The tourist experience of a city is the sum of many things: The tourist experience of a city is the sum of many things: experiencing a cultural heritage that exhilarates and allows us to do what we like best, go for a walk, see people, go shopping, eat out, stay overnight. But above all, being influenced by its very special atmosphere: a city, like a pleasant perfume specially designed with both the city itself and its visitors in mind.
Salamanca in a day
One day is undoubtedly a very short time to get to know a city such as Salamanca, but the important thing is to be ready to have fun and be surprised. There is no doubt in our mind that you will want to come back for more and with this in mind, we have put together this short itinerary.
We start at the Tourist Office where we pick up information. Departing each morning from the tourist offices are guided tours, with a more comprehensive timetable on weekends and during peak periods, namely the summer months. Another interesting option is to go on a night-time tour; enjoy a pleasant walk through the city’s historic centre with the buildings lit up. You can also take one of our themed tours, such as legends of Salamanca, anecdotes…
Ready to go?.
There is no need to rush:
The Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral complex; don’t forget to climb the cathedral’s medieval towers, making sure to visit the Ieronimus exhibition en route, stroll around the outdoor terraces and balustrades that look over the main church, between gargoyles, pinnacles and cathedral bells. The University’s historic building, where visitors have to find the shape of a frog on the main facade; inside, there are places such as the Fray Luis auditorium, where time appears to have stood still, or the Old Library. No rush, but make sure to see the Casa de las Conchas, renowned for its main facade which is covered with shells, and la Clerecía Church and the Pontifical University, located just in front. La Clerecía Towers provide some incredible views over the city.
After this pleasant walk, time for a quick break to get our strength back. There are some excellent restaurants with top-quality dining. Traditional and creative cuisine with locally-grown products, featuring mouth-waterish dishes such as Guijuelo cured ham, “morucha” beef, lentils from Armuña, chanfaina (rice with a chorizo and pork stew), roasts…locally-produced Salamanca cheeses, olive oils and wines. How about fine dining with views over the city (Parador de Turismo) or in the Plaza Mayor, or even in a contemporary art centre or in a traditional Castile tavern.
In the afternoon, how about a stroll along the Roman Bridge or visit the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea gardens. The Casa Lis, an impressive modernist building with stained glass, is just one of the city’s treasures. It is home to the Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum. Afterwards, why not visit the San Esteban and the Dueñas Convents. If visiting the latter, we suggest you try the pastries that are made by the nuns, savour their delights as you sit peacefully in the cloisters, taking in the breathtaking views of the Cathedral.
We finish off the day with a visit to two legendary venues: La Cueva de Salamanca, where the Devil was reputed to have given classes in the dark arts; and the Patio de la Salina, a former salt store.
Before heading off for dinner, don’t forget to buy your souvenirs. In the city-centre there are a number of souvenir stores as well as art and craft stores and delicatessens.
