This calm coastal town on Spain's southern border has white Mediterranean buildings, fresh seafood restaurants, and a historic plaza lined with orange trees.
Ayamonte sits at Spain's southwestern edge in Andalusia, where the Guadiana River meets the Atlantic Ocean. You'll find the Church of Salvador with its 15th-century Mudéjar ceiling, the bustling Plaza de la Laguna with its traditional ceramic tiles, and streets lined with 18th-century merchant houses. A ferry connects the town to Portugal every 30 minutes, while Isla Canela's 7-kilometer beach stretches along the Atlantic coast.
Getting to Ayamonte
The closest airport is in Seville, about 90 minutes away by car. You can drive along the A-49 motorway or take one of the regular buses that run between Seville and Ayamonte. The bus journey takes around three hours and departs from Seville's Plaza de Armas station multiple times per day.
Walking Through the Old Town
The old town center sits on a hill above the river, with streets just wide enough for single cars to pass. In Plaza de la Laguna, the main square, you'll see walls decorated with ceramic tiles showing scenes of daily Andalusian life. Many of the surrounding buildings were built in the 18th and 19th centuries by merchants who made their fortune in the Americas.
Churches and Architecture
The Church of Salvador contains a detailed Mudéjar wooden ceiling from the 15th century. Climb its bell tower for views across the river to Portugal. Near the waterfront, you'll find the Church of Las Angustias, built in the 16th century. Inside, you can see the town's patron saint and the main altar with its gilded carvings.
Beaches and Water Activities
A causeway leads 7 kilometers south to Isla Canela beach. Offshore sandbars create calm swimming conditions. Head to Punta del Moral to watch local fishing boats return with their catch or try windsurfing in the afternoon breeze.
Wildlife in the Marshlands
Walking paths cross the Marismas del Guadiana salt marshes between the town and beaches. Visit during spring or autumn migrations to spot herons, flamingos, and wading birds. Morning and late afternoon bring the most bird activity.
Day Trips to Portugal
Ferries cross to Vila Real de Santo António in Portugal every 30 minutes until 9 PM, with a journey time of 10 minutes. The town follows a planned grid pattern, with its main square surrounded by orange trees. From Vila Real, a 15-minute bus ride takes you to Castro Marim, known for its medieval fortress.
Local Food and Markets
Visit the covered market near Plaza de la Laguna in the morning to see the day's fish catch. Local restaurants prepare bacalao using Portuguese recipes and serve fresh tuna caught in nearby waters. Around Plaza España, small restaurants serve tapas and seafood dishes.
Festivals and Events
The Fiestas de las Angustias in early September brings Spanish and Portuguese celebrations together with music, regional food, and street processions. In July, the Barriada de Canela fishing quarter celebrates Fiestas del Carmen with boats decorated in lights and community seafood meals.
