5 (more practical) Tips for Travel Through Spain

I love everything about living and traveling around Spain!  It's an amazingly beautiful country filled with history, yummy food, different languages, and overwhelmingly gorgeous landscape!  But I didn't just land here and automatically know how to get around, where to go, and what to expect when I got there.  I had to make a few mistakes, learn a lot of lessons, and keep an open mind.  The point of this blog post is to help you avoid some of the mistakes, prepare you for the lessons, and give you a sneak peak at what to expect when traveling through Spain.  (If you're interested in more of my personal advice about what to do/ expect check out my other blog post HERE).

If you're planning a trip to Spain you may find yourself a little overwhelmed when trying to plan out the technicalities.  So you've made it to Madrid, that part is easy.  Most international flights will go through Barajas International Airport in the Capital and heart of the country.  But now what?  Even if you're going to spend a few days in Madrid before moving on, is there something you should expect or be on the lookout for?  And what about when you want to go somewhere else?  How do you get there?


1.  Getting around

Getting around Spain is really very simple.  The entire country seems to run on public transportation! The problem is, still, how do you know where to look to find the option that's best for you?

Well, let's start with the option of going in train!  Everyone loves a relaxing train ride!  The trains in Spain are spacious and comfortable, and a great way to get some amazing views of the country-side as your travel from one place to another!
The website for the train company here is: renfe.com.
The site tends to have a few glitches from time to time, so be patient with it.  If you find that you can't purchase your ticked on the webpage (which is a common problem, for me at least) you can get your tickets easily at the train station!
Here's an example of what the website looks like when I searched for a ticket from Madrid to Barcelona.  (Be warned!  The website won't show options for trains too far in advance, so if you're planning your trip WAY ahead of time, don't panic if you don't find an option for travel.  Check to see if they have trains that run the route you're looking for by pushing up the date.  You can go back and buy them later if you find something you like)

You'll probably notice the difference in prices.  This is something that's somewhat common, so if you're looking for a bargain, check the site a few times, and see if you can get a really cheap Promo! 

What about going by bus?  This is another great option, as it's much cheaper than going by train.  The buses aren't always very comfortable, but every once in awhile you'll be pleasantly surprised.  The bus company you'll take depends on where you want to go.
The easiest way to check your options for bus travel is simply with a google search.  Just type in "Bus Madrid Barcelona" (or whatever origin/destination you need) and see what pops up!

Skip over all the ads..

And there you have it!  The first link (NOT an ad) is what you're looking for!

In case you want to verify that you have the right site, some of the most popular bus companies in Spain are: Alsa, Avanzabus, Monbus, Auto-Res.
Just so we can see a comparison in price ranges between bus and train, here's the same trip (Madrid-Barcelona) on the same day:

If you're still not sure what company, line, or option would be best for you, simply visit the train and/or bus station in the city you're visiting!  You'll be able to get all the information you need there.  (In larger cities -Madrid and Barcelona- there may be more than one bus/train station, so be sure to check that you're going to the right one!)  

2.  When, where, and why?

As I mentioned in a previous blog, I truly believe that if you want to get to see Spain up close and personal, you need to move around!  You can't just stay in one place!! (For a link to that blog, click HERE)  But where you should go depends on a couple different factors: what time of year you're traveling and what type of experience you're looking for.

Spain is, in reality, a country made up of a lot of different little countries.  There's no end to the variety and diversity when traveling from one side of the peninsula to the next!  Below I'm going to give just a few scenarios for possible destinations, with some information as to why I've recommended them.

I want sun, fun, beaches, and more sun!! 
If you want to travel to Spain to experience part of what has given it it's fame then the South is probably what you're looking for.  Also, the Spanish islands have some amazing beach and resort destinations!  Places such as Ibiza are famed for their tourist allure!
Try cities such as: Málaga, Cádiz, or Valencia
Time of the year to travel:  Being that Málaga and Cádiz are in the South, and Valencia is in the Southeast, the weather is good pretty much all year round!  But if you're looking for some real cultural experience along with your sun and beach time, Semana Santa (Holy Week- leading up to Easter) in Andalusia is famed for it's celebrations and processions.  Also, during Carnival the South of Spain comes to life with festivals and parades!  In Valencia, the most famous time of the year is during Las Fallas in mid-March.

