Cadiz, Spain Guide

Know Before You Go...®

The Costa del Sol, Spain’s “Sun Coast,” is a stunning Mediterranean destination offering golden beaches, vibrant towns, and year-round sunshine. Known for its lively atmosphere, this region is perfect for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration. Coastal resorts like Marbella and Torremolinos combine luxury with natural beauty, while historic towns such as Málaga showcase rich history and world-class art, including the Picasso Museum. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, enjoy water sports, or explore charming villages like Mijas. With its breathtaking landscapes and blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, the Costa del Sol promises an unforgettable getaway for all types of travelers.

Why Cadiz, Spain?

  • Cadiz is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe.
  • It is home to the longest pleasure pier in Europe.
  • The city has more than 100 watchtowers built to watch over the coastline.
  • Cadiz is known for its vibrant Carnaval celebration.
  • It is known as the birthplace of the Spanish Constitution of 1812.

Cadiz, Spain Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
57° F
° F
February
61° F
° F
March
65° F
° F
April
68° F
° F
May
76° F
° F
June
85° F
° F
July
92° F
° F
August
91° F
° F
September
85° F
° F
October
74° F
° F
November
64° F
° F
December
58° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.9 inches
February
2.8 inches
March
2.4 inches
April
2 inches
May
1.3 inches
June
0.8 inches
July
0.2 inches
August
0.2 inches
September
0,8 inches
October
2.4 inches
November
3.5 inches
December
3.3 inches

History

The Costa del Sol, located along Spain’s southern coast, has a history as vibrant as its famous beaches. Its origins trace back to ancient times, with early settlements by the Phoenicians, who founded the city of Málaga around 770 BC as a trading hub. The Romans later brought infrastructure, including aqueducts and amphitheaters, leaving a lasting cultural imprint. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the region became a center of Moorish influence during the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus, evident in its architecture, such as Málaga’s Alcazaba fortress.

The Christian Reconquista in the late Middle Ages transformed the region, as it became part of the Spanish Kingdom under Catholic monarchs. In the centuries that followed, the Costa del Sol remained a quiet fishing and agricultural area until the 20th century. The mid-1900s marked its transformation into a global tourist hotspot. With the advent of modern air travel, the area’s stunning coastline, mild climate, and picturesque villages drew visitors from around the world.

Today, the Costa del Sol seamlessly blends its rich historical legacy with a cosmopolitan flair. Its ancient ruins, charming old towns, and lively resorts attract millions of visitors, making it a symbol of cultural and natural beauty.

Transportation on Cadiz, Spain

Getting to Cadiz, Spain and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Most nationalities can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be required.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Spain; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right.
  • Roads: Well-maintained with excellent highways and scenic coastal routes.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious on winding roads in the mountains and near the coastline. Parking can be limited in tourist-heavy areas like Marbella, Torremolinos, or Nerja during peak season.

Local Transportation

The Costa del Sol offers efficient and convenient transportation options. A reliable bus network connects major towns and smaller villages, while trains, such as the Cercanías line, link Málaga with coastal areas like Fuengirola. Málaga Airport serves as the region’s main gateway, with taxis and ride-hailing services widely available. Car rentals are popular for exploring at your own pace, while ferries offer access to nearby destinations across the Mediterranean.

Know Before You Go...® - Cadiz, Spain Travel Tips

Before making their way to Cadiz, Spain , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Cadiz, Spain even more relaxing.

Capital: Not applicable
Population: 1.5 million (across the region, estimated)
Size: 87 miles along the southern coast of Spain (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Time: Timezone: CET, 2025-03-13 16:56:55
(GMT Offset: 1 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: Spanish is the official language of the Costa del Sol. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants due to its popularity among international visitors.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
  • ATMs are widely available in towns and tourist areas.
  • Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
  • Contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and transport services.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants and for guides.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax) of 21% is typically included in displayed prices.
Dress Code: The Costa del Sol has a relaxed Mediterranean dress code. Lightweight, casual attire is ideal for daytime activities, while smart casual is recommended for evenings and upscale dining. Swimwear is appropriate for beaches and pools but not in towns or restaurants.
Topography: The Costa del Sol boasts stunning sandy beaches, rugged coastal cliffs, and scenic mountains. Inland, visitors can explore picturesque whitewashed villages, while the coastal areas offer vibrant promenades, marinas, and world-class golf courses.
Telephone: * Country code: +34 * Area code for Málaga and the Costa del Sol: 952. * Mobile networks and Wi-Fi are widely available in hotels, restaurants, and public areas.

Cadiz, Spain Weddings and Honeymoons

In the Costa Del Sol, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Submit a marriage application to the Registro Civil (Civil Registry Office) in the municipality where the marriage will take place. At least one partner must have legal residency in Spain or provide a valid reason for marrying in the Costa del Sol.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards
  • Birth certificates (translated into Spanish and certified with an Apostille)
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (issued by your home country and translated into Spanish)
  • Proof of residency in Spain for at least one partner (if applicable)
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Application form provided by the Civil Registry Office

Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator and certified with an Apostille.

Publication of Banns: Marriage banns may need to be posted at the Civil Registry Office for a minimum of 15 days before the ceremony.

Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted by a registrar, typically at the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) or Civil Registry Office.

Costs: Marriage registration fees are minimal, usually under €100. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and venue arrangements.

Symbolic or religious ceremonies are popular on the Costa del Sol, with scenic locations such as beach resorts, luxury villas, or historic churches in Marbella, Malaga, or Estepona. These are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.