Silversea Luxury Cruises A CADIZ

Cádiz is the Iberian Peninsula's oldest continuously-inhabited city and lies on a narrow spit of land, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.

Walking Tour, Plaza de España, 19th-century Palaces, Cathedral

This comprehensive program is entirely on foot from the pier.

Your guided stroll begins at Plaza de España, near the port. As with most other Cádiz squares, the nearby Plaza de la Mina, was formerly a large vegetable garden belonging to the San Francisco Convent. You will stroll past the exterior of the Museum, which contains three sections, including an important archaeological exhibit.

While strolling Calle Ancha (Wide Street), you will view several handsome 19th-century Palaces. Nearby, San Juan de Dios Square is protected by seawalls and features a unique marble fountain. But perhaps the Town Hall is the building that best reflects the grace and style of the city.

After a 40-minute visit to the interior of the impressive Cádiz Cathedral, you may either walk back to the pier or remain in town to continue exploring at your leisure.

Depart from Cadiz and enjoy a scenic 75-minute motorcoach ride to the peaceful Pueblo Blanco of Arcos de la Frontera, perched high in the hilltops of the Cadiz Sierras.

Arcos de la Frontera, Gothic Cathedral

These white villages date back to the Spaniard's centuries-long fight to win Spain back from the Muslims (Moors). Arcos' name, de la Frontera, reflects this frontier history. While the wars began in the 9th century, Spain wasn't secure until the 15th century. Yet the town itself became a pillar of Christianity after Alfonso the Wise of Castile (1252-1284) expelled the Moors. The Gothic Cathedral he built remains on its high ridge and is known for its ten bells, which tolled throughout the war with the Moors. Several Moorish banners were taken in the nearby battle of Zahara and have been on display in a church in Arcos since 1483.

Old city walking exploration

Once you arrive, commence your an hour-long walking tour of this cliff-side town. Explore the labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that run out from the Plaza Cabildo. Along the way, admire several churches that were built during the 15th and 16th centuries. Be sure to notice the old Castillo and Santa Maria Church that overlook the square. Strolling through town, come across the impressive homes of nobility, sporting large arched and carved doorways, intermingled with the modest homes of merchants and craftspeople.

Parador, Casa del Corregidor, breath-taking panoramic views and local tapas

Proceed to the old part of the city and the Parador, a former palace that nowadays is a luxurious hotel, and the Casa del Corregidor, the 14th century home of the king's magistrate. Relish the breath-taking panoramic views of the Guadalete River and the plains and farms beyond. Enjoy some tapas and local refreshments. Afterwards, return to your motorcoach for a scenic ride back to Cadiz and re-board the ship.

This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and is specially designed for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair or a scooter.

This Cadiz shore excursion combines an incredible, panoramic drive along the scenic Coast of Light with time to explore several highlights along the way including the white washed fishing village of Conil de la Frontera, the famous Cape of Trafalgar where the British and Spanish were in battle, and the historic city center of Vejer de la Frontera.

Cadiz, Conil de la Frontera

Start your tour by meeting your tour guide at the Cadiz cruise dock. From here, you will head out on a scenic drive from the city of Cadiz to the first stop of your day, the white washed fishing village of Conil de la Frontera. This Andalusian seaside paradise offers a 14 km coastal stretch of beautiful beaches and a historic city center peppered with highlights and intriguing history. Escorted by your tour guide, you will explore the heart of the city on a beautiful leisurely stroll. Among other things, you will see the characteristic old white washed buildings, the Arco de La Villa which is the official city gate to the Old Town, and enjoy some time of exploration and souvenir shopping at Plaza de Espana. This large public square is dominated by a large monument built to celebrate the centenary of the 1812 Constitution.

Cape of Trafalgar, Lighthouse, Coast scenery

Next, your tour along the Coast of Light continues to the historic Cape of Trafalgar. In one of the most decisive naval battles in history which took place in 1805, a British fleet under Admiral Lord Nelson defeated Napoleon's combined French and Spanish fleet at the so-called Battle of Trafalgar, right of the cost of the cape. You will make a short stop here to learn about the Battle that took place here, see the famous lighthouse from afar and capture some beautiful photos of the Coast scenery.

