Guide to Cádiz, Spain

  • Last Updated: October 3, 2025

Cádiz is one of Europe’s oldest cities — a 3,000-year-old port town perched on a narrow spit of land reaching into the Atlantic. Founded by the Phoenicians and later ruled by Romans, Moors, and the Spanish crown, it’s packed with ancient watchtowers, faded Baroque churches, and crumbling stone walls that once guarded the gateway to the New World. Today, it blends salty old-world charm with buzzing plazas, a chilled surf scene, and some of the best beaches in southern Spain. With just over 110,000 residents, Cádiz is compact, authentic, and effortlessly cool.

It’s worth noting that “Cádiz” refers both to the historic city and the much larger province — and both are worth exploring. While the city sits on a peninsula in the Bay of Cádiz, the province stretches from the white villages of the Sierra de Grazalema to the wind-blasted beaches of Tarifa and Zahara. Cádiz province is home to the Costa de la Luz, a golden coast known for kitesurfing, tuna fishing, and low-key beach towns. So while the city is your cultural fix, the wider region is where you find Andalucía’s wild side.

Main Attractions in Cádiz City

Catedral de Cádiz ⛪

Pl. Catedral, s/n, 11005 Cádiz

The city’s landmark cathedral is a Baroque–Neoclassical masterpiece with a shimmering golden dome that catches the sunlight and the sea breeze. Built over 116 years starting in 1722, it reflects the riches Cádiz once commanded as Spain’s port to the Americas. Climb the Torre de Poniente for panoramic views of the city, sea, and surrounding rooftops. The cathedral square is always lively and makes for a great starting point for exploring the old town. Read More

Torre Tavira & the Camera Obscura 💡

C. Marqués del Real Tesoro, 10, 11001 Cádiz

Cádiz once had over 160 watchtowers, and Torre Tavira is the tallest. Originally used to spot incoming ships, it now houses a 360° rooftop viewpoint and a Camera Obscura, which projects real-time images of the city inside a darkened dome. It’s both historical and interactive — great for kids and first-timers wanting a bird’s-eye intro to the city. Read More

Mercado Central de Abastos 🛍️

C. Doña Blanca, 8, 11402 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz

Spain’s oldest covered market is still one of its best. Expect rows of fresh fish stalls (this is Cádiz, after all), local produce, and modern tapas bars spilling out into the square. It’s the heart of local life, ideal for a morning wander or a casual bite — and you’ll find everything from sea urchin to sherry pairings. Read More

Castillo de San Sebastián 🏰

GMHM+FH, P.º Fernando Quiñones, s/n, 11002 Cádiz, Spain

This fortress sits dramatically at the end of a causeway stretching into the sea, once guarding Cádiz from pirate raids. The walk out is especially romantic at sunset, with waves crashing on either side and views back over the city skyline. Occasionally used for exhibitions or concerts, it’s mostly free to roam — ideal for couples and photo-lovers. Read More

La Caleta Beach 🏖️

La Viña

Wedged between two castles, La Caleta is Cádiz’s most iconic beach — a small, sandy cove with fishing boats bobbing offshore. Locals swim here year-round, and in summer it turns into a laid-back beach scene with musicians, mojitos, and families watching the sun go down. It’s walkable from the old town and perfect for a quick dip or a full lazy day. Read More

Attractions in Cádiz Province (Beyond the City)

Cádiz province is an adventure in itself. Head south and you hit Tarifa, Europe’s southernmost point, famous for its wind sports, dolphin-watching, and views of Morocco. East takes you to the Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) like Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema, tucked into the mountains with cobbled lanes and Moorish castles. West of Cádiz city stretches the Costa de la Luz, a wild, under-the-radar coast with epic beaches like El Palmar, Zahara de los Atunes, and Bolonia (don’t miss the Roman ruins). Inland, Jerez de la Frontera brings flamenco, sherry bodegas, and Andalusian horse shows. Cádiz isn’t just a city — it’s a launchpad to some of the most soulful and unspoiled parts of southern Spain.

Cádiz Festival Calendar

For more top events around Andalucía, check out our ‘Best Festivals and Cultural Highlights in Andalucía‘ Guide!

For more recommended places to stay in Cádiz, check out our ‘Guide to the Best Hotels in Cádiz‘ Guide!

Did you enjoy this city Guide? Check out more City Guides for Málaga, Granada, Sierra Nevada, Ronda, Jerez de la Frontera, Seville, and more!