Avila Spain - What To See & Do

Avila Spain is a beautiful historic city with perfectly preserved medieval city walls, which are typical of the city’s predominant Romanesque architecture.

Your first view of the city is, of course, of its majestic walls, started in 1100 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it is one of the few cities in the world whose walls fully enclose the city within them; perfect for that panoramic holiday snap.

At night, the Walls of Avila Spain are the largest fully illuminated monument in the world – now there’s a treat.  It is undoubtedly a stunning city and its history which makes visiting Avila something very special.

Avila’s proximity to Spain's capital city of Madrid (about an hour’s drive away) makes it an ideal destination for those who yearn to taste the traditional, unchanged Spain while avoiding the bustle of the big city.

Avila Spain Castle Walls

Indeed, Avila Spain within the walls has remained mostly unchanged since centuries ago; the atmosphere is solemn and tranquil, just as if you had gone back in time to Medieval Spain.

One of the famous monuments of Avila is the “Puerta de Los Leales’, which is part of the contemporary monuments, from the 16th century.  It has been rebuilt over time and is now a cultural centre with frequent exhibitions and educational activities.

Avila Cathedral attracts visitors from all over the world, with its particular architectural style, this was home to the ‘first Gothic Cathedral of Spain’.

Besides the cathedral there are a number of churches well worth visiting, the most beautiful is the Church of St. Peter of Avila. Inside, the Renaissance elements and the Baroque altar stand out and grab your attention. Nevertheless, what makes this church very special are the old well-preserved paintings, dating from the 1100s.

The city has a wealth of monuments and other architectural sites of excellence, such as the cathedral, the mother of all of them, and several smaller churches and basilicas.

The city holds a number of festivities, the most important of which is the Fiestas de Santa Teresa; this event takes place every October and lasts the entire month.

Pro-Tip


Avila’s Medieval City Walls are open every day for visitors except Mondays and costs just €5 per person. Free for children under the age of 8.

Avila Spain

Avila is the highest provincial capital in Spain, a characteristic that takes a toll on its climate.

Winters can be long by Spanish standards and even snowy on occasions, the summers though can still be fiercely hot, fanned by Terral winds.  So don’t forget to pack some of those scarves, and jumpers if you plan to visit during the winter months.

5 Interesting Facts about Avila Spain

Avila Spain Castle Walls

  1. Avila is the capital of Castile – Leon and is 1120 meters above sea level.
  2. The city was attacked and captured by the Moors in 1714 then recaptured by the Christians in 1088, the famous protective walls were built to protect the city during the 12th century.
  3. The famous walls of the city are around 2.200 metres in length and include ninety heavily fortified granite stone towers.
  4.  Now a tourist haven, the visitors during medieval times were religious pilgrims visiting the church which was located in the center of the city.
  5.  Avila was a sacred place to an ancient Celt Iberian culture long before the arrival of the Romans or Christians.

