Cadiz

Cadiz, founded in 1100 BC on a peninsula 76 miles (122km) south of Seville as a Phoenician trading post, is said to be the oldest inhabited city in western Europe and is a very popular holiday destination. Cadiz had to wait, however, until the 16th century before it came into its own as a launching point for journeys to the newly discovered lands of the Americas. From here Columbus set out on his second voyage. Sir Francis Drake later famously raided the city, as did Napoleon. The city's Old Town is picturesque and Moorish, with cobbled streets and squares presided over by the golden cupola of the Cadiz Cathedral. There is a gallery displaying some of Goya's works, and some lush parks on the headlands which offer panoramic views of the bay. The city is also home to some of Spain's loveliest beaches, including La Playa de la Caleta, situated between two castles of the Old Town, and La Playa de la Victoria, which is the most visited by holidaymakers due to its safe bathing and water sports. Cadiz is a fantastic destination for those keen to combine a lazy beach holiday with a wealth of cultural and historical diversions.