Ávila
Spain · Castile and León · 1132 m
Description
Ávila is one of the most remarkable historic cities in Castile and is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved medieval fortifications. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is distinguished by its 2.5-kilometre-long stone walls, Romanesque-Gothic fortress cathedral, numerous churches and monasteries, and exceptionally well-preserved medieval townscape. As the birthplace of the mystic Saint Teresa of Ávila, it is also an important centre of Spanish religious and cultural history. Its winding streets, sweeping views across the Castilian plateau, and traditional cuisine, famous for hearty meat dishes, create a distinctive atmosphere. Ávila is widely regarded as one of Spain’s best-preserved and most atmospheric medieval cities.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – July
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Old Town of Ávila with its Extra-Muros Churches (UNESCO)
- Medieval City Walls
- Ávila Cathedral
- Convent of Saint Teresa
- Basilica of San Vicente
- Royal Monastery of Saint Thomas
- Monastery of the Incarnation
- Church of San Pedro
- Church of San Andrés
- Church of San Segundo
- Church of San Nicolás
- Plaza del Mercado Chico
- Plaza del Mercado Grande
- Episcopal Palace
- Palace of the Verdugo
- Palace of Superunda
- Polentinos Palace
- Tower of Los Guzmanes
- Ávila City Gates
- Los Cuatro Postes Viewpoint
- Humilladero de Los Cuatro Postes
- Provincial Museum of Ávila
- Museum of Saint Teresa
- Ávila Museum of Nature
- Valle de Iruelas Nature Reserve(Day trip)
- Sierra de Gredos Regional Park(Day trip)
- El Burguillo Reservoir(Day trip)
- Chuletón de Ávila
- Judías del Barco de Ávila
- Yemas de Ávila
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Ávila, Guimorcondo