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Visiting and travelling around Spain is a delight for the senses, and even more so if you decide to travel by car to the nine extraordinary World Heritage Cities that we suggest in this article. Though they aren’t the only Spanish cities to hold that status, they’re an excellent example of the rich heritage this country offers.
Booking a car hire at Malaga Airport is a good place to start. From there we head to…
Córdoba, one of Spain’s World Heritage Cities
Córdoba possesses the glow of old Al-Andalus and the mark that the Arab culture left on the Iberian Peninsula. In Córdoba, a city replete with squares, gardens and winding streets, the Jewish Quarter and the beautiful Córdoba Mosque, considered the quintessential Muslim monument in the West, are must-sees.
The Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Castle of the Christian Monarchs) is another gem that you have to visit. And in case you decide to head there, we’ve left a guide that details what you can see in Córdoba in two days.
Mérida, a World Heritage City of Roman Origin
A 300 km journey takes us to Mérida. The vestiges of the old Roman Empire are the stand-out attraction in this World Heritage City. The Theatre, Amphitheatre and the Arch of Trajan are a magnificent trio.
Cáceres, between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance
We head for Cáceres, which has an old town with major monuments, fortresses, Renaissance palaces and medieval squares.
Salamanca, a World Heritage City with one of the World’s Oldest Universities
We now find ourselves in a fabulous city that stands out in large part due to the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in the world. On the walls there, you should look for the famous frog, which, according to legend, brings luck to the students.
The Plaza Mayor (Main Square) is also a great place for a well-deserved rest. Undoubtedly, these cities are all excellent places for a romantic weekend getaway. Let’s keep going, in case you want to organise one…
Ávila, a Medieval City
In Ávila, you’ll feel as though you’re in the Middle Ages. It’s the best example of what a fortified medieval city was like. The City Walls of Ávila are the best conserved in Europe, and they conceal 15th-century palaces and the beautiful Gothic Cathedral, the oldest of its kind in Spain.
Segovia and the magic of a Roman World Heritage City
Segovia has some of the finest Roman remains in Europe. The Roman Aqueduct truly is a sight to behold. A standout piece of architecture.
Segovia’s Old Town, with its majestic houses, the Cathedral and the Alcázar de Segovia, is the stuff of dreams.
As for food, there’s no competition: suckling pig.
Alcalá de Henares, the Birthplace of Cervantes
Alcalá de Henares was the first purpose-built university city in the world, and it served as a model for others. Explore Calle Mayor (Main Street), with its Renaissance courtyards, palaces and monasteries, on your way to the University of Alcalá.
Here we can visit the House of Miguel de Cervantes. This is a stirring visit, since the author of The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha was born in this house. If you want to find out more about this city, we have another article where we tell you what to see in Alcalá de Henares.
Toledo and its cultural melting pot
Next stop: Toledo. A city with 2000 years of history, and where Muslims, Jews and Christians have lived together in perfect harmony for centuries.
Do you want to rent a cheap car in Malaga for this trip?
Piece of cake. Take advantage of our car rental offers and book your vehicle for the perfect getaway.
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