Madrid: Tour of the Medieval Jewels of Avila and Salamanca

Uncover the captivating medieval history of Spain’s historic cities on this guided tour of Avila and Salamanca. Explore the ornate Romanesque and Gothic architecture of Salamanca Cathedral, then explore the renowned University of Salamanca and its iconic lucky frog. Venture within Avila’s well-preserved medieval walls and savor the regional cuisine, all while uncovering the rich cultural heritage that defined these stunning destinations. This immersive experience promises to transport you back in time, leaving you eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• Tour starts at the Salamanca Cathedral, a Romanesque and Gothic architectural masterpiece with an ornate Plateresque façade.
• Visit the University of Salamanca, one of Europe’s oldest universities, renowned for its Plateresque façade and historic classrooms.
• Explore the medieval walls of Avila in the afternoon, immersing visitors in the region’s rich history.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local specialties like Hornazo and Chanfaina, paired with regional wines.
• Participants must bring a valid passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes early.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Salamanca Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that blends the Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Next, guests will explore the University of Salamanca, one of Europe’s oldest universities, known for its Plateresque façade and historic classrooms. The tour also includes a search for the famous lucky frog on the university’s façade.

In the afternoon, the group will visit the medieval walls of Avila, offering panoramic views of the city.

Lunch at a local restaurant features traditional dishes like hornazo, chanfaina, and grilled meats, paired with local wine.

Salamanca Cathedral

Salamanca Cathedral stands as an architectural marvel, blending the Romanesque and Gothic styles seamlessly.

Its facade showcases a harmonious mix of ornate details, from the intricate stone carvings to the grand arched entrances.

Inside, visitors are awed by the cathedral’s vast interior, with towering columns, stained glass windows, and impressive vaulted ceilings.

The cathedral’s vast interior captivates visitors with its towering columns, stained glass windows, and impressive vaulted ceilings.

One of the highlights is the Plateresque façade, a Renaissance-style masterpiece adorned with delicate sculpted elements.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s historic nooks and crannies, uncovering its rich history and artistic significance.

A true jewel of Salamanca’s architectural heritage.

University of Salamanca

One of Europe’s oldest universities, the University of Salamanca is renowned for its Plateresque façade and historic classrooms that have witnessed the education of generations of scholars. Visitors can explore the university’s breathtaking architectural features and soak in the rich academic history.

| Highlights |

| — |

| Plateresque Façade |

| Historic Classrooms |

| One of Europe’s Oldest Universities |

| Iconic University of Salamanca Logo |

| Educational Heritage of Centuries |

Navigating the university’s storied halls offers a glimpse into Salamanca’s enduring commitment to higher learning. With a legacy dating back to 1218, the University of Salamanca continues to captivate and inspire all who step through its doors.

Finding the Lucky Frog

Amidst the captivating architectural marvels of the University of Salamanca, visitors often seek out a unique feature – the famous "lucky frog" hidden within the intricate Plateresque façade.

This tiny, carved amphibian is said to bring good fortune to those who spot it. Tucked away among the ornate details, the lucky frog can be challenging to locate, but once found, it’s a source of delight and a cherished memento of the university’s rich history.

Spotting this elusive creature is a must-do activity for many, adding an element of whimsy and discovery to the tour of this prestigious academic institution.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Medieval Walls of Avila

The medieval walls of Avila stand as a testament to the city’s rich history, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of Europe’s best-preserved fortifications.

Stretching for nearly 2.5 kilometers, the walls feature 88 towers and 9 gates, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can walk along the walls, admiring the Romanesque architecture and imagining the city’s past defenses.

The walls offer a glimpse into Avila’s medieval heritage, transporting visitors back in time.

This experience is a highlight of the tour, allowing guests to enjoy the city’s storied past.

Traditional Dining Experience

After exploring the historic landmarks of Salamanca and Avila, the tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional dishes.

The menu showcases a variety of regional specialties:

A menu highlighting the region’s culinary traditions, featuring savory pastries, hearty stews, and grilled meats with local wines.

1. Hornazo – a savory pastry filled with cured meats, eggs, and spices.

2. Chanfaina – a hearty stew made with organ meats, vegetables, and local spices.

3. Grilled meats accompanied by regional wines to complement the flavors.

This dining experience immerses guests in the culinary traditions of this enchanting region, providing a well-rounded culture beyond the architectural wonders.

Meeting Point and Arrival

The tour begins at the corner of O’Donnell Street and Menéndez Pelayo Avenue, near Puerta de O’Donnell. Guests should arrive 10 minutes early, as the tour departs promptly. Late arrivals (more than 15 minutes) will not be refunded.

| Requirement | Notes |

| — | — |

| What to Bring | Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing |

| Restrictions | No drinks or food in the vehicle, unaccompanied minors not allowed |

| Arrival Time | 10 minutes early |

| Late Arrivals | No refunds for guests more than 15 minutes late |

Arriving on time ensures a seamless start to the exploration of Avila and Salamanca’s medieval wonders.

Important Restrictions and Requirements

Guests must refrain from bringing any food or drinks into the vehicle.

The tour has a few key requirements to ensure a seamless experience:

1. Passport or ID must be brought for entry into historical sites.

2. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for navigating the medieval walls and streets.

3. Unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted on the tour.

Arrivals should plan to be at the meeting point 10 minutes early, as no refunds will be issued for late arrivals of more than 15 minutes.

Following these simple guidelines will allow everyone to fully enjoy the medieval treasures of Avila and Salamanca.

Common Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are allowed to take photos during the tour. However, they should avoid using flash photography indoors to respect the historic sites. Guests are encouraged to capture the stunning architecture and scenery throughout the day.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also choose the reserve now & pay later option if they need to reschedule their tour.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. Guests can book a private tour with a dedicated guide for a more personalized experience. The price for a private tour may vary depending on the group size.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Sites?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the tour sites. The University of Salamanca and the medieval walls of Avila likely offer a variety of local crafts, artwork, and other mementos for guests to take home.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, the company may be willing to provide discounts for larger groups or special circumstances. It’s best to inquire about any potential discounts when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Spain’s medieval jewels. Travelers will marvel at the Romanesque and Gothic splendor of Salamanca Cathedral, explore the historic University of Salamanca, and discover the charming medieval walls of Avila. Complemented by traditional regional cuisine and local wines, this journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the essence of Spain’s storied past.

You can check if your dates are available here: