23 of the Best Things to Do in Cadiz
Cadiz is a fascinating city where the term travelling deeper is taken to a whole new level. It encourages you to look underground, out to the horizon and be amongst the rooftops. Succumb to the easy…
Want to tick off all the best parties around the globe? Serious clubbers know to hit Las Vegas, Miami, Ibiza and the legendary club nights in Marbella. This glamorous town is the last word in sophisticated clubbing, an adult playground where party boats steam off into blazing sunshine, beautiful people drink cocktails on day beds and world-class artists pump music into the small hours.
Think miles of silky sand dotted with buzzing bars and beach clubs, where cocktail quaffing is actively encouraged, comperes dare you to spray as much Champagne as you drink, and raucous closing parties round off the clubbing season. There’s no party like a Marbella party – it’s just a matter of knowing where to go and when. Going out in Marbella is about relaxing and let your hair down, so we’ve done the hard work for you – read up, dress to impress and head out into the sunshine…
Unmissable Club Nights and Parties in 2022
There’s so much to do, it can be hard to choose where to party in Marbella. Allow us to give you an overview of the huge events you’d be devastated to miss, from artist residencies to weekly ladies days via the biggest celebrity appearances.
Aqwa Mist
One of the best clubs in Marbella, Aqwa Mist sits directly under La Sala bar. It’s open daily from 1am until dawn, with an unrivalled sound system and 30ft waterfall. Heavily leaning towards RnB, Hip Hop and Urban music book ahead if you can – it has a large VIP area, complete with a private hot tub.
DON’T MISS:
Faded Fridays 2022 – The hottest RnB
19th July 2022 – Charly Black
26th July 2022 – Kevin Lyttle
Mirage
Complete with a Funktion One audio system, cutting edge laser show and floor to ceiling video screens, Marbella’s newest club goes all out on the tech decor – and the celeb bookings.
DON’T MISS:
Vanity – 3rd June & 26th August 2022
Paris Je Taime – Every Thursday
Ladies Night – Mondays with Belvedere Vodka
Tibu
Tibu is sleek and upmarket, with a spacious open-air terrace if you need a breather. Start the week with Tropicana Mondays, Marbella’s biggest industry night, or head to Cirque Marbella on Wednesdays – prepare to get glitter bombed.
DON’T MISS:
Weekly nights with DJ’s the likes of Franglish, Colin Francis and Shaq Five.
Pangea
Parties run from Thursday to Sunday night at Pangea, with amazing views of the harbour bursting with chic super yachts.
DON’T MISS:
Every weekend until the closing party on Saturday 1st October 2022
Olivia Valere
Open every night of the week from 9pm to 7am, OV is housed in a Moorish castle, and the setting is nothing short of breath-taking. The newly attached pool club Nao promises to keep things wet ’n’ wild.
DON’T MISS:
2022 dates TBC
Boat Parties
Marbella boat parties are nothing short of wild. Turn up the tempo on dreamy summer days with beautiful people, flowing drinks, glittering waters and a gentle breeze, then party into the night back on dry land. The world’s best DJs provide the soundtrack to a day of debauchery, where you’ll find a fully stocked bar and an electric atmosphere. The best parties in Marbella happen on water, and they’re perfect for special occasions – we recommend planning one for a birthday, hen party and stag do you’ll never forget (but struggle to remember).
DON’T MISS:
-
Candypants – DATES FOR 2022 TBC
Simply the best boat parties Marbella has to offer, Candypants’ legendary booze cruises are unrivalled. Let the Candygirls host you for a daytime drinking session like no other, checking in at Babilonia at Puerto Banus from 1.30pm and coming in to shore at 4.30pm. Making waves in destinations across Europe and now Dubai, the home of Candypants will always be Marbella. Finishing up this early leaves you plenty of time to get polished for round two that evening – going out in Marbella doesn’t stop until you want it to.