Best 15 Things to Do In Avila

Avila Castle Walls
Avila Castle Walls
  1. Explore the Walls of Avila: Marvel at the impressive medieval walls that surround the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved fortified complexes in Europe.
  2. Visit the Avila Cathedral: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of this grand cathedral, dedicated to San Salvador, and explore its ornate interior.
  3. Walk through the Old Town: Take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, lined with medieval buildings, picturesque squares, and quaint shops.
  4. Discover the Basilica of San Vicente: Visit this Romanesque-style basilica of San Vicente, known for its intricate sculptures and beautiful stained glass windows.
  5. Explore the Royal Monastery of Saint Thomas: Discover the grandeur of this monastery, where Saint Thomas Aquinas once resided. Admire the impressive architecture and the exquisite art collection inside.
  6. Visit the Convent of Santa Teresa: Learn about the life and works of Saint Teresa of Avila at this convent, dedicated to the renowned mystic and writer.
  7. Admire the Church of San Pedro: Explore the Church of San Pedro, an architectural gem that combines Romanesque and Gothic styles.
  8. Take a Walk on the Four Posts: Enjoy panoramic views of Avila and its surrounding landscapes from this viewpoint located outside the city walls.
  9. Visit the Caprotti Chocolate Factory: Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the art of chocolate-making at this traditional chocolate factory.
  10. Explore the Museum of Avila: Discover the rich history and art of Avila at this museum, which houses a diverse collection of artefacts and works.
  11. Enjoy the Avila Gastronomy: Taste the local cuisine of Avila, including its famous T-bone steak, Judias del Barco (local beans), and Yemas de Santa Teresa (sweet egg yolk pastries).
  12. Attend the Medieval Market: If you're visiting during the medieval market held in September, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and enjoy the live entertainment and artisan stalls.
  13. Take a Segovia Day Trip: Explore the nearby city of Segovia, known for its stunning aqueduct, Alcazar, and charming old town.
  14. Relax in the Natural Parks: Enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding Sierra de Gredos and Sierra de Avila natural parks, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities.
  15. Attend the Procession of the Holy Encuentro: If visiting during Easter, witness the solemn procession of the Holy Encuentro, a significant religious event in Avila.

Top Cultural Sites To Visit In Avila

Plaza Santa Teresa
Plaza Santa Teresa

Pro-Tip


Take part in the most important festival in Avila which is dedicated to Saint Teresa the Patron Saint of Avila. It takes place during the second week of October.

Avila´s city walls

Avila Castle Walls
Avila Castle Walls

The most recognisable and iconic view of the city of Avila is the impressive walls. They are one of the most well-preserved medieval structures in Europe and they were recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

The walls were built between the 11th and 14th centuries, during the rule of King Alfonso VI, to protect the city from any other threats at that time.

The wall's dimensions are quite staggering at 2.5 kilometers in length, a  height of over 14 meters with a thickness of 3 meters. The whole structure was reinforced by 88 towers, 9 gates and 3 large openings.

The walls offer a stunning view of the city and its surroundings, as well as a glimpse into its history and culture. Visitors can walk along some sections of the walls, accessing them from four different points: La Puerta de la Catedral (the Cathedral Gate), Puerta del Alcázar (the Fortress Gate), Puerta del Carmen (the Carmen Gate) and Puerta del Puente (the Bridge Gate).

The walls are open to the public from 10:00 to 18:00 Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Monday). The entrance fee is just 4 euros for general admission and 2.5 euros for reduced admission (groups, retired persons, students and over 8's).

The walls also host various events and activities throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, guided tours and dramatized visits. Some of the highlights are the Medieval Market in September, the Night of Legends in October and the Christmas Market in December.

Basilica de San Vicente

Basilica de San Vicente
Basilica de San Vicente

The magnificent Romanesque church known as the Basilica of San Vicente is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

The basilica is one of Spain's finest examples of Romanesque sculpture and is well worth visiting even if you're not a history buff.

There are a number of ornate chapels that house priceless items of art including paintings, and statues.

The Basilica of San Vicente is open to the public every day between the hours of 10:00 and 13:30 and 16:00 and 18:30. The admission price is just 1.40 euros so its well worth paying a visit plus they offer group discounts.  On Sundays, the entrance is free.

The Convent of Santa Teresa ( Convento de Santa Teresa )

Convento de Santa Teresa
Convento de Santa Teresa

The Convento de Santa Teresa is a church and convent in Avila, dedicated to the city's most famous daughter, Saint Teresa of Avila. The convent was built in the 17th century on the site of the house where Teresa was born in 1515.

The convent consists of three parts: the church, the relics room and the museum. The church has a Baroque facade and a Latin cross plan. The main altar is located over the room where Teresa was born, and it features a statue of the saint by Gregorio Fernández.

The chapel of Saint Teresa contains a marble statue of her and the coats of arms of her family and patrons. The church also has several chapels with paintings and a relics room that displays various objects related to Teresa's life and work, such as her ring, her rosary, her sandals, her writings and even her finger.

