Best things to do in Extremadura Spain a true European treasure

Experiencing Extremadura is a journey into the heart of old Spain, from the country’s finest Roman ruins to mysterious medieval cities and ancient monasteries. Extremadura is famous for its picturesque countryside and villages, plentiful historical sites, stunning architecture, winding streets, and breathtaking views.

At one time it was an essential part of the Roman Empire. Extremadura is a region in southwestern Spain bordered by Portugal. It has so much to offer and surprisingly is not well known. It’s a true European treasure waiting to be discovered.

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Best things to do in Extremadura Spain

Visit storybook cities

The cities Mérida, Cáceres, Plasencia and Trujillo rank among some of Spain’s most beautifully preserved historical settlements. Many of the towns in Extremadura have a storybook feel or look like a scene from Game of Thrones with their fairy tale castles, medieval churches, Gothic cathedrals and ancient monasteries.

The storybook city of Cáceres is one of Spain’s most beautifully preserved historical settlements in Extremadura. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Interior of the ancient Plasencia Cathedral. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Despite being Spain’s most overlooked region for international travelers, Extremadura is a perfect destination for rich history, fantastic architecture and nature lovers. In fact, it proudly boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Mérida’s impressive Roman Ruins, Cáceres’ magnificent Medieval City, and Guadalupe’s Royal Monastery.

Mérida’s impressive Roman Ruins

The ancient city of Mérida was founded in 25 BC and became one of the Roman Empire’s major capitals in Spain. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the largest archaeological sites in Spain. Walk along ancient streets viewing ruins of  buildings.  Built between 16 and 15 BC, its monumental theater could seat up to 6,000 spectators.

The Roman Ruins of Merida a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

The Roman Ruins of Merida is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

UNESCO World Heritage Site – Cáceres’ magnificent Medieval City

Cáceres’ is an amazing city displaying a blend of Roman, Northern Gothic, Italian Renaissance and Moorish architecture. See the impressive Torre del Bujaco tower, one of 30 towers still standing from the Islamic period.

The Royal Monastery of San Jeronimo of Yuste is known as the last home of Emperor Charles V. This stunning place is used for important royal ceremonies.

One of the best things to do in Extremadura Spain is to see the Royal Monastery of San Jeronimo of Yuste in the small village now called Cuacos de Yuste in the province of Cáceres. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Map of Old Town Caceres.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Guadalupe’s Royal Monastery

The 14th century Royal Monastery of Saint Mary of Guadalupe is a Roman Catholic monastic establishment. It is located in Guadalupe, Extremadura, Spain.

Biosphere Reserves

There are also two Biosphere Reserves: Monfragüe and Tajo International Nature Parks. It is no coincidence that Extremadura has exceptional spots where you can enjoy breathtaking starry skies.

Gaze at Dark Skies

The Extremadura region is an excellent astrotourism destination for stargazing and is a Starlight tourist destinations.

Impressive Castles

There are 27 castles in Extremadura. With so many castles in this region, you are sure to see several when you travel there. You will spot them on hilltops and in the center of town. Some still have imposing outer walls, some have impressive towers, and others have fairy-tale turrets.

15th century Castle de Trevejo at sunset in the Extremadura region of Spain. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Explore gastronomic delights of Extremadura

This entire region is heaven for the foodie in search of fabulous farm-to-table gastronomic delights. Wine lovers can explore the burgeoning wine scene, Extremadura produces excellent wines that pair perfectly with local dishes. I was amazed that there are 21 Michelin-starred restaurants in Extremadura. We dined at many and I will never forget this fantastic culinary experience.

Olive Oil

Did you know that Spain is the world’s largest producer of olive oil? Surprisingly, Italy sells more Spanish olive oil than Spain. The olive oil in Extremadura is highly valued for its richness and quality.

Jamon Iberico

Across the Extremadura countryside, you can see wild Iberian pigs roaming and eating acorns from oak groves. These pigs are caught and used for the beloved cured Iberian Ham called ‘Jamon Iberico.’ This comes from fine Spanish Iberian pigs, and the very best of this delectable meat is found in Extremadura.

Jamon, a favorite of locals, comes from Spanish Iberian pigs. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Locals shop for cured Iberian Ham called Jamon Iberico. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Slicing cured Iberian Ham called Jamon Iberico in a local butcher shop. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Best places to stay in Extremadura

Aqua et Oleum historic boutique Hotel

If you are looking for a charming small hotel surrounded by natural beauty, look no further, the place to go is Aqua et Oleum (Latin for “water and oil”). My first stop in Extremadura was this beautiful historic boutique hotel, surrounded by an olive tree grove, in the inviting Spanish country side. I was fascinated to learn that Dallas businessman Joseph Shortell was the owner and visionary who created and designed this four-star boutique hotel cleverly housed in an old olive mill full of character and history. What an extraordinary vision. The unique atmosphere of Aqua et Oleum makes it an excellent choice for anyone interested in an upscale getaway in a relatively untouristed region of Spain, especially if you like olives and olive oil. It’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever stayed.

Terri Guthrie in the Olive Grove at Aqua et Oleum. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

Fresh picked olives at Olive Oil processing plant near Aqua et Oleum. Photo: Terri Guthrie©

View of the Aqua et Oleum Hotel. Courtesy photo.

Spanish Paradores luxury historic monument hotels

This was another fun discovery – “Paradores!” They are among some of the finest hotels in Spain. It was Franco who had the idea of transforming some of Spain’s many historic monuments into luxury hotels, and it is perhaps the single achievement of this era that even his bitter enemies will happily give him credit for. These Spanish Paradores are hotels in ancient castles, palaces, fortresses, convents, monasteries and old rural retreats. Though they are classed from three to five stars, these state-run hotels all offer a fabulous and unique environment, with all the luxury of a modern hotel. These walls have stood for centuries and are very much woven into Spanish history. There are currently seven Paradores in Extremadura.

This region of Spain has everything I look for in a destination: amazing architecture, fascinating historic sites, rugged natural beauty, authentic cultural experiences, outstanding accommodations, delicious food, and great, welcoming people!

Extremadura truly offers a glimpse into the past and is overflowing with treasures and secrets to be discovered.

Look for more stories on travel in Spain coming soon.

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