Let me start this guide by saying that Cadiz makes an easy and awesome day trip from Seville. Easily one of the best we’ve taken over the years. It’s got that perfect mix of coastal charm, history, and the laid-back setting is lovely.
One thing I wish we knew when we first visited was how to plan a day trip from Seville to Cadiz. And this is exactly why I wrote this ultimate guide.
This place claims to be one of Europe’s oldest cities, which is pretty wild to think about. It’s about an hour and a half to two hours from Seville, depending on how you get there.
And in just one day, you can see the real Andalusia, with interesting history and culture. Read until the end before you go!
How to Prepare for a Day Trip from Seville to Cadiz
There are a few things to think about when planning a trip from Seville to Cadiz…Getting there, the best time to visit, what to do, etc.
Before going through the actual itinerary in the next section, let me answer some questions that you’ll find helpful. Especially if that’s your first time in Cadiz from Seville.
How to Get from Seville to Cadiz?
Well, there are a few options to visit Cadiz from Seville. The train from Sevilla Santa Justa station is the easiest way to go. It takes around 90 minutes to two hours, and tickets usually cost 15–20 euros, depending on the schedule.
Buses are another option, they’re usually cheaper but take a little longer. To be fair, they’re cheap but that isn’t our preference, as they’re not that convenient.
If you’re up for a road trip, renting a car gives you more flexibility, especially if you want to explore other coastal towns or Andalucian villages on the way.
That said, the train is probably the best choice. It’s quick, convenient, and you’ll get right in Cadiz, so you can start exploring as soon as you get there.
Lastly, another good option is to join a guided tour from Seville. Yes, it’s a little more expensive but you’ll learn a lot. And there’s no driving or going to the station involved, as pick-up is included. Definitely the most convenient option.
What’s the best time to visit Cadiz?
Cadiz has mild weather conditions the whole year, which is really nice. But, late spring and early fall are the sweet spots. You’ll get warm temperatures without the peak summer crowds.
If you’re up for a party, Cadiz Carnival in February or March is one of Spain’s biggest. It’s packed with music, traditional costumes everywhere, and cool parades. It’s crowded though, so please book your hotel asap.
Summer is perfect if you’re in southern Spain for beaches, but expect it to get hot by midday.
In short: No matter when you go, Cadiz almost always delivers good weather and good vibes.
Is one day enough to see Cadiz?
Let’s be honest: You can’t see everything in a day, but you can see a lot. You can discover the Old Town, check out the cathedral, eat some fresh seafood, and still have time to relax by the beach.
Cadiz is way smaller than Seville, so you can explore most of it on foot.
You can take it slowly and see the beach (or explore cool neighborhoods like La Viña) staying overnight. It’s a good idea if you ask me.
You can also catch the sunset by the coast and even see a Flamenco show if you haven’t done that in Granada.
Things to Do in Cadiz on a Day Trip
Cadiz is all about strolling through narrow streets, soaking up ocean views, and eating ridiculously good seafood. A solid day in town could look something like this:
Morning: Explore the Old Town & Cathedral
Kick off your day in Plaza de San Juan de Dios, the lively square lined with cafés, City Hall, and plenty of morning energy. It’s only a few minutes from the train station, so it’s easy to get around if you got there with the RENFE train.
Grab a quick coffee and a sweet pastry before heading to Cadiz Cathedral. Again, a few minutes walk away.
Cadiz Cathedral, also called the “Cathedral of the Americas,” was built between 1722 and 1838. It has Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical touches. It was funded by the Spain’s golden age, when the country traded with the Americas (you guessed it, that’s where the second name comes from).
The cathedral’s golden dome is the most notable feature. Inside, you’ll find relics, grand altars, and historic crypts.
I really love the facade (yes, I’m sure you will too), but climbing Torre del Reloj is where the real magic happens. And I’m not exaggerating.
