EXTREMADURA
Extremadura is the hidden heart of Spain, a land of vast plains, ancient history, and untouched nature. It is a region of quiet beauty and immense historical significance, from Roman ruins to medieval walled cities.
This land is where Spanish conquistadors were born, a place of stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Extremadura offers an authentic travel experience, a journey into Spain’s past, and a haven for nature lovers.
Most Popular Attractions
Cáceres City Core:
Cáceres Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, a remarkably preserved medieval walled city with a stunning array of palaces, towers, and churches.
Plaza Mayor: The main square of Cáceres, a vibrant hub surrounded by arcaded buildings and offering views of the historic quarter.
Concatedral de Santa María: The city’s main church, a Gothic structure with a rich collection of religious art.
Torre de Bujaco: A prominent Moorish tower offering excellent views of the Plaza Mayor.
Palacio de las Veletas: A palace housing the Cáceres Museum, featuring an impressive Moorish cistern.
Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo: A beautiful Renaissance palace with a striking façade.
Arco de la Estrella: One of the main gates into the walled city, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
Casa de los Caballos: A historic house with a courtyard featuring a well-preserved Romanesque arch.
Museo de Cáceres: Located in the Casa de las Veletas, this museum showcases the history and archaeology of the region.
Cáceres Province Countryside & Towns:
Trujillo: The birthplace of several conquistadors, a magnificent hilltop town with a stunning castle and a beautiful Plaza Mayor.
Guadalupe: Home to the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key pilgrimage destination.
Plasencia: A historic city with a beautiful old town, two cathedrals (one Romanesque, one Gothic), and a charming Plaza Mayor.
Parque Nacional de Monfragüe: A national park renowned for its spectacular scenery and as one of Europe’s best places for birdwatching, especially for raptors.
Valle del Jerte: A scenic valley famous for its stunning display of white cherry blossoms in the spring.
Hervás: A charming village in the Ambroz Valley, known for its remarkably preserved Jewish quarter.
Granadilla: A hauntingly beautiful ghost town, abandoned after the construction of a nearby reservoir.
Coria: A walled city with a magnificent cathedral and a Roman bridge that now stands on dry land.
Sierra de Gata: A beautiful mountain range known for its traditional villages and natural landscapes.
Alcántara: A town famous for its magnificent Roman bridge, a marvel of ancient engineering.
Madrigal de la Vera: A village in the La Vera region, known for its natural pools and waterfalls.
Badajoz City Core:
Alcazaba de Badajoz: A large Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Guadiana River.
Puerta de Palmas: A majestic city gate and a symbol of Badajoz, with two towers and a fortified bridge.
Plaza Alta: A striking square with arcaded buildings decorated with Mudéjar-style paintings.
Catedral de San Juan Bautista: The city’s cathedral, a fortress-like structure with a beautiful cloister.
Puente de Palmas: An impressive stone bridge crossing the Guadiana River, offering a great view of the city.
Ermita de la Soledad: A chapel dedicated to the patron saint of Badajoz.
Badajoz Province Countryside & Towns:
Mérida: A UNESCO World Heritage city and the “Spanish Rome,” with an incredible collection of Roman ruins, including the Roman Theatre, Amphitheater, and Temple of Diana.
Teatro Romano de Mérida: The best-preserved Roman theater in Spain, still used for performances today.
Anfiteatro Romano de Mérida: A large Roman amphitheater where gladiatorial games were once held.
Templo de Diana: A Roman temple in Mérida, dedicated to the Imperial Cult.
Conjunto Arqueológico de la Casa del Mitreo y Columbarios: A Roman house in Mérida with beautiful mosaics and a well-preserved Mithraic temple.
Zafra: Known as “Little Seville,” a town with a beautiful historic center, the Plaza Grande, and the impressive Palacio de los Duques de Feria.
Olivenza: A town with a unique mix of Spanish and Portuguese architecture, a legacy of its history.
Jerez de los Caballeros: A town with a rich Templar history and a spectacular fortress.
Fregenal de la Sierra: A beautiful town with a castle that houses a bullring.
Sierra Suroeste: A region known for its rolling hills, cork oak forests, and production of Iberian pork.
Embalse de Orellana: A large reservoir, known as the “Extremaduran Sea,” offering various water sports and a designated “Blue Flag” beach.
