Cádiz - one of the oldest cities in Europe
Narrow alleyways, large lively squares and the sea – that is Cádiz in Andalusia. A versatile destination that is equally suitable for history buffs, beach lovers and culture vultures.
This city, characterised by its close connection to the sea, is ideal for travellers who want to explore historical sights while enjoying the relaxed Spanish lifestyle. From the well-preserved Roman ruins to the modern neighbourhoods, Cádiz offers an impressive variety of experiences.
Cádiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe, offers holidaymakers an old town with narrow, winding streets that end in large squares. This is where life takes place. Restaurants offer what the harbour city is known for: fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian cuisine. A visit to the large regional market in the heart of the old town is not to be missed. Not only fresh fish, but also numerous freshly prepared delicacies make the heart of connoisseurs beat faster.
Visitors interested in culture will find numerous museums, galleries and historical sites that tell the story of the region. This goes back a long way: it was probably Phoenician traders from Tyre who founded the city as a trading centre and military post. The Carthaginians and later the Romans were also in Cádiz and brought with them a great economic boom and, of course, their culture. You can discover some interesting traces of this period in the old town in particular.
The harbour city flourished with the discovery of America. However, trade with the overseas colonies attracted not only merchants, but also pirates and plunderers. In order to protect itself from the numerous attacks, the city built a fortress system, parts of which are still preserved today. It is well worth exploring, as the bastions on the seafront offer marvellous views.
For nature lovers, the surrounding beaches and nature parks offer plenty of opportunities for long walks, bike rides and water sports. There is a somewhat smaller city beach in the city, but a fantastically long sandy beach just 5 kilometres away. Surfers will also find a wave or two here.
Cádiz is known for its lively festivals, especially the carnival, which is one of the biggest and most colourful in Spain. If you want to experience this time of year, you should definitely plan a visit to the city in February.
Places of interest in Cádiz
Narrow streets, beautiful houses, squares and churches - the old town of Cádiz is just waiting to be discovered.
Arrived in Cádiz by cruise ship? Our tips will make your shore excursion in Cádiz an unforgettable experience. Cádiz is a wonderful place to discover on your own!
A stay in the city doesn't always have to be expensive. We were very surprised at what you can visit for free in Cádiz.
Fresh fish prepared in almost any way, pintxos, churros, beer and of course sherry - drinking and eating in Cádiz can be a wonderful pleasure, especially in the smaller restaurants away from the tourist crowds.
Cádiz has an excellent cycle network and you can hire bikes in the city. For us, this was a great opportunity to explore the area by bike.
We climb up one of the many towers in Cádiz, step by step. The Torre Tavira is certainly the most famous tower in the city and should not be missed on any sightseeing programme in the city.
We are walking along the coast of Cádiz when we spot a striking building that outshines the surrounding buildings. The Cathedral of Cádiz is one of the most important sights in Cádiz and is visited daily by locals and tourists.
Travel information for Cádiz
Travelling to Cádiz
By plane:
The nearest airport is Jerez de la Frontera Airport, around 45 minutes’ drive from Cádiz. In summer, it is served by numerous holiday and low-cost flights.
From there you can get to Cádiz by taxi, bus or hire car.
By train:
Cádiz is also easily accessible by train. There are direct train connections to many of Spain’s larger cities, including Cordoba, Santander, Madrid and Seville. All trains, with the exception of the Cercanías (regional trains), require reservations and are often fully booked, especially in the high season.
There are also regional trains (Cercanías) to Jerez de la Frontera and regional express trains (Media Distancia) to Seville.
By bus:
The bus station is right next to the railway station. The regional buses M036, M037, M040, M041, M050 (to Jerez airport), M051, M052 stop here.
There are also long-distance buses to many destinations in Spain.
You can also find lockers for suitcases here!
By car:
For travellers who appreciate flexibility, travelling by car is a good option. Cádiz is located on a peninsula and has three land accesses. Two large bridges and a land access link the city with the mainland. The well-developed AP-4 motorway and the A-4 motorway lead to the city.
By boat:
Cádiz is a harbour city. Cruise ships dock in the harbour almost daily.
There are also ferry connections to the Canary Islands.
On the way in Cádiz
On foot:
Cádiz is a relatively small city and many of the sights are within easy walking distance. The charming alleyways of the old town are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Public transport:
Buses are an inexpensive way to get around the city. However, the buses do not run in the Old Town. They circle the old town and travel to the new town.
Bike hire:
For the eco-conscious traveller, there are bike hire shops in the city, a great way to explore Cadiz on two wheels.
Taxi:
Taxis are a convenient, albeit more expensive, option for getting from one place to another quickly.
Best time to travel to Cádiz
The climate in Cádiz is determined by the city’s location directly by the sea.
Spring (April to June)
Spring in Cádiz is pleasant with mild temperatures that average between 15°C and 25°C. There is less rainfall than in winter, which creates ideal conditions for sightseeing and walks along the beaches.
Summer (July to September)
Summer is the warmest time of the year with temperatures often rising above 30°C. Despite the heat, the climate is often pleasant thanks to the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Autumn (October and November)
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, averaging between 15°C and 22°C. It is still warm enough to enjoy the city and its sights, but with fewer tourists.
Winter (December to March)
Although it is the coolest time of the year, winters in Cadiz are mild compared to other European destinations. Temperatures rarely fall below 10°C. You should expect occasional rain showers in winter.
The best time to visit Cádiz is in spring and autumn. During these months you will enjoy warm but not too hot weather, ideal for walks through the city and visits to the beach. Summer can be particularly busy, so spring or early autumn is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds.