What to see in Cáceres in three days
The historic old quarter of Cáceres is one of the many attractions you will discover on your visit to this city and surrounding area. Its unique architecture and delicious culinary delicacies will enhchant you as you lose yourself in its labyrinthine streets. And with three days available, you can even squeeze in a trip to a nearby village. Read on to find out how to organise your days so you don’t miss out on anything.
Itinerary day 1
10.00-11.00
Plaza Mayor
Start your day in the city’s hub – the main square. If you haven’t had breakfast yet, you will find plenty of establishments offering a typical breakfast of ham on toast with coffee. From here you will catch your first glimpse of the city’s impressive medieval towers. Stop for a moment to take in the Town Hall building, or pop to Calle Pintores for a bit of shopping, before plunging into the history of the place.
11.00-12.30
Arco de la Estrella and torre de Bujaco
Next to the Plaza Mayor, you will find the most famous gate to Cáceres old quarter – Arco de la Estrella, or the Star Gate. This entrance dates back to the 15th century, and the carriages of local nobles would swing through it back in the Middle Ages. Standing tall next to the gate is the Torre de Bujaco. This tower is an excellent example of Moorish architecture and, at 25 metres high, it affords incredible views of the city. You can also walk along a section of the city wall from here.
13.00-14.30
Cáceres Cathedral
Cáceres Cathedral is one of the oldest monuments in the old town. It was built in the 15th century and is a clear example of gothic architecture. One of the most striking elements, however, is its single tower, which was built in the Renaissance style. Take some time to go up and contemplate the city from a height.
14.30-16.30
Madruelo
There is no better way to get your first taste of the cuisine of Extremadura than with dinner at this establishment. Madruelo is one of the best restaurants in this historic part of the city of Cáceres, and is located in an attractive 18th century house. The classic dishes on its menu include paella-style rice dishes and bean stew.
17.00-19.00
Museo de Cáceres
Cáceres Museum is the best way to get an in-depth understanding of the fascinating cultural heritage of Extremadura. You will find it in Plaza de las Veletas and it comprises linked two historic buildings, Palacio de las Veletas and Casa de los Caballos. As well as the many exhibition rooms with displays ranging from the Palaeolithic to the contemporary era, the museum houses an impressive Moorish cistern.
19.15-21.00
The palaces of the old quarter
One thing you can’t miss is all the fabulous architecture of the historic old quarter of the city. Discover the hidden garden of Palacio de Carvajal, and its curious round tower. Admire the splendour of the Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo, where the Catholic Monarchs lodged when they visited Cáceres. Contemplate the Renaissance entrance to the Palacio de Godoy, and imagine how the nobles lived in Palacio de Moctezuma.
21.30-23.30
Mastropiero Gastrobar
Make your way back to the old town for a spot of lunch. No visit to Cáceres is complete without some tapas. Mastropiero is a modern and eclectic bar-restaurant that offers great tapas and main meals. It also boasts a garden and chill-out area for a relaxing drink.
Itinerary day 2
10.00-12.00
Cueva de Maltravieso
Use the morning of your last day to delve into the origins of Cáceres. The Cave of Maltravieso contains fascinating cave paintings and is one of the most impressive examples of Palaeolithic art in the province. It requires prior booking, so if you haven’t had time to call, pop into the interpretation centre that will tell you everything you need to know about the cave.
12.30-14.00
Helga de Alvear Foundation
If you like contemporary art, you can’t miss the Centro de Artes Visuales Fundación Helga de Alvear, which has one of the most impressive 20th-century art collections in the world. This non-profit organisation always has interesting temporary exhibitions running too.
14.30-16.30
Restaurante El Figón de Eustaquio
Make your way to Plaza San Juan and sit down at this classic restaurant to try some fabulous traditional dishes. Wash down the speciality game dishes with one of the superb regional wines. El Figón de Eustaquio is a true culinary stalwart in the province.
17.00-18.30
Yusuf Al Burch Museum
You will see traces of the Moorish occupation of Cáceres in many of its hidden corners. But if you would like a real journey into the past, visit this historic house museum on Cuesta del Marqués. It is an authentic Moorish dwelling with a fully restored hallway, harem, patio and hammam.
19.00-20.30
El Parque del Príncipe
It’s time for a little fresh air after the museum. Parque del Principe is a refreshing green space at the heart of Cáceres. It has a pleasant pond and an open-air sculpture museum, among other attractions. A stroll through the park provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle.
21.00-23.00
Terraza Colón
This charming terrace restaurant at Hotel Barceló Cáceres V Centenario specialises in chargrilled meat and is perfect for dinner. The indoor restaurant also offers excellent regional dishes. Don’t leave without trying the exquisite dehesa ham.
Itinerary day 3
10.00-18.00
A trip out of town
On the third day, why not take a trip out of town to visit somewhere close by. Our first choice is always the Guadalupe Monastery, one of the main attractions in the province, both for its spectacular architecture and the pretty village where it is located. However, you can also consider other options, such as the Vostell Museum (in Los Barruecos), Granadilla, Las Hurdes, Trujillo or Zafra.
21.00-23.00
Atrio restaurant
Back in the city, try this sublime restaurant for the perfect end to your visit. Atrio is the only restaurant in Cáceres with two Michelin stars. It is a point of reference for both regional and national cuisine, and is run by chefs Toño Pérez and José Polo. The highest quality ingredients, coupled with the originality and talent of the chefs, results in a marvellous taster menu.