Medellín: The birthplace of Hernán Cortés, a town with a Roman theater and a large medieval castle.
Activities & Experiences
Discover the Walled City of Cáceres: Wander through the perfectly preserved medieval streets of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cáceres, a real-life set for shows like Game of Thrones.
Hike the Monfragüe National Park: Explore this breathtaking natural park, famous for its majestic raptors like the black vulture and Spanish imperial eagle. There are well-marked hiking trails and stunning viewpoints.
Visit the Roman Theatre of Mérida: Step back in time at one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Catch a summer festival and experience a live performance in this ancient amphitheater.
Go on a Birdwatching Excursion: Extremadura is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Join a guided tour to spot rare species in areas like Monfragüe or the plains of Cáceres and Badajoz.
Try Jamón Ibérico in a Dehesa: Take a tour of an Ibérico ham farm (dehesa) to learn about the free-roaming pigs and the acorn-filled forests that produce Spain’s most famous ham. A tasting is a must.
Explore the Monastery of Guadalupe: Visit this impressive monastery and pilgrimage site, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and a rich history.
Kayak or Canoe in the Tagus River: Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Tagus River, enjoying the scenic landscapes and spotting wildlife.
Go Stargazing in the Sierra de Gata: With its low light pollution, the Sierra de Gata region is a certified Starlight Reserve, making it an ideal place to observe the night sky.
Learn about the Spanish Conquistadors: Visit the towns of Trujillo and Medellín, the birthplaces of famous conquistadors like Francisco Pizarro and Hernán Cortés, and explore their impressive castles and squares.
Experience the Cherry Blossom Season in the Jerte Valley: If you visit in spring, witness the spectacular sight of over a million cherry trees in full bloom in the Jerte Valley, followed by the “Fiesta del Cerezo en Flor.”
Take a Cooking Class for Extremeño Cuisine: Learn to prepare hearty local dishes like migas extremeñas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo) or caldereta de cordero (lamb stew).
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended: Extremadura is a large region with a sparse population. A rental car is the best way to explore its diverse landscapes, from the sprawling plains to the mountainous north, and to visit the smaller, charming villages.
Intercity Buses: While a car offers the most flexibility, a reliable bus network connects the main cities and towns like Badajoz, Mérida, Cáceres, and Plasencia. Companies like ALSA operate these routes.
Trains: The train network is less developed than in other parts of Spain, with slower connections. However, trains do connect the major cities like Mérida and Cáceres, which can be an option if you prefer not to drive.
Getting Around Cities: The historic centers of Cáceres, Mérida, and Trujillo are compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
The Rhythm of the Siesta: Like in Andalusia, a siesta is a way of life in Extremadura. Many small businesses, shops, and even some restaurants close from roughly 2 PM to 5 PM. Plan your sightseeing around this.
Dining Times: Locals eat lunch between 2 PM and 4 PM and dinner well after 9 PM. Restaurants will be empty if you show up for dinner too early.
Hearty Cuisine: Extremaduran cuisine is known for its rich, rustic flavors. The region is the heart of Ibérico pork production, so be sure to try jamón, chorizo, and other pork products. Don’t miss local cheeses like Torta del Casar.
Natural Beauty: Extremadura is one of Spain’s most biodiverse regions. The spring wildflowers are stunning, and the autumn colors in the forests are equally impressive. Be prepared to enjoy the great outdoors and respect the natural environment.
Hidden Gems
- The Roman Aqueduct of Los Milagros: While the theater and amphitheater are the main attractions in Mérida, the well-preserved Roman aqueduct, with its impressive arches, is a stunning sight and a peaceful walk.
- The City of Trujillo: While it’s gaining popularity, Trujillo remains a more intimate historical city than Cáceres. Explore its main square and climb to the top of the castle for breathtaking views of the surrounding plains.
- Garganta de los Infiernos Natural Reserve: In the Jerte Valley, this stunning natural reserve features a series of waterfalls and rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. The name translates to “Hell’s Gorge,” but the scenery is heavenly.
- The Yuste Monastery: Located near the town of Cuacos de Yuste, this quiet monastery was the final residence of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. It’s a place of great historical significance and tranquil beauty.
Language: While you may find English spoken in major tourist spots, it’s less common in smaller towns. Learning a few Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience.
Top Restaurants
El Atrio de las Delicias [$15-$25] – A small, unassuming bar in the historic center of Cáceres, known for its excellent Iberian pork and traditional Extremaduran tapas.
