Top Things To Do in Salamanca Spain: Must-See Attractions

With its golden sandstone architecture, storied university roots, and vibrant tapas culture, Salamanca is a jewel of northwestern Spain. It is a must for anyone exploring a Castilla and Leon winery getaway or planning a city break rich in history. There are countless things to do in Salamanca Spain, from wandering millennia-old streets lined with ornate Renaissance façades to discovering the legacy of the oldest university in the country. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a deep dive into Gothic and Baroque architecture, or a wine-infused weekend filled with local reds and mouthwatering tapas, Salamanca delivers at every turn. A World Heritage Site packed with charm, it combines cultural prestige with modern flavor, perfect for a day trip from Madrid or a longer stay built around food, history, and soul.

What are the best things to do in Salamanca Spain?

Stroll through the Plaza Mayor, Salamanca’s Grand Baroque Square

Start your Salamanca adventure in the Plaza Mayor, it’s not just a square, it’s the city’s soul. Widely considered one of the most beautiful plazas in Spain, this 18th-century Baroque masterpiece is where locals meet, visitors linger, and golden sandstone glows under the evening lights. Grab a table under the arcades, order a glass of wine or a tortilla pincho, and soak up the energy. By day, it’s a buzzing social hub; by night, it turns downright magical. You haven’t been to Salamanca until you’ve people-watched here with a tapa in hand and nowhere to be.

Visit the old Cathedral and the new Cathedral of Salamanca

No trip to the city of Salamanca is complete without exploring its legendary twin cathedrals, two in one. The Old Cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a Romanesque treasure with stunning frescoes and a peaceful, timeworn charm. Right next to it, see the New Cathedral, started in the 16th century, towers with its late Gothic and Baroque drama. The best part? Climb the Scala Coeli towers for one of the most spectacular views over Salamanca’s golden skyline. It’s a rare chance to walk between centuries of faith, architecture, and artistic evolution, all in one unforgettable stop.

Explore the Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells)

Just a stone’s throw from the University of Salamanca, the Casa de las Conchas is impossible to miss, covered in stone scallop shells. With over 300 carved shells decorating its façade, this 15th-century palace is a tribute to the Order of Santiago and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The architectural style is a unique blend of Gothic and Plateresque, and inside, you’ll find a peaceful courtyard and a public library tucked beneath centuries-old arches. Snap a photo from the outside, then step in for a quiet moment in one of Salamanca’s most curious corners.

Admire the University of Salamanca, the oldest in Spain

Step into academic legend at the University of Salamanca, the oldest in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe, officially established in 1218. Its Renaissance façade is a true work of art, covered in intricate carvings, including the famous frog hidden on a skull, which, according to tradition, brings luck if you can spot it. This university isn’t just a historic site, it’s the beating heart of Salamanca’s identity as a scholarly city, one of the best places to see in Salamanca. 

Discover art nouveau Marvels at Casa Lis

Casa Lis is where Salamanca surprises you. Tucked along the old city walls, this Art Nouveau and Art Deco museum is housed in a striking modernista mansion, all stained glass, ironwork, and color that pops against the city’s medieval tones. Step inside to explore a quirky and elegant collection of porcelain dolls, glassware, jewelry, and more, all from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s one of the most unexpected cultural gems in Salamanca and a perfect stop when you want a break from the Gothic and Romanesque. Bold, beautiful, and photogenic.

Explore the Convento de San Esteban, Salamanca’s Dominican Jewel

The Convent of San Esteban is one of Salamanca’s true architectural showstoppers, and a must for history lovers. Built in the 16th century, this former Dominican monastery stuns with its Plateresque façade, towering church, and peaceful two-story cloister. Inside, don’t miss the ornate altarpiece and vaulted ceilings that showcase the grandeur of Spanish Gothic design. It’s said that St. Thomas Aquinas once taught here, adding even more weight to its academic and spiritual legacy. Take a quiet moment in the cloister, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to pause, breathe, and just take it all in.

Walk across the Roman Bridge over the Tormes River

Step onto history at the Roman Bridge of Salamanca, a 1st-century engineering feat that still connects the city across the Tormes River. Once part of the Via de la Plata trade route, this ancient stone bridge has stood the test of time and remains open to pedestrians today. Lined with sculptures, including the famous stone bull (verraco), and surrounded by scenic walking paths, it’s the perfect spot for a reflective stroll with views that blend Salamanca’s ancient heart with its modern soul. It’s not just a bridge, it’s a timeless link between eras.