Pool Parties
For the full experience, you can’t head home without hitting a Marbella pool party. Pack your glitziest swimsuit and highest wedges because this is your moment to get noticed (‘no carbs before Marbs’ suddenly makes a lot of sense – there’s a lot of skin on show). A sea of bronzed bodies and brunch platters, days start off pretty chilled as party-goers snooze off hangovers on squidgy beds in the sun. As the heat turns up, so does the bass – the weather forecast says Champagne showers – and when it rains, it pours.
Nikki Beach
Open every day from 10am, head straight here for the ultimate pool party Marbella style. Every Tuesday is Ladies Day, so get in touch to secure your free day bed.
DON’T MISS:
Amazing Sundays – Every Sunday from 13.00hrs during May until October 2022
Annual White Party – 16th June 2022 from 18.00hrs
Ocean Club
The most (in)famous party in Marbella for a reason, this is where Champagne parties were born – the original hub of poolside excess. Order a platter of sushi to line your stomach before cocktails, cocktails and more cocktails.
DON’T MISS:
Opening Party – 29th April 2022
Champagne Parties – 1st May, 29th May, 26th June, 28th August 2022
15th Anniversary Party – 15th August 2022
Other notable event dates – 22nd May, 19th June, 24th July, 21st August 2022
Closing party – 1st October 2022
Every Friday – Live Djs from around the world
Closing Parties
Read on for the hottest Marbella closing parties has to offer. Watch an incredible season come to climax at one of these outrageous celebrations, where dancers, flame throwers, acrobats and fireworks will compete for your attention – not to mention thumping beats and beautiful people throwing themselves into one last Marbella fiesta.
DON’T MISS:
Ocean Club
- Closing party 1st october 2022
Closing parties in Marbella are a big deal, and Ocean Club’s firework display is seriously impressive. Don your slickest black outfit with accents of gold (or vice versa, if you really want to turn heads) and get ready to shine until sunset. As darkness falls, the venue goes from laid-back daytime hangout to a downright decadent evening joint.
Nikki Beach
-
Red Party – TBC
One of the biggest closing parties Marbella can offer, expect glamorous guests as far as the eye can see (and a few famous faces, too) – all dressed strictly in red, of course.
To get yourself on the guestlist, book the best table and receive VIP treatment on arrival, contact our concierge.
Need some retail therapy after all that partying? See our guide to the best shopping spots in Marbella.
Ben Cooper
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[post_content] => Cadiz is a fascinating city where the term travelling deeper is taken to a whole new level. It encourages you to look underground, out to the horizon and be amongst the rooftops. Succumb to the easy going way of life of the gaditanos – relax, eat well and be inspired by this ancient city.
1. Torre Tavira
Climb this eighteenth-century watchtower, learn about the watchtowers of Cadiz (some pictured above) and see Cadiz through its camera obscura at the top.
C. Marqués del Real Tesoro, 10, 11001 Cádiz. Torretavira.com
2. Playa La Caleta
A day on the beach or hit it at 6pm for cake – street food to beach food. Sellers usually roam the beaches from about 5pm to 6pm. Then grab a drink and watch the sunset over the bay.
3. Cathedral
Taking over 100 years to complete and with its unique golden dome and silver collection it’s worth a visit.
Pl. de la Catedral, s/n, 11005 Cádiz. Catedraldecadiz.com
4. Iglesia de Santa Cruz
The original cathedral of Cadiz it was build in its form today in 1602.
Pl. Fray Félix, 6, 11005 Cádiz
5. Mercado Central
Fresh food and casual eateries make the market the heart of the city. Hit the gastromarket side of the market for tapas.
Pl. de la Libertad, S/N, 11005 Cádiz
6. Pause in a Plaza
Meander and stop for coffees or something strong in one of the pretty squares. Plaza de las Flores and Plaza de la Candelaria are two favourites.
7. Yacimiento Arqueológico Gadir
This archaeological museum with a focus on Phoenician culture helps you travel under the city to ancient Cadiz.
