Visit the Cathedrals in Salamanca, Spain

Salamanca Spain: Best Things To Do In Two Days

Street scene leading to the New Cathedral in Salamanca, Spain

Looking for the best things to do in Salamanca, Spain? When planning our trip, we had no idea how much we were going to love Salamanca. It definitely was a highlight of our trip to Spain and now ranks as one of our favorite Spanish cities! Here are the top things to do and see in Salamanca.

This vibrant, university town is known as The Golden City, due to its ornate sandstone architecture. Located about a two hour drive northwest of Madrid, Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage City. As you travel through the Spanish country side, you’ll know you’re in for something special when you catch a glimpse of ancient cathedrals towering over an old city wall that was constructed by the Romans back in the twelfth century.

Salamanca is a pedestrian-friendly city, with its major attractions all within walking distance. In addition to stunning architecture, historical sites and one of the most beautiful central plazas in all of Spain, you’ll discover plenty of enticing museums, shops, restaurants, and tapas bars. You can easily enjoy all of Salamanca’s highlights in two days.

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The Best Things To Do In Salamanca, Spain

Enjoy Tapas and People-Watching In The Plaza Mayor

Things to see in Salamanca, Spain: The majestic Plaza Major

Anyone visiting Salamanca must experience the magnificent Plaza Major. This impressive main square is one of the most beautiful in all of Spain, and is the heart of the bustling city. The Plaza Major is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Eighty eight arches along the ground level lead into an arcade that lines the perimeter of the plaza. Within the arcade is an amazing variety of restaurants, tourists shops, jewelry stores, clothing boutiques and ice cream stores. Tables and chairs spill out into the Plaza, making this the perfect place to relax under an umbrella and enjoy some delectable churros with chocolate and hot coffee. (or any other tapas to your liking!)

Built between 1729 and 1755, Plaza Major is comprised of dazzling Baroque architecture. Medallions portraying famous people in Spain’s history are displayed between each of the arches. The images include Spanish Royalty, military heroes and conquerors, and Spanish intellectuals connected with the University. Images of Christopher Columbus and St Teresa are among them.

The Plaza Major, like Salamanca itself, truly comes alive after dark. University students hanging out with their friends mingle among families with young children running around and elderly residents gathering to swap stories. Live music can often be heard in the evening.

Top things to see in Salamanca, Spain: The Plaza Major illuminated at night

Wander Through The Mercado Central: Salamanca’s Central Market

Things to see in Salamanca: statue of the Alberca Woman in front of the Central Market building
Building where the Central Market is located, across from the Alberca Woman Statue

Salamanca’s Central Market is located in a historic nineteenth century building just outside of the eastern entrance to the Plaza Major. This authentic market is the perfect spot to pick up fixings for a picnic, grab a snack, or select a lovely bottle of Spanish wine. It’s definitely worth taking a walk through the interior to enjoy the atmosphere even if you aren’t looking to purchase food.

Fruit Stand inside Salamanca's Central Market
Fruit Stand inside Salamanca’s Central Market

The market is filled with various food stands, showcasing a wide array of local seafood, hams and sausages, cheeses, fruits and vegetables, bread, and pastries. The vendors were quite friendly and happy to engage with us, showing great patience for our beginner’s level Spanish. Many also offered us the chance to sample their wares.

Salamanca's Central Market illuminated at dusk
Exterior of Salamanca’s Central Market At Dusk

Be Amazed By Salamanca’s Catedral Nueva: The New Cathedral

Best things to see in Salamanca, Spain: The New Cathedral
The dome on Salamanca’s New Cathedral towers over the city

Salamanca’s soaring New Cathedral is the tallest building in the city. It’s actually connected to the Old Cathedral, built in the 12th century. The New Cathedral was added on when more people were attracted to Salamanca due to its dynamic University. The New Cathedral’s impressive dome can be seen from many vantage points around Salamanca, including a terrific view on the far side of the River Tormes.

Located in the south end of the old town, construction of the New Cathedral began in 1513 and was completed in 1733. As a result, the exterior of the cathedral is typical Gothic architecture with its pointed arches, stained glass windows and ornate decoration, and while the interior is more of a Baroque style.

One of the ornate entrances to the New Cathedral in Salamanca, Spain
One of the entrances to Salamanca’s New Cathedral

The new cathedral underwent restoration work in 1992. The detailed stonework is remarkable! The cathedral builder added some modern images to the façade. See if you can spot a dragon eating an ice cream cone, a bull, a floating astronaut, a lynx, a crayfish and a rabbit.

