Salamanca: The Complete Guide

Salamanca is the capital and largest city of the province Salamanca. The city lies on the banks of the Tormes River on Spain’s Northern Plateau. The city is considered to be one of the most beautiful Renaissance cities in the whole of Europe, with its historic center full of architectural treats and incredible monuments that date back centuries.
As with most Spanish cities life revolves around the busy and bustling Plaza Mayor, lined with cafes, bars and restaurants – which looks magical at night when it is lit up.
Other stunning places to see such as the New and Old Cathedrals, both of which are built out of sandstone – these warm hues that lend Salamanca its nickname – La Dorada, or ‘Golden City’.
Salamanca is Castilla’s liveliest city, home to a massive Spanish and international student population which gives it a vivacious and youthful feel – its University was founded in 1218 and is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Europe.
Table of Contents
- History of Salamanca
- Early History of Salamanca
- Salamanca in the Roman Era
- Salamanca in the Middle Ages
- Founding of the University of Salamanca
- Salamanca During the Renaissance
- Salamanca in the Golden Age
- Decline and Revival of Salamanca
- Modern Era and Salamanca
- Contemporary Salamanca
- 10 Best places to See in Salamanca
- Palacio de Monterrey
- Salamanca Plaza Mayor
- Palacio de la Salina
- Salina Palace
- Casa de las Conchas
- Palacio de Anaya
- Torre del Clavero
- Salamanca University
- Catedral Viejo y Nueva
- Salamanca Puente Romano
- Where to Stay in Salamanca
- Best Time to Visit Salamanca
- Visiting Salamanca in Spring
- Visiting Salamanca in Summer
- Visiting Salamanca in Autumn
- Visiting Salamanca in Winter
- How to get to Salamanca
History of Salamanca
Visiting Salamanca for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Salamanca on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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10 Best places to See in Salamanca
This complete guide to Salamanca not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Salamanca and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Palacio de Monterrey

Location: Monterrey's palace Pl. de Monterrey, 2 37002 Salamanca Spain | Hours: Morning Tours: At 10:30 am. At 11:30 am. At 12:30 p.m. At 1:30 p.m. Afternoon Tours: At 5:00 p.m. At 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m. (summer). | Price: €9.50 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Palacio de Monterrey
Salamanca Plaza Mayor

Visiting Salamanca Plaza Mayor
Palacio de la Salina

Location: Palacio de la Salina C. San Pablo, 18 37001 Salamanca Spain | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Palacio de la Salina
Salina Palace

Visiting Salina Palace
Casa de las Conchas

Location: Casa de las Conchas, Calle Compañía, 2 37002 Salamanca (Castilla y Leon) | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Casa de las Conchas
Palacio de Anaya

Location: Anaya Palace C. Salamanca Zamora, 3 37008 Salamanca Spain | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Palacio de Anaya
Torre del Clavero

Location: Torre del Clavero C. Consuelo, 34 37001 Salamanca Spain | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Torre del Clavero
Salamanca University

Location: Patio de Escuelas Menores, 37008 Salamanca | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Salamanca University
Catedral Viejo y Nueva

Location: Salamanca Cathedral C. Benedicto XVI 37008 Salamanca Spain | Hours: 10am-8pm Apr-Sep, to 6pm Oct-Mar | Price: adult/child incl audio guide & Catedral Vieja €6/4 | Website | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Catedral Viejo y Nueva
Salamanca Puente Romano

Location: Roman bridge of Salamanca Puente de Sánchez Fabrés 37008 Salamanca Spain | Hours: 24 Hour | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Salamanca Puente Romano
Where to Stay in Salamanca
The best place to stay is in the historic center, where boutique hotels offer easy access to Plaza Mayor, the university, and the city’s golden sandstone architecture. For a quieter stay, accommodations near the Tormes River provide scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Salamanca’s historic landmarks, lively tapas scene, and cultural museums. A 4-day stay allows for day trips to Zamora, Ávila, or the Arribes del Duero wine region.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Salamanca. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Salamanca Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Salamanca
Annual Weather Overview
- January 9°C 52°F
- February 12°C 57°F
- March 13°C 60°F
- April 19°C 69°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 28°C 86°F
- July 30°C 95°F
- August 31°C 92°F
- September 26°C 82°F
- October 21°C 73°F
- November 13°C 59°F
- December 11°C 55°F
How to get to Salamanca
By Air to Salamanca
The nearest major airport to Salamanca is Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD), located approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) away. From Madrid, you can take a direct bus or train to Salamanca. Alternatively, you can fly into Valladolid Airport (VLL), which is about 125 kilometers (78 miles) from Salamanca. From Valladolid, you can reach Salamanca by bus, train, or rental car.
By Train to Salamanca
Salamanca is well-connected by train, with the Salamanca Railway Station serving as the main hub. From Madrid, high-speed Alvia trains take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Salamanca. Trains from Valladolid take about 1.5 hours. The train station is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to access local attractions.
By Bus to Salamanca
Several bus companies operate routes to Salamanca from various cities in Spain. From Madrid, buses take around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Salamanca. From Valladolid, the bus journey is about 1.5 hours. The main bus station in Salamanca is also centrally located, providing easy access to the city’s sights and accommodations.
By Car to Salamanca
Driving to Salamanca is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding regions. From Madrid, the drive takes approximately 2.5 hours via the A-50 and A-6 highways. From Valladolid, it takes about 1.5 hours via the A-62 highway. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and visit nearby attractions.
By Local Transportation in Salamanca
Once in Salamanca, you can explore the city by walking or using the local bus network operated by Salamanca City Transport. Taxis are also readily available for getting around the city and are a convenient option for short trips. Walking is particularly enjoyable in Salamanca due to its compact size and the close proximity of major attractions.