Allegedly Western Europe’s oldest city, Cadiz can be found on the edge of south-western Spain. This almost-island is surrounded by sea on all sides and only connects to the mainland by a road running parallel to a 4km golden stretch of sandy beach. With a whole city of culture and a handful of beaches to choose from, it’s the ideal blend of culture dosage and beach break.
Beaches
Situated on the stretch of shoreline known as Costa de la Luz – or “coast of light” – bright blue skies and seas can be expected throughout most of the year. Playa de La Caleta may be Cadiz’s smallest beach, but is likely the most popular with locals and tourists alike. What’s more, it served as a setting for the 2002 Bond Film Die Another Day, so you can lounge on the beach 007-style. Another small but secluded spot is Playa de Santa Maria del Mar in the north, while Playa de la Cortadua stretches close to 4,000m to the south of the city.
Food & Drink
Fried fish joints down cobbled streets, vibrant food markets and taverns serving tapas offer a full gastronomic journey of what this region has to offer. Expect the delicacies of Chicharrones de Cadiz (otherwise known as slow-roasted pork belly), shrimp fritters, local cheeses and an abundance of wonderfully prepared seafood. When it comes to drink, locally produced wine and sherry triumph in Cadiz. Sourced in the local province, the Manzanilla sherry is a must-try whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply partial to a sip or two.
Culture
Rich local culture is discoverable throughout this small city. Moorish influence blends with Roman history and is evident in the city’s architecture, art and cuisine. Here, southern Spain’s signature laidback style is interspersed with wild Flamenco, sweeping bay views and the golden-topped dome of Cadiz cathedral. There are also plenty of castle ruins to be marvelled at throughout. Meanwhile, during two weeks of Cadiz Carnival in February, the city transforms into a colourful celebration of music and humour.
Nightlife
Seeing as the city is encircled by the sea, it’s no surprise that most of Cadiz’s nightlife congregates on its beaches. Particularly during the summer season, barbeques and beach bars line the shores, providing the ideal spot for a chilled out drink along with a spectacular sunset to round off the day. Meanwhile, the bustling atmosphere of the old town plays host to plenty of bars and clubs, playing eclectic music and open until the early hours.
Important Information
Flight Time: 3 hoursTime Difference: +1hrCurrency: EuroOfficial Language: Spanish
