Photo of Arcos de la Frontera

About Arcos de la Frontera

Perched on a limestone hill above the Guadalete River, Arcos de la Frontera is a charming historic community in magical Andalucía. Famed for its wonderful heritage architecture, it’s the first stop on the Route of the White Villages of Andalucía and a hugely popular destination. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to gorgeous boutique hotels, fit for an array of tastes and budgets. Check out our selection of the best places to stay in Arcos de la Frontera as you start planning your trip.

Dating back to the 11th Century, Arcos de la Frontera has a long, rich history. Now a Site of Cultural Interest, it’s well worth exploring with the help of an expert guide, or through a self-guided walking tour. Peer into ancient nooks and crannies, delve into the town’s Arab heritage, or stroll the labyrinthine cobbled streets of the old quarter, studded with convents, churches and palaces. Don’t miss the Basilica Menor de Santa Maria, the superb Ducal Castle — once an Islamic fortress — or the delightful Museo del Belen, just behind the Parador.

The town’s craggy hilltop location means that picturesque viewpoints abound — as do lovely bars for sundowners and a real sense of Andalusian culture. Join locals at a buzzy tapas bar, and savour a local tipple or two whilst listening to live music. Remember to book your trip well in advance, as the best places to stay in Arcos de la Frontera tend to fill up fast during the summer months.

The Best Places to Stay in Arcos de la Frontera

For a Central Stay

  • La Casa Grande, set in an 18th-century mansion near the heart of town, offers an affordable central base for those eager to explore the area on foot. Spacious, bohemian rooms are clad in earthy tones and set around a lovely plant-filled colonnaded courtyard. A charming hilltop spot, promising striking views.
  • Parador de Arcos de la Frontera is a sumptuous former magistrate's home with original features including Andalusian tiles, exposed wooden beams and a gorgeous burnt orange courtyard with arches and columns. A romantic hotel in Arcos, with a well-regarded restaurant specialising in regional cuisine.

For a Rural Escape

  • Hacienda el Santiscal is a lovingly restored 15th-century country house with swimming pool and gardens. Elegant, traditional interiors have terracotta tiles, wooden beams and warm, patterned textiles. A lovely rural escape for outdoorsy types. About 10 mins drive from the centre of town.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly into Jerez Airport, 22km from Arcos de la Frontera, or to Seville Airport, 75km away.
  • Andalucía is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit between June and September for temperatures ranging from 24°C - 30°C, but be aware that this is also peak season. For fewer crowds and great hotel deals, travel in April, May or late September.

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Best Hotels in Arcos de la Frontera

  • La Casa Grande Arcos de la Frontera 7 rooms from AU$137

    Value chic  -  Elegant Spanish style in this 18th-centruy hilltop home with astonishing views over Andalucia- at very reasonable rates
    Writing a novel  -  Instilled with a haunting beauty, Acros has been an inspiration to poets for years.
    Great walks  -  Wander the picturesque alleyways of Acros as they wind their way down the hillside.
    Sights nearby  -  Check out the castle, Santa Maria and San Pedro.
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays

    Delightful and majestic 18th century mansion, overlooking the valley in this historic hilltop village. Eclectic, bohemian interiors give the spacious rooms plenty of character. The hotel opens out around the central, colonnaded, plant-filled patio. Enjoy the views from the rooftop terrace. See More

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  • Hacienda el Santiscal Arcos de la Frontera (173 11638 El Santiscal) 12 rooms from AU$147

    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by ample gardens with local walking trails and nature reserves, this is an ideal country getaway
    Sights nearby  -  Head to the stunning town of Arcos de la Frontera nearby and visit its Arab castle and various monuments
    Restrictions on children  -  Children cannot be accommodated at the hotel
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Take a step back in time in this charmingly renovated 15th-century Andalusian hacienda surrounded by lovely gardens with an outdoor pool. Simple interiors are airy with original period features such as terracotta tiles and wooden beams, while bedrooms are elegant and traditional. See More

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  • Parador de Arcos de la Frontera Arcos de la Frontera (Cádiz) 24 rooms from AU$228

    Local exploring  -  Ideally situated for exploring charming Andalusian villages and their cuisine, castles and fine wine
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Arcos Old Town, Castillo de los Duques, San Pedro Church and Santa María de la Asunción Church
    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsNo pets

    Nestled by the castle in an idyllic village, this elevated former magistrate's home boasts stunning views. With original Andalusian features such as blue tiles, wooden beams, hardwood and antiques, and a lovely traditional Andalusian courtyard. Don't miss the restaurant's top-notch regional cuisine. See More

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  • Boutique Suites Arcos de la Frontera (Andalucia) 4 rooms from AU$274

    Sights nearby  -  Take a drive to the Parque Natural de Los Alcornocales for hiking, cycling, and horse riding amidst breathtaking natural beauty
    Riding  -  Head to Sanlúcar de Barrameda to witness the unique spectacle of horse racing on the beach and explore Donana National Park
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind on the stunning rooftop terrace, perfect for sipping a sundowner while gazing out over the charming rooftops of Arcos
    Local exploring  -  Explore Arcos de la Frontera, marvelling at historical landmarks like the Ducal Castle and ancient churches
    Air conditioningViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A charming adults-only B&B in the hilltop town of Arcos de la Frontera. Each suite is a stylish masterpiece featuring unique art, bold patterns, jazzy decor and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a breakfast of pastries and Jamón in the lounge and a roof terrace overlooking the city. A chic escape. See More

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