Salamanca (province) Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Salamanca province in Spain, including tourist attractions, activities, food, accommodation, and transportation options.


Introduction to Salamanca (province)

Salamanca is a province situated in the western part of Castile and Leon region, in Central Spain. Its capital city, also named Salamanca, is famous for its well-preserved Old Town and the prestigious University of Salamanca. Salamanca province is home to many other charming towns and villages, historical landmarks, and natural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Salamanca (province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

University of Salamanca

The University of Salamanca is one of the oldest universities in Spain, founded in 1218. The university’s Renaissance-style building, the Patio de las Escuelas, is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus and the historical faculties, such as the Law and Medicine Schools.

Salamanca Cathedral

The Salamanca Cathedral, also known as the Catedral Nueva, is a grandiose building constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries. Its imposing facade and Gothic interior are awe-inspiring, and the sacristy houses the impressive Altar de los Reyes. Visitors can climb the cathedral tower for panoramic views of the city.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a lively square in the heart of Salamanca, surrounded by impressive arcaded buildings adorned with ornamental motifs. The square has been a popular gathering point for locals and visitors alike since the 18th century. There are many cafes, bars, and restaurants surrounding the plaza, making it an ideal spot to relax and people-watch.

Casa Lis

Casa Lis is a beautiful palace in Art Nouveau style, housing a museum dedicated to decorative arts and glassware. The museum’s collection includes exquisite pieces from the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods, as well as contemporary glass sculptures. There is also a charming cafe inside the palace, with views of the garden and the city.

Natural Attractions of Salamanca (province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sierra de Francia

The Sierra de Francia is a mountain range in the southern part of Salamanca province, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The range is home to many charming villages, such as La Alberca, Mogarraz, and San Martin del Castañar, with well-preserved architecture and rich gastronomy. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Arribes del Duero Natural Park

The Arribes del Duero Natural Park is a stunning landscape of steep cliffs, deep gorges, and lush vegetation, formed by the Duero River. The park is home to many bird and animal species, such as vultures, eagles, otters, and wild boars. Visitors can go on boat trips, hiking trails, or cycling routes, or visit picturesque towns like Miranda do Douro in Portugal.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province offers many hiking and biking routes, catering to different levels of difficulty and interests. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Camino de Santiago: The Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage route that passes through Salamanca province. The route starts in France and ends in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, crossing many beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks.

  • Via de la Plata: The Via de la Plata is another historic route that passes through Salamanca province, linking Seville with Astorga. The route follows the course of a Roman road and passes through cities like Merida, Caceres, and Zamora.

  • Ruta del Agua: The Ruta del Agua is a hiking trail that runs along the Douro River, passing through scenic landscapes and natural attractions. The trail starts in Aldeadavila de la Ribera and ends in Vega Terron, covering 19km of stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Salamanca (province): Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting

Salamanca province is home to several vineyards and wineries, producing excellent wines with a unique flavor. Visitors can go on wine tasting tours and learn about the production process, visit the wine cellars, and sample the different varieties.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Hot air balloon rides are a thrilling way to see Salamanca province from a different perspective. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside, the mountains, and the historical landmarks, while floating above the ground.

Culinary Tours

Salamanca province has a rich gastronomy, with many traditional dishes and local products. Visitors can go on culinary tours and taste the local specialties, such as Iberian ham, cheese, chickpea stew, and hornazo (meat and egg pie).

Week-Long Itinerary for Salamanca (province)

  • Day 1: Explore the city of Salamanca and visit its historic landmarks, such as the University, the Cathedral, and the Plaza Mayor.
  • Day 2: Visit the scenic villages of La Alberca and Mogarraz in the Sierra de Francia, and taste their traditional cuisine.
  • Day 3: Go on a wine tasting tour in the Ribera del Duero region, and visit vineyards like Emilio Moro or Vega Sicilia.
  • Day 4: Visit the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, and take a boat trip along the Duero River to admire the stunning landscapes.
  • Day 5: Visit the charming town of Ciudad Rodrigo, with its impressive castle, Roman bridge, and medieval walls.
  • Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the panoramic views of Salamanca province from above.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local cuisine and culture, visiting traditional markets and shops, and trying local products and specialties.

Food and Drink Scene of Salamanca (province)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hornazo: Meat and egg pie, typical of Salamanca province.
  • Farinato: Sausage made of wheat flour, with a spicy flavor.
  • Iberico Ham: High-quality ham made from Iberico breed pigs, with a unique taste.
  • Cocido: A hearty stew made of chickpeas and vegetables, typical of Castile and Leon region.
  • Arroz con leche: A creamy rice pudding, flavored with cinnamon and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Ribera del Duero wines: Red wines made in the Ribera del Duero region, with a strong character and a fruity flavor.
  • Clarete: A rose wine made in Salamanca province, with a fresh and delicate taste.
  • Anis: A sweet liquor made of anise, typical of Salamanca and Andalusia regions.
  • Cerveza de Castilla: A local beer produced in Castile and Leon region, with a smooth taste.

Where to Stay in Salamanca (province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Salamanca province offers many options for accommodation, catering to different budgets and preferences.