Other cities such as Barcelona and San Sebastian also have great beaches, but being that their in the north, you won't find the year-long warm weather that's present in the south and islands.

Playa de la Concha- San Sebastian 

I want art and culture!
Spain has some wonderful artistic history!  With people such as Picasso, Dalí, Goya, and Velazquez there's no shortage of amazing works to see!
Try cities such as: Málaga, Madrid, and Barcelona
Why?  Málaga is the hometown of Picasso, and his works and life are celebrated there.  Madrid houses some of the best and most renowned museums in the country (El Prado, Reina Sofia, Tyssen).  Barcelona is home to Gaudí, a famous abstract architect from the early 20th Century.  His contributions have turned the city into a work of art in and of itself.  Places such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlo, Casa Vicens, and Parc Güell seem to be taken straight from a Dr. Suess book!
Time of the year to travel: The weather in Málaga will be beautiful almost year-round.  Barcelona also has a moderately mild climate.  Madrid, however, gets very cold in the winter.

Casa Vicens in Barcelona

I want history! Roman ruins and Medieval cities please! 
Spain's history is rich and complex.  The peninsula changed hand many times before it became what we know it to be today.  Forming part of the Roman Empire, the country is still sprinkled with ancient artifacts and monuments.  Having a strong Arabic influence, and forming part of the Moorish Rule for over 700 years has left a colorful and unique mark, especially in the south of Spain.  With large Cathedrals dating back even to the 12th Century, the Spanish architecture mirrors its long and historic past.
Try cities such as: Segovia, Cáceres, Córdoba, and Santiago de Compostela
Why?  It's true that no matter where you go in Spain, you'll find history and awe-inspiring tales of days gone by.  But, the cities I've listed above seem to make the history almost palpable.  Running through the heart of Segovia, you will find an almost completely intact Roman Aqueduct.  The cathedral is astounding, and the Alcazár is beautiful.  On the outskirts of the city, you will find a 12th Century Templar church.  Cáceres is a place where it feels like time has literally stood still.  The old zone is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is one of the most well-preserved Cascos Antiguos I have ever been in!  Córdoba played an important role in the history of the country, especially during the Arabic rule.  The heart of the city is the Mesquiza, a beautiful masque which overwhelms the visitor.  In the center of the masque, you'll find a Cathedral!  It feels like you have walked into a different building, city, and time period.  Santiago de Compostela is in the far north of Spain, and never formed a part of the Moorish Kingdom.  The city is built around what they believe to be the remains of St. James, and the large, ornate Cathedral will literally take your breath away.
Time of the year to travel: Córdoba in the south will boast wonderful weather all year around.  Segovia and Cáceres should be visited during the spring or summer months, as the surrounding landscape is best at this time.  Santiago de Compostela should be visited during the summer.  Being that it is in Galicia, the region with the most rain, there are only a few months when you won't be required to carry an umbrella with you wherever you go.

La Mezquita in Córdoba

3.  In case you get sick...

No one wants to get sick when they're on vacation.  But, let's be serious... being trapped in the confined space of an airplane for 8-10 hours, sleep deprived, and physically exhausted isn't a great combination for the ideal image of health.
So, what should you do if you find yourself getting a sore throat, the sniffles, or any other form of illness while traveling through Spain?  The answer is simple!  Unless of course it's something serious which requires a doctor's immediate attention, you simply have to find a pharmacy!  They are everywhere, very easy to locate, and are where you will be able to get anything you need from cough syrup to ibuprofen!  The pharmacists working there are actually like doctors.  You explain your ailment to them, and they will be able to "prescribe" you what you need to take.  You won't be able to find Tylenol or DayQuil in the stores, as you can in the States.  So, be aware that if you start feeling like you're dragging a little the pharmacist will quickly become your best friend.

