Cadiz, three sides on the Atlantic
The message from the Captain came the evening before, while departing Madeira: a weather system in the southwestern Mediterranean forced the ship to set course for Cadiz, rather than Malaga.
Perhaps because of its out-of-the-way location, Cadiz is a hidden gem that not everyone seems to know and visit, so we were happy with the change. Its historic old town and its many unique surrounding villages, make Cadiz a perfect destination for exploration. Gorgeous beaches, amazing local cuisine and an accessible city that is more than 3,000 years old, dating back to the Phoenician merchants from the Levant.
Located on Spain’s southwestern Atlantic coast, due west of Malaga in the Mediterranean, Cadiz played a significant role in Spain’s colonial history, serving as a launching point for expeditions to the New World. The city itself is a coastal gem—rich in history, lined with golden beaches, and exuding a laid-back charm that feels worlds away from the tourist-heavy spots further east.
Situated on a narrow peninsula, Cadiz is almost entirely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking waterfront views and a relaxed, beach-town atmosphere. Its old town, with winding cobblestone streets and lively plazas, reflects its Moorish past, with narrow alleyways designed to provide shade from the intense summer sun.
Often nicknamed “The Silver Teapot” due to its unique shape and position on a narrow spit of land, Cadiz also bears a striking resemblance to the Cuban capital Havana, thanks to its architecture, grand cathedral, and scenic promenade. Unlike many Spanish cities, no building here is allowed to be taller than the cathedral, preserving the city’s distinctive skyline. While Cadiz has both an old town and a newer area, even the modern sections remain free from high-rise developments and sprawling resorts.
The climate is also a major perk. We visited in early March and enjoyed mild, sunny days in the high 60s—perfect for exploring. It’s easy to see why people here take full advantage of outdoor activities year-round. Whether you’re into cycling, surfing, or simply strolling along the seaside, the weather makes it effortless to stay active.
Despite its small size (population about 111,000), Cadiz is full of life and has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and Visigoths, each leaving their mark on the city’s culture and architecture. Narrow streets open 
up to 
lively plazas where locals gather at all hours.
Cadiz isn’t known for international diversity. Its food scene is almost entirely Spanish, and much of its cultural life revolves around local traditions—flamenco, festivals, and historic heritage. While the city lacks major museums, theaters, and entertainment venues, nearby Jerez and Seville offer a wider variety of cultural experiences, including ballet, opera, and concerts.
The proximity to Seville, just an hour and twenty minutes by car makes it a perfect excuse to unveil more of the south of Spain.
Even though the decision to change port was last minute, Princess Cruises showed a quick and professional approach to rapidly changing the tour agendas and many passengers opted for a day trip to the old Spanish Capital of Sevilla, while others preferred a wine tasting trip of the traditional Spanish wines of sherry in nearby Jerez de la Frontera.
Having been in Sevilla before on a trip to Portugal’s Algarve region, we decided to stay and explore Cadiz. The historic old town remains a lived-in, authentic neighborhood and is nothing like a tourist trap. Walking through its winding streets, you’ll find local fruit and vegetable shops, bakeries, butcher shops, and small grocery stores.
In conclusion, exploring Cadiz is an adventure filled with fascinating discoveries and memorable experiences. From its ancient origins as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe to its vibrant cultural scene and breathtaking beaches, Cadiz captivates.
If you are eager to find out more about Cadiz, the Explorial app provides an immersive self-guided tour experience.
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