There is also a museum located in the crypt below the church, and it exhibits items that illustrate the history and spirituality of the Carmelite order. There is also a small shop where you can buy souvenirs and books.

The convent is open to visitors every day from 10:00 to 13:30 and from 16:00 to 18:30. The entrance fee for the church and relics room is free, while the museum costs just 2 euros. There are also guided tours and audio guides available for an extra charge.

The Gastronomy of Avila Spain

Suckling Pig - Restaurant Maribel
Suckling Pig - Restaurant Maribel

The gastronomy of Avila in Spain is rich, varied and delicious, with strong influences from Muslim, Hebrew and Christian cultures. The cuisine is based on local products, especially meats, pulses and pastries.

Some of the most popular dishes and foods in Avila are:

-  El Barco Beans: large white beans that are cooked with pork, chorizo, black pudding and vegetables. They are also known as "pipos" locally.

-  Entrecote - T-bone steak:  a thick veal chop that is grilled over charcoal and seasoned with salt and garlic. It is one of the most emblematic dishes of Avila and has a designation of origin.

- Yemas de Santa Teresa: sweet cakes made with egg yolks ( Yemas ),  and sugar that are named after the famous saint and writer who was born in Avila. They are soft, moist and melt in your mouth.

- Patatas Revolconas: mashed potatoes with paprika and bacon bits that are served as a tapa or a side dish. They are also called "remojón" or "revoltillo" in some places.

- Roast Suckling Pig: a tender and juicy dish that is typical of the north of the province. The piglet is roasted whole in a wood-fired oven and served with salad or roasted potatoes.

- Hornazos: savoury pies filled with sausage and egg that are popular across Castile, but especially in Avila. They are usually eaten during Easter or as a snack.

- Torrijas: slices of bread soaked in milk, egg and sugar, then fried and sprinkled with cinnamon. They are similar to French toast and are eaten as a dessert or a breakfast treat.

Pro-Tip


Enjoy a fun Tuk Tuk ride around Avila.Pass through the most emblematic places of the city with a knowledgable driver & audioguide stopping off at the renowned Mirador Cuatro Postes, the four-posts viewing platform.

Avila Festivals

Festivals Holy Week
Holy Week Festivals

March: The Holy Week ( Semana Santa ) is one of the main festivals of the year. With religious ceremonies, colour parades and lots of outdoor activities held throughout a week of festivities.

July: Large outdoor festival held all around the city that includes sporting events, exhibitions and other cultural activities.

October: Held on the 15th of October each year this festival is held in honour of Santa Teresa the Patron Saint of Avila. Although this is a religious event there are many activities for all the family such as processions, folk events, gastronomy events, kid's parties, theatre shows, poetry readings, parades and musical concerts.

Getting to Avila and Transport Options

Avila has good transport links to the rest of Spain, you have several public transport options to and from the city, these include:

- Flights:  The nearest airport to Avila is Salamanca, around 75 kilometres away. Valladolid is around 114 km away but the main international airport is Madrid Adolfo Suarez which is some 96 km away. From Madrid airport, you can travel to the city centre by metro, taxi, or bus, then continue to Avila. Check the Renfe website for times and tickets.

- By Bus: Jimenez Dorado operates regular buses from Madrid-Estación Sur to Avila, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The tickets cost 9 € and the buses run every 4 hours. You can also take buses from other cities such as Salamanca, Segovia or Valladolid to Avila.

- By Train: Renfe Viajeros operates hourly trains from Madrid-Príncipe Pio station to Avila, taking about 1 hour and 28 minutes. The tickets cost between 11 and 15 € and the trains are comfortable and fast. You can also take trains from other cities such as Salamanca, Segovia or Valladolid to Avila.

- By Car: Avila is well connected by motorways with Madrid and other cities in Castile and Leon. You can take the A-6 motorway from Madrid to Villacastín, and then take the AP-51 motorway to Avila. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and the tolls cost about 8 €. You can also take the N-110 road from Segovia or Salamanca to Avila.

