The best of Huelva and environs in 7 days
Come discover the expansive virgin sands of Huelva’s beaches, its impressive nature reserves and its beautiful seafaring towns with surprising links to Columbus. Use this itinerary to tick off all the essential sights and discover the province’s many treasures in just one week.
And don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine. Lovers of seafood will be spoilt for choice, but there are plenty of other delicious options available too.
Here’s how to make the most of your 7 full days in Huelva.
Itinerary day 1
9:00- 11:00
Moguer
This former fishing town in the province of Huelva has interesting links to Christopher Columbus. Almost a third of its inhabitants joined his crew for the first voyage, and it also provided the famous caravel ‘La Niña’ for the expedition.
11:30- 13:30
Palos de la Frontera
This town, known as the birthplace of the ‘Discovery of America’, is part of the Ruta de los Lugares Colombinos, a trail of places related to the first voyages of discovery. It is the town where the Christopher Columbus prepared his first voyage to the New World.
12:00- 13:00
Monasterio de la Rábida
This Gothic and Mudéjar-style Franciscan friary was erected between the 14th and 15th centuries. It played a key role in the Age of Discovery, providing accommodation for explorers such as Columbus, Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro.
14:00- 16:00
Restaurante Bar Pappis
It is a small place with 100% homemade food. The montaditos and varied tapas stand out, especially daily. Although they also have a wide menu to choose from.
16:30- 18:30
Playa de Mazagón
This golden beach in Palos de la Frontera stretches as far as the eye can see, and is one of the places considered a must-visit on the Costa de la Luz.
19:00-19:30
Monument to the Discovery Faith
Commonly known as the Monument to Columbus, this 37-metre-high sculpture is of a man gazing out to sea towards America. He is leaning on a cross, which represents the Catholic Monarchs.
20:30- 22:30
Juan José
Known as the restaurant with the best Spanish omlette in Spain, this small family-run establishment is one of the most popular eateries in the city. Relax on its terrace and try its signature dish of tortilla española.
Itinerary day 2
10:00- 12:00
Niebla
Niebla is remarkable for its walled historic centre. Today, both the impressive castle and hidden corners of the town conserve a glorious air of the past.
12:30- 13:30
Minas de Riotinto
Visiting this old mining site is like taking a journey to another planet. It boasts pathways 200 metres below ground and rivers that run a deep red. There is also a quaint steam train that transports visitors around the site.
14:00-15:30
Jesús Carrión
This restaurant, located in the historic old quarter of Aracena, specialises in Iberian pork – a very popular local product. You are guaranteed to leave here satisfied and with fabulous memories.
16:00-17:30
Grotto of Marvels
Right at the heart of Aracena you will find one of the prettiest caves in all of Spain. Explore the weird and wonderful underground landscape with incredible rock formations and crystal-clear lakes.
18:30- 20:00
Aracena
Nestled in the verdant hills of Sierra de Aracena, this town of typical whitewashed houses shares its location with imposing towers, battlements and a castle that dominates the surrounding area.
20:45- 22:30
Jaracandá
One of the best restaurants in Huelva Province is in Higuera de la Sierra, just a 15-minute drive from Aracena town centre. It specialises in low-temperature cooking and succulent cuts of Iberian pork.
Itinerary day 3
10:00- 12:30
Alájar
This town is tucked away in the highest mountain pass in Spain. Stop at the viewpoints to contemplate the spectacular views of the Sierra de Aracena Natural Park, walk the fabulous hiking trails or take a stroll through the town’s beautiful old quarter.
13:00- 14:00
El Padrino
This traditional style restaurant is the best option if you like meat. The Iberian pig, the pen or the loin are some of its star dishes, always accompanied by mushrooms or chestnuts.
14:30- 15:30
Mezquita de Almonaster la Real
Built on the site of an old basilica in the castle of Almonaster el Real during the Caliphate of Córdoba, this mosque was reconverted into a chapel after its reconquest by the Christians in the 13th century.
16:30- 18:30
Cortegana
Located in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Natural Park, this town – recently declared a Biosphere Reserve – wins visitors over with its typically Andalusian old quarter and charming setting.
19:00- 21:00
Jabugo
Known worldwide for its cured ham (with Protected Designation of Origin status), this town in Huelva is the perfect combination of pure nature and a rich historical heritage.
21:30- 23:30
Las Bellotas
This restaurant is one of the best options for trying the famous ham made from local acorn-fed pigs. We suggest you wash it down with one of the fabulous wines from the wine cellar.
Itinerary day 4
9:00- 11:00
The Odiel Marshes
Located at the mouth of the Odiel River, the Marismas de Odiel, or Odiel Marshes, form a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that boasts an extraordinary wealth of fauna in its diverse landscape.
11:30-12:30
Punta Umbría
This is the perfect place to relax by the sea. Let your cares fade away in this town of fishing boats, quaint holiday cottages, beach bars and endless sandy beaches.
12:30- 13:30
Mosquito Club Huelva
You’ll find this famous beach bar on Playa de la Canaleta. As well as drinks and tapas, it offers yoga lessons and free concerts. The atmosphere in the evening is fantastic.
