HOLIDAY INFORMATION ON Salamanca

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Totally Spain has organized several 7 day tours within Spain and Portugal for groups of 24-30 people that I’ve put together for friends and myself. All three were executed perfectly and Ken and his team were a pleasure to work with. They are ve...

Sue Denison, New York, USA
2023-04-12

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The Telegraph calls Salamanca “the Oxford of Spain,” adding that “it's hard to think of another city that so perfectly combines youthful energy with intellectual pursuit and aesthetic beauty as Salamanca.” We have to agree. If you could go back and be a student, this is where you’d choose. This golden UNESCO-listed city has been handing out degrees since 1218, and exploring its streets is a joy. Soak up the atmosphere in the stunning 18th-century Plaza Mayor, try to find the frog on the façade of the rector’s building, and enjoy a coffee or a few tapas in the Caballerizas café, so called because it used to be the university stables (caballerizas means stables).

There’s something for everyone in Salamanca. History buffs will want to retrace Columbus’s steps in the city, as he once petitioned the university for support for his voyages. Architecture fans will find themselves in heaven with two universities, two cathedrals, a Roman bridge, and our favorite, the San Esteban church. The Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral offer contrasting styles and a glimpse into the city’s rich ecclesiastical history.

For food lovers, Salamanca is a paradise of local cuisine. You’ll find numerous wonderful tapas bars near the Plaza Mayor. Try the amazing cold cuts—the local acorn-fed jamón is particularly delicious. Keep an eye out for hornazo, a savory pie that is an Easter treat. On Easter Mondays, the entire city decamps to the banks of the River Tormes with said pie and a picnic blanket. For a sweet treat, pick up some amarguillo biscuits from the Duenas convent, made by the nuns themselves!

Salamanca is home to some 40,000 students each year, bringing a youthful energy to the city. The University of Salamanca is one of the oldest universities in the world, and its historic buildings are a testament to centuries of learning. The façade of the university’s main building is a stunning example of Plateresque architecture, and spotting the hidden frog on it is a fun challenge for visitors.

In addition to its historical and educational significance, Salamanca hosts a few specialist museums, including an Art Nouveau museum (Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco) and a classic car museum (Museo de Historia de la Automoción). However, with so much to see just walking around the city, you might not find the time to visit them. The Casa de las Conchas, or Shell House, now housing the Tourist Office, is another must-see with its façade decorated with over 300 shells.

Salamanca’s vibrant culture is further highlighted by its many festivals and events. The city comes alive during the annual Salamanca Fair in September, celebrating the Virgen de la Vega, the city's patron saint. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions are also particularly moving and draw visitors from all over the region.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the banks of the River Tormes offer lovely walking paths and picnic spots. The Roman bridge, dating back to the 1st century, provides stunning views of the city and the river, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Salamanca offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let us plan your visit to this spectacular city and discover its many charms.