Spain: Cáceres‎

October 5, 2025
Extremadura
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About Cáceres

Cáceres is a historic city in western Spain, located in the region of Extremadura. It’s well known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. The old town, or Ciudad Monumental, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow cobbled streets, ancient stone walls, and buildings that date back to the Roman, Moorish, and Renaissance periods. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time.

The city is full of impressive landmarks, including the Plaza Mayor, which is the main square and a great place to start exploring. Nearby, you’ll find the Tower of Bujaco, the Co-Cathedral of Santa María, and several noble palaces that were once home to powerful families. Many of these buildings have been incredibly well maintained, which gives the whole area a timeless charm. Cáceres is also known for its mix of different cultures, as it has been influenced by Christians, Muslims, and Jews throughout its history.

Today, Cáceres offers a peaceful atmosphere with a slower pace of life, making it a relaxing destination for travellers who enjoy history, food, and scenic views. The local cuisine features hearty dishes like migas and jamón ibérico, and there are plenty of traditional restaurants and cosy cafés. Whether you’re exploring the old city, visiting local museums, or simply enjoying a sunset over the rooftops, Cáceres offers an authentic experience away from the usual tourist routes.

We spent two unforgettable days in Cáceres, a beautiful city in western Spain that feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. It’s in the Extremadura region and is full of old buildings, cobbled streets, and peaceful squares. The whole place has a relaxed charm, and we loved how quiet and authentic it felt compared to the bigger tourist spots.

Day 1: The Old Town and First Impressions
We arrived in Cáceres in the late morning and checked into a small family-run hotel just a short walk from the historic centre. Everyone was friendly, and the atmosphere felt laid-back right away. After dropping off our bags, we headed straight to the Old Town, known as the Ciudad Monumental.

The moment we walked through the Arco de la Estrella, it was like entering another world. The narrow stone streets, high medieval walls, and quiet courtyards were incredibly well preserved. It wasn’t crowded at all, so we could really take our time looking around and soaking it all in.

We visited the Concatedral de Santa María, which is beautiful inside, and climbed the bell tower for a great view of the rooftops and countryside beyond. We also saw the Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo, an impressive noble house with a lovely façade and a bit of a fairytale look.

For lunch, we found a cosy restaurant near the Plaza Mayor. We sat outside in the sun and ordered migas, a local dish made with fried breadcrumbs, garlic, chorizo, and peppers. It was simple but really tasty. We also had a glass of local red wine, which went down very well!

In the afternoon, we explored more side streets, stopping to take photos and admire the old towers and churches. We found ourselves in little hidden squares where time seemed to slow down. Later, we relaxed at a café and enjoyed a coffee while watching the sun go down over the stone buildings.

In the evening, we had tapas at a local bar – small dishes of Iberian ham, cheese, olives, and grilled vegetables – nothing fancy, but fresh and full of flavour. After that, we took a short stroll before heading back to the hotel for the night. The streets were quiet and felt very safe, even after dark

Day 2: Museums, History and a Bit of Nature
After breakfast, we headed to the Museo de Cáceres, which is located in a lovely old building called the Casa de las Veletas. Inside, there’s a mix of archaeology, art, and local history. The highlight was the ancient Moorish cistern under the building – it was peaceful and cool, and the reflections of the arches in the water were magical.

Next, we walked along the old city walls and admired the views of the countryside. Cáceres isn’t a big city, so everything is within walking distance, and there’s no rush. We stopped for a late morning drink and just enjoyed the slow pace of life.

In the afternoon, we took a short drive out to Los Barruecos Natural Monument, about 20 minutes from the city. It’s a really unique landscape with huge, round boulders scattered across the countryside and small lakes in between. There are walking paths and lots of birds, and it was a nice contrast to the city. There’s also the Vostell Museum there – a bit quirky, with modern art in the middle of nature.

We returned to Cáceres in the early evening, just in time to enjoy one last walk through the old town, which looks especially beautiful when it’s lit up at night. For our final meal, we chose a slightly more traditional restaurant and had roast lamb and a local cheese plate. The food throughout the trip had been excellent – simple, hearty, and full of flavour.

