Badajoz is a city in the southwestern province of Extremadura. It sits on the border with Portugal and is a regular stop for those making the trip from Madrid to Lisbon. It is a city packed with history whose pathed streets are lined with columns and arched galleries. There is a stunning mix of Medieval, Moorish and modern architecture that make walking through the Old Town an intoxicating experience. The city is also known its relaxing natural spaces and great cuisine, making it a perfect place to visit during your travels in the region.
Our Recommendations on Which Areas to Stay
- If you are travelling as a family, look for somewhere close to Guadiana Park or Castelar Park. Both are very close to the Guadiana River, which is perfect for evening walks. You will also be very close to the historic center and all of the other great sights that Badajoz has to offer.
- For a luxury stay in Badajoz, stay somewhere between Plaza San Francisco and Plaza Santa Maria. This is where you will find many of the most beautiful streets in the historic center and you will also have many shops, restaurants, and interesting sights, right on your doorstep.
- Travelling on a budget? Not to worry, Badajoz has lots of affordable options and you will be able to visit many of the best sights in the city for free.
Our Recommendations on Accommodations in Badajoz are Shown in 5 Categories:
- Luxury interior: Casa da Catedral Jerónimo, El Pueblo de Leo
- Family sized: Casa da Catedral Jerónimo, El Pueblo de Leo, Casa da Catedral Ramona
- Room with a view: Casa da Catedral Ramona
- Low budget: El Pueblo de Leo, Central apartment with garage in the old town, Beautiful central and cozy apartment, NICE AND CENTRAL APARTMENT, Nice apartment recently renovated
- Hotels: Mercure Rio Badajoz, Ilunion Golf Badajoz, Hotel Badajoz Center, AC Hotel Badajoz by Marriott, Sercotel Gran Hotel Zurbarán, NH Gran Hotel Casino de Extremadura
Neighborhoods – What to Know, Before Visiting
The city of Badajoz is split in two by the Guadiana River that snakes through the middle and separates the older eastern part of the city from the more recent western part. Your visit will most likely center on the old Moorish quarter that is packed with amazing castles, parks, religious buildings, and plazas.
The Alcazaba de Badajoz is one of the most important walled Arab citadels in Europe due to its size. It is also the best preserved in all of Spain with several towers still intact. It was built by the Almohads in the 12th century, although some suggest it may date back to the city’s origins in the 9th century. Located on the banks of the Guadiana River and bordering Portugal, Badajoz was a strategic fortress for the Muslims for four centuries. In terms of architecture, the citadel is a walled oval enclosure, adapted to the shape of the hill on which it sits. It is free to visit and has some of the best views of the city.
Adjacent to the Alcazaba, is Plaza Alta. This mythical square, considered one of the ten most spectacular in all of Spain, is where markets were held in the Middle Ages. The square has been wonderfully preserved and you can almost imagine what it would have been like hundreds of years ago as you walk under its arches and gaze at the amazingly intricate designs that adorn its buildings. The square is actually the oldest part of the city and, today, it is divided in two by its architectural styles. On one side, there are Medieval buildings and the famous Peso Arch, while on the other side there is the Toril Arch, surrounded by Baroque and modern architecture.
Of the essential places to see, there is the old Town Hall of Badajoz and from there you can see the Torre de Espantaperros, which together make up one of the most typical postcard images of Badajoz. The Torre de Espantaperros or Torre de la Atalaya, is one of the symbols of the city of Badajoz and served as a model for the construction of the Torre del Oro in Seville. Inside the fortress is the Palace dating back to the 16th century which in more recent times has been converted into the Provincial Archaeological Museum of Badajoz.
A few minutes’ walk away and you will arrive at Badajoz’s Plaza de España which has been a central point in the city throughout its history. Here you will find the Cathedral of San Juan and the municipal palace. The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is an impressive religious building built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Its architectural style is predominantly Gothic and Romanesque, with three corridors and twelve interior chapels that are worth visiting.
Probably one of the most beautiful places to see in Badajoz is the Plaza la Soledad. The plaza is surrounded by some beautiful buildings, such as the Hermitage of the Virgen de la Soledad. In the mid-seventeenth century, the Duke of San Germán had the image of the Virgin made in Naples, and later this Virgin would become the patron saint of Badajoz.
