Salamanca on a Budget: Historic Sights & Culture

Discover Salamanca's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Salamanca, Spain is a stunning and historic city that is perfect for those travelling on a limited budget. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options available, as well as budget-friendly dining options serving up delicious local cuisine. Visitors can explore the city's breathtaking architecture, such as the Gothic-style Salamanca Cathedral and the University of Salamanca, which dates back to the 13th century.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Sights

  • Check into Hotel Amefa, a cozy budget hotel in the heart of historic Salamanca.
  • Wander through the Plaza Mayor, Salamanca's lively central square with its stunning baroque architecture.
  • Visit the 13th-century Salamanca Cathedral and marvel at the intricate stone carvings and paintings.
  • Stroll through the Salamanca University, the oldest university in Spain, and take a look at the stunning frescoes in the Library of Francisco de Vitoria.
  • Take a break in the adjacent Botanical Gardens, a serene oasis in the midst of the city.
  • Cap off the day by sampling local tapas at bustling Bar Charrito, a hole-in-the-wall joint with a great selection and friendly service.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day with a trip to the Museum of Art Nouveau and Art Deco Casa Lis, a beautifully restored modernist mansion filled with decorative art.
  • Visit the Convento de San Esteban, a 16th-century Dominican monastery with a fascinating history and stunning architecture.
  • Check out the Roman Bridge, a picturesque and historic site on the outskirts of the city, and enjoy a scenic walk in the surrounding countryside.
  • Learn about the city's history at the Salamanca History Museum, which has interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.
  • Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at La Tahona de la Abuela, a cozy family restaurant with delicious homemade cuisine.
  • End the day at the Plaza del Corrillo, a lively square with plenty of bars and cafés to choose from for a glass of local wine or a refreshing beer.
  • Note: Don't forget to try some of the local cheese and ham, also the "Huevos Rotos" and "Hornazo" traditional plates from Salamanca.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Salamanca by plane is to fly into Madrid-Barajas Airport and then take a train or bus to Salamanca. The journey from Madrid to Salamanca takes approximately 2.5-3 hours by train or 2 hours by bus.

Car

Driving to Salamanca is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. The city is located on the A-62 motorway, which connects Madrid and Portugal. You can rent a car at any major airport or city in Spain. Make sure to have a good GPS system or a map with you to avoid getting lost.

Train

Salamanca is well-connected by trains from major cities in Spain, such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla. The main train station in Salamanca is called Estación de Salamanca, located in the city center. You can check train schedules and book tickets on the official website of RENFE.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Salamanca by boat, as the city is located inland. However, if you are traveling from Portugal, you can take a ferry from Lisbon to Santander and then get a train or bus to Salamanca. The journey time is around 6-8 hours depending on the connections.

Bus

Taking a bus is one of the most affordable ways to get to Salamanca from other parts of Spain. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, including ALSA and Avanza. You can book your ticket online or at the bus station. The journey time is around 2-4 hours depending on the departure point.

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