Even though huge crowds of Brits visit the country every year, there are still parts of it that haven’t been visited by many travellers from the UK. The country we are talking about is Spain, and the destination is a small city that has been dubbed the “Cuba of Europe”. Spain attracts flocks of Brits every year to resort destinations like Salou, Benidorm and Malaga, as well as city break favourites like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville.

However, there is a tiny city that you might not have heard of. It is full of unique architecture that resembles somewhere like Havana, but it is a short few hours from the UK rather than across the Atlantic Ocean. Cadiz is located on Spain’s south coast on the western side of its southernmost tip. The city is small, but it has left a big impression on those who have experienced it. It is an ancient port city in the Andalucia region, home to plenty of signs of its 16th-century prosperity.

For example, there are more than 100 watchtowers which would have been used at the time. There are also plenty of 18th-century architectural delights, such as the domed cathedral on the waterfront.

Cadiz is a rather small city, home to a population of just over 100,000. One Instagram user called Cadiz the “Cuba of Europe” thanks to its unique architecture and atmosphere. “It feels like you’re an extra on a movie set,” said travel content creator @robadcock.

“Someone described it to me as the Cuba of Europe – and they’re not wrong. My camera roll has never taken such a beating.

“It’s by the sea, so it’s that bit cooler than other cities around it. It’s not an expensive place. It’s the perfect mix of a city and beach break.”

In fact, Cadiz, which is considered Europe’s oldest city, has been compared to Cuba a number of times in the past. Travel and Tour World draws this comparison because of the city’s “colonial charm and cinematic appeal”.

Among the top-rated things to do and see in Cadiz is Torre Tavira, which is the most iconic of the aforementioned watchtowers that are dotted around the city. Here, you will get unparalleled views of the city and the sea from the observation decks.

There is also Playa la Coleta, a stunning harbour beach with golden sands and boats bobbing in the crystal-clear water. Meanwhile, Mercado Central is where you will get local fish and produce, a true taste of the area.

Cadiz Cathedral is also a popular spot for tourists to visit. It features some stand-out elements, such as the tomb of Manuel de Falla and a museum that houses gold and silver.

Park Genoves is a nice place for a relaxing stroll in Cadiz, while other top-rated beaches in the city include Playa de los Caños de Meca and Playa De Santa Maria Del Mar.

Tourists have also praised the “charming” neighbourhood of Le Vina in the Old Town, the Paseo Canalejas overwall walk and the “well-preserved” Castillo de Santa Catalina.

The closest airport to Cadiz is Jerez Airport (XRY), which takes in flights from Jet2, Ryanair and easyJet.