Journey into the heart of Spain, discovering the historic cities of Madrid, Salamanca and Cáceres. Explore centuries of history, from Salamanca’s celebrated university heritage to the medieval streets and Renaissance palaces of Cáceres. Follow the historic Vía de la Plata into Extremadura and admire a fascinating mix of architectural and cultural treasures on this six-day self-drive tour starting and ending in Madrid.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Madrid: Visit Europe’s largest palace and the Reina Sofia Museum, where Picasso’s harrowing Guernica is among the masterpieces on display.
Salamanca: Discover one of Spain’s most historic university cities, with its magnificent Plaza Mayor, centuries-old university and wealth of monumental architecture.
Silver Way: Follow this historic route from Salamanca into Extremadura, travelling through the landscapes and historic towns of western Spain towards Cáceres.
Caceres: Explore the UNESCO-listed old town, a remarkably preserved ensemble of medieval streets, fortified houses, Renaissance palaces and historic churches.
Day 1: ARRIVAL MADRID
Arrive at Madrid airport, pick up your hired car, and drive to your hotel. The Spanish capital is one of Europe’s liveliest and most elegant cities, boasting beautiful boulevards, vast parks, bustling plazas, and numerous historic churches and palaces.
Overnight in Madrid.
Day 2: MADRID – SALAMANCA (215km – 2.15hrs)
After breakfast, depart Madrid and drive to Salamanca, one of Spain’s most historic cities, renowned for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage and centuries-old university tradition. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Salamanca.
Day 3: SALAMANCA
Discover Spain’s most venerable seat of learning, after indulging in a tasty breakfast. Salamanca University is the third-oldest in the world and the college gives the city a lively buzz. At the time of the university’s founding in 1134, Salamanca was in the Kingdom of Leon. Head to the heart of the action at the magnificent Plaza Mayor and savour the atmosphere. Every corner of Salamanca exudes history such as the Irish College, the Casa de las Conchas palace, the Monterrey Palace, the Art Noveau and Art Deco Museum at the Casa Lis, the Clavero Tower, the convents of Las Dueñas and St Stephen and the Clergy Church.
Overnight in Salamanca.
Day 4: SALAMANCA – CÁCERES (205km – 2hrs)
Bid farewell to Salamanca after breakfast at the hotel, heading for Cáceres in the region of Extremadura. Not to be outdone by its provincial neighbour, the medieval walled old town of Caceres is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with fortified homes, Renaissance palaces and historic churches. The walled area is compact and there are two main clusters of monuments. In the Santa Maria-Golfines area can be found the Renaissance Toledo-Moctezuma Palace as well as the Co-cathedral of St Mary. The area around the Plaza de las Veletas-Plaza San Mateo is dominated by the 15th century Cigüeñas Palace.
Overnight in Cáceres.
Day 5: CÁCERES – MADRID (300km – 3hrs)
After breakfast drive back to Madrid. Madrid is also home to the legendary golden triangle of art galleries, which house some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces so don't leave without visiting some of these galleries.
Overnight in Madrid.
Day 6: DEPART MADRID
Bid farewell to Madrid after breakfast at the hotel, driving towards the airport. Drop off the car at the rental office. Catch your departure flight back home.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain though a warm jumper and jacket are advisable in the cooler months. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