4.  How much should I tip?

The answer to this question is easy!!  YOU DON'T!  Tipping in Spain isn't expected.  If you're feeling generous, you can leave something small (like the change you have left over after you pay).  But, long story short, tipping isn't part of the culture!

5.  Let's Eat! - Timetables, Menús, Tapas, and Hey! Where's my water?!

Eating and vacation go hand in hand!  I firmly believe that to experience a culture, you need to experience the cuisine.  Spain has an amazing gastronomy!  Everything from seafood to pork, beef to yummy veggies will be on almost any menu you find! So, let me take just a minute to talk about what to expect when you go out to eat in Spain.

In one of the blog posts I added a link to earlier, I mention the weird eating schedules.  Lunch goes from 2-4pm and dinner from 8-10pm.  Kitchens generally close during the off hours, so you won't be able to get a big meal from 4-8pm, generally.  Lunch is the big meal in Spain, but that doesn't mean they won't serve a large dinner as well.

When looking at a lunch or dinner menu, you'll probably notice a few things worth noting.  One is the "Menú del día".  This is a common thing at Spanish restaurants, and generally consists of a first course, second course, dessert, and drink all for a bundled price (generally between 8-15 Euros each).  This is a GREAT option if you're really hungry and want to get a lot of food for not a lot of cost!  There's also the option of ordering a "plato combinado" which is just a typical dish, such as chicken and fries, or something like that.  Be careful though!  These platos combinados may be cheaper than the full-blown menú, but you'll get a lot less food, and still have to pay for your drink.  So, the menú is probably the better option.

Speaking of drinks, you'll notice that in restaurants and such they don't give you a glass of water.  If you want water, you have to order it, and it comes in a bottle, and you have to pay for it.  You can try to ask for tap water (agua del grifo), but some places won't serve it.

And, as always, you have the option of enjoying the local cuisine through the wonderful Spanish tradition of the "tapeo".  Pinchos (or tapas) are usually small portions of food that you can order along with your drink at bars or cafés.  Depending on the city or region you're in the tapa culture will be different.  In the north, in cities like Bilbao and San Sebastian, the pinchos are elaborate and delicious!  They usually cost between 2-3 euros each, and you'll need to hop from place to place, sampling different ones as you go!  In cities like Cáceres in the southwest,  the tapas are large and delicious!  They cost about 5 euros, and can be shared easily between friends.

No matter where you go, you'll find delicious food and a unique culture behind it.  Don't be afraid to get out there and try a little of everything!

Cheese plate in Cáceres

Pincho in Bilbao

What to expect when you're an American in Spain

This post is one that I've recycled from an earlier blog.  I've edited it a little, taken a few things out and added a few more.  Basically, this list highlights the things that I, as an American, found surprising, interesting, or just plain weird about Spain when I first got here.

1.  Lunch and Dinner SUPER late!!
Lunch time is usually between 2-4p and dinner between 8-10p.  This can be very frustrating when you get hungry around 5-6p and nowhere is open!  This isn't to say that the restaurant might not be open, so don't be fooled.  A lot of places will keep the cafe/bar section open all day.  BUT the kitchen will be closed, meaning that unless they have tapas sitting out on the counters, you're not going to find any food.
*Use this time to explore more of the local tapa culture of the place!  Try some pinchos with a coffee, or a caña with a slice of tortilla!*

2.  Daily "hora de comida"
From 2pm until (roughly) 5pm everything closes (except a few bigger stores and the cafes/ bars).
This is true for some tourist stops and monuments, so be sure that you check the schedules of the places you want to see before you plan your day!  In major cities- Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, etc.- the "hora de comida" (lunch time) doesn't necessarily affect the places you'll want to see.  But in smaller cities- Segovia, Zamora, Salamanca- this may be an issue.

