Zamora, known as the “Romanesque city,” is a hidden gem in northwestern Spain near the Portuguese border. Famous for its stunning collection of Romanesque architecture, this city offers a walk-through history with every step. Located on the banks of the Duero River, Zamora is also celebrated for its medieval walls and beautiful churches. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Zamora based on my recent visit, you’ve come to the right place.
Accommodation Options in Zamora, Spain
The city’s rich history dates back to prehistoric times and was an important settlement during the Roman Empire and the medieval period. The main attractions of Zamora include the Castle of Zamora, which offers panoramic views over the city, and the Cathedral of Zamora, known for its unique Byzantine dome. While Zamora is considered one of Spain’s best-kept secrets, the town has a growing tourist industry with accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to charming budget properties, especially in its Old Town.
Apart from its famous churches, other attractions you should not miss are the Zamora Ethnographic Museum, which gives a deep insight into traditional Castilian culture; Plaza Mayor, the main square surrounded by historic buildings; Troncoso Viewpoint for outstanding views of the river; and Palacio de los Momos with its impressive Plateresque facade.
Zamora’s atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. The town’s pace is laid-back, making it perfect for immersing in its centuries-old surroundings. Despite being lesser known than other Spanish cities, Zamora is a welcome surprise and offers bustling local markets and vibrant festivals like Semana Santa.
Keep reading this guide to learn more about this fascinating city and discover the best areas to stay in Zamora, Spain.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Zamora, Spain?
The best area to stay in Zamora is the Old Town. Its maze of narrow streets and well-preserved medieval structures offers a genuine feel of the city’s heritage. Iconic landmarks such as the Zamora Cathedral and several Romanesque churches add to its charm. Numerous small shops, traditional cafes, and restaurants ensure a delightful stay, while the friendly atmosphere makes it a cozy base for exploring more of Zamora.
Find available accommodation in Zamora’s Old Town.
Best Hotels in Zamora Old Town
- Best 4-star hotel: NH Zamora Palacio del Duero
- Best 3-star hotel: San Gil Plaza Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Hosteria Real de Zamora
- Best serviced apartments: Apartamentos Plaza Mayor Zamora
Where to Stay in Zamora for Sightseeing
As mentioned above, the Old Town is the best location for tourists in Zamora. That said, the city center can be divided into different neighborhoods and areas that offer different vibes and sights. These are some of the best districts to stay in Zamora, Spain:
- The Plaza Mayor is a bustling area in Zamora with an array of restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s an excellent option for those looking to stay in a lively atmosphere with easy access to dining and shopping options. The square frequently hosts events and markets, making it a vibrant area to stay.
- Staying near the Cathedral of Zamora provides a quieter experience with the added benefit of historical and cultural significance. This area is ideal for those interested in exploring the city’s ancient architecture.
- Zamora Railway Station is practical for travelers who prioritize convenience. This location offers quick access to trains and buses.
- Barrio de Cabañales is a neighborhood known for its residential charm and local atmosphere. This area has narrow streets, local shops, and traditional houses. It’s typically quieter compared to bustling central zones.
Where to Stay in Zamora: Best Quarters
1. Plaza Mayor
The best area to stay in Zamora, Spain
Plaza Mayor is the focal point of Zamora, offering a central location that makes it easy to explore the rest of the city.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Zamora:
- Historic architecture
- Cobblestone streets
- Romanesque churches
- Art-Nouveau architecture
- Medieval atmosphere
- Proximity to the Duero River
- Scenic views
- Charming cafes
- Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is located in the center of the historic city of Zamora. This prominent square is the city’s social and cultural hub and provides a lovely historical background, reflecting different eras through its varied architectural styles.
Dating back to the medieval period, Plaza Mayor has been a focal point in Zamora for centuries. It has undergone several renovations and transformations. Notably, the 16th-century Town Hall stands out with its Renaissance facade, while the New Town Hall, constructed in the early 20th century, exemplifies more contemporary design elements.
Several key attractions are located around Plaza Mayor. The Church of San Juan de Puerta Nueva, with its Romanesque origins dating back to the 12th century, dominates one corner of the square. Its robust structure and detailed carvings attract those interested in historical architecture. Another significant edifice is the Church of Santiago del Burgo, known for its simple yet profound architectural style and history that stretches back to the same period.
The Plaza Mayor also hosts a lively scene for day and night exploration. Numerous bars and restaurants surround the square, offering traditional Castilian cuisine. As the evening progresses, the area transforms into a hub for nightlife where people gather to enjoy tapas and socialize.
Nearby lies Plaza Sagasta, a prime destination for admirers of Art Nouveau architecture. This square is an excellent example of the modernismo style that flourished in the city in the early 20th century. Adjacent to the plaza stands Teatro Principal, one of the oldest theaters in Zamora.
