Things to see and do in Tarifa

 

One of the main tourist destinations during the summer in our country is Tarifa, a coastal town located south of Cadiz, very close to Africa, which is notable for being the southernmost point of the European continent.

Synonymous with good weather, Tarifa is a paradise for lovers of water sports such as surfing or kitesurfing because its beaches are lashed by the Levante wind, which makes them the perfect conditions for practicing these sports.

IIdeal for spending a few days of disconnection surrounded by beaches, nature and a lot of history, FRS offers the Tangier Ville–Tarifa ferry route which, with a crossing of approximately one hour, is the shortest route between Spain and Morocco.

It is one of the most popular routes, and here we show you what to see in Tarifa, so that you can enjoy all the attractions offered by this emblematic Andalusian city.

If you would like to visit it, here are some things to do in Tarifa during your stay.

 

 

What to see in Tarifa? 10 things you absolutely have to do

 

As you will see, there are so many things to do in Tarifa that, if you don't have much time, it can be difficult to organize your itinerary.

Therefore, so you can see the most important places and monuments, we show you what to visit in Tarifa and what activities to do.

 

1. Guzmán el Bueno Castle

One of our favorite places is the Castle of Guzman el Bueno (Guzman the Good), which has dominated the city of Tarifa since the tenth century, being one of the most important monuments and a very attractive place to visit during a day of sightseeing.

Located by the sea, on a high ledge, it owes its name to the heroic deed of Alonso Pérez de Guzmán who, in 1294, preferred to sacrifice his son rather than surrender the town to the Muslims.

With a great history behind it, it can be visited from Wednesday to Sunday throughout the year.

 

2. Stroll through the historical center

At some point you have to walk through the old town, which for many is the best of Tarifa, as the layout of the old medieval town is perfectly preserved.

Our recommendation is to stroll without a fixed route, letting yourself be carried away by its narrow streets, where you will find a multitude of nooks where you can protect yourself from the sun and check out the youthful atmosphere.

 

3. Kitesurfing

One of the typical things to do in Tarifa is kitesurfing, and as soon as you go to any of its beaches you will see for yourself. All of them are full of people practicing this extreme sport of all levels, coloring the sky with their kites.

 

4. Visit Las Palomas Island

Another must-see in Tarifa is the Island of Las Palomas, which stands out for being the southernmost point in Europe and, undoubtedly, one of the most iconic sights of the city.

Connected to the rest of Tarifa by an artificial breakwater, unfortunately you will not be able to access the interior, as it is currently a military zone with restricted access. But we assure you that the walk and the views that you will see from there will be well worth it.

 

5. Unwind on the beaches of Tarifa

Of course, you have to dedicate time to unwind and enjoy the beaches of Tarifa, with many different ones to choose from that will love.

The most popular are Los Lances, Valdevaqueros, Punta Paloma or Bolonia among others, and all of them have different beach bars where you can have a drink with lots of atmosphere and have a good time.

 

6. The Straits Viewpoint

Six kilometers from the historic center of the city is the Straits viewpoint, from where you can enjoy the best views of the city that will take your breath away.

With a height of 300 meters, you can see the entire coastline of Cádiz, the African coast, the stretch of water that separates the two continents and one of the Pillars of Hercules.

 

7. Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de la Luz

One of the most emblematic and important places in Tarifa is the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de la Luz (Our Lady of Light), the patron saint of the town, which according to legend, was built by Alfonso XI in the sixteenth century to commemorate the victory in the Battle of Salado. Later, after being razed by Napoleon's troops, it had to be rebuilt in the 19th century.

It is located 8 kilometers north of the city center, right where the Battle of Salado took place, in which Our Lady of Light intervened so that the Christian armies could complete their victory.

 

8. Los Alcornocales Natural Park

Halfway between Tarifa and Jerez, the Alcornocales Natural Park is a must for nature lovers. It is the largest park in Andalusia, and is accessed through Medina Sidonia, an iconic town in the province of Cadiz.

It is mainly composed of a large mass of cork oaks, as well as many other plant species such as strawberry trees, oaks, laurels, ferns, heathers, myrtles and big rhododendrons.

 

9. Church of San Mateo

Built at the beginning of the 16th century, the Church of San Mateo (Saint Matthew) is of an advanced Gothic style, and it is worth a visit for its architecture and decoration. Proof of this is that the facade was not finished until the beginning of the 18th century.

 

10. Visit to Morocco

There are many people who take advantage of their stay in Tarifa to visit Morocco, as both places are very close and, without a doubt, it is an experience that will be worthwhile. If you like the idea, at FRS we make it easy for you with our ferry.

How long does the Tangier Tarifa ferry take? The crossing lasts approximately one hour, so you can easily go there and come back on the same day. It will be the cherry on top of your trip, so do not hesitate – book your ticket now!