Vejer de Frontera, Convento de las Concepcionistas

Your last stop of the day will be the Andalusian hilltop town of Vejer de Frontera. This beautiful town occupies a low hill overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar and it is surrounded by orchards and orange groves. Escorted by your tour guide, you will explore the old city center including the vibrant hub Plaza de Espana, known for its elaborate 20th century, Seville-tiled fountain, beautiful white washed Town Hall, cafes, shops and palm trees. While in Vejer, you will also get to visit the historic Convento de las Concepcionistas which is the current venue of Vejer's Museum of Customs Traditions. This is the only remnant of the original Convent founded in 1552. Inside the church you will see the incredibly beautiful renaissance style doorway, the spherical dome erected on the Chapel and the vaulted crypt of the founders. To the side of the building, you will find one of the most emblematic streets of the city "Arco de las Monjas". Your tour guide will share the fascinating history of the place with you as you explore the site together.

Afterwards, return to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and is specially designed for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair or a scooter. Full time wheelchair users, are kindly requested to contact shoreconcierge@silversea.com <mailto:shoreconcierge@silversea.com> in order to provide further details and determine if the tour is suitable for them. The tour route avoids steps and stairs. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. An accessible vehicle with a wheelchair lift or ramp will be used for transportation. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. A minimum participation of 6 guests is required to operate the excursion at the advertised rate. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

This tour will make guests discover the secrets of the famous sherry land of the province of Cádiz which produces the world-wide known Jerez Wine.

Cadiz & scenic drive to Jerez de la Frontera

Your tour starts with a panoramic drive of the city of Cádiz through the most important monuments and places of the city such as the Constitution Monument and the beautiful Cathedral. Proceed across the old road to Jerez de La Frontera, a town placed only 50 kilometers away from the sea and Cádiz, but with a so different climate that makes possible to cultivate the different types of grape that produce the three main different Sherry varieties. Comfortably from your bus, admire the landscape that changes from dry lands of the coast line to the fertile cultivated ones nearby Jerez.

Wine cellars, sherry tasting & local tapas

Next, visit the cellars or bodegas as they are called. The sherry production houses are located, surprisingly, in the centre of the town of Jerez and are generally associated with an element of anobbery and aristocratic pride even to this day. At the cellars, learn the process to create the original sherry wine from the grape cultivation until the liquor is put into the bottle. Enjoy the sherry tasting (9 different wines) accompanied with the most typical Tapas (Snacks). Afterwards, head directly back to Cádiz and to the ship.

Depart the pier for the approximately 40-minute transfer to Monte Castilo Golf Club. Upon arrival, register at the clubhouse and prepare for your day of golf at one of the best courses in Europe.

18 Holes

All you need to enjoy is in an unforgettable private setting, where the facilities of the Monte Castilo Golf Club satisfies the tastes of the most demanding player.

Course designer, Jack Nicklaus, was the greatest and most charismatic Spanish golfer of all time, and the most honoured at international level. He is considered one of the Ten Top Goulf courses in Spain.

Please note: This golf excursion requires moderate activity and includes green fees, buggy and roundtrip transportation. Proper golf attire is required. Soft or hard spikes are permitted. Course Information: 18 Holes, 6015 yards (5500m), par 72.

Indulge your senses with the exquisite beauty and flavours of Jerez during this scenic, half-day excursion arranged exclusively for Silversea guests.

Depart from the port of Cádiz and be provided a panoramic tour before you leave the city behind and drive approximately 30 minutes to Jerez.

Jerez de la Frontera

The charming Andalusian town of Jerez de la Frontera is well-known for its sherry wine, its origins extending back nearly 3000 years. The production of sherry wine closely follows the regions political history, influenced by the Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Moorish, Spanish and British empires. The Phoenicians originally introduced wine production to this area of Spain. Slowly, with each consecutive political shift in Cadiz, aspects of what would eventually become sherry were introduced. With the Age of Exploration came the exponential growth of Cadiz as a trading port, and a starting point for ships headed to the New World. With this era came a need for a wine that would not spoil during long journeys, thus sherry became a staple for all ships (also expanding its popularity across the world).

