A Stroll Through Cádiz, Spain

Founded over 3,000 years ago, Cádiz claims to be the oldest city in Western Europe, and honestly, it wears that history well. I visited in July 2025, docking here on a summer cruise, and was glad I skipped the excursions. Cádiz is one of those ports that rewards slow wandering. It’s compact, flat, and incredibly photogenic.

I started my day tracing the waterfront promenade, walking along the sea wall with waves on one side and fortified walls on the other. There are old cannons posted like sentinels, quiet reminders of the city’s past as a strategic military port. But that history is softened by the lush greenery and blooming flowers that now line the way.

I veered off into one of the first parks I spotted, Parque Genovés. If you like your gardens with a bit of drama, this one’s got you. Towering palms, flower-draped pergolas, and winding dirt trails create a calm oasis right in the middle of the city. Bright bougainvillea tangled with hibiscus and trumpet vine, while tiled fountains and statues popped up around every corner. It was peaceful, colorful, and surprisingly cool in the shade.

From there, I wandered inland toward the heart of the city. Cádiz isn’t short on architectural gems, and just picking a direction will lead you to something interesting. I made my way to the Catedral de Cádiz, a massive baroque and neoclassical beauty you can spot from nearly anywhere in town. A quick peek over the sea wall nearby revealed the famous “Cat Houses,” little shelters built for the city’s feline residents. Yes, really.

As I meandered through town, I stumbled into Plaza de San Juan de Dios. It’s a lively spot with City Hall on one end and cafés and restaurants lining the sides. Perfect place to grab a cold drink or just people-watch under the shade of the palm trees. I didn’t set out with a plan, but I ended up seeing a whole lot more than I expected, and it all felt effortless.