Ávila, Spain, is an impressive city known for its complete and well-preserved medieval walls. Sitting at an altitude of 1,130 meters (3700 ft) above sea level, it is the highest provincial capital in Spain. Ávila’s history goes back to pre-Roman times. It’s often called the “City of Saints and Stones” due to its many Romanesque and Gothic churches and the mystics Saint Teresa and John of the Cross. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Ávila based on our many visits to the city, you’ve come to the right place.
The history of Ávila is visible in its remarkable monuments, including the mighty city walls that date back to the 11th century. The Cathedral of Ávila, which also serves as a fortress, is a testament to its historical significance. A visit to Ávila transports visitors back to medieval times. This historical charm and its status as one of the top day trips from Madrid has encouraged a modest but growing tourist industry. The town offers options ranging from elegant boutique hotels housed in old buildings to low-cost accommodations like pensions and B&Bs.
Ávila’s other attractions include the Convent of Saint Teresa, built upon her birthplace; the Basilica of San Vicente, showcasing Romanesque architecture; the Monastery of Santo Tomás with ties to Isabella I of Castile; and Plaza Mayor. Nowadays, Ávila is a tranquil and inviting town. Walking through Ávila often feels like a storybook filled with tales of knights and legends.
As you plan your journey through Spain, keep reading this post to learn more about the best areas to stay in Ávila, Spain.
Accommodation Options in Ávila
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Ávila?
The best area to stay in Ávila is the Old Town because it is full of history and charm. Its ancient walls and cobblestone streets take you back. Staying here means you are close to important landmarks, like the Ávila Cathedral and the Basilica of San Vicente. The Old Town has many traditional shops and restaurants where you can try the local food.
Find available accommodation in Ávila’s Old Town.
Best Hotels in Ávila’s Old Town
- Best five-star hotel: La Casa del Presidente
- Best four-star hotel: Sofraga Palacio, World Hotels Crafted
- Best three-star hotel: Hotel Las Moradas
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Las Murallas
Where to Stay in Ávila for Sightseeing
- The Old Town in Ávila is the best area to stay because it is rich with history and charm. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into medieval Spain with its well-preserved walls and ancient streets.
- North of Old Town, the Prado Sancho neighborhood offers a peaceful and picturesque environment. It is close to the stunning city walls and within walking distance of many historical sites.
- The area around the Lienzo Norte Conference and Exhibition Centre is a prime location close to the old city. Plus, it’s right next to the bus station, making travel in and out of the city convenient.
- Staying around Ávila Train Station is also a smart choice for travelers as it gives easy access to other parts of the city and the train for exploring nearby places.
The Best Areas to Stay in Ávila, Spain: District by District
1. Old Town: Best Location for a Cultural Visit to Ávila
Surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls, the Old Town is an excellent place to stay because it is full of history and charm.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Ávila:
- Rich historical heritage
- Stunning medieval architecture
- Well-preserved city walls
- Beautiful cobblestone streets
- Charming atmosphere
- Traditional Spanish restaurants
- Proximity to major attractions
- Picturesque views
- Vibrant local markets
- Peaceful and quiet ambiance
Old Town Ávila is renowned for its well-preserved medieval city walls that date back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, the walls serve as an insurmountable stone barrier protecting an ensemble of churches, palaces, and narrow streets.
The Walls of Ávila are among the most complete fortifications in Spain, with their 88 watchtowers and nine gates, including the prominent Puerta del Alcázar. Within these imposing walls is the Cathedral of Ávila, part Romanesque, part Gothic in design, which began its construction in the 11th century and showcases an integrated fortress-like apse.
Meanwhile, the Convento de Santa Teresa de Jesús honors Saint Teresa of Jesus, born in Ávila in 1515. This convent stands at the site of her assumed birthplace and provides historical insight into her life and times.
Beyond historical architecture, Ávila offers several museums, such as the Avila Provincial Museum, held within Renaissance mansions that display fine arts and archeological collections.
Access around Old Town Ávila is primarily limited to foot traffic due to its compact size and preservation efforts; however, you can get to and from other parts of Ávila by bus lines with stops at or near the Puente Adaja leading directly into Old Town. Train services are accessible via Ávila’s train station, which lies a modest distance from Old Town, offering connectivity to Madrid and other destinations across Spain.
Accommodation options in the Old Town range from quaint guesthouses within former palatial homes to modern lodgings offering views.
Best Hotels in Old Town Ávila, Spain
La Casa del Presidente
Offering free wifi throughout the property, a sun terrace with a swimming pool, restaurant, and garden, La Casa del Presidente is located in Ávila. This 5-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service.
Sofraga Palacio, World Hotels Crafted
Located in Ávila and with Convent of Saint Teresa reachable within a 6-minute walk, Sofraga Palacio, World Hotels Crafted provides express check-in and check-out, allergy-free rooms, and a restaurant.
Hotel Las Moradas
Situated in the heart of Ávila, the hotel lies in the medieval center, with its enchanting narrow streets, cathedral, and the Plaza de Santa Teresa.
Hotel Las Murallas
Hotel Las Murallas is located between the picturesque St Vincent’s Basilica and the old city walls in Avila’s old town. Some rooms offer stunning views of the basilica, some of the city walls, and some have terraces.
