A Hidden Gem

Cádiz is one of our favourite places we have been to. The city welcomed us with open arms, offering a mix of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes that made our stay unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, the city’s charm was palpable. We checked into our hotel in the heart of the Old Town, a perfect base for our explorations. The warm Andalusian sun and the salty sea breeze set the tone for what would be a magical few days.

We started with a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, immediately captivated by its narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Plaza de San Juan de Dios, bustling with life, was our first stop. We sat at a café, enjoying cold cervezas while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The Cádiz Cathedral, with its stunning golden dome, was a highlight of the day. Climbing to the top of the tower was a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean were absolutely worth it.

Torre Tavira, the city’s highest point, where we experienced a live panoramic view of Cádiz through a camera obscura. It was fascinating to see the city’s layout from this unique perspective. Our journey through history continued as we stumbled upon the Roman Theatre, a hidden gem nestled among modern buildings. This ancient site, remarkably well-preserved, gave us a glimpse into Cádiz’s past as we imagined the grand performances that once took place there. The Museo de Cádiz further enriched our understanding of the city’s history, with its extensive collection of artifacts from various periods, including the Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish eras.

After all of our exploration, we decided to spend some time enjoying Cádiz’s famous coastline. La Caleta beach was our chosen spot, a small but picturesque beach surrounded by history. We started the day with a refreshing swim in the calm waters. The beach, though popular, wasn’t too crowded, allowing us to relax and soak up the sun. Afterward, we wandered over to Castillo de Santa Catalina, a fortress that offers stunning views of the sea. The small art exhibitions inside the castle were a pleasant surprise, adding a cultural touch to our beach day. As the day drew to a close, we stayed on the beach to watch the sunset. The sky transformed into a canvas of pinks and oranges, casting a magical glow over the old fortresses, making it one of the most memorable sunsets we’ve ever witnessed.

Food is an essential part of any trip, and Cádiz did not disappoint. We dedicated our fourth day to exploring the local culinary scene, starting with a visit to the Mercado Central. The market was alive with activity, and we couldn’t resist sampling the local specialties, including tortillas de camarones and fresh oysters. For lunch, we headed to Restaurante El Faro, a renowned establishment where we indulged in atún rojo and pescado a la sal. The dishes were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making for a truly memorable meal. In the evening, we embarked on a tapas crawl through the Old Town. Each bar offered something different, from jamón ibérico to gambas al ajillo. The lively atmosphere, combined with the friendliness of the locals, made the experience even more enjoyable.

On our last morning in Cádiz, we took a final stroll through the city, revisiting some of our favorite spots. We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast of churros con chocolate in the La Viña neighborhood, savoring the laid-back atmosphere. A walk along the Paseo Marítimo allowed us to take in the stunning ocean views one last time. Before heading to the airport, we made sure to pick up a few souvenirs, including a bottle of local sherry and some handcrafted ceramics, as mementos of our time in this beautiful city.

Cádiz is a place that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left. From its ancient streets and historic landmarks to its delicious food and stunning beaches, every moment spent here was special. We left Cádiz with a deep appreciation for its rich culture and history, and a longing to return one day.