Spain’s Most Overlooked City Named Country’s Cheapest Destination

Are you going to Spain this year?

If the answer is yes, then it’s likely a place you’ve done a hefty amount of research to avoid places where locals demand tourists go back where they came from.

At Travel Off Path, we’ve covered this globally renowned country end to end, from welcoming cities you may not have known to lesser-known islands without Ibiza’s off-putting untz-untzing.

We all grow out of that stage at some point, right?

There’s one city we’ve kicked ourselves over for not covering, and thanks to The Times‘ new insightful report, now we have an excuse.

Named as Spain’s cheapest city, this largely overlooked cultural phenomenon is only 45 minutes from Seville and 20 minutes from the coast.

Though with all the budget-friendly delights ranging from Flamenco dancing, sensational wine and tapas, and equestrian traditions, you’ll likely find yourself perfectly content without setting foot outside the city limits, wondering to yourself how Andalusia’s Jerez de la Frontera has remained a secret this long.

Day Trip Or Main Stay? Jerez Is Easy To Reach

Spain is one of Europe’s most connected countries. That’s why it’s shocking a place of Jerez de la Frontera’s magnitude is still off-radar for most travelers.

Commonly referred to as simply “Jerez” for those already in the loop on this city’s charm and unique appeal, the fact it’s so easy to reach only adds to the mystery as to why it remains so off-path.

Located in Spain’s sprawling Andalusia region, you can easily reach Jerez from Cadiz’s vibrant coast, just 20 minutes away or Europe’s newly crowned ‘best city’, Seville, just 45 minutes by train, which is one of the best ways to explore Spain with an eye-popping deal of just $250 for unlimited rail travel.

Jerez is home to a population of roughly 200,000 inhabitants, and there’s plenty to do and see — it’s no snoozefest.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, wine enthusiast, or simply a globetrotter tired of the same-o, same-o destinations hyped up by guidebooks, Jerez is for everyone, especially with its wallet-friendly pricing across the board.

While relatively unknown, if you were to pick only a handful of Spanish cities to visit and are especially concerned with overtourism protests, Jerez is still very welcoming toward tourists and happy to share their traditions, authentic way of life, and timeless attractions such as the Alcázar de Jerez fortress.

Travel Tip: Make sure you check out Travel Off Path’s new 1-minute travel checker — a one-stop shop to dot your I’s and cross your T’s for a seamless trip to Spain.

Discover Jerez’s Deep-Rooted Traditions

If you’ve had the chance to visit Granada or aforementioned Seville, then you might think either of those two are the birthplace of Flamenco.

Think again.

The origin of the Flamenco art form is none other than Jerez, and you won’t find many cookie-cutter performances like those in other major cities.

Here, it feels raw and spontaneous — something ingrained in the DNA of past generations, rather than an overpriced dinner with a center stage occupied by someone mimicking a knock-off performance.

In fact, Flamenco shows are largely defined by “tabancos”, which are essentially small taverns where locals commonly gather after long workdays.

The San Miguel neighborhood is among the best for these shows, but it’s not only Flamenco dancers you’ll find movin’ and groovin’ in this under-hyped city.

Believe it or not, horses put on a show too. Jerez is home to The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. As such, you’ll find what’s essentially equestrian ballet, guided by riders in traditional attire.

It’s truly a one-of-a-kind spectacle and one that should top your list before you head off to Cadiz or Seville.

Wine & Dine On The Cheap!

Spain isn’t always cheap, especially the household names with inflated tourist rates (hence the protests).

Jerez is an exception. The Times did a lot of the hard work for us, listing the following common purchases as very reasonable prices:

• Coffee – $1.30
• Dinner – $20
• Beer – $3.35
• Wine flight and charcuterie board – $12

Another specific staple to keep in mind is sherry, Jerez’s signature wine. There are ample selections often paired with savory tapas to snack on or loaded charcuterie boards.

One thing The Times didn’t go into detail on is hotels, except to recommend Hotel Villa Jerez, which doesn’t seem to hit the affordable mark with rates topping $200.

The timeless Barcelo boutique, Hotel Jerez Centro is a far better deal as it’s centrally located and ranked as a 4-star property for just $80 per night in late August.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.