Sun, flamenco, tapas and historical buildings: this is what awaits you if you choose to fly to Cadiz. Known as one of the most pleasant destinations in Europe, the monumental Cadiz will dazzle you with its rich heritage, as well as its beautiful beaches.
If we trust Luis Mariano's words, it is his beauty who has velvet eyes... And yet, Cadiz also knows how to make soft eyes at its visitors. In the very southwest of Spain, in Andalusia, Cadiz (or Cadiz) takes place on the Costa de la Luz. Capital of the eponymous province, Cadiz has been dazzling its visitors as they pass through its walls for many centuries. If, like Saint-Malo Cadiz, it is a new city on earth, it is above all its old city, located on a peninsula, that attracts the full attention of visitors. Cadiz's historical origins date back to 1100 BC, when the Phoenicians created the colony of Gadir (which means fortress). You will also be surprised by its thick fortifications and by the many monuments that dot its ancient streets. To begin, we recommend a visit to the Port of Cadiz, followed by a stroll through the historic heart of the walled city. The Cathedral (18th century) is a must: brilliantly combining neo-classical and baroque styles, it impresses by the height of its towers topped by white domes. Visible from almost anywhere in the city, it is worth a visit for the beauty of its scenery, but also (and above all!) for its Tour de Poniente: after climbing its many steps, you can discover the church tower, as well as an unforgettable panoramic view of the whole city and the sea from the top of the tower. Take a little more height when you go to the Tavira Tower, located on the highest point of the city: this lookout was once a watchtower used to watch the entrance of boats into the port. From its darkroom, a 360° view awaits you over the whole city... An idea of visit not to be missed!
Once back down, head for the Plaza de San Juan de Dios, the central square of Cadiz: dotted with tall palm trees, it is dominated by the impressive Clock Tower of the Casa Consistorial (the town hall). The place is ideal for strolling, but also for sitting on the terrace and enjoying a good cup of coffee. If it is worth a visit by day or by night, it is splendid when hundreds of small coloured lights illuminate its fountain and contours. Many other places are worth a visit, such as the Santo Domingo church, the Roman theatre, the magnificent Castillo de San Sebastian surrounded by the sea and caressed by the waves, the bastion of the Candelaria, the Santa Catalina Castle, the Mina Square and its wooded park, or the Genivés park renowned for its amazingly shaped trees.
To do too? Take the time to fill up on good things at the Mercado Central de Cadiz, visit the Museum of Cadiz, attend a Flemish evening at the Pena Flamenca la Perla de Cadiz, taste the delights of local cuisine (fried fish, wine, shrimps, clams, stews, chorizo, honey or almond pastries)... And go swimming! Cadiz has many long fine sandy beaches perfect for bubbling under the sun, doing a few fathoms, windsurfing, sailing, paddle or surfing. You can also board towards Tarifa, to observe cetaceans swimming in the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar.