History, Local Culture & Wine Tasting in Càdiz, Cádiz

Cádiz, a city on Spain's Atlantic coast, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe, founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BCE. But throughout history, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, and more all settled in this region thanks to its unique shape and connection to the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. With the help of an expert guide, you'll learn all about the city's unique and long history, stopping to view monuments, churches, viewpoints, parks, markets, and more. Then, end your walk at a beloved tavern for wine tasting.

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Cádiz was founded by the Phoenicians over 3,000 years ago and is now a lively port town. With a guide leading the way, you'll explore the city's bustling pedestrian streets, stopping to view historical monuments, and enjoying the scenic waterfront. As you walk, your guide will share all the historical details and colorful architecture that tell Cádiz's unique story.

During the walk, there are several places to stop and admire. Plaza de San Juan de Dios, for example, is the city's main square with its Town Hall. This plaza was initially established in the 16th century, though you'll also find beautiful baroque architecture complementing the historic brick arches. The Church of San Juan De Dios is next to the Town Hall and is a truly gorgeous building. Then, step back in time by visiting the city's most famous Roman monument, Teatro Romano.

Of course, you can't visit Cádiz without stopping at its cathedral, a unique structure that features multiple types of architecture. Though its construction began in the early 18th century, it took over 100 years to complete, so you'll find baroque architecture stacked above a Neoclassical base. The locals refer to the cathedral as Cathedral Nuevo, as it's newer than the city's original cathedral, La Catedral Vieja de Cádiz, or Iglesia de Santa Cruz. Its structure is from the 13th century, and the church served as the city's diocese until the new cathedral was finished. 

Other places in the Old Town include the neoclassical chapels at Oratorio de la Santa Cueva and the 18th-century Baroque Iglesia del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri. The Plaza de las Flores is home to a buzzy flower market at the main post office that opened in 1930. And the Monument to the Constitution of 1812 at Plaza de España commemorates the signing of Spain's constitution in Cádiz.

Next, you'll visit the city's renowned Mercado Central de Abastos. Dating back to 1838, this is Spain's oldest indoor municipal market, featuring more than 150 stalls comprising everything from restaurants and tapas bars to fresh produce vendors, fishmongers, butchers, and more. With the help of your guide, you'll chat with friendly vendors and learn about the region's gastronomy.

The perfect way your walk through Càdiz is at a traditional tavern to enjoy a glass of wine before lunch, as the locals do. But you'll turn this tradition into an opportunity to taste a few different regional varieties.