You get 360-degree views of the city’s rooftops and the Atlantic stretching out in every direction.
After that, stop by Mercado Central de Abastos for a mid-morning snack. This market is full of fresh seafood, jamón, and local fruit. It’s buzzing with energy in the mornings and you can buy snacks, have a full meal, or buy some packed food to take back home (or to Seville).
Late Morning: Walk Along the Waterfront
Next? Head toward La Caleta Beach. This is a small but lovely stretch of sand framed by two old forts. Castillo de Santa Catalina on one side and Castillo de San Sebastián on the other.
It’s not a huge beach, but it’s one of the most picturesque spots in Cadiz for sure. So please don’t skip it.
You can see fishing boats bobbing in the water and golden-hued buildings glowing under the sun. The vibe? Chill, local, and never too crowded, especially in the morning. It’s mostly fishermen and a few people enjoying the fresh sea air.
Start moving towards the castle slowly – You’ll come back in the afternoon for sunset anyway (if you spend the night here, which I suggest, coming from Seville to Cadiz).
I recommend Castillo de Santa Catalina, a 16th-century fortress built after the Anglo-Dutch raid on Cadiz in 1596, when English forces led by the Earl of Essex sacked the city.
The attack exposed Cadiz’s weak defenses, and this eventually led to the construction of Castillo de Santa Catalina.
If you’re up for more exploring, follow the long causeway that stretches out into the sea toward Castillo de San Sebastián.
It’s an iconic landmark of Cadiz, though the castle itself isn’t always open to the public. The walk, however, is worth it for the views.
Lunch: Try the Local Food
Cadiz is all about seafood. Yes, I don’t even need to say it, you probably guessed by yourself.
Lunchtime is the perfect excuse to try some of the local dishes. There are a few options, classic fried seafood, rich stews, or something simple with a glass of sherry.
Make sure to try pescaito frito. It’s a crispy mix of small fried fish like anchovies, cuttlefish, and baby squid, usually served in a paper cone.
Another local specialty is tortillitas de camarones. A ultra-thin shrimp fritters made with chickpea flour and fresh shrimp. Light, crispy, and ridiculously good.
If you want something more filling, atún encebollado (tuna stewed with caramelized onions) or cazón en adobo (marinated fried dogfish) are solid choices.
And if you’re up for a bit of spice, try papas aliñás, a simple but flavorful potato salad dressed with olive oil, vinegar, and tuna.
For a great sit-down spot away from the market, check out Taberna Casa Manteca. This is a legendary old-school tapas bar in La Viña. It has a rustic, bullfighting-era vibe with hams hanging from the ceiling and walls covered in old photos.
Can you even go wrong with a place like this on your itinerary? I don’t think so. Oh, and please do yourself a favor and try salmorejo!
Afternoon: See the Sunset from Castle of San Sebastian
After lunch, take a slow walk over to Parque Genovés. It’s the main public park in Cadiz and it’s located near the western edge of the Old Town.
It’s filled with sculpted gardens, exotic plants, and towering trees… The perfect combination for a slow, relaxed afternoon.
The park also has a small man-made waterfall, which makes it a fun stop even if you’re just passing through. Sure, it’s not one of the most popular attractions in Cadiz, but it’s still worth seeing, and that’s the truth.
If history is more your thing, stop by Teatro Romano too – one of the oldest Roman theaters in Spain. Despite being centuries old (it dates back to the 1st century BC), it wasn’t discovered until 1980.
It’s a little hidden behind modern buildings, but stepping inside gives you a glimpse of how grand Roman Cadiz once was.
Apart from that, you can spend some time around La Viña, the heart of old Cadiz. It gives you a taste of the local life in the city, and it was home to fishermen and flamenco singers back in the days.
If you plan on spending the night here, this is a great and quiet area. Don’t skip a drink at Taberna El Tío de la Tiza. It’s a humble spot known for great seafood and cold beer. With thousands of reviews online, you can’t really go wrong, can you?