3.  Throwing napkins and trash on the floors of bars and cafes
This is something that really shocked me at first.  When you're in a cafe or bar, and you watch the other patrons finish with their drinks, you'll probably be as surprised as I was when I saw what they did with their trash for the first time.  They just toss it on the floor!
I asked a friend who has a bar why this is.  His explanation actually makes a lot of sense!  It makes it easier for the waiters to clean up.  When the "rush" times have died down, you'll see an employee come out with a broom, and bing, bang, boom!  The place is clean!  Leaving napkins and trash on the plates for them to scrape off will actually cause them to have to add an additional step to their service process.  It may not seem like much on a slow day, but during the lunch or dinner rush, when the bars and tapa restaurants are packed tightly and speed is the waiter's friend, being able to just simply dump the plates, cups, whatever into the sink without thinking twice will save them precious seconds.

4.  Walking EVERYWHERE... ALL the time!!
If you're going to be in Spain for any time at all, you'll learn this quickly.  To be honest, my first week here my legs were almost always sore from walking up and down hills, along long streets, and basically for hours on end.  Be prepared for this, and bring comfy shoes!

5.  Public Transportation Expectations
When you don't actually have to walk, and decide to take a bus/train/etc.  There is one interesting little social norm or expectation I didn't expect!  Thankfully, my roommate and friend (who's Spanish) scolded me for breaking this cardinal rule before someone else did.
DO NOT RECLINE YOUR CHAIR!  If there is someone behind you, you have to ask their permission before leaning your chair back.  If no one is there, but someone sits down later, you're expected to put your seat back in it's upright position.

6.  The lights in the bathrooms.
Alright, so, when you go to a bar, cafe, restaurant whatever, and you go to the bathroom the lights are generally on, right?! Well, not here! You have to turn them on, and they're generally on a timer.  Be prepared, because sometimes that timer doesn't last very long, and you'll need to reach back up and turn the light on again!

7.  Not to mention every toilet flushes differently.
Ok, not EVERY toilet, but yes, I have seen more creative ways of flushing toilets here than ever in my life.  There are some with buttons, some with those pull things that come down from the ceiling, some with foot petal things and the list goes on.  It's always an adventure!
Oh, and ps I have yet to see a toilet with the normal handle on the side like we have in the States.

8.  To continue with the bathroom oddities...
Even though in nicer restaurants and such this isn't a problem, if you're going to be traveling through bus or train stations you'll want to take note: there is almost NEVER toilet paper or soap in the bathrooms!  Just keep a packet of tissues and a thing of hand sanitizer with you, though, and that won't be a problem!

Top 5 Most Underrated Spanish Cities

If I'm going to be honest, I haven't been to a city in Spain that I haven't been able to find something special about.  Whether it's the food, history, people, architecture, or museums and monuments, all across the country there seems to be an endless list of places to go and things to discover.  However, after being here for almost 4 years, I have found a number of cities which I will gladly go back to if I have the chance.  What's funny about this list, however, is that these cities probably don't appear on the first-time traveler to Spain's list of places to go.

While the larger cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, or Valencia all have amazing things to offer, if you want to get a first-hand experience with a more intimate side of the country, these 5 cities are a great place to start!

In this list I will include things to see, reasons to go there, and if applicable a nearby destination for a quick day trip, among other things.

The cities are listed in no particular order.  I've also included a link to my full-length blog post about each place.

1.  Oursense

Region: Galicia
History: Dating back to the Roman Empire.  Destroyed by the Moors in 716 and rebuilt in 877.  Wasn't urbanized until the 12th Century.
Major Attraction: The "Burgas" or "Termas" - natural hot springs
Other Attractions:  Roman Bridge, Millennium Bridge, Carnival celebrations
What makes it special: The surrounding landscape is lush and green and the small city center is quaint and inviting.
For link to my full blog blog HERE

As Burgas: Natural Hot Springs

Roman Bridge

Public Termas and Galician Landscape

2.  Cáceres

Region:  Extremadura

History:  Changed hands many times: Roman Empire (founded in 25BC), Arabic Empire, Christian Empire

Major Attraction: Old Zone

What makes it special:  The food is absolutely amazing!  The old zone is extremely well-preserved and boasts buildings from all of the major occupations which the city experienced. 