From the plaza, walk down Calle Santa Lucia and you will arrive at one of the most iconic structures in the city, the Puerta de Palmas. This was the original main gate during the Medieval era and its two crenellated towers were once used as prisons. They look on to the bridge of the same name, the oldest in the city, which crosses the Guadiana River with thirty semi-circular arches. The Puente de Palmas, built in 1460, is a lovely pedestrian bridge and is a great way to travel across the river to explore the other side of Badajoz
Museums and Cultural Activities
Away from the amazing historical buildings and relaxing squares, Badajoz also has some great cultural activities to keep you entertained during your visit. One of the best museums in the city is the Museo de Bellas Artes de Badajoz (MUBA). Here you will find excellent exhibits of local prize-winning artists, as well as paintings from national greats such as Picasso and Dali. It is a very interesting museum for those who appreciate modern and contemporary painting and definitely worth a visit. There is free entrance and staff are known to be very friendly and helpful.
Mentioned above, the Archaeological Museum of Badajoz is a well-managed museum and archeological site. This is a wonderful place where you can view samples from prehistory to the Arab era. They have some fascinating authentic pieces carved in unique gold and other beautiful pieces such as Roman amulets or prehistoric figures carved in stone. There is also a very good pre-Roman collection. Staff are welcoming and once again entrance is free.
In February, Badajoz celebrates its famous Carnival, which is the third biggest in Spain (after Tenerife and Cádiz). Local people prepare for this all year round. The extraordinary Carnival procession is definitely worth experiencing, and dancing in the streets to music from huge sound systems continues into the small hours.
Great Outdoor Spaces for Families
Badajoz is great for families with lots of green spaces, tons of history and interesting museums. The Guadiana Park is possibly the most pleasant place to walk around Badajoz, and one of the most beautiful parks in the region. It offers stunning views over the river and the city during sunrise and sunset. Found on the banks of the river, there are also some terraces where you can sit down to relax and have a drink. The park is very well maintained, with a variety of sports courts and playgrounds.
Green spaces in the city give you the chance to play with your children, do exercise, take in the fresh air or simply get away from the hustle and bustle. When you visit Badajoz, it is highly recommended that you take a walk through Castelar Park. Located in the old olive grove of the Santo Domingo convent, this park is full of tropical palm trees, statues and great areas for families with young children. There is also a nice kiosk where you can enjoy a cold beverage, a small tapa, or a delicious ice cream.
The Galera Gardens are also worth a visit, with their Arabic style and the fact that they are watched over by the Espantaperros Tower and the defensive walls of the city. Take a nice relaxing afternoon stroll through here and see if you can find the impressive archaeological remains that lie within.
Regional Delicacies
When visiting any city, one of the key things you must do is try the local cuisine and in Badajoz you won’t be disappointed. Lovers of cured meats will enjoy the Patatera sausage and the acorn-fed Iberian ham. Other famous dishes include sopa de antruejo (a kind of casserole made with pork, chorizo, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic and vinegar), migas and molletes con menteca colorá.
The area surrounding Plaza de España is one of the best places to sample traditional Extremaduran cuisine. Within Plaza España and its surroundings there are several bars and restaurants where you can eat good ham (remember that this is the land of great hams). Or simply enjoy having an aperitif on one of its many terraces. Another area where you can sample a delicious tapa or have a drink is Paseo de San Francisco, which is a lively area next to the López de Ayala Theatre.
Away from the old town and on the other side of the Guadiana, two restaurants merit special mention. First, Restaurante Marchivirito is a spectacular classic restaurant in Badajoz where they cook grilled meat and fish to perfection. They are also known for their exquisite desserts and very attentive service. This, without a doubt, is one of the best restaurants in Badajoz.
Another place, which is excellent for lunch or dinner is Restaurante Lugaris. Their tasting menu for around €40 is amazing and you will be able to sample some of the best dishes from around the region. Their wine list is also fantastic. The place is well-decorated, and the service is 10 out of 10. You must always reserve a table as the restaurant enjoys very high demand, especially during the summer months.
Where to Stay on a Budget
Badajoz is a relatively inexpensive option compared to other cities in Spain. There are many affordable accommodation options and most historical sights and museums are free to visit. A great option for lunch and dinner is Bar Miguel. The owner here is extremely hospitable and you will find great traditional food at good prices. Don’t worry too much about staying far away from the center, in Badajoz there are well priced options everywhere. So make sure to pick the best possible place for your visit!
