The Torre Tavira is a watchtower and the tallest point in the city of Cadiz, located 45 meters above sea level. It is situated in the Casa-Palacio de los Marqueses de Recaño (currently the Conservatory of Music of Cadiz) and was built in the Baroque style in the 18th century. It was designated as the official watchtower of the Cadiz port in 1778 because it had the highest elevation, and was named after its first watchman, Lieutenant Frigate D. Antonio Tavira.
Currently, it houses the Camera Obscura, one of the most symbolic tourist attractions in the city of Cadiz, as well as two exhibition halls and a viewpoint, from which the entire historic city center can be admired.
The audio guided tour of Cádiz
The Torre Tavira is included in the Visit Cádiz audio guided tour. Check it out here: https://visitingcadiz.com/immerse-yourself-in-cadizs-rich-history-a-guided-audio-tour/
Or, just scan the QR code on the left with your mobile phone.
Tickets to the Torre Tavira at Get Your Guide
Explore the ancient city of Cadiz on this 2-hour guided walking tour. Visit two of its most impressive monuments: the Cadiz Cathedral and the Tavira Tower while passing historical landmarks along the way.
The Camera Obscura
The Camera Obscura was inaugurated in 1994 and is composed of an optical system that reflects real-time scenes from the outside onto a white screen. The exhibition halls show, through informative panels, the development of the city of Cadiz and its history in general, and the Torre Tavira in particular during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can also admire the original telescope and the watchman’s daily logbook, as well as photographs from the 19th and present centuries that show the changes undergone by the city during the last century.
From the Torre Tavira, in addition to all the rooftops of Cadiz, one can see Puerto Real, El Puerto de Santa Maria, Rota, and Sancti Petri. When the horizon is clear, the African coast can be glimpsed.
Read more about the watchtowers of Cádiz here: https://visitingcadiz.com/the-watchtowers-of-cadiz/
Opening times and practical information
October – April: 10am – 6pm.
May – September: 10am – 8pm.
- Duration of the Visit : 45 min.
- The last entrance in the tower is one hour before closing time.
- Open every day all year except the 25th of December, the 1st and the 6th of January.
- Limited capacity. It is necessary to book in advance and follow safety instructions.
Tickets can be bought online at the official website
- Normal Price: 7,00 Euro
- Reduced price: 5,50 Euro, for People over 65, Students (with student ID), Groups of more than 10, Disabled people.
Official website: https://www.torretavira.com/en/
Torre Tavira in Cádiz – Frequently Asked Questions
The Torre Tavira is the highest historic watchtower in Cádiz, standing 45 metres above sea level. Built in the 18th century in Baroque style, it was officially designated as the port’s main lookout in 1778. Named after its first watchman, Antonio Tavira, it played a vital role during Cádiz’s Golden Age of trade. Today, it’s a cultural landmark featuring a panoramic viewpoint, two exhibition halls, and the popular Camera Obscura.
Located inside the tower, the Camera Obscura is a darkened room equipped with an optical system that projects real-time images of Cádiz onto a white surface. Guided presentations (15–20 minutes) walk visitors through the city’s layout with live commentary. The attraction also includes historical exhibitions with original instruments like the 18th-century telescope and watchman’s logbook, showcasing Cádiz’s evolution.
Visitors are treated to sweeping 360-degree views of Cádiz, including its cathedral, rooftops, and coastline. On clear days, sights extend as far as Puerto Real, Rota, Sancti Petri, and even the African coast. The rooftop terrace offers some of the best photo opportunities in the city, making it a must for photographers and history lovers alike.
Torre Tavira is open daily, except for December 25, January 1, and January 6. From October to April, it operates from 10:00 to 18:00; from May to September, it stays open until 20:00. Visits last about 45 minutes, with the final entry one hour before closing. General admission is €7.00, while reduced tickets (€5.50) are available for seniors, students, people with disabilities, and groups over ten. Booking online is highly recommended due to limited capacity.
Yes, Torre Tavira is featured in various guided tours of Cádiz and the “Visit Cádiz” audio-guided tour, perfect for independent exploration passes by the Torre Tavira. These tours offer a deeper insight into the city’s history, architecture, and maritime legacy.
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!