Dreaming of touring Spain? You might want to add Cuenca to your itinerary! The city of Cuenca is located in the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha, which is in the central parts of the country. It was established by the Moors and, the origin of the city’s name is said to have been derived from the word ‘Conca’ which literally means 'river basin.’ Because it is situated on top of a river gorge, the city invites thousands of tourists annually just to get a glimpse of its natural beauty and stunning vista. Furthermore, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and considered to be one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval cities. Before leaving on a jet plane to visit this beautiful city, you might want to stick around first and check out this article as it’ll give you an idea of some of the things to do in Cuenca, Spain!
1. Be fascinated by Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas
Standing at the highest point of Cuenca is Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas. Its history dates back to the 1600s, and because it hails from a completely different era, it has been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO. This is where you can marvel at the ancient architecture and flex your photography skills. The structure is built using age-old techniques and its style is definitely a wonder to see in this day and age. While visiting Cuenca, Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas is one of the first sites that you should visit. There is a small entry fee, but if you drop by on a Wednesday after seven in the evening, the entry is free!
Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas
Address: Camino de Nohales, s/n 16002 - Cuenca
2. Soak in the past at Nuestra Senora de las Angustias
Nuestra Senora de las Angustias is an off the beaten tourist spot in Cuenca, Spain, but if you’re into learning about history and marveling at ancient architectures, then visiting the church is going to be worth the effort. This church was built on an older church that dates back to the 14th century, so there’s plenty of history that you can absorb. Also, a visitor is required by tradition to kiss the Viernes de Dolores
Nuestra Senora de las Angustias
Address: Bajada Angustias, 4, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: Winters: 9am - 7pm (daily); Summers: 9am - 10pm (daily)
3. Learn about the Catholic Faith at San Julian Seminary
One of the best places to learn about Christianity in Cuenca is at San Julian Seminary. The staff of the seminary is always more than willing to share the history of the Christian faith, and whether you’re someone who is just curious about everything including different religions and spirituality, or you’re just a casual learner, then visiting the seminary is going to be worth it.
San Julian Seminary
Address: Plaza la Merced, 3, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: San Julian Seminary
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Express your love for photography at Titiri Cuenca Park play area
While it isn’t as popular a tourist attraction in Cuenca as it should be, if you want great subjects for your next street photography project, then you might want to visit Titiri Cuenca Park! There are many people going out and about the park, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take good photos there! You can bring your family for a wholesome experience.
Titiri Cuenca Park
Address: Cuenca, Spain
5. Learn about dinosaurs at Museo de Paleontologia de Castilla-La Mancha
When you think of dinosaurs, you probably won’t think of Cuenca, Spain, as a good place to learn about them. Well, assumptions are almost always wrong, because at Calle del Rio Gritos stands Museo de Paleontologia de Castilla-La Mancha, a museum dedicated to showcasing the magnificent giants that once roamed our planet! The museum accepts group guided tours at a reduced rate, so you might want to rally your dinosaur-loving friends with you, and if you time your visit on a Wednesday, May 18, or May 31, entry is going to be free!
Museo de Paleontologia de Castilla-La Mancha
Address: Calle del Río Gritos, 5, 16004 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Museo de Paleontologia de Castilla-La Mancha
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 2pm, 4pm - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 2pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 6 USD
6. Marvel at the Hanging Houses of Cuenca (from USD 82.0)
The Hanging Houses of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features unique houses perched on a cliff! These marvelous structures date back to the 15th century, and one of them is a Spanish Museum of Abstract Art, so if you decide to visit this tourist attraction alone or through a day trip, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to feel awed while learning about the history of Spain! As a cherry on top, you’ll get to see the amazing view of the Huécar River!
Day trip to Cuenca from Madrid with cathedral visit
Duration: 10 hours
7. Relax at San Julián Park green spaces
If you are looking for a place where you can relax and view some greeneries, you can do so at San Julián Park! You can read your favorite book in silence while sitting on one of the benches, sip a cup of coffee or tea in the morning, or simply bask in the relaxing ambiance courtesy the trees that surround the park. The park is also a great place to go for a quick jog or bike-ride!
San Julián Park
Address: Unnamed Road, 16001, 16001, Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
8. Chill out at Alameda Park
Alameda is yet another place in Cuenca, Spain to enjoy fresh winds and calming vibes. There are lots of trees scattered around the park, as well as benches installed in its streets, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Other features of the park are swings, fountains, and a bridge where you can see wild ducks swimming. Alameda Park isn’t a well-known spot in Cuenca, but it still has a lot of simple features that evoke tranquil feels to tourists.
Alameda Park
Address: Av. de San Julián, 2A, 16002 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Learn about the Spanish culture and history at Museo de Cuenca
Museo de Cuenca is a museum where you can absorb so many things about Spanish history and culture. It is said that the museum started from Cuenca’s ex-mayor D. Francisco Suay hobby of collecting historical artifacts and objects which were later donated to the local government and thus established the Museo de Cuenca. If you are someone who is fascinated by Roman archeological objects, then visiting the museum is highly recommended.
Museo de Cuenca
Address: Calle Obispo Valero, 12, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Museo de Cuenca
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 2pm, 4pm - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 2pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 4 USD
10. Take Instagram-worthy photos at Iglesia de la Virgen de la Luz
Iglesia de la Virgen de la Luz is a church built around 16th century and was completed around 18th century. The architectural style of the building is still fascinating in modern times, and its Rococo interiors are truly Instagram-worthy. The church’s patron saint is Black Madonna. If you have a thing for ancient structures, then definitely visit Iglesia de la Virgen de la Luz as you’re sure to be fascinated here!
Iglesia de la Virgen de la Luz
Address: Calle San Lázaro, 2D, 16002 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 8am - 1pm, 6pm - 8pm (daily)
11. Get a dose of abstract art at Museo de Arte Abstracto Español
If you love arts and wonderful sights, then definitely head to Museo de Arte Abstracto Español which is set atop a cliff and is one of the Hanging Houses of Cuenca. From the inside, you’ll have the opportunity to view beautiful sights through its windows, but of course, it isn’t just the view from the museum that will captivate your eyes! They also have a collection of abstract art pieces such as paintings and sculptures that dates back from the 50s and 60s. The museum also sells reproductions and books, which is great if you want to buy a souvenir to remind you of your time in Cuenca, Spain.
Museo de Arte Abstracto Español
Address: Casas Colgadas, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Museo de Arte Abstracto Español
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 6pm; Sat: 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 2.30pm (closed on Mon)
12. Enjoy a large collection of artwork at Museo Tesoro Catedral Cuenca
Museo Tesoro Catedral Cuenca has many wonders to share with tourists. With over 200 works of art that tell stories from the past, you will surely have a lot to learn here. Aside from artworks and artifacts, they also have jewelry, tapestries, and renaissance tables as part of their huge collection. The museum has 10 rooms, so there are lots of things that you can explore here! The disabled as well as senior citizens and large groups can enjoy discounted rates.
Museo Tesoro Catedral Cuenca
Address: Plaza Mayor, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Museo Tesoro Catedral Cuenca
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 7pm
Price: 10 USD
13. Explore the Historic Walled Town of Cuenca
Historic Walled Town of Cuenca is so rich in history that it has been granted the title of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It was originally built by the moors for defensive purposes, and it survived hundreds of years, and today, it stands as a memory of Spain’s past, as well as a tourist attraction. Historic Walled Town of Cuenca is also near some of the best features of Cuenca, such as the Hanging Houses and the Huécar River.
Historic Walled Town of Cuenca
Address: Castile-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
14. Make your way through Túnel Alfonso VIII: an ancient tunnel
Túnel calle Alfonso VIII. Cuenca. los túneles de la guerra civil
Posted by Celeste Albo on Monday, 16 March 2015
Túnel Alfonso VIII has played many roles since time immemorial. It was once used as a crypt, a watercourse, a hiding place during the Spanish Civil War, and today, a fascinating tourist attraction. The damaged section of the tunnel has been renovated for this purpose, and lighting equipment was installed along with walkways and signboards to help visitors see and appreciate the ancient architectural wonder. Guided tours are available, however, it is only in Spanish.
Túnel Alfonso VIII
Address: Calle de Calderón de la Barca, s/n, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 1pm - 1:30pm, 6pm - 6:30pm; Thu - Fri: 1pm - 1:30pm, 6pm - 6:40pm; Sat: 12pm - 12:30pm, 1pm - 1:40pm, 6pm - 6:30pm, 7pm - 7:40pm; Sun: 12pm - 12:30pm, 1pm - 1:40pm, 5pm - 5:40pm
Price: 4 USD
15. Learn more at Antonio Pérez Foundation Museum
One of the most iconic figures in Spain is Antonio Pérez; a poet and a philosopher who has contributed so much to Spain’s culture. If you want to learn about this man’s story and achievements, definitely visit Antonio Pérez Foundation Museum. Not only will you learn about Pérez, but you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to appreciate different types of artwork here! They hold exhibitions regularly where you will also get the chance to meet locals and tourists alike.
Antonio Pérez Foundation Museum
Address: Ronda Julián Romero, 20, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Antonio Pérez Foundation Museum
Opening hours: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 8pm (daily)
Price: 3 USD
16. Catch a glimpse of the town from Mirador Barrio del Castillo (from USD 82.0)
If you love a bird-eye view, then definitely check out Mirador Barrio del Castillo. It is located near the castle ruins and it features a spot wherefrom you can get a stunning view of the city. It is great for people who love taking pictures and sharing them on Instagram or Facebook. In addition, there are several nearby ancient houses with old but cool architectural designs.
Tour to Cuenca from Madrid: option of cathedral or Enchanted City
Duration: 11 hours 30 minutes
17. Don't miss the gorgeous Torre de Mangana
Torre de Mangana was built by the Moors and is one of the most beautiful architectures that was erected in Spain. The history of the Moors and the Spanish people have come to an end already, however, Torre de Mangana still stands and now serves as a tourist destination as well as a huge artefact of Spain’s past. Oh, and by the way, the tower is photogenic and can make for a good subject!
Torre de Mangana
Address: Calle Sta. María, 1, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: Mon: 8:30am - 12am; Tue - Sun: 24 hours
18. Be mesmerized by the night lights at Cerro del Socorro
Pero que bonita es la #noche en #Cuenca
Posted by EcoExperience on Thursday, 24 November 2016
Are you particularly fond of bright lights at night? Well, there’s a place in Cuenca where you can adore the city lights of the Old Town from high up. And that place is none other than Mirador del Cerro del Socorro. It is situated on a hill right across the Huécar River. The attraction isn’t just a wonderful spot at night, it is also a great place to explore in the morning! You can even hike its 1.8-mile (3 kilometers) trail!
Cerro del Socorro
Address: Unnamed Rd,, 16004 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
19. Visit the legendary Cristo del Pasadizo
Cristo del Pasadizo, according to legends in Cuenca, is a place where a tragic love story occurred; about a young man named Julian, from a poor family and a girl named Ines, from an affluent one. One day, Julian decided to leave so he could earn a fortune and be more deserving of Ines’ love. However, Julian didn’t return for a long time, and Ine’s assumed that he will not come back anymore, which made her decide to marry another guy, Lesmes. However, Julian did return, and as soon as he found out about Lesmes, he tried killing him; both Lesmes and Julian died. It is said that the statue of Jesus called Cristo del Pasadizo wept after that fateful event. If you want to learn more about the story of Julian and Ines, then definitely pay the passage a visit.
Cristo del Pasadizo
Address: Calle San Pedro, 46, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
20. Go for a morning jog at Huecar Park
Parque del Huécar, Cuenca
Posted by Elena Abarca Fotografía on Tuesday, 8 October 2019
If you’re looking for a place where you can jog in the morning or just relax while enjoying peaceful moments, then definitely visit Huecar Park. It is covered in shades of the green trees that grow in the surrounding. It is ideal for people who want to chill at a park while reading their favorite book or sipping a cup of hot coffee. You can also go on biking here, if you like, or walk your friendly dog, too.
Huecar Park
Address: Paseo Parque Huécar, 1, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
21. Explore wonderful structures at Plaza Mayor de Cuenca
If you want to explore more of Cuenca’s 16th-century architecture, you’d best head to Plaza Mayor de Cuenca where you can immortalize the memories of your visit to Cuenca using your phone’s camera. After a good photo session, you can head to several tourist spots near the plaza, such as the Basin, Museum of Holy Week, and the Science Museum of Castilla-La Mancha in Cuenca. There are also nearby eateries and accommodations, making Plaza Mayor de Cuenca a convenient place to start your adventure to Cuenca.
Plaza Mayor de Cuenca
Address: 16001 Cuenca, Spain
22. Step into the fascinating Iglesia San Pedro
Iglesia San Pedro is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cuenca. It features a beautiful interior complemented by soothing music which makes it an unforgettable place to visit. Aside from being an architectural wonder, there are many historical artifacts displayed in the church which makes it an even more interesting place to explore. A night visit ticket is slightly expensive than a day visit ticket, however, the night visit gives you a different experience than going there in the morning; the lights and shadows during evening make the church an even more solemn place.
Iglesia San Pedro
Address: Plaza Trabuco, s/n, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Iglesia San Pedro
Opening hours: Thu - Mon: 10am - 7pm; Tue: 10am - 3pm (closed on Wed)
Price: 10 - 15 USD
23. Be a child once more at Príncipes Park
Posted by Jose Maria Notari on Monday, 12 August 2019
If you miss your childhood days, then there’s a place in Cuenca where you can play like a child once more. At Príncipes Park there’s a seesaw, monkey bars, slides, and swings here, where you can relive your childhood days. If you are with your children, then it is going to be the perfect spot for unlimited enjoyment and innocent fun! The park is also great for jogging or cycling. Also, the park is clean and has a relaxing ambiance, which makes it an ideal place to just chill and relax.
Príncipes Park
Address: Av del Mediterráneo, s/n, 16004 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
24. Take beautiful pictures of Ruinas del Castillo de Cuenca
If you have a thing for ancient castles and ruins from the past, then you will enjoy your visit to Ruinas del Castillo de Cuenca. Not only is the ancient tower a structure to be fascinated with, but the views from the castle will also leave you in awe. Going here means that your phone’s going to be filled with beautiful pictures that you can definitely share on your social media wall! Bring your family for a wonderful experience.
Ruinas del Castillo de Cuenca
Address: Calle Trabuco, 4, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
25. Learn about the works