Address: C. San Miguel, 15, 11001 Cádiz. Open: Tues - Sat 11.00 - 15.00hrs and 17.00 - 21.00hrs. Sun 11.00 - 15.00hrs. Entrance free.
8. Park Genoves
Beside the sea this city park has a playground, fountains and it’s a great place to run off little legs or meander after a long lunch.
Parque Genovés, Av. Dr. Gómez Ulla, s/n, 11003 Cádiz
9. Museum of Cadiz
From archaeological artifacts to art and puppets, the museum of Cadiz is an interesting way to spend a couple of hours if not only to find out the importance of puppeteering in the city.
Address: Pl. de Mina, s/n, 11004 Cádiz. Museosdeandalucia.es
10. Castillo de Santa Catalina
A curious shape castle, originally built in 1598 gives great views and an insight into its military past.
C. Campo de las Balas, s/n, 11002 Cádiz. Open during summer, Mon - Sun 11.00 - 20.30hrs.
11. Plaza de San Juan de Dios
The old main square of the city is a great place to start discovering Cadiz.
12. Teatro Romano
This 1st century B.C. Roman theatre in the centre of the old town is the oldest and second largest on the Iberian Peninsula.
Address: C. Mesón, 11, 13, 11005 Cádiz. Summer opening times (1st April - 30th Sept) Mon - Sat 11.00 - 17.00hrs and Sun 10.00 - 17.00hrs. Winter opening times (1st oct - 31st Mar) Mon - Sat 10.00 - 16.30hrs and Sun 10.00 - 14.00hrs. Closed the first Monday of every month. Entrance is free.
13. Puppet Museum (Museo del Titere)
A good family option, it's somewhat interactive and home to puppets from all over the world.
Puertas de Tierra, Bóvedas de Santa Elena, s/n, 11006 Cádiz. Open Tues - Sun 10.00 - 21.00hrs. Entrance is free.
14. See the Sunset at San Sebastian Castle
This castle and lighthouse is on a small island with a walkway linking it (even at high tide) to the end of the pier at La Caleta beach.
It's said that the father of Zeus, Tronos, had his temple on the island. The lighthouse that you can see today has Moorish foundations and that is just the beginning of this little island's history.
P.º Fernando Quiñones, s/n, Cádiz
15. Oratory of San Felipe Neri Church
Home to one of Murillo’s finest works and one of the few Andalucian Baroque architectural examples of elliptical arches.
C. San José, 36, 11003 Cádiz
16. Gran Teatro Falla
For an evening surrounded by 18th century grandeur, check out this Neo-Mudejar theatre in the old town. (See its program here).
Pl. Fragela, s/n, 11003 Cádiz
17. CUEVA CATACUMBAS DEL BEATERIO
These catacombs are much less morbid than you’d imagine with an incredible story. Access is six metres under the city through a courtyard in a residential building.
C. Valverde, n3, 11004 Cádiz. Catacumbasdelbeaterio.com
18. Carnival
Celebrated just before the beginning of Lent this very lively week-long festival sees everyone take to the streets in fancy dress. There’s traditional music in the form of satire singing groups that you can hear around the streets and at the theatre. Usually during February, 40 days before Easter.
19. Walk Around the Old Town
Take in the feel of the city by wandering around two distinct areas: El Populo and La Viña, the latter of which is the old fisherman’s area. Don’t miss Plaza Tío de la Tiza and Restaurant El Faro.
20. Casa-Palacio Moreno de Mora
A fine example of an Elizabethan-style palace from the 1800s.
C. Ancha, 28, 30, 11001 Cádiz. Only open on Wednesdays at 10.00hrs via prior arrangement through this email [email protected]
21. Hospital de Mujeres
A quick visit of this old hospital and chapel offers a magnificent El Greco painting of St Francis and a rather special central courtyard.
