Ciudad Rodrigo is an ancient cathedral city set on the banks of the River Agueda. Centuries-old defensive walls encircle the Old Town and protect beautiful buildings constructed from honey-coloured sandstone.
Things to do in Ciudad Rodrigo
Cathedral de Santa Maria soars over the city and is a treasured National Monument. Gothic and Romanesque doorways invite you to enter the ornate interior. Construction started in the 12th century and continued for several centuries. The entire cathedral, including the original ribbed vault ceiling and ornamental cloister, is beautifully preserved.
Learn more about the city’s unique narrative at Palacio de los Aguila. The former mansion is reimagined as a heritage centre with exhibits on Salamanca history and culture, as well as the city’s Portuguese influences. Walk around the courtyard framed by arcaded galleries and admire the intricate coats of arms that decorate the palace façade.
Cafes and tapas bars spill onto Plaza Mayor, the city’s bustling main square. Dine on a sunny terrace or seek shade on an upper floor balcony. Order local Salamanca specialties like “farinato” sausages seasoned with paprika, “chanfaina” rice and pork and “hornazo” pie. Bakeries will tempt you with treats like “bollo maimon” cake and “repelao” marzipan. Sunsets in the plaza are beautiful and cast a golden glow on the stately sandstone buildings.
Follow the River Agueda to charming villages like El Bodón and Fuenteguinaldo. Both make great day trips and offer a glimpse of life in the Sierra de Gata mountains. Pre-Roman settlements like Lerilla and Irueña dot the countryside and showcase the region’s ancient past.
Getting around Ciudad Rodrigo
Ciudad Rodrigo is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in the province of Salamanca, a one-hour drive from the city of Salamanca and three hours from Madrid. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Ciudad Rodrigo and explore Salamanca at your own pace. Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is a three-hour drive away.