Trujillo

Trujillo is a monumental hilltop town that was the birthplace of many of the most famous Spanish conquistadors, including Francisco Pizarro (conqueror of the Inca Empire). Its magnificent Plaza Mayor is one of the grandest squares in Spain, surrounded by Renaissance palaces built with gold from the Americas. The town's upper part preserves a Moorish castle and medieval streets.

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

Trujillo is 30 minutes east of Cáceres via the A-58 motorway.

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

• Plaza Mayor — one of Spain's most beautiful squares, surrounded by Renaissance palaces and dominated by the statue of Pizarro on horseback.

• Castillo de Trujillo — a 9th-century Moorish castle on the hilltop, with panoramic views over the plains. €3.

• Palacio de los Duques de San Carlos — a 16th-century palace with a magnificent Plateresque facade, now a convent.

• Palacio del Marqués de la Conquista — the ornate palace of Pizarro's family, with a corner balcony supported by carved figures.

• Visit during the Feria de Trujillo (April/May) which includes a Medieval Market and the National Cheese Fair.

• Climb the castle at sunset for sweeping views of the Extremadura plains.

• Explore the many conquistador-related museums and palaces.

• La Troya (C. Tiendas, 1) — the oldest restaurant in Trujillo, famous for its medieval-style decor and roast meats. 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: Parador de Trujillo — a 16th-century convent converted into a hotel, doubles from €55–100.

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