As the day winds down, head to Playa de la Victoria or the Castillo de San Sebastian for sunset. Those are the best places to see the sunset in Cadiz, together with the seafront, El Malecón.
Evening: Catch a Live Flamenco Show
Just like other parts of Andalucia, Cadiz has deep flamenco roots. And if you’re staying for the night, you have to catch a live show. That shouldn’t even be an option, if you ask me.
Yes, I know that Seville might be the bigger flamenco hotspot. That being said, Cadiz has a raw, more unpolished style that’s just as powerful.
One of the best places for authentic flamenco is La Cava, a small but intimate venue in the Old Town.
It’s a proper tablao, meaning the performances are up close and you’ll love the electric energy…No big touristy gimmicks here.
Another great option is Peña Flamenca La Perla, a local flamenco club where Cadiz’s best musicians and dancers perform – especially on weekends.
To end up the day trip from Seville to Cadiz, (and if you’re still hungry), grab a late-night bite at El Faro de Cádiz, a classic restaurant known for traditional Andalusian dishes with a modern touch.
FAQ About Cadiz
Spent the day exploring Cadiz and want to know the best way back to Seville? Or maybe you’re thinking about adding more stops to your trip? Here’s more you need to know.
When is the Last Train or Bus Back to Seville?
The last train from Cadiz to Seville usually leaves in the late evening, typically around 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. Keep in mind though that train schedules can change, especially on weekends and holidays.
Check the latest times online or at the station the day before your trip.
Buses also run pretty late, but final departure times vary depending on the day. To avoid any last-minute stress, arrive at the station early, especially during peak travel seasons.
I already mentioned it in this guide, but if you want to make the most of your time in Cadiz from Seville, getting a guided tour is the way to go.
Can you Visit Cadiz as a Stop on a Bigger Trip?
Oh yes, definitely. Cadiz fits perfectly into a multi-city trip around southern Spain, especially if you’re traveling on the Costa de la Luz.
If you have extra days, consider adding:
- Jerez de la Frontera: Located only 30 minutes away by train. The town is famous for sherry wine, equestrian shows, and one of the most beautiful Alcázars in Andalusia.
- Tarifa: About 1.5 to 2 hours away. Tarifa is the best place to go windsurfing in Spain, and it happens to be the closest point to Morocco. You can even catch a ferry to Tangier!
- Vejer de la Frontera: One of Andalusia’s famous “pueblos blancos” (white villages), sitting on a hilltop with stunning views and a slower, more traditional vibe.
What to Pack for a Day Trip to Cadiz?
Well, a day in Cadiz from Seville means a lot of walking, strong sun, and plenty of time outdoors. Needless to say, packing wisely is really important. Here’s what you’ll want to bring:
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot and possibly exploring beachfront paths, so ditch the fancy footwear for the day.
- Sunscreen & a hat: The sun in Cadiz can be strong, especially in summer. A light shawl or scarf can also help if you want extra sun protection.
- A refillable water bottle: You’ll want to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months. You can buy plastic bottles around the city, alternatively.
- Cash (Euros): While most places accept cards, it’s handy to have small bills and coins for markets, tapas bars, or small entry fees.
- A camera or fully charged phone: Cadiz is packed with photo spots, from ocean views to historic plazas, so make sure you have enough battery for the day.
Conclusion
Cadiz isn’t one of those places where you rush from landmark to landmark. Instead, it’s one of these cities you just soak in. There are plenty of them in Andalucia, but I don’t know…Cadiz has that je ne sais quoi.
Even if you’ve only got a day, you’ll feel it. That slow, easygoing rhythm, the kind that makes you wanna stick around a little longer. And honestly? If you can, you totally should stay for the night.
So take your time. Wander without a plan. Order another round of tapas. Get lost in the tiny streets. That’s how you do Cadiz right. Thanks for reading until the end!
