Filled with tasty tapas pristine beaches, strong character, and friendly locals – Cadiz should not be missed when debating which cities to add to your Spanish hit list.
Cadiz is one of those picture-perfect cities – with its beautiful, historic buildings and pristine beaches. You’ll need to remind yourself to close your mouth and catch the dribble as you marvel at the incredible views.
The city of Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Europe, which sets it apart from other choices and adds to its rich character. Brimming with history and beauty – it’s a pretty magical city.
If you’ve never been to the city before, deciding where to stay in Cadiz can be a daunting task. There are loads of different areas to choose from, each offering something slightly different.
Luckily, you’ve got me to help you! I’ve created this EPIC guide on the best areas of Cadiz – I’ve even categorised each by interest to make things even easier for ya. Whether you just want to eat Tapas all day, laze around on the beach, or walk between historic buildings – I’ve got you covered.
Ok amigo, let’s get into the good stuff and find where is best for you in Cadiz.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Cadiz.
Extraordinario Piso | Best Airbnb in Cadiz
This apartment has to be part of any good Cadiz neighborhood guide. It’s newly renovated and spacious with all the modern amenities and a few extras to make your stay amazing.
The apartment is located around 5 minutes’ walk from the center of town and all its attractions as well as the local Food Market. And it offers simply stunning view of Cadiz from the roof as an extra bonus.
Casa Caracol Cadiz | Best Hostel in Cadiz
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz on a budget, this is the best choice. Often called the best hostel in Cadiz, it’s centrally located and located in the heart of Old Town.
It’s also a short distance from the beach, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. The dorm rooms are modern and cozy and make for a great base while you’re in the city.
El Armador Casa Palacio | Best Hotel in Cadiz
This 3-star hotel in Cadiz offers everything you could want for a short or long trip. It has a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, car hire, and helpful staff.
The rooms are modern and comfortable and include a kitchenette with all the fixings and a private bathroom. It’s also one of the best places in Cadiz to stay if you want to be right in the center of town and close to everything you’ll want to see during your stay.
Old Town
If you want to be close to everything, then Old Town Cadiz is for you. This is one of the best areas in Cadiz to stay in if you want to be surrounded by history.
Santa Maria
If you don’t like spending all your time around the tourists that tend to cluster around Old Town, then Santa Maria is the best neighborhood in Cadiz to stay in for easy proximity to the center and a bit of peace.
La Viña
Just beside Old Town is Barrio de la Viña. This part of the city was once filled with orchards and vineyards before it became the center of the city’s fishing industry.
Playa Victoria
You can’t visit Cadiz and not spend some time at the beach. And the most popular area for that is the neighborhood around Playa Victoria.
San Carlos
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz with kids, San Carlos is a good choice. It’s a local, slightly upscale neighborhood that’s mostly residential, so it offers a quiet, refined entrance into the city.
Cadiz is located on a fairly small island, so the neighborhoods tend to be fairly close together. This is an often-underrated city that’s filled with beautiful neighborhoods and historic parts that have their own shabby chic vibe.
When you’re deciding where to stay, you’ll find lots of cool areas that have their own attractions and intoxicating Spanish atmosphere.
Obviously, the Old Town is one of the best places to stay in Cadiz. It offers the most attractions, stunning historic buildings, and lots of places to eat, drink, and just generally enjoy the city.
But if you don’t like the crowds as much then try Santa Maria. This is a local barrio that offers a more authentic, local experience. It also offers the best options in terms of budget Cadiz accommodation and food!
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for nightlife, then check out La Vina. This area is filled with clubs, restaurants, and tapas bars, so all you have to do is look for your favorite and indulge yourself!
Another good idea to stay in for nightlife and activities is Playa Victoria. This is the city’s urban beach area and it’s surrounded by bars and restaurants. So, if you’ve ever wanted to have a few drinks to the sound of the waves, this is where to do it.
And the final area is San Carlos, an upscale local area that’s perfect for families or people traveling with kids because of its quiet, refined atmosphere.
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Cadiz
If you’re looking for the best areas in Cadiz to stay in, then here’s a quick rundown.
#1 Old Town – Where to Stay in Cadiz First for Time
If you want to be close to everything, then Old Town Cadiz is for you. This is one of the best areas in Cadiz to stay in if you want to be surrounded by history.
It’s located within the old walls that reflect the Roman and Moorish occupations and is filled with narrow streets and buildings that display Gothic and neo-classical architecture.
But there’s more to this area than history. The streets are filled with restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and funky shops that sell almost anything you could want for your trip.
And you’ll find some awesome souvenirs in this area too. It does get a little crowded with tourists, but the atmosphere and energy of the Old Town is worth some crowds.
New Apartment | Best Airbnb in Old Town
Old Town is hands down the best neighborhood in Cadiz to stay in if you want to be close to all the top attractions. And this apartment takes shameless advantage of that. It’s a one-bedroom apartment located in a mansion-style building and the apartment has all the fixings to match that façade.
