1. I was just planning to do day trips to the Castilian cities from Madrid. Is this enough time to see all the sights?

It is possible to see the cities of Salamanca, Segovia, Avila and Toledo in day trips, although to be able to fully appreciate the cities it is best to stay overnight. There is plenty to see and do, and you don’t want your visit to be a blur of castles and cathedrals. Salamanca, with it’s distance from Madrid is really too far away to see all the sights in a day including the travel.

2. What is the best way to travel around the Castile Region?

The best way to travel around the Castile Region depends on how much time you have, your budget and your interests. Hiring a car provides you with the most flexibility of seeing the sights in the country side. Other options involve taking one of the regular bus services, or taking tours with a tour provider. The train service from Madrid is also another option.

3. I have heard that the food is great in the Castile Region but my friend is a vegetarian. Is this going to be a problem?

The Castillian cuisine is famous for it’s superb roasted meats, cured meats and sausages. Although your friend won’t partake in these dishes it is possible to have vegetarian foods such as olives, cheese, salads, and soups. Just ask the waiter for assistance.

4. What is the best time of the year to visit Salamanca?

Due to the inland location of the Castile region, it does experience extremes in temperatures. The tourist season, and this is the peak season in terms of pricing, is between mid March to the end of October. The low season falls from November to mid March. Spring, has to be the best time to visit the region in terms of temperature, but if your interest is the festivals then come when the one that interests you the most is on. Summers are very mild in Salamanca, and the city is fortunate not to experience the heat of inland Spain. Winters can be cold and you will need a warm coat.

5. When is the bull fighting season?

Bull fighting season is from March to October, and is popular throughout all of Spain.

6. I want to study Spanish. Is this a good place to do it?

Yes. This is definitely an excellent place to study a pure form of Castilian Spanish, and Salamanca is well set up for short term and longer term students. Beside language, there are other courses available in relation to food and wine that may also be of interest to you.

7. Can I practice speaking Spanish in the streets?

Yes, most definitely. The Castilians will be very pleased if you try and speak Spanish and you will learn more about the culture, country, and it’s people if you do so.

8. I need to buy some souvenirs. What can you recommend?

The old quarters of Salamanca and the other Castilian cities have lots of interesting shops specializing on regional wares and crafts that make great gifts. Some of the specialities of Castalia are the ironwork, pottery, ceramics and embroidery. The cured hams, meats and red wines also make great gifts for your friends or yourself, that you can enjoy on returning back home.

9.Do I need a visa to visit Salamanca?

You will need a visa if you are a citizen of the European Union, Australia, or the United States. Carry it with you at all times. Ask your travel agency and your embassy for information on visa requirements.

10.How do I find a good hotel?

You can find plenty of hotels in Salamanca, from budget accommodations to luxury spas. You can also stay in student accommodations during the summer, which are very affordable.

11.Should I join a tour or travel on my own?

It’s easy to go around Salamanca so you don’t necessarily have to go with a tour. But there are some advantages to taking a tour: convenience (they’ll take care of everything) and time (you don’t have to research or compare items, since they present packages to you). It really depends on your needs.