Optional day trip: Mérida- Roman ruins

Link to my full blog post HERE

In the Old Zone

Plaza de San Jorge

Roman Ruins in Mérida

3.  Segovia

Region: Castilla y León

History: Formed part of the Roman Empire, and believed to be the site of a famous battle which took place in 75 BC.  Abandoned during the Arabic Empire, until reconquered during the Christian Reconquista

Major Attraction: The Roman Aqueduct

Other Attractions:  The Alcazár, The Jewish Quarter, The Cathedral

What makes it special:  Small, warm, traditional feel to the entire old zone.  A ton of history, and delicious food!  

Optional day trip: La Granja (royal summer home with amazing gardens)

Link to my full blog post HERE

The Cathedral

At the Aqueduct

La Granja

Gardens at La Granja

View of the Alcazar from a distance

4.  Ronda

Region: Andalusia

History: Founded originally by the Celts in the 6th Century B.C.  Was once a strategic position during the Arabic empire, and formed part of the Kingdom of Granada.
Main Attraction: The "New Bridge"
Other Attractions:  The Bull Ring- the oldest in Spain
What makes it special:  The city is absolutely beautiful!  The food is yummy, and the surrounding landscape is completely breath-taking
Link to my full blog post HERE

The Bull Ring

The "Puente Nuevo" (New Bridge)

Amazing Landscape

5.  Salamanca

Region: Castilla y León
History:  Boasts the oldest university in Spain, founded in 1218.  The city has been involved in educational and ideological advances since its origins.
Major Attraction:  La Universidad de Salamanca
Other Attractions:  Plaza Mayor, Las Catedrales, La Casa de las Conchas
What makes it special: A long and rich history.  The city has a small old zone, but it's absolutely beautiful.  The specific stones which were used, in addition to the lighting which illuminates it at night makes the city seem to glow at night.  Very yummy food!
Optional Day Trip: Ávila
Link to my full blog post HERE

In the Plaza Mayor

Shell House ("Casa de las Conchas")

View of the Cathedrals from the other side of the Río Tormes

The Wall ("Muralla") in Ávila

Ronda: The not so "pueblo" Pueblo Blanco

The Pueblos Blancos (white villages) of Spain's southern region Andalusia are celebrated for their indescribable beauty.  One of the most famous Ronda has a long and intriguing history.  Originally founded by the Celts in the 6th Century BC, the city changed hands multiple times before being conquered during the Christian Reconquista of the peninsula in 1485.

The name "pueblo" usually brings to mind images of quaint country-side villages and hidden-away treasures.  Ronda, however, doesn't seem to have a very "pueblo" feel to it.  It is a huge tourist attraction, and in reality isn't that small (with a population over 35,000).  Despite all this, the warm Andalusian sun and the spectacular landscape still overwhelm the visitor with a feeling of tranquility.

If you're looking for a warm getaway still sprinkled with typical Spanish culture and flair, this city may just be for you!  While it is possible to find the stereotypical attractions one expects when traveling to the south of Spain (Flamenco dancing, warm weather, and gazpacho, to name a few) Ronda still offers various cultural and historical elements which will educate as well entertain the enthusiastic visitor.

The main sight in Ronda is hard to miss, as you will need to cross it to enter the old zone of the city.  The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) is a massive stone construction standing 390 feet above the floor of the canyon it crosses.  The name is somewhat misleading, because even though it is the newest of the three bridges found in the city, it's not that new by modern standards, being completed in 1793.

If you're feeling adventurous, and want to get some amazing views of the Puente Nuevo (see above) there is a little trail (easy to find) which will lead you down into the gorge.  Being that it gets hot pretty quickly in Ronda, it's a good idea to plan this outing for the morning, as the hot afternoon sun will not make it any easier.  

Want to experience some traditional Spanish culture?  Well, Ronda is a great place to see a bullring up close and personal.  The oldest bullring in Spain, completed in 1784 is another famous landmark of the city.  

Another famous destination in Ronda is the Arabic Baths.  They date back to the 13th Century.  They are located a little outside of the center, so be prepared to walk for a little (about 10-15 minutes) and up and down a few hills along the way! 