Mesón El Tronco [$15-$25] – A classic and popular spot in Badajoz, specializing in grilled meats and traditional dishes, with a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Bar Los Segovianos [$15-$25] – Located in Mérida, this long-standing bar is a local institution, famous for its generously portioned tapas and traditional, no-frills ambiance.
La Troya [$20-$30] – A classic restaurant in the heart of Trujillo’s Plaza Mayor, renowned for its hearty traditional Extremaduran dishes and a setting filled with history.
El Figón de Eustaquio [$25-$35] – A historic restaurant in the old town of Cáceres, with a menu dedicated to traditional Extremaduran cuisine, including game meats and local specialties.
La Taberna de los Mundos [$20-$30] – A cozy and popular spot in Zafra, offering a menu of classic tapas with a focus on local ingredients and a great selection of regional wines.
Restaurante Las Barandas [$25-$35] – A well-regarded restaurant in Almendralejo, known for its traditional Extremaduran cuisine and high-quality local products, especially Iberian pork.
Corral del Rey [$20-$30] – Located in the charming town of Trujillo, this restaurant offers a traditional menu with a focus on local products and a very pleasant courtyard setting.
Restaurante La Cabaña [$20-$30] – A classic and highly-regarded place in the historic quarter of Plasencia, known for its traditional cuisine and rustic charm.
La Marina [$20-$30] – A local favorite in Badajoz for its excellent seafood and traditional Spanish dishes, offering a relaxed and authentic dining experience.
La Torre de Sande [$25-$40] – Housed in a 15th-century palace in Cáceres, this restaurant offers traditional cuisine with a great selection of regional products and an impressive setting.
Tapería El Rincón de Ana [$20-$30] – A popular tapas bar in Badajoz, serving classic Spanish tapas and regional specialties in a lively, modern environment.
Mesón La Judería [$20-$30] – Located in the heart of Mérida’s historic center, this traditional restaurant is known for its authentic Extremaduran stews and regional dishes.
El Boteín [$25-$35] – A family-run restaurant in Mérida, specializing in traditional Extremaduran cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
Casa Juan [$25-$35] – A well-known traditional restaurant in Montánchez, a town famous for its ham, serving local specialties and an excellent variety of Iberian products.
Restaurante Oquendo [$30-$45] – A classic restaurant in the heart of Cáceres, known for its traditional and high-quality Extremaduran cuisine, with a focus on local products.
Restaurante Vía de la Plata [$25-$40] – A traditional restaurant located in the historic center of Plasencia, with a reputation for excellent regional cuisine and game meats.
Restaurante Lú [$25-$40] – This restaurant in Cáceres, with a sister tapas bar, is known for its high-quality, traditional Extremaduran food in an elegant and formal setting.
Restaurante Marchiviruela [$25-$40] – A classic and traditional restaurant in Badajoz, highly-regarded for its regional cuisine and a strong emphasis on top-quality local products.
Restaurante El Pato [$30-$45] – A historic restaurant in Cáceres that has been serving traditional Extremaduran cuisine for decades, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Restaurante Pizarro [$25-$40] – Located in Trujillo’s beautiful Plaza Mayor, this restaurant offers a traditional menu with a focus on local products and a pleasant atmosphere.
Restaurante El Parador de Guadalupe [$35-$50] – Situated within the Parador hotel, this restaurant serves classic and refined regional cuisine in a stunning and historic setting.
La Cacharrería [$20-$30] – A trendy and modern tapas bar in Cáceres, with a menu that puts a creative and youthful spin on traditional Extremaduran tapas.
La Fusa [$25-$35] – A popular spot in Cáceres known for its innovative and creative tapas, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques in a lively setting.
La Carbonería [$20-$35] – Located in Mérida, this modern bar offers a creative take on traditional Spanish and Extremaduran tapas, with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
A de Arco [$25-$40] – A modern and creative restaurant in Mérida, known for its inventive dishes and elegant presentation, offering a new perspective on regional cuisine.
La Puerta de Tannhäuser [$25-$40] – This restaurant in Plasencia, with a Michelin Guide mention, blends local products with creative, international flair in a charming setting.
Tentación [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in Plasencia that has become a reference for its creative cuisine, with a menu that beautifully reinterprets classic Extremaduran dishes.