Plaza Mayor is well-connected by local bus routes with stops conveniently situated around the square. This ensures easy access to other parts of Zamora and neighboring regions.
Accommodation around Plaza Mayor varies from luxurious hotels to more modest options.
Best Hotels near Plaza Mayor, Zamora
NH Zamora Palacio del Duero
Situated next to the 12th-century Santa Maria de la Horta Church, NH Zamora Palacio del Duero is a 2-minute walk from Zamora’s Plaza Mayor. Rooms include free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and a minibar.
San Gil Plaza Hotel
Set in Zamora, San Gil Plaza Hotel has rooms with a mini-bar, free WiFi and air conditioning. Zamora Castle is 15 minutes’ walk away.
Hosteria Real de Zamora
Hosteria Real de Zamora is located in the center of Zamora, beside the Romanesque stone bridge, in a 16th-century Renaissance palace with its original Jewish bath.
Apartamentos Plaza Mayor Zamora
Apartamentos Plaza Mayor Zamora offers air-conditioned rooms in Zamora. Popular points of interest nearby include the Park of the Castillo, the Cathedral of Zamora, and the Baltasar Lobo Museum.
2. Cathedral & Castle of Zamora
The best area to stay in Zamora for history lovers
Staying near the Cathedral and Castle of Zamora allows you to experience the city’s medieval charm. This area is quiet and picturesque, perfect for those who appreciate historical architecture.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Zamora:
- Historic charm
- Stunning castle views
- Cafes with local flavors
- Cathedral of Zamora
- Enchanting narrow streets
- Cultural landmarks
Located on the Old Town’s western edge, the Cathedral area is a significant historical and architectural landmark within Zamora. This part of the city is quiet and offers an immersive experience.
Located on a hilltop overlooking the Duero River, the Cathedral of Zamora is primarily Romanesque in style, with its construction dating back to the 12th century. The cathedral’s unique Byzantine-style dome sets it apart from other Romanesque structures in Spain. Inside, you can find impressive altarpieces and chapels.
Adjacent to the cathedral lies Zamora Castle. Originally built in the 10th century as a defensive fortress, it has undergone several modifications throughout the ages. From its well-preserved battlements, the castle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. It also houses a museum.
This area is home to many remarkable structures, such as the Bishop’s Palace and several Romanesque churches, making it a focal point for medieval architecture. The streets are markedly quieter than other parts of Zamora, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
This portion of Old Town has a relatively subdued nightlife compared to the eastern edge and Plaza Mayor. However, it does offer some quiet bars and cafes where you can enjoy local food and beverages.
Transportation options in this area are limited. Few bus stops connect this historic area with other parts of Zamora. That said, walking is the main way to get around.
Best Hotels near the Cathedral and Castle of Zamora
Parador de Zamora
Located in the historic center of Zamora, this 15th-century castle has been turned into a unique hotel with a restaurant, outdoor pool, attractive gardens, and free Wi-Fi.
Ares Hotel
Featuring views of the Zamora City Walls, Ares Hotel offers accommodations in Zamora, steps away from the Easter Museum of Zamora. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Hosteria Real de Zamora
Hosteria Real de Zamora is located in the center of Zamora, beside the Romanesque stone bridge, in a 16th-century Renaissance palace with its original Jewish bath.
3. Railway Station Area
The best area to stay in Zamora for train and bus travelers
The area around the Zamora Railway Station is ideal for travelers looking for convenience. It’s a great option if you plan to use Zamora as a base for day trips to nearby cities via train or bus.
Zamora Railway Station is a vital transportation hub in Castilla y León.
The incredibly beautiful train station itself, with its architectural design, appears older but was actually opened in the 20th century. It blends traditional and modern aesthetics, making it a recognizable structure within the cityscape. The station connects Zamora to main destinations such as Madrid and Valladolid. High-speed AVE trains offer rapid travel to these cities, with travel times to Madrid at approximately one hour and to Valladolid in about 30 minutes.
The nearby bus station provides even more connectivity options. Major bus companies operate routes that include destinations like Madrid, Valladolid, Barcelona, and Porto. Travel time to Madrid by bus is around three hours; reaching Valladolid takes approximately 1.5 hours. Buses to Barcelona usually require about nine hours for longer trips, and journeys to Porto generally take around five hours.
Avenida del Cardenal Cisneros is located adjacent to these transportation hubs, a commercial area known for its shopping and dining options. It features grocery stores, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Regarding accommodation in the Railway Station Area, there are several hotels for business travelers and tourists.
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Best Hotels near Zamora Renfe Station
AC Hotel Zamora by Marriott
This modern hotel is located steps away from the Zamora Railway Station, close to the city’s business and financial district. It offers a fitness center, Turkish bath, and stylish rooms with a mini-bar.
4. Spanish Navy Park & Avenida de Portugal
A modern and well-connected area in Zamora
Parque de la Marina Española is a huge central urban square offering monuments and some green areas.