C. Hospital de Mujeres, 26, 11001 Cádiz
22. Visit El Puerto DE Santa Maria by Boat
Cadiz is at the end of a peninsula so there are regular boats going across to the mainland. Take a day trip to El Puerto de Santa Maria – see the sights like the Castle of San Marcos and do some sherry tasting.
Port: Av. del Puerto, 2B, 11006 Cádiz
Castle of San Marcos, Pl. Alfonso X el Sabio, 3, 11500 El Puerto de Sta María, Cádiz
23. Casa de Iberoamerica
This Neoclassic building, once a former prison, is now an event and exhibition space.
C. Concepción Arenal, s/n, 11006 Cádiz
Useful Information
How to get to Cadiz by car
From Seville airport 129km 1hr 14min
From Malaga airport 225km 2hr 20min
From Jerez 34.9km 28min
From Gibraltar 118km 1hr 24min
From Marbella 177km 1hr 49min
Tempted you to discover Cadiz city? Have a look at our selection of villas on the Costa de la Luz.
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[post_content] => The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights.
But it's also the country's most visited tourist attraction – and as such probably needs little in the way of introduction (and promotion).
So let’s concentrate instead on some of the lesser-known wonders that this fabulous city has to offer. Here then is our pick of the top things to see and do in Granada – that aren't the Alhambra...
1. The Albayzin
For centuries, Moorish and Christian traditions coexisted harmoniously in Granada, and the Albayzin neighbourhood is a beautiful and atmospheric relic of this enlightened past.
The Alhambra and the Albayzin look across at one another, with each view being just as magnificent as the other. Meander through the narrow cobbled streets, pause in squares to admire the view or stop for a tapas and a cool drink.
Why visit:
Revel in the Moorish and Andalucian style that can be discovered around every narrow corner or small square. Take in the view and drink champagne overlooking the Alhambra Palace – El Huerto de Juan Ranas has a great terrace. (Calle Atarazana Vieja, 6.)
Tapas stops:
Taberna El Beso. Moroccan food in the surroundings of a beautiful little palace. The owner also has a small collection of antiques and objets from Morocco for sale. (Cuesta de San Gregorio, s/n, 18010 Granada.)
Higher in the Albayzin is Casa de los Mascarones. It's a little rough and ready, but offers great tapas with a very local Albayzin feel. (Calle Pagés, 20, 18010 Granada.)
Bar Kiki and Cafe Gabriel are two other favourites – see our guide to restaurants in Granada if you're looking for further recommendations.
2. Palacio Dar al-Horra
Deep in the Albayzin, this mini palace often gets overlooked. Once the home of Aixa, mother of Boabdil, the last Moorish king of Granada, it has magnificent views of the Albayzin and only takes a short time to visit.
The best way to visit Palacio Dar al-Horra is to buy a ticket to the Andalucian Monuments: Tickets.alhambra-patronato.es. This includes Palacio Dar al-Horra, Corral del Carbón, Bañuelo and Casa Morisca (Calle Horno de Oro). You can also buy tickets at the entrance of Palacio Dar al-Horra – it closes between 14.30-17-00hrs. (Callejón de las Monjas Albayzin, s/n, 18008 Granada.)
3. Cathedral & Capilla Real
If you've got more than a passing interest in Spanish history a visit to the Capilla Real, where the Catholic Kings Isabel and Ferdinand are buried, is a must.
The first Renaissance church in Spain, the mighty Granada Cathedral also forms part of the sample complex and can be visited alongside the Royal Chapel. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
To the rear of the Cathedral is the fresh food market, San Agustín. Here La Picatería is a great bet for a spot of tapas. (Plaza de San Agustín, S/N, 18001 Granada.)
4. Plaza Bib Rambla
Granada doesn’t have a plaza mayor (a main square) per se, but Plaza Bib Rambla more than ably fills the role.