Guria [$30-$50] – A modern restaurant in Badajoz, known for its creative approach to traditional Spanish and Basque cuisine, with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
De Loreto [$30-$50] – A well-regarded modern restaurant in Mérida, known for its inventive and high-quality cuisine that uses local ingredients in new and exciting ways.
El Trasiego [$30-$50] – A popular and modern restaurant in Mérida, offering creative tapas and dishes that blend traditional Extremaduran flavors with a contemporary twist.
Grana [$30-$50] – A modern and elegant restaurant in Plasencia that offers a creative tasting menu focused on seasonal and local produce, with a strong emphasis on presentation.
Atelier Gastronómico Lío [$30-$60] – A modern bistro in Badajoz with a creative and inventive menu that offers a unique dining experience, focusing on fusion cuisine and bold flavors.
Restaurante Templo de Diana [$50-$80] – Located in a stunning setting facing the Roman Temple of Diana in Mérida, this restaurant offers high-end, contemporary cuisine.
Dromo [$60-$90] – A fine dining restaurant in Badajoz, led by a local chef and known for its high-quality, contemporary cuisine that celebrates Extremaduran products.
Alacena [$70-$100] – A restaurant in Cáceres with a Michelin Guide mention, offering a refined dining experience with a menu that blends traditional flavors with modern techniques.
Versátil [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located in the small town of Zarza de Granadilla, known for its creative and refined tasting menu that reinterprets traditional cuisine.
Atrio [$150-$250] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant and Relais & Châteaux hotel in Cáceres, led by chef Toño Pérez, offering one of the most prestigious and innovative dining experiences in Spain.
Mercado de San Francisco [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a market hall in Cáceres with various food stalls offering a wide range of tapas, perfect for a casual and varied meal.
El Requeté [$20-$30] – A popular, no-frills bar in Cáceres famous for its delicious and large pringá sandwiches and other traditional local fare.
Mesón La Torre [$20-$30] – A unique spot in Cáceres with a pleasant terrace, serving traditional tapas and good local wine in a very authentic setting.
Gastrobar Casa Lolo [$20-$35] – A popular and modern gastrobar in Badajoz with a focus on creative tapas and an extensive list of wines, including local ones.
El Palacio de la Olla [$20-$35] – A restaurant in the historic center of Cáceres, famous for its excellent variety of artisanal croquettes and traditional Extremaduran dishes.
La Cocina de Zafra [$25-$40] – A charming spot in the beautiful town of Zafra, known for its focus on local ingredients and a menu that blends traditional and modern.
La Venta de Pizarro [$25-$40] – Located just outside of Cáceres, this restaurant is known for its excellent grilled meats and traditional Extremaduran cuisine in a rustic, countryside setting.
Restaurante El Rincón de la Olla [$25-$40] – A local favorite in Cáceres for its delicious traditional dishes and a great variety of Iberian pork specialties.
El Vivero [$30-$50] – A restaurant in Plasencia with a beautiful setting and a menu that focuses on high-quality, local products, especially grilled meats and game.
El Mirador de Monfragüe [$35-$50] – A restaurant with a stunning view near the Monfragüe National Park, offering traditional Extremaduran cuisine with a focus on game meat and local products.
Restaurante Tapería Lú [$20-$30] – A more casual version of the main restaurant, this tapas bar in Cáceres offers high-quality local dishes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Restaurante La Olla de la Abuela [$20-$30] – Located in Hervás, this restaurant is famous for its traditional food from the north of Extremadura, especially its stews.
Restaurante Hospedería Hurdes Reales [$25-$40] – This restaurant in the heart of the Hurdes region offers a menu of traditional mountain cuisine and local products.
El Chiringuito de la Dehesa [$20-$30] – A unique and rustic spot in a dehesa (oak pasture) environment near Llerena, known for its traditional grilled meats and local products.
Restaurante Siete Puertas [$25-$40] – A classic restaurant in the town of Villanueva de la Serena, known for its traditional Extremaduran cuisine.
Restaurante La Abuela [$25-$40] – A simple and traditional restaurant in the charming town of Fregenal de la Sierra, known for its home-cooked meals and local specialties.
La Dehesa de la Vera [$25-$40] – A restaurant in the beautiful region of La Vera, known for its traditional food and the use of local ingredients, including paprika.
