Within Arcos you will see many places of interest, not least of all St.Mary's church which was declared to be the major parish. The bulk of the church is built on the site of an old Arab castle and dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The neo-classical tower is the newest part of the building. The church can be visited for 150pts, Mon-Fri 10am - 1pm and 3.30pm - 6.30pm. Saturdays 10am - 2pm.

Saint Peter's Church dates from the 14th century and is built on the remains of an Arab fortress. The main facade is 18th century and is of Baroque design. The church can be visited for 150pts, Mon - Sat 10am - 1pm and 4pm - 7pm and on Sundays 10am - 1.30pm. There are three other churches worthy of a visit including the church of San Augustin, a former convent. If time in Arcos permits, see one of the five convents. The Convent of the Mecedarian Nuns is the only closed door convent left in Arcos but biscuits made by the nuns can be bought at the main entrance. Other important buildings include, the Palace of the Count of Aguilar and several mansion houses that can be visited. The castle is an Arab military fortress but now a private residence so cannot be visited. The old town is a maze of steep streets opening into small open squares where true Andalucian atmosphere can be sampled, day or night.

The tourist office offer a guided tour of the old town, starting in the Plaza de Cabildo where the tourist office is located. From this same square, wonderful views can be had over the valley.

When it comes to shopping, local crafts and ceramics are in abundance and can be bought quite cheaply. The town of Arcos has so much to offer the visitor, it is impossible to list them all and the ambience of true Andalucia cannot be put into a few words. This place just has to be visited.