In this article we are going to tell you the best things to see and do in Cádiz . Not only in the city, but also some corners of the province that you cannot miss. The essential places to visit on your trip through this beautiful part of Spain.
What to see and do in Cadiz city
Popularly known as “La Tacita de Plata”, the city of Cádiz and its wonderful province are heart-stealers. Trust me, because after having lived there for a few years, I know what I'm talking about. The attractions of this part of Andalusia are so many that you will always have something to do and a new place to discover.
One of the oldest cities in the world, a wild coastline that can boast of being one of the most beautiful in the whole country, picturesque villages, mouth-watering cuisine, great wines and that magical light that you'll only find there. Are you ready to discover everything that this city (and its surroundings) hides?
1. St. John of God Square
The Plaza de San Juan de Dios is one of the busiest places in the entire city, so you're sure to come across it at some point. There you'll find the Town Hall building*, the Pazos de Miranda house and the baroque church of San Juan de Dios. Strategically located facing the sea, it was for years linked to the trade of products arriving from the Indies, and in fact served as a food market well into the 19th century. Today, there is no shortage of bars and cafes where you can have a drink while watching the comings and goings of locals and tourists. From here begins the free tour of Cádiz , an excellent way to break the ice with the city.
*Are there any Cuarto Milenio fans in the room? Then perhaps you've heard of Cádiz City Hall for its paranormal phenomena... If you want to learn about this story and others, sign up for this free tour of the mysteries and legends of Cádiz .
2. Towers of Cadiz
Look up as you walk through the historic centre and marvel at the city's more than 100 towers . In the past, Cadiz's privileged location required it to be constantly alert and to observe what was happening in the ocean waters at all times. So these towers (which came to be 160) were built on the roofs of private houses to fulfil this function, and in the process gave Cadiz a unique architectural character.
3. Tavira Tower Viewpoint
And once you've seen it from below... change your perspective and go up to the Torre Tavira viewing point , one of the best things to do in Cádiz. Its 45 metres in height made it the city's official watchtower in 1778 and even today it still offers spectacular 360° views of the entire city. There you can also enjoy the Camera Obscura , a pioneering tourist attraction that projects a live, moving image of what is happening outside at that very moment. Find detailed information about the tower, prices and opening hours here .
4. The Cathedral, one of the most beautiful places to see in Cádiz
A very different view, but beautiful like no other, can be had by walking along the seafront . The imposing Cathedral , in neoclassical and baroque style, stands out among the other buildings in the historic centre and poses with its best face to provide the perfect postcard of Cadiz. It is known as Santa Cruz sobre el Mar, as it is just a step away from the waters that bathe the city.
5. Castles of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina
Right on the same beach of La Caleta (although at opposite ends), you can visit the castles of San Sebastián and Santa Catalina . The first is located on a small islet defending the northern side of the city and connected to it by a jetty. The Santa Catalina is famous for its five-pointed star shape, three of which jut out into the ocean and the other two allow entry to the castle from land. Both are free and currently host exhibitions, concerts and other cultural activities.
6. Central Supply Market
There is no better place than a market to contemplate the daily life of a city. In Cádiz, don't miss the Mercado Central de Abastos ( more info ). With its lively stalls of fruit and vegetables, fish, seafood, meats and sweets, it is a real spectacle for the senses. In addition, at El Rincón Gastronómico you can put in your mouth typical dishes of Cádiz cuisine (and not only!) and give your tummy a treat.
7. Enjoy gastronomy, one of the best things to do in Cádiz
…And speaking of bellies… Cádiz is a gastronomic paradise for lovers of good food. Our mouths water when we think of shrimp omelettes, potatoes with cuttlefish, fried fish, sea anemones, cured meats, sausages and of course the famous red tuna from the almadraba. These are just some of the many delicacies you can try in the city’s restaurants and bars. By the way, here we tell you where to eat well and cheaply in Cadiz.
8. Topete Square
Just a few metres from the Central Market you will find the Plaza de Topete . Popularly known as the Plaza de las Flores for its colourful stalls full of fragrant flowers, it is one of the most lively and charming places in all of Cádiz.
9. The Cove
Andalusia has a special light, but the one in this city is truly unique. This must have something to do with the fact that the coast of Cadiz is known as “ the Coast of Light ”. There is no more magical moment to see what I am talking about than at sunset , and no better place to do so than La Caleta . The sunsets on this beach are simply spectacular and one of the best things to do in Cadiz.
