General view of Cáceres, Extremadura

Two day tour of Cáceres

Cáceres

Cáceres is one of Spain's World Heritage Cities. With the third largest monument ensemble in Europe, in this city you can take a trip back in history to the Renaissance age, and above all to medieval times, thanks to its streets, squares, palaces and walls, which are particularly well-preserved. Although there are many things to see in Cáceres, in this article you can learn about some of the must-visit sites on your two-day getaway. So take note!

The Plaza Mayor square

La Plaza Mayor is undoubtedly an essential stop. It is surrounded by a 16th-century porticoed arcade, where you can find:- The City Hall, a pretty 19th century building.- The Bujaco Tower, a historical landmark and the most important building in the city, it stands at 25 metres high and dates back to the Moorish times. Inside the tower you can also visit the Three Cultures Visitor Centre. You simply can’t leave without climbing to the top of the tower.- The Tower of the Pulpits has Christian origins and is 16 metres high. It is adjoined to the external part of the city wall. You can visit it by entering from the Bujaco Tower.

The Plaza Mayor square, Extremadura

- The Yerba Tower is an Islamic construction and was the last one to be built while Cáceres was under Muslim power- The Chapel of La Paz was built on the site of a former 16th century Renaissance chapel. - The Arco de la Estrella is the main gateway to the walled city of Cáceres. Even though it was opened in the 15th century, its current form is the work of Manuel de Lara Churriguera and was created in 1726.

Arco de la Estrella, Cáceres

Plaza de Santa María square

This square is another of the most important in the city. It was used as a market for a long time and even as a place where the nobility celebrated weddings. In it you can see:- The Co-Cathedral of Cáceres, a church originally built in the 13th century but after it was destroyed, it was re-erected between the 15th and 17th centuries. You can’t miss the Gothic style interior and the views from the bell tower from where you can take in a 360 degree panoramic view.- The Episcopal Palace. The oldest part dates back to 13th century, and its most recent modification was made in the 17th century. - The Renaissance style Hernando de Ovando Palace. It was built in the 15th century and reformed in the 18th century.

The statue of San Pedro in La Plaza de Santa María square, Cáceres

- Los Mayoralgo Palace with a beautiful 16th century façade that was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War in 1937 and later rebuilt.- The Provincial Palace, which was originally a convent, stands out for its Renaissance door.- The Palace of Los Golfines de Abajo is located on La Plaza de Los Golfines square, right next to La Plaza de Santa María square. The building dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The guided tours of the interior are highly recommended.

Tourists taking photos in the Plaza de San Jorge square with the Golfines de Abajo Palace in the background, Cáceres

La Plaza de San Jorge square

In this extraordinarily beautiful square, the Church of San Francisco Javier will surprise you. It is an 18th-century Jesuit church built in the Baroque style. This is one of the corners of the city that makes Cáceres one of the most charming cities of Spain. The church interior is open to the public, in fact you can even climb up to the viewpoint. On the steps leading up from the square to the inside of the church you will come across a bronze statue depicting Saint George slaying the dragon, the representation of a legend that says that after killing the beast, the city could be converted to Christianity.

Church of San Francisco Javier in La Plaza San Jorge, Cáceres

La muralla

The city wall is undoubtedly one of the most iconic monuments in Cáceres. Originally built in Roman times it was later reconstructed in the 12th century by the Almohads. Although it was first built for defensive purposes, today it encloses the city’s old quarter. It has been preserved practically in its entirety and other landmark buildings, such as the Tower of the Pulpits and Bujaco Tower are integrated into it. From the latter you can access a small stretch of the wall and walk along it.

A stroll around Cáceres city walls

How to make the most of a trip to Cáceres

Now that you know about some of the city’s must-see sites, take note of these recommendations to make the most of your visit:- If you love gastronomy, these are some of the typical dishes that you have to try: Torta del Casar, a creamy cheese produced in the province of Cáceres; migas cacereñas, a dish that is based on bread crumbs, simple but very tasty, Iberian ham, bred in the meadows of Extremadura, really exquisite; flores extremeñas, a perfect flower-shaped dessert; zorongollo, a must-try salad consisting of roast red peppers, tomatoes, garlic and olive oil; and many dishes more. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations at the bars and restaurants you visit.What’s more, in this city it is customary to accompany each beer or drink with a tapa, or small dish of food. A great choice for sampling the local cuisine without spending much money. 

Spreading Torta del Cesar cheese on bread

If you feel like going out for a drink, head to the Calle Pizarro, one of the most traditional streets in the city.  - If you would like to see inside the monuments, it’s best to organise your trip to visit them in the morning to avoid arriving too late and finding them closed. Always check the opening hours before visiting the city as they can change.- If you want to enjoy a very special view of Cáceres, don’t miss the chance to take a stroll around the old town when the sun is shining. You'll love it.    - Respect the weather and visit in the autumn or spring when it’s not too hot or cold. However, Cáceres is perfect for a visit at any time of the year.  As you can see, it’s abundantly clear why Cáceres is listed as one of Spain’s World Heritage Cities. It’s quite simply one of the best places to spend time in if you enjoy discovering culture, history and beauty with each step. Be enchanted by its 41 palaces, 1,238 noble coats of arms and its perfectly restored Moorish cistern. You can also visit the Jewish quarter and the 30 buildings that have been declared Property of Cultural Interest. Don’t hold back, venture into the streets and the gastronomy for a totally unique experience. 

View of Cáceres at night, Extremadura