Cadiz

Discover Cadiz

Cadiz is steeped in history, and is cited as the oldest inhabited city in Europe – founded more than 3000 years ago. For centuries Cadiz was Spain’s main port, particularly for Atlantic crossings to the Americas.

With such rich history there is really plenty to discover.

By the way, did you know that Cádiz is an island? It is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel called Caño de Sancti Petri that runs through the marshes.

Things to see in Cadiz

The Cathedral

The beautiful Cathedral of Cádiz is visible from almost any point. Built between 1722 and 1838, it is a mixture of baroque and neoclassical styles.

Populo District

The Populo district is considered the oldest district in Europe. Let yourself be carried away by intriguing streets, discover beautiful corners and squares.

There is even a Roman theatre in this quarter! It was only discovered in 1980 and is the second largest and oldest theatre in Roman Hispania.

La Viña District

The district of La Viña with its narrow streets and traditional Cadiz houses is probably the most authentic district of Cadiz. It has the best atmosphere, as well as an excellent gastronomic offer of fresh fish and seafood.

Plaza San Juan de Dios

This beautiful, wide square not only invites you to see some of its old buildings: The Town Hall, the church of San Juan de Dios and the Casa de los Pazos Miranda. It is also ideal for sitting on one of its terraces and watching life go by in the street.

Plaza Topete

Another place to enjoy the atmosphere on the streets of Cadiz is this square with a lot of atmosphere. For the locals the square is known as Plaza de las Flores (Flower Square) because of the many stalls selling flowers.

Central Market

If you like street life and want to feel the pulse of Cadiz from up close, you can’t miss the central market which is located next to the Plaza de Topete.

It is a beautiful neoclassical-style market where locals stock up daily on fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat and fish. The best place to buy fresh quality produce, as well as having a beer and tapas.

Tavira Tower

This 45-metre-high tower is located inside the palace of the Marquises of Recaño. It is the best viewpoint in the city. From here you can enjoy panoramic views.

Castle of Santa Catalina

It is a 17th century fortification located by the sea at the end of La Caleta beach. The castle is currently used as a cultural space for exhibitions, workshops and craft shops.

Castle of San Sebastian

On the other side of the same beach of La Caleta is another 17th century fortification with fantastic views over Cadiz.

Genovas Park

Situated next to the sea is this historic park with a small lake and waterfall. It is the green lung of the city where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll.

Cadiz seafront promenade

Do you want to feel the Atlantic breeze? Then don’t miss a walk along the 6 km long promenade, from the old town to the most beautiful beaches of Cadiz.

Beaches of Cadiz

Cadiz as a city is very limited in space. Nevertheless, you can find some very nice city beaches within walking distance.

La Caleta Beach

This “small” beach of 450 metres is the most popular all year round, as you get there directly from the La Viña quarter in the old town. However, it is highly recommended if you want to see a fantastic sunset.

La Victoria Beach

This beach runs along the promenade, a wide and very long beach of fine golden sand. There are located most of the hotels in Cadiz are located and which therefore has a very good infrastructure.

Cortadura Beach

This beach is located next to the road that connects Cadiz with the mainland. It is considered one of the best beaches in Cadiz and one of the best urban beaches in Europe.

Cadiz Carnival

The whole city turns out for the carnival. A perfect occasion to get to know the city and enjoy the wit and grace of the people of Cadiz.

The Carnival of Cadiz has gone beyond the festive and cultural frontiers. Nowadays it is a tourist phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

That is if you like a lively atmosphere and lots of partying. Also bear in mind that at this time of year the hotels are full and the prices are much higher.

Excursions from Cadiz

If you are staying longer in Cadiz, we recommend visits to:

The beautiful inland White Villages of Cadiz, Vejer and Medina Sidonia, Conil de la Frontera or Tarifa, where you can enjoy some of the best beaches in Spain.

The Doñana National Park is also just an hour’s drive away.

How to get there

You can get to Cadiz by train or plane, landing at the airports of Jerez de la Frontera (the nearest), Seville or Malaga and from there hire a car.

The Weather in Cadiz

Cadiz has a subtropical Mediterranean climate, being the third warmest capital of Spain, after Seville and Almeria.

A good time to travel to the city without sweating too much is during the months of May, June, September and October.

Due to its geographic location, you should always expect strong gusts of wind.