3 Day Itinerary for Badajoz
Badajoz sits right on the Portuguese border, and it deserves more than a quick stop. This 3 day itinerary for Badajoz mixes Moorish history, fine art and plenty of tapas. Better still, the old town is compact, so you can walk almost everywhere. Let’s dive in.
Day 1: Old Town and the Alcazaba
Morning. Start your trip at the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista. It looks more like a fortress than a church, with thick walls and sturdy towers. Step inside to see the carved choir stalls and the quiet cloister. Get directions.
Next, walk uphill to Plaza Alta. This 17th-century square sits below the old walls. Its red-and-white geometric facades make it one of the prettiest corners of the city. If you visit in late September, you may catch the Arab-style market of the Almossassa festival. Get directions.
From the square, climb up to the Alcazaba of Badajoz. This 12th-century fortress is one of the largest in Europe. Wander along the walls and look out over the Guadiana river. Spot the Torre de Espantaperros, the “Scare-Dogs Tower”, which has become the symbol of the city. The archaeological museum inside is also worth a look. Get directions.
Lunch. Head back down to La CacharrerÃa on Plaza Alta. It is known for grilled meats and fish cooked over the coals. Order a plate of Iberian ham to start. Then try the grilled pork, which is a local favourite. Get directions.
Afternoon. Take a slow stroll to Plaza de la Soledad. Here you will find La Giraldilla, a replica of the famous Giralda tower in Seville. Grab a coffee on a terrace and watch local life go by. Get directions.
Evening. Finish the day with tapas at La Corchuela, near Plaza de España. This friendly bar is famous for its Iberian meats and cheeses. Share a few plates and soak up the lively atmosphere. Get directions.
Day 2: Art, Bridges and the River
Morning. Today, begin with some modern art. The MEIAC is a striking circular building that sits on the site of an old prison. It shows work by Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American artists. Check the website for current exhibitions and any ticket details. Get directions.
Then switch to the classics at the Museo de Bellas Artes. Its collection includes works by Zurbarán, Morales, Goya, Picasso and DalÃ. It also features pieces by artists born in Badajoz. Take your time here. Get directions.
Lunch. Walk over to El Laurel Casa de Comidas y Vinos. This small restaurant is a local favourite. It serves quality Extremaduran produce with a creative twist. Leave room for the torrijas, a sweet treat that diners rave about. Book ahead if you can. Get directions.
Afternoon. Now head to the river. The Puerta de Palmas is a grand 16th-century gate, and it leads straight to the Puente de Palmas bridge. Cross the bridge slowly and enjoy the views of the Guadiana. Then wander through Parque de Castelar for a relaxed break under the trees. Get directions.
Evening. For dinner, return to Plaza Alta and book a table at Taberna La Casona Alta. The terrace has lovely views of the square, so it fills up quickly. Come early and order a mix of tapas. Get directions.
Day 3: Day Trip to Roman Mérida
On your final day, escape to Mérida. This is the capital of Extremadura, and it lies about an hour from Badajoz. It is packed with Roman ruins. In fact, it is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in Spain.
The train is an easy way to get there. It drops you close to the main sights. Check Train Schedules & Buy Tickets on Omio. Prefer the freedom of the road? You can hire a car instead. Hire a car with Discovercars. If you are already in Spain, you can click here to get directions from your current location.
Morning. Begin at the Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. The theatre still hosts summer performances, so you can sit where the Romans once sat. Next door, the amphitheatre once held gladiator fights. I recommend buying tickets in advance on the official Mérida monuments website, especially in busy months. Get directions.
After that, visit the National Museum of Roman Art. Its huge brick arches make the building a sight in itself. Inside, you will find mosaics, statues and everyday objects from Roman times. Get directions.
Afternoon. Take a break for lunch in one of the cafés near Plaza de España. Then walk to the Roman Bridge. At around 790 metres long, it is one of the longest surviving Roman bridges in the world. Walk across and look back at the old town. Get directions.
Evening. Return to Badajoz by train or car. If you still have energy, enjoy a final glass of local wine on Plaza Alta. It is a calm and pretty way to end your trip.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Badajoz. Summers get very hot, so plan outdoor sights for the morning. Badajoz is also famous for its carnival, which draws big crowds each year. Book your accommodation early if you plan to visit then. If you need help choosing accommodation, read Where to Stay in Badajoz for tips on places to suit your budget and holiday style.
Do you have a few extra days? Extremadura has plenty more to offer. For example, the lovely hilltop town of Trujillo makes a great next stop.
Badajoz is a laid-back, friendly city with big history and even bigger flavours. With these three days, you will see its best sights and taste its best food. Enjoy your trip!