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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Extremadura, Spain

Iconic Landmarks

The Ciudad Monumental, Caceres’ Old Town, is its main attraction, a living museum of architectural styles and historical periods.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has a well-preserved medieval walled city, an immersive experience.

Highlights

  • Plaza Mayor: The bustling main square, just outside the historic walls, a lively hub. It connects the modern city with the Old Town via the Arco de la Estrella.
  • Arco de la Estrella (Arch of the Star): The main entrance to the Old Town, a grand archway directly into the historic core.
  • Concatedral de Santa María: The city's main cathedral, showing Gothic architecture.
  • Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo: A prominent Renaissance palace with an impressive façade, showing the wealth of noble families.

Landmarks & Tips

Visitor Information & Insider Tips for Old Town

  • The Old Town area is open 24/7 for walking and exploration. Individual buildings (palaces, churches, museums) have specific operating hours and admission fees.
  • Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the cobbled streets.
  • Explore the narrow, winding alleys early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photography.
  • The golden hours (just after sunrise, just before sunset) enhance the warm tones of the stone buildings.
  • Climb the Torre de Bujaco for panoramic views of the Old Town rooftops and the surrounding landscape.
  • Discover different perspectives by walking along the interior walkways (Adarves) of the city walls.

Concatedral de Santa María & Plaza Mayor

  • Concatedral Hours: Vary seasonally. Generally, expect hours from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PM. Always check local listings.
  • Concatedral Fees: A small entrance fee, typically €2-€5, applies. This fee sometimes includes an audio guide with historical context.
  • Concatedral Tips: Look at the statue of San Pedro de Alcántara outside the cathedral. The interior has an outstanding altarpiece and various chapels.
  • Plaza Mayor Tips: An excellent spot for people-watching. This is often the first view of the Old Town for many visitors.

Other remarkable landmarks include Casa del Sol, Palacio de Mayoralgo, and Torre de Bujaco, all within the historic core.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Museo de Cáceres: In the Casa de las Veletas within the Old Town. It has collections from prehistory to Roman and Moorish periods (archaeology), traditional Extremaduran life (ethnography), and fine arts. The Arab cistern (aljibe) is an outstanding and atmospheric feature.
  • Fundación Helga de Alvear - Museo de Arte Contemporáneo: Features a significant collection of contemporary art, including works by prominent international and Spanish artists. It provides a striking contrast to the ancient city. Free admission for all visitors.
  • Casa Museo Árabe Yusuf Al Burch: Recreates a typical Arab house, giving insights into the city's Muslim heritage and daily life during the Moorish period. Check locally for hours/fees.
  • Palacio de Carvajal: A historic palace with the Provincial Tourism Office and exhibition spaces. It has a beautiful patio with a well and an ancient fig tree, a tranquil escape within the Old Town. Often has free entry to its courtyard.

Historical Sites

  • Muralla (City Walls)

    Of Roman origin, these largely preserved medieval walls encircle the Old Town. They showcase centuries of defensive architecture. Walk along accessible sections for unique views of rooftops and courtyards.

  • Torre de Bujaco (Bujaco Tower)

    A Moorish watchtower from Plaza Mayor. It is a city symbol of the past and has unparalleled panoramic views of the Old Town and the square. A small fee for entry.

  • Palacios and Casas Señoriales

    Numerous aristocratic palaces are throughout the Old Town. Their impressive facades, ornate doorways, and grand courtyards are visible from the street, demonstrating the wealth and power of noble families.

  • Jewish Quarter (Judería Vieja)

    In the "Barrio de San Antón," a labyrinth of narrow streets keeping the layout of the historic Jewish community. This area gives a glimpse into Caceres' diverse cultural heritage. Explore Calle de la Amargura and Calle de la Cruz.

  • Religious and Spiritual Sites

    Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Gothic church), Iglesia de Santiago (Romanesque-Gothic with striking altarpiece). Several active convents sell traditional sweets ("dulces de convento") made by cloistered nuns, an unique cultural interaction.

Natural Attractions

While Caceres is known for its urban heritage, the surrounding region has attractive natural escapes.

Natural Escapes Near Caceres

  • Parque del Príncipe

    A city park within Caceres, with walking paths, ponds, and green spaces. Ideal for relaxation, a casual stroll, or a family picnic.

  • Parque Natural de Cornalvo

    (Day trip distance, approx. 50 km south) A natural park with cork oak forests and a large reservoir. Suitable for easy hiking, nature observation, and birdwatching. It has a peaceful rural environment.

  • Monfragüe National Park

    (Day trip distance, approximately 60 km / 1 hour drive northeast) Famous for its exceptional birdwatching, especially raptors like vultures, eagles, and storks. An UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it has dramatic rock formations, Mediterranean forest, and the Tagus River. Visit the Salto del Gitano viewpoint for the best bird sightings. Consider bringing Binoculars and a field guide.

  • Adarves

    These are the walkways along the inside of the city walls. They have unique views of the Old Town's rooftops, hidden courtyards, and architecture. They create a different perspective than walking the streets below.

