Salamanca: Day Trips and Tours from Madrid

Taking a day trip to Salamanca from Madrid is your chance to explore one of Spain’s lesser-known regions. This ancient northwestern city just oozes personality, with historic monuments and photogenic squares all vying for your attention.

While you wander around grand plazas and visit Gothic churches, your guide will regale you with tales about Salamanca’s past. You can feel the passage of time here – it’s right at your fingertips.

Here's all you need to know about Salamanca, one of the most exciting day trips from Madrid.

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid?

You’ll find Salamanca in the northwest of Spain, at the heart of the Castilla y León region. It’s just a couple of hours from Madrid.

From Madrid to Salamanca by car

If you have a rental vehicle, it’s easy to reach Salamanca from Madrid. Head out of the city on the A6, then take the AP51 and A50 into Salamanca.

The journey to Salamanca from Madrid should take you around 2 hours.

From Madrid to Salamanca by bus

If you prefer to travel on public transport, you’re in luck. Avanza Bus offers a direct service between Madrid and Salamanca, starting from both the Príncipe Pio and Chamartín stations.

The trip takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Guided tour to Salamanca from Madrid

For a stress-free day out, booking a guided tour to Salamanca is your best bet. You’ll depart from a convenient meeting point in Madrid, with round-trip transport provided.

Salamanca day trips last a whole day so you can experience as much of the city as possible.

What is the typical itinerary?

Salamanca day trips begin in a central location in Madrid, where you’ll meet your guide and set off on your adventure. If you’ve booked a private Salamanca tour, you will be collected from your hotel. Transport is by air-conditioned minivan to keep you comfortable in summer.

Enjoy a scenic drive north into the rural region of Castilla y León. After a couple of hours, you’ll arrive in Salamanca, where the medieval city awaits. There will be a guided walking tour of the historic center, including a visit to the cathedral and the Plaza Mayor.

You’ll have some free time for lunch – your guide can suggest some local restaurants where you can try traditional food from the region. There are plenty of charming cafes too if you fancy something a bit lighter.

On the return journey, most excursions make a stop in the city of Avila. Here, you’ll be treated to another walking tour where the cathedral and basilica are the main events.

The tour arrives back in Madrid in the evening, in time for a late dinner. You’ll be dropped off at the same place where the trip departed from this morning.

What kind of tours are available to go to Salamanca?

There are a couple of options for Salamanca day trips – group tours and private excursions. You can choose according to your budget and travel preferences. Most experiences include a visit to the city of Avila as well as Salamanca.

Group day trip to Salamanca plus Avila from Madrid

Small group Salamanca excursions are an easy way to explore this historic northern city. You’ll be journeying with other travelers – expect up to 30 participants on each trip. These excursions are the cheapest way to enjoy a guided day tour of Salamanca.

There will be a professional guide accompanying you on the tour, so you can ask questions as you go. You’ll learn about the history of Salamanca and Avila and stop at scenic points for photos during walking tours.

Private tour to Salamanca from Madrid

Ramp up the luxury with a private day tour to Salamanca from Madrid. You will have the vehicle and guide to yourself, with round-trip transfers for the ultimate convenience.

On these exclusive experiences, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests and requirements. Just let your guide know if there is anything specific you’d like to see or do. Private trips are a great way to avoid the crowds too.

How much does a day trip to Salamanca from Madrid cost?

A small group jaunt to Salamanca is priced at €90 per participant for a full-day tour from Madrid. This covers transport in an air-conditioned vehicle and a multi-lingual guide. Entry tickets to Salamanca Cathedral and city walking excursions are usually included, but hotel transfers are not.

A private Salamanca day trip from Madrid costs €570 per person and includes an exclusive vehicle, hotel pickups and a guide. The itinerary will be personalized, and you’ll have a 2-hour private tour in both Salamanca and Avila. Entrance fees and food are at your own expense.

What will you see and do?

Founded in the 12th century, Salamanca is famous for its intricate architecture and atmospheric old town streets. This popular university town boasts several historic attractions and photogenic sights that can be enjoyed during guided walking tours in Salamanca.

Plaza Mayor

This large square is located in the heart of Salamanca and is one of the main gathering places in the city. Surrounded by ornate Baroque buildings on all sides, the plaza is a must-see on any Salamanca day tour.

One of the most impressive sites is the City Hall, with its sweeping granite arches and intricately carved façades. The square was declared a National Monument in 1935 and it’s easy to see why.

Salamanca Cathedral

There are actually two cathedrals in Salamanca – an old one and a new one. They are joined together so you’ll be able to see both at the same time.

This beautiful building is known for its intricate carvings and eye-catching dome. The oldest part of the cathedral dates to the 12th century, with Romanesque features to behold in the ornate Gallo Tower.

University of Salamanca

Salamanca is a university city, and its student population brings a unique vibe that is both multicultural and lively. This is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with architecture and heritage to match.

Look out for the secret stone carvings as well as the grand staircase and church. If you want to climb the tower, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic city views from the top.

Casa de las Conchas

Built in the 15th century, this antiquated urban palace is still resplendent with its Gothic and Renaissance designs. Known as the “House of Shells”, the unusual building boasts an exterior that is covered with carvings of scallop shells.

See if you can spot the dolphins and vegetables too – it’s quite an eclectic mix of ornamentation.

When is the best time to visit Salamanca?

You can enjoy a day trip to Salamanca at any time of year, but the best weather period is between June and October. This is when the city is at its warmest and the long daylight hours are ideal for exploring.

To avoid the crowds, come in spring or fall when the temperatures are still pleasant.

What are the other day trips from Madrid?

• Toledo day tours from Madrid
• Segovia day trips from Madrid
• El Escorial day trips from Madrid
• Valley of the Fallen day trips from Madrid

Travel tips

• Take sunscreen, water and a cap in summer as it can get very hot when you’re out exploring on foot.
• Book your day tour to Salamanca online so you can compare prices and find the cheapest deals.
• Some operators require you to present your passport or ID card on arrival – remember to take this with you.
• The cobblestone streets may present some difficulties for people with limited mobility.