What are the best things to do in Salamanca?

Are you taking a road trip to Spain? What a wonderful idea! There’s so much to see and visit. So many romantic strolls along pedestrian streets, majestic cathedrals, pretty spots and divine restaurants. If you have the chance to stop off in the north-west of the country, then Salamanca is a must. It’s true that you don’t hear much about it when it comes to tourism. Unlike Barcelona, Seville and, of course, Madrid. But Salamanca is renowned for its splendid Plateresque buildings. There are plenty of shops, cafés and cosy terraces where you can enjoy a delicious homemade speciality in the afternoon. Shall we tell you a little more? Vamos!

What to do in Salamanca

1. Visit the historic centre

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic

Description: Very often, when we visit a city, we tend to rush to the museums, the cathedrals and all the famous monuments. This time, we suggest you don’t do it that way. You’re on holiday, of course, to enrich your general knowledge, take some pretty photos, spend time with your family… But above all, you want to relax and make the most of your stay. That’s why the best first activity is undoubtedly a visit to the historic centre of Salamanca. And why is that? The Plaza Mayor is one of the most beautiful squares in the whole of Europe. It is literally the living heart of the city: all the events take place there, the tourist office will be able to give you all the information you need for your future outings, the little shops in the vicinity are very nice, and the restaurants are among the best in the whole city. A wonderful day out! And don’t forget to marvel at the sculpted medallions in the shape of Miguel de Cervantes, author of the famous “Don Quixote de la Mancha”.

2. The Cathedrals

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: The city of Salamanca is unique in that it is actually made up of two cathedrals, one next to the other, like two sisters. You’ll find them on Calle Benedicto XVI: the New Cathedral, built in Gothic style in 1513, and the Old Cathedral, dating from the 12th century. Both buildings have been listed as Historic Monuments since 1887 and UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1988. They are the pride of the town’s inhabitants. Open every day from 10am to 6pm for a reasonable price, you can visit both buildings virtually at the same time, as they form part of the same ensemble. You can enter the old cathedral from inside the new one. Within its walls, a medieval and electric atmosphere reigns, and you’ll be amazed as you progress through the visit. Be sure to visit the permanent exhibition called “Leronimus”, which provides access to the highest part of both structures.

3. Go hiking

Category: Sporty

Description: Leave the sandals and open-toe shoes behind and slip on your trainers and sportswear. Salamanca is one of the Spanish cities with the most beautiful walks. There’s nothing better than exploring this magnificent corner of Castilla y León on foot, in the heart of nature. There are over a dozen walks to choose from, all with different variations: some are easy to do with the family and not very long, with a pretty opening onto a clearing for a picnic, while others are a little tougher and recommended for experienced sportsmen and women. But don’t worry, this isn’t Koh-lanta either. If we could recommend one in particular, it would undoubtedly be the Laguna de San Marcos. Starting from a car park, it leads to the Plaza Mayor La Alberca, where you can take a short break, but also to a magnificent waterhole, the Laguna de San Marcos. Perfect for taking some great photos!

4. La Clerecía Church

Category: €/Cultural

Description: Take a guided tour of the incredible Church of La Clerecía, located at the Pontifical University of Salamanca. There’s a whole history surrounding this huge building. Dating from the 17th century, it was Queen Margaret of Austria, wife of Philip III, who orchestrated its construction. Baroque in style, it’s typically the kind of place that catches the eye, just by virtue of its sturdy walls, striking design and solid architecture. Once known as the “Colegio Real de la Compañía de Jesús”, the monument is now designated as the seat of the Pontifical University. It is particularly notable for its impressive three-storey façade. Visitors are particularly fond of the small chapels, which feature elaborately decorated sculptures, not to mention the magnificent dome with coats of arms on its corners. In fact, if you want to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings, climb to the top of the Clerecía towers!

5. La Casa de Las Conchas

Category: €€/Cultural/Insolite

Description: For those who have trouble with Spanish (we won’t judge you), the Casa de las Conchas literally means “The house of shells”. This gives you an idea of the type of place you’re about to set foot in, and above all of what you’re going to see. This is a monument built towards the end of the 15th century that does not go unnoticed, with its Gothic style and plateresque features. It is an exhibition and library space decorated with shells, treasures taken directly from the ocean. Around 300 shells adorn the walls of the building! Located on Calle de la Campañía, its interior is unique, with a staircase and coffered ceilings that arouse the curiosity of visitors. Open every day from 9am to 9pm except Sundays, and closing at 2pm on Saturdays, it features many elements of Renaissance and Mudéjar art.

6. Hot-air balloon ride

Category: €€€/Insolite

Description: Many of us had a dream when we were children: to one day climb aboard a hot-air balloon. Well, in Salamanca it’s as easy as taking the bus! Perhaps we’re exaggerating, but taking a hot-air balloon tour of the city to admire its historic centre in particular is perfectly feasible for visitors. What could be better than discovering the area from above? As well as the breathtaking views you’ll have the chance to admire, your guide will be happy to explain everything you need to know about some of the monuments you’ll see from the top of your flying coach. A flight can last a good hour, so you’ll feel very light on the way down. A word of warning: it’s best to book at least 48 hours in advance, to be sure of getting a seat. An unforgettable experience!