Cellars of Bodega Tradicion

Continue the tour with a visit of one of the famous sherry bodegas in Jerez. During this guided tour through the wine cellar, your guide will go into great detail about the history and production of sherry. Bodega Tradicion is the only bodega in Jerez whose production focuses exclusively on the oldest of the wines and brandies.

The Bodega uses the soleras system to produce their Sherry; the wines are then hand-bottled. Sherries produced here will be classified as VOS - vinum optimum signatum - aged for more than 20 years and VORS - vinum optimum rare signatum - wine aged more than 30 years. These categories not only indicate the age of the wines, but their extraordinary quality. The highest quality Amontillado, Oloroso, Palo Cortado and Pedro Ximénez are all produced here.

Joaquin Rivero Collection

View the Bodega's art gallery which contains a selection of paintings from the Joaquin Rivero Collection of Spanish Art. A section of the winery has been carefully restored and will house a permanent exhibition of these major works of art which all visitors will be able to enjoy. The Joaquin Rivero Collection is one of the most important on public display in the whole of Andalusia. It is a private collection and brings together 300 major works by the great masters of Spanish Art from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

All the artistic movements that have characterized Spanish Painting over the centuries are represented as are the great names that have shaped the history of Western Art: Zurbarán, Velazquez, Hiepes, Labrador, Valdés Leal, Goya, Maella, Lucas Velazquez, Madrazo, Lucas Villamil, Carlos de Haes and many others. You will experience a unique journey through Spanish history and its art.

The visit concludes with a delightful tasting of the various sherry's, as an oenologist explains in detail the characteristic of the different sherry's - nose, colour, palate and recommendations how to pair them with food. The wine tasting will be accompanied by a local and traditional snack. Enjoy these specialties accompanied in the background by a flamenco guitar player.

There seems to be nowhere more quintessentially Spanish than Jerez de la Frontera in Andalucía. After you have been immersed in this city's flavours, make your way back to the port in Cadiz.

The charming Andalusian town of Jerez de la Frontera is well-known for its sherry wine, magnificent Spanish horses and flamenco. The town dates back to Moorish times and possesses a charming old town, casco antiguo, with beautiful palm lined squares. The 11th century Moorish fortress, or Alcazaba, has been partially restored.

Board your motor coach at the pier and enjoy a panoramic drive through Cádiz on your way to Jerez, only 30-minutes away.

Jerez de la Frontera

In former times, during the Muslim occupation of Iberia, it was called Xerez or Xeres. Frontera in its name refers to its location on the border between the Moorish and Christian regions of Spain during that period. The name of the famous fortified wine which originated here (although some argue that it originated in Shiraz), is a corruption of the city's Arabic name, which is pronounced Sherish. The enormous offer of culture is enriched only even more with the aromas of the regional cuisine.

Upon arrival, get to know the most interesting sights during a panoramic and guided walk through the old town. Stop at the Plaza del Arenal, this central plaza of the town of Jerez is a favourite spot for photographers.

Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation

Next, re-board your coach for the drive to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation, world-famous for its show, "How the Andalusian Horses Dance". Leave the coach and walk to the horse-riding school, then take your seat for a truly memorable experience. Observe the beautiful, purebred Spanish-Andalusian horses exhibit incredible grace, speed and stamina, and see their experienced riders display wonderful horsemanship skills. The breeding of Cartujana horses is also intimately linked with the development of this Andalusian city, the Horse Fair takes place here; a festival declared of international tourist interest where horses and riders have a clear leading role.

Following your visit, return to your coach and commence the approximate 45-minute drive back to the pier.

In the early 16th century, Cádiz served as a launching point for the journey to the newly discovered lands of America. Later raided by Sir Francis Drake, in the struggle to gain control of trade with the New World, the city managed to withstand a siege by Napoleon's army. In the early 19th century it became the bastion of Spain's anti-monarchist, liberal movement, as a result of which the country's first Constitution was declared here in 1812. Some of the city's 18th century walls still stand and the old, central quarter is famous for its picturesque charm.

Depart the port area on your motor coach for an approximate 1-hour panoramic drive through the city.

