Top Things to Do in Cuenca Spain: Must-See Highlights

Tucked between dramatic gorges in the heart of Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca is one of Spain’s most jaw-dropping hidden gems, and it’s calling your name. Perched above the Huécar and Júcar rivers, this UNESCO World Heritage city delivers cliffside views, medieval charm, and a creative vibe shaped by Gothic cathedrals, Hanging Houses, and bold modern art. Come for the architecture, stay for the wine and tapas. Take a detour to nearby Castilla-La Mancha wineries to sip Tempranillo or crisp whites straight from the source, because Cuenca isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience you can taste.

What are the best things to do in Cuenca Spain?

Start at the hanging houses of Cuenca

Perched dramatically over the Huécar Gorge, the Hanging Houses (Casas Colgadas) are Cuenca’s most iconic sight, and for good reason. These 15th-century homes cling to the cliffside with wooden balconies that seem to defy gravity, offering a picture-perfect blend of daring architecture and historic charm. Snap your best photos from the San Pablo Bridge, just across the canyon, where the view is nothing short of spectacular. Today, one of the houses even hosts the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, so step inside to pair history with a splash of modern creativity.

Explore the Cuenca Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María)

Right in the heart of Plaza Mayor, Cuenca Cathedral stands as a Gothic masterpiece with deep Romanesque roots. Built starting in the late 12th century, it holds the title of Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, setting the tone for centuries of dramatic architecture across the country. Step inside to admire its soaring columns, stained-glass windows, and unique light-filled triforium. Feeling adventurous? Climb the towers for sweeping views over Cuenca’s Old Town and the surrounding gorges.

Wander around the Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is the beating heart of Cuenca’s Old Town, bursting with charm, color, and Castilian flavor. Framed by the grand Town Hall and the magnificent Cathedral, this lively square is the perfect place to grab a sunny terrace seat, order a plate of morteruelo or ajo arriero, and soak in the local rhythm. The pastel façades and traditional eateries give it a warm, authentic feel, and during La Semana Santa, the plaza transforms into a stage of solemn processions and cultural energy. It’s the spot to pause!

Walk across the San Pablo Bridge (Puente de San Pablo)

Built in 1902 to replace an earlier stone bridge, the San Pablo Bridge is a must on your Cuenca itinerary. Made of iron and wood, it stretches dramatically across the Huécar gorge, giving you unbeatable views of the famous Hanging Houses, the lush canyon below, and the historic Convent of San Pablo perched opposite. Walking across feels like floating between periods, part engineering marvel, part scenic lookout. It’s one of the best photo ops in the city, so don’t forget your camera!

Stroll along Calle Alfonso VIII

Stroll down Calle Alfonso VIII and you’ll instantly feel Cuenca’s old-world charm come to life. This vibrant street, lined with colorful facades, winds through the heart of the Old Town and is perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere. Snap photos of the cheerful buildings, pop into artisan shops for handmade souvenirs, or grab a seat at a cozy café to enjoy a glass of local wine. It’s one of the most iconic spots in Cuenca, a mix of history, color, and everyday charm that invites you to slow down and explore.

Visit the ruins of Cuenca Castle

Perched high above Cuenca’s Old Town, the remains of the ancient Cuenca Castle (Castillo de Cuenca) are your ticket to one of the most breathtaking views in the city. While much of the original fortress is gone, the remaining towers and stretches of wall hint at its medieval might. From here, you can gaze over the Huécar gorge, tiled rooftops, and the dramatic cliffs that make Cuenca so unique. It’s a short but rewarding climb, perfect for snapping panoramic photos and getting a real feel for the city’s historic layout.

Take a day trip to the Antonio Pérez Foundation

Set inside a 16th-century monastery, the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo Fundación Antonio Pérez is one of Cuenca’s most original cultural stops. The museum blends historic architecture with bold modern art, showcasing works collected by artist and editor Antonio Pérez. From quirky installations to experimental photography and mixed-media pieces, the exhibits celebrate creativity in all its unpredictable forms. It’s the perfect contrast to the medieval feel of the Old Town, and a must for art lovers looking to see a different side of Cuenca.

What are the best things to do around Cuenca Spain?

Explore the enchanted rock landscape of Ciudad Encantada

Just a 30-minute drive from Cuenca, the Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City) is one of the most intriguing natural attractions near the town of Cuenca. Nestled in the Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park, this otherworldly landscape features dramatic limestone rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion. The area is perfect for hiking and photography, with formations that resemble animals, objects, and even human figures. This unique day trip will let you connect with the region’s geological wonders and escape into nature after exploring the Old Town of Cuenca and its rich offerings like the hanging houses and the Cuenca Cathedral.

Visit the wine Cellars of the Castilla-La-Mancha region

If you’re ready to taste your way through one of the most iconic wine-producing regions in the country, head straight to the wine cellars of Castilla-La Mancha. This sun-drenched heartland is home to some of the largest and oldest wineries in Spain, where sprawling vineyards and centuries-old cellars come together to produce exceptional Tempranillo, Airén, and Garnacha wines. Explore family-run bodegas and modern estates that blend tradition with innovation, offering guided tastings, vineyard walks, and cellar tours that dive into the soul of Spanish winemaking. From oak-aged reds to crisp whites, Castilla-La Mancha is the perfect place to discover why it stands as a pillar of wine excellence in Spain.

Wander through the medieval streets of Alarcón

About an hour’s drive south of Cuenca, the fortified town of Alarcón is a hidden gem perched above the Júcar River Gorge. With origins dating back to the Moors and an impressive 8th-century castle now functioning as a Parador, Alarcón exudes medieval charm. The town offers remarkable views, narrow cobbled streets, and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for a quiet escape. Visit the Santa María Church, which houses murals by Antonio Saura, and enjoy local dishes at a restaurant overlooking the gorge. It’s a scenic day trip that transports you through time while remaining rooted in the history and geography of the Cuenca region.

Discover the wine trails of La Manchuela

Located about 90 minutes southeast of Cuenca, the La Manchuela wine region is a must for anyone looking to explore the more off-the-radar side of Castilla-La Mancha. Nestled between the Júcar and Cabriel rivers, this scenic area is dotted with boutique wineries producing expressive reds and fresh whites, often from native grape varieties like Bobal and Albariño. As you sip your way through the region, you’ll also discover charming villages with Gothic churches, artisan workshops, and traditional restaurants serving hearty Manchegan dishes.

Drive to Madrid to end your trip in Cuenca

End your Cuenca adventure with a scenic drive to Madrid, just under two hours away. As you leave behind the cliffs and hanging houses of Cuenca, the road winds through the vast plains of Castilla-La Mancha, offering the perfect excuse to stop for a final moment of quiet before the capital’s buzz. Once in Madrid, treat yourself to a Madrid wine tasting experience where you can savor bold reds and crisp whites just outside the city. It’s the ideal way to transition from Cuenca’s medieval calm to Madrid’s vibrant energy, ending your journey on a deliciously memorable note.

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Good to Know before visiting Cuenca Spain