If you plan a getaway to Andalusia, you must visit Arcos de la Frontera, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in the Sierra de Cádiz.
Arcos de la Frontera is the first town on the famous White Villages Route of the Sierra de Cádiz.
A mountain city converted into a Historical-Artistic Complex located in the province of Cádiz, about 60 km from the capital and just 100 km from Seville.
Throughout this article, we will discover the best places to see in Arcos de la Frontera so that you can make the most of your visit to this Cadiz town, the first stop on the route of the white cities of Cádiz.
We have been living in Cádiz for several months and touring the province on weekends.
After visiting Arcos de la Frontera, we do not doubt that it is one of the most beautiful towns in the area of Cádiz and one of the most charming towns in the Sierra de Grazalema.
Although Arcos de la Frontera is not part of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, it is considered the gateway to this unique nature reserve.
The origin of Arcos de la Frontera dates back to Roman times, although its true splendor began in Muslim times when it was an important fortress on the border between the Muslim and Christian kingdoms.
In the 15th century, the city was conquered by Castilian forces, which marked the end of the Muslim era in the city.
In the following centuries, Arcos de la Frontera experienced important urban and architectural development, constructing numerous churches, palaces, and public buildings in the baroque and neoclassical styles.
Today, Arcos de la Frontera is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, thanks to its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its impressive location on a cliff overlooking the Guadalete River.
But so that you can enjoy a complete experience during your trip, we have prepared this article with the best places to visit in Arcos de la Frontera (Churches, streets, viewpoints, squares, etc) and the best places to eat and accommodations.
What to see in Arcos de la Frontera
1. The historic center of Arcos de la Frontera is one of the best places to visit
The old town of Arcos de la Frontera is an architectural marvel, declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument, and considered one of the most beautiful in Andalusia.
The narrow, steep streets, white buildings, and houses with wrought iron balconies are impressive.
As you walk through the streets of the old town of Arcos de la Frontera, you will find the Church of San Pedro, the Plaza del Cabildo, and the Clock Tower, among other historical monuments that you have to visit in Arcos de la Frontera.
2. Plaza del Cabildo
The Plaza del Cabildo is the heart of the historic center of Arcos de la Frontera. The Town Hall was built in this square in the 17th century.
You can also admire the Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Asunción, now converted into the Parador Arcos de la Frontera.
Here is also the Mirador Plaza del Cabildo with a spectacular panoramic view, popularly known as the Mirador del Coño. Why?
Because everyone who visits Arcos de la Frontera and looks out at this viewpoint says, “Damn, what a view.”
3. Castillo ducal de Arcos
The Castillo ducal de Arcos is an impressive medieval structure that dominates the architectural landscape of Arcos de la Frontera.
You get a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding area from here. The castle has a keep and parade ground and is a great place to take photos.
4. Callejón de las Monjas is one of the most beautiful streets in Arcos de la Frontera
The Callejón de las Monjas is a narrow street that transports you to another time.
On this street, you can see some Mudejar-style houses and enjoy the tranquility breathed into them.
5. Mirador de la Peña Nueva, Mirados de Abades, and Mirador de la Plaza del Cabildo, the best places to enjoy the landscape of Arcos de la Frontera and its surroundings
The Mirador de la Peña Nueva is one of the city’s most impressive views.
From here, you can see the hills and the valley of the Guadalupe River. The Mirador de Abades offers an amazing panoramic view.
At the Mirador de la Plaza del Cabildo (O Mirador del Coño), you can enjoy the most popular image of Arcos de la Frontera.
Do not hesitate to visit all three because they offer three unique perspectives of Arcos of the Border and its landscape.
6. Parador de Arcos de la Frontera is the best place to sleep in Arcos de la Frontera
We loved enjoying its terrace with unbeatable views of Arcos de la Frontera, the Guadalete River, and the surrounding area.
The former Casa del Corregidor is located in the Plaza del Cabildo in the historic center of Arcos de la Frontera.
If you visit Arcos de la Frontera, don’t forget to have at least one coffee on the Parador’s terrace.
If you plan to sleep during your visit, the Parador Arcos de la Frontera is probably the best option to stay, although not the only one; the Hotel Posada de las Cuevas is also one of the most charming accommodations in Arcos de la Frontera.
If you prefer an apartment with a pool in the center, we recommend Esencia because it is one of the best value accommodations in Arcos de la Frontera.
We also really like the Atiko La Vista apartment for the views of the town of Arcos de la Frontera from its terrace.
7. Cuesta de Belén Arcos de la Frontera
La Cuesta de Belén is one of the most iconic streets in Arcos de la Frontera.
Its cobblestones and slope are witnesses of the passage of time and the city’s history.
On the slope are some of the oldest houses in Arcos de la Frontera, restaurants, shops, and the Tourist Office.
8. Convent of the Barefoot Mercedarias
The Convento de las Mercedarias Descalzas is a 17th-century convent in the old town of Arcos de la Frontera.
This convent houses an impressive church and cloister. It is a quiet and relaxing place to visit and learn about the history of Arcos de la Frontera.
9. Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Asunción, one of the essential places to see in Arcos de la Frontera
The Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Asunción is an impressive church in the city’s center.
This church is one of the most important religious structures in Arcos de la Frontera and has a bell tower and an impressive baroque altarpiece inside.
10. St. Peter’s Church
The Church of San Pedro is one of the most emblematic places in Arcos de la Frontera.
Located in the city’s historic center, this church is a magnificent example of Andalusian baroque architecture. We recommend including it in your visit to Arcos de la Frontera.
11. The Convent of San Agustín
The Convent of San Agustín is an impressive 15th-century religious building located in the city’s old town.
This convent houses a church with an impressive baroque altar and a cloister with beautiful columns and arches.
12. Nature of Arcos de la Frontera
Highlighting the natural beauty of the Andalusian region is the Peña de Arcos, on which the town stands.
This natural monument offers an elevated balcony with stunning views.
Another notable place is the Arcos reservoir, built in 1966, which has the Cola del Embalse de Arcos Natural Park, where there is an observatory for observing water birds.
In this reservoir is an artificial beach of Arcos de la Frontera, 250 meters long on the shore of the swamp, within the Cola del Pantano Natural Area, where you can practice water sports.
As we have mentioned before, very close to Arcos de la Frontera, you will find the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, where you can enjoy nature at your leisure.
What to do in Arcos de la Frontera?
Arcos de la Frontera is one of Andalusia’s most picturesque and beautiful cities.
Its cobblestone streets, white houses, and stunning views make it a must-see destination on any trip to this Andalusian region.
To make the most of your visit to Arcos de la Frontera, we recommend taking a guided tour of Arcos de la Frontera and thus get to know in depth the rich history that this town offers.
If you are looking for something more affordable, a free tour of Arcos de la Frontera is another option that will help you save time and avoid the frustration of getting to know the city on your own.
Swim on the artificial beach of Arcos de la Frontera and enjoy the sun and sand. This beach offers a relaxed and family atmosphere in the middle of nature.
You can also do one of the nearby trails like El Tajo de Arcos or Presa de Arcos.
Where to stay in Arcos de la Frontera?
Arcos de la Frontera is a beautiful city that offers a wide variety of accommodation.
If you want to be in the historic center of the city, we recommend that you look for accommodation in the hotels and tourist apartments that are located there.
Here, you can enjoy the typical Andalusian architecture and be close to the main tourist attractions of Arcos de la Frontera.
If you plan to sleep in the center during your visit, the Parador Arcos de la Frontera is probably the best option to stay in Arcos de la Frontera, although not the only one; the Hotel Posada de las Cuevas apartment with pool Esencia or the Atiko La Vista.
They are charming accommodations to sleep in, Arcos de la Frontera.
What beautiful towns to visit near Arcos de la Frontera?
Cádiz is one of the most beautiful and touristic provinces in Andalusia.
With a great variety of landscapes, from the coast’s beaches to the mountains and valleys of the interior, it offers a unique experience.
The city of Cádiz, with its historic center, is one of the province’s main attractions.
In addition, the province has other towns and cities full of history and beauty, such as Vejer de la Frontera, Medina Sidonia, Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa María, and the Route through the White Villages.
Within a route of the Sierra de Cádiz white towns, you cannot miss El Bosque, Setenil de las Bodegas, Grazalema, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra, and Benamahoma.
The most notable coastal places in Cádiz are Tarifa, El Palmar, Sanlucar de Barrameda, Rota, Chipiona, Chiclana, Zahara de los Atunes, Barbate, etc.
The province of Cádiz is a tourist destination that is worth visiting to discover the richness of its cultural and natural heritage.
Do not miss everything to see in Arcos de la Frontera and its surroundings.
Where should you park in Arcos de la Frontera?
There are several options if you are looking for parking in Arcos de la Frontera.
First, you can find street parking, but we don’t recommend it. It would be best if you remembered that it can be difficult to find a free space, the streets of Arcos de la Frontera are narrow and there are few parking spaces.
Another option is to use the city’s public parking lots. One of the most popular is the free parking on Avenida Duque de Arcos, which has many parking spaces, and you have to walk a bit to get to the center.
You can also use private parking services in the city, such as Parking El Paseo.
Some hotels offer free or paid parking for their guests, so it is important to check with your accommodation if this is the case.
Where to eat in Arcos de la Frontera?
Arcos de la Frontera is known for its delicious gastronomy, with typical dishes of the region such as gazpacho, almorejo, shrimp omelet, or oxtail.
We were at the Café Bar Restaurant El Santa María because it was one of the restaurants with a terrace in Arcos de la Frontera.
We followed the chef’s recommendations and thought the food was excellent.
But if you want to know more places to eat in Arcos, here we show you what are considered the five best restaurants in Arcos de la Frontera:
- Mamalupe Arcos (Mexican food)
- Gastro Bar El Retablo (Mediterranea)
- Aljibe Restaurant (Mediterranean-Moroccan)
- Pension Bar San Marcos (Mediterranean)
- La Parrila de Arcos (Mediterranean)
Thank you for coming this far, and we hope this article is very useful for organizing a perfect trip.
