One Spanish city with golden-hued buildings and history dating back centuries, is known for its rich culture and timeless beauty.

Locals often refer to it as Spain’s “most beautiful city”, though it doesn’t always make the top of the usual travel bucket lists, often saturated with coastal hotspots like Marbella and Ibiza.

Yet, those who venture here are rewarded with a glimpse of Spain’s past, where ancient universities, grand cathedrals, and battlefields have all played pivotal roles that can be explored and studied.

Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right and “one of the most important historic sites in Spain, Salamanca is regarded by many Spaniards as their nation’s most beautiful city”, according to Joanne Lynn, Head of European Product at Riviera Travel.

Founded by the Romans and shaped by centuries of conflict, the city has seen it all, from Hannibal’s conquests to Napoleon’s army.

Its stunning architecture reflects this turbulent past, with remarkable buildings like the University of Salamanca, the oldest in Spain, and the majestic cathedrals that dominate the skyline.

Beyond the city’s borders, history unfolds further at the Battlefields of Salamanca, where the Earl of Wellington made his mark in the early 19th century, breaking French dominance on the Iberian Peninsula.

This mix of intellectual, military, and architectural significance is what makes Salamanca so special, and why it remains one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.

“Outside of the usual destinations, Spain has some incredible cities on offer for travellers,” adds Lynn. “Salamanca should be on every traveler’s bucket list for 2025.”

And it’s not only Spanish locals who appreciate this marvellous city, as foreign tourist who have been left in awe took to Tripadvisor to share their personal recommendations and reviews.

Thijsmartin Breda said: “I keep coming back because it’s a very variable city. You can visit the cathedral and the university wall, where you have to look for the frog. Story goes that if you find it, you will finish all your exams and find your true love in one year.

“But finding it isn’t easy. Just try to avoid all the giftshops, because they will give you the answer where to find it.”

Vacation19745 added: “Salamanca is an amazing place. There is so much history and culture that you don’t know where to go next.”

Themudgeerambler commented: “The city has a bike track which feeds you into the main area. its a great feeling riding along looking up at the Cathedral as it looms before you. You need at least two days here to take in all the superb old architecture.”