Olivenza

Olivenza is a fascinating border town with a dual Spanish-Portuguese heritage, as it was part of Portugal until 1801. Its architecture, street names, and even the local dialect reflect this Portuguese influence. The town has a well-preserved medieval and Renaissance centre with whitewashed houses, Manueline-style windows, and a massive castle.

By Plane

The nearest airports are accessible by road. Car hire is recommended for the region.

By Train

Regional Renfe Media Distancia trains connect the main towns. AVE high-speed services serve Badajoz (for Extremadura) and Camp de Tarragona (for Catalunya).

By Car / Road

Olivenza is 25 km south of Badajoz, close to the Portuguese border.

Historic centres are best explored on foot. For inter-town travel, a car or bus is recommended.

• Castillo de Olivenza — a 15th-century castle with a massive tower (Torre del Homenaje) housing a municipal museum. Free.

• Santa María del Castillo — a Gothic church with a stunning Manueline portal, a rare example of Portuguese architectural style in Spain.

• Puerta de Alconchel — one of the surviving gates of the old city walls.

• Walk the historic streets and try to spot the Portuguese architectural influences.

• Visit the olive oil mills in the surrounding countryside.

• Restaurante El Castillo (Olivenza) — Portuguese-Spanish fusion cuisine overlooking the castle. Mid-range.
• A Tasca do Zé (Olivenza) — rustic Portuguese-influenced tapas bar. Budget.
• La Bodega de Olivenza — regional Extremaduran dishes including migas and caldereta. Mid-range.

Local wines and vermouth are the traditional choices.

Budget

Budget guesthouses and hostales offer private rooms from €30–45 per night.

Mid-range

Mid-range: Hotel Heredero — a modern hotel in the town centre, doubles from €40–70.

Upscale

Paradores and luxury rural hotels offer doubles from €80–160 per night.

• Local craft products and artisanal foods
• Iberian ham and other cured meats
• Local wine and olive oil

• Mérida — spectacular Roman ruins and the National Museum of Roman Art
• Monfragüe National Park — one of Europe's best birdwatching destinations
• Salamanca — a beautiful university city, 2 hours north via the A-66