The interior of the New Cathedral is truly breathtaking. There are hundreds of religious artifacts, stained glass windows, statues and paintings. We joined a Spanish guided tour. While we couldn’t understand a lot of the discussion, the small entry fee was totally worth it in order to gain access to a number of different rooms inside the Cathedral.

Marvel At Salamanca’s Catedral Vieja: The Old Cathedral

Walking toward the Old Cathedral in Salamanca, Spain
Salamanca’s Old Cathedral

Salamanca’s Old Cathedral was completed in the 14th century. Inside you’ll find religious paintings and art, chapels, and several tombs.

It’s signature display is an exquisite 15th century altarpiece. The 53 panels painted by Nicholas of Florence show scenes from the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. Don’t miss the powerful Final Judgment panel, or the nearby 12th century statue of the Virgin.

Special highlights of the Old Cathedral include the Ieronimus Tower and the Torre del Gallo.

Climb the Ieronimus Tower

Climb up inside the Ieronimus Tower for panoramic views of Salamanca, Spain
View of Salamanca

Head to the Old Cathedral’s Ieronimus Tower for a tour you won’t soon forget. A series of staircases lead through the interior balconies of both the Old and New Cathedrals. You’ll pass through a number of rooms with religious displays and artifacts, including the dungeon room and the vault room located in the heart of the Bell Tower.

You’ll emerge onto the exterior balconies for jaw-dropping views of the city. The exit leads out to the Mocha Tower Terrace, where the Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral are joined.

A metal walk way between the two cathedrals brings you close to the Torre del Gallo, or Tower of the Rooster, named for the weathervane that sits on its top. The distinctive ribbed cupola reflects Byzantine influences.

The small entrance fee is well worth the dramatic, panoramic views. You can visit during the daytime hours, or sign up for a night time tour.

View from the Ieronimus Tower: the Torre Del Gollo in Salamanca, Spain
Torre Del Gallo

Be Captivated by Casa de las Conchas: The House of Shells

Things to do in Salamanca, Spain: Visit the House Of Shells!

The House of Shells is one of the most memorable buildings in Salamanca. It gets its name from the 300 scallop shells decorating its façade. The scallop shell is the symbol of the Camino de Santiago Compostela, (The Way of Saint James) the sacred pilgrimage across northwestern Spain. One of the routes, called the Silver Way, begins in Sevilla and and runs through Salamanca.

Scallop shells adorn the Casa de las Conchas in Salamanca, Spain

Completed in 1517, The House of Shells was built by Rodrigo Arias de Maldonado, a knight of the Order of Santiago Compostela and a Professor in the University of Salamanca. Originally Maldonado’s palace, the building now houses the public library and and information office.

Above the entrance is the coat of arms of the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II.

Things to do in Salamanca Spain: Don't miss the House of Shells!
Coat of arms of the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II.

You can walk through the building to view the court yard in the center of the house, and the gargoyles along the roof, a common feature of Gothic architecture. Admission is free.

Sea Shell chandelier inside the House of Shells in Salamanca, Spain
Scallop shell chandelier inside the Casa de las Conchas

Admire La ClerecĂ­a

La ClerecĂ­a, one of the most beautiful churches in Salamanca, Spain

Be sure to take a moment to admire the beautiful façade and bell towers of La Clerica, another one of Salamanca’s treasures. This gorgeous church is located right across the street from The House of Shells. It’s also known as Scala Coeli, Latin for “Stairway To Heaven.”

La Clerica was built in the early 1700’s. At that time, it was named the Royal College of the Company of Jesus. It functioned as a church, a school taught by Jesuits, and a monastery.

It is now headquarters of Salamanca Pontificia University. Guided tours in Spanish offer access to the interior of the church and the Catholic University.

If you have time, you can climb up inside the church towers for more incredible views of the city. It’s worth the work of the 166 steps it takes to get there! The two bell towers are connected, making it easy to walk between them.

There is a small admission fee for adults to climb the tower. Children under 12 can enter for free.

Reflect In The Garden Of Calixto And Melibea

After touring the Cathedrals, this secluded garden is the perfect place to find relax and savor some peace and quiet. There are numerous trees that provide shade from the sun, quiet benches, and paths for strolling. You’ll discover a fountain, a well, grapevines overhead and plenty of lovely flowers to enjoy.

