March 27, 2025, 9:21 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Barcelona is one of the most popular and most visited city destinations in Europe. This is hardly surprising, as the city not only has a lot of culture to offer, such as the world-famous Sagrada Família, but also beaches and the sea. If you want to combine a city and beach vacation in Spain, there is an equally beautiful and culturally significant alternative in the south of the country: Cádiz.
It’s not that Cádiz is unknown among vacationers. However, it tends to be the Spaniards who spend their summer vacation here or explore the beautiful port city on Andalusia’s Costa de la Luz on a short trip. Spring is particularly worthwhile for a city trip to Cádiz. When the mild evenings begin, people are drawn outside to the parks, bars, and nightclubs between the harbor promenade and Plaza Mina. There is a very special atmosphere then. TRAVELBOOK reveals why a visit to Cádiz is definitely worthwhile.
Overview
One of the Oldest Cities in Europe
Cádiz was founded around 3000 years ago by the Phoenicians, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. The city, with its whitewashed houses and historic buildings, sits on a headland, flanked by water. On the side facing the open sea is a kilometer-long sandy beach.
Sights in Cádiz
The old town is particularly worth seeing. It is a kind of labyrinth of cobbled squares and alleyways with colorful facades, pretty cafés, and lively bars. Almost all of the city’s sights can be found here and at the harbor.
A popular photo motif is the 18th-century cathedral with its two domed towers. However, the Church of the Holy Cross from the 13th century is much older — and just as worth seeing. Another special attraction is the Santa Cueva (Holy Cave), with works by the master Goya.
If you want to see where Halle Berry climbed out of the water in the James Bond film Die Another Day in a scene captured in beautiful photos, you have to go to the city beach by the old bathhouse. Other sights include the San Sebastian fortress on the harbor promenade, the Santa Catalina castle, the representative squares Plaza de España, Plaza Constitución, and Plaza Mina, as well as the Museo de las Cortes Cádiz (Museum of the History of Cádiz).
Eating and Going Out in Cádiz
Those looking forward to a good paella or fresh tapas can simply stroll through the Barrio de la Vina district in the evening. The Plaza de San Juan de Dios and Plaza Mina are home to the best restaurants and bars.
In Cádiz, the street ‘La Punta,’ nestled between the harbor and Plaza de España, is a particular favorite among night owls. There are dozens of discos and clubs here. Other popular meeting places for young people can be found in Plaza de San Francisco, Calle Rosario, Calle Manuel Rances, and Calle General Munoz Arenillas.
Location of Cádiz on the Map
The world-famous Alhambra is located here The Best Tips for a City Break in Granada
From Ilhabela to Wharariki TRAVELBOOK editors reveal their favorite destinations
Hidden Gem in Italy This City Is as Beautiful as Florence — Only Without the Tourist Crowds
The Best Time to Visit Cádiz
Anyone visiting Cádiz on Andalusia’s Costa de la Luz in July and August should definitely take the heat into account. You might find it best to spend your days in resorts like Conil de Frontera and venture into the city as the evening cools.
Those who prefer moderate temperatures and cooler nights should travel to the Andalusian city in October or November. For those eager to soak in the culture and sights, early May is the ideal time for city travelers. Also, consider a February detour to experience the vibrant carnival in Cádiz and the timeless sherry bodegas of Jerez de la Frontera. The latter is open for visits throughout the year.