Hotels in Ávila

In total, 2.5 kilometres: no more, no less. This is the length of the monument that has been Avila's most famous landmark since the 12th century. We are referring to its medieval wall, which surrounds the city and is considered one of the best preserved in the world. It is obvious: it is the only one that has survived in its entirety to the present day. As soon as it appears before you for the first time, imposing, impenetrable, you will be aware of its grandeur.  

But when you pass through any of its gates, the magic of Ávila will unfold before you. We suggest you enter the city via the gate next to the cathedral, which is, by the way, adjacent to the wall. So much so that its dome protrudes outwards.  

Before you forget about the wall - spoiler: you never will - climb up to the ramparts and walk along the almost 2 kilometres of treadable wall, observing its 87 towers and 2,500 battlements. The city looks very different from up there. 

Back in the heart of Avila, lose yourself in its streets while you let yourself be seduced by its medieval palaces, once inhabited by the most distinguished nobility. Some are used today as the site of public buildings, museums or restaurants. Top tip: Visit the Superunda Palace, where you can delve into the life of the artist Guido Caprotti: a little-known must-see.  

Continue walking and you will reach the imposing cathedral, this time to visit it from the inside. This sacred building, which is an ode to Gothic style, will impress you with its imposing interior, but also with its defensive aspect. Let yourself be embraced by its cloister and 15th century stained glass windows, by the altarpiece begun by Berruguete and by its Plateresque choir. 

To round off the religious experience, visit the Basilica of San Vicente, an example of Romanesque architecture, or go outside the walls again to the Monastery of Saint Thomas: we assure you that the sally outside the walls will be well worth it. There is the tomb of Don Juan, son of the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, although it is said that the body never actually rested there.  

Exactly: because the fiesta continues in a thousand different ways in Ávila. And we suggest you join it in another of its facets: its gastronomy. Delight yourself with their patatas revolconas, their renowned chuletón (steak) and their beans from El Barco. For a sweet treat, don't be afraid to take part in a workshop to make the legendary Yemas de Santa Teresa yolks in their most authentic kitchen. And walk: walk a lot.  

Lose yourself in the local shops, get out of the walled enclosure and discover the state-of-the-art Lienzo Norte conference centre, designed by Francisco Mangado. Have a refreshment, get your strength back and continue on to Los Cuatro Postes, where you will get what is probably the best known - and most beautiful - scene of Ávila: take photos until your camera smokes.  

However, if you are not much of a walker, we also offer you an alternative: Would you like to travel around Avila in a modern and unique tuk-tuk? No sooner said than done. Let it not be said that this Castilian city does not also have its cheeky side: let yourself be surprised by it. 

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