Salamanca 2-Day Itinerary: Spain’s Golden City
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I’m often asked by friends and family how I find less-known destinations. The answer? I scroll around on Google Maps to see what’s nearby. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon Salamanca. Now, Salamanca isn’t totally unheard of, but it is considered more off-the-beaten-path for tourists outside of Europe.
Salamanca is a city in western Spain and the capital of the province of Castile and León. It is situated on the confluence of the Tormes and River Esgueva, where the latter flows into the Douro. Salamanca has a well-deserved reputation as one of Europe's most beautiful cities; due to its architecture, history, location, and climate. It’s home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1218 and known as Spain’s Golden City, the main reason Salamanca caught my attention.
Entrance to the Salamanca Cathedral
The Golden City of Salamanca
After seeing Salamanca, it’s obvious why it’s referred to as Spain’s Golden City. Most of the buildings are built from sandstone making them a gold hue in the daylight but making them really show off at night. Once the sun goes down, Salamanca turns on the lights and the whole city glows. This is why Salamanca is also one of the best-lit cities in Europe.
The old town has cobblestone streets and jaw-dropping architecture that will take your breath away. One of my favorite things about this quaint city is that there’s beauty around every corner and you could spend hours getting lost in the winding streets. There are also many museums and historical sites to visit while you're there, most of which are free or very inexpensive!
You'll also want to check out the Plaza Mayor in the old town, which has a lot of restaurants and cafes where you can eat and drink while enjoying the beautiful architecture around you. It's also a great place to spend an evening, as there are often street performers and musicians performing here, and the entire plaza is lit up!
Overall, Salamanca is a great place to visit, but it is such a small city that you can easily see everything in just one or two days. This makes it ideal for an easy add-on or weekend trip from Madrid, and it’s exactly why my mom and I added it to our Madrid trip in October.
Where is Salamanca located?
Salamanca lies approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) northwest of Madrid, the nation's capital, making it an accessible destination for travelers exploring the heartland of Spain.
Madrid to Salamanca
Getting from Madrid to Salamanca is a relatively easy journey, with several transportation options available. The most convenient way is by train, with frequent high-speed rail services connecting the two cities in under 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a bus or drive, which takes around 2.5 hours.
When my mom and I visited Madrid, we spent our last few days in Salamanca and had such a wonderful time! We took the bus from Madrid to Salamanca because all of the train options were sold out, but we were able to take the high-speed train back to Madrid a few days later. Both were comfortable and easier, but I personally enjoyed the train ride more and it was much faster.
By Train:
Taking the high-speed AVE train is the fastest and most comfortable option. Trains depart from Madrid's Atocha station and arrive at Salamanca's pristine station just outside of the downtown area. Tickets can be booked in advance on the Renfe website or through Omio, with prices starting from around €25 for a one-way journey. Be sure to book your train tickets in advance as seats fill up quickly. Keep in mind that Salamanca is home to a large university so many students travel on this line taking weekend trips.
By Bus:
Buses from Madrid to Salamanca are operated by companies like Avanza and Alsa. Departing from Madrid's Estación Sur de Autobuses, the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Ticket prices are generally lower than trains, starting from around €15 one-way.
By Car:
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, the journey from Madrid to Salamanca takes about 2.5 hours via the A-6 and AP-51 highways. Keep in mind that toll fees may apply on certain stretches of the route. Renting a car can be a convenient option, allowing you to explore Salamanca and its surroundings at your own pace. The route is scenic and there are tons of small towns to explore along the way. I personally love using Discover Cars when I’m in need of a rental car. They make it super easy to book and compare different rental car companies.
Top Tips for the Journey:
Book your train or bus tickets in advance to secure better prices and availability. Get your train tickets here.
If arriving by train or bus, or if you need a taxi while in town, Tu Taxi en Valverdon is amazing! We used them multiple times and had a great experience every time.
If driving, consider stopping at one of the charming towns along the way, such as Ávila, for a break or to explore the area.
Pack snacks and beverages for the journey, as there may be limited options on trains or buses.
Arrive at the station or departure point well in advance to avoid any delays or missed connections.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Madrid to Salamanca is relatively straightforward and offers a chance to appreciate the beautiful Spanish countryside along the way. We saw hot air balloons hovering over a small town in the morning on our train ride back to Madrid and it looked like it was straight out of a storybook!
Where to Stay in Salamanca
While small, Salamanca offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. For those seeking luxury and historic charm, the city offers several exquisite hotels housed in renovated convents, palaces, and noble residences.
In the heart of Salamanca's old town, you'll find charming boutique hotels nestled among the city's iconic sandstone buildings. These intimate properties offer a glimpse into the city's rich history while providing modern amenities and personalized service. The NH Collection Salamanca Palacio de Castellanos, a former 16th-century palace, is a notable example, boasting elegant decor and a prime location near the iconic Plaza Mayor. Other great options include the Grand Hotel Don Gregorio and Salamanca Luxury Plaza. All three of these offer spectacular views of iconic landmarks in Salamanca.
We opted to stay just outside the city at Hacienda Zorita Wine Hotel & Spa and I still dream of this hotel to this day. This stunning property, set within a 14th-century monastery and winery estate, provides a truly unique and luxurious experience. It’s only a 10-15 minute taxi ride from Salamanca city center but worth every single penny. You could spend days on the property alone and be content, I’ve truly never seen a more beautiful, well-thought-out hotel. Aside from pristine, restored, and renovated guest rooms, there’s a vineyard, a spa that’s located in the old water mill that dates back to 780, a buffet breakfast that will have you drooling, and an on-site farm-to-table restaurant that serves up 5-star dishes. I could go on and on about this property but if you take one thing away from this article - stay here!