Planning your trip to Cáceres

Get a downloadable pdf map of Caceres here

🛫 By Air:

The nearest major airports are in Madrid and Seville. From the UK, you can fly directly to either of these cities.

Madrid-Barajas Airport: About 300 km (around 3–4 hours by car or train).
Seville Airport: About 260 km (about 3 hours by car or train).

🚄 By Train:

From Madrid, you can take a direct train to Cáceres. Trains leave from Madrid-Chamartín station. The journey takes around 3.5 hours.

From Seville, the train also takes about 3–3.5 hours, with a change usually required at Mérida.

You can check times and book tickets on the official Spanish railway website: renfe.com

🚌 By Bus:

There are also long-distance buses from both Madrid and Seville. They are usually a bit cheaper than trains, but can take longer. Buses leave from main bus stations like Madrid Estación Sur or Seville Plaza de Armas.

Bus tickets can be bought online at alsa.es, a major bus company in Spain.

🚗 By Car:

If you prefer to drive, Cáceres is easy to reach via the A-5 motorway from Madrid and the A-66 from Seville. Car hire is available at both airports.

The best time to visit Cáceres

The best time to visit Cáceres is in spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for exploring the city’s historic streets and natural surroundings.

Spring (March to May):
Spring in Cáceres is lovely and mild. Temperatures start to warm up after winter, ranging from about 15°C in March to 25°C by May. The countryside turns green and colourful with wildflowers, making it perfect for walks and sightseeing. Rain is possible, especially in March and April, so it’s wise to pack a light raincoat or umbrella just in case.

Summer (June to August):
Summer gets hot — really hot. Daytime temperatures often climb above 35°C in July and August, and it can even hit 40°C during a heatwave. It’s dry and sunny, with barely any rain. This is a great time for late-night dining and exploring the city’s historic centre in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Autumn (September to November):
Autumn starts off warm in September, with temperatures still in the high 20s, but it gradually cools down. By November, you can expect highs around 15–18°C. The weather is usually pleasant, though October can bring a bit more rain. It’s a comfortable time to visit, especially if you’re not a fan of the summer heat.

Winter (December to February):
Winters in Cáceres are mild compared to much of Europe. Daytime temperatures often stay between 10°C and 15°C, though it can get chilly at night. Rainfall is more common during these months, but snow is very rare. A warm coat and layers will keep you comfortable as you explore the sights.

Where to stay in Caceres

1. Luxury – Atrio

Atrio is a renowned restaurant and hotel located in the historic heart of Cáceres, Spain, known for its exceptional fine dining and elegant, modern design. Run by chefs Toño Pérez and José Polo, Atrio has earned multiple Michelin stars for its creative take on traditional Extremaduran cuisine, blending local ingredients with innovative techniques. The building itself is a striking contrast to the ancient city around it, with sleek architecture that still respects the surrounding heritage. Guests often praise not only the food and wine cellar—one of the finest in Spain—but also the warm hospitality and attention to detail throughout the experience.

2. Mid Range – Soho Boutique Casa Don Fernando

Soho Boutique Casa Don Fernando is a charming hotel located right in the heart of Cáceres, Spain, on the lively Plaza Mayor. It offers a comfortable and stylish place to stay, with modern rooms set within a beautifully restored historic building. Guests can enjoy lovely views of the square, easy access to the old town’s famous landmarks, and a range of restaurants and cafés just a short walk away. The hotel combines old-world charm with modern convenience, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore the rich history and relaxed atmosphere of Cáceres.

3. Budget – Hotel Iberia Plaza Mayor

Hotel Iberia Plaza Mayor in Cáceres, Spain, is a charming and convenient place to stay, located right on the edge of the city’s historic old town. Set in a traditional building with modern touches, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, friendly service, and a cosy atmosphere. Its location is ideal for exploring the narrow streets, ancient walls, and beautiful architecture of Cáceres, with the Plaza Mayor just steps away. Whether you’re visiting for history, culture, or just a relaxing break, Hotel Iberia Plaza Mayor provides a great base in the heart of this fascinating city.