Cadiz is like no other cities in Andalucia. It style and strategic location are worth visiting.
I enjoyed its specific vibe and relaxed way of visiting.
Discover my selection of the the best things to do in Cadiz, Andalucia (and around), such as:
- Old town,
- Cathedral,
- Beaches,
- Roman ruins,
- Forts,
- …
Plus all my tips to spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Cadiz: map, getting around, hotels…
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Andalucia:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Andalucia: DiscoverCars
The unmissable visit: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces
My favorite excursion from Seville: White villages and Ronda
My favorite places to stay:
- Seville, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- Cadiz, the charm by the sea – see best rated accommodations
- Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
- Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations
1. Walking on the seafront – best thing to do in Cadiz
Why visit
Cadiz being a sea-facing town has one of the prettiest seafronts in all of Andalucia.
A walk along the seafront can prove to be an excellent starting point of your visit to Cadiz.
The promenade is not only a visual delight but also a great way to observe the locals, stop for excellent views and grab a quick bite.
Located on a peninsula you can explore a lot, walking by the cathedral and the forts…
This was absolutely by favorite. I enjoyed it at different times of the day.
Planning tips
A walkable promenade runs across almost all of the coastal part of Cadiz.
But the most scenic is the one with the Cathedral for its backdrop. Visiting it around sunset on your first evening in Cadiz is the most ideal.
But if the timing doesn’t work well for you, a walk here at anytime can be quite delightful.
The promenade runs all across the town from the Old Town right up to Playa de la Victoria. The entire stretch is about 7 km long.
Even if you can’t walk all the way, try to walk a few kilometres, especially from the Cathedral to Playa Santa Maria del Mer.
2. Visiting the Cadiz cathedral
Why visit
The Cadiz Cathedral is one of the most important places of visit in Cadiz.
The cathedral whose construction began in the 18th century, took 116 years to be built.
At the Cathedral, observe the blend of the baroque and neoclassical architectural styles and the presence of a golden-tiled dome.
See how the façade uses two coloured stones – limestone and oyster stone.
Also notice how the baroque structure accommodates the neoclassical sacristy and towers.
The cathedral is also where the Spanish composer and pianist, Manuel de Balla was buried.
Planning tips
The cathedral is centrally located in the Plaza de la Catedral. You can simply walk up from the seafront to reach the Cathedral.
The ticket includes an audio guide and access to the bell tower (see next).
The total trip will take about 1.5 hours (including the bell tower)
Opening hours
Tue – Fri 10 am to 1 pm; 4.30 pm to 7.30pm
Sat: 10 am to 1 pm
Price: 7 €
Official website
3. Climbing to the top of the Bell Tower
Why visit
Construction on the cathedral tower began in the 18th century. But similar to the Cathedral, it could only be completed much later.
The clock itself was, in fact, installed in the mid 19th century.
The towers overlook the old town and the bay area of Cadiz.
I always love getting the perspective from above on a town. Don’t you? Plus, when I visited, I had the place to myself and took the time to admire the rooftops, towers, beaches ad colors of the town.
Planning tips
The ticket to the Cathedral includes access to the bell tower as well.
The climb to the top takes only about 10-15 minutes and takes you to the height of about 40 metres.
Unlike many other bell towers, the view from up here is actually worth the climb as you get to enjoy an almost 360 degree unblocked view.
The climb is not too difficult but you may have to wait for the view area to clear up if the place gets too crowded.
Official website
4. Visit the ruins of the Roman Theater
Why visit
The Roman Theatre is a surprise in the middle of the city. It was excavated as recently as 1980.
The theatre was built in the 1st century B.C. and was the largest Roman theatre. It could house up to 10000 spectators.
The stage and other portions of the theatre are still not excavated and remain under the city.
It was one of the most surprising place to discover in Cadiz. You enter via a normal street between buildings and discover those ruins. What a shock!
