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There are an array of things to do in Spain, with Salamanca sharing quite a few of those!
Salamanca is a vibrant city that glows like a pearl in the heart of Spain.
Its cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings are steeped in history, culture, and architecture, offering a beguiling mix of modernity and tradition.
From strolling through leafy parks and savoring tapas in cozy taverns to admiring iconic landmarks and exploring medieval churches, Salamanca is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Salamanca:
1. Plaza Mayor
An iconic square in the heart of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the buildings surrounding the square, people-watch from one of the many cafes, or browse the souvenir shops and market stalls.
Don’t miss: The beautiful Town Hall, with its ornate façade and clock tower, and the statue of Felipe IV at the center of the square.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is at night when the square is illuminated, and be sure to try some delicious local cuisine at the restaurants and tapas bars nearby.
2. University of Salamanca
One of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1218 and located in the city of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the historic campus to see some of the architectural highlights, including the Plateresque facade, the ornate library, and the beautiful cloister.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Escuelas Mayores, a stunning 16th-century building that houses the rector’s offices, the Faculty of Law and other academic services.
Insider travel tips: Salamanca is a university town, so be sure to visit during term time (September to June) to soak up the atmosphere and see students buzzing around the city streets.
Also, climb the tower of the Clerecía for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
3. New Cathedral (Catedral Nueva)
A magnificent Gothic-style cathedral located in Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive facade of the New Cathedral, which blends late Gothic and Renaissance styles. Admire the intricate carvings, statues, and stained glass windows within the cathedral, which dates back to the 16th century.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of this spectacular monument.
Don’t miss: The choir stalls, considered a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance woodcarving. Look up to see the incredible vaulted ceilings and the ornate altarpiece.
Insider travel tips: Book a ticket in advance if you plan to visit during peak season. Consider visiting the cathedral at dusk for a magical view of the illuminated exterior.
Don’t forget to explore the adjacent Old Cathedral (Catedral Vieja) for contrasting architectural styles and rich artistic displays.
4. Old Cathedral (Catedral Vieja)
The Old Cathedral, also known as Catedral Vieja, is a Romanesque-style cathedral located in the city of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral, which features beautiful frescoes, vaulted ceilings, and stunning stained glass windows. The 15th-century altarpiece is particularly impressive.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the Puerta del Perdón, a beautiful portal added to the cathedral in the 14th century. Also, look for the ornate tomb of Saint John of Sahagún, a famous 15th-century saint from the region.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should consider purchasing a combined ticket that also includes admission to the nearby New Cathedral (Catedral Nueva). This will allow you to compare and contrast the different architectural styles of the two buildings.
Additionally, the Old Cathedral is free to visit on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly if you’re on a budget.
5. Casa de las Conchas
Casa de las Conchas is a historic house located in the heart of Salamanca, Spain. The building was constructed in the late 15th century and is renowned for its unique decorative façade.
What to see or do: Visit the exterior of Casa de las Conchas and marvel at its intricate façade adorned with more than 300 shells.
Don’t miss: While exploring Casa de las Conchas, be sure to visit the interior courtyard and admire the Gothic-style arches that surround it.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Casa de las Conchas, consider exploring the building’s interior, which houses a public library and a museum showcasing medieval artifacts.
6. San Esteban Convent
A stunning convent located in the heart of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive facade of the convent, which features intricate stone carvings and a beautiful rose window. Inside the convent, there is a museum showcasing religious art and artifacts, as well as a chapel with stunning frescoes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to climb to the top of the bell tower for breathtaking views of the city.
Insider travel tips: The convent can get crowded, so it’s best to visit in the morning. Also, check online for any special events or exhibits happening during your visit.
7. Salamanca Clerecía
Salamanca Clerecía is a iconic historical building complex in Salamanca, Spain. It comprises a 16th century Jesuit church, a Baroque-style tower, and a museum.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the building and soak in its rich cultural significance. Check out the church’s impressive façade and interior, with ornate gold designs and intricate carvings.
Climb to the top of the tower for unparalleled views of Salamanca.
Don’t forget to head to the museum, which includes exhibits on the Jesuits in Salamanca and the history of the complex itself.
Don’t miss: The tower climb is a must-do – it’s quite a climb but worth it for the view. Make sure to take your time exploring the museum, which is full of fascinating historical artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Try to time your visit for a clear day in order to make the most of the spectacular views from the tower.
Additionally, don’t miss the chance to attend a concert or play at the theater in the complex, which offers a unique cultural experience.
8. Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum
The Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum is located in the heart of Salamanca, Spain, inside a striking Modernist building.
