Extremadura
Extremadura is one of Spain’s least known regions. It sits in the west of Spain. It borders Portugal in the east, Castile and Leon in the North, Castilla-La Mancha in the East and Andalucia in the South. The region has a population of just over 1 million people.
Extremadura is best known for its Iberian ham but it has a rich history.
The regional capital, Merida was founded as a Roman colony in 25 BC and has many significant Roman buildings on display. The Roman built Teatro Romano remains in use today. Meridas population is only about 60,000 people. The most populous city in Extremadura is Badajoz with 150000 people. Caceres is the next biggest with 96,000.
There are many things to do throughout the region. As mentioned Merida is a great place to see Roman ruins and sites. The National Museum of Roman Art in Merida is excellent. Caceres has a well preserved old town as does Trujillo. The Archaeological Museum of Badajoz is worth a visit. If you like the great outdoors, then Monfrague National Park is for you.
To help plan your visit to the region, check out our 7 day Itinerary for Extremadura for helpful tips and suggestions.
Towns of the Region
Read information and tips on these regional towns:
Badajoz – offers a mix of medieval architecture, lively plazas, modern shopping streets and strong cultural traditions
Caseres – a city full of history, culture and Extremaduran tradition
Guadalupe – picturesque medieval streets, fascinating museums, traditional Extremaduran cuisine and warm local hospitality
Mérida – home to one of the best-preserved collections of Roman monuments anywhere in Europe
Plasencia – offers historic architecture, nature, food, outdoor activities and authentic experience
San Martín de Trevejo – a pretty and well-preserved mountain village
Trujillo – famous for its impressive castle, magnificent Renaissance palaces and beautiful Plaza Mayor
Valverde del Fresno – a small town near the Portugese border
Getting to the region
Driving from Madrid to Merida takes around 3 hours 30 minutes.
You could also approach the region from the south with the drive from Seville to Badajoz taking about 2 hours 30 minutes.
The train trip from Madrid to Merida will take about 4 hours and 45 minutes. Buy Tickets