The Ancient City By the Sea: A Guide to Charming Cádiz

(66 reviews)

Cádiz audio tour: The Ancient City By the Sea: A Guide to Charming Cádiz

This is a 3.4mi walking tour

It takes an average of 150 mins to complete.

Cádiz

Spain

$14.99

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About the Tour

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Spain, the city of Cádiz is steeped in history and tradition. On this walking tour, you’ll get a taste of the ancient city’s main sights, while you explore its enchanting plazas, streets, and monuments.

You’ll begin the tour at the iconic Puerta de Tierra, the historic gateway that took over 200 years to complete, as part of the medieval city’s expansion in the 1500s. I’ll show you Plaza de Tortugas’ charming Turtle Fountain en route to Plaza de Mina, the cultural heart and soul of Cádiz, where you’ll find the Academy of Fine Arts and the Museum of Cádiz.

You’ll pass Torre Tavira, a tower that offers panoramic views, and make your way to Plaza de las Flores, a beautiful square filled to the brim with tapas and local atmosphere. You’ll experience the grandeur of the Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz, which replaced the city’s old cathedral at a time when trade was blossoming. Your journey concludes in Plaza San Juan de Dios, a relaxing and atmospheric square where history meets gastronomy.

Along the way, you’ll have a chance to:

See Cádiz’s famous ficus trees, believed to be grown from Indian seeds intended for the north of Spain, and which remained in Cádiz after the nuns carrying them passed away in the local hospital
Admire the bold redbrick facade of the city’s theatre, the Gran Teatro Falla, typical of the Neo-Mudéjar (a type of Moorish Revival architecture)
Gaze upon Castillo de Santa Catalina, Cádiz’s ancient fortress, constructed after the Anglo-Dutch sacking of the city in 1596
Walk alongside the picturesque La Caleta beach, used as a filming location for Pierce Brosnan’s Die Another Day
Explore the city’s lavish botanical gardens, the Parque Genovés, with its diverse range of plantlife and pond-powered waterfall

This tour seamlessly blends historical narratives, cultural insights, and the vibrant spirit of Cádiz, and is perfect for either a day-trip or those seeking an introduction to the city during a longer stay. Join me on an unforgettable walk where tales of the city unfold as you navigate its charming streets.

Tour Producer

Clive Muir

8 tours

Hello, my name is Clive Muir and I live in Grazalema, a mountain village near Ronda in Andalucía. For more than 20 years I’ve worked in the Natural Parks of southern Spain, where I specialise in environmentally conscious walking holidays and nature-based tourism. As a long-term resident with deep knowledge of this region, I’ve developed expertise in local history, wildlife, and cultural traditions that I share through my guided tours and online projects.

I am the founder of several English-language travel websites covering Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, and the Caminito del Rey, as well as Wildside Holidays, a platform connecting visitors with activity and wildlife tourism businesses across Spain. My work has been used by travellers, tour operators, and conservation groups looking for reliable, first-hand insights into Andalucía’s landscapes, heritage, and biodiversity.

In addition to guiding, I’m an experienced writer, photographer, and web publisher. My goal is to combine storytelling with practical travel knowledge to help visitors discover both the famous landmarks and the hidden corners of Andalucía. My tours on VoiceMap include Cádiz, Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda, and Grazalema, each designed to provide an engaging mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

I welcome feedback through VoiceMap, my websites, or travel platforms such as TripAdvisor.

Preview Location

Location 28

La Caleta beach

Nestled within the historic city walls of Cadiz lies Caleta Beach, a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.

Stop here for a moment and admire the views!

Stretching approximately 360 meters along the Atlantic coast, La Caleta offers a delightful blend of na... Read More

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Major Landmarks

Ficus de la Mora
Ficus Trees
Arco de la Rosa
Torre Tavira
Puertas de Tierra
Palacio de Congresos
Paseo de Canalejas
Tourist Office of Cádiz
Plaza de las Tortugas
Plaza de España
The 1812 Constitution Monument
Plaza de Mina
Plaza San Antonio
Plaza Fragela
Gran Teatro Falla
Parque Genovés
Mirador del Castillo de Santa Catalina
Playa La Caleta
Caleta beach
Castillo de San Sebastian
The flower market square
Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz
Plaza de la Catedral
Arco de la Rosa
Plaza de San Juan de Dios

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Getting There

Route Overview

VoiceMap tours follow a route from a set starting point. It’s how we give turn-by-turn directions and tell a story greater than the sum of its parts.