Avila Hotels and Places To Stay

Parador de Avila
Parador de Avila

Ávila offers a range of accommodation options to fit different budgets and styles.

For luxury, the 5-star Hotel Palacio Valderrabanos is located in a renovated 15th-century palace in the heart of the city. It features a spa, indoor pool and elegant rooms with four poster beds. Also centrally located is the 4-star Hotel Palacio de los Velada with a rooftop terrace and upscale rooms.

On the outskirts, the Parador de Avila is a luxury hotel actually set into the medieval walls. The Parador de Avila also has a pilgrim's dormitory for budget travellers.

Mid-range options include the Hotel El Rastro, with simple but modern rooms and a great central location. The 3-star Hotel Las Cancelas is comfortable and affordable with a seasonal rooftop pool. The Hotel Arco San Vicente occupies a restored 14th-century palace with historic charm.

Good budget picks are Hostal Portal del Alma near the cathedral and Hostal el Rastro with basic rooms starting around €50 a night.

The Pension Pechas and Pension La Sinagoga are no-frills guesthouses popular with pilgrims. Near the train station, the Pension Regia and Hotel Corona Real offer affordable lodging.

For a unique experience, travellers can stay in a converted 12th-century convent at the Hospederia de Santo Tomas.

Campgrounds like Camping Avila and rural homestays outside town provide scenic, low-cost options in the area surrounding Avila.

 

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Yes, Avila is absolutely worth visiting in Spain for its remarkably well-preserved medieval walls and historic architecture. Walking the walls offers scenic views of this UNESCO World Heritage city with important Catholic sites like the 12th century cathedral and 16th century churches that give Ávila its nickname "The Town of Stones and Saints".

Ávila is best known for its medieval walls built in the 11th century to protect the city, which are some of the most complete in Europe. avila is also famous as the birthplace of Saint Teresa and for its stunning architecture including many churches, convents and stone buildings that give it the nickname "The Town of Stones and Saints".

The incredibly well-preserved 11th-century medieval walls surrounding Avila are its most famous feature.

One full day is sufficient to walk the walls, explore the old town, and see the highlights of Avila.

Yes, the walled old town of Avila is very compact and walkable, ideal for exploring on foot.

To admire the medieval walls and architecture, in particular, the cathedral and churches that give it the nickname "The Town of Stones and Saints".

Saint Teresa, an important Catholic saint known for her visions and writings, was born in Ávila in 1515.

Castillian Spanish is the main language spoken in Avila today.

No, Avila does not have a major castle, just sections of the original wall towers.

Avila is approximately 250 km or a 3-hour drive from Santander.

Yes, the Camino de Madrid route of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage goes through Avila.

Avila has a long history dating back to Roman times and was an important medieval walled city along the pilgrimage route to Santiago.

The walls of Avila were constructed in the 11th century AD making them around 1,000 years old.

 

 

 

Avila Weather

Avila experiences a continental climate with cold winters, warm summers, and drastic temperature variations between seasons.

Winters are cold and snowy in Avila, with temperatures from November to March averaging just above freezing during the day but often dipping below freezing at night. Lows of -10C/14F are not uncommon. Snowfall occurs regularly and can be heavy at times, requiring cleared roads and sidewalks. It's the ideal time to visit if you enjoy snowy landscapes.

Spring (April-May) sees a rapid rise in temperatures, reaching highs around 15-20C/60-70F by May. Frosts still occur at night but snowfall tapers off. Sunny, mild days prevail with a mix of rain showers.

Summers in Ávila are hot and dry, with July and August bringing high temperatures around 30C/86F on average. However, the high altitude keeps summers from becoming too oppressive. Nights remain cool. Thunderstorms provide occasional cooling relief.

Autumn (October-November) offers moderate temperatures and a mix of sunny days, rain showers and frost. Temperatures gradually descend to winter chill again by late November.

The seasonal variations are extreme, but Avila's high altitude creates comfortable summers compared to other areas of Spain. The cool summer nights enable restful sleep.

ÁVILA‎ WEATHER