Hotel with views over the old city (4*)
The Parador de Salamanca, on the edge of the city, is in a striking modern building on the left bank of the River Tormes, with stunning views across the river to the old town – a particularly fine sight at night when it is floodlit at night. The Parador de Salamanca provides an elegant, spacious and comfortable base from which to explore this fascinating city. Tastefully decorated throughout with much use of marble, the hotel has a fine garden with a seasonal swimming pool and terrace. The lounge areas, as well as the majority of the bedrooms, also offer fantastic panoramic views through their large windows. The Salamanca Parador also houses modern amenities such as a sauna and a gym, making it the perfect place to unwind after a busy day exploring the delights of the city. The Parador in Salamanca is situated a short walk across the Roman bridge on the opposite side of the river to the city centre, there is direct access to the bridge from the garden and it connects to the old quarter and cathedral. There is a garage and outdoor parking at this Parador.
Keytours tip:
The history of Salamanca goes back to before the Carthaginians (it was captured by Hannibal in the 3rd century B.C.), and became an important commercial centre under the Romans. The city is home to the famous university founded in 1218 which is the oldest in Spain and is extremely popular for overseas students wishing to learn the Spanish language. The impressive Cathedral which dominates the city's skyline is in fact comprised of 2 churches joined together. The older one was founded in the 12th century and was built in a traditional Romanesque style and the newer one from the 16th century onwards was constructed in a contrasting Gothic and Baroque style. This is just one of many magnificent buildings to see in Salamanca, the vast arcaded Plaza Mayor located in the centre is also a very popular attraction with cameos of important historical Spanish figures carved between its arches. Other building of note include the 15th century Casa de las Conchas (Shell House), a beautiful building covered in over 300 stone-carved shells which houses Salamanca's public library, and the Las Dueñas Convent which was founded by Dominican nuns in the early 15th century, today it still houses a Dominican order and is famous for its peaceful cloister and homemade sweets.
The beautiful glowing sandstone used in the old quarter has earned Salamanca the name ‘La Ciudad Dorada’ – the Golden City, and in 2002 Salamanca was named the European Capital of Culture, jointly with Bruges. In 1988, the city centre was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its wonderful historical architecture. Salamanca is home to a great selection of bars and restaurants. Salamancan cuisine is greatly influenced by the diversity and history of the area, this is particularly shown in their traditional dishes as well as the delicious selection of tapas on offer.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Restaurant opening times:
Breakfast: 7.30 to 11.00
Lunch: 13.30 to 16.00
Dinner: 20.30 to 23.00. It may be possible to arrive up to 22.30 and still enjoy a meal.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 until 23.30.
Located to the south of the city at a privileged panoramic viewpoint. From Zamora head towards Béjar and Portugal, and from Madrid take the N-VI to Sanchidrián and Salamanca. The Parador is on the left, before entering the city.
Free exterior parking and garage parking (for a daily charge) available and facilities for charging electric vehicles, the cost of which is payable locally.
The largest of Spain's 17 Autonomous Communities, Castilla y León is unsurprisingly home to some of the countries most important cities, historic cultural sites and and 15 Paradors, so you can plan a leisurely itinerary across the region.