What to see or do: The museum features unique and intricate collections of Art Nouveau and Art Deco art, furniture, and decorative objects from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The museum showcases works from renowned artists like Hector Guimard and Georges de Feure, as well as original pieces from the Vienna Secession.
Visitors can explore rooms filled with striking furniture, lamps, and household items, as well as jewelry, sculptures, and paintings.
Don’t miss: The museum’s beautiful stained glass skylight is a must-see, as it showcases the Art Nouveau style at its finest.
Visitors should also check out the impressive collection of decorative arts and posters, which give a great sense of the era.
Insider travel tips: The museum can be easily accessed by foot from the city center and is a great way to spend a rainy afternoon in Salamanca.
Plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring the various collections, and make sure to take advantage of the guided tours offered throughout the week.
Museum tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door, and discounts are available for students and groups.
9. Convento de San Esteban
Convento de San Esteban is a stunning Dominican monastery located in the heart of Salamanca, Spain.
With a history dating back to the 16th century, it is now a popular tourist attraction and an important religious center.
What to see or do: The monastery’s intricate architecture is one of its main draws, with details such as the stunning Plateresque gate and the vaulted ceiling in the cloister.
Don’t miss the remarkable altarpiece in the church, which is considered a masterpiece of Spanish art.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a guided tour of the monastery for a complete understanding of its history and significance.
The tour takes you through the church, cloister, chapter house, and various chapels, giving you a glimpse of the daily life of the Dominicans.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule for concerts and cultural events held in the monastery – a unique way to enjoy the remarkable acoustics of the church.
The monastery is also home to a five-star hotel, Parador de Salamanca, with stunning views of the city.
10. Pontifical University of Salamanca
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: check the university’s calendar for public lectures or events, take a guided tour to learn more about the university’s history and significance in Spanish culture, explore the nearby old city of Salamanca for more cultural and historical sights.
11. Casa Lis
Casa Lis is a museum of art nouveau and art deco located in the historical center of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of decorative art and objects from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, including glassware, ceramics, jewelry, and toys.
Visitors can explore the beautifully designed rooms filled with intricate details and take in the artistic craftsmanship of the time period.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the collection of automata, mechanical figures that move and perform tasks, which are a highlight of the museum. Also, be sure to check out the stunning stained-glass windows and the peaceful courtyard garden.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum early in the day to avoid crowds and take advantage of the natural light that fills the space.
Additionally, the museum offers guided tours in English, Spanish, and French, which are recommended to fully appreciate the history and artistry of Casa Lis.
12. Roman Bridge (Puente Romano)
The Roman Bridge, also known as Puente Romano, is a landmark bridge in Salamanca, Spain that dates back to the 1st century AD.
What to see or do: Take a walk across the bridge and soak up the stunning views of the Tormes River and the city’s old quarter.
The Roman Bridge is especially breathtaking during sunset when the sky turns into a beautiful shade of pink and orange.
Don’t miss: Savor the breathtaking views of the city’s Gothic Cathedral from the bridge – it’s truly a sight to behold!
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Also, be sure to bring your camera as there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Lastly, wear comfortable footwear as the bridge can get slippery in certain areas due to moss and moisture.
13. Anaya Palace
Anaya Palace is a stunning 16th-century Renaissance palace located in Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the architectural beauty of the palace, which includes the grand staircase, ornate ceilings, and intricate frescoes. The palace also houses the Pontifical University of Salamanca.
Don’t miss: The Sala de la Reina (Queen’s Hall), which features incredibly detailed paintings on the ceiling depicting the life of Saint Jerome.
The Palacio de Anaya is also home to a beautiful chapel, which is adorned with paintings, sculptures, and stucco reliefs.
Insider travel tips: Tourists should plan to visit the palace during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Visitors are also encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved on the tour.
14. Palace of Monterrey
The Palace of Monterrey is a stunning Renaissance-style palace located in Salamanca, Spain.
It was built between 1539 and 1555 for the Count of Monterrey and is considered a prime example of Plateresque architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace’s impressive collection of art and architecture, including its intricate carvings, ornate staircases, and beautiful frescoes.
The palace also features stunning gardens with fountains and pools that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the palace’s impressive main hall, known as the Hall of the Maidens. This room is adorned with intricate decorations, including carvings of faces, animals, and mythological creatures.
Insider travel tips: – Consider hiring a guide to truly appreciate the palace’s beauty and history.
15. La Rana de Salamanca sculpture
La Rana de Salamanca is a bronze sculpture located in the historical district of Salamanca, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the unique and quirky sculpture of a frog on top of a human skull. It is part of the Plateresque facade of the University of Salamanca, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with the sculpture and rub its left foot, which is said to bring good luck to students and visitors.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the sculpture early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
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