It’s suitable for 2 guests and offers all the comforts and amenities of home just a few minutes from the city’s best attractions and sites.
Summer Cadiz | Best Hostel in Old Town
This hostel in Cadiz puts you right in the center of Old Town. It’s an awesome place to meet fellow travelers as it has a rooftop terrace and shared rooms where you can sit and share your stories.
You’ll have access to a guest kitchen and enjoy a free breakfast every day of your stay. The rooms are brightly decorated and comfortable and are a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Cadiz on a budget.
Casa Patio del Panadero | Best Hotel in Old Town
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for your first time or on a return trip, this is the ideal choice. It’s located right in the center of the city, close to all the best attractions, bars, and restaurants.
Each comfortable apartment has a private bathroom and modern amenities and the hotel offers an in-house café where you can have a meal before you head out for the day.
Things to See and Do in Old Town:
- Wander the narrow streets and look for treasures.
- Take a trip up the Torre Tavira to get 360 views of the city from one of the 18th-century towers.
- Visit the Museum of Cadiz to learn more about the city’s history.
- Explore a few of the popular plazas in the area such as Plaza San Antonio, Plaza San Juan de Dios, and Plaza de Mina.
- Make sure that you try as much of the food as possible.
- Find a cozy spot and do some people watching in the plazas.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Santa Maria – Where to Stay in Cadiz on a Budget
If you don’t like spending all your time around the tourists that tend to cluster around Old Town, then Santa Maria is the best neighborhood in Cadiz to stay in for easy proximity to the center and a bit of peace. It’s located just outside the Old Town area and offers cheaper accommodation.
This is a more local neighborhood, so you won’t find as many tourist restaurants or shops in this area. It’s a local barrio with local prices and probably the best food you’ll eat in the city!
The beaches are a little further away when you stay in Santa Maria, but the proximity to the Old Town makes up for that lack.
Santa Maria 12 Boutique Apartamentos | Best Hotel in Santa Maria
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Cadiz, this accommodation option will suit almost any traveler. It has a sun deck, outdoor terrace, tour desk, and bicycle rental on site as well as 4 traditional apartments.
The apartments are outfitted with everything you’ll need for a cozy stay and include a private bathroom and kitchenette.
Hotel Patagonia Sur | Best Hotel in Santa Maria
Located in one of Cadiz’s best neighborhoods, this hotel is perfect for groups and people traveling on their own. It offers 3-star facilities including an in-house restaurant, lounge bar, and a daily breakfast.
The rooms have their own shower, a telephone, cooling and heating, and a minibar as well as all the usual essentials. The hotel is also surrounded by eateries and shops, so you’ll be spoiled for choice for things to do and eat.
Gadir Central | Best Airbnb in Santa Maria
This apartment is one of the best places to stay in Cadiz. It’s suitable for up to 4 guests and offers complete privacy with a private bathroom and kitchen. It’s close to the beach as well as to lots of restaurants and bars so you’ll never get hungry or bored.
The furnishings are modern, clean, and suitable for a short or long stay.
Gadir Central is one of our favourites in Cadiz but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Santa Maria:
- Make sure you eat where the locals eat for the most delicious meals of your trip!
- Explore the beautiful and historic Iglesia de Santa María Catholic Church.
- Head into the Center of town for some intense shopping and architecture.
- Visit the Parroquia de Santa Cruz church with its domed roof and airy, seaside location.
- See a Flamenco show at the Peña Flamenca la Perla de Cádiz.
#3 La Viña – Best Area to Stay in Cadiz for Nightlife
Just beside Old Town is Barrio de la Viña. This part of the city was once filled with orchards and vineyards before it became the center of the city’s fishing industry.
It’s also one of the best areas to stay in Cadiz if you want easy access to the beach, as it offers the closest beach to downtown.
This part of the city is now alive bars and restaurants and is one of the best places in Cadiz to stay for a fun night out. You’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of places to eat, drink and meet new people in this part of the city.
It’s filled with tapas bars and beach restaurants, so get out and enjoy a uniquely Spanish night on the town!
Apartment in the Center of Cadiz | Best Airbnb in La Viña
Located in one of the best areas to stay in Cadiz, this is both close to the center and in the middle of a vibrant local neighborhood. It’s close to the beach and to restaurants and offers a private bathroom, single bedroom, and sofa bed in the lounge for an additional guest.
The furnishings are sparse but clean, modern, and suitable for a short or long stay.
Dormir en Cadiz | Best Hostel in La Viña
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Cadiz to be close to everything, this accommodation will suit a range of travelers. It’s a short stroll from the beach and offers a rooftop terrace, free Wi-Fi, and a safe.
There are 7 rooms available, each of them with a private bathroom and all the essentials.
Parador de Cadiz | Best Hotel in La Viña
With an outdoor pool and sauna, this hotel offers great facilities if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday. It’s close to several popular city attractions as well as cafes, restaurants, and shops.
