Top Things to Do and See in Cadiz, Spain
- Emily Anne
- May 25
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
SUMMARY
This travel guide covers the best things to do in Cadiz, Spain—a coastal gem with an extensive history, seafood tapas around almost every corner, and a relaxed vibe. From panoramic city views at Torre Tavira and archaeological ruins to authentic flamenco and golden beaches, this post shares personal experiences and practical tips for anyone planning a visit to this underrated Andalusian city.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
My List of the Best Things to Do in Cadiz, Spain!
CÁDIZ CATHEDRAL
Right in the heart of the old town, the Cádiz Cathedral is impossible to ignore. The Cathedral's golden dome stands out from almost any part of the city and looks especially beautiful from the waterfront. Construction on the Cathedral began in 1722 and took over 100 years to complete, which explains its blend of baroque and neoclassical styles. Inside, the Cathedral is impressive but not overwhelming, with sixteen small chapels, a crypt where composer Manuel de Falla is buried, and an intricately carved wooden choir. The bell tower climb is a must—just time it so you're not at the top when the bells ring (every 15 minutes). Entry is 7 euros, and you can usually buy tickets at the door without much of a wait.
MERCADO CENTRAL DE ABASTOS
This market is the heartbeat of Cádiz. Locals have been shopping here since 1838, and it's still where people come for fresh fish, produce, meats, and cheese. More than 100 stalls fill the building, and the energy is contagious. The real fun, though, is along the perimeter, where food stalls dish out everything from sushi and kebabs to fried seafood and paella. Grab a tapa and a glass of manzanilla and find a seat in the nearby Plaza de las Flores to enjoy the atmosphere. Around the corner, Café Royalty is a historic café with gorgeous interiors—worth stopping in for a slow café con leche.
TORRE TAVIRA & CAMERA OBSCURA
Torre Tavira was once the city's official watchtower, keeping an eye on incoming ships from the Americas. Today, it offers the best panoramic views in Cádiz. Book ahead for the Camera Obscura experience—a guide uses a clever system of mirrors to give a real-time 360º tour of the city on a circular screen inside a dark room. Afterward, climb to the top for unbeatable photos. It's one of the coolest and most unique ways to understand the city's layout.
YACIMIENTO ARQUEÓLOGICO GADIR
This archaeological site is hidden beneath the La Tía Norica puppet theater and offers a window into Cádiz's ancient Phoenician roots. You walk along glass walkways above excavated streets and dwellings dating back over 3,000 years. The tour is free and includes Phoenician and Roman ruins, making it a short but fascinating stop if you're into ancient history. Museum hours can vary, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time to make sure you plan your visit during open hours—especially if you're trying to fit it into a busy day of sightseeing.
TEATRO ROMANO DE CÁDIZ
This Roman theater was buried under a Moorish fortress for centuries and wasn't rediscovered until 1980. It's one of the largest Roman theaters on the Iberian Peninsula and once held over 10,000 people. The on-site museum displays artifacts uncovered during the excavation, and you can walk through the vomitorium (yes, that's what it's called) and sit in the partially restored seats. It's free to enter and surprisingly quiet, even during peak season.
PARQUÉ GENOVES
This seaside park is great for a shaded stroll. It has winding paths, large topiary bushes, palm trees, and a manmade waterfall cave that's a hit with kids. There's a café inside for snacks or a drink. For more greenery and water views, keep walking to Jardines de la Alameda or the nearby Marquis de Comillas monument. If you follow the coastal path from here, you'll eventually hit Castillo de Santa Catalina.
CASTILLOS DE SANTA CATALINA & SAN SEBASTIÁN
These two castles are perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk. Castillo de Santa Catalina is a 16th-century star-shaped fortress with a small chapel and occasional exhibitions. It also includes a somber exhibit on the deadly 1947 military explosion in Cádiz. Entry is free. From there, follow the path to Castillo de San Sebastián, which sits on a small island connected by a long causeway. Even if the castle is closed (it often is), the walk is stunning and a favorite for locals around sunset. Playa de La Caleta is between the two castles and was once featured in the Bond movie Die Another Day.
