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There are great many things to do in Spain, and so are in Cadiz.
Cadiz is a gem that sparkles brightly on the southern coast of Spain, beckoning travelers with its historic streets, charming plazas, and enticing beaches.
A city rich in heritage and culture, Cadiz offers a plethora of activities and experiences that will leave you spellbound.
From the lively attractions of the old town to the tranquil beauty of La Caleta, there’s no shortage of things to do in this sunny and vibrant city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Cadiz:
1. Castle of San Sebastián
Historic castle situated on the coast of Cadiz province, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore the architecture and beautifully preserved 18th-century military fortifications. Enjoy stunning views of the sea and the iconic La Caleta beach.
Take a walk around the gardens and visit the nearby museum which exhibits paintings, sculptures and other artistic items depicting the castle’s history.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from the top of the castle and taking a stroll around the elegant promenade in the evening.
Insider travel tips: – The castle is open every day from 10am to 8pm, with an entrance fee of €5.
2. Cádiz Cathedral
Gothic-style cathedral in the heart of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture and rich history of the cathedral, including the intricate gold-plated altarpiece and the crypt of the infamous composer, Manuel de Falla.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s fascinating past.
Don’t miss: Climbing the cathedral tower for breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.
Insider travel tips: Visit the cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and hot temperatures. Consider attending a Mass or choir performance for a unique spiritual experience.
Photography without flash is allowed inside the cathedral.
3. La Caleta Beach
La Caleta Beach is a small and picturesque beach located in the historic port city of Cadiz, in southern Spain.
What to see or do: Sunbathe, swim in the calm waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade that lines the beach.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the historic Castillo de San Sebastián and the Castillo de Santa Catalina, two fortresses that adorn the rocky outcrops on either side of the beach.
Insider travel tips: – La Caleta is a popular beach, so plan to arrive early in the day to secure a good spot.
4. Roman Theater of Cádiz
The Roman Theater of Cádiz is a historic theater dating back to the 1st century AD and is the oldest known monument in the city of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the ancient ruins of the theater and imagine what it was like to attend a performance here during the Roman era.
There are information panels throughout the site for context and historical information.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive stage wall which still stands and features several arches and columns.
Insider travel tips: The theater is included in the “Gran Teatro Falla” ticket, so if you’re interested in seeing both sites, make the most of your ticket.
There is also a small gift shop on site where you can purchase souvenirs.
5. San Felipe Neri Oratory
The San Felipe Neri Oratory is a baroque-style church located in the heart of Cadiz in southern Spain. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its impressive white-marbled altar and beautiful frescoes.
What to see or do: One of the highlights of the San Felipe Neri Oratory is the intricate design of the marble altar which is a true masterpiece.
Visitors can also admire the blue vaulted ceilings adorned with frescoes of Biblical scenes, and impressive paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán and other renowned artists.
Don’t miss: The Oratory’s artistic and architectural blend of baroque, rococo, and neoclassical styles is an amazing example of Cadiz’s rich history and cultural heritage.
While exploring the Oratory, make sure to look closely at the details and sculptures to fully appreciate its ornate beauty.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should dress appropriately when entering the Oratory, covering their shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site. It is also recommended to visit in the morning to avoid large crowds.
Make sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the history, art, and architecture of the Oratory.
6. Tavira Tower
Tavira Tower is an iconic landmark located in the Spanish city of Cadiz, overlooking the stunning Bay of Cadiz.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the tower’s 150 steps to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the surrounding landscape.
The impressive telescopes installed on the rooftop provide a closer look at the city’s landmarks, including the Cathedral and the Roman Theater.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive Camera Obscura, an ancient optical device that projects a live image of the city onto a concave screen inside a dark room on the tower’s top floor.
It’s a unique way to view the city from a different perspective.
Insider travel tips: Visit the tower early in the morning to avoid long queues and crowds, and to capture stunning sunrise views. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the steep climb to the top.
If possible, book a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the tower.
7. Plaza de España
A picturesque square and popular landmark located in the heart of the old town of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture of the square’s historic buildings, take stunning photos at the impressive fountain, and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the leafy park.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the city from the top of the square’s bell tower, which can be accessed by climbing a narrow spiral staircase.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and make sure to sample some delicious local tapas at one of the nearby bars or restaurants.
8. Cortadura Beach
Cortadura Beach is a beautiful and lively stretch of golden sand located in the city of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy relaxing in the sun, swimming in the sparkling blue waters, and taking part in water sports such as windsurfing and kayaking.
