When a city has been around for over 3,000 years – it must be doing something right!  Cadiz is the oldest city on the Iberian Peninsula and probably the oldest in Europe, but it’s ancient and more recent history sit comfortably next to its current popularity as a wonderful day trip destination.

Situated on a peninsula, almost  completely surrounded by sea, beautiful Cadiz is one of the most atmospheric and photographed cities in South West Andalucia. Founded in 1100 BC by the Phoenicians, who called the city Gadir, it became known as Gades under the Romans and Qadis under the Moors.

Cadiz wasn’t destined to be the relaxed small Spanish port you might expect,instead it has played a part in some of the most vivid and memorable moments of Spanish history.  From the early 16th century all the Spanish boats sailing off in search of fame and fortune in the New World sailed from Cadiz and much of that fortune came back to Cadiz in the shape of stunning palacios for the wealthy, large plazas and beautiful churches.  Christopher Columbus sailed from here, bringing back the wonderful Ficus trees that now grace the Parque Genovés.

Pirates attacked Cadiz several times during the 16th century, setting much of the old town ablaze in 1569.  Famously in 1587 it was here that Sir Frances Drake “Singed the King of Spain’s Beard” by setting fire to the newly built Spanish Armada. In 1812 Cadiz became the first seat of a newly formed Spanish parliament and the true home of Spanish democracy, when the first Constitution was    declared here, making Cadiz a centre for enlightened, liberal thinkers, poets and painters.  The great Spanish composer Manuel de Falla was born here in 1876 and his music is still celebrated here today.

That reputation carried on into the 20th century, when even under Franco, Cadiz was considered one of the most  free-thinking, relaxed and open minded cities in Spain.  The famous Carnaval of Cadiz   celebrates this, when thousands of “Gaditanos” and visitors get dressed in fancy costumes and roam the streets enjoying the  fantastic Carnaval floats and the Chirigotas (amateur choirs who write and perform satirical songs about local   politicians and celebrities).  The Carnaval is held during Lent and in 2011 will be during the last week of February and first week of March.

With its maze of narrow streets that take you into a series of gracious squares, its monuments and ruins from so many ages of Spain and it’s beautiful and clean blue flag city beaches, Cadiz is a wonderful day trip destination.

Enjoy a fantastic day exploring Cadiz with Camino Holidays.  For just 100 euros per person our day trips include all transport (to and from your home area), guided tours, entrance tickets and all meals.