Cadiz might not be the first place you think of visiting in Spain, but it is a city well worth a day or two of your time. Cadiz is the oldest inhabited city in Spain and one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a long and exciting history reflected in its architecture and culture.

Another exciting fact is that Christopher Columbus chose Cadiz as his departure port to sail and discover the new world. It established Cadiz as one of Europe’s most important ports with trading links to America. 

If you’re looking for a city with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do, Cadiz is worth a visit. So what are you waiting for?

2-days itinerary for Cadiz

As soon as you arrive in Cadiz, you can tell this place is special. The historic centre is located on an island connected by bridges to the mainland, and it’s gorgeous. 

Whether you come for an individual trip or part of your Andalucia road trip, there are plenty of things to do and see in Cadiz. Let us show you how to organize your trip to Cadiz with inside tips, recommendations on where to eat, and fantastic day trips you can do. 

Day 1 of your Cadiz itinerary

To get a sense of the city’s history and culture, start by exploring the historic centre. Here you’ll find some of Cadiz’s most beautiful buildings and squares.

Dive into the city’s history at Teatro Romano

A well-preserved Roman theatre is one of the largest built during the Roman Empire. It features an exhibition area outlining the history and design. The entrance to this historical site is free. 

The Travel Momento Tip: The entrance to the Roman theatre in Cadiz is from a small side street. Use walking instructions on Google instead of driving to find the exact location. 

Other things to see in Cadiz for history lovers:

• Gadir (YACIMIENTO ARQUEOLÓGICO): small museum presenting the evolution of Cadiz from Phoenicians to Roman times
• Museum of Cadiz: housing a collection of Roman and Phoenician artefacts
• Museum of Fine Arts 
• Archaeological Museum

Admire the outstanding Cadiz cathedral

One of Cadiz’s key attraction and a must-see item on your Cadiz itinerary is withouth a doubt the Santa Cruz cathedral built in 18th century on the ruins of a historic Muslim mosque. For a long time it was also known as “The Cathedral of the Americas” because the money for its construction came from the trade profits between Spain and the New World (America).

The original cathedral plans were designed by the same architect who drawn the plans for the cathedral in Granada. However, as it took a long time to construct the latter, these plans were altered. Instead of a baroque monument, it was completed in a neoclassical style with rococo elements.

You can climb up one of the two towers and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. 

Other churches to explore nearby:

• Iglesia de Santa Maria (Santa Maria church)
• Iglesia de San Juan De Dios (San Juan de Dios church)
• Oratorio de la Santa Cueva

People watching at the grand square Plaza de Espana

One of the most popular spots in town is Plaza de Espana, which is lined with cafes and bars that offer great views of the ocean.

Relax at the coastal promenade

To appreciate the city’s beauty, you must visit Paseo del Campo del Sur. Then, take a stroll along the west coast or relax on a bench while admiring the beauty of this city. 

It is by no doubt one of the most photographed locations in Cadiz. You will recognise it as one of the picturesque photos from the postcards – sand-washed walls and colourful houses lining the promenade with the tall Cathedral and its golden roof as a perfect background. 

 Here is where you can watch the best sunsets and sunrises in Cadiz.

Other interesting promenade spots to relax and enjoy the views:

• Paseo del Vendaval
• Paseo Canalejas

The Travel Momento Tip: There are not plenty of cafes or restaurants with sea views along the promenade. We found a few that were closed (possibly due to Covid). To get a refreshment or a snack, you need to walk up to the castle or turn right into the old town.

Enjoy the colourful views of Cadiz from above

One of our favourite things on this Cadiz itinerary is the old watchtower of Morrish origin. The Torre de Tavira (or Tavira tower) is not just an observation tower but also a camera obscura. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century and was part of a defence watchtower line across the coast of Southern Spain.

Today, Torre Tavira is one of the 134 watchtowers still standing, the tallest at 45 meters high above sea level. It offers a stunning 360 degrees panorama view of Cadiz city and the coast.

Step into the ancient military prison at Santa Catalina Castle

Out of two castles on the island, the Castle of San Sebastian and the Castle of Santa Catalina, the latter is by far our favourite. The Castillo de San Sebastian is currently closed but you can still walk up to it and enjoy the backdrop. 

The Castillo de Santa Catalina was built in the 17th century and presents an important example of the military architecture of the Modern Age. Former military prison today offers art exhibitions and great views over the Atlantic ocean. 

Admire the gorgeous and unique Gran Teatro Falla

Another architectural gem you should add to your Cadiz itinerary is Gran Teatro Falla. Its neo-Mudejar exterior made of red bricks will make you want to sit there for hours admiring its beauty. The interior follows the Spanish Arab style with rich and colourful decorations. You can book a performance here. 

Explore unique forestry at Parque Genoves

Following the path towards the beach, you will arrive at another garden featuring attractive and unique-shaped trees and plants. In the middle of the park, you can find a fountain sculpture and an artificial water cascade with steps to the top offering views over Atlantic ocean. 

There are plenty of benches to sit down and relax. You can also find a small cafe to refresh yourself during the hot summer months. It’s a perfect place to take a break from walking and shelter from the sun in the summer.

Indulge on tapas and Sangria at La Viña

Finish your day exploring Cadiz in the charming neighbourhood of La Viña. This area is famous for its tapas, bars and nightlife, so it’s worth visiting at night as well as during the day.

Day 2 of your Cadiz itinerary

On your second day in Cadiz, you can explore the rest of the city centre or head to the beach. 

Cadiz has many options to offer if you’re looking for a beach to relax on. Located a short walk from the historic centre of Cadiz, you can choose between three beaches:

• Playa de la Caleta: small sandy beach
• Playa Victoria: long fine white sandy beach; one of Cádiz’s most popular beaches; being so close to the city, it is always brimming with locals
• Playa de Santa Maria del Mar

These beaches are reachable by bus (lines 2 and 7). However, there is limited shade, so bring your umbrella or go when the sun is not too intense.  

For a different experience, head to the narrow part of Cadiz island that connects it with the mainland. Here you can find an almost 3,5 km long area of golden sand beaches and dunes streching along the road Avenida Vida Augusta Julia:

• Playa de Torregorda
• Playa de Chato
• Playa de la Cortadura

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to one of the nearby beaches.

Beaches north of Cadiz:

• Punta Candor
• Castilla
• Cuesta Maneli
• Rompeculos
• Los Enebrales
• Nueva Umbria

To reach most of the beaches north of Cadiz, you must go almost to Seville and turn left back to the coastline. 

Beaches south of Cadiz:

• Aceite
• Castilnovo
• Mangueta
• La Cortina
• El Canuelo
• Bolonia

Another option is to rent a boat and admire the city of Cadiz from the sea.

Day trips from Cadiz

Cadiz is ideally located to serve as a base to explore the western side of Andalusia or even to head and explore Portugal. 

Here are our recommendations for the best day trips from Cadiz:

• Jerez de la Frontera: city with a stunning cathedral known for horses and one of the best wines of this region (sherry wine tasting is a must!)
• Vejer de la Frontera
• Seville
• Gibraltar
• White villages: Arcos de la Frontera, Ronda, Olvera

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Essential Information

Where is Cadiz located?

Cadiz is located on the coast of Andalusia in southern Spain. The city has a Mediterranean climate, with warm winters and hot summers. Cadiz is a great place to visit if you’re looking for sunny weather and beautiful beaches.

How many days in Cadiz?

Though you can visit Cadiz as a 1-day trip, we recommend staying for two or three days. It all depends on your possibilities.

What is the best way to explore Cadiz?

The best way to get a feel for the city is to walk around its narrow streets or take a walking tour of Cadiz’s old town. Strolling around the city on your feet and getting lost in its alleyway and plazas will reveal so much about Cadiz’s character history and provide you with the best views. There are plenty of exciting things to do in Cadiz on every street corner.

How to get around Cadiz?

If you want to visit surrounding cities or make a road trip through Andalucia, you need to rent a car. There are only a few rail connections to some of the must-see places in Andalucia.

Having a car will allow you to visit nearby beaches and cities such as Conil de la Frontera, Vejer de la Frontera, and Jerez de la Frontera.

Where to stay in Cadiz?

Cadiz is divided into the old part and the new part of town. Whilst the new part has large streets and modern buildings, the old part keeps its medieval style from the 16th century, with narrow alleys and hidden squares, and is easily walkable. However, if you stay in the new part of town overnight, you will need to take a bus to reach the old centre, unless you are okay with some walking.

What is a typical food in Cadiz and where is the best place to eat it?

The local dishes Cadiz is famous for are shrimp omelet (Tortilla de Camarones), fried nettles (sea anemone), fried fish (pescaíto frito), tuna, potatoes with choco (cuttlefish and potato stew), huevos aliñadas (seasoned fish roe), and pestiños (honey fritters).

The best place to eat Cadiz traditional food:

• Bar La Tabernita
• Meson Cumbres Mayores
• Casa Manteca

The Travel Momento Tip: Make sure to book your table; otherwise, it's pretty impossible to find a place that is not fast food.

Conclusion

Considering the array of things to do and attractions in Cadiz, it’s easy to see why so many people love visiting this charming coastal city. When exploring it, you can expect an authentic experience — from what you eat to the places you see and the activities you do.

Cadiz should definitely be on your list of places to check out if you’re looking for an authentic and unforgettable Spanish vacation. The food, culture, and history are all worth exploring!