10. Pópulo neighborhood
Explore the Pópulo neighbourhood , one of the oldest in all of Europe. As is happening in other places on the old continent, in recent years it has been given a good facelift to restore it to the splendour of bygone eras.
Wander aimlessly through these streets full of history where you will stumble upon walls, arches, the Cathedral of Cadiz itself and even the archaeological remains of a Roman Theatre. And why not, continue enjoying the Pópulo at sunset with its lively nightlife… for me it is one of the best things to do in Cadiz.
11. La Viña neighborhood, a must-see in Cádiz
If Pópulo is known for being the oldest neighbourhood in the capital of Cádiz, La Viña is known for being its true heart. Walking through the streets of this picturesque fishing district is a must on a visit to Cádiz if you want to get to know the essence of the city. La Viña is also the place where the famous Carnival is celebrated with the greatest intensity … which, by the way, is something you have to experience at least once in your life and one of the best reasons to visit Cádiz.
12. East and West
It's not something you have to do, but rather something you can't resist. The Levante and Poniente winds are two old acquaintances of the city. So be prepared to go crazy with the former (and also to struggle with spreading out your towel while it's present) and don't forget to grab your jacket on nights when the Poniente blows.
13. Genovés Park
Head to one of the most important green areas in the city, the historic Parque Genovés . Ideal for a quiet stroll and relaxing among its more than 100 different types of trees and bushes. A symbol of the city and one of the best things to see in Cádiz.
14. Falla Theatre
Another emblematic place to see in Cadiz is the great Teatro Falla . From the outside it draws attention due to the red bricks of its façade and its three large horseshoe arch doors. In addition to its regular season of shows with concerts and plays, it is the place where the famous Carnival competition of the city is held.
15. Monument to the Constitution
Pay homage to the Spanish Constitution of 1812 (or better known as La Pepa) by visiting the monument erected in its honour in the city's Plaza de España. Because although it became obsolete over the years, at the time it was a revolutionary constitution that in a way reflected the liberal climate that prevailed in the city. And to learn about the history of 19th century Cádiz and all the secrets of the 1982 Constitution, join this interesting guided tour .
What to see and do in the province of Cadiz
16. Beaches of the Costa de la Luz
Explore the wonderful beaches of the wild Costa de la Luz . The list is very long, but here are some recommendations that you should not miss: Playa de los Alemanes , Las Calas de Roche , Zahara de los Atunes , Los Caños de Meca , El Palmar , Valdevaqueros and of course Bolonia and its incredible dune. If you are a beach traveler, here we tell you which are the 13 best beaches in Cádiz .
17. Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
Swap the beach for the mountain scenery in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and get your legs moving by walking along one of its beautiful trails, there are trails for all tastes and levels. A curious fact is that this is the rainiest place in Spain. Not in Galicia, not in Asturias, not in the Basque Country either... it rains the most in the Sierra de Cádiz! So just in case, don't forget to bring your raincoat.
18. Beautiful villages and white villages of Cadiz
One of the best things to do in the province of Cadiz is to venture out to discover its beautiful villages and see that they are more than up to par with its capital. Arcos de la Frontera , Setenil de las Bodegas , Zahara de la Sierra , Vejer de la Frontera and Medina Sidonia are just some of the prettiest, but there are many more!
Two interesting options to visit some of the towns in the province if you only have one day are these two excursions :
- Arcos de la Frontera (one of the most beautiful villages in Spain ), as well as Grazalema and Ubrique. More info .
- Vejer and Medina Sidonia . More info .
19. Rate
Practice kitesurfing and windsurfing on the beaches of Tarifa or go diving in its crystal-clear waters. Also, don't miss the opportunity to get to know a little more about this charming town. Stroll through its historic center, fill your stomach in its excellent restaurants, enjoy the views of Africa on the horizon and literally be amazed by its nightlife... surprisingly lively for such a small town 😉
Here we tell you 10 things to see and do in Tarifa.
20. Wineries of Jerez de la Frontera, something interesting to visit in Cadiz
Visit the famous wineries of Jerez de la Frontera and taste their wonderful wines. If you are lucky and your visit coincides with the Horse Fair (held during the month of May), you will be able to experience one of the best and most famous fairs in all of Andalusia.
We hope that this list of the best things to see and do in Cadiz and province will help you enjoy this wonderful land. But above all, don't forget that travel is also about the people we meet and without a doubt one of the best things to do in Cadiz and province is to enjoy its people, the grace and art of the people of Cadiz. Although generalizations are never good, in this case we can afford it 😉