  • Jardín de Ulloa

    A small, tranquil garden within the Old Town, often overlooked by tourists. It is a peaceful oasis to relax amidst the historic surroundings.

  • Mirador de la Casa de las Cigüeñas

    A lesser-known viewpoint with excellent opportunities to observe storks nesting on rooftops, a common and beloved sight in Caceres.

Casa de los Caballos

Part of the Helga de Alvear Museum, this historic building hosts contemporary art exhibitions, blending ancient architecture and modern creativity.

Puerta de Mérida

One of the less-frequented gates in the city walls. It leads to interesting residential areas just outside the historic core, giving a glimpse into local life away from the main tourist paths.

Explore Beyond

While the Old Town is the main draw, Caceres has hidden corners and attractions that reward exploration. Seek out these quieter, equally charming spots.

More Iconic Landmarks

The Old Town of Caceres is an UNESCO World Heritage site, offering an immersive experience through its remarkably preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.

  • Casa del Sol: Another striking noble house within the walls, known for its unique facade.
  • Palacio de Mayoralgo: A large palace with a distinct architectural style and historical significance.
  • Muralla (City Walls): The ancient defensive walls, Roman in origin and largely preserved, encircle the Old Town, symbolizing centuries of protection.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Caceres holds several quieter, yet equally charming, spots worth discovering for a understanding of the city's character.

These often-overlooked locations showcase unique perspectives and tranquil escapes from the bustling main attractions.

Historic Pathways

The Adarves are the walkways along the inside of the city walls, offering unique vantage points of the historic center.

Adarves & Views

  • They have unique views of the Old Town's rooftops, hidden courtyards, and architecture.
  • They create a different perspective than walking the streets below, perfect for unique photography.
  • Many parts are incorporated into buildings, demonstrating layered history.

Tranquil Escapes

Find peaceful oases within the historic core, away from the main tourist paths.

Gardens & Viewpoints

  • Jardín de Ulloa: A small, tranquil garden within the Old Town, often overlooked by tourists. It is a peaceful oasis to relax amidst the historic surroundings.
  • Mirador de la Casa de las Cigüeñas: A lesser-known viewpoint with excellent opportunities to observe storks nesting on rooftops, a common and beloved sight in Caceres.
  • Puerta de Mérida: One of the less-frequented gates in the city walls. It leads to interesting residential areas just outside the historic core, giving a glimpse into local life.

Cultural Contrasts

Caceres is a city where ancient history meets modern art, offering surprising cultural contrasts.

Art & History Blended

  • Casa de los Caballos (House of the Horses): Part of the Helga de Alvear Museum, this historic building hosts contemporary art exhibitions, blending ancient architecture and modern creativity.
  • Fundación Helga de Alvear: A modern art museum offering a striking contrast to the ancient city, with prominent international and Spanish artists.
  • Museo de Cáceres: Housed in Casa de las Veletas, a 17th-century palace over an Arab fortress, it has collections spanning archaeology, ethnography, and fine arts.
  • Casa Museo Árabe Yusuf Al Burch: Recreates a typical Arab house, giving insights into the city's Muslim heritage and daily life.

Exploring Beyond the Obvious

These hidden spots offer a different perspective, allowing you to connect with the city's quieter, authentic rhythm.

Engagement

  • Engage with locals in residential areas near Puerta de Mérida for a non-touristy experience.
  • Discover the stories behind the lesser-known noble houses and their families by observing their facades.
  • Capture unique photos from the Adarves, showing hidden courtyards and architectural details not visible from the streets.

Museum Hours & Fees Overview

Museo de Cáceres

  • Hours: Typically Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM-2:30 PM and 4:00 PM-7:30 PM (check for seasonal variations). Sunday 10:00 AM-2:30 PM. Closed Mondays.
  • Fees: Free for EU citizens, a small fee for non-EU citizens (typically €1-€2).

Fundación Helga de Alvear

  • Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM-2:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PM. Sunday 10:00 AM-2:30 PM. Closed Mondays.
  • Fees: Free admission for all visitors.

Beyond The Walls

Caceres is a city where ancient history meets modern art, and its surrounding region boasts diverse natural landscapes. Explore beyond the city walls for more adventures.

Parque del Príncipe

A city park within Caceres, with walking paths, ponds, and green spaces. Ideal for relaxation, a casual stroll, or a family picnic.

Parque Natural de Cornalvo

(Day trip distance, approx. 50 km south) A natural park with cork oak forests and a large reservoir. Suitable for easy hiking, nature observation, and birdwatching.

Monfragüe National Park

(Day trip distance, approximately 60 km / 1 hour drive northeast) Famous for its exceptional birdwatching, especially raptors like vultures and eagles. An UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Monfragüe Park Details

Features

Monfragüe features dramatic rock formations, Mediterranean forest, and the Tagus River. It's a prime location for nature photography.

Find guided tours

Birdwatching Hotspots

Visit the Salto del Gitano viewpoint for the best bird sightings. The park also has several hiking trails and a visitor center in Villarreal de San Carlos.

Get binoculars

Old Town Highlights Review

The Old Town, or Ciudad Monumental, is Caceres's core attraction, brimming with historic wonders.

Main Points

  • Plaza Mayor: The bustling main square, linking modern and historic Caceres.
  • Arco de la Estrella: The grand entrance to the historic core.
  • Concatedral de Santa María: The Gothic city cathedral.

Noble Houses & Walls

Many aristocratic palaces dot the Old Town, demonstrating historical wealth.

Architectural Gems

  • Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo: A prominent Renaissance palace.
  • Casa del Sol: Another striking noble house.
  • Muralla (City Walls): Ancient defensive walls, Roman in origin and largely preserved.
  • Torre de Bujaco: A Moorish watchtower with panoramic views.

Additional Tips

Caceres offers diverse cultural and natural experiences. Plan your visit to maximize exploration.

For tickets and tours, visit GetYourGuide.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Caceres holds several quieter, yet equally charming, spots. These often-overlooked locations showcase unique perspectives and tranquil escapes from the bustling main attractions.

Hidden Pathways & Gardens

Discover the tranquil sides of the Old Town, offering unique perspectives and peaceful moments.

Adarves & Jardín de Ulloa

  • Adarves: Walkways along the inside of the city walls, for unique views of rooftops and hidden courtyards. They create a different perspective.
  • Jardín de Ulloa: A small, tranquil garden within the Old Town, often overlooked. It is a peaceful oasis to relax amidst historic surroundings.
  • Mirador de la Casa de las Cigüeñas: A lesser-known viewpoint with excellent opportunities to observe storks nesting on rooftops.

Beyond the Tourist Trail

Explore areas that give a glimpse into local life and unique cultural blends.

Local Life & Modern Art

  • Puerta de Mérida: One of the less-frequented gates. It leads to interesting residential areas just outside the historic core, giving a glimpse into local life away from main tourist paths.
  • Casa de los Caballos (House of the Horses): Part of the Helga de Alvear Museum, this historic building hosts contemporary art exhibitions, blending ancient architecture and modern creativity.
  • Jewish Quarter (Judería Vieja): In the "Barrio de San Antón," a labyrinth of narrow streets keeping the layout of the historic Jewish community. This area gives a glimpse into Caceres' diverse cultural heritage.

Muralla & Bujaco Tower

The ancient city walls and watchtower are symbols of Caceres's long history.

Defensive Architecture

  • Muralla (City Walls): Of Roman origin, these largely preserved medieval walls encircle the Old Town. They showcase centuries of defensive architecture.
  • Torre de Bujaco (Bujaco Tower): A Moorish watchtower from Plaza Mayor. It is a city symbol of the past and has unparalleled panoramic views.
  • A small fee for entry and the climb to the top of Torre de Bujaco. The climb is not strenuous.

These structures tell the story of Caceres's strategic past and offer compelling views for visitors.

Palaces & Nobility

Caceres's Old Town is filled with aristocratic palaces, reflecting the city's wealthy past.

Noble Residences

  • Numerous aristocratic palaces are throughout the Old Town (e.g., Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo, Palacio de Mayoralgo, Casa del Sol, Palacio de las Cigüeñas).
  • Many are privately owned or for official uses, limiting interior access. However, their impressive facades, ornate doorways, and often grand courtyards are visible from the street, demonstrating the wealth and power of the noble families.

These grand buildings are a testament to the city's rich history and the powerful families who shaped it.

Religious & Spiritual Sites

Caceres is home to beautiful churches and active convents, some offering unique cultural interactions.

Sacred Spaces

  • Iglesia de San Juan Bautista: A Gothic church near the Old Town. It has impressive altarpieces and sculptures.
  • Iglesia de Santiago: A Romanesque-Gothic church known for its striking altarpiece by Alonso Berruguete.
  • Conventos (Convents): Several active convents sell traditional sweets ("dulces de convento") made by cloistered nuns. You purchase these delicacies through a rotating turnstile, keeping cloistered traditions and creating an unique cultural interaction.

These sites offer a glimpse into Caceres's spiritual life and historical religious traditions.

Museum and Cultural Institution Overview

Museo de Cáceres

Located in the Casa de las Veletas within the Old Town, a beautiful 17th-century palace over an Arab fortress. It has collections spanning archaeology, ethnography, and fine arts.

Fundación Helga de Alvear

Features a significant collection of contemporary art. It provides a striking contrast to the ancient city. Free admission for all visitors.

Palacio de Carvajal

A historic palace with the Provincial Tourism Office and exhibition spaces. It has a beautiful patio with a well and an ancient fig tree, a tranquil escape within the Old Town.

Plan Your Sightseeing

Caceres offers diverse attractions from ancient walls to modern art. Prioritizing your visits and wearing comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets will make for a more enjoyable exploration.