Carnival of Badajoz
A February carnival of International Tourist Interest, one of Spain's most popular, with group parades (comparsas) and over 12,000 participants.
PlizioGo
Traditional shepherd's breadcrumbs with pork, usually found in traditional taverns around Plaza Alta.
Taste the famous local acorn-fed ham in tapas bars around the San Juan area.
A Portuguese-influenced salt cod and potato dish, easily found in restaurants near the border or riverside.
Look for small delis in the historic center selling Extremedura paprika (pimentón), cheeses, and Iberian ham.
The main open-air shopping street offering a mix of popular brands and local boutiques.
A peaceful green oasis in the city center with tall palm trees, peacocks, and a duck pond.
The pathways along the river offer wide, tranquil spaces for walking or cycling away from the traffic.
Water temperature…
Badajoz, the largest city in the autonomous community of Extremadura, is strategically located directly on the border with Portugal along the banks of the Guadiana River. This border location historically made the city one of the most heavily fortified settlements on the Iberian Peninsula, as evidenced by the impressive 12th-century Moorish Alcazaba, considered the largest in Spain by area. From the massive fortress walls and the distinctive Espantaperros Tower, one can enjoy sweeping views over the city and the river. Beyond its military past, Badajoz is today a lively university city, whose carnival is celebrated as one of the most colorful and traditional in all of Spain. The historic old town, featuring the striking Plaza Alta and the fortress-like San Juan Bautista Cathedral, invites extensive exploration.
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 27 | 27 | 23 | 17 | 11 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 57 | 53 | 66 | 56 | 38 | 13 | 4 | 5 | 28 | 88 | 76 | 59 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Your day in Badajoz begins at the vibrant Plaza Alta, the heart of the old town. From there, climb the mighty walls of the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress offering breathtaking views over the city. At midday, immerse yourself in the sacred art of the Cathedral and then admire regional masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts. The afternoon takes you to iconic landmarks like the Giralda and Puerta de Palmas, before your walk concludes with a relaxing finish at the historic Puente de Palmas over the Guadiana River.
Start your day under the protective arcades of Plaza Alta, where the red and white facades shine even under grey skies. In the Alcazaba, the wet stone paths require caution but offer dramatic views of the Guadiana River. At midday, seek refuge in the Cathedral, whose fortress-like exterior promises protection from the rain. The Museum of Fine Arts is the perfect afternoon spot to stay dry and enjoy local art. The late afternoon takes you briefly to the Giralda and Puerta de Palmas. End by crossing the Puente de Palmas, where the wind whips the rain, but the illuminated city radiates a mystical atmosphere.
Enjoy the mild winter sun in Plaza Alta while admiring the Moorish details. The Alcazaba offers a refreshing hike along the fortress walls in the cool air, with clear distant views. At midday, the sun warms the alleys around the Cathedral. The Museum of Fine Arts provides a pleasantly tempered environment in the afternoon to explore the impressive collection. As dusk falls early, you reach Puerta de Palmas just in time for sunset. The finale on Puente de Palmas offers a spectacular view of the illuminated city under the clear winter sky.
Get on your bike in Badajoz. Your tour starts at Plaza Alta, from where you can quickly reach the impressive Alcazaba. After exploring the fortress, cycle across the historic Puente de Palmas and enjoy the view. At noon, the MEIAC awaits you with modern art. The afternoon takes you back to the heart of the city to the Cathedral and the elegant Giralda, where your bike tour through the history and culture of Badajoz ends.
Cycling in the rain requires attention to the slippery cobblestones of Plaza Alta. The climb to the Alcazaba can be slick but offers a refreshing perspective. At midday, cross the Puente de Palmas, where the wind can blow strongly. The MEIAC Museum offers a welcome long break in the dry. In the afternoon, head to the Cathedral and the Giralda. Watch out for traffic in the narrow streets as visibility can be limited in the rain.
A winter bike tour through Badajoz is pleasant thanks to the mild climate. Start fresh at Plaza Alta and enjoy the clear air in the Alcazaba. At midday, riding across Puente de Palmas offers a wide view over the river. The MEIAC Museum is the ideal place to warm up in the afternoon. Finish the tour at the Cathedral and the Giralda as the city lights come on. Remember the early darkness and check your bike lights.
By car, you explore Badajoz in comfortable stages. Park first near the Alcazaba and stroll through the fortress and to the nearby Plaza Alta. This cluster captures the historical soul of the city. Then, drive to the MEIAC, a modern counterpoint where you can immerse yourself in contemporary art. For the afternoon, park in the city center to visit the impressive Cathedral and experience the city's hustle and bustle before ending your day.
By car, you can reach Badajoz's sights comfortably even in the rain. Park directly at the Alcazaba and enjoy the view from the car before exploring the fortress. At midday, Plaza Alta offers protection under its arcades. The MEIAC Museum is the perfect destination for a wet afternoon, as the parking lot is very close by. Finally, visit the Cathedral in the city center. The short distances from the parking garage to the church portal will keep you dry.
Exploring Badajoz in winter by car offers maximum flexibility. Start at the Alcazaba and enjoy the clear panoramic view before moving on to Plaza Alta. At midday, the sunny alleys of the old town invite you to linger. The MEIAC Museum provides a pleasant change in the warmth in the afternoon. The day ends at the Cathedral in the center. Thanks to the car, you are prepared for the cool evening and can comfortably traverse the illuminated city.