14:00- 15:30
Restaurante Arrozante
At this restaurant, just stone’s throw from the beach, you can enjoy a delicious paella expertly crafted by renowned chefs Carlos Otaola and José Luis Chaparro.
16:00- 17:00
Playa El Portil
Relax on this beautiful urban beach of golden sands and tranquil aquamarine waters. We recommend you take a stroll along the shore to the bunkers built during the Second World War.
17:30- 20:00
Laguna del Portil
The El Portil Nature Reserve is home to many species of water fowl, and boasts lush vegetation, golden sand dunes and wildlife trails with lookout points for the best views of the lagoon ecosystem.
20:30- 23:00
Azabache
This establishment began as a small tapas bar, but is now one of the best restaurants in the city. It is a point of reference for traditional regional dishes using local produce and top-quality ingredients.
Itinerary day 5
9:00- 10:30
El Rompido
This small fishing village is located in a wetland nature reserve (Parque Natural de las Marismas del Río Piedras y Flecha del Rompido), which boasts spectacular sand spurs, dunes and riverside beaches.
11:00- 12:00
Isla Cristina
7 kilometres from the Portuguese border, Isla Cristina is a paradise of white sandy beaches, unspoiled nature and a buzzing nightlife.
12:00-13:00
Spa Hotel Occidental Isla Cristina
Located on the beachfront, this hotel offers health and wellbeing services that guarantee relaxation and balance. We recommend the sauna and professional massages to combat stress.
13:30- 15:00
Restaurante Buffet Hotel Occidental Isla Cristina
Serving typical local cuisine, this restaurant is a one-stop-shop for trying a wide array of regional dishes.
16:00- 17:00
Isla Canela
Nature, golf and a great infrastructure designed with tourism in mind – there’s no better way to describe this small town with an impressive 7 kilometres of beautiful sandy beaches.
17:30- 20:30
Ayamonte
At the mouth of the Guadiana River, on the border with Portugal, Ayamonte stands out for its beaches, churches and shopping centre.
21:00- 23:00
Restaurante Anyma
Capturing the essence of Italian cuisine and being careful to avoid stereotypes, this restaurant captivates diners with its delicious and creative cuisine.
Itinerary day 6
10:00- 10:30
Huelva Cathedral
Built on the site of an ancient hermitage, this fascinating cathedral has been used as a convent, a chapel and a war hospital. The adjacent building houses the Faculty of Business Science of the University of Huelva.
10:45- 11:15
Plaza de las Monjas
Adjacent to the monument to Christopher Columbus, this square was originally part of the old stable yard of the palace of the Dukes of Medina Sidonia, but was established as a public space in the 18th century when it became a venue for shows and celebrations.
11:30- 11:45
Huelva Town Hall
It is well worth making the three-minute walk from Plaza de las Monjas to find take in this majestic building located in the spacious Plaza de la Constitución, right at the heart of the city.
12:15- 14:00
Museo de Huelva
In the different spaces of this museum, principally dedicated to the Fine Arts, Archaeology and Ethnography, you will find impressive permanent collections and temporary exhibitions that are free of charge for EU citizens.
14:30- 16:30
Er Chiclanero
One of the most popular taverns and seafood restaurants in Huelva, Er Chiclanero is famous for its octopus salad. It also serves other delectable dishes such as stewed oxtail and pigs trotters if you are not a seafood fan.
17:00- 17:15
Monument to Our Lady of El Rocío
This fascinating monument represents 60 devotees, inspired by real people, lifting the Madonna onto their shoulders in the town’s famous procession. The artist himself and his father form part of the sculpture.
17:30- 18:30
Reina Victoria district
The Reina Victoria district of Huelva was named after Queen Victoria by the developer at the time. Its architecture, however, shows no British influence and is a mixture of Neo-Mudéjar, Andalusian and Colonial styles.
19:00- 20:30
Río Tinto Pier
This old pier belonged to the Río Tinto mining company. Today it has fallen into disuse, but the worn and weathered structure is one of the most romantic places in the city to go for a riverside stroll in the evening.
21:00- 23:00
Acánthum
This Michelin-star restaurant adds a modern and creative touch to dining in Huelva. Its tasting menu is based on local produce but breaks from traditional styles of preparation.
Itinerary day 7
10:00- 14:00
Doñana National Park
Considered the largest eco-park in Europe, and one of the most-visited natural spaces in Spain, this nature reserve is teeming with wildlife from Africa and Europe.
14:30- 15:30
Restaurante Bar Acebron
Located next to the Doñana National Park, this restaurant is the best of Matalascañas. It specializes in Iberian meats, reserve hams and even the classic prawns from Huelva.
16:00- 17:30
Matalascañas
This coastal town is plumb in the middle of the magnificent Doñana National Park. Don’t miss the Torre de Higuera – the ruins of a spectacular ancient tower engulfed by the sea.
18:00- 20:30
Almonte
The town of Almonte is one of the largest towns in Huelva and it is exceptionally popular during the famous El Rocío pilgrimage. It is also the municipality where most of the Doñana National Park is located.
21:00- 23:00
Sabor Amor Gastrobar
This small and cosy restaurant is right next to the port of Huelva, and is the perfect place for a romantic date night. The tasty dishes are always beautifully presented.