Cadiz Travel Guide

La Playa de la Caleta, Cadiz

Overview: Cadiz, founded in 1100 BC on a peninsula 76 miles (122km) south of Seville as a Phoenician trading post, is the oldest inhabited city in Europe and a popular holiday destination. It had to wait, however, until the 16th century before it came into its own as a launching point for journeys to the newly discovered lands of the Americas. From here Columbus set out on his second voyage. Sir Francis Drake later famously raided the city, as did Napoleon. The city's old town is picturesque and Moorish, with cobbled streets and squares, presided over by the Cathedral with a golden cupola. There is a gallery displaying some of Goya's works, and some lush parks on the headlands which offer panoramic views of the bay. The city is also home to some of Spain's loveliest beaches, including La Playa de la Caleta situated between two castles of the Old City, and La Playa de la Victoria, which is the most visited by holidaymakers for its safe bathing and watersports.

Restaurants: Cadiz has a few top-rated eateries that holidaymakers should visit, including Balandro, La Gorda te de Comer, Cumbres Mayores and La Leyenda.