Zamora’s most modern area juxtaposes contemporary amenities and historic charm. This district, centered around Parque de la Marina Española, is characterized by its urban layout with concrete surfaces interspersed with green areas and the notable gazebo known as “El Templete.” The park is bordered by several significant buildings, including a branch of the Visit Zamora Tourist Office and a huge midrise administrative building housing the local delegation of the Junta de Castilla y León.
Nearby, cultural institutions such as Teatro Elvira Fernández and the Fundos Fórum Zamora Auditorium provide a range of performances and events throughout the year. The area is also home to Avenida Alfonso IX and Avenida de Portugal. These main roads host an array of local bars, restaurants, and shops. Fashion brands such as Bershka and Adolfo Dominguez can be found here. Avenida de Portugal ultimately leads to the Puente de Hierro, an iron bridge that is a vital transportation link.
Best Hotels near Spanish Navy Park and Avenida de Portugal
Zenit Dos Infantas
Located in the center of Zamora, Zenit Dos Infantas offers rooms with a flat-screen TV, free WiFi and a mini-bar. This hotel includes a lounge and a bar.
5. Barrio de Cabañales
A quiet area to stay in Zamora, Spain
South of the Douro River, Barrio de Cabañales offers a more residential feel with its quiet streets and local shops.
Cabañales is situated in the southern part of Zamora, south of the Douro River. It is connected to the city center by two notable bridges: the historic Puente de Piedra and the more modern Puente de Hierro.
This area, particularly around the river, offers some of the best panoramic views of the old city.
Historically, Barrio de Cabañales is known for its traditional mills, such as the Aceñas de Cabañales. These medieval watermills have been restored and are a point of cultural interest, reflecting Zamora’s historical relationship with the river.
The area tends to be quieter and less commercial than central Zamora, offering a more laid-back atmosphere. The proximity of the bridges means that the city’s key landmarks, like the Zamora Cathedral and Plaza Mayor, are easily accessible.
From a transportation perspective, Barrio de Cabañales benefits from good connectivity due to its proximity to major thoroughfares and bridges leading into central Zamora. While local buses serve this neighborhood, you can also walk or cycle across the river.
Best Hotels in Cabañales
Hotel Puente de Piedra
Hotel Puente de Piedra is located in Zamora, within a 10-minute walk of the Ethnographic Museum and the Cathedral. This 2-star hotel has free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar. It also has family rooms.
Where to Stay in Zamora: A Personal Take
Finding a good place to stay in Zamora is quite straightforward. Being in the city center was perfect since Zamora is a small city despite being a provincial capital.
During my recent trip, I stayed at the four-star NH Zamora Palacio del Duero in one of the old Juderías (Jewish Areas) near the Old Town. This 4-star hotel provides great amenities and is hosted in a building with a fascinating backstory: it was once a convent, later turned into a factory, and finally converted into a modern hotel. Most attractions are within walking distance from the NH, making it convenient to explore Zamora. The hotel was the absolute right choice for my visit.
Zamora’s charm lies in its compact yet rich atmosphere. Staying in the Old Town and the Judería areas gives you access to winding streets full of history, culture, and architecture. Landmarks like the Cathedral of Zamora or the Castle are all reachable on foot from here. The nearby Plaza Mayor also offers great places to experience local cuisine and drinks.
Accommodation in Zamora, Spain: Useful Information
Zamora is easily accessible by train or bus. Trains from Madrid’s Chamartin station arrive in Zamora in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The city is small, and its medieval layout makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Despite its size, public transportation includes a few bus lines mostly used by the locals, but you may not need them.
Don’t miss tasting Zamora’s local delicacies. Try the ‘arroz a la zamorana,’ a rich rice dish with pork and sausage, and the ‘queso zamorano,’ a delicious sheep’s milk cheese. Follow up with ‘rebojos zamoranos,’ sweet almond biscuits perfect for dessert.
The climate in Zamora features cold winters with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F), mild springs with highs of about 18°C (64°F), warm summers reaching up to 30°C (86°F), and cool autumns averaging 15°C (59°F). The best time to visit is spring or fall when the weather is pleasant.
A must-visit attraction is the Zamora Cathedral, with its stunning Byzantine-style dome. Other notable sites include the medieval Castle of Zamora, the Romanesque Church of San Pedro y San Ildefonso, and the scenic Duero River Walk.
For accommodation, staying near Plaza Mayor puts you at the center of the action, with plenty of historical buildings to admire. Two other areas to consider are around the Castle, which offers charming streets, and the Railway station.
If you’re traveling on a budget, look for hostels or guesthouses just outside the main historic area but within walking distance, such as those near Calle Santiago. This area offers affordable options while still being close enough to all major attractions.
When booking your stay, choose accommodations with heating for winter visits or air conditioning for summer stays to ensure comfort regardless of the season.
