Tucked between Madrid and the Portuguese border, Extremadura is one of Spain’s hidden gems - an enchanting region steeped in history, brimming with natural beauty and bursting with authentic Spanish culture. This Spanish road trip invites you to slow down, explore, and experience a different side of the country. A land where ancient Roman cities, medieval castles, and charming towns bring the past to life with their well-preserved architecture and timeless atmosphere.
Get a car and embrace the freedom of the open road! Discover top stops on an Extremadura road trip at your own pace. Weave through quaint villages, stop at family-owned taverns for local dishes, and take in spectacular views of mountains and plains alike. This off-the-beaten-path Spanish destination promises a journey of discovery - savouring each moment along the way. Let’s go on an Extremadura road trip!
Mérida, the capital of Extremadura, is a great starting point for your adventure! Celebrated for its extraordinary Roman heritage, Mérida will make you step back in time as you marvel at the Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, with the same impressive architecture that entertained crowds centuries ago. Walk across the Roman Bridge, one of the longest surviving structures from this era. Together, these ruins earned Mérida a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, offering a unique glimpse into Roman Spain.
To dive deeper into these Spanish Roman Ruins, visit the National Museum of Roman Art, where you will find fascinating artifacts and exhibits revealing the Roman Empire’s profound influence on the Iberian Peninsula.
But a visit to Mérida is just complete when indulging in the flavours of the region, of course! Head to a traditional tavern to try the caldereta de cordero (a hearty lamb stew), paired with local Extremaduran wines for an authentic taste of the area.
Next, make your way to Cáceres, a stunningly preserved medieval town that showcases a remarkable blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. As you wander through Cáceres old town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be enchanted by its charming palaces, winding cobbled streets and the lively Plaza Mayor. Key highlights include the majestic Santa María Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the impressive Tower of Bujaco, which offers a glimpse into the town’s storied past.
To truly capture the essence of Cáceres, consider climbing the ancient towers for breath-taking panoramic views of Cáceres, explore artisan shops brimming with local crafts and join a delightful tapas tour, sampling a variety of regional flavours. Try migas extremeñas, a traditional bread dish that perfectly captures the essence of Extremaduran cooking.
Continue your journey to Trujillo, a historic town celebrated for its rich connection to Spanish explorers and its Plaza Mayor, a lively square flanked by magnificent buildings that reflect the town’s heritage. Your first challenge should be ascending to the 10th-century Trujillo Castle, perched atop a hill, where you will be rewarded with wondrous panoramic views of the surrounding plains and countryside.
Strolling along Trujillo medieval town lined with historic mansions is another way to reveal secrets of the past and its prominent figures, like the Pizarro House Museum, the former home of the famous explorer Francisco Pizarro.
Our Trujillo food recommendation is the region’s renowned cheeses, such as Torta del Casar, a creamy, decadent cheese that is very popular among locals. The exquisite local olive oils also elevate every dish on the menu!
Welcome to Guadalupe, an alluring small town that is an off-the-beaten-path Spanish destinations for its profound religious and architectural significance. At the heart of Guadalupe lies the Royal Monastery of Santa María, a UNESCO World Heritage Site acclaimed for its stunning Mudejar-style cloisters and impressive collections of sacred art. We recommend you partake in a guided tour of the monastery to fully appreciate its intricate Gothic and Mudejar architecture while learning about the town’s important role as a pilgrimage destination for centuries.
When it comes to gastronomy, Guadalupe offers a true taste of regional cuisine. Here, you have the opportunity to savour dishes, such as gazpacho extremeño, a refreshing cold soup original from Extremadura. For dessert you can enjoy sweet treats like perrunillas, crumbly cookies flavored with cinnamon and anise, or roscas de muédago, honey-drenched rings. Guadalupe’s fusion of legacy and gastronomic treasures is what makes it an essential stop on your custom road trip itinerary in Extremadura!
Conclude your journey in Plasencia, a charming historic town where centuries-old heritage meets the serenity of nature. Begin exploring the Plaza Mayor, the lively centre of local life, before visiting the majestic New Cathedral, a 15th-century masterpiece where Gothic grandeur merges with Renaissance elegance.
After these Spanish architectural marvels, head your Extremadura road trip to Monfragüe National Park, and witness its dramatic cliffs, sweeping hills, and abundant wildlife. This park is a true sanctuary for nature lovers and offers unrivalled views along its scenic hiking trails. Look up to spot majestic vultures and eagles soaring overhead and take in the peaceful beauty of riverside walks back in Plasencia as the day draws to a close.
To finish your Extremadura road trip in the best way possible, treat yourself to cachuela, a richly spiced pork dish unique to the area, and pair it with a glass of Ribera del Guadiana wine, famed for its distinctive local character.
As you conclude your road trip through Extremadura, take a moment to appreciate the enchanting allure of Spain's hidden gems. Extremadura grants you an authentic experience that transcends the typical tourist trail. This Spanish road trip idea invites you to wander through delightful towns, indulge in local gastronomy, and fully immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. Book your trip with us and let us turn your dream of exploring off-the-beaten-path Spain into a reality!