Free walking tours in Tarifa and what to see

Must-sees

Tarifa is the southernmost point of continental Europe, and you can feel it in the wind and the light. The old town is quick to explore: enter through the Puerta de Jerez, climb to the church of San Mateo and reach the castle of Guzmán el Bueno, of caliphal origin. From the walls and the Strait viewpoint you can see the coast of Morocco.

The Isla de las Palomas, joined to land by a causeway, marks the boundary between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. West of the town the long beaches begin: Los Lances, Valdevaqueros and, further on, Bolonia. At Bolonia are the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, a town devoted to salting fish, and a great sand dune by the sea.

Free tours and guided visits

Free tours are scarce in Tarifa and not always available. When they run, they are short tip-based walks around the old town. Guided visits and nature excursions are the norm here. The town is small and easy to explore on your own, so a guide mainly adds context about the history of the Strait and the castle.

The best-known activity is whale and dolphin watching in the Strait, where you can see dolphins and, depending on the season, pilot whales, sperm whales or orcas. There are also guided visits to Baelo Claudia, hiking routes in the Strait Natural Park and kitesurfing or windsurfing lessons. The ferry to Tangier leaves from the port, and there are guided day trips to see the city.

How long to spend

The town can be seen in a morning or afternoon, three or four hours including the castle. With two days you can add a boat trip to see whales and dolphins and an afternoon at Bolonia with Baelo Claudia and the dune. If you want to kitesurf or go to Tangier, allow three or four days. Bear in mind that the levante wind can change beach and boat plans.

Where to stay

To get around on foot, the old town and its surroundings are the best option, with bars, restaurants and the port close by. If you are coming for the kitesurfing or want more peace, look at places along the road to Los Lances and Valdevaqueros, although you will need a car. In summer the centre has a lot of nightlife, so if you stay there, look for slightly tucked-away streets.