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Cadiz, Spain - Cruise Port Guide
Location
Cádiz emerges seemingly out of nowhere, surrounded by sea and expansive coastlines on both sides. Cruise ships conveniently dock in the town center, allowing easy exploration on foot.
The cruise terminal, located alongside Alfonso XIII pier, has been recently expanded. It features an open-plan hall with check-in desks, a disembarkation area, luggage storage facilities, tourist information desks providing city maps, a free Wi-Fi zone, as well as delicatessen and souvenir shops. Just across the bustling Avenida del Puerto is the bustling Plaza de San Juan de Dios, home to the tourist office and a shopping area.
Watch a video tour of this port.
Monthly climate averages for Cadiz, Spain
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Sights
Cadiz, situated on a peninsula and surrounded by water approximately 300 degrees, is a medieval city with a rich history dating back over 1,000 BC. It stands as one of Europe's oldest cities, characterized by a labyrinth of pedestrian streets, squares, and captivating Moorish architecture.
Spending a day in Cadiz offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in its charm. A stroll along the seafront might even treat you to the sight of dolphins or, occasionally, whales.
For a delightful side trip, consider visiting El Puerto de Santa Maria, easily accessible by a short ferry crossing, bus, or train, showcasing a picturesque seaside town.
Tours, excursions and transportation
The Cadiz City Hop-on Hop-off Tour conveniently stops right outside the cruise terminal, providing an excellent way to explore the city.
A recommended walking route leads from the center towards the Cathedral, visible from afar. Upon reaching the Cathedral, turn right and follow the road along the ocean back to the ship, offering impressive views of robust fortress walls and stunning botanical gardens. Admission to the Cathedral and clock tower is available.
Cadiz's uncrowded beaches boast cool, blue waters, creating a serene environment free from the bustling crowds of resorts. The train station, located off Plaza de Sevilla, offers numerous daily connections to El Puerto de Santa Maria, Jerez de la Frontera, and regional lines to and from Seville.
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Nearby destinations
Victoria Beach, a short bus ride away from the old town (accessible via bus number 7 or number 2), offers a beautiful setting with clean water and various activities such as beach football, volleyball, surfing, and kite flying.
Jerez de la Frontera, located 30 km from Cadiz, gained its name from the local wine "Jerez," pronounced as "sherry" by British troops centuries ago. Renowned for its sherry, flamenco dances, exquisite horses, and talented balladeers, Jerez can be reached by bus or train. The journey times are almost identical, allowing visitors to enjoy the town's cultural richness.
Seville, situated 120 km from Cadiz and 1.50 hours by train, boasts a significant monumental and artistic heritage, featuring various categories of architecture, including palaces, government buildings, religious structures, churches, and convents.
Shopping and food
The Plaza del San Juan Dios, a vast square that is impossible to overlook, serves as a focal point for excellent shopping in Cadiz. Exploring the streets branching out to the right from the square leads you to Cadiz's main shopping districts. Visitors can also stop by the visitor center situated in the square to obtain walking and shopping maps of Cadiz. Additionally, the large central morning market in the vicinity is a must-visit for a unique shopping experience.
Other information
Currency: Euro.
Emergency number: 112. The service is available in Spanish and, in some tourist areas, assistance is also provided in English, French, and German.
Language: Spanish serves as the official language across the entirety of Spain. Nevertheless, other languages coexist alongside Spanish in specific regions of the country.
Opening hours
In general, shops and businesses in Cadiz observe common operating hours, typically from Monday through Saturday, opening from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and again from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
Larger shopping centers and department stores may have extended hours, operating uninterruptedly from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm or 10:00 pm, and some may open on Sundays.
In coastal cities, especially during high season, shops often stay open beyond 10:00 pm. Pharmacies generally operate from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm, with some offering 24-hour service, following a schedule published in newspapers.
Museums typically close on Mondays.
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