If you wish to continue your journey into the rich Arabic historical influences in the city, the "Palacio del Rey Moro" (Palace of the Morrish King) is another historical landmark.  Within the Palacio, you will find the Secret Mine.  Legend has it that Muslim King Abomelic built this structure back in the 14th Century.  It's rumored that the mine contains hidden houses, palaces, bathing chambers, among other things.  

From the entrance to the Palacio del Rey Moro, you can get some amazing views of another famous Ronda sight, the Hanging Gardens.  This national monument was designed and installed in 1912, and during the peak growing seasons is absolutely stunning.  Unfortunately, we made our trip to Ronda during the end of the blooming period, so we weren't able to enjoy the gardens in all of their glory.  The views, however, are still spectacular.  

Like the lovely Spanish city that it is, Ronda has some great food and a very unique tapa culture.  If you're looking for somewhere to relax and have a bite to eat after a busy day of sight-seeing or a relaxing afternoon of strolling through the winding, hilly streets, the Plaza del Socorro is a great place to start.  Order a plate of "tapas mixtas" or try a combination of hot and cold tapas (usually sold in a bundled package- 2 each for 6 euros for example) and enjoy sitting at one of the many outdoor terraces, taking in the view and Spanish sun.  

Ronda is a perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy the relaxing Spanish culture, breath-taking landscape, and delicious gastronomy!  While it is often crowded with tourists, the city itself still has its own unique charm and personality.  With various monuments and landmarks that highlight the different historical and cultural elements that have gone into the formation of the city, the visitor can experience not only the ancient past with the Moorish influences but also the more recent and stereotypically traditional side of Spain.  A trip to this not so "pueblo" Pueblo Blanco can be both relaxing and exciting, educational and delicious, and will not disappoint any visitor eager to see this romantic and overwhelmingly beautiful side of the country.  

Cáceres: A Historian's Dream and a Foodie's Paradise

Located in the south-western region known as Extremadura, Cáceres is a truly hidden gem of Spain.  With thousands of years of history, and some of the best cuisine in the peninsula, the city has something for everyone!

Dating back to 25BC, the city of Cáceres has a rich and full past.  It has changed hands and even names various times.  Originally known as Caesarina during the Roman occupation, and Hizn Qazriz under the Arab rule, the city fell into the hands of the Christians during the Reconquista in 1229.  It was then that it was given the name it boasts today, which still contains clear connection to the city's extensive history.  During the period of history in which Spain as a country flourished greatly, the discovery of America, Cáceres also saw an influential period of growth.  Many families who returned from their voyages to the New World used their newly found fortunes to build homes and small palaces there.

The city has various interesting and notable museums and sights that will certainly hold an allure for anyone with an interest in history.  For only 2.50 Euros, you can get a ticket to go up into the Torre de Bujaco, located directly off the Plaza Mayor.  From there, you will get amazing views of the Plaza and landscape surrounding the city.

For an additional 50 cents, you can get a bundled package to also visit the Torre de los Pozos, located in the Jewish Quarter of the city.  The views aren't as good as those from the Torre de Bujaco, but the museum is interesting and educational.  There is also a free museum located near the Jewish Quarter, the Museo de Cáceres, which outlines the complex and interesting history of the city itself.  

However, if you don't feel that spending your days walking through museums and monuments is something you find interesting, just taking a simple stroll through the winding streets will still leave you saying "whoa!"  The breath-taking Casco Antiguo has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site, and is well worth the praise.  When walking through the old zone, it's hard not to feel that you've been transported back in time.  There is absolutely no graffiti to be found, and the very low number of tourist shops and stalls keeps the authentic feel in the air.  If it weren't for the cars which pass by occasionally, you may find yourself actually believing you've been sent back to the 15th or 16th century.  

Some of the prettiest places in the city are the Plaza de Santa María and the Plaza de San Jorge.  

