Seville, Valencia, Barcelona… All popular Spanish cities. But what about Cádiz? This underdog in Andalusia has a lot to offer!
The fact that Cádiz is an underdog isn't so much due to the city itself. It simply isn't known as a city break destination, even though it lends itself well to it. No problem, though; Cádiz is easy to reach from the Costa de la Luz, and a day trip from Seville is also possible.
For those who prefer to stay in Cádiz itself, we have a nice hotel on offer: Hotel Playa Victoria. From here, you can be on the beach in no time, and the historic center is also within easy reach.
What can you expect if you decide to visit Cádiz? A healthy dose of culture. The city not only played an important role in the 18th century in trade with the New World, but it was actually founded more than 3,000 years ago! This makes it one of the oldest cities in all of Europe. As a result, you will find monumental buildings scattered throughout the city dating back to the eras of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors, among others.
And Cádiz offers – if you ask us – the best of both worlds. From the old city center, you can walk straight towards the boulevard and the beach. Walking along the boulevard, you are quickly overcome by the feeling that you have arrived in Cuba. For this reason, and due to the close ties with Cuba in the past, the city is not nicknamed ‘Little Havana’ for nothing.
Just outside the city, you will find (extra bonus points!) a harbor area full of tavernas and restaurants. In the summer, this is the place where most open-air concerts are held.
Have we piqued your interest? Time to list the city's must-sees and must-dos. And this will be a selection, otherwise we'll still be at it tomorrow.
You can't miss it in Cádiz; The magnificent cathedral with the golden dome. The building, situated on the equally beautiful Plaza de la Catedral, is the city's main attraction.
Construction took a long time; no less than 116 years, from 1722 to 1838. This has resulted in a unique mix of architectural styles. A quick look reveals Baroque and Neoclassical details, as well as Rococo elements.
Besides the cathedral, Cádiz is home to two castles. Castillo de Santa Catalina, a star-shaped military stronghold, is particularly worth a visit.
Not only is the walk there amazing, but you also have a beautiful view from the city walls. An extra bonus: admission is free.
Wandering through El Pópulo
The best way to get to know Cádiz's oldest district, El Pópulo, is simply by strolling (and without a map!) through the streets and past the charming squares. Do you come across a cozy square with numerous flower stalls? Then you have arrived at Plaza de las Flores. The 19th-century Plaza de Mina is at least as beautiful. This square is considered the heart of the city.
Have you had enough after those two squares? Not at all! The baroque Plaza San Francisco, Plaza San Juan de Dios, and Plaza San Antonio are also worth a visit. You will find beautiful mansions on the latter.
Looking for the best view of Cádiz
Do you – just like us! – enjoy climbing towers for a stunning view of your holiday destination? In Cádiz, the best place to climb is the 45-meter-high Torre Tavira, with its amazing rooftop terrace and equally impressive view.
Torre Tavira is part of an old merchant's house. The combination of towers and merchant's houses was a common sight in Cádiz in the past (and still is today!). From here, people could see when ships from Latin America were arriving. A look at the Roman theater
When an old warehouse in the El Pópulo district went up in flames in 1980, something very special was discovered: the remains of a Roman theater from the 1st century BC. Although restoration is still in full swing, it can be said that, after the theater of Pompeii, this is the largest Roman Theater in the world.
Want to know more about the history of Cádiz?
Museo de Cádiz is the place where you can learn more about the Spanish city. And feel free to set aside some time for it; it consists of three parts. The archaeological museum takes you through the city's 3,000-year-old history, special works of art are exhibited in the Museo de Bellas Artes, and then there is also an ethnographic museum. A paradise for museum lovers!
Soaking up culture is amazing. But let's be honest; if you go to Southern Spain, you surely want to spend a day (or two, or three) lying on the beach. In Cádiz, you have a choice of two beaches:
Playa Caleta is the city beach near the historic center. To be precise, it is located behind the old fishing district of Barrio de la Viña. An added bonus: due to its location, you will find fine seafood restaurants near the beach. The beach might look familiar to you, by the way. It was the setting for the James Bond film Die Another Day, serving as a stand-in for the Cuban city of Havana.
You will find Playa de la Victoria in the new part of the city. It is considerably longer and is also considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
Cycling past the highlights
Are you visiting Cádiz as a day trip and can't choose from all these sights? We have the ideal option for you! Book a bike tour through our partner Baja Bikes. In four hours, you will pass by a large number of the highlights mentioned above, and more. The (English-speaking) guide knows the city like the back of their hand and will overwhelm you with the most interesting facts.
Practical!
Cádiz is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean. It is accessible by car via a spit of land or bridge, after which you can park in one of the underground parking garages right in the city center.
During peak season, you really have to set off early, otherwise it can be difficult to find a free parking spot. Want to avoid this? Trains run to Cádiz from Seville (but also from Jerez de la Frontera, for example).
Are you excited about Cádiz yet?