Old Town

The old city looks quite Moorish in appearance and is intriguing with narrow cobbled streets opening onto small squares where the golden cupola of the cathedral looms high above long white houses. Get to know the Parque Genoves, one of the major areas of greenery of the town. Between the Parque Genoves and the attractive Caleta Beach you will find the Castillo of Santa Catalina, which is formed by the remains of the old canal that once crossed Cádiz. Pass by the 18th Century Baroque and neo-classical Cathedral. It has a dome of yellow tiles, which forms the chief landmark of the city. See also the old tobacco factory and the Town Hall in the Plaza de San Juan de Dios.

Exit the bus at the Plaza de España, where you will see a fine monument to the first Spanish constitution of 1812.

Flamenco Performance

After a short walk you arrive at the flamenco tavern "La Cava", the setting for tapas and an authentic flamenco performance. This is a traditional tavern with a distinctive flamenco feel to its decoration and furnishings; the design is in wood, glass and wrought iron. Flamenco is the music of Spanish gypsies, influenced by both Western and Moorish sources. Sit back and drink in a traditional performance of its staccato, balletic dances, its haunting ballads and its fiery guitar music.

Experience the splendid beauty and architecture of Seville during a full-day sightseeing excursion to this historic city.

Few cities in Spain can rival the charm of Seville. Carmen, Don Giovanni and the Barber of Seville are just a few among the many artistic works that were inspired by this traditional Andalusian town. Founded by Julius Caesar, Seville later became the capital of the Moorish Empire and the highlight of the Spanish Renaissance.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-mile (120-kilometre) drive to Seville, with a comfort stop made en route. Upon arrival, begin with a sightseeing drive through the city then continue with a walking tour through the historic centre.

Seville, Alcazar

During your guided tour of the Mudejar-styled Reales Alcazares, explore its lavish courts, apartments and gardens. Christian kings erected this palace, modelled after the Alhambra in Granada, in the 14th century to replace the original palace built by Moorish rulers in 1181. Continue to Seville's famed landmark, a 270-foot (81-metre) weathervane tower known as 'La Giralda'. The tower is all that remains of a former mosque. From here, proceed to the Seville Cathedral.

Seville Cathedral

Construction on this magnificent Cathedral started in the early 1400s, and took more than a century to complete. The interior of the Cathedral features splendid works of art, and contains the tombs of the Spanish monarchs and Christopher Columbus. Leaving the Cathedral, proceed for a visit to Seville's Old Jewish Quarter.

Old Quarter

King Fernando III forced Jews to live in this former ghetto, known as 'Barrio de Santa Cruz'. Whitewashed houses line narrow, winding alleys and the walls of picturesque courtyards burst with brilliant flowers. Today, many of the buildings house souvenir shops, art galleries and cafés.

Next, you have approximately 1.5 hours leisure time for shopping and lunch on your own at one of the area's many restaurants before re-boarding your coach for a drive exiting Seville. After passing by Plaza America, a photo stop is made at the Plaza de España, a monumental square built for the 1929 World's Fair Plaza, before returning to the pier.

Explore Cádiz at your leisure during a full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cadiz at your leisure during a half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cadiz at your leisure during a full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cadiz at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Enjoy an amusing walking excursion dedicated to the bicentenary celebrations of 'The Pepa' - the signing of the Spanish constitution in the year 1812. An official guide will give you an overview of the history of the signing during a pleasant stroll through the old town of Cadiz.

Old Town

Leaving from the port of Cadiz towards the Plaza España you will find a monument dedicated to the event. During the tour you will meet two 19th Century "characters" in typical Andalusian style dress - Mr. Ramon Power Giralt (a member of the Spanish Parliament) and Lolita Gaditana. In an amusing and distinctive, anecdotal-style these two characters will describe how people lived during this fascinating era.

The stroll continues through streets, gardens and squares, where you will find other places of interest relating to this epoch, including the Church of Carmen, Plaza de San Antonio, Calle Ancha, and the Plaza de San Francisco. Being the oldest town in Western Europe, Cadiz is a great setting for a walking tour steeped in history and making it one of the most important towns of the 17th and 18th centuries.