Salamanca

Where to stay

Most budget hostels cluster in the Casco Antiguo, within a few blocks of Plaza Mayor. That puts you walking distance from the Universidad de Salamanca on Calle Libreros and the two cathedrals on Plaza de Anaya.

Getting around

• The nave of the Catedral Nueva is free to enter. Pay only if you want the Ieronimus ticket, which covers the towers and the adjoining Catedral Vieja.
• Buses to Madrid are cheaper and often faster than the train. Several companies run the route from the bus station on the western edge of the center for cheap.
• The covered market near Plaza Mayor sells fresh produce and cheap sandwiches. Eating lunch there instead of at the Plaza-facing cafes makes a noticeable difference over a few days.

When to go

November and January are the quietest months for prices, while July and August fill hostels fast, and Semana Santa in March or April brings a sharp short-term spike.