Top 7 Things to Do in Avila: A Medieval City

You might not have heard about this small city, but visiting Avila is like traveling back in time. Its narrow streets are full of history, culture, and mysticism. One thing that makes it unique and unparalleled, however, is its impressive city walls. The landscape it creates is, by far, one of the most beautiful images of the highest province capital of Spain.

While the city is enchanting during the day, it’s even more spectacular at night! You can enjoy fantastic food and unique cultural heritage by spending a couple of days in this city. Today at Civitatis, we’ll share with you the top 7 things to do in Avila, Spain’s medieval walled city.

Wall of Avila

Naturally, any adventure in Avila starts at the city walls. This defensive construction has become synonymous with the capital of the province of Avila. It’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, together with the Romanesque churches of the city.

The wall of Avila has a perimeter of 2.5 kilometers, 87 towers, and 9 gates. Did you know it’s considered the best-preserved walled urban enclosure in the world? Of its total perimeter, you can walk for 1.7 kilometers in two different stretches that are not linked to each other. Walking along the walls is like traveling back in time to the Middle Ages!

Avila Cathedral

After exploring the first of Avila’s masterpieces, the second awaits– the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Did you know that it’s built into the wall itself? That’s why the exterior looks more like a fortress than a temple.

The cathedral’s interior, considered the first Gothic cathedral in Spain, appears even more majestic once you get inside. Within its walls are hidden treasures such as the altarpiece of Pedro Berruguete, the tomb of El Tostado, or the tomb of Adolfo Suarez.

Mercado Chicago Square

The next spot worth visiting will be the Mercado Chico Square. Here, you’ll find the Town Hall and the Church of San Juan Bautista, and it’s also a meeting point for both locals and visitors. Between its arches, you’ll find many cafes with terraces to sit down and enjoy drinks and tapas.

After leaving ”el Chico”, why not sample a delicious Avarian steak at one of the many restaurants in the area?

Plaza del Mercado Grande Square

In the afternoon, make sure you visit the Plaza del Mercado Grande square – you could say that it’s both the main square and the heart of the city.

Similar to the Mercado Chico Square, this is a great place to have a snack or a cup of coffee on one of the terraces surrounding the esplanade. There, the church of San Pedro and the famous sculpture of Santa Teresa in the very center stand out among the rest of the square’s elements.

Plaza de San Vicente Square

Avila is a walking town, so during your visit, consider a pleasant stroll to the Basilica of San Vicente, located in the square that bears the same name. The Basilica of San Vicente is a must-see when thinking of great Christian temples in Avila. This church was built mostly in Romanesque style but also with Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Did you know it’s considered the city’s second most important architectural complex after the cathedral? In fact, for many locals, it’s one of the greatest unsung treasures of Avila.

Convent and Museum of Santa Teresa

You cannot leave Avila without learning more about the history of the city’s most famous saint. The adventure continues at the Convent of Santa Teresa, just a few steps from the Mercado Chico square and next to the city wall.

You can visit the church, the museum and the relics room, where you can get souvenirs from the visit. The history of Santa Teresa is closely related to the city– she left an everlasting mark that endures to this day.

Palace of Superunda

Avila is also known for its beautiful palaces. There are many examples, so deciding which one to visit is often difficult. But in particular, the Palace of Superunda is a must.

This Gothic and Renaissance building, influenced by Italian art, is not just a masterpiece in itself but also houses them. You can tour its interior and see the exhibition of paintings by Guido Caprotti and even pieces by Joaquín Sorolla.

Cuatro Postes

The view of the city from this location is second to none. The wall, the cathedral, and the whole old town are concentrated in the same image. But if you want unbeatable views, then we recommend a hot air balloon ride over Avila for the perfect bird’s-eye view of the city. Or for the more adventurous, flyover tour of Avila that is sure to take your breath away!

Day Trips from Madrid

If you find yourself in Spain but not exactly in the medieval town of Avila, we’ve got you covered! This small city makes for a perfect day trip from Madrid. For example, if you’re visiting the capital city, check out a convenient day trip to visit two medieval cities nearby, Avila and Segovia. Or if you’re feeling really adventurous, try out our day trip where we’ll visit three medieval cities in one day; Toledo, Avila, and Segovia.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s something for everybody to enjoy in this special corner of medieval history in Spain. A great way to end any day in Avila is by enjoying a spookily good free walking tour of the legends of Avila. Regardless of how you spend your time in the medieval town, make sure to have Civitatis by your side.