Navigating: Cadiz

Public Transportation Overview

Urban Buses (Autobuses Urbanos), operated by Tranvía de Cádiz a San Fernando y Carraca (TCMC), represent the main public transport within Cadiz city, linking the Old Town with the New Town and beaches.

The Tram-Train (Trambahía) system links Cadiz city (from Plaza de España) to nearby towns like San Fernando, Chiclana de la Frontera, and Puerto Real. It uses existing railway lines and new tram lines, offering a practical way to explore the wider bay area.

Transit Systems & Tickets

Urban Buses: Connects Old Town, New Town (Extramuros), and main beaches like Playa de la Victoria.
Tram-Train: Stops include Plaza de España, Cortadura, and main stations in connected towns.
Route maps are available at the bus station, tourist information offices, and online.
Ticketing: Single ticket from driver (€1.10). Bonobús, a rechargeable card, makes available discounted fares for frequent use.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (11:00 PM - 12:00 AM). Frequency varies by line and time of day, less frequent on weekends and holidays. Night bus services may operate on weekends.

Accessibility

Most modern city buses have ramps and designated space for wheelchairs. Tram-train stations and trains also exhibit accessible design. The historic nature of Cadiz Old Town's narrow, cobblestone streets can pose challenges for mobility-impaired individuals.

Navigation Tips

Download Google Maps or a local public transport app like Moovit for real-time tracking and route planning. Utilize offline maps. If you frequently use buses, acquiring a Bonobús card saves money per ride.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Digital Tools for Transit

Download Google Maps for offline use, or Moovit for real-time public transport tracking.
Purchase a Bonobús card for buses; it reduces the cost per ride.
Check schedules for weekends and public holidays, as service frequency often changes.

Exploring the Old Town

For the Old Town, walking is the most efficient and enjoyable way to explore.
Distances between attractions are short, enabling easy pedestrian access.
You will discover many hidden corners and charming spots on foot.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi ID

White cars with a green light on the roof.

Hailing

On the street, at stands, or by phone/app.

Fares

Metered fares apply, with minimums and supplements.

Apps

Uber and Cabify operate in Cadiz for fixed prices.

Taxi & Ride-Share Details

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient and flexible transportation, specifically for direct routes or when carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxi Services

Cadiz taxis are white and display a green "Libre" light when available.
You can hail a taxi on the street, find them at designated stands, or call a service by phone or app.
Cash is always accepted. Many taxis also accept credit/debit cards, but it is wise to confirm with the driver beforehand.
A typical short ride within the Old Town costs around €5-€8.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Both Uber and Cabify operate in Cadiz, offering fixed prices upfront.
Fixed prices are convenient for budgeting your travel expenses.
Availability varies by demand but generally makes available good service in central areas.
Always confirm the driver and vehicle match the app's details for safety.

Safety & Pricing Overview

Licensed taxis are generally very safe. Drivers are regulated, and vehicles undergo regular inspections.
Ride-sharing apps offer transparency with driver and vehicle information, along with ride tracking through the app.
Avoid unofficial taxis or unsolicited rides from individuals. Only use licensed services or established ride-sharing platforms.

The minimum taxi fare is typically around €3-€4.
A taxi from Jerez Airport to Cadiz city center costs approximately €40-€50.
Fares are regulated, but supplements may apply for night service, weekends/holidays, luggage, or originating from the port/train station.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Requirements: minimum age 21, valid license (IDP for non-EU), credit card. Book in advance for better rates through services like DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Specialized shops offer these. Similar license requirements apply. Helmets are legally mandatory for all riders and passengers.

Bicycle Rentals

Cadiz has a public bicycle rental system ("Cadiz en Bici"). Numerous shops also make available private rentals for hourly, daily, or weekly rates.

Driving & Cycling in Cadiz

Driving your own way or exploring on two wheels both have their advantages in Cadiz.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal without a hands-free device.
Drink driving laws are very strict. Do not consume alcohol and drive.
Roads are generally well-maintained, including highways and national roads.

Parking & Safety on Roads

Parking in Cadiz Old Town is extremely challenging and expensive due to narrow streets and limited space.
It is advisable to use public parking garages (e.g., underground parking at Canalejas Plaza, Santa Bárbara) or park outside the Old Town.
Petrol and diesel are widely available. For rental cars, contact the rental company's emergency number for breakdowns.
Main roads are generally safe. Rural roads can be narrow and winding. Speed limits are enforced.

Walking & Cycling Overview

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Cadiz Old Town is extremely pedestrian-friendly; most streets are narrow and suitable only for walking. The waterfront promenade is excellent for strolls.

Explore hidden alleys and charming squares.

Walking Tour Options

Many companies offer guided historical, culinary, or themed walking tours. Free (tip-based) walking tours make available a good introduction to the city's highlights.

Self-guided routes are also widely available.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Cadiz has an expanding network of cycle lanes, specifically along the seafront promenade and in the New Town, which are great for leisurely rides.

Helmets are not legally mandatory for adults in urban areas but are advised.

Specialized Transportation & Tips

Unique Transport Options

City Sightseeing Cadiz makes available a popular open-top hop-on-hop-off bus service for main attractions.
Bahía de Cádiz Catamaran/Ferry connects Cadiz to El Puerto de Santa Marían and Rota across the bay, yielding scenic views.
Cadiz does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport types like tuk-tuks.

Accessibility & Safety

Efforts improve accessibility in newer city parts and major attractions, with low-floor buses and accessible tram-trains.
However, cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks in the Old Town present challenges for limited mobility travelers.
For cyclists, exercise caution on shared roads. Many prefer walking the Old Town's dense alleys.

Unconventional Transport Restrictions

Pedestrian Zones

No "no-go" areas exist from a safety perspective for pedestrians.
Exercise caution on main roads with heavy traffic when walking or cycling.
Cycling is challenging in dense Old Town due to pedestrian traffic and narrow spaces.
Avoid riding bicycles in heavily crowded pedestrian zones, especially during peak hours.

River Transport

No significant river transportation options exist directly in Cadiz.
The city is coastal, situated on the Atlantic, not a major navigable river for city transport.
Funiculars or cable cars are not part of Cadiz's transport system due to its flat geography.
If considering other unique transports, verify their availability and legality beforehand.

Local Transport Tip

For the Old Town, walking is often the most enjoyable and efficient way to explore the city's charm. Distances between attractions are short, and the pedestrian-friendly streets yield many hidden discoveries.

Embrace serendipitous discoveries on foot and soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.

Navigating Cadiz