Enjoy the lovely flowers inside the romantic Garden of Calixto and Melibea
In the Garden of Calixto and Melibea

The garden is named for Calixto and Melibea, the young lovers from the 15th century novel, La Celestina. A statue of Celestina, the witch who assists Calixto in winning Melibea’s affection, is located near the garden’s entrance.

Statue at the entrance to The Garden Of Calixto and Melibea in Salamanca, Spain
A statue of Celestina

The romance between Calixto and Melibea led to the garden becoming a meeting place for lovers. It is tradition for couples to hang padlocks on the garden well as a symbol of their eternal love.

Couples hang padlocks on the well in the Garden of Calixto and Melibea as a sign of their everlasting love
Couples hang padlocks on the well in the Garden of Calixto and Melibea as a sign of their everlasting love

Located on top of the old wall of Salamanca, the garden opens up to panoramic views of Salamanca and the River Tormes. This romantic garden is to the perfect spot to watch the sunset!

View of Salamanca's ancient wall, from the Garden of Calixto and Melibea
View of Salamanca’s ancient wall, from the Garden of Calixto and Melibea

Visit Casa Lis:  The Museo Art Nouveau 

The Casa Lis Art Museum in Salamanca, Spain
Casa Lis Museum Of Art

Just below the old wall of the Garden of Calixto and Melibea is the Casa Lis Museum of Art. Originally a mansion built for a wealthy businessman during the nineteenth century, Casa Lis is easily recognizable due to its beautiful, green stained glass windows.

The Museum’s exhibits range from the nineteenth century through World War II. The extensive collections includes paintings, bronze statues, ceramics and art deco pieces. It also features a large collection of porcelain dolls. (some of them are rather scary looking!)

Casa Lis also houses a café and gift shop. Take note that photographs are not allowed inside the museum. Visiting hours are from 11 am through 7:00 pm seven days a week. At the time of our visit, the entry fee was five euros. Check the Casa Lis website for special events and evening tours.

Entrance to the Casa Lis Art Museum in the evening, in Salamanca,Spain
Entrance to the Casa Lis Art Museum

Do Not Miss The Covento de San Esteban

Things to see in Salamanca, Spain: The Convent of Saint Stephan

Located just down the hill from the Cathedral, the Convent of Saint Stephan is one of Salamanca’s most impressive churches. It features has an amazing façade decorated with intricate carvings. The central motif shows the stoning of Saint Stephan, Salamanca’s first martyr.

The Stoning of Saint Stephan motif in the façade of The Convent of Saint Stephan, Salamanca, Spain
The Stoning of Saint Stephan

The Convent is said to have housed Christopher Columbus as he was promoting his idea of reaching the Indies by sailing west. Winning the support of the Dominicans within the Convent made it easier for Columbus to gain the approval of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella.

Inside of the convent is an elaborate church with a beautiful altarpiece and intimate cloisters. There’s also a museum dedicated to the Dominicans. You can climb to the terrace above the façade for some great views of the city. You’ll likely spot a few stork nests as well. Check on the times that the terrace is open: hours tend to be clustered around noon and again at 7 pm. There is a small entry fee.

Statue of Christopher Columbus outside of the Convent of Saint Stephan, in Salamanca, Spain
Statue of Christopher Columbus, outside the Convent of Saint Stephan

Stroll Across The Roman Bridge

Things to do in Salamanca Spain: Stroll across the Roman Bridge

No visit to Salamanca is complete without taking a stroll over the Roman Bridge. This pedestrian bridge is a strong reminder of Salamanca’s Roman past. Its 26 arches span the River Tormes. The exact date of the construction is not known, but it is believed that the Emperor Augustus ordered the bridge to be built in the year 27 BC.

Most likely built by Celtic slaves, the Roman Bridge was along the Via de la Plata, (the Silver Way) that travelers used to get from Merida in the south of Spain to Astorga in the north. During the Roman Empire, this ancient path was used to carry gold and copper to the Mediterranean Sea and eventually transported to Rome by boat. The bridge was reinforced with heavy support pillars in order to accommodate chariots with heavy loads. Much of the bridge was rebuilt during the 18th century.

Cross the Roman Bridge in Salamanca, Spain, for a view of the River Tormes
View of the River Tormes

I shot this photo in the middle of Salamanca’s dry season. We were told the river is much wider during the rainy season.

