Arcos de la Frontera or Jerez de la frontera

The most direct route from Sevilla goes by Jerez de la Frontera, but if you’re not going to a bodega or the equestrian center, there’s not much reason to go there. Arcos de la Frontera is much smaller and has a great view from the Mirador Del Coño by the Iglesia de Santa María de la Asunción, or Mirador de Abades. There is a small parking lot by Asunción church. The road up to and then back down from the overlook is one way and very narrow. There are a couple 90 degree turns on the way down, so if you have anything but a compact car, park at the bottom and take the tram up. To me, other than the overlook there’s little else to see in the town. If you decide to go to Arcos and are taking back roads, assume you’ll be traveling at no more than 70kph/42mph. Roads will be in good repair but will only be 2-lanes, mostly without shoulders. Having lived in that area years ago, Arcos would be my choice.

Thank you for your input. Your Information is very helpful.

There used to be a horse dressage show in Jerez (sold out in advance) and sherry bodegas. It’s a more (low-rise) urban location than Arcos. Arcos is a bit touristy but attractive, less “to do.” We did Jerez as a day trip from Seville, Arcos on the way to Granada by car. My vote is for Arcos. Gibraltar is a very long drive.

Those two towns are indeed very different, so it totally depends on what you are interested in.

Arcos is one of those lovely white towns, very nice to walk around in.

Jerez is much larger, and beside the sherry bodega tour etc. we also went on a guided national park boat tour on the nearby Guadalquivir river which was really enjoyable and interesting.

The RS guide has a nice walking tour of Arcos. It is definitely more scenic than Jerez. It is best to park in the big lot at the bottom and either walk or take the tram up. Be sure to buy some cookies from the nuns to snack on later.

Another alternative stop is Cadiz.

Jerez for sure!