Jerez continues to be an important shopping destination throughout the region because of its commercial tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. In Jerez you can find everything from over hundred-year-old stores on major streets to a flea market, a craft bazaar and street markets that are held almost every day of the week.
- Shopping areas in Jerez: the most important streets
- Shopping centres in Jerez: a place for social gatherings
- Markets in Jerez, including a flea market brimming with antiques
- What to buy in Jerez to take home the best souvenirs
Shopping areas in Jerez: the most important streets
The most emblematic street in Jerez is undoubtedly Calle Larga, one of its most important shopping thoroughfares. The road, which is pedestrianised at the start, was created in the sixteenth century following the old wall that enclosed the Jewish quarter and that formed the backbone of the city from one gate to another. In fact, some shops still retain part of the old wall as they were granted permission from the City Council to build their premises into the wall. The main street, which connects Plaza del Arenal with the Alameda Cristina, is lined with traditional shops such as watchmakers, jewellers and fashion stores as well as very popular cafes and bars.
If you want to find some of the most well-known old shops, take a walk along Calle Bizcocheros, in the neighbourhood of San Pedro, and where the legendary bakery La Holandesa—now called Jesús El Artesano—is located as well as some of the best artisan workshops in Jerez. Another major shopping street is Calle Évora, which is full of small shops and bars for companions to while away the time and located very close to Calle Doña Blanca, where the Mercado de Abastos is located—an essential stop if you want to see what is being cooked up in the city.
Shopping centres in Jerez: a place for social gatherings
In the south of the city there are two shopping centres which are located very close to one another, creating one of the largest complexes in Andalusia. The first one, Área Sur, is open every day of the week and houses many international brands. It also has many restaurants offering different types of food, several cinema screens and even a bowling alley that is the social meeting place for many young people in the city.
Very close by is Luz Shopping, where you can find an Ikea store, among other large national and international stores. The shopping centre also boasts a wide range of leisure activities and, as a new feature, you can even find a large gym inside that attracts many local residents.
Markets in Jerez, including a flea market brimming with antiques
Throughout history, Jerez has been a commercial city thanks to its fairs and markets. The most important is undoubtedly La Plaza, otherwise known as the Mercado Central de Abastos. Opened in 1885, the building is worth a visit even if you do not plan on buying anything since it has stalls selling the best fish, vegetables, wine and sausages. Visitors can now also try some of the best tapas and Cádiz’s most traditional dishes.
It is not the only market, however, to attract many visitors. A famous flea market is held in Jerez every Sunday, from 9 am until 2 pm, on the Alameda Vieja, where you can find lots of antiques, vintage clothes and interesting objects. Among the hundreds of stalls you will also find those selling vinyl records, books and antique furniture—a true treasure chest for collectors. But of course, be prepared to rummage and bargain.
Other weekly flea markets are held in various parts of Jerez on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and weekends. One of the biggest is the Hijuela de las Coles market, which takes place at the beginning of the week, as well as the one on Calle José Ignacio Pineda, every Saturday. For fans of local crafts there is a bazaar in the Jinete Verde theatre, where many leather goods, ceramics, textiles and even some Andalusian gourmet delicacies can be found. The theatre also often hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
What to buy in Jerez to take home the best souvenirs
Jerez is best experienced in its aromas and food and, above all, on horseback, so you cannot leave the city without picking up some good wine, brandy, some crafts and, if you are a horse lover, any equestrian-related item.
The most famous wines in Jerez are fino, amontillado, oloroso, palo cortado and Pedro Ximenez. If you prefer brandy, in Jerez you will find the oldest and most famous brandies in Spain. The best thing to do in any case is to visit some of its most famous wineries such as Fundador and González Byass and buy them there, as well as picking up a bottle of sherry vinegar or olive oil with Designation of Origin, or a packet of ham, chicharrones or its famous goat cheeses.
The most popular crafts in Jerez are leatherwork—beautiful handmade bags, wallets and belts—as well as ceramics, including the city’s famous traditional jugs and traditional Andalusian hand-painted fans or Manila shawls, which are the perfect complement to a flamenco dress or a traditional hat. As we already mentioned, the horse industry is deeply rooted in Jerez, and it is easy to find large saddles, boots and stirrups, as well as traditional equestrian clothing in a range of designs.