The short walk over the bridge is worth it for the incredible view of the city of Salamanca. There’s a beautiful park on the far side with picnic tables and access to a bike trail. The view is even more magical at night, when the city and the dome atop the New Cathedral is lit up.

Crossing Salamanca's Roman Bridge

Be sure to check out the ancient Iberian statue of a boar on the north side of the bridge. This Celtic sculpture predates the bridge and was moved to Salamanca in the 1300’s.

the Iberian boar sculpture located on the north side of the Roman Bridge in Salamanca, Spain

In 1834, the provincial governor ordered the statue to be thrown into the river, mistakenly believing that King Charles I had brought the statue to the bridge. The boar broke into pieces. Its body parts were later retrieved and and placed back together, although it is missing its head.

Explore The Universidad de Salamanca.

University of Salamanca, Spain

Founded in 1218, the University of Salamanca is the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in all of Europe. This prestigious university was a key intellectual center during the 15th and 16th centuries. Here, Christopher Columbus went before the University board to argue his case for traveling across the ocean in 1492. The University continues to attract thousands of international students to Salamanca each year.

You’ll be captivated by the façade at the University’s main entrance: a stunning tapestry in sandstone, covered with religious scenes, coats of arms, and images from myths and legends. Look for the Medallion of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.

Medallion of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, on the entrance façade to the University of Salamanca
Medallion of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.

Spend some time looking for the facade’s famous frog. It took us quite a while to spot it, but finding the frog without help is guaranteed to bring good luck! Spoiler alert: the frog sits atop a human skull. The frog is a symbol of lust: University students were told they would be choosing death if they chose lust over learning.

Some of the walls within the University are covered with a form of graffiti called Vitor, which means victory. Dating back to the 14th century, students have a celebration at the end of each term to celebrate the victory of learning over ignorance. The top ranking student adds his initials to the wall, traditionally painted in the blood of a bull.

The University of Salamanca is home to the oldest University library in Europe. It can be found on the Escuelas Mayores’ upper cloister. While the library is not open to visitors, it’s worth it to walk up to the entrance and look inside to see the grand interior and some of the intricately carved, old wooden bookshelves .

The  Patio de Escuelas is a beautiful, inner courtyard with many side galleries and beautiful cloisters. It separates the University’s graduate school from its undergraduate campus. The top attraction is the small room opposite the entrance that houses the 15th century ceiling mural, Cielo de Salamanca.

The inner courtyard, the  Patio de Escuelas, at the University of Salamanca
 Patio de Escuelas

Marvel At The Cielo de Salamanca

Cielo de Salamanca (The Sky Over Salamanca) is an impressive, huge mural depicting the sky with astronomical and astrological features.

The artist, Fernando Gallego, began painting the vaulted ceiling in the University’s library around the year 1474. A mixture of science and myth, his artwork portrays the constellations and planets that were known at that time.

About one third of the original painting remains today and has been restored by the University. It contains beautiful images of the Sun, the planet Mercury, and fourteen constellations that make up the summer sky.

Poster depicting the Cielo de Salamanca painting over Salamanca's Plaza Major
Poster combining the Cielo de Salamanca over the Plaza Major

Photos are not allowed in the Cielo de Salamanca exhibit. My photo above is from a poster that superimposes the painting above the Plaza Major. The poster will give you an idea of what the real painting looks like. (although it can’t convey the sense of awe you’ll feel as you view this masterpiece painted over 500 years ago!)

Entry to The Cielo de Salamanca exhibit is free.

Kick Back And Enjoy Some People Watching!

Above all, be sure to set time aside to wander the streets and soak in the laid-back vibe that is Salamanca. While most of the attractions could be fit into one hectic day, you’d miss out on the city’s charm. There are plenty of benches and outside tables to simply relax and observe the locals going about their day.

Nuns walking through the streets of Salamanca, Spain

Places To Eat In Salamanca, Spain

Salamanca is home to scores of restaurants, cafĂ©s and bars. The province of Salamanca is home to the black Iberian pig. The wonderful flavor of Iberian ham (jamon) chorizo and bacon comes from the pigs’ diet of acorns. Be sure to indulge during your stay!

El Huerto de Doña Deseada

View of an entrance to Salamanca's New Cathedral from the outside tables at the El Huerto de Doña Deseada  Restaurant
View from the terrace at El Huerto de Doña Deseada

El Huerto de Doña Deseada is known for its traditional roots and organic ingredients. Popular menu items include steak tartare, Iberian jamón, grilled octopus, and red tuna sashimi.

