How to get to Caceres

Cáceres is a magnificent historical city in the Extremadura region of western Spain, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique medieval architecture. If you have decided to travel to Cáceres, it is useful to know the various logistical options, including combinations of flights to neighboring hub airports followed by a journey by train, bus, or rental car. We have gathered current information on how to get to Cáceres so that your journey to this open-air museum is easy and hassle-free.

Since the city of Cáceres itself does not have its own civil airport, travelers will need to choose one of the neighboring aviation hubs. The closest arrival point is Badajoz Airport (BJZ), located approximately 90 kilometers away; however, it primarily serves domestic flights and has a limited route network.

For international travelers, the most convenient options are major hubs receiving flights from around the world. The optimal choice would be a flight to the capital of Spain — Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), or to Lisbon Airport (LIS) in neighboring Portugal. Both cities serve as excellent starting points, as you can comfortably reach Cáceres from there by train, bus, or rental car.

Traveling by rail is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to reach your destination. The city of Cáceres has its own railway station, making it easily accessible for tourists who prefer ground transport and wish to avoid transfers.

The most popular and in-demand route connects the city with the capital of Spain. Direct trains from Madrid run regularly, and the journey time is usually about 3–3.5 hours. This is a great opportunity to relax in a comfortable seat and enjoy the views of the Extremadura region.

There is also convenient railway connection with the south of the country, particularly with Seville. The station in Cáceres is located relatively close to the main attractions, so upon arrival, you can quickly reach the historical center by taxi or local bus.

Bus services in the Extremadura region are excellently organized, allowing you to reach Cáceres from neighboring historical centers comfortably and on a budget. One of the most popular routes is the trip from Mérida: buses cover the distance of 75 kilometers in just 50–60 minutes, running with frequent regularity. It is also convenient to travel from Badajoz, located 90 kilometers to the west; the travel time on this route is about one and a half hours.

Travelers heading from the north should consider a direct route from Salamanca. The journey will take approximately 2.5–3 hours, allowing you to enjoy scenic landscapes on the way to the medieval city. The bus station is located in the modern part of the city, from where you can quickly reach the historical center by taxi or local transport.

Traveling by car along the roads of Extremadura offers a sense of freedom and opens up views of picturesque olive groves. The shortest path to the "City of a Thousand Coats of Arms" lies from Mérida: via the A-66 expressway, you will comfortably cover 75 kilometers in just 50 minutes. The road from Badajoz, located near the Portuguese border, will take slightly over an hour (about 90 km), making this route ideal for a quick trip.

If you are heading from the north, for example from Salamanca, expect to spend about two hours behind the wheel to cover a distance of 215 kilometers along the "Silver Route". For those not planning to rent a car, intercity taxis are available, though the cost of a transfer from neighboring cities usually starts from 90–100 Euros. Having a car allows you not to depend on schedules and to conveniently reach the historical quarters where the main hotels are located.

Preparation is a crucial stage that determines the quality of your holiday. To ensure your trip to Cáceres is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations taking local specifics into account.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The main rule for Cáceres is comfortable footwear. The historical center is paved with ancient cobblestones, so it is best to leave heels at home in favor of sneakers or flat sandals. Summers in the Extremadura region can be very hot, so a head covering and sunscreen are essential, while in winter and spring, an umbrella and a light jacket are advisable.
2. Transport. The best way to explore the Old Town (Ciudad Monumental) is by walking, as many streets are pedestrian-only or too narrow for vehicles. If you need to reach distant new districts, use the city bus network or taxis, which are relatively affordable here.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash may be required in small souvenir stalls or cafés. It is recommended to always carry a small amount in low-denomination notes.
4. Health and Safety. Cáceres is a calm and safe city where you can walk in the evening without concern. Pharmacies (Farmacia) are easily recognized by a green cross; many operate on a duty schedule. The unified number for emergency services is 112.
5. Communication. The primary language is Spanish. In tourist areas, staff often speak English, but further into the city or at the market, knowing basic phrases ("Hola", "Gracias", "Por favor") will be received with great gratitude and help establish contact with locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Keep the siesta schedule in mind: many shops and institutions close for a break from 14:00 to 17:00. Dinner here is customarily late, usually after 21:00. Be aware that when meeting, locals may exchange two symbolic kisses on the cheek as a greeting.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to drive a rental car inside the fortress walls without prior parking confirmation from your hotel — this risks fines and involves difficult maneuvering. Also, avoid visiting open spaces at noon during the height of summer to prevent heatstroke.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to try the local pastries prepared by nuns in the city's enclosed convents. Often, these sweets are sold through special revolving windows ("torno"), which in itself is an interesting cultural experience.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organizational issues and fully focus on the beauty of medieval architecture and the hospitality for which Spain is famous. We wish you an unforgettable journey!