2. Ávila Train Station: Best-Connected Area
Staying near Ávila Station is a good choice for those arriving or departing from by train from Madrid.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Ávila:
- Close to the historic city center
- Picturesque town views
- Abundance of local restaurants
- Easy transportation options
The Ávila Train Station, formally known as Estación de Adif de Ávila, serves as a key point of connection within the historical town of Ávila. Approximately 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) northeast of the well-preserved medieval town walls, this station provides rail services for exploring the region’s heritage.
This train station provides easy access to various parts of Castilla y León, as well as Madrid Chamartín.
Ávila’s walled city, a World Heritage Site, lies just 20 minutes away on foot from the station.
Hotels near the train station are usually more budget-friendly than those in more central locations. Accommodations range from simple guest houses to modern hotels primarily serving train travelers or those seeking affordable stays.
Best Hotels near Ávila Train Station
Hotel Exe Reina Isabel
The hotel is located in the center of Avila, steps away from the train station and 20 minutes from the walled historical quarter with all its attractions.
Hotel Don Carmelo
The Don Carmelo Hotel is located just in front of San Antonio Park and very close to the historic center of Ávila. Rooms include free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV.
3. Los Cuatro Postes & Lienzo Norte Conference Center: Best Views of Ávila
Staying near Los Cuatro Postes and Lienzo Norte Conference Center in Ávila is a top choice as it combines historical ambience and modern convenience.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Ávila:
- Proximity to historical landmarks
- Panoramic views of Ávila’s medieval walls
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Los Cuatro Postes viewpoint
- Lienzo Norte Conference Center
- Ideal for business travelers
- Parks and green spaces
Located on the periphery of Ávila’s historical city center, the area around Los Cuatro Postes and Lienzo Norte Conference Center lies northwest of the cathedral, a short walk from the famous Medieval Wall that encircles the old town.
The area is known for combining breathtaking views with contemporary facilities.
The monument of Los Cuatro Postes dates back to the 16th century and comprises a cross atop four stone pillars. Legend holds that Saint Teresa of Ávila and her brother were apprehended at this very site during their attempted escape towards southern Spain. Today, it offers one of the best views over Ávila, with unobstructed vistas of the Medieval Walls and beyond.
Adjacent to this historical marker is the Lienzo Norte Exhibition and Congress Centre, an architecturally modern structure in contrast with the city’s ancient backdrop. Completed in 2009, this facility was designed by Francisco José Mangado Beloqui and won the 2011 International Architecture Award. The center hosts many conferences and cultural events throughout the year.
Transportation options in this area include bus routes between Los Cuatro Postes and central Ávila. The accommodation in this neighborhood ranges from modern hotels to historic properties.
Best Hotels near Lienzo Norte Conference Center, Ávila
Parador de Ávila
Located in the historic quarter of the charming town, this 16th-century Palace has been beautifully renovated and stands within pretty gardens – enjoy meals in the fabulous restaurant.
Hostal Mirador de Avila
Located a few steps away from the Four Columns Monument, Hostal Mirador de Avila offers views of Ávila’s ancient city walls. There is free Wi-Fi, and all air-conditioned rooms have a flat-screen TV.
Where to Stay in Ávila: A Personal Take
Traveling to Ávila has always been a rewarding experience for us. Living in Madrid, the charming city of Ávila is only a short journey away, allowing us to visit several times. Each trip to this ancient city, surrounded by its imposing medieval walls, feels like stepping back in time.
On our last visit, we decided to stay at Hotel Las Moradas, conveniently situated in the heart of Ávila. The hotel provided a comfortable and pleasant stay without any pretense. The rooms were clean and well-furnished.
For anyone planning to visit Ávila, we highly recommend staying near the city center. This location allows easy access to all the main attractions, including the stunning Cathedral of Ávila and the Basilica of San Vicente. Walking along the top of the city walls offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It’s also worth trying some local delicacies such as ‘Yemas de Santa Teresa’ and Chuletón de Ávila at a nearby restaurant.
Where to Stay in Ávila: Useful Information for Your Visit
Ávila, a charming city in Spain, is a great place to visit any time of year.
Getting there is straightforward, especially from Madrid. You can take a train or a bus from Madrid’s stations; the train from Madrid’s Chamartin station can take you to Ávila in about an hour and a half.
Once you’re there, you’ll find that Ávila is quite walkable, and because of its size, it’s easy to explore without needing public transport. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets are beautiful but tough on the feet.
Ávila offers some delicious local food that you should not miss out on. Try the ‘chuletón de Ávila,’ a succulent beef steak, and the ‘yemas de Santa Teresa,’ a sweet treat made from egg yolks.
The climate in Ávila can be extreme, with hot summers and very cold winters due to its high altitude. The best time to visit would be during spring or fall when the temperatures are more moderate – think highs around 20°C in May and September. Personally, I love visiting in late spring when it’s not too hot during the day and still cool enough for comfortable evenings.
While in Ávila, take time to walk on top of the city walls, preferably near sunset. It gives you spectacular views and photo opportunities of the city and beyond.
For those who want to be in the heart of the city, consider staying inside the city walls of Ávila. This area is known for its beautiful medieval buildings and cobbled streets that transport you back in time. Hotels here can be a bit pricier, but it’s a dream come true for history lovers.
If traveling on a budget, look for accommodations outside city walls. You’ll find more affordable options like guesthouses and hostels. Plus, it’s just a short walk or bus ride back into the historic center.
Remember, Ávila gets really cold in winter, so make sure your place has good heating. And in summer, it might feel cooler than other cities in Spain, but it’s still good to have a fan or air conditioner.
