Things to Do in Baeza
Baeza is a small Renaissance town in the olive groves of Jaén. Together with nearby Úbeda, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Honey-coloured palaces, quiet squares and sweeping views fill its old centre. Better still, everything sits within easy walking distance. Here are 13 of the best things to do in Baeza. For practical tips, read our Baeza travel guide.
Plaza del Pópulo
Start in the Plaza del Pópulo, also known as the Plaza de los Leones. This lively square is the heart of old Baeza. The Fuente de los Leones stands in the middle, and the Antiguas CarnicerÃas, once the town’s butcher shops, line one side. You will also spot the Arco de Villalar and the Puerta de Jaén. The tourist office sits right here, which makes it a handy first stop. It tops our list because it sums up Baeza’s history in one spot. Already in Spain? Get directions.
Catedral de Baeza
The Catedral de Baeza stands on the Plaza de Santa MarÃa, a beautiful square with a historic fountain. The cathedral grew on the site of a former mosque, and its mix of styles shows centuries of change. Look for the Puerta de la Luna, or Moon Gate, and climb the tower for rooftop views. It makes the list because it is Baeza’s most important religious building. Tickets are cheaper with the Úbeda and Baeza tourist pass, so consider booking one. Buy tickets. Get directions.
Palacio de Jabalquinto
The Palacio de Jabalquinto is one of the finest examples of Isabelline Gothic style in Andalusia. Builders began it in the late 15th century. Its richly decorated façade looks almost like stone lace. Step inside to admire the Renaissance courtyard, added in the late 16th century. Today the palace belongs to the Universidad Internacional de AndalucÃa. We included it because it is a jaw-dropping surprise on a quiet street. Get directions.
Iglesia de Santa Cruz
Right opposite the palace stands the Iglesia de Santa Cruz. This 13th-century church is one of the few Romanesque buildings in Andalusia. Its simple stone walls and rounded arches feel calm and ancient. Inside, the curved apse shows frescoes from the early 16th century. Visit it after Jabalquinto to enjoy the contrast. It earns its place as the oldest-feeling corner of Baeza. Get directions.
Antigua Universidad
The Antigua Universidad opened in 1538 and taught students until 1824. Its mannerist courtyard has a lovely double arcade. The poet Antonio Machado taught French grammar here between 1912 and 1919. You can still visit his classroom, the Aula de Antonio Machado. Entry is free, but opening hours are limited to weekday mornings, so plan ahead. We included it because it lets you step into a poet’s daily life. Get directions.
Torre de los Aliatares
The Torre de los Aliatares stands on Plaza de España. This 25-metre tower dates from the 12th century. It is one of the best surviving pieces of Baeza’s Moorish city walls. Most of the walls fell after Isabella the Catholic ordered their demolition. However, this tower survived. It makes the list as a striking reminder of Baeza’s Islamic past. Get directions.
Ayuntamiento de Baeza
The Ayuntamiento de Baeza, or town hall, is a Plateresque gem. Its richly carved 16th-century façade rewards a close look. The building stands on Plaza Cardenal Benavides, just north of the Plaza del Pópulo. Many walking tours begin here for good reason. Pause for a photo before you wander on. We chose it because it shows how wealthy Baeza was in the Renaissance. Get directions.
Paseo de las Murallas
The Paseo de las Murallas runs along the edge of the old town, behind the cathedral. It is also called the Paseo de Antonio Machado. From here, you can look out over endless olive groves towards the Sierra Mágina. Come at sunset, when the fields glow gold. A bench and a snack make this a perfect, free break. It earns its spot as the best viewpoint in town. Get directions.
Mirador Antonio Machado
Just outside the old centre, the Mirador Antonio Machado offers another superb viewpoint. A monument to the poet stands here, and the landscape matches his verses. Hikers and photographers love the wide horizon. The walk from the old town takes only a few minutes. It makes the list because it shows why poets fell for this region. Get directions.
Centro de Interpretación de la Baeza Medieval
The Centro de Interpretación de la Baeza Medieval sits inside the Torreón de la Puerta de Úbeda. Exhibits explain how Baeza looked during the Middle Ages. The best part comes at the top. From the highest point of the tower, you get one of the prettiest views of the town. The visit takes about ten minutes, so it fits easily into a busy day. It earns its place for the rooftop panorama alone. Get directions.
Olive Oil Tasting at La Casa del Aceite
Olive oil is the soul of this region, so a tasting is a must. At La Casa del Aceite, you can sample extra virgin oils and learn what makes each one special. The visit takes about 15 minutes. Many people buy a bottle to take home. The Úbeda and Baeza tourist pass includes a tasting. It makes the list because it brings the surrounding landscape to your palate. Get directions.
Tapas at Taberna el Pájaro
After all that sightseeing, grab a bite at Taberna el Pájaro on Paseo Portales Tundidores. This cosy tavern has exposed-brick walls and outdoor tables. It is known for its traditional dishes and surprisingly good white prawns. Google scores it 4.5 from nearly 1,700 reviews. Families often fill it, so go early. It earns its place as a classic Baeza tapas stop. Get directions.
Úbeda
Úbeda is Baeza’s UNESCO twin, and it sits only a few kilometres away. Its grand plazas, palaces and chapels make a perfect half-day trip. A short bus ride makes the journey simple. Check Bus Schedules and secure your seat on Omio. Read our guide to Úbeda to plan your visit. It makes the list because the two towns work best together. Get directions.
Sierra de Cazorla
For a change of scenery, head to the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park. It is the largest protected area in Spain, with pine forests, rivers and rugged peaks. Hikers will find plenty of trails and wildlife. The drive takes about an hour, and a car makes the trip much easier. Hire a car with Discovercars. Our Cazorla guide has more tips. We included it as the best wild escape from Baeza. Get directions.
Baeza rewards curious travellers with Renaissance beauty, poetry and olive groves that stretch to the horizon. Spend a morning among its palaces, an afternoon tasting oil, and an evening watching the sun set over the walls. You will leave with great memories and probably a bottle of olive oil. So pack comfy shoes, bring your appetite and enjoy this golden corner of Andalusia.