  • Luxury Hotels: There are several luxury hotels in Salamanca city, such as the NH Salamanca Puerta de la Catedral Hotel, the Hospes Palacio de San Esteban, and the Palacio Garci Grande.
  • Budget Hotels: There are also many budget hotels and hostels in Salamanca city, such as the Hostal Goya, the Pension Estefania, and the Hostal Plaza Mayor.
  • Rural Guesthouses: In the countryside, visitors can find many charming rural guesthouses, such as the El Cuartón de Inés Luna, the Hotel Rural Sierra de Francia, and the Posada Real La Casa de Las Manuelas.

What to Buy in Salamanca (province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Salamanca province is known for its high-quality products and traditional crafts, making it a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts.

  • Iberico Ham and Cheese: Salamanca province is famous for its Iberico ham and cheese, which make great gifts and souvenirs for food lovers.
  • Ceramics: Salamanca province has a long tradition of pottery, with handcrafted pieces made in many towns and villages.
  • Leather Goods: Salamanca is also known for its leather goods, such as bags, belts, and shoes, made of high-quality leather.
  • Honey: Salamanca province produces excellent honey, with unique flavors and fragrances, like thyme or lavender.
  • Wines: Salamanca has some excellent wines, such as the Ribera del Duero red wines, which make great gifts for wine lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its history and natural environment. Some of the most notable customs and traditions are:

  • Fiestas: Many towns and villages in Salamanca province have their own fiestas and celebrations, usually linked to religious or agricultural events. One of the most famous fiestas is the Batalla del Vino, held in Haro del Rioja, where participants throw wine at each other.
  • Bullfighting: Bullfighting is a popular spectacle in Salamanca province, with many famous bullrings, such as the Plaza de Toros de La Glorieta in Salamanca city.
  • Music and Dance: Salamanca province has a rich musical and dance tradition, with many folk groups and festivals dedicated to traditional music and dances, like the jota or the fandango.
  • Cuisine: Salamanca province has many traditional dishes and local products, such as the Iberico ham, the farinato, or the hornazo, which reflect the local culture and gastronomy.

Best Time to Visit Salamanca (province)

The best time to visit Salamanca province is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities and cultural events. However, visitors can enjoy Salamanca province all year round, as there are indoor attractions and winter sports as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Salamanca (province)

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, and try to learn about them.
  • Try local cuisine and products, and support local businesses and artisans.
  • Learn some basic Spanish, as it will help you communicate with locals and enjoy their hospitality.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the monuments and historical landmarks, and follow the rules and regulations of the guides and staff.
  • Use excessive noise or litter, and keep the natural and urban environments clean and healthy.
  • Expect to find large crowds or nightlife options outside of the main cities, as Salamanca province is known for its calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Safety and Health

Safety in Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates and good infrastructure. However, visitors should take normal precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended, avoiding deserted areas at night, and following the local traffic rules.

Health in Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province has a good health system, with modern hospitals and clinics in the main cities and towns. Visitors should take normal precautions regarding food and water hygiene, and bring their necessary medication and documents.

Getting to Salamanca (province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province has no major airports, but there are several options nearby:

  • Salamanca airport: Salamanca has a small airport, with daily flights to Madrid and Barcelona.
  • Madrid-Barajas airport: Madrid airport is the largest and busiest airport in Spain, with many international and domestic connections. It is about 200 km away from Salamanca.
  • Valladolid airport: Valladolid airport is about 120 km away from Salamanca, and offers flights to several European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Salamanca (province)

Salamanca’s bus station is located in the city center, with connections to many cities and towns in Spain and Portugal. Other nearby bus stations are:

  • Madrid Bus Station: Madrid Bus Station offers connections to many national and international destinations, and is about 200 km away from Salamanca.
  • Zamora Bus Station: Zamora Bus Station offers connections to many cities and towns in Castile and Leon region, and is about 80 km away from Salamanca.

Other Options

Visitors can also explore Salamanca province by car, train, or taxi. Renting a car is a good option to visit the countryside and the natural attractions, and several car rental companies are available in Salamanca city. Trains are another option to visit neighboring cities and regions, and the high-speed AVE train connects Salamanca with Madrid in just over an hour. Taxis are available in the main cities and towns, but they can be expensive for longer distances.

How to Get Around in Salamanca (province)

Salamanca province has good transportation infrastructure, with several options for getting around:

  • Bus: The regional bus network connects many towns and villages in Salamanca province, and offers affordable prices and frequent schedules.
  • Train: The train service connects Salamanca with other cities and regions in Spain, and offers comfortable and fast transportation.
  • Car: Renting a car is a good option to explore Salamanca province at your own pace, and there are many car rental companies available in Salamanca city.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in the main cities and towns, and can be booked online or by phone. However, they can be expensive for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Salamanca (province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Salamanca province is located in a strategic location, with many neighboring regions and cities worth visiting. Some of the most popular destinations are:

  • Madrid: Spain’s capital city is only 200 km away from Salamanca, and offers a wide range of cultural, leisure, and gastronomical options.
  • Zamora: Zamora is a charming city located in the Duero river valley, famous for its Romanesque architecture and its wine culture.
  • Avila: Avila is a well-preserved medieval city, with impressive walls and famous for its local cuisine and products.
  • Segovia: Segovia is a historic city that boasts a stunning Roman aqueduct, Gothic cathedral, and royal palace, and is famous for its suckling pig dish.

Conclusion

Salamanca province is a fascinating destination, with a rich history, culture, and nature. Visitors can enjoy many activities and tours, taste the local cuisine and products, and relax in charming hotels or guesthouses. Salamanca province is a must-see destination for those who want to discover the authentic Spain.