Climb the Towers of Scala Coeli for panoramic views of Salamanca

For the best panoramic views in Salamanca, head straight to the Scala Coeli towers at the Clerecía church. Climb the historic bell tower and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping sights over the Old and New Cathedrals, the Tormes River, and, on a clear day, the distant Sierra de Béjar mountains. It’s a must for photographers, skyline chasers, and anyone who wants to take in the full majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage city from above. The climb is worth every step.

Walk through the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea Garden

Tucked beside Salamanca’s old city walls, the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is a quiet garden with a literary soul. Named after the star-crossed lovers from La Celestina, one of Spain’s most iconic works, this spot is all about romance, reflection, and timeless views. From here, you can gaze out over the Roman bridge, the Tormes River, and the rooftops of the historic center. It’s the perfect place to pause, breathe, and share a quiet moment, just you, the view, and a little bit of Spanish poetry.

Tour the Monastery de Las Dueñas

Don’t skip the Monastery of Las Dueñas, one of Salamanca’s hidden gems. This 16th-century Dominican convent may fly under the radar, but step inside and you’ll find a stunning Gothic cloister, elegant arches, and a peaceful courtyard that feels like a true escape from the city buzz. The architectural harmony and quiet atmosphere offer a rare, intimate look at monastic life in Renaissance Spain. It’s calm, beautiful, and well worth the detour.

Take a look at Plaza de Anaya and its architectural ensemble

Nestled between the cathedral and the university, Plaza de Anaya is framed by harmonious Renaissance structures. It’s a favorite with students and tourists alike, thanks to its shaded paths and inspiring ambiance. This is your go-to photo stop for capturing the duo of Salamanca’s cathedrals.

What are the best things to do around Salamanca Spain?

Explore the Salamanca wine region

Just an hour southwest of Salamanca, the Sierra de Salamanca wine region is a dream day trip for wine lovers and curious explorers alike. Tucked into a scenic mountain backdrop, this area blends lush vineyards, medieval villages, and centuries-old cellars with serious winemaking character. Known for its native Rufete grape, the region produces expressive reds and crisp whites that capture the wild beauty of the landscape. Many of the Sierra de Salamanca wineries open their doors for tastings, vineyard walks, and behind-the-scenes experiences. It’s the perfect escape when you want to swap stone cloisters for clinking glasses and soak in a different kind of Salamanca magic.

Wander around Ciudad Rodrigo, a walled treasure

Just an hour west of Salamanca, Ciudad Rodrigo is like walking straight into a medieval storybook. Encircled by 12th-century defensive walls, this fortified hilltop town is packed with history and architectural charm. The cathedral alone is a highlight, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements into one stunning structure. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore centuries-old gates, and take in views from the ramparts. If you love the elegance of Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, you’ll find Ciudad Rodrigo’s timeless atmosphere the perfect companion piece, quiet, grand, and full of stories.

Discover the historic town of Alba de Tormes

Just 25 minutes from Salamanca, the riverside town of Alba de Tormes offers a peaceful change of pace and a deep dive into Spain’s spiritual heritage. Best known as the final resting place of Saint Teresa of Ávila, the town is home to a Carmelite monastery that houses her relics and tells the story of her life and legacy. Wander the quiet streets, visit the castle ruins with panoramic views, and soak in the authentic Castilian charm that makes this town a hidden gem. If you’re into history, faith, or just want to step off the beaten path, Alba de Tormes is well worth the detour.

Head to Béjar and its artisanal legacy

About 50 minutes south of Salamanca, Béjar is a mountain-framed town with deep roots in Spain’s wool industry and more charm than you’d expect. Its Renaissance Ducal Palace, peaceful courtyards, and historic streets give it a timeless feel, while art nouveau and art deco buildings echo the vibe of Casa Lis back in Salamanca. You’ll find layers of history in every corner, from medieval towers to textile museums, all surrounded by the scenic Sierra de Béjar. If you’re looking to pair cultural depth with a fresh mountain breeze, this is the perfect day trip beyond Salamanca’s city walls.

Drive to Valladolid for the day

Hop in the car and head to Valladolid for the day, just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Salamanca, it’s a cultural and culinary heavyweight worth the drive. Once the capital of Spain under King Philip II, Valladolid mixes royal history with lively urban energy. Explore the majestic Plaza Mayor, visit the National Sculpture Museum, and wander through grand churches and palaces. Don’t miss the local tapas scene or a glass of Verdejo from nearby Rueda, part of the acclaimed Castilla and Leon winery circuit. It’s the kind of place where history, food, and wine all come together in a single, unforgettable stop.

Don’t miss our guide on the best things to do in Valladolid Spain.

Good to Know before visiting Salamanca