Restaurante La Casona de Zafra [$25-$40] – Located in a historic building in Zafra, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern Extremaduran cuisine.
La Cocina del Rincón [$20-$35] – A traditional bar and restaurant in Trujillo with a great terrace, offering classic dishes and local specialties.
Restaurante El Convento [$25-$40] – A traditional restaurant in the town of Jarandilla de la Vera, known for its delicious home-cooked meals.
Restaurante El Mirador [$25-$40] – Located in the historic town of Guadalupe, this restaurant has a beautiful view of the monastery and serves traditional local cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Gran Café de Cáceres: Located in the iconic Plaza Mayor of Cáceres, this legendary establishment features stunning high ceilings and serves expertly crafted gin and tonics in a classic, historic atmosphere.
La Selva: A tropical oasis in the heart of Badajoz, this bar is famous for its exotic decor and creative cocktails that use fresh, seasonal fruits.
The Blue Spirit: Situated near the Roman Theatre in Mérida, this sleek bar specializes in premium spirits and offers a refined setting for a pre-dinner cocktail.
La Habana: A vibrant, Cuban-themed spot in Plasencia’s old town, known for serving the best mojitos and daiquiris in the province of Cáceres.
Terraza del Hotel Mérida Medea: Offering a more modern vibe, this rooftop terrace in Mérida provides panoramic views of the city skyline alongside a professional menu of contemporary long drinks.
Mastropiero Gastrobar y Jardín: Found in the Jewish Quarter of Cáceres, this venue features a beautiful hidden garden perfect for sipping artisan vermouths and signature cocktails.
Mercado Bernal: A trendy, industrial-chic space in Badajoz that combines a gourmet food market with a high-end cocktail bar, ideal for a cosmopolitan evening.
Baraka: Located in the center of Cáceres, this cozy lounge is celebrated for its intimate lighting and an extensive menu of international cocktails and herbal teas.
Los Siete Jardines: Tucked away in the historic walls of Cáceres, this bohemian bar offers several terraced levels with romantic views and a relaxed drink menu.
Dados: A popular meeting point in the Valdepasillas neighborhood of Badajoz, known for its professional cocktail service and lively afternoon “tardeo” atmosphere.
Corner Shop: A stylish, British-inspired pub in Cáceres that serves as a bridge between a traditional bar and a modern cocktail lounge, located just steps from the old city.
Kiosco de la Música: Set within the lush Parque de Cánovas in Cáceres, this outdoor pavilion bar provides a refreshing setting for classic cocktails under the trees.
El Alcaraván: A unique spot built into the rock of the old city walls in Cáceres, offering a mystical atmosphere for enjoying local wines and mixed drinks.
Chupitería El Gato: A high-energy “shooter” bar in the student district of Badajoz, offering over 100 varieties of shots and mini-cocktails to kick off the night.
La Traviata: Located in Mérida, this elegant café-bar transforms in the evening into a sophisticated lounge known for its excellent service and gin selection.
Discoteca Mia: The premier nightlife destination in Badajoz, featuring a massive dance floor, state-of-the-art lighting, and the best commercial and house DJs in the region.
Sala Babel: A staple of the Cáceres nightlife scene located in the city center, offering a mix of alternative music, live concerts, and themed DJ sets.
Coco Loco: Situated in the heart of Mérida, this bustling club is the go-to spot for reggaeton and Latin hits, drawing a high-energy crowd every weekend.
Horus: A luxury nightclub in Badajoz that offers exclusive VIP areas and a sophisticated dress code, located in the Sinforiano Madroñero area.
Velvet: Located in Cáceres, this stylish club is known for its modern interior design and a music policy that leans towards indie, pop, and electronic classics.
Sala Mercantil: A legendary venue in Badajoz that functions as both a live music hall and a late-night club, famous for its rock and alternative sessions.
Alborada: Found in the center of Mérida, this long-standing club offers a classic discotheque experience with a mix of Spanish pop and international hits.
Capitán Haddock: A nautical-themed club in Cáceres located near the university district, popular for its vibrant student nights and eclectic music mix.
O’Hara’s: Located in Badajoz, this large Irish-themed venue transitions from a pub into a full-scale club at night, featuring multiple bars and a large dance area.
La Isla: An open-air summer club located near the Guadiana River in Badajoz, offering a spectacular outdoor party experience with tropical vibes and house music.