The port city of Cádiz in the southwest of Andalusia lies on a small headland – surrounded by the sea – and is only connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It impresses with its maritime flair and extremely interesting history. The oldest city in Western Europe is a must-visit on any Andalusia road trip. Here I’ll tell you which Cádiz sights you should definitely visit and give you lots of tips.
Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. It was founded in 1104 BC as an outpost of the Phoenicians and was later an important trading port for the Romans. However, there are also many modern stores for shopping and plenty of excellent tapas bars.
The good thing about Cádiz is that the city itself is quite manageable. Everything is very close together and within easy walking distance. That’s why it’s worth visiting for just one day.
Watch the following video to get a first impression of Cádiz:
By the way: Even the journey to Cádiz is spectacular. Because you drive over the giant La Pepa Bridge, the sight of which alone will impress you.
All the following Cádiz tips can also be found here on the map:
1. Visit the museum on a rainy day.
When I was in Cádiz, it also rained for half a day. If that happens to you too: no problem, because there’s still plenty to experience. You should definitely visit the Museum de Cádiz for 1-2 hours. The exhibitions are really interesting. You can learn a lot about the origins of the city and how it has changed over the millennia. There are also many paintings from different eras to marvel at.
The biggest attraction are two Phoenician sarcophagi dating back to the 5th century BC. Entry to the museum is also free of charge.
2. Discover the culinary Cádiz
Tapas food is basically a tip for every Spanish city. I myself tried several in Cádiz and found the following tapas bars very good:
- La Tapería de Columela – large portions at a small price, and creatively prepared.
- La Candela – cool bar, with interesting paintings on the wall that you can also buy. A little more expensive but very tasty. The fried squid with potato fry was extremely tasty.
Cadiz is located by the sea and therefore, in addition to tapas bars and restaurants naturally also has plenty of good fish restaurants to offer.
3. Walk once around the peninsula
The historic old town of Cádiz is located on a small peninsula. However, it is quite manageable and you can easily walk around it in about 1-2 hours. You can enjoy the wonderful view over the coast and pass many sights along the way.
But the best thing is to watch the locals go about their daily activities, e.g. fishing, boating, sitting on a bench or chatting with each other.
4. Explore the area around the cathedral
You will recognize the Cathedral of Cádiz from afar. It was built in the 18th century. However, you will find many other, much older architectural features in the area around the cathedral, such as the Arco de Los Blanco or Arco Del Populo.
I found the very well-preserved Roman theater, which is well hidden between all the residential buildings, particularly interesting. It was only discovered in 1980 and then extensively restored. Admission to the theater and its small museum is free.
5. Enjoy the panoramic view from Torre Tavira
From the old watchtower – the Torre Tavira – you have a fantastic panoramic view over the whole city. However, you have to pay a hefty €8 entrance fee to get to the roof terrace.
If it rains, you can also enjoy the view through the windows on the top floor of the tower. As there is a limited capacity for the tower, you must reserve your ticket online in advance. This is easy to do on the website.
6. Stroll through Genova Park
An oasis of peace and a cozy retreat in Cadiz is the Park Genova, right by the sea. It is a botanical garden with a wide variety of trees and many small fountains. But what’s particularly cool are the bushes trimmed into whimsical shapes along the path.
7. Look at the two Castillos
Due to its open location facing the sea, Cádiz was repeatedly attacked throughout history. Powerful fortifications were therefore a must in order to guarantee the safety of the inhabitants and withstand the enemy. Two castles were built. They are almost right next to each other and you can even visit them for free.
In the Castillo Santa Catalina, built at the end of the 16th century, you can visit a historical exhibition or simply walk along the castle walls and enjoy the view of the beach and the sea.
The Castillo de San Sebastian was built directly into the sea in the 18th century. The locals sometimes go swimming along the promenade that leads to the castle. There is a lighthouse in the castle grounds, which you can easily spot from afar.
8. Buy flowers and have a coffee in the Plaza des Flores
One of the prettiest squares in the old town is the Plaza des Flores. As the name suggests, several florists have set up shop here, which gives the square its special charm. There are also many bakeries offering coffee and all kinds of sweet treats.
In the immediate vicinity of this square is the Café Royalty with a rather extravagant interior, including paintings by renowned artists such as Felipe Abarzuza, handmade carpentry and original stucco work covered in fine gold leaf. Breakfast is served here as well as a tapas menu and Andalusian food and wine.
9. Store in the old town
In addition to enjoying the sound of the sea, you can also indulge in another intoxication in Cádiz – the shopping intoxication.
There are small luxury boutiques everywhere, but also larger stores of well-known brands. Especially along Calle Columela, one store stands next to the next.
10. Sun yourself on the beaches of the city.
One of the most famous beaches in Cádiz is Playa La Caleta in the middle of the old town. The striking white wooden building erected on the fine sandy beach may look familiar from a James Bond movie. The famous bikini scene with Halle Berry in “Die another day” was filmed here.
Most of the beaches, however, are located a little further south on the headland of the new town of Cádiz, such as Playa la Victoria or Playa El Chato. These are very popular with both tourists and locals, especially in summer.
What Cádiz tips have I forgotten? Write them in the comments.
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