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Living in the small town of Rota was so special and is a small slice of the wonderful region of Andalucía. I always try to embrace where I live and still achieve a sense of travel wherever I am. Day and weekend trips are the perfect way to do that. Thankfully, there are numerous day trips from Rota, Spain if you find yourself needing a change of scenery. From cities, to the coast to small towns set in the hills I hope you find your next travel day.
Jerez de la Frontera
An easy and quick 25-30 minute drive from Rota, Spain. If you are short on time, this is the perfect day trip from Rota, Spain. Start your day with Churros at Cafeteria Churreria Julio Alacant, tour the Alcazar, visit a bodega and eat lunch or dinner at one of their amazing restaurants (Las Banderillas for an authentic vibe, or Bar Juanito for beautiful alley ambiance). There are so many options for food in this city!
A Complete Guide to ide to Jerez de la Frontera
Cádiz
Only 40 minute drive away, this beautiful and (in my opinion) underrated city is very accessible from Rota. Filled with history, a grand cathedral, parks, gardens and beautiful ocean views. Cádiz is a small city so take advantage of walking the narrow streets, shopping local or vintage stores and lunch or dinner at the beautiful Restaurante Café Royalty. It is the perfect place to enjoy the local market and take in the plazas (my two favorite are Plaza de las Flores and Plaza del Mentidero in the Spring.
Arcos de la Frontera
Although this is on a list of day trips from Rota, Spain it should be noted all of these places would make a wonderful weekend away or even a simple overnight, Arcos is no exception. In fact, I encourage you to stay for the night! We stopped by this quaint town for an afternoon and immediately new I needed to head back. Thankfully we booked a night close to Christmas creating the perfect trip to see the town in a different light. Make sure to eat at the well-known Aljibe Restaurante, climb the tower of the cathedral, and of course visit the famous picturesque spot Mirador de Abades and arch.
Conil de la Frontera
Head to this small town for pottery, ocean views and enjoy the small Old Town. Conil felt laid back, felt like a small town in California and wasn’t too crowded when we went in the Fall. Enjoy breakfast at La Aldea Cafe Brunch, coffee at the cool MALCAFĒ coffee & deli before you shop vintage at Dakota Vintage. You can stop by the art gallery, It’s Only Water, and have lunch at La GARRA. On your way home, make sure to stop at Ceramica Ramirez too. Want to make it an overnight? You can glamp at Taiga Conil not too far from the town center.
Tarifa
Where else can you stand between the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea? Known for water sports specifically wind surfing, the seaside town has views of Morocco on a clear day (you can hop on a ferry to visit as well). Have coffee and a light breakfast at Espresso bar Numero C, tour the castle, peruse the many shops (Azogue Art & Vintage and Moroccan Home are two favorits) and eat a meal at El Lola.
Vejer de la Frontera
One of the most well known of the “pueblo blancos” and for good reason! Make a reservation at El Jardín del Califa or Fez Vejer, walk around the Plaza de Espana, visit La Caja – Galería de Arte or peruse the San Fransisco Gastronomic Market for a snack. The church and iconic photo spot of Arcos de la Judería are a must as well.
A Day Trip to Vejer de la Frontera Guide
Olvera
Start your day at La Plaza de Iglesia to enjoy the Olvera sign, take in the castle views, then head inside to purchase your tickets that admit you to the castle and museum. Follow the museum by making your way to Calle Llana where you will truly see the beauty of the small Spanish town. Every street and corner has Gorgeous flowers still in bloom or pots hung on the white washed walls.
I recommend l lunch at La Tarara Neotaberna situated on Calle Llana – affordable yet incredible menu options.
Take in a broader view of the town’s skyline (the church, the castle and white houses on the mountainside) and climb up to the monument. There is a wonderful lookout to see the area from a different view – you will be glad you made the climb up!
The Perfect Afternoon in Olvera
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