• Visiting a sherry bodega is a must-do activity in Jerez. These bodegas, the large cellars where sherry ages, are veritable cathedrals of wine. Famous names like Tio Pepe (Gonzalez Byass), Lustau, and Sandeman offer guided tours that immerse you in the history of this unique wine's production, from vine to bottle. The tour usually ends with a tasting, allowing you to discover the richness of the different sherry styles, from the dry Fino to the sweet Pedro Ximénez.

• Attending an equestrian show : the Andalusian horse is one of Jerez's prides. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art (Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre) is world-renowned. Its shows are a marvel of grace and dexterity, where classical dressage blends with traditional Spanish music.

• Discover flamenco : Jerez is a cradle of flamenco, with its peñas (flamenco associations) and neighborhoods where this art form originated. The Andalusian Flamenco Center (Centro Andaluz de Flamenco) is an excellent introduction to the history and culture of this art. For a more authentic experience, attending a show in a tablao or local peña is highly recommended.
• Explore the historic center : the heart of Jerez is a labyrinth of narrow streets, shaded squares, and flower-filled patios. The Alcázar of Jerez, a medieval fortress of Moorish origin, and the Cathedral of San Salvador, with its Baroque and Neoclassical style, are must-see monuments. The market square (Plaza del Arenal) is the heart of social life, a lively place where you can sit and people-watch.

Jerez de la Frontera is a destination to be savored, where it is good to take the time to get lost, to soak up the atmosphere and to discover the traditions that make up the charm of Andalusia.