Trujillo: Discover the Historic Heart of Extremadura
Trujillo is one of Spain’s finest medieval towns and one of the highlights of Extremadura. Perched on a granite hill between Cáceres and Mérida, the town is famous for its impressive castle, magnificent Renaissance palaces and beautiful Plaza Mayor. Trujillo also played an important role during the Age of Discovery as the birthplace of conquistadors such as Francisco Pizarro. Today, visitors can enjoy centuries of history, excellent local food, charming streets and spectacular countryside. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot, making Trujillo an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend or as part of a wider tour of Extremadura.
What to see and do
The first stop should be the magnificent Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. Elegant arcaded buildings surround the square, while cafés and restaurants create a lively atmosphere throughout the day. At its centre stands the famous bronze equestrian statue of Francisco Pizarro, one of Trujillo’s most recognisable landmarks. The square is also the perfect place to begin a walking tour of the town.
Climb to the impressive Trujillo Castle, which dominates the skyline from its hilltop position. Originally built during the Moorish period on the site of an earlier fortress, the castle offers breathtaking views across the plains of Extremadura. Visitors can walk along the ancient walls and towers while learning about the town’s strategic importance through the centuries. Buy Tickets
From the castle, wander through the beautifully preserved medieval quarter. Narrow cobbled streets lead past fortified houses, churches and elegant Renaissance mansions that once belonged to wealthy noble families and returning conquistadors. Every corner reveals another impressive historic building, making Trujillo one of Spain’s finest open-air museums.
Visit the magnificent Church of Santa María la Mayor, located beside the castle. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the church combines Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Inside, visitors will find beautiful chapels, carved altarpieces and religious artwork, while the bell tower rewards those who climb it with panoramic views across the town. Buy Tickets
History lovers should also visit the Pizarro House Museum, the former family home of Francisco Pizarro. Exhibits explain the life of the conquistador and the exploration of South America, placing Trujillo firmly within Spain’s wider historical story.
The elegant Palace of the Dukes of San Carlos is another highlight. Its Renaissance façade overlooks Plaza Mayor and reflects the wealth that flowed into Trujillo during Spain’s Golden Age. Nearby, visitors can admire many other impressive palaces featuring decorative coats of arms and ornate balconies.
If you enjoy museums, the Museum of Coria Gate provides an interesting introduction to the town’s archaeological and historical heritage. Smaller than many museums, it nevertheless offers valuable insight into Trujillo’s Roman, Moorish and Christian past.
Nature lovers should consider exploring the surrounding countryside. Trujillo lies close to Monfragüe National Park, one of Europe’s finest birdwatching destinations. The park is home to griffon vultures, black storks, Egyptian vultures and the rare Spanish imperial eagle. Guided wildlife tours are available throughout the year. Buy Tickets
Before leaving, enjoy a leisurely meal in Plaza Mayor. Trujillo is renowned for its outstanding gastronomy, including Iberian ham, local cheeses, lamb dishes, migas and wines produced throughout Extremadura. Many restaurants use traditional recipes that have remained unchanged for generations.
Local festivals and traditions
Trujillo hosts several lively festivals throughout the year. The best known is the National Cheese Fair, held every spring in Plaza Mayor. Producers from across Spain gather to showcase hundreds of artisan cheeses, with Extremadura’s famous Torta del Casar among the highlights. Visitors can enjoy tastings, demonstrations and live entertainment during this popular event.
Holy Week is another important celebration. Religious brotherhoods carry beautifully decorated floats through the historic streets while traditional music creates a moving atmosphere. The medieval surroundings make these processions especially memorable.
During late summer, Trujillo celebrates its annual town festival with concerts, cultural performances, sporting events and fireworks. Local families and visitors gather in the streets, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Throughout the year, Trujillo also celebrates its rich historical heritage with medieval markets and historical re-enactments. Performers dressed in period costume recreate scenes from the town’s past, bringing history to life for visitors of all ages.
Where to stay
The Historic Centre is the best place to stay if you want to experience Trujillo’s unique atmosphere. Hotels around Plaza Mayor place you within a few minutes’ walk of the castle, churches and museums while offering easy access to restaurants and cafés. Staying inside the old town also allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful streets after day-trippers have left.
If you prefer a quieter stay, accommodation on the lower slopes of the hill provides beautiful countryside views and convenient parking while remaining within walking distance of the historic centre. Boutique hotels inside restored palaces offer a luxurious experience, while family-run guesthouses provide excellent value and friendly local hospitality. Visitors travelling by car will also find several modern hotels on the outskirts of town with easy access to the surrounding attractions of Extremadura. Whatever your budget, Trujillo offers comfortable accommodation that perfectly complements its historic character. Book Accommodation
How to get to Trujillo
Trujillo is conveniently located on the A-5 motorway between Madrid and the Portuguese border, making it one of the easiest historic towns in Extremadura to reach by road. Driving is the most flexible option, especially if you plan to visit nearby attractions such as Cáceres, Mérida or Monfragüe National Park. Hire a Car If you are already in Spain, you can click here to get directions from your current location.
The nearest major airport is Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, approximately two and a half hours away by car. Another convenient option is Seville Airport, particularly for visitors combining Trujillo with southern Spain.
Although Trujillo does not have its own railway station, visitors can travel by train to nearby Cáceres or Mérida before continuing by bus or car. Check connections
Regular long-distance buses connect Trujillo with Madrid, Cáceres, Mérida and several other cities across Extremadura. Bus services are comfortable, affordable and provide an excellent alternative for travellers without a car. Buy Tickets
Whether you arrive by road, rail or bus, Trujillo rewards every visitor with outstanding history, remarkable architecture, welcoming hospitality and unforgettable views across the beautiful landscapes of Extremadura. It is one of Spain’s most authentic historic towns and deserves a place on every traveller’s itinerary.