Salamanca 2-Day Itinerary
As mentioned before, the town of Salamanca is small and while you could cram everything into one day, I highly recommend slowing things down to truly take it all in and enjoy what this town has to offer.
Day 1: Welcome to Salamanca
Arrive in Salamanca by noon and check into your hotel. After dropping off your luggage, head over to Plaza Mayor, possibly the most beautiful square in Spain. Plaza Mayor means Main Plaza in English and you can find these throughout Spain in the center of town. The Plaza Mayor in Salamanca is very ornate and you’ll definitely want to make a return visit at night when the entire plaza is lit up and glowing. Here, you can find tons of shops and restaurants, although a rule of mine is to try to avoid eating at these restaurants as they’re typically very touristy and not very authentic. You can usually find much better options a block or two away.
For lunch, stroll a few blocks away from the plaza to Oroviejo. This restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner and it is the perfect place to get your first taste of Salamanca. We ate here for dinner and it was absolutely delicious! This restaurant has exposed stone walls, an amazing waitstaff, and a chef who highlights the Iberian pig and local ingredients.
After lunch, stroll through the streets admiring the architecture and make stops at Casa de las Conchas, a sandstone building covered in seashells that protrude from the facade, and the University of Salamanca to see if you can spot the frog in the intricate carvings on the building.
Next, walk to one of Salamanca's most important buildings, Monterrey Palace. This palace was built in 1510 by Cardinal Juan de Mendoza and later became home to kings Felipe II and III. Admission is around $10 per person and you can expect to spend about two hours here learning the history and walking the grounds.
Before sunset, walk to the Roman Bridge for spectacular views of the sandstone buildings as they begin to glow in the evening sun. This picturesque old stone bridge was built around 100 A.D. and is a great way to end your first day before heading to dinner.
For dinner try out Corte & Cata where you can sample traditional regional dishes like croquettes, Iberian ham, seafood, and more. Keep in mind that in Spain, many restaurants don’t begin dinner service until 8pm so take your time at lunch and fill up.
Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, Spain
Day 2: Cathedral of Salamanca and Biking
Begin your day at the Cathedral of Salamanca. This unique cathedral is very large and has lots of interesting decorations inside like sculptures made out of wood or stone and paintings by famous artists like Da Vinci and Goya. It’s technically two cathedrals connected with the oldest dating back to the 12th century and the newer one from the 16th century. The architecture is truly amazing and features both Gothic and Baroque architecture. Admission is about $10 per person and even if you don’t go inside, the carvings on the exterior alone are mindblowing.
If you’re like me and love visiting local markets in Europe, check out Salamanca Central Market where you can sample all sorts of local foods and even pick up some items to have your own picnic lunch along the river. If you rather have a traditional sit-down lunch, Isidro Restaurant is a great option.
After lunch, I highly recommend spending some time aimlessly getting lost on the cobblestone streets and exploring local shops. A great activity for the afternoon is a guided bike tour that will take you along the river, giving you new views of the city while your guide shares interesting stories of the history of Salamanca. You will stop at some of the places listed previously, but hearing about them from a local guide will give you a new perspective.
End your last day in Salamanca by having an amazing dinner at Hacienda Zorita’s on-site restaurant, Zorita’s Kitchen. This is the hotel we stayed at but even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth checking out! Arrive a little early to your reservation and have a glass of wine while exploring the property. Trust me, there’s no better way to end your time in Salamanca than at an impeccably renovated 14th-century monastery-turned-boutique property.
Is Salamanca, Spain Worth Visiting?
Salamanca is an absolute gem in the heart of Castile and León, a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. The question of whether it's worth visiting is an emphatic yes! Here are a few key reasons why visiting Salamanca, Spain is worth it and what makes it so unique:
Salamanca's Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The city's golden age during the 16th century left an indelible mark, with stunning Renaissance architecture adorning the sandstone buildings.
As home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Salamanca, the city buzzes with a youthful energy. Students fill the streets, lending a lively atmosphere to the tapas bars, and cafes. The university's famed library, with its ornate ceilings and ancient tomes, is a must-visit.
Salamanca's cuisine is a delectable blend of traditional Castilian fare and modern Spanish flavors. From the mouthwatering jamon ibérico (Iberian ham) to the rich stews and hearty roasts, you’ll be in for a treat.
While Salamanca itself is a treasure trove, its surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. The nearby village of La Alberca, with its traditional stone houses and scenic hiking trails, is a popular day trip destination. Another option is the medieval town of Ciudad Rodrigo and the stunning Arribes del Duero Natural Park are within easy reach.
This destination is a perfect blend of history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Salamanca is an absolute gem that should not be missed! It’s a city that truly captivates the senses, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this 2-day itinerary promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and culture of Salamanca.
Spending 2 days in Salamanca, Spain is one of my fondest trips and I somehow find myself going back to Spain again and again. If you love Spain as much as I do or are planning a trip to Madrid soon, consider spending a few days in the stunning Salamanca!
Happy travels!
-Tess
Looking for more information about destinations in Spain? Check out these articles!
Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!