Costa de la Luz is Spain’s scenic southwestern coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, known for some of the country’s longest and sandiest beaches. The biggest city on the coast is historic Cádiz, which makes for an excellent starting point and/or hub for exploring the region. Traveling to Cádiz is possible from most of Spain’s biggest cities, including Seville, Madrid, and Barcelona.
The fastest way to reach Costa de la Luz is by plane, with direct flights to Jerez Airport from both Madrid and Barcelona. The train is the fastest option for public transportation, although buses are also available. Driving is another option, thanks to major highways that connect the coast with the rest of Spain.
From Seville
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Traveling between Seville—the capital of the Andalusia region—and Cádiz is quick and easy no matter which mode of transportation you prefer. Whether you go by car, bus, or train, you’ll arrive in Cádiz in no more than two hours.
The fastest method is by car, which takes just under 1.5 hours via highway E-5. Following a similar route, buses are a great alternative. Operated by the company TG Comes, they are direct and take just 1.5-2 hours to reach Cádiz. Trains take about the same time as the bus, but they offer a slightly more comfortable, spacious journey.
Once in Cádiz, it’s best to have a car to explore Costa de la Luz because there are many towns and beaches not serviced by local transportation. Some of the villages with the best beaches include Los Caños de Meca, Tarifa, and Zahara de los Atunes. If you need to rely on public transportation, local buses do reach some of the towns in Costa de la Luz.
From Madrid
Duration: 1.5 - 8 hours
The fastest way to travel to Costa de la Luz from Madrid is by plane. Iberia offers direct flights throughout the day, arriving in Jerez Airport in about 1 hour. From the airport, buses and transfers get you to the city center of Cádiz in just 30 minutes.
Trains are the fastest alternative to flying. Direct trains depart from Madrid’s Atocha station and arrive in Cádiz 4-4.5 hours later. Although it’s a longer alternative, you can also reach Costa de la Luz from Madrid by car, either rental or private transfer. Following the highway via Merida and Seville, the journey will take about six hours.
Buses are the longest option, operated by Socibus and arriving in Cádiz eight hours later. For travel between Cádiz and Costa de la Luz, see the previous option.
From Barcelona
Duration: 2.5 - 10 hours
Although it’s located on nearly the opposite side of the country, you can still reach the Costa de la Luz from Barcelona. Flying is your best bet, as direct flights reach Cádiz’s closest airport, Jerez, in just two hours. Vueling Airlines and Iberia both serve this route.
Trains are the next best option, departing from Barcelona and arriving in Cádiz in 8-9 hours. If you prefer to go by car (rental or private transfer), it will take ten hours. The drive is quite nice, first following the scenic western coast down to Valencia before heading southwest. You’ll pass through Córdoba and Seville, both worth a stop or an overnight stay. Buses aren’t recommended because of the length of the journey. If you prefer the bus, it’s best to make at least one stop in Madrid for a day or two.
If you’re interested in extending your trip to see more of the country, this 18-day tour combines Barcelona and Cádiz with Basque Country, Madrid, and more of Andalusia. For travel between Cádiz and Costa de la Luz, see the first option.