Free walking tours in Cádiz and what to see

Must-sees

Cádiz is considered one of the oldest cities in Western Europe and is almost surrounded by the sea. Start at the cathedral, with its golden dome, and climb its tower to see the old town. Close by are the Pópulo, the oldest quarter, and the Roman theatre. The Torre Tavira has a camera obscura that shows the city live.

The Viña quarter keeps its working-class feel and leads to La Caleta beach, between the castles of San Sebastián and Santa Catalina. Stroll through the Genovés park and the Alameda by the sea. The oratory of San Felipe Neri recalls the Constitution of 1812. And don’t miss the Central Market in the morning.

Free tours and guided visits

There are free tours every day through the old town, and you tip what you like. They usually pass the cathedral, the Pópulo, the Plaza de San Juan de Dios and the Viña, and explain the city’s Phoenician and Roman history, its role in trade with the Americas and the Cortes of 1812.

Among the paid visits, the guided entry to the cathedral and the camera obscura of the Torre Tavira are worth it. To get out of the city, the most common trips go to Jerez, with a winery visit, and to El Puerto de Santa María, which you reach by catamaran. There are also routes through Vejer and other white villages.

How long to spend

Two days are enough to get to know Cádiz well: one for the cathedral, the Pópulo and the Torre Tavira, and another for the Viña, La Caleta and the walk by the sea. With three or four days you can add Jerez, El Puerto or Vejer and still have time for Victoria beach. February, with the Carnival, transforms the city completely.

Where to stay

The old town is the best base for doing everything on foot. It’s full of bars, taverns and street life. The Viña area is ideal if you want La Caleta on your doorstep. If you prefer a wide beach and more modern buildings, the Victoria beach area, outside the old walls, is a few minutes from the centre by bus.