How to Fall in Love in Cádiz
Cádiz is one of the most ancient cities in the Western world. During its three thousand years, several civilizations have inhabited this little place in the south of Spain and made it a geographically strategic city for European trade. People from Cádiz were also those who signed the first Spanish Constitution in 1812. Little by little, Cádiz became the Spanish capital city of revolutionaries and political thinking. Nowadays, it mixes wonderful beaches, delicious food, culture and a very special lifestyle everybody talks about. Also, it celebrates the Carnival that attracts people from all over the world.
But, what can we do to enjoy our visit to Cádiz? Follow this travel guide to discover the top places to eat, walk and fall in love with one of the hidden treasures of Spain.
All photos are courtesy of Egor Kas.
WHAT TO DO
Watching the sunset at Playa de la Caleta
This is perhaps the most beautiful thing you can do in Cádiz, specially when there is low tide. You can have a coffee in La Quilla while enjoying how the sun hides in the horizon. Also, right over the beach you can visit both Castle of San Sebastián and Castle of Santa Catalina, from where you can have amazing views of the sea. In summer, they put live music in order to see the sunset and it is really beautiful and relaxing.
2. Walking through the neighbourhoods in the historical city centre
Cádiz is famous for its narrow streets and balconies. In just one day, you can get lost in different neighbourhoods like El Pópulo, La Viña or Santa María, as well as visiting the Cathedral and enjoying the main squares (Plaza España, Plaza Las Flores, Plaza San Juan de Dios…). All of them have their own attractions and peculiarities, and it is worthy to walk in these streets in order to understand the city’s lifestyle. Locate the numerous watchtowers that were used to guard the city and visit Torre Tavira, the only one which is open to the public. Also, try to find La Bella Escondida, a watchtower that can only be seen from a very specific point of the city!
3. Enjoying the long beaches and the Seaside Promenade
This city owns a long walk of beaches that goes from the entrance to the city centre. You can relax whether on Playa La Cortadura, the virgin beach of the outskirts, or next to the city itself on Playa de La Victoria and Playa de Santa María del Mar. All of them have beach bars where you can have a drink while sunbathing, such as Charlotte Bar, Woodstock Bar or Marama.
WHERE TO EAT
When you feel like trying amazing food, you can enjoy some of the most fashionable restaurants in town. I highly recommend you to go further the typical Andalusian places, because it is possible to enjoy Cádiz cuisine with a modern taste. However, you will probably need to make a prior reservation!
All photos are courtesy of Egor Kas.
Sopranis
This is one of the best rated places in Cadiz. Waiters are great and they offer a nice wine menu, as well as avant-garde exquisite food. It is a very recommended restaurant to go with your partner, as it has a very intimate atmosphere to enjoy and a perfect location in the city centre. With either tapas or a tasting menu, the experience is worthy and you will discover a restaurant you will never forget.
2. Ultramar&nos
The novelty in the city centre is this peculiar place that revolutionized the gastronomic sector in Cádiz. Even celebrities like Jon Hamm (Mad Men) tried it, and in a little time it reached the first positions in all restaurant rankings. In the bar, you can have several types of wine and beer, including craft beer. Then, you can enjoy modern tapas based on local products and recipes.
3. Arsenio Manila
The business empire of its owner occupies all the city with restaurants, pubs and beach bars, but the experience is always amazing. In this establishment, with a hipster decoration and a really nice service, you can have a great time with your family, friends or partner while discovering typical food and cosmopolitan flavours at the same time, all of it right next to the sea. Moreover, the prices are not expensive despite offering exquisite food. Try here the best patatas bravas in town.
And, of course, do not forget to be seduced by the city specialties such as tortillitas de camarones and fried fish! Born in Cádiz!
HOW TO FLIRT
Of course, I could not forget about this. People from this city are special. We are proud of what they are and we love flirting. Actually, according to studies, Andalusians are the best lovers in Spain, so you should not miss that. But first of all, you must take into account that Andalusians are touchy, friendly and funny themselves, so even though it is easy to assume that they will want something with you, don’t do it yet! There are further ways to conquer us and here are just some basic tips to start:
All photos are courtesy of Egor Kas.
Don’t be malaje
“Malaje” is a very Andalusian word that refers to those who are not very nice and do not laugh at jokes, and we do not like that. We love to laugh at ourselves, so do not be surprised if your girl/guy starts annoying you smoothly. Besides, you will soon see that we are very direct: we say A LOT of bad words and we love to compliment people. Don’t be scared! Sense of humour and openness is key.
2. Be ready for double sense
One of the main characteristics of Andalusians is that we use irony frequently. We can say something and mean exactly the opposite or 2472894 things more. Pay attention, we might be sending you hints!
3. Eat, dance and tell them how beautiful their city is.
If we like you, we will want to show you everything about the city: the food, the beach, the music… Just embrace Andalusian passion for their culture. We love to hear that our city is the best in the world!
4. Learn new words!
Andalusian vocabulary is broad and funny. We will be glad to teach you everything that you need to know about it. But if you want to do some homework in advance, here there is a fast guide of key words almost ALL of us use, specially in Cádiz.
And to finish, you have almost all this information as an infographic! (that I personally made for Graphic Design). Spain has a lot to offer, and Cádiz is a great option if you want to do something different. Come and enjoy the south!
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