The name of the restaurant is a tribute to Doña Deseada, a 15th century street woman who retained her beauty while raising her many children during times of hardship.

The interior of the restaurant is very inviting, with elegant emerald velvet chairs and beautiful wood floors. However, we were drawn to the outside terrace for its lovely view of the New Cathedral. (The view is even more incredible after dark when the New Cathedral is fully illuminated)

We stopped in for tapas. Our waiter was incredibly attentive, spending a great deal of time going over the menu with us.

David chose the  Turbot with lemon cream, potatoes and seaweed vinaigrette. I ordered the carabinero carpaccio: two incredibly delicious King prawns. The plate presentation was absolutely gorgeous, and the food was so good we regretted not being hungry enough to order full entrees.

The highlight of the experience was our incredibly fabulous dessert: The Mokkacccino is plethora of decadent chocolate, orange sorbet and dollops of mocha cream. Far and away one of the best desserts we’ve ever had!

Mokkaccino dessert at El Huerto de Dóna Deseada González Restaurant in Slamanca, Spain
Mokkaccino Dessert

Located close to the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea, restaurant hours at the time of our visit were from 1:30 to 3:30 pm., and 8:30 to 10:30 pm.

El MesĂłn de Gonzalo

Outside terrace at the El MesĂłn de Gonzalo Restaurant in Salamanca, Spain
Terrace of the El MesĂłn de Gonzalo Restaurant prior to opening

We were eager to try El MesĂłn de Gonzalo, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the historic center of Salamanca. The menu blends traditional Spanish cuisine with modern techniques and flavors. The Chef also prepares a variety of vegetarian dishes, for those who don’t wish to partake in the meat-heavy menus so prevalent in town. El MesĂłn de Gonzalo also features an extensive wine list, both Spanish and international wines.

Like many restaurants in Salamanca, El MesĂłn de Gonzalo didn’t open for lunch until 1:00. We were famished before then, so their helpful staff directed us to their second establishment, Tapas Gonzola Restaurante, located in The Plaza Major. The tapas restaurant is open from 9:00 am until midnight, seven days a week!

Enjoying tapas in the Plaza Major, Salamanca, Spain
Patatas Bravas, ham croquettes and a calamari sandwich

We were perfectly content to relax on the Plaza Major and engage in more people-watching. We enjoyed ham croquettes and a calamari sandwich, along with patatas bravas, which are potatoes in an aioli sauce. It went well with a glass of Cava, Spain’s sparkling wine.

Casa Paca

The Casa Paca Restaurante is one of the best places to eat in Salamanca, Spain

Casa Paca was one of our favorite restaurants during our two day visit. This family run restaurant has been serving traditional Spanish cuisine for more than fifty years.

They are famous for their freshly made tapas and meats a la volcánica, or cooked on the wood fired grill. The menu features Iberian acorn-fed ham and selection of sausages, traditional dishes such as roasted young goat and suckling pig, plus a diverse selection of fish and salads.

We knew we were in the right place when we walked in to see local patrons enjoying lunch at outdoor tables, inside seating, and at the bar. We thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.

Our waiter clearly appreciated our attempts to order and converse in Spanish, so try out a few Spanish phrases if you can!

At the time of our visit, Casa Paca was open for lunch from 2:00 -4:30, and open again for dinner from 9:00 – 11:30 pm. Craving a little something earlier in the evening? The bar is open from 11:00 am until midnight seven days a week. It’s the perfect place for some tapas and a cocktail. In fact, some of the tapas were provided “free” with drinks.

Located just one block away from the Plaza Major, Casa Paca is wildy popular, especially during weekend evenings. Be sure to make an advance reservation on the Casa Paca Restaurante website.

Santa Gloria Coffee & Bakery

Outside of the Santa Gloria coffee and bakery shop in Salamanca, Spain
Street musicians play across from SantaGloria’s outside tables

Looking for a great place to relax outside and enjoy a great cup of coffee? Head straight for SantaGloria Coffee & Bakery, found at Plaza Del Corrillo,19.

We happened to be walking by the bakery when the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread drew us in. Santa Gloria specializes in coffees, smoothies, frappés and pastries, in addition to their fabulous bread. Quiche, empanadas, salads, and tortillas are also available.

