Cheap Car Rental Cadiz

Famous for its balmy weather and golden beaches, the historic city of Cádiz sits on a finger of land pointing from the southwest coast of Spain.

Almost completely surrounded by water, this strategic spot was first settled by Phoenician sailors over 3000 years ago, making Cádiz one of Europe’s oldest cities.

Behind its fortified walls lies a labyrinth of blind alleys, whitewashed houses and cobbled lanes punctuated by lively plazas, monumental churches and shady gardens.

The best way to untangle this maze is to climb the city’s tallest tower, Torre Tavira, where a camera obscura reveals a skyline dotted with spires, domes and watchtowers. Another good viewpoint is from the belltower of the Catedral Nueva or ‘new cathedral’ dating from 1722.

Inside the cathedral are tombs and ornate religious relics, plus paintings by Spanish masters like Murillo and Zubarán.

The Museum of Cádiz displays treasures from the city’s long history like Phoenician coffins and statues of Roman emperors, plus a collection of fine art. Fans of Spanish painting should also seek out the Santa Cueva chapel with its frescoes by Goya, including his Last Supper. Anyone ready for their next supper should browse the food stalls of Spain’s oldest covered market, Mercado Central. There’s no getting lost in Cádiz: simply follow the sound of the surf. The seaside setting can be best enjoyed by strolling along the miles of sandy beaches, surfing the rolling waves or diving into a plate of fresh seafood. The fun-loving locals (called gaditanos) fill the streets for a few days each year before Easter for one of Spain’s largest and noisiest Carnival celebrations.

Throughout the year the streets ring with the sound of flamenco, so matter when you visit you can settle into the relaxed rhythm of Cádiz, the city surrounded by the sea.