In the Plaza de San Jorge

In the Plaza de Santa María 

No trip to Cáceres would be complete without sampling the amazing and renowned cuisine.  Like many Spanish cities, Cáceres has its very own tapa culture.  It's unlike any that I've experience before.  While in cities such as Bilbao, where the tapa scene is still famous and delicious, you will find that tapas are generally small, and it's expected that you will bounce around from one place to another sampling little portions of lots of things as you go.  However, in Cáceres, the tapas are huge, and it's true that they cost more (on average 5-6 euros each), but if you go with other people and each order something different you'll easily and happily be able to share.  As a warning, these places fill up quick, and it's a good idea to go ahead of time, get your seat saved, and fill up in one place!  And make sure you're aware of what time it is when you go.  Most places don't start serving lunch until around 1:30pm, then close the kitchen around 4pm, and don't open again for dinner until 8 or 8:30 that night.  

I could give a long list of wonderful places to eat, but wandering into somewhere new and discovering it for yourself is half the fun.  But, I will mention two places that I personally think shouldn't be missed. 

The first is Restaurante Tapería Ibérico.  (Be careful, a lot of places have the name "tapería".  This is more a way of letting you know they're a tapas place, so be sure if you want to go to this one, you check the name twice.)  It's located in the Plaza de San Juan, and the food, service, and atmosphere are all top notch.  The downstairs is a bar, but upstairs you can be seated in a quaint and small dining area, where you will be waited on by friendly, enthusiastic waiters dressed in suspenders and bowties.  Here, my hubby and I tried the typical Extremeño dish "Migas".  "Migas" means "bread crumbs" and that's essentially what this dish is, except a million times better.  They are warmed and cooked with little pieces of chorizo, and melt in your mouth.  We also tried a Brocheta de Pollo (chicken skewers) and had a glass of wine each, and total spent13 Euros. 

Migas

Brochetas de Pollo

Our favorite place, by far, was the Cacharrería.  It's a classy, inviting little tapas restaurant that fills up quick!  Fortunately we got there early, because 15 minutes before it opened a line started forming at the door.  The place is small, and probably seats about 50 people total.  We spent over an hour and a half there, and didn't mind a bit.  Here, we tried the Puntas de solomillo (a pork dish) the Falafel, and literally the most amazing cheese plate I've ever had!  (Extremadura is famous for their local cheeses).  This, plus four glasses of wine brought out total to 31.70 Euros, and it was well worth it!

Puntas de Solomillo

Falafel

Cheese Plate

Let me take a moment and go back to speaking to the history buffs.  While Cáceres is a historical adventure in itself, if you're looking for an easy way to fill a day, a quick trip to the nearby city Mérida is right up your alley.  This city boasts some of the most remarkable Roman ruins in Spain, and while the old zone isn't as impressive as that of Cáceres, the experience is still awe inspiring.  Visitors have the option of choosing different types of tickets which will give you access to anything from everything to just the important basics.  Being that we didn't have more than a few hours to spend in the city ourselves, we got the basic entrance.  We were able to see the Teatro and Anfiteatro. For free, near the train station, you can also find the remains of an old aqueduct.  It's nowhere near as well preserved as that of Segovia, but it's still an impressive sight.

The Anfiteatro, constructed during the 1st Century AD, is where the ancient Romans held their entertainment which took place in the form of gladiator battles. 

In the Anfiteatro

Constructed between 15 and 16 BC, the Roman Teatro is simply magnificent.  Here, the people would gather for plays and other theatrical performances.  Today, the Theater is still used during the Festival of Classical Theater.  

The Teatro Romano

Other sites in the city are the Aqueducto, which I mentioned previously, and the Temple of Diana.  

Templo de Diana

The Aqueduct 

A trip to Cáceres may not appear at the top of most people's lists of places to see in Spain, but the hidden jewel of Extremadura will surely not disappoint.  With amazing food, breath-taking architecture and palpable history, this city is truly one of the most impressive Spanish cities I have been in.  The people are kind and even the friendly local on the street will stop to give you recommendations on the best places to eat.  If you're looking for a chance to get to know Spain historically or gastronomically this place is for you!

In the Plaza Mayor

In the Plaza Mayor