TAPAS AT BAR LA TABERNITA
Located in the buzzing Barrio de la Viña, Bar La Tabernita is small, always packed, and worth the wait. We tried grilled octopus, shrimp skewers, and papas aliñás. Their cazón al coñac (dogfish in brandy) was another standout. The vibe is casual and energetic, and the sherry flows freely. If you're doing a tapas crawl, continue on to Casa Manteca for chicharrones (pork cracklings) and rustic payoyo cheese, then stop by La Candela in Barrio de San Juan for a modern spin on Andalusian-Asian fusion dishes.
FLAMENCO AT TABERNA LA MANZANILLA
Cádiz holds a special place in the history of flamenco—it's considered one of its birthplaces. Many of the most influential flamenco forms, or "palos," originated here, especially the lively and complex Alegrías de Cádiz. You don't need to seek out a big stage to feel its impact on Cadiz's culture and life. The most powerful moments often come from bars like Taberna La Manzanilla, where the music is raw, personal, and completely unscripted.
If you want an authentic flamenco experience without the stage lights and ticket counters, Taberna La Manzanilla is your place. This unassuming bar serves up spontaneous, soulful performances in a room filled with locals. Order a glass of manzanilla sherry, lean against the bar, and let the music wash over you.
INDULGE IN PASTRIES & GELATO
For something sweet during your time in Cadiz, pop into La Trufa for palmeras and gourmet ice cream near Playa Victoria. If you're closer to the Cathedral, Narigoni is perfect for gelato, and two doors down, Casa Hidalgo has pastries worth waiting in line for. They're especially known for their milhojas (layered puff pastry with cream), rich chocolate napolitanas, and seasonal specialties like torrijas during Easter. The smell alone will draw you in!
PLAYA TIME: LA CALETA, VICTORIA & CORTADURA
La Caleta is a small, scenic beach that is great for people-watching. Playa Victoria is ideal for a full beach day—rent a sunbed for €5 and grab lunch from a nearby beach bar. For something more secluded, head to Playa de la Cortadura on the edge of town. It's quieter, surrounded by sand dunes, and feels like a secret spot.
One of the highlights of our time in Cádiz was picking up bread, jamón, cheese, and a bottle of wine from the grocery store and heading to the beach for a sunset picnic. Sitting on the sand with the ocean before us, sharing simple food as the sky changed colors, was a quiet, perfect way to end the day.
OTHER CÁDIZ HIDDEN GEMS & NEARBY DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS
El Callejón del Duende: A tiny alley in the old town that's extra magical at twilight.
Plaza de San Antonio: Grab a tinto de verano and people-watch. Check out the nearby San Antonio Church and the rose-gold staircase in the post office.
Museo de Cádiz: Archaeology, art, and even puppets—this place has layers.
Vejer de la Frontera: A stunning whitewashed hill town about 45 minutes away.
Los Caños de Meca & Playa de los Castillejos: Great for a day trip if you want unspoiled beaches and a bohemian vibe.
RESTAURANT HIGHLIGHTS
El Faro de Cádiz: Iconic, no-frills seafood institution—try the grilled prawns, seafood meatballs, and tortillitas de camarones.
Casa Rafael Vinos y Tapas: A cozy, well-loved spot offering a solid mix of traditional and modern tapas. The wine list leans heavily local, and the staff are friendly and happy to recommend pairings.
Taberna Casa Manteca: An essential stop for classic Cádiz flavors—don't miss the chicharrones or the paper-thin slices of mojama (cured tuna). Expect crowds and a lot of personality.
Restaurante Albalá (in Jerez): Worth the short trip—go for the lobster salad, tuna tartare, and pork-octopus meatballs.
El Veedor & Taperia de Columela: Both double as tapas bars and gourmet shops—perfect for ordering conservas with tortilla española.
Almanaque & Contraseña: Great for a creative take on traditional dishes and bold flavor combos.
Cádiz might not make every Spain itinerary, but it should! With its layered history, incredible local tapas scene, and some of the best coastal views in the country, I promise you won't regret visiting.
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