Salamanca Travel Guide: Seeing the City Through New Eyes

In 2009, I spent a semester studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain, immersing myself in Spanish language and culture. Fifteen years later, in 2024, I finally returned—this time as a much more experienced traveler. Walking through the familiar yet transformed streets of Salamanca, I was struck by how the city had evolved while still maintaining its timeless charm and rich history.From visiting my old grocery store and the house where I once lived to finally touring the cathedrals, this trip was a blend of nostalgia and discovery. In this Salamanca travel guide, I’ll share what to see, what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and tips for planning your visit.

Getting to Salamanca: Arriving by Train from Madrid

One of the best ways to get to Salamanca is by train from Madrid, a journey I hadn’t experienced back in 2009.

• Train Duration: ~1.5 to 2 hours
• Cost: €15-€40 depending on class and time of booking
• Departures: Frequent daily trains from Madrid Chamartín station

Taking the train is efficient, comfortable, and offers great countryside views, making it the perfect way to arrive in this historic city.

Exploring Salamanca: What to See and Do

1. Revisiting My Old Neighborhood

The first thing I did upon arrival was walk through my old neighborhood, stopping at the grocery store I used to frequent and the apartment where I lived as a student. It was surreal to stand outside my former home, remembering the countless nights of studying, conversations with my host family, and my first experiences navigating daily life in Spain.

2. Walking Through the University of Salamanca

One of Salamanca’s most iconic landmarks, the University of Salamanca, has been shaping students since 1218, making it the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe. I had spent so much time here as a student, but returning with fresh eyes made me appreciate its significance even more.

• Must-See: The Frog on the University Façade – Legend says if you find the tiny frog hidden in the carvings, you’ll have good luck in your studies! I actually have a tattoo of this frog on my leg and it’s part of my first tattoo!
• Library: Home to one of Spain’s most valuable book collections.

3. Running Across the Puente Romano & Along the River

One of my favorite new experiences was running across the Puente Romano and along the Tormes River. The Roman Bridge of Salamanca, built in the 1st century AD, is still in use today!

• Great for runners and walkers
• Stunning sunrise and sunset views over the river
• Peaceful escape from the city center

4. Finally Touring the Cathedrals of Salamanca

Back in 2009, I missed the chance to tour Salamanca’s cathedrals because I was traveling the same weekend the other students took the tour. However, this time, I finally explored them—and they completely blew me away!

Interestingly, Salamanca is home to not just one but two cathedrals, seamlessly connected to each other:

• The Old Cathedral (Catedral Vieja) – Built in the 12th century, featuring stunning medieval frescoes.
• The New Cathedral (Catedral Nueva) – Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

💡 Best Part? Climbing to the Rooftop! The views over Salamanca from the cathedral rooftop were absolutely breathtaking and something I highly recommend.

5. Touring the Monastery of San Esteban

Another first-time experience was visiting the Monastery of San Esteban, a Dominican monastery with intricate Plateresque architecture. This hidden gem had fewer crowds than the cathedrals but was equally impressive.

• Beautiful cloisters and chapels
• Fascinating history, tied to Columbus’ meeting with Spanish clergy before his voyage to the Americas
• Peaceful atmosphere for reflection

6. Visiting Casa de las Conchas

The Casa de las Conchas, or House of Shells, was a place I passed by countless times as a student. However, I never truly took the time to appreciate its beauty. Covered in over 300 stone shells, it’s one of Salamanca’s most unique buildings and now serves as a public library.

7. Strolling Through Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor, Salamanca’s beating heart, is one of Spain’s most stunning squares. Returning after 15 years, it felt both familiar and grander than I remembered.

• Best time to visit: Evening, when the golden sandstone glows under the lights.
• Things to do: Sit at a café, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere.

Bonus tip: Look for the hidden carvings of famous figures, including Franco, Cervantes, and a hidden astronaut (added during renovations).

8. Wandering Through Salamanca’s Parks

One thing that stood out on this visit was how much I appreciated Salamanca’s parks and green spaces. Whether it was relaxing at Huerto de Calixto y Melibea, a romantic garden with city views, or walking along the Tormes River, these natural areas provided a great balance to the city’s rich history.

What’s Changed in Salamanca Since 2009?

Returning after 15 years, I noticed a few key differences:

✅ More international visitors – Salamanca has always been a university town, but today it feels even more global.
✅ Modern cafés and co-working spaces are on the rise – Remote workers and digital nomads have contributed to this trend.
✅ Technology has made things easier – Navigation is smoother with Google Maps, digital train tickets, and convenient contactless payments.
✅ Cultural preservation efforts have strengthened – Many buildings have been beautifully restored, and historic sites are better maintained.

Yet, some things remain unchanged:

✔️ The golden glow of sandstone buildings at sunset.
✔️ Salamanca’s welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
✔️ The timeless charm of wandering through medieval streets.

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Tips for Visiting Salamanca

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-November) for mild weather.
• How Many Days? 1-2 days for a quick visit, 3-4 days for a deeper experience.
• Where to Stay? Near Plaza Mayor for convenience or closer to the university for a quieter, historic feel.
• What to Eat? Try hornazo (a local meat pie), churros con chocolate, and Salamanca’s famous cured ham.

Final Thoughts: Returning to Salamanca After 15 Years

Revisiting Salamanca was an incredibly special experience. Walking through its historic streets, I saw the city with new eyes—appreciating both its timeless beauty and the ways it has evolved.

Whether you’re a former student, a first-time visitor, or a traveler rediscovering a place from your past, Salamanca is a city that stays with you.

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Don’t miss my last blog Solo Female Adventure in La Guardia and discover more beautiful places to visit in Spain.

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