Planning tips
The entrance of the theatre is to the left of the cathedral square (when facing the cathedral). The entrance looks akin to a house door and is easy to miss.
You can see the theatre and the small museum providing information about the construction of the theatre.
Access is free but booking a ticket online in advance is recommended.
The museum, even though small is excellent. The panels are packed with information.
Plan to spend about 35-40 minutes here.
Opening hours: Tue to Sat: 10 am to 4:30 pm, Sun: 10 am to 2 pm
Price: Free
Official website
5. Explore the old streets of town
Why visit
Cadiz is considered to be the oldest city in Europe and the town is a treasure of architectural delights.
Walk through the narrow lanes and look around at the old structures.
Most of it is pedestrian, so it is very enjoyable to explore.
And the buildings are close to each other creating walls that protect you from the sun.
Don’t forget to look up. The balconies are the most interesting with their decorative details.
Planning tips
Visiting the entire town on foot is quite easy. A casual stroll should only cost you about half an hour.
The streets even though narrow have a flat walking surface but most allow little sunlight to penetrate and are paler compared to the plazas.
You can grab a quick bite at one of the cafes or restaurants in the narrow streets of the town.
6. Get into the Tavira Tower (with Camera Obscura)
Why visit
The Tavira Tower is one of the 140 watch towers of Cadiz and the only one with Camera Obscura. It is one of the touristic highlights of the town.
It consists of two exhibition halls, a Camera Obscura guided tour and access to the rooftop for unobstructed 360-degree views of the city.
The first two floors are exhibition halls.
Go through the exhibition hall for a complete understanding of Cadiz – helpful when exploring the rest of the city.
The halls also provide information on the Camera Obscura and how it works.
On the third floor you will finally see the Camera Obscura. The system, that exists in many cities, creates live projections of Cadiz.
Planning tips
The Torre Tavira is open on all days.
Climbing the tower only takes about 10 minutes. But during peak touristy season, the crowd on the stairs to the top could slow you down.
The staff, however, is very friendly and does its best to provide help and information to tourists.
Booking a ticket online in advance is recommended.
After going through the exhibition and seeing the Camera Obscura in action, plan to spend enough time on the rooftop.
The view of the entire town of Cadiz as seen from above truly makes a visit to the tower memorable.
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10 am to 6 pm (October – April), 10 am to 8 pm (May to September)
Price: 7 €
Official website
7. Walk up to Castillo San Sebastian
Why visit
The Castillo San Sebastian is located on a small island towards the Northern end of the town.
A 1.5 km walkaway called Paseo Fernando Quinones connects it to the seafront promenade.
The island on which the castle is constructed boasts of history dating back to the Greeks.
The island was home to the temple of Kronos and later a Muslim watchtower.
Its present day name comes from the San Sebastian chapel which was built here in the 15th century by sailors taking refuge from plague on the mainland.
The castle, itself was built in the early 18th century.
Planning tips
The castle is now closed for visitors.
But the wall to the entrance is worth enjoying. You can take pictures of the fortified walls from the walkway.
And during the walk back from castle you have ample opportunities to admire the coastline of Cadiz from the sea.
8. Relax at Cadiz Beach – Playa de Cartadura
Why visit
Playa de Cartadura is a wide, calm beach to south of the main city.
Unlike the main beach in Cadiz i.e. la Caleta, this beach doesn’t have the classic buildings for a backdrop.
But that’s what makes it calmer, less touristy and an ideal spot to relax.
Planning tips
You can reach the beach by bus from the main town or you can even drive. There is usually enough free parking nearby.
The beach has plenty of sunbeds and shower areas to change. You need to pay to use the sunbeds though.
The broad beach area and the fine white sand is excellent for walking along the beach. The waves are also swim-friendly.
There are many beachside restaurants here serving delicious seafood.
9. Appreciate the amazing trees in Parque Genoves
Why visit
Tucked towards the northern end of the town is the botanical garden – Parque Genovés.
It feels good to see some greenery.
As soon as you enter, notice the fragrance emanating its vast variety of trees and the chirping of a wide variety of birds.
Pay attention to the variety of trees, their unique shapes and structures.
This is quite a contrast niched between buildings and sea.
There is even an artificial waterfall.
Planning tips
The park is located on the seafront to the North of the San Sebastian Castle and is also accessible from one end of the old town.
There are plenty of benches here to relax. You can carry your own lunch or even eat at the affordably-priced restaurant inside.
An excellent park to take a quick break from sightseeing.
Opening hours: 8 am to 9:30 pm (till 10:30 pm in summer)
Price: Free
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But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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10. Watch sunset from La Caleta Beach
Why visit
La Caleta is the city beach of Cadiz. The beach has a backdrop of the many historic structures of the town, including the fort.
Come here to watch the sunset. The moored boats and the castles on the sides create the perfect setting.
Planning tips
The beach is easily accessible on foot from the town. Driving to the beach doesn’t make sense as free parking here is always full.
Even though the beach has clean toilets, changing facilities and sunbeds – the water is pretty dirty compared to other beaches in Cadiz.
Avoid visiting the place for a swim. But do visit it to capture the magical sunset. Plenty of chatty locals also add to its charm.
Planning Tips & Map – Cadiz, Andalucia, Spain
Is Cadiz worth visiting?
Absolutely.
Cadiz is a great place to spend a holiday or a few nights. It offers a mix of city life and beaches.
Cadiz is a completely different experience than the 3 main cities of Sevilla, Cordoba and Granada.
A city built on a tiny peninsula only attached to the mainland by a narrow band… that means sea views all around!
You can feel the history all around as you walk down the cobbled streets with the waves in the background.
Where is Cadiz
- South-west coast of Spain, in the region of Andalucia
- Sevilla to Cadiz = 1h15 drive
- Cordoba to Cadiz = 2h30
- Granada to Cadiz = 3h15
- Malaga to Cadiz = 2h35
- Below is a map to help you get oriented
All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Andalucia:
Plan your dream trip in Andalucia thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 150+ pre-selected locations
- GPS + tips to make the most of your time
- 300+ original photos to help you choose
How to get to Cadiz
- By plane: The closest airports are Jerez (35 minutes) and Seville (1h 15 min).
- By train: Many trains ply between Seville and Cadiz. The journey takes about 1h 40 min. The central station is called Estacion de Cadiz
- By bus: Many buses run from Jerez and Seville to Cadiz.
- By car: E5 takes you to Cadiz from Seville and Jerez. No difficulties to reach it.
Need to rent a car in Andalucia?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Best time to visit Cadiz
- The best time to visit Cadiz is May, June and September, October. The weather is pleasant and the days are long.
- You can also visit Cadiz during summer but expect temperatures between 25-30 degrees celsius with moderate humidity.
- The town is also crowded due to summer holidays.
Parking in Cadiz
- Finding parking in Cadiz is a challenge.
- It is best to book a hotel with free parking and explore the city on foot.
- Free parking is impossible to find and even if you find one, it would be for a limited time-frame.
- It is best to park in the paid parking areas. Even here, try to reach early during summer months to find a spot.
- Some parking areas close to the Old Town are Muelle Reina Sofía, Valcárcel, Campo de las Balas and Muelle Pesquero.
- You can also use the underground car parks in Cadiz like the Canalejas, Santa Barbara. But they are much more expensive than other paid parking areas.
How to get around Cadiz
- Your best option is to park somewhere and leave your car there.
- Cadiz is best explored on foot. And it is an easy town to explore: compact and flat!
- But if it is too much walking for you, you can use the hop-on hop-off bus that takes you to the all the mains areas to explore and provide information along the way – get your ticket
- If you want to learn more about this intriguing city, you can also join a guided tour: walking, biking or having fun on a Segway – see the options and book
Visit Tips
- The best way to see Cadiz is on foot as the Old Town and the main beaches are all fairly close to each other.
- Avoid wearing heels as you need to walk on cobbled streets.
- Free parking is almost impossible to find. Be prepared to park at the expensive underground parking or find a hotel with free parking.
- The main beach is not ideal for swimming as it’s crowded and the water is quite dirty.
- Many attractions are free but paying to climb up the Tavira tower or the bell tower is worth it. The climb is not too challenging either.
Where to stay in Cadiz
- where I stayed
Parador de Cadiz – I wanted a nice modern stay with sea views. And I was not disappointed!
see photos and availability - Apartment
Casa Plaza San Antonio is located between the town center and the beach, with modern and light decor
see photos and availability - Stylish apartments
Tandem Palacio Veedor de Galeras Suites is located downtown in a historic building
see photos and availability - Unique place
Hotel Boutique Convento Cadiz offers all the modern comfort but in the unique setting of a convent
see photos and availability
Where to stay in Andalucia?
My favorites on a road trip:
- In Sevilla, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- In Cadiz, the charm by the sea – see best rated accommodations
- In Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
- In Granada, for the history – see best rated accommodations
- In Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations
11 to 17 – other best places to visit in Cadiz
11 – Plaza Fragela and the Falla Theater
The Falla Theatre is located in the Plaza Fragela.
The theatre is an emblamatic structure in Cadiz. It was constructed between 1886 to 1905 in neo-mudejar style.
Once here, see the beautiful horseshow arches on the front façade.
If you can, watch a musical or a play here to experience the grandeur of its interiors.
The Plaza where the theatre is located is also buzzing with activity. There are many restaurants and bars in the nearby area.
An excellent square to take a quick break, engage in some people-watching or interacting with locals.
The Casa de las Viudas is also located in this square.
12 – Oratorio de la Santa Cueva
Don’t make the mistake of skipping this monument which is made up of two chapels.
It’s a magnificent hidden gem in the heart of Cadiz and one of the best neo-classical structures in all of Spain.
Visit it to see:
– the opulent interiors
– the only round pictures of the great artist Goya (upper chapel ceiling)
Opening hours: Tue to Sat 10 am to 2:30 pm, 5 pm to 7:30 pm, Sat 11:30 am to 2 pm (guided tour at 12 noon), Sun 10 am to 2 pm
Price: 4 €: (Sunday – free admission)
13 – Arco de la Rosa
The Arco de la Rosa draws its name from a chapel that used to be located above it.
The arch was a gate to the medieval wall built arond the city.It connected the neighbourhood El Populo with the Plaza de la Tablas – mounted with gallows.
Today, it is a beautiful well-maintained arch located right next to the Cathedral square.
14 – Museo de Cadiz – museum of fine arts and archeology
The museum offers a great chance to see the ancient archoelogical remains of the city.
It also exhibits remains from the Phoenician and Roman period.
You will also find artworks by greats such as Zurbaran and Murillo.
Plan to spend about 30-45 minutes here.
The place is never too crowded and facilitates unrushed viewing of exhibits.
Opening hours: Tue to Sat: 9 am to 9 pm, Sunday 9 am to 3 pm, Monday closed
Price: Free for EU citizens, others 1,5 €
15 – Castillo de Santa Catalina
The Castillo de Santa Catalina is a 17th century fortress and the oldest military construction in Cadiz city.
It was commissioned in the 16th century to improve the defence of the city. Later, it was used as a prison.
The fortress is extremely well-maintained. You can go inside, see its fortified walls and take in the impressive views of the ocean.
If you prefer a quieter sunset, you can head here instead of the busier Playa de la Caleta Many artists exhibit their work here.
The fortress also hosts many cultural events. Overall, a pleasant attraction away from the Old Town.
Opening hours: Everyday 11 am to 8:30 pm (Entry allowed till 8 pm only, reduced hours in winters)
Price: Free admission
16 – Mercado Central de Abastos
The Mercado Central de Abastos is the main market from where locals buy fresh produce.