Servers take orders at the counter, and then give you your order on a tray. The interior of the shop had a warm, cozy atmosphere, with a few patrons taking advantage of the free internet service. We opted for an outside table under an umbrella, where we were entertained by musicians across the street.

I thoroughly enjoyed my coffee, made from freshly ground beans. My chilled fruit smoothie was refreshing, along with a delicious piece of rye bread toast. David ordered a wonderful, rich piece of carrot cake. And a generous piece it was!

Enjoy smoothies and coffee at SantaGloria Coffee & Bakery in Salamanca, Spain
A refreshing treat from SantaGloira Coffee & Bakery

A’Taranetella Ristorante Italiano

The A'Tarantella Pizzeria in Salamanca, Spain

We’re recommending a pizza place instead of a Spanish tapas bar? Crazy, I know. We actually did not plan on eating here, but the wood-fired pizza at A”Tarentella was absolutely amazing.

We had wandered up to the Plaza Major around 9:30 pm on a Friday night, thinking we’d walk right into a restaurant that had been recommended to us. We were amazed by the crowd and activity: virtually every restaurant and bar was overflowing with people. Eating in Spain is a social event! The restaurant we had in mind was completely booked for the night, and for the following night as well. Lesson learned: make a reservation ahead of time if you have your heart set on a particular establishment.

Relaxing on the terrace of A'Tarantella Ristorante in Salamanca, Spain

We were starving by this time, and plopped into the nearest open table that we spotted. It just so happened to be on the terrace of A’Tarantella Ristorante Italiano. There was indoor seating available as well, which looked perfect for anyone in search of a quiet, romantic spot. But we love the camaraderie of dining in the street with throngs of others.

Located just steps away from the Plaza Major, A’Tarantella offers lasagna and other pasta dishes, salads and desserts in addition to their incredible pizza.

Best places to eat in Salamanca Spain: A'Tarentella Pizzeria

Other restaurants that were highly recommended to us include ConSentido, a Michelin Star restaurant that specializes in meats from the region, MĂ©son Cervantes, a favorite student hangout located on the Plaza Major that features tapas, paella, and charcuterie, and Restaurant Salam, which offers a diverse mix of Mediterranean and fusion dishes.

Where To Stay In Salamanca

There are a wide variety of accommodations available in Salamanca. You’ll find great places to stay at all budget levels. We choose to stay within the old city in order to avoid a long walk from a hotel on the outskirts of town.

Upscale Accommodations: The Grand Hotel Don Gregorio

David and I typically pass on luxury accommodations in favor of spending more on activities and great food. However, the Don Gregorio’s local character and location in the heart of Salamanca’s historic district helped convince us to splurge. For the first time ever we booked a five star hotel. We were thrilled with our experience!

The Don Gregorio Hotel is a renovated palace that was built in the fifteenth century. This elegant boutique hotel has 17 rooms and suites. It’s relatively plain exterior was in great contrast to its exquisite interior.

The staff was welcoming and friendly, and we enjoyed the finer touches, such as a welcome note with a plate of cookies and truffles. Our room had an incredible view of the Convent of Saint Stephan.

Rooms are furnished with king-sized beds, espresso machines and gorgeous oak flooring. Our bathroom was large, with a rain shower, jet tub, heated floor, bath robes and slippers and luxury products from London.

The public areas are furnished with antiques and lovely medieval tapestries. The hotel’s restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star. You’ll find Spanish, Mexican and Asian fusion cuisine on the menu. Guests can also enjoy a more informal menu in the Lounge Bar.

Lobby in the Hotel Don Gregorio in Salamanca, Spain
Lobby in the Hotel Don Gregorio

The hotel has a luxury spa exclusively for its guests. Reservations are required for a one hour time slot. No one other than your party will be able to use the spa during that time. We relaxed in the spa during the hottest part of the afternoon, when the sun beats down and many bars and restaurants are closed.

The neon-lit spa is designed like a Turkish bath. It features a huge jet tub with a waterfall shower, a steam room, and heated recliners. This luxurious experience was definitely worth the 25 euros cost.

Best of all, the Don Gregorio is in easy walking distance of all of the major attractions, including the Plaza Major, the New and Old Cathedrals, Clerecia Towers, the House of Shells, and the Casa Lis Museum. The hotel is directly opposite the Convent of Saint Stephan.

Book your unforgettable stay at The Grand Hotel Don Gregorio here!

Mid -Range Accommodations

Find mid-range accommodations in Salamanca here.

