Want to experience sun, sea and authentic Spain? Check out the Costa de la Luz. Stretching along Spain’s Atlantic coast, this region is a golden ribbon of beaches, whitewashed villages and natural beauty.  

Less crowded than some of its neighbouring Costas, it’s the perfect place to soak up Andalusian charm, taste fresh seafood and explore Spain at a slower pace.  

Read our handy Costa de la Luz itinerary to find out how to spend seven unforgettable days here... 

Day 1: 

Visit Vejer de la Frontera – for authentic Spanish charm 

Kickstart your trip at the hilltop village of Vejer, and get lost among the whitewashed houses and cobbled alleys. It’s one of the most-famed ‘pueblos blancos’ or white towns in the country. It overlooks the Straits of Gibraltar and is surrounded by orchards and orange groves, so the scenery is pretty spectacular too. Wander through the old quarter, sample tapas in the Plaza de España and admire views of rolling fields and the coast. 

Day 2:  

Explore Cadiz – the ancient port city 

Next, spend a day in Cadiz, one of Europe’s oldest cities. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into living history, right by the sea! While away the morning in the Old Town, relaxing with locals in the lively plazas, and visiting Cadiz Cathedral. This baroque and neo-classical building dazzles with its golden domes and offers stunning Atlantic views from its tower. 

Hang around until evening and you can enjoy the sunset from La Caleta Beach, before tasting tempting tapas at a seaside bar with a glass of local sherry. With its rhythmic flamenco, welcoming atmosphere and sunshine that bathes the city in golden light, Cadiz embodies the authentic spirit of southern Spain and is a must-do on any itinerary.  

Day 3:  

Relax on Cadiz’s beaches 

After two busy days, you deserve some time to chill out. Grab your sunnies and a good book and sprawl out on Cadiz’s golden sand. Try Playa de la Victoria for super-soft grains and to watch the surfers, or head to La Cortadura for quieter vibes and plenty of peace. Siesta, anyone? 

Grab a late lunch from Mercado Central, which is a famous indoor food market right at the heart of the city. In fact, it’s one of the oldest covered markets in Spain! Browse the stalls and indulge in traditional Andalusian cuisine. We’re talking everything from fried fish and tapas to jamón and sherry. 

Day 4:  

Check out Tarifa – where two seas meet 

Travel down to Tarifa for the day, the southernmost point of Europe, and where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean! It's a popular spot for windsurfing or kitesurfing, and it’s ideal for wandering around. Stroll the charming Old Town and bob in and out of the artisan shops. On a clear day, you can see as far as Morocco across the water! 

Day 5: 

Day trip to Jerez 

Drive inland to Jerez, the home of sherry wine and flamenco! In the morning, you could watch world-famous Andalusian horses at the Royal Equestrian School, before spending the afternoon on a bodega tour, tasting fino straight from the cask.  

Come night-time, you can’t miss out on seeing a live flamenco show in a traditional tabanco! You’ll be in awe of the passionate and intricate movements.  

Day 6:  

Enjoy a beach day in El Palmar 

It’s time to relax! El Palmar’s long, windswept beach is the perfect place to unwind, whether you’re holidaying as a couple or as a whole family. There’s plenty of space to spread out, and there’s a great selection of bars and restaurants just off the sand. The laidback surf scene has people going back time after time!  

Alternatively, why not head further south to Zahara de los Atunes? Here, you can swim in the crystal-clear water and sample one of its famous tuna dishes. 

OUR TOP TIPS 

Transport 
Having a car here really helps, especially if you want to reach wild beaches, natural parks and villages that are bit more off the beaten track. If not, don’t worry! There are lots of local buses and tours that you can make the most of. 

Food and drink 
Seafood is excellent in this region, so sampling fresh fish, shellfish and tuna should be top of your list. The local tapas dishes are much more authentic than in other tourist hotspots, so you might get to try something completely new! Pair these with regional wines and you’ll be onto a winner.  

Don’t forget, many places in Spain close at midday for a couple of hours, so plan your lunch dining times accordingly! 

Book in advance 

If there are certain attractions or restaurants that you know you want to go to, book these before you travel to guarantee your slot. The summer months are some of the busiest in the year, so plan ahead so you don’t miss out.  

In the Costa de la Luz, time slows down, locals greet you warmly and every sunset feels like a celebration. Whether you’re chasing waves, hunting down culture, or seeking peace and quiet, a week here is the ideal option. 

Ready to see for yourself?