Things To Do
in Trujillo

Trujillo is a hilltop medieval town in Extremadura dominated by an imposing castle and whitewashed houses. Its Plaza Mayor, with arcaded porticoes, is the social heart of the town and leads you through narrow, cobbled lanes to ancient churches and viewpoints. The town’s history blends Moorish and Christian influences, evident in its fortifications, palaces, and churches.

Wandering its streets offers a rustic glimpse into Extremaduran life, paired with hearty regional cuisine and expansive views of the surrounding plains.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Orientation
morning
:

Arrive in Trujillo and check into a charming boutique hotel near the Plaza Mayor. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and feel the medieval atmosphere as you pass centuries-old buildings. Pause at a local café to savor a rich café con leche and freshly baked pastry.

afternoon
:

After settling in, head to the tourist information center to pick up maps and insider tips. Wander through the Plaza Mayor admiring the grand palaces and the imposing statue of Francisco Pizarro. Stop at a shaded terraza for a light lunch and watch the world go by.

evening
:

As dusk falls, climb the steps to the viewpoint near the castle to catch the sunset over terracotta rooftops. Return to the heart of town for an al fresco dinner featuring regional tapas and local Extremaduran wines. End the evening with a leisurely stroll under lantern-lit archways.

day 2
Historic Center Exploration
morning
:

Join a guided walking tour to uncover Trujillo’s Roman, Moorish, and medieval layers. Pause in front of the Cathedral of Santa María and learn about its Gothic façade and sacristy treasures. Enjoy an aromatic coffee in Plaza Mayor as your guide shares stories of conquistadors and local legends.

afternoon
:

Venture into the Barrio de Salamanquejos to admire Renaissance palaces built by returning conquistadors. Visit Casa de los Escobedo and imagine life in the 16th century. Satisfy your appetite with a hearty bocadillo stuffed with local ham.

evening
:

Explore hidden courtyards and secret alleyways as the sun sets. Stop at a boutique wine bar to sample robust Ribera del Guadiana reds. Savor cheese boards paired with dried Iberian ham while listening to soft guitar melodies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or pastry$2-4
🧀Cheese or snack$3-7
🚗Short taxi ride$7-12
🏨1-night mid-range hotel$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Historic charm and authentic Extremaduran cuisine
  • Compact, walkable center with stunning views
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Some attractions can be crowded during peak season
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Dónde está el Mercado de Abastos?" - Where is the market?
  • "Sin carne" - Without meat
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Trujillo

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Mayor

Historic square framed by arcades and pastel stone buildings, perfect for daytime photos and golden-hour shots.

Castillo de Trujillo

Imposing hilltop fortress offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding plains; dramatic sunset photography opportunities.

Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor

A striking church with Renaissance and Gothic elements; capture its façade from the surrounding streets.

Old town walls and viewpoints

Ancient walls and winding lanes provide panoramic vistas over the rooftops and countryside.

Culinary Guide

Food in Trujillo

Extremadura’s cuisine is rustic and hearty, focused on pork, chickpeas, cheeses, and simple, robust flavors. Look for pisto, migas, and regional cheeses as you explore the town’s taverns and market stalls.

Trujillo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cocido Extremeño

A hearty chickpea and meat stew featuring pork and vegetables; best found in traditional taverns in the old town.

Must-Try!

Migas Extremeñas

Fried breadcrumbs typically served with chorizo or pork; a rustic staple in rural taverns and seasonal eateries.

Torta del Casar

A creamy sheep’s milk cheese often served with bread and a drizzle of olive oil; look for it in cheese shops and tapas bars.

Jamón Ibérico y Embutidos

Cured Iberian ham and regional sausages, widely available in markets and tapas bars; great with a slice of bread and olives.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Abastos de Trujillo

Traditional market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats; a good place to sample local bites and pick up picnic supplies.

Street Food and Tapas around Plaza Mayor

Casual stalls and tavern windows offering quick bites like croquettes, tortillas, and seasonal tapas near the main square.

Climate Guide

Weather

Trujillo experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, ideal for walking and outdoor sightseeing. Expect wide seasonal temperature swings between day and night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and conversation

Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Hola'; maintain calm, friendly conversation and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.

Religious and cultural sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches; observe local decorum and be mindful of siesta hours affecting shop openings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safety is good for visitors. Watch for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, especially around the plaza. Use common travel precautions, carry water in hot weather, and dial 112 for emergencies.

Tipping in Trujillo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up or leaving 5-10% at nicer establishments is common.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Very hot and dry; carry water, wear sun protection, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Winter

Cool days and chilly nights; rainfall is possible; bring layers and a warm jacket.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking tours and street photography.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; harvest season brings markets and seasonal ingredients to taste.

Nightlife Guide

Trujillo at Night

Nightlife in Trujillo centers on tapas bars and small cafes around the Plaza Mayor and narrow streets. Evenings are relaxed, with locals enjoying drinks, conversations, and occasional live music; bigger concerts or clubs are more common in nearby cities rather than within the town itself.

Hiking in Trujillo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montánchez Mountain Trails

Elevated viewpoints and forest trails offering panoramic vistas of the plains.

Monfragüe National Park trails (short drive)

Forested routes with canyon scenery and prime birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Trujillo by plane.

Seville Airport (SVQ)

Major hub in southern Spain with broad national and international connections; about a few hours by road from Trujillo.

Badajoz Airport (BJZ)

Regional airport with Madrid and select international links; closer to Trujillo than Seville.

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez (MAD)

Large international hub; frequent connections to Europe and beyond; longer drive from Trujillo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Trujillo’s historic center is compact and walkable, with steep lanes and gentle climbs. Most major sights cluster around the Plaza Mayor, making foot travel convenient, though comfortable shoes are a must.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A steady, predominantly aging population with a strong regional identity and traditions.

Students and visitors

A growing presence of students and travelers during the tourist season, adding a cosmopolitan vibe to the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and matches are a common weekend activity.

Transportation

Traffic

In the historic center, traffic is limited and many streets are pedestrianized or restricted. Use public transport or walk; regional bus services connect Trujillo to Cáceres and other towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Trujillo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Extremaduran cooking is meat-centric; look for pisto (vegetable stew), grilled vegetables, salads, and cheese. Always ask for 'sin carne' and check broth ingredients if a soup or stew is involved.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Trujillo is part of Spain’s public system. Local clinics (centro de salud) serve day-to-day needs, while major hospital services are concentrated in Cáceres. Carry your EHIC if applicable and dial 112 for emergencies.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide