3 Day Itinerary for Cádiz
Cádiz is small, so three days feels just right. You can walk almost everywhere. Better still, history, beaches and great food sit side by side. This itinerary starts with the old town’s big sights. Next, it adds museums, castles and the sea. Finally, it finishes with an easy day trip. Want more ideas first? Browse our Cádiz guide and our things to do in Cádiz.
Day 1: Old Town Highlights
Start your morning at the Cádiz Cathedral. Builders began it in 1722 and finished in 1838, so you see baroque and neoclassical styles together. Admire the golden dome, then head down to the crypt, where composer Manuel de Falla rests. Next, climb the Clock Tower for wide views over the rooftops and the sea. Tickets also cover the cathedral museum. Arrive early to beat the coach groups, and book ahead in busy months. Buy tickets in advance. Get directions.
Then walk a few minutes to the Roman Theatre in the El Pópulo district. It dates to the 1st century BC and is one of the oldest in Spain. Workers only uncovered it in 1980. It once held around 10,000 spectators. Entry is free, but opening hours are limited, so check before you go. Afterwards, peek down tiny Callejón del Duende nearby. Get directions.
After that, head up the Torre Tavira. This 45-metre tower became the city’s official watchtower in 1778. Inside, a Camera Obscura projects live images of Cádiz onto a curved screen. Each show holds only 12 people, so reserve a time online. Then climb 126 steps to the rooftop viewpoint. On clear days, the views stretch for miles. Book Torre Tavira tickets. Get directions.
For lunch, wander one street away to the Mercado Central de Abastos. Stalls sell fresh fish, meat and local treats. Grab a bite from a stall or two and soak up the buzz. Get directions.
In the evening, head to the La Viña district for dinner at Taberna Casa Manteca. This loud, bullfighting-themed tavern serves ham on paper and tortillitas de camarones. Squeeze in at the bar and order a few plates. Get directions.
Day 2: Museums, Castles and the Sea
Begin Day 2 at the Museo de Cádiz on Plaza de Mina. It holds Phoenician sarcophagi, Roman finds and paintings by Zurbarán. As a result, you get 3,000 years of local history in one stop. Get directions.
Next, step into the Oratorio de la Santa Cueva. This small underground chapel holds three paintings attributed to Goya. It is quiet, atmospheric and quick to see. Get directions.
Then enjoy a long lunch at El Faro de Cádiz. Locals have loved this seafood restaurant for over 30 years. Its tapas bar at the front is the real highlight. Order a few small plates and take your time. Get directions.
After lunch, stroll to La Caleta beach. It sits between two historic castles and faces the open Atlantic. Kick off your shoes, or simply watch the fishing boats. Get directions.
Next, walk the causeway out to the Castillo de San Sebastián. Builders raised it on a small islet in 1706. The sea views are superb. Film fans may also know it from the James Bond movie Die Another Day. Get directions.
On the opposite side of the beach, find the star-shaped Castillo de Santa Catalina. It hosts art exhibitions throughout the year. Afterwards, relax in the nearby Parque Genovés, the city’s largest public garden. Get directions.
Finish with a treat at Código de Barra. This one-Michelin-star restaurant serves tasting menus that retell Cádiz’s food history. The dining room is small, so book well ahead. Get directions.
Day 3: A Day Trip to El Puerto de Santa María
On your last day, hop on a Cercanías train to El Puerto de Santa María. It is a short ride across the bay. Check Train Schedules & Buy Tickets on Omio. This whitewashed town sits in sherry country, so it suits a slow, tasty day. Fancy more sherry? Read our guide to Andalusian sherry.
Start at the Castillo de San Marcos, a medieval castle in the town centre. Wander its walls and courtyards. Then stroll the old streets and pop into a bar for a glass of fino. Get directions.
For a real splurge, book lunch at Aponiente. Chef Ángel León holds three Michelin stars here and focuses on the sea. Reserve many weeks ahead. Alternatively, choose a simple seafood bar and keep it casual. Get directions.
Back in Cádiz, walk the Paseo Marítimo along Playa de la Victoria. This long, golden beach is the city’s most popular. It makes a lovely, relaxed way to end your trip. Get directions.
Have extra time? Consider Sanlúcar de Barrameda or Vejer de la Frontera for another easy outing.