But it’s also one of the best markets in Andalucia for tourists to try out local food varieties.
The interior is home to hundreds of stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables and fishes.
But the outside arena is where you will find stalls that let you taste tapas, fried fish, paella, montaditos, etc.
All the food items served here are delicious and take the overall trip experience a few notches higher. An absolute must-visit
Opening hours: 9 am to 4 pm, 8 pm to 12 am, Saturday 9 am to 5 pm, 8 pm to 1 am, Sunday closed.
17 – Enjoy the terraces at Plaza de San Juan de Dios
The Plaza de San Juan de Dios is one of the prettiest squares in Cadiz.
It is a wide square tiled with diaphanous terraces.
Take in beauty of these terraces, the lovely dancing fountain perched amidst the church of San Juan de Dios, the City Hall and other old, majestic buildings.
The square also offers pristine views of the sea on one side. Relax here for a bit or enjoy snacks at one of the many stalls around.
18 to 23 – best day trips from Cadiz
18 – Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera is famous all over the world for its sherry and brandy. It is also renowned for its flamenco and fine horses.
The town, even though, not as popular as many other Andalucian cities, is perfect for a day trip from Cadiz.
The top things to do in Jerez are:
– visit the Alcazar
– the 11th century fortress
– visit the Cathedral and climb to the top of the tower for stunning views
– see the many churches around (over 20 churches)
– watch a horse show or visit a flamenco bar
- Best to visit with a car – 30 minute via E-5.
- Many direct trains also run between Cadiz and Jerez (approx travel time 30-40 minutes)
- If you want to see the main attractions only, you can cover Jerez in about 5-6 hours.
See the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera
19 – Ronda and the white villages
Ronda is the birthplace of bull-fighting and is also rich in architectural structures belonging to various periods.
The top things to do in Ronda are:
– visit the bullfighting ring
– check out the Puento Nuevo bridge
– see the bridge from the canyon below
– visit the Arab baths
- The easiest option is to visit is with a car. You can take the A-384 and reach in about 1h45. Buses and trains take considerably longer (3 to 5 hours)
- Taking a car will also let you check out nearby white villages like Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra.
- All the main attractions can be easily seen in a day. Reach early to cover all tourist attractions.
20 – Or focus on the boulder village of Setenil de la Bodegas
Setenil de la Bodegas is one of the most unique towns in Andalucia. It is known for its houses built into and under rock hangs.
The village has existed since the 12th century or possibly since even before that.
It is also famous for its meat, (chorizo, sausages etc.)
Top things to do in Setenil de la Bodegas
– Visit the main streets, especially Calle Cuevas de la Sombra with a rock above and houses on both the sides
– Climb up to see the many miradors and the castle
– Visit the local restaurants for meat preparations
- Visiting Setenil de la Bodegas by car is the best.
- Cadiz to Setenil = 1h30 min drive
- Plan 2h – or more if you eat in a cave house
- The 2 main streets are easily accessible. Stairs to be climbed for miradors. Lots of signs to find places of interest.
See my tips to visit Setenil de las Bodegas
21 – Bolonia dune and ruins
The Bolonia dunes and ruins is one of my favourite places in Andalucia.
It is unique sandy terrain with a large shifting dune, ruins that date back to the Roman times of 2nd century B.C. and a beautiful beach.
Top things to do in Bolonia:
– Visit the Baleo Claudia Museum and the Baleo Claudia ruins
– Glide down the sand dunes or walk on the large 200 meter wide natural monument
– Take stunning views from the Bolonia boardwalk
– Relax at the wide sandy beach
- It is best to visit Bolonia dune and ruins by a rented car.
- Cadiz to Bolonia = 1h15 min
- Plan to spend half a day here
22 – Donana National Park
Donana National Park is located to the north of Cadiz. It consists of rich ecosystems which are home to a wide variety of animals and birds.
The park also attracts a large number of migratory birds. Inside the park you will find wetlands, forest trails as well as sand dunes.
- Reaching the park is not easy but the trouble feels rewarding for nature lovers.
- The best way to reach the park is by car. Cadiz to Donana National Parl = 50 minute drive.
- You can also access a few areas of the park by car but most are inaccessible.
- Booking a day tour through a tour operator is recommended to experience the vast natural diversity of the park without any hassle.
23 – Seville
Seville is the capital of Andalucia and is the center of some of the grandest tourist attractions in Spain. Top things to do in Seville:
– Visit the opulent Seville Cathedral
– the third largest cathedral in the world
– Visit the real Alcazar (famous also as the Palace of the Dorne from Game of Thrones)
– Visit the semi-circular plaza de Espagna
– See the Barrio Santa Cruz
In addition to these highlights, there are many museums and structures worth-visiting in Seville.
Seville also has one of the best food scene in all of Andalucia.
- Cadiz and Seville are well-connected by train.
- Distance by car Cadiz to Seville = 1h20 min
- To explore the town properly, you will need a full day.
- Most of the places are easily accessible except the tower and mirador
Itineraries: 1, 2 or 3 days in Cadiz
1 day in Cadiz
If you have just one day in Cadiz, I recommend:
- Visiting the cathedral
- Climbing the bell tower
- Visiting the Roman theater
- Exploring the streets of the old town
- Visiting the Camera Obscura and Tavira tower
- Ending the day around the San Sebastian Fort
2 days in Cadiz
1 day is enough to discover the town.
So with the second day, I would either:
- spend some time at the beach
- or head to Bolonia to explore the dunes and the ruins (1h15min drive)
- or head to Jerez de la Frontera (30min drive) to visit the fort and the cathedral
3 days in Cadiz
1 day is enough to discover the town.
So with the second day and third days, I would either:
- spend time at the beach
- head to Bolonia to explore the dunes and the ruins (1h15min drive)
- or head to Jerez de la Frontera (30min drive) to visit the fort and the cathedral
- or explore more of Andalucia such as Ronda and the white village
FAQs
How many days do you need in Cadiz?
You can visit all the key attractions in a day.
But to see its gorgeous sunset and to experience its beauty by the night, I recommend that you stay for at least 1 night in Cadiz.
Cadiz can also be a great base to visit nearby Andalucian towns.
Is one day enough for Cadiz?
One day is enough for Cadiz if you only want to visit its primary attractions like the Cathedral, the Bell Tower, the Tavira Tower and the main beach.
Is Cadiz worth a day trip from Seville?
Cadiz is absolutely worth a day trip from Seville. There are plenty of unique things to do and see in Cadiz.
e.g the spectacular coastline of Cadiz, the architecturally distinct Cadiz Cathedral the Tavira tower with its camera obscura, the fortresses in the sea, the lush botanical garden etc.
Book your day trip
What is Cadiz famous for?
Cadiz is regarded as the oldest town in Europe. It is famous for its rich architecture, its stunning coastline and its many delicious food offerings.
Free things to do in Cadiz
Already a lot to see when exploring on foot: the city, the cathedral, the seafront, the beaches, the forts.
If you want to see them for free, even observing them from outside is a satisfying experience.
Other than that, the Roman theatre, the Parque Genoves and the fortress Santa Catalina are free attractions.
Want to see more of the best Andalucia has to offer?
- Best landscapes in Andalucia in 40 pictures – read article
- 24 best things to do in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
- 17 most beautiful white villages in Andalucia – read article
- 20 best beaches in Andalucia – read article
- 21+ best cities and towns in Andalucia – read article
- Best castles and forts in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
- Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada – where to go? – read article
- Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia – read article
Planning a trip to Andalucia?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your dream trip in Andalucia thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 150+ pre-selected locations
- GPS + tips to make the most of your time
- 300+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
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