Spain · City Guide
Salamanca
Salamanca is one of Spain's most beautiful university cities, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary golden sandstone architecture and one of the finest Plaza Mayor squares in all of Spain. From the Old and New Cathedrals and the ornate Plateresque facade of the University to the vibrant tapas bars and the beautiful Río Tormes, Salamanca offers a quintessential Spanish city experience.
Elect's take
"Salamanca is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The golden Villamayor sandstone creates a warmth and richness extraordinary in the evening light, and the combination of outstanding architecture, vibrant student culture and excellent food creates a destination I love."
The Plaza Mayor is widely considered the most beautiful in Spain, a perfectly proportioned baroque square surrounded by arcaded buildings. The University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in the world and its Plateresque facade is exceptional. The Casa de las Conchas, decorated with 300 carved stone shells, is one of Spain's most unusual buildings. The nightlife, fuelled by an enormous student population, is outstanding.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Plaza Mayor
Widely considered the most beautiful main square in Spain.
University of Salamanca
One of the oldest universities in Europe founded in 1218 with an extraordinary Plateresque facade.
Old Cathedral
A magnificent Romanesque cathedral with an extraordinary Byzantine dome.
Student Nightlife
One of Spain's most vibrant evening cultures fuelled by an enormous student population.
Salamanca Tapas
Outstanding tapas culture around the Plaza Mayor and the university quarter.
Casa de las Conchas
A uniquely beautiful 15th century building covered with 300 carved stone shells.
