Cádiz is Europe’s oldest city and a standout destination in Andalucía, where ancient history, vibrant culture, fresh seafood, and ocean views come together on Spain’s Atlantic coast.
Despite its rich past and coastal charm, it’s often overlooked by travelers heading to Seville or Granada. But Cádiz offers something unique—walkable streets packed with character, golden beaches, and a deep connection to Spain’s maritime history.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
The Province of Cádiz is divided into 6 comarcas (regions) that include a total of 44 municipalities, with the famous city of Cádiz as its capital. Other important cities in the province include Jerez de la Frontera and Algeciras.
Population of Cádiz
The population of Cádiz Province is approximately 1,255,164 inhabitants. Of these, around 600,000 live in the metropolitan area of the Bay of Cádiz, which includes Cádiz city and nearby towns like Chiclana, El Puerto de Santa María, Puerto Real, and San Fernando. This makes Cádiz one of the most densely populated areas within Andalusia.
The province spans an area of 7,435.85 km², with a population density of 158.80 inhabitants per km². Cádiz shares borders to the north with the provinces of Seville and Huelva, to the east with Málaga, to the southwest with the Atlantic Ocean, to the southeast with the Mediterranean Sea, and to the south with the Strait of Gibraltar and the British territory of Gibraltar.
Coasts and mountains
The municipalities of Cádiz can be broadly divided based on their location within the province, highlighting a variety of coastal towns known for their pristine beaches—many of which remain untouched—and inland municipalities renowned for their cultural richness and vast green landscapes.
Among the coastal towns, notable ones include Conil de la Frontera, Vejer de la Frontera with its well-known hamlet of El Palmar, Barbate with Zahara de los Atunes, and Tarifa with the beach area of Bolonia.
Caleta beach in the city of Cádiz.
For the inland towns, those bordering the Los Alcornocales Natural Park stand out. Alcalá de los Gazules, known as the western gateway to the park, and Jimena de la Frontera, known as the eastern gateway, are especially notable.
Further north in the province are the famous white towns (pueblos blancos), named for their whitewashed houses. Here, within the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, we find remarkable villages like El Bosque, Zahara de la Sierra, Villaluenga del Rosario and Grazalema itself.
Grazalema, one of the most famous and beautiful villages in the province of Cádiz.
From A to Z: The cities, towns and villages of Cádiz
Here are all the cities, towns and villages in the province of Cádiz (in alphabetical order.) Just click the links to find out more in depth information about each place.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
The city of Cádiz is reasonably compact. From arriving and discovering the Puerta de Tierra, the Torre Tavira and the Cathedral you will also find that most of the famous and popular monuments and museums are easily within reach. So, here’s Cádiz – A brief tour of the city.
Parking
Parking in Cádiz can be a bit complicated sometimes so check out our dedicated article to help you find a place to park. Or, just head straight to Parkimeter! 🙂
Listen to the podcast about Cádiz – A brief tour of the city
Todays podcast from Mike and Sarah introduces Cádiz, an ancient city in southwestern Spain, highlighting its historical significance as a former trading post and major port.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Flamenco is a unique and vibrant musical genre with a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the culture and traditions of Andalucia. Its precise origins are a topic of much debate and speculation among experts, but it is generally accepted that the style developed over many centuries. It incorporates influences from various cultures, including Iberian, Arabic, Sephardic, and Gitano. So, Where to see flamenco shows in Cádiz?
Listen to the podcast about where to see flamenco in Cádiz
Cadiz is considered one of the birthplaces of Flamenco music, and the city has played an important role in the development and evolution of this musical style over the centuries.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Cádiz, with its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, is a favorite stop for cruise ships. Whether you’re planning your first visit or are a seasoned traveler, there are always questions about making the most of your time in this beautiful Spanish city. In this guide, we’ve compiled and answered the top 10 questions from cruise ship visitors to help you navigate Cádiz with ease and confidence. From transportation tips to must-see landmarks, our answers will ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience in this enchanting port city.
Listen to the podcast about visiting Cádiz from a cruise ship
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
