Madrid: Tour of the Medieval Jewels of Avila and Salamanca

Madrid holds a wealth of historic treasures, and this captivating tour invites you to unlock the medieval secrets of Avila and Salamanca. Enjoy the stunning architecture of Salamanca Cathedral, explore the storied halls of the University, and uncover the impressive fortifications of Avila – all while savoring local cuisine. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this 11-hour journey promises to leave you captivated by the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Where will this adventure take you next?

Key Points

• Comprehensive 11-hour tour exploring the medieval architectural marvels and historic landmarks in Salamanca and Avila.
• Highlights include the Salamanca Cathedral, University of Salamanca, and the well-preserved medieval walls of Avila.
• Tour offers diverse language options (Spanish, English, Portuguese) and flexible cancellation policy.
• Savory local cuisine is featured during a lunch break, providing an immersive culinary experience.
• Maximum group size of 6 participants ensures a personalized and intimate exploration of these medieval jewels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the medieval jewels in the cities of Salamanca and Avila.

Running for 11 hours, the tour costs $140.31 per person, with a maximum group size of 6 participants.

Available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows reserving without upfront payment.

Highlights include visiting Salamanca Cathedral, exploring the historic University of Salamanca, savoring local cuisine for lunch, and touring the well-preserved medieval walls of Avila.

Entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch are included in the price.

Highlights of the Salamanca Cathedral

One of the highlights of the Salamanca Cathedral is its architectural ensemble, which showcases a remarkable fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Visitors can marvel at the captivating blend of old and new cathedrals, a testament to the cathedral’s evolution over the centuries. The Romanesque influences are evident in the sturdy, massive structure, while the Gothic elements shine through in the intricate details and soaring arches.

Exploring the cathedral’s interior, guests will be awed by the ornate altarpieces, stained glass windows, and historic artifacts that tell the story of this iconic Spanish landmark.

Exploring the University of Salamanca

After exploring the architectural marvels of the Salamanca Cathedral, the tour moves on to the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Guests will admire its Plateresque façade and historic classrooms. The highlight is searching for the famous "lucky frog" carved into the sandstone wall, a tradition believed to bring good fortune.

Visitors can imagine the generations of students who’ve passed through these hallowed halls over the centuries. This stop provides a glimpse into Spain’s rich educational heritage and the vibrant spirit of this university town.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

Following a morning spent marveling at the architectural wonders of Salamanca, the tour pauses for a savory lunch featuring typical local dishes.

The hearty spread includes hornazo, a savory pastry stuffed with pork and chorizo, and chanfaina, a stew of lamb, garlic, and paprika. Grilled meats and local wines complement the meal, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s culinary traditions.

The lunch break provides a welcome respite before continuing the exploration of the medieval jewel of Avila, with its imposing city walls and towers offering breathtaking vistas.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering the Medieval Walls of Avila

As the tour continues, visitors are transported back in time as they set foot within the ancient walls of Avila.

One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval fortifications, the walls stretch for 2.5 kilometers, complete with towers and battlements that offer panoramic city views.

Guests can explore the imposing ramparts, marveling at the architectural feats and military engineering of the 11th century.

The experience provides a unique glimpse into the city’s storied past, allowing travelers to imagine the bustling activity and defensive strategies that once unfolded within these formidable stone structures.

Travel Details and Meeting Point

The tour departs from the corner of O’Donnell Street and Menéndez Pelayo Avenue, near the Puerta de O’Donnell.

Guests should arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. No refunds will be issued for late arrivals, defined as more than 15 minutes past the start time.

Be on time – no refunds for those arriving more than 15 minutes late to the scheduled departure.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors. Participants should bring their passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and note that no drinks or food are allowed in the vehicle.

With a maximum group size of 6, the tour offers an intimate experience to explore the medieval jewels of Avila and Salamanca.

Inclusions and What’s Covered

The tour includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience.

Entrance fees to the Cathedral of Salamanca, the University of Salamanca, and the Walls of Avila are covered. Bottled water is provided throughout the day.

A local lunch featuring typical dishes like hornazo, chanfaina, grilled meats, and local wine is also included.

The tour group is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the medieval charm of Avila and Salamanca without worrying about additional costs.

Important Information and Considerations

Meeting point for the tour is the corner of O’Donnell Street and Menéndez Pelayo Avenue, near Puerta de O’Donnell.

Guests should arrive 10 minutes before departure, as no refunds are given for late arrivals (over 15 minutes).

Guests must arrive 10 minutes early, as no refunds are given for late arrivals exceeding 15 minutes.

The tour isn’t suitable for:

• Wheelchair users

• Unaccompanied minors

• Those unable to walk long distances

• Individuals with limited mobility

• Persons requiring special assistance

Visitors must bring their passport or ID card.

No drinks or food are allowed in the vehicle.

Following these guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the medieval jewels of Avila and Salamanca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, and you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy typical local dishes during the included lunch. Food and drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle.

Is There a Waiting Line to Enter the Sites?

There may be wait times to enter the sites, but the tour includes skip-the-line access. Guests don’t need to bring their own food or drinks, as bottled water and lunch are included in the tour.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Exploring on Our Own?

The tour allocates approximately 1-2 hours of free time for guests to explore the sites independently. Visitors can wander the historic streets, plazas, and buildings at their own pace during these breaks in the guided itinerary.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Historical Commentary Throughout the Day?

The tour guides provide historical commentary throughout the day, sharing insights about the architectural and cultural highlights of Salamanca Cathedral, the University of Salamanca, and the medieval walls of Avila during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers. However, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment, which may provide some flexibility.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating medieval jewels of Avila and Salamanca on this 11-hour tour from Madrid. Marvel at the stunning architecture, savor local cuisine, and explore the impressive medieval walls of Avila. Available in multiple languages, this tour offers a rich cultural experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these historic Spanish cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: