Cádiz walking tour & city guide
One of Europe's oldest cities, surrounded by the Atlantic.
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Cádiz, founded by the Phoenicians around 3,000 years ago, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe. Built on a narrow peninsula almost entirely surrounded by the Atlantic, it is a city of sunlight, sea breezes, golden domes and friendly, witty locals.
The old town
The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot, a grid of narrow streets opening onto lively squares. The Cathedral of Cádiz, with its golden-tiled dome, faces the sea; its crypt lies below sea level and you can hear the waves outside. Climb the Torre de Poniente for views over the rooftops.
The Torre Tavira, the highest of the city's old watchtowers, houses a camera obscura that projects live images of the city. Plaza de las Flores, with its flower stalls, and the Mercado Central are the heart of daily life.
Beaches and the seafront
La Caleta, a small beach between two castles, is beloved by locals for its sunsets and fishing boats. Along the southern shore, Playa Victoria stretches for kilometers with fine golden sand. A walk along the sea walls, past the Genovés Park and the Castle of San Sebastián, is one of the best ways to see the city.
Carnival and day trips
Cádiz is famous for its Carnival in February, one of the most important in Spain, known for its satirical songs and costumes. Jerez de la Frontera, the home of sherry and Andalusian horses, and the white villages of Andalusia are nearby, and Seville is about 1 hour 40 minutes by train.
Top sights in Cádiz
- 1
Cádiz Cathedral
A cathedral with a golden dome by the sea.
- 2
Torre Tavira
A watchtower with a camera obscura.
- 3
La Caleta Beach
A small beach between two castles.
- 4
Playa Victoria
A long golden urban beach.
- 5
Mercado Central
The bustling central food market.
- 6
Castle of San Sebastián
A fortress on a small island linked by a causeway.
Food markets & where to eat in Cádiz
Mercado Central
Fresh fish and tapas stalls in the market.
Freidurías
Fried fish shops serving 'pescaíto' in paper cones.
Barrio de la Viña
A traditional neighborhood of tapas bars.
Plaza de las Flores
Cafés surrounded by flower stalls.
Food to try in Cádiz
Pescaíto frito
Mixed fried fish, served in a paper cone.
Tortillitas de camarones
Crispy shrimp fritters.
Atún de almadraba
Bluefin tuna caught with traditional nets.
Sherry
Fortified wine from nearby Jerez.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Cádiz
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in CádizCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Cádiz.
- eSIM for SpainStay online from the moment you land.
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