Gaze up at the majestic walls enclosing the heart of one of Spain’s most lively plazas where cobblestone paths pass upscale boutiques and restaurants serving traditional tapas.
The Plaza Mayor is the central nucleus around which the city of Salamanca spreads. The large square is a popular gathering point for locals and visitors, drawing sightseers with its majestic buildings of Baroque style. Sit at the outdoor tables of the many restaurants and cafés surrounding the square and watch people going by.
Stroll through the colonnades of the buildings and enter the various upscale shops. Browse jewelry and souvenirs in the windows and bring your kids for ice cream at one of the parlors. The plaza has nearly a square shape, with Baroque walls covering the entirety of its sides. Admire the symmetrical arches, columns and windows of the four levels of each wall.
Sit on one of the small benches in the central part of the plaza and read a book. Look up at the clock tower at the summit of the Baroque town hall to check the time.
Stay into the evening, when the arches and windows are bathed in golden light. Listen to the so-called Tunas, who sing and play acoustic music while dressed in period costumes. Use the plaza as a base for exploring the delights of the historic center.
Make your way to the shopping district of Calle Toro for a range of boutiques. Choose from the restaurants in the Calle de Concejo street, where you can find a range of international cuisine. Eat like a local with small tapas portions, with some wine or beer.
Note that the plaza, which is open to the public at all times, was constructed between 1729 and 1755. It was used for bullfighting until the late 1800s.
The Plaza Mayor is the central square of the city. Arrive at La Alamedilla railway station and walk west for 15 minutes or take a bus to the historic center. Visit other sights in the area, including the shell-covered Casa de las Conchas and La Clerecía, a stunning church at the Pontifical University of Salamanca.
