Its historic centre boasts picturesque plazas, narrow streets, and whitewashed buildings that exude an authentic Andalusian ambience.
Indulge in the city’s vibrant food scene, savouring fresh seafood, traditional dishes, local wines and, of course, sherries.
Beaches in Cadiz
In the historic quarter of Cádiz, Playa de la Caleta is a delightful urban beach surrounded by the castles Castillo de Santa Catalina and Castillo de San Sebastián. It is relatively small, so the beach can get quite busy on weekends. Fans of the Bond movies may recognize it from the 2002 film ‘Die Another Day’, where Halle Berry emerged from the water in a bikini, catching Bond’s eye. It was meant to represent Havana in Cuba.
Playa de la Victoria in Cádiz is the go-to beach for visitors, as it spans nearly 3 kilometres along the city’s coastline. Its fine golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of beachfront restaurants and chiringuitos make it an ideal spot for locals and visitors. It’s also the best beach in Cadiz for sunsets.
Playa de la Cortadura is just a short drive or bus ride from the city. This beach is renowned for its serene environment and natural charm, attracting locals and tourists seeking a peaceful getaway. The beach offers a spacious shoreline, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely walks by the sea. Its shallow waters also make it an ideal destination for families with children.
Cadiz City
One of the advantages of Cadiz for visitors is that it is very walkable. Most ‘attractions’ are within easy walking distance or, at most, a short bus/ taxi ride away. Here are our favorite places to see in Cadiz:
Cadiz Cathedral- As cathedrals in Spain go, the Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz is not that impressive. However, the view from the tower- Torre de Poniente- is worth the entrance fee. Also, check out the remains of seashells in the stone blocks.
Tavira Tower- Merchants in the past constructed these “watchtowers” all around the city to keep an eye on their ships and their cargo arriving from the Americas. Nowadays, visitors can ascend the stairs and relish one of the finest views of Cadiz.
Paseo Marítimo de Cadiz- A walk along the seafront promenade gives you a great view of the golden dome of the Cathedral on one side and the surprisingly clear waters of the Atlantic on the other. You can follow a cycle track down to Playa de la Victoria and further.
Restaurants in Cadiz
Cadiz boasts some of the finest seafood in the world, along with a plethora of tapas bars and exquisite sherries, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Below are some of our top places to eat in Cadiz.
Our favorite breakfast/ brunch spot in Cadiz was El Café de Ana, just off the square.
La Viña is a relaxed neighborhood that boasts some of Cadiz’s finest tapas, bars, and seafood restaurants. La Isleta de La Viña is a great neighborhood place to eat. Friendly staff and the food is good value. Try the pork cheeks with lemon risotto; their vegetarian options are also good. Taberna Casa Manteca is a very small, friendly, and busy bar with great chicharrones especiales- thinly sliced cured pork belly with lemon and spices- and a good selection of local sherry by the glass.
In the market- Mercado Central Cádiz– there are many great casual eating options, but you should go for the fish options. The tuna here is world-class quality, and of course, just like Rick Stein, we visited Gadisushi. The place is modest, with only a handful of tables and chairs. Yet, the tuna sashimi served here during the months of May and June, in particular, is exceptional considering its price, particularly the Otoro- tuna belly. Also in the market is dosbocados which has probably the best tuna sandwich you’ve ever eaten
On the beach, Beach Club Potito and Tirabuzón are right on the sand, with great cocktails, friendly service, and beautiful sunsets.
Looking for something different? Restaurante Puerta del Edén is a hidden gem tucked away in a charming backstreet location and offers the best Moroccan and Middle Eastern food in Cadiz. Falafels and shawarmas are particularly good, the welcome is warm, and the beer is ice cold!
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