There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby where you can grab a refreshing drink or a bite to eat.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets that grace the beach each evening. It’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll or a peaceful moment to reflect.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the morning or during the off-season. Additionally, be sure to bring a good sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Finally, keep in mind that parking can be difficult during peak season, so consider taking public transportation or walking to the beach instead.
9. The Admiral’s House
The Admiral’s House is a historic building located in the heart of Cadiz, Spain. The building was once the residence of the city’s first admiral, and it has since been converted into a museum.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various rooms of The Admiral’s House and learn about its rich history.
The museum houses numerous artifacts and exhibits related to the city’s maritime past and the life of its famous naval hero, Admiral Antonio Barceló.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the stunning views of the city and the sea from the rooftop terrace. The beautiful architecture of the building itself is also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit The Admiral’s House early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. If you’re interested in history and maritime culture, this is definitely a must-visit site in Cadiz.
A guided tour can provide a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the building.
10. Santo Domingo Square
A beautiful square located in the historic center of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the baroque Santa Cruz church and the neoclassical City Hall. Take a leisurely stroll around the lush gardens and fountain at the center of the square.
Don’t miss: The many cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching and relaxing with a drink or meal.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening when the square comes alive with locals and tourists alike. The nearby Mercado Central is a great place to try some delicious local cuisine.
Also, keep an eye out for live music, dance performances, and other cultural events that often take place in the square.
11. Santa Catalina Castle
Santa Catalina Castle is a historic fortress located in the city of Cadiz in Spain.
It was built in the 16th century to defend the city from pirate attacks and to control the entrance to the port.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to explore its various sections, such as the castle walls, the baroque chapel, and the lookout tower.
The tour also includes a visit to the small museum inside the castle, which displays various artifacts related to the castle’s history.
Don’t miss: The best attraction of the castle is the panoramic view of the city and the sea, which can be seen from the top of the lookout tower.
This is the perfect place to take amazing photos and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the ocean.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved in the tour.
12. Museum of Cádiz
The Museum of Cádiz is a fine arts and archaeology museum located in the historic city of Cádiz, Spain.
What to see or do: View art collections ranging from paintings to sculptures to contemporary art, in addition to ancient artifacts including Phoenician sarcophagi, Roman mosaic floors, and Moorish ceramics.
Don’t miss: The archaeological section of the museum offers an impressive collection of artifacts from different civilizations which have shaped the history and culture of Cádiz.
Be sure to check out the famous sarcophagi of the Phoenician era, which are considered a remarkable legacy of the civilization.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
13. Genovés Park
Genovés Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Cadiz, a historic coastal city in southwestern Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its winding paths while taking in the exotic flora and fauna in the park’s lush greenery.
The park also houses several architecturally impressive structures, including a stunning aviary and a colonial-style pavilion.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s highlights is the Mirador del Parque, or the “Park Viewpoint,” which offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding coastline.
Another must-see attraction is the botanical garden, which features a wide variety of plant species from different parts of the world.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, it’s best to visit the park early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Visitors should also bring comfortable shoes as the park is quite large and can take some time to explore fully.
Additionally, the park is situated adjacent to Caleta Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, making it a perfect combination for a day trip in Cadiz.
14. Cadiz City Walls
The city walls in Cadiz were built between the 16th and 18th centuries to protect the city from invasions and are one of the main tourist attractions in the city.
What to see or do: You can walk around the city walls and take in the beautiful views of the ocean and the city from the top.
The walls also have various gates and towers that you can explore and learn about the history of the city.
Don’t miss: The Puerta de Tierra gate, which dates back to the 16th century and served as the main entrance to the city.
The Baluarte de la Candelaria, which is located at the end of the walls and offers stunning views of the ocean and the coast.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the walls is during sunset when the views are especially beautiful. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps and uneven surfaces.
Additionally, visitors should be cautious of pickpockets in the area.
15. Torreón de la Palma
Torreón de la Palma is a historic tower located in the city of Cadiz, Spain.
What to see or do: The tower offers panoramic views of the city and the sea from the top.
Visitors can explore the tower’s interior and learn about its history, including its use as a defensive structure during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Don’t miss: The tower’s unique architecture, which integrates elements of Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
Insider travel tips: – The tower can be accessed via a narrow and steep spiral staircase, so visitors with mobility restrictions should take this into consideration.