Budget Friendly Accommodations:

Search for Salamanca’s budget-friendly accommodations here.

Tours In Salamanca, Spain

Salamanca Like A Local: Customized Private Tour: Join up with a local guide for a customized walk to get oriented, see landmarks, and find the cafés and restaurants that appeal to you.

Bicycle Tour of Salamanca :Here’s a great way to get to all of Salamanca’s main attractions! Your guide will share the rich history and culture of the city as your small group pedals around town.

Salamanca Evening Walking Tour Bilingual: Salamanca is magical at night! Walk through the illuminated streets as your guide shares facts, tales, and legends of this historical town.

What To Pack for Salamanca

Here are a few suggestions for items that will help make your trip to Salamanca, Spain hassle-free:

USU to Europe Adapter Set : You’ll need adapters in Spain in order to charge all of your devices.

TSA Approved Luggage Locks: A must for any international traveler. TSA agents have a universal master key that fits into the bottom of these approved locks. Agents can get into your luggage for inspection without having to break your lock or cut into your suitcase in order to do it. The lock can deter thieves from rooting around in your suitcase, whether in the airport, on a bus or in your hotel room.

Packing Cubes: These handy zip containers organize your belongings and fit right inside your suitcase, keeping your clothes compressed and wrinkle-free. The cubes easily transfer to your hotel’s dresser drawer, no unpacking necessary!

Comfortable Walking Sandals: You’ll definitely spend time walking in Salamanca! These comfortable Megnya sandals have great arch support so your feet won’t get tired.

How To Get To Salamanca, Spain

The closest major airport is Madrid-Barajas airport. While Salamanca does have a small airport, it only services national flights.

You can get a bus to Salamanca right at the airport, making this an easy travel option. The ride takes about two hours and 45 minutes. Busses run from 9 am to 11:15pm on weekdays and between 1pm and 9:15pm on weekends. Visit Avanza Bus for time tables and booking.

If you prefer to take a train, you must use the metro system or pay a taxi to get to the ChamartĂ­n station. See www.renfe.com for time tables and bookings.

Enjoy your trip to Salamanca, Spain!

Enjoy your visit experiencing all of the best things to do in Salamanca, Spain. Please leave a comment below and let me know which one intrigues you the most!

Things to do in Salamanca: Enjoy tapas and people watching in the Plaza Major
Enjoying Cava and tapas along The Plaza Major

Looking for another exciting city near Salamanca? Check out our post: Segovia: A Must-Do Day Trip From Madrid!

The Roman Aqueduct in Segovia, Spain
The Roman Aqueduct in Segovia, Spain

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    20 Comments

      1. I truly hope you make it one day, Cynthia. Between the beautiful architecture and the sense of ancient history, we loved Salamanca!

    1. One of my favorite things to do when I travel internationally is to check out the local markets. Salamanca’s Central Market would be high on my list. Also, people watching!

      1. We loved Salamanca’s Central Market! We spent at least an hour in there, wandering through and talking with the vendors. They had some fascinating stories to tell!

    2. Wonderful ideas of what to do in Salmanca, Spain! Made me miss my traveling days so much and inspired me for the future! I loved Spain, but never visited Salamanca. Now I know that I must put it at the top of my to-visit list! 🙂

      1. We love Spain as well! I actually hadn’t heard of Salamanca before our last trip. We booked there on a whim, as it was along the itinerary that we were following. We were so thrilled to discover this town!

    3. Salamanca looks like a beautiful city! The architecture is stunning. And your food pictures look amazing, especially that pizza. I’d never even heard of this city, but now I want to go!

      1. You’re going to love Spain! I encourage you to spend at least one night in Salamanca if you are anywhere near Madrid.

    4. Wow! Wow! Wow! Salamanca Spain looks so beautiful! This two day list is incredible and makes us want to book a trip right away!

    5. I would love a trip abroad sometime soon, but flights have gotten so expensive. My husband and I are going away places within the country, but outside? Not for the foreseeable the way things are going. I do love Spain, though. My family have a flat there!

      1. Flights definitely are expensive right now. We definitely take advantage of credit cards with travel rewards.

    6. I love all the pictures that you shared! Salamanca Spain looks like a beautiful place to visit. We love to see new places and trying the new foods is our favorite part! Thanks for sharing your beautiful trip.

      1. We really loved our time in Salamanca. Hopefully it will be on one of your future itineraries!

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