The hotel boasts a bar and restaurant so you can relax with a meal and a drink after a long day of sightseeing. And the rooms come in a variety of sizes so it’s a great choice whether you’re deciding where to stay in Cadiz for families or with friends.
Things to See and Do in La Viña:
- Head down to the beach for sunbathing and swimming.
- Try all the tapas bars until you find your favorites.
- Grab your friends and head out for a night of club-hopping.
- If you’re in the city at the right time of year, make sure you check out the Cadiz Carnival.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Playa Victoria – Coolest Place to Stay in Cadiz
You can’t visit Cadiz and not spend some time at the beach. And the most popular area for that is the neighborhood around Playa Victoria.
This is one of the busiest and best beaches in Cadiz and it’s where you’ll find all the best beach hotels as well as lots of bars and restaurants. Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for nightlife or for the beach scene, this is the area to choose.
While you’re on the beach, you’ll have lots to do because it’s well set up for beach sports. It’s also right in the middle of the city, so when you get overheated or sick of getting sand everywhere, you can head in for some air conditioning and shopping.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for families, then head next door to Santa Maria del Mar. This beach is within walking distance of the main beach but it’s much quieter.
It has two breakwaters that keep the water calm, so is perfect for small children.
The Workshop | Best Airbnb in Playa Victoria
This oddly named apartment is right on the beach, so you can head down there in the morning before everyone else arrives. It’s a good choice whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for one night or for a longer stay.
It’s suitable for 2 guests and you’ll get the entire apartment to yourself during your stay.
Cadiz Inn Backpackers | Best Hostel in Playa Victoria
This is one of the coolest places to stay in Cadiz. It’s within 200 meters of the beach and a few minutes’ walk from all the charms and attractions of Old Town.
There’s a bus and train station nearby and the rooms are bright, cleanly decorated and come in a range of sizes to suit all travel groups.
Hotel Playa Victoria | Best Hotel in Playa Victoria
This hotel in Cadiz is simply superb. It boasts an outdoor pool, a coffee bar, and 24-hour room service. All the rooms are air-conditioned and have a private bathroom, mini bar, and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel is incredibly close to the beach and surrounded by bars, cafes, and restaurants and you can also book tours at the front desk if you want to go further afield.
Things to See and Do in Playa Victoria:
- Hire a chair and sit on the beach with a good book.
- Try out the bars and restaurants in the area when you get sick of the sand.
- Play some beach rugby or volleyball and work off all that Spanish food.
- Head over to Santa Maria del Mar for some relaxing, peaceful beach time.
- Do some people watching on the promenade.
- Take the bus into the center of Cadiz for some air conditioning.
#5 San Carlos – Best Neighborhood in Cadiz for Families
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz with kids, San Carlos is a good choice. It’s a local, slightly upscale neighborhood that’s mostly residential, so it offers a quiet, refined entrance into the city.
San Carlos overlooks the port and is centered around the Plaza de Espana, so it offers the convenience of a residential neighborhood without the crowds of the city center.
San Carlos is well connected to the center, so you can head in there to explore and then retreat to your quiet oasis. It also boasts several tourist attractions as well as lots of local shops and restaurants where you can get a more authentic local experience.
Alameda 2 | Best Airbnb in San Carlos
Located in one of Cadiz’s best neighborhoods for proximity to the center and a local feel, this apartment would be perfect for families or friends traveling together. It’s suitable for up to 4 guests and offers new fixings and amenities as well as a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom.
South Hostel Cadiz | Best Hostel in San Carlos
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of historic charm and beach access, then this is one of the coolest places to stay in Cadiz. It’s in a colonial building that was built in 1888 with large spaces, high rooves, and lovely balconies.
It’s a short stroll from the center of town and from the beach and offers modern and comfortable rooms that would suit all budget travelers.
Alquimia Albergue-Hotel | Best Hotel in San Carlos
This hotel is a good choice whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz with kids or with your friends. It boasts lots of amenities to make your stay more comfortable such as a sun deck, rooftop terrace, free Wi-Fi, and friendly, helpful staff.
There are 20 rooms available, each of them with private bathrooms and modern facilities.
Things to See and Do in San Carlos:
- Explore the stunning Plaza de España, built in 1928 and the center of this neighborhood.
- Head up to see the Casa de la 4 Torres or House of Four Towers.
- Check out the local markets for unique, authentic souvenirs.
- Explore the local area until you find the restaurants the locals enjoy and then try them out for yourself!
- Head into Old Town for some sightseeing and then retreat to your peaceful accommodation.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cadiz
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cadiz and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cadiz
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Cadiz
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Cadiz for your first time or are returning for another visit, you’ll find lots of places to stay in this amazing city. No matter what your budget or travel preference, it won’t be difficult for you to find a comfortable and convenient base for yourself.
That means that all you have to do is book your trip and get busy enjoying everything this city has to offer.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Spain.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Cadiz.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Spain instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Spain to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Spain.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
