El Puerto De Santa Maria stands out as a lively port town with a rich tradition of wine, food, and seaside leisure. It’s a place where history and local flavors collide, making it an ideal spot for unique tours. As fans of authentic experiences, we particularly enjoy the chance to explore local wineries or enjoy a relaxing boat ride with tapas—each offering a glimpse into the true Andalusian way of life. One of our favorites is the Cayetano del Pino: Sherry Winery Tour with Tasting, which combines history, expert guidance, and four different wines in a 19th-century setting.
El Puerto offers a variety of tours that cater to wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a fun day out. Whether you want to learn about sherry production, ride an Andalusian horse through scenic landscapes, or enjoy a tapas cruise, there’s something for all. Below, you’ll find four standout experiences, each bringing something truly special to the table.
1. Cayetano del Pino: Sherry Winery Tour with Tasting
At number one on our list, the Cayetano del Pino: Sherry Winery Tour with Tasting is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of sherry’s origins and craft. This tour takes place in a historic 19th-century winery right in Jerez de la Frontera, where you can walk through the same cellars and see barrels that have been aging since 1886. The guided experience includes a walk around the winery’s label exposition and a visit to the visitor center, offering a detailed look at sherry production.
What makes this tour stand out is its rich storytelling about the history of sherry, coupled with a tasting of four different wines. The guide’s insights make it easy to appreciate the nuances of each style, from dry fino to sweet oloroso. The small-group format ensures a personal experience, and at just $28 per person, it delivers excellent value. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 10 reviews, many visitors praise its informativeness and friendly staff. If you’re into wine or want a deeper dive into Andalusia’s most famous fortified wine, this tour is a must.
Bottom line: A perfect introduction to sherry, steeped in history and flavor, suitable for all levels of wine enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers alike.
2. Cádiz Countryside: Ride an Andalusian Horse
For a more active experience, the Cádiz Countryside: Ride an Andalusian Horse offers a wonderful taste of rural Andalusia. This 1.5-hour horseback ride caters to both beginners and experienced riders, making it accessible for most. Your guide takes you through scenic landscapes, allowing you to connect with nature and the iconic Andalusian horses, known for their elegance and strength.
What makes this tour special is the chance to truly “ride the breeze” while discovering the best local viewpoints. The guide’s friendly approach and the well-cared-for horses make it a comfortable ride, even if you’re new to horseback riding. Visitors often comment on the authenticity of the experience, with one review calling it “fantastic stable, lovely Andalusian horses, good company and service.” At $227 per person, it’s a bit pricier but offers a intimate, immersive experience far from the busy city streets.
Bottom line: This tour suits nature lovers and horse enthusiasts wanting a genuine, hands-on way to experience rural Andalusia. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with a gentle ride and looking for memorable scenery.
3. El Puerto de Santa María Winery and Tasting
If uncovering local wines is your goal, the El Puerto de Santa María Winery and Tasting offers a detailed exploration of regional varieties. Guided by a wine expert, you’ll learn about what makes this area’s wines unique, from vineyard to bottle. The tour lasts approximately three hours, during which you’ll visit vineyards, taste different wines, and discover the secrets behind their high quality.
This tour provides a balanced mix of education and tasting, ideal for travelers who want to develop their palate while learning about the local wine scene. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5, with reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and engaging experience. The price of $170 per person reflects its comprehensive nature, offering good value for those eager to understand more about Andalusian wine.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers eager to deepen their knowledge and sample authentic regional wines in a scenic setting, with enough time to appreciate the process behind each glass.
4. Tapas on a Boat: El Puerto Foodie Experience
Finally, for a fun, laid-back experience, the Tapas on a Boat: El Puerto Foodie Experience combines sightseeing with delicious bites. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll enjoy aperitivo on board, tasting local tapas paired with regional wines while cruising along the coast. The gentle sea breeze and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal setting for a casual yet memorable outing.
This tour is especially popular among groups and couples who want a social experience. It’s a great way to sample regional flavors without committing to a sit-down dinner, and it offers a unique perspective of El Puerto’s waterfront. Although specific reviews aren’t listed, the combination of food, drink, and scenery makes it a good choice for those seeking a lighthearted and authentic taste of Andalusia.
Bottom line: A relaxed, social way to enjoy local cuisine and drinks, perfect for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic experience that’s easy to fit into any schedule.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. If you’re a wine enthusiast wanting an in-depth look at sherry, Cayetano del Pino offers a well-rounded experience. For those who want a more adventurous and scenic day, a horseback ride through the countryside (Ride an Andalusian Horse) might be more your style. If you prefer a leisurely, educational wine tasting, then the El Puerto de Santa María Winery is ideal. And for a light, social outing, the Tapas on a Boat delivers a fun, relaxed experience.
Keep in mind the duration and pricing—some tours, like horseback riding, are more costly but offer a personalized adventure, while others focus on learning and tasting at accessible prices. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
El Puerto De Santa Maria offers a rich variety of tours that showcase its famous wines, scenic landscapes, and delicious food. If you’re looking for a deep dive into sherry, the Cayetano del Pino winery is hard to beat. For a more active day, riding Andalusian horses through scenic countryside is rewarding. Food lovers will enjoy the tapas cruise, which combines local flavors with a relaxing boat ride.
No matter which experience you choose, these tours provide a meaningful way to connect with the local culture and history. Booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. The best part? Many of these tours are affordable and packed with authentic moments—making El Puerto De Santa Maria a perfect stop for your Andalusian adventure.
