Each year, Cadiz and its attractions in Spain are visited by thousands of tourists. The city is located on an area of just over 12 square kilometers and the entire perimeter is surrounded by the sea. During the vacation season, the city is noticeably empty – despite the abundance of beauty around, the locals try to get out on vacation and change the scenery. Going on a trip to the ancient city, the tourist better know in advance how to get there and what to visit.
Cadiz – a city at the edge of the world
The ancient city of Europe was founded by the Phoenicians a few centuries BC. Vandals, Romans and Arabs ruled in Cadiz, but its name did not change. Repeatedly it has been attacked by pirates, some sights have been destroyed.
When mentioning the location of Cadiz, the phrase “at the end of the world” is repeatedly used. This is partly true – if you look at a map of Europe, the city occupies the extreme point of the Iberian Peninsula. America and other continents were not discovered at that time. Therefore, from the point of view of scientists and sailors, it was on the Andalusian coast that the edge of the world was located.
Cadiz received its status as the main port of Spain in the 17th century. From here to the shores of the New World started the Columbus expedition. Later, ships left the city port for Africa and South America. Today it is a resort and port town with clean streets and white-washed houses.
The ideal time to travel is late spring or early fall. In June-July, the coast is hot and the water gets very warm. In August and September, the air temperature drops markedly, but the water is warm enough for comfortable bathing. In October in Andalusia begins the rainy season, which lasts until spring. In February, thousands of people flock to Cadiz Carnival, which in scope is barely inferior to a similar event in Rio de Genheiro.
Top 9 attractions in Cadiz
Tourists can see them on their own or go on a guided tour. It will take 1-2 days to review on your own, but at a reasonable price you can get to know the basic sights in a few hours.
The sights that are recommended to see in Cadiz, Spain are listed below.
Earth Gate
Earth Gate – built in the 16th century, was part of the fortifications. The entrance located under the gate was for a long time the only way to enter the city by land. The Earth Gate now separates the old quarters from the modern neighborhoods.
Cadiz Museum
Museum of Cadiz – is rightly considered the main attraction of the resort, which should not be missed. The interior of the museum is reminiscent of similar institutions in the USSR: no special effects and digital technology. The three-story building is located on Plaza de Mina. The first floor is devoted to the archaeological collection. On the second floor visitors can admire works of art of different styles and eras. The third floor is occupied by an exhibit of theatrical puppets, which were intended to mock the authorities at the Tia Norika Carnival. Thematic exhibitions are also held periodically.
Citizens of the European Union visit the museum for free, others have to pay 1.5 euros for admission.
Torre Tavira Mansion
The Torre Tavira mansion is famous not so much for its architecture as for the tower with the observation deck. On sunny days, the views of the old and new neighborhoods are spectacular. Those who wish can see the museum collection, which is located on the first and second floors of the mansion.
San Sebastian Fortress
San Sebastian Fortress is a medieval structure on an island opposite La Caleta Beach (the westernmost point of the Andalusian coast). You can get to the castle on foot along the bulk path. The structure has an asymmetrical shape. The first building on the island was a chapel – it was built by Venetians who escaped the plague in the 15th century. Two centuries later a fortress was built. The island offers a picturesque view of the bay and the old town. An electric lighthouse, 41 meters high, survived to this day.
Cathedral
The Cathedral of Cadiz is a symbol of the city and a must-see. The highlight is that for two centuries the cathedral was built by architects belonging to different religious denominations. Also, during the construction process different materials were used in terms of composition and quality. The architectural style of the multicolored cathedral combines elements of Rococo, Baroque, and Neoclassical.
Fortress of Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina Fortress is the oldest fortification built in 1598. For a long time it protected the townspeople from invasions by enemy troops, then served as a prison. The star-shaped fort has been preserved in its original form. Today, Santa Catalina is a popular location for filming and festivals and concerts.
Roman theater
The Roman theater was built in the 1st century AD and seated up to 20,000 spectators. The theater has been repeatedly destroyed and restored. Today it is surrounded by modern urban neighborhoods. During the season, the theater has performances for tourists.
