Zamora is one of the most special places we have ever visited. It is known for its ancient Romanesque churches, but these are not the only sights to see. Beautiful squares, a meandering river, high city walls, and amazing tapas. What else are you looking for?! Here are our top 10 things to do in Zamora, Spain.
What To Do In Zamora?
- 1. Walk The Romanesque Mile
- 2. Go for Tapas at La Casa de Los Pinchitos
- 3. See the Best View at Mirador del Troncoso
- 4. Olivares Mills and Neighborhood
- 5. City Walls of Zamora
- 6. Plaza Mayor
- 7. Puente De La Piedra
- 8. Cool off at Maria Española Park
- 9. Romanesque Cathedral
- 10. Castle of Zamora
- Traveling through Spain ? Check out our other articles:
1. Walk The Romanesque Mile
Also known as ‘the open-air museum of Romanesque architecture,’ Zamora is home to many unique, old churches. The Romanesque Mile is a walk that leads you past eight of these churches built in the 11th and 12th centuries and finishes at the Cathedral. You can buy an entrance ticket at any church for €6,- (we recommend buying it at San Andres church since it is the first one of the eight). Even if you are not into churches, this is a must-visit when you are staying in Zamora. It is just dazzling how people built such structures a thousand years ago!
2. Go for Tapas at La Casa de Los Pinchitos
You will find the best tapas places in Zamora in the neighborhood of Zona Lobos. This area is in the northeast of the city center, with many amazing tapas places like El Rey de Los Pinchitos, El Abuelo, and Bar Caballero. Our personal favorite was La Casa de Los Pinchitos, which was clearly a popular choice judging by the number of locals crowding the small tables inside. They are famous for their Pinchitos (meat skewers), but they offer many different tapas for only €1,50!
3. See the Best View at Mirador del Troncoso
The best viewpoint of Zamora is at Mirador del Troncoso. This viewpoint offers an astonishing sight of the Stone Bridge, a 13th-century masterwork crossing the Douro River. Come here for a beautiful sunset view from the high city walls!
4. Olivares Mills and Neighborhood
The Aceñas de Olivares date back to the 10th century, making them the city’s oldest industry. The water mills were once used to produce flour and have been beautifully restored in the past decades. The Olivares neighborhood surrounding the mills is a sleepier part of the city, but it takes you 500 years back in time, which is why it is for sure worth a short visit!
5. City Walls of Zamora
Zamora used to be known as an unconquerable city due to its three sets of walls protecting the city centre. Nowadays the inner (oldest) and outer (newest) walls are largely still intact, while the second set was mostly broken down. The inner walls can be found around the oldest quarter surrounding the Cathedral and date back to the 11th century. The outer walls are perfect for long strolls at sunset, and date back to the 14th century.
6. Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor (like in every Spanish city) is the heart of Zamora. It is the perfect place for an afternoon drink at one of the many bars with outdoor seating. Next to this, do not miss out on the Iglesia de San Juan de Puerta Nueva, one of the Romanesque churches that is also part of the Romanesque Mile.
7. Puente De La Piedra
The Puente de la Piedra, or the Stone Bridge, is one of the oldest bridges in Zamora. With its sixteen arches, it provides a beautiful sight from afar (particularly from the Mirador del Troncoso viewpoint). Originally built in the 13th century, it has long been one of the trading arteries that made Zamora a wealthy city.
8. Cool off at Maria Española Park
If you are visiting Zamora in summer, it can get really hot. If you want to escape the heat Maria Española Park is the place to be. High trees and airconditioned coffee shops provide the perfect city escape in Zamora.
9. Romanesque Cathedral
The Romanesque Catedral del Salvador de Zamora is very special since it is much older than most Spanish cathedrals (14th century). Visit this cathedral to get taken back into time through old frescoes, big arches, and small windows.
10. Castle of Zamora
“The Castillo de Zamora is one of the most important landmarks in the city. Constructed in the 11th century, it has since protected Zamora. Nowadays, it is open for visits, and by visiting, you can enjoy some amazing views of the old city and the cathedral.
