Ávila Escapades: Walls, Cuisine, and Sweet Treats Galore!
Discover the medieval charm of Ávila, where history comes alive amidst stunning fortified walls.
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Ávila is a captivating Spanish city known for its remarkable medieval walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Steeped in history, visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, and admire magnificent Gothic architecture, notably the stunning Ávila Cathedral. Don't forget to savor the acclaimed local cuisine, including the famous veal from Ávila, for a truly rewarding experience in this enchanting destination.
Travel plan
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- Check into Hotel Palacio de Avila, a medieval gem nestled within the city walls perfect for living out your Game of Thrones fantasies!
- Walk along the formidable walls of Ávila, built to defend against invaders and rogue dragons (not really), and soak in the panoramic views over the city.
- Dive into the fascinating story of Santa Teresa de Jesus at the Convento de Santa Teresa, where her heart (yes, literally) is preserved in a golden reliquary.
- Swing by Los Candiles, a cozy tavern that serves up traditional Castilian fare like roast suckling pig and hearty stews. Warning: You might develop an uncontrollable obsession with their churros con chocolate.
- Indulge in some retail therapy at the bustling Plaza del Mercado Chico, where local artisans peddle an array of handmade crafts and souvenirs.
- End your day with a soul-stirring flamenco performance at El Rincón Flamenco, where the passion and rhythmic footwork will leave you breathless.
- Rise and shine with a scrumptious breakfast at Mesón de la Villa, where fluffy tortilla española and freshly squeezed orange juice reign supreme.
- Step inside the magnificent Catedral de Ávila, a stunning mismatch of architectural styles that took over 300 years to complete. Don't forget to marvel at the mesmerizing stained glass windows!
- Visit the Basilica de San Vicente, a Gothic beauty that houses a legendary relic – the incorrupt body of the martyred Saint Vincent. (Zombies beware!)
- Satiate your hunger with a lunch break at El Almacén, a trendy restaurant hidden within a former paper mill, serving up innovative tapas bursting with local flavors.
- Embark on a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Jardín de los Leones, where centuries-old statues and fragrant flowers lend an air of old-world charm.
- For dinner, try the tantalizing fusion cuisine at Restaurante El Capricho, where daring flavor combinations push the boundaries of culinary wizardry.
- Start your final day with a caffeine kick and scrumptious pastries at Café Restaurante Estación, a charming café located near the train station.
- Immerse yourself in the art of chocolate making at Chocolatería Santocildes, where you can sculpt your own cocoa masterpieces and learn the secrets of traditional Spanish chocolate.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Cloisters of San Francisco, adorned with delicate orange trees and a serene outdoor café perfect for a mid-morning snack break.
- Feast on traditional sweets like yemas de Ávila – a delicious concoction made from egg yolks and sugar – at the famous Confitería 1880. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Climb to the top of the Torreón de Los Guzmanes, an ancient fortress-turned-town hall, for a panoramic view of the city that will leave you awestruck.
- Bid farewell to Ávila with a delectable dinner at Restaurante El Almacén, renowned for its avant-garde take on traditional Spanish desserts. Prepare to have your taste buds transported to cloud nine.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Ávila, Spain by plane is to fly into Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and then take a train to Ávila. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to Madrid Chamartín train station. From there, you can catch a direct train to Ávila. The journey by train takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Car
To reach Ávila, Spain by car, you can take the E-05 motorway from Madrid. The journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on the traffic.
Train
There is no direct train to Ávila, Spain. However, the easiest way to reach Ávila by train is to take a train from Madrid Chamartín train station. Trains from Madrid to Ávila run regularly and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Boat
There is no direct boat connection to Ávila, as it is an inland city. It is not possible to reach Ávila by boat.
Bus
The best way to get to Ávila, Spain by bus is to take a direct bus from Madrid. Buses from Madrid to Ávila depart from Estación Sur de Autobuses. The journey by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.