Start location
11008 Cádiz, Spain
Total distance

5km
Final location
pl. de San Juan de Dios, 1, 11005 Cádiz, Spain
Distance back to start location

576.11m

Directions to Starting Point

Begin your exploration of Cádiz at the historic Puertas de Tierra.

If you're arriving by car:

Head towards the city center, following signs for Puertas de Tierra. Once you approach the city gates, you'll find parking nearby in The parking "Las Calesas" and parking "Canalejas". (These are the two closest car parks to the start point.)

If you're arriving by Public Transportation:

If arriving by bus, disembark at the central bus station. Use the "get direction" link in the Voicemap app

On foot from your hotel in Cádiz:

Use the "get direction" link in the Voicemap app to arrive at the starting point of the Puertas de Tierra.

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Tips

Places to stop along the way

Noteworthy Stops Along the Way:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Torre Tavira is a very small museum and entrance is limited. Pre booking is essential from the official website If you are in Cádiz for a few days then this is not normally an issue but for just a day trip it may be best to admire the building from the outside and spend more time at other locations.

OPENING TIMES MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE: Mondays are traditionally a day of rest in many tourist towns so some monuments and museums may be closed. 10 am is the usual opening time for monuments and museums. Some museums are only open in the morning and others close at lunch time (2pm to 5 pm)

As you weave through the captivating streets of Cádiz, consider pausing at these delightful spots to enhance your experience:

• Lithographic Workshop Museum:

Immerse yourself in the art of ancient lithography. Discover the fascinating process through preserved stones and machine displays.

• Ibero-American Puppet Museum:

Step into a world of whimsy at the puppet museum, featuring a captivating collection from around the globe.

• Parque Genoves:

Take a leisurely break in this charming park. Enjoy the serene surroundings, vibrant flowers, and perhaps a bench with a view.

• Bars and Restaurants Along the Way:

Cádiz boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Consider stopping at local bars and restaurants to savor authentic Spanish cuisine.

• Historic Monuments and Plazas:

Along your route, encounter historic monuments and picturesque plazas. Take your time to appreciate the architecture and absorb the cultural ambiance.

• The Museum of Cádiz in the Plaza Mina

• The Torre Tavira. (Pre booking needed. See important note above)

• Local Shops and Boutiques:

Explore local shops for unique souvenirs or indulge in a bit of window shopping along the way.

• Plaza San Juan de Dios:

Conclude your tour in this lively plaza. Relax at one of the many establishments, enjoy a refreshing beverage, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Remember, this tour is designed not just for historical exploration but also for the enjoyment of Cádiz's contemporary charm. Feel free to customize your stops based on personal interests and preferences.

Best time of day

Embark on a morning journey through Cádiz's storied past. As the sun bathes the city in a gentle morning glow, discover its historical treasures during the cooler hours. The tour concludes around midday, leaving you with the perfect opportunity to savor a leisurely lunch amidst the charm of Cádiz's eateries.

Opt for the afternoon option to enjoy a more relaxed start to your day. Immerse yourself in the city's enchanting ambiance, basking in the warm afternoon sunlight as you explore its landmarks. The tour gracefully concludes in the early evening, seamlessly transitioning into a delightful dinner experience, where you can relish the lingering magic of Cádiz under the evening sky.

Precautions

Prepare for a Comfortable Exploration:

Embarking on this 5.5 km journey through the charming streets of Cádiz promises a memorable experience. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, here are some important precautions:

• Wear Comfortable Footwear:

The route covers various terrains, so opt for sturdy and comfortable shoes to make your walk pleasant and fatigue-free.

• Stay Hydrated:

Carry a bottle of water to stay refreshed throughout the tour. Hydration is key for an enjoyable exploration.

• Sun Protection Essentials:

Shield yourself from the sun's rays with hats and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen to exposed areas for added protection.

• Weather-Ready Attire:

Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Be prepared for changes in weather conditions.

• Exploration Essentials:

Ensure your mobile device is fully charged. Consider carrying a portable charger to keep your device powered.

• Potential Hazards:

Stay vigilant around traffic and be mindful of your surroundings. If there are any ongoing events or constructions that might affect your route, be aware and plan accordingly.

• Additional Recommendations:

Pack a small umbrella, especially during the rainy season, and consider a light jacket for unexpected weather changes.

Let's make your journey through Cádiz not just an exploration of history but also a comfortable and safe adventure. Enjoy every step!

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App Store Review

“Great app. walk around at your own pace, stop where you want, move on or speed up when you want. Read the script before you go or during the commentary, speed it up or replay it. Repeat the tour whenever you like.”