As the first square of Granada, Plaza Bib Rambla has survived a long and varied history… from markets, jousting, bull fighting, religious processions and even executions, this square has seen it all. Now there are flower stalls, restaurants and street entertainers. Much more civilised.
Tapas Stop:
La Telefonica, just off the square. (Calle Arco de las Orejas, 1, 18001 Granada.)
5. Go Shopping
A memento or two from your travels is always a must. But what should you buy in Granada?
- Spices & tea: Not to be missed are the Moroccan-style tea shops and souvenir shops along Caldereria Nueva, close to Calle Elvira. In the lower part of the Albayzin, it’s a great place to buy some tea, spices or North African cakes.
- Ceramics: Granada (and Andalucia) has a long history of decorative ceramics, dating all the way back to the 15th century. You’ll notice decorative tiles throughout the city. The blue and green pomegranate design ('granada' means 'pomegranate' in Spanish) on vases and plates are a traditional decoration and make for a lovely gift. Ceramics are still produced in the city today at Fajalauza. (Calle Fajalauza 2, Albayzin Alto.)
- Leather: 5V Valverde is a speciality shop from yesteryear dealing in handmade leather shoes, boots and bags. Exquisite quality, one of the best cordwainers in southern Spain. (Calle Reyes Católicos, 32, 18009 Granada.)
- Jewellery: A great option for giftables is Platonica (Platonicajoyeria.com). Locally designed and made jewellery, some influenced by Nasrid culture. (Carrera del Darro, 8, 18010 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
Taberna 22 is a sunny little spot with a great atmosphere at the end of Caldereria Nueva. The tapas is, well... basic. But it's on one of the main thoroughfares from the centre of Granada to the Albayzin. (Plaza San Gregorio, 29, 18010 Granada.) After choosing your winter boots at 5V Valverde, stop at Casa de Vinos La Brujidera. (Calle Monjas del Carmen, 2, 18009 Granada.) Near Platonica, for tapas try La Tabernilla del Darro. (Puente de Espinosa, 15, 18010 Granada.) For a drink (after 20.00hrs) go to Huerto del Loro. (Cuesta de la Churra, 4, 18009 Granada.)6. water & granada – a tour
Water is a constant in the architecture of Granada, from shallow channels that cool houses to elaborate, babbling fountains. A tour is the best way to travel deeper and understand the inventive and intellectual complexity of Moorish water traditions in southern Spain.
On this tour you’ll take in sights such as the Aljibe del Rey (a well) and the Bañuelo (Arabic bath house). Contact our concierge for bespoke tours.
7. Rodriguez Acosta Foundation
While you’re up on the Alhambra hill, if you love architecture this carmen (a house with garden in Granada) is definitely worth a visit.
Owned by artist Rodriquez Acosta and built between 1916 and 1930, the building itself is an eclectic mix of styles, but the gardens and tunnels are absolutely fascinating.
It's worth bearing in mind that some tickets for the Alhambra include entrance to this lesser-known museum. During summer 2022 the museum has been closed for works; a new open date is to be confirmed. (Callejón Niño del Royo, 8, 18009 Granada.)
8. Corral del Carbón
Back in the city centre, head to the Corral del Carbon. This building dates back to the 14th century, when it was used as an inn for merchants of the silk trade, but over the years it's had many uses. There would have been hundreds of these buildings in Spain but, sadly, very few still stand today. For this reason it has great historic significance and is an excellent example of a Moorish construction in superb condition. Entrance is free and it’s open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 20:00. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)Tapas Stop:
Asador Corrala del Carbon - a characterful bar and restaurant; stop for tapas, not a meal. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 8, 18009 Granada.)9. Botanical Gardens
The Jardin Botanico de la Universidad de Granada is a small botanical garden in the centre of the city under five minutes' walk from the Cathedral. As botanical gardens go it’s perfectly pleasant enough, but it’s in a lovely corner of town and you can stroll through the university building, too. The area has a student feel, with a great selection of vintage clothes shops and fun tapas stops. (Calle Escuelas, n, 18001 Granada.)Tapas (or cocktail) stop:
Humo El Origen (Calle Escuelas, 2, 18001 Granada) or Lemon Rock, for a buzzy live music vibe (Calle Montalbán, 6, 18002 Granada).10. The Science Park
A great stop for kids is Granada's Parque de las Ciencias. It easily keeps little minds busy for a day with indoor/outdoor attractions, interactive play for all ages, and a biodome with animals. Closed Mondays. (Avenida de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada.)11. Flamenco
Cut Granada and it bleeds flamenco. And at the heart of that flamenco heritage is Sacromonte, a neighbourhood of cave houses just on the outskirts of the Albayzin. Sacromonte is famed for the 'Zambra' style of flamenco. This raw form of dance is often performed barefoot and is thought to have its origins in Morisco dance.Where to see flamenco in Granada?
Although Granada has this deep flamenco heritage, catching some of the real deal first hand can be a little harder. Our three picks to see flamenco are: Jardinesdezoraya.com, Laplateria.org.es and Casadelarteflamenco.com.12. MAKE FOR A Mirador
With its skyline spectacularly crowned by the Alhambra Palace, Granada was always going to be a city that's about the views.
Mirador San Nicolas and Placeta Cristo Azucenas are two large squares in the Albayzin neighbourhood with uninterrupted views of the Alhambra. Hang around as the moon rises from behind the Alhambra and watch as it changes colour from ochra to terracotta.
13. San Juan de Dios Basilica
This church is one for Baroque fans. With its intricate frescoes, it’s one of the finest examples of the architectural style to be found anywhere in Andalucia. (Calle San Juan de Dios, 19, 17, 18001 Granada.)
14. Sacromonte Abbey
Outside of Granada: Granada Province
15. La Cartuja
Another outstanding example of Spanish Baroque architecture, the Cartuja monastery is just a short drive outside Granada city. (Paseo de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada.)16. Rio Verde
About an hour's drive to the south of the city, Rio Verde is an exceptional canyoning spot. A guide is necessary as wetsuits, ropes and protective equipment are needed.
Recommended guide: Localexperiences.es.
17. Las Alpujarras
Hidden away along incredible winding roads, this collection of 25 white mountain villages was once pretty much cut off from the outside world. Trevelez, the highest municipality in Spain, is 1476m above sea level and located at the foot of Mulhacen, the highest mountain in mainland Spain. Other Albujarras villages of note are Soportújar, Lanajaron and Pampaneira.18. Skiing
At the height of a sultry Granada summer it can be hard to believe that the winter might bring snow. But you can ski in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains from December to April. See our full guide here.
19. Lecrin Valley
While it may be less well-known than the nearby Alpujarras, in our opinion this collection of 17 villages is more beautiful. They may not have any obvious gimmicks or the fame and visitors that come with it, but they also go about their rural business relatively untouched by tourism.20. Montefrio
National Geographic named this pretty town as having one of the best views in the world – and who are we to argue? It's got an atmospherically ruined Moorish castle and an impressive church, while just outside the town is Las Peñas de los Gitanos, which is home to some excellent examples of Megalithic constructions.21. Alhama de Granada
This strikingly handsome old town is perched precariously on the edge of a gorge. It’s famed for its natural spa baths just outside the town (rather more medical than luxury) and has a great walking route through the gorge if you like to stretch your legs.22. Vereda de la Estrella
And while we’re talking about walking... there are an awful lot of great hiking routes in and around Granada. One of particular note, La Vereda de la Estrella, is from the village of Güejar Sierra: a 10km linear hike, with a gentle slope, which climbs over the Genil River to the Sierra Nevada. For more information about where to eat in Granada, see our guide here. For villas in Granada province, see our collection. [post_title] => Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => things-see-do-granada [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=242167 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) 1You might also like
Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra)
The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights. But it's also the country's most visited…