Genoese Park
Genoese Park – located in the coastal zone and delights visitors with unique plants imported from America. On a hot afternoon pleasant stroll through the shady alleys among the palm trees, cypresses, plane trees. There are artificial ponds, waterfalls and fountains, which are illuminated in different colors at night. From here you have an interesting view of the fortress of San Sebastian.
Plaza de España
Plaza de Espania is a central square with fountains, cafes, stores, and souvenir shops. A lot of people are observed here in the evening. On the square is the famous Constitution Monument.
Holidays in Cadiz
Numerous beaches are rightly equated with the attractions of the city. They are located within the city limits and can be reached on foot, by public transport or rented cars. The main difference from other resorts – the beach area is not built up with hotels, anyone can freely enter the territory. Hotel complexes are located a little away from the coastline, mostly within walking distance of the sea.
During the vacation season it is recommended to book a room well in advance to avoid problems with accommodation.
The beaches are clean and equipped with the necessary infrastructure. Everyone chooses the place to his liking: some tourists like the quiet away from civilization, others need comfort and entertainment. Entrance to the beach area is free, but for an umbrella, sun lounger, attractions have to pay separately.
Popular recreation areas:
- Cortadura is a wild sandy beach, stretching for 10 km. Most of the area lacks any infrastructure. But you can always find a quiet place, a break from civilization, to listen to the whisper of the waves and the cries of seagulls. Surfing fans come here during the season.
- Victoria is a beach on the Atlantic coast of Spain overlooking the old city. The territory has everything for a comfortable pastime: water attractions, children’s and sports grounds, awnings, sun loungers, cabins. Equipped with a promenade with numerous cafes, stores, souvenir shops.
- Conil de la Frontera is a nudist beach, fenced off from prying eyes by stones. There is no infrastructure, but you can relax, relax alone with wildlife. It is relatively difficult to get here, so the beach is not crowded.
- Santa Maria del Mar is a small but equipped beach. In addition to awnings, sun loungers and cafes for tourists functioning rental of surfing equipment. It is easy to get here by public transport.
- La Caleta – the smallest beach, located in the old part of town. It is a must-see for romantics in the evening – you can watch stunning sunsets from here.
Gastronomic Paradise of Cadiz
When the sights are explored, what else is left to see in Cadiz besides the beaches? Of course, be sure to try the seafood. The main product is the gifts of the sea: fish, shrimp, cuttlefish, squid, clams. As a garnish are vegetables, generously flavored with olive oil. You can go to any café or restaurant, but the true paradise for gourmets is the central market, founded in 1928 on the site of the former market square.
The excursion to the market is worth it: firstly, it is one of the oldest bazaars in Spain, and secondly, while walking through the rows of shops you can enjoy a lot of local color. In addition to the range of products will please you with the prices – a kilogram of fresh seafood will cost 4-10 euros. In the market there are points where the chefs right before the eyes of tourists turn the gifts of the sea into mind-blowing dishes.
In addition to fish and seafood the stalls are full of vegetables, fruits, nuts, herbs, fragrant spices and other delicacies.
The best time to visit is early in the morning, when fresh fish arrives. During the siesta from 15:00 to 18:30 market is not working.
How to get to Cadiz?
It’s easier to get to the Andalusian resort of Jerez de la Frontera. Regular flights from Madrid and Barcelona arrive there every day, regardless of the time of year. From the airport tourists are taken by cab or public transport. By cab, the trip will take half an hour, but the fare will cost an average of 40 euros. A budget option is a shuttle bus. You will have to spend more time on the way, but the ticket costs only 10 euros. Those who wish can fly to Seville or Málaga. There are regular buses from there, but the trip will take longer.
There are daily trains from Madrid to Cadiz. The cost of the ticket is about 60-70 euros. Sitting in a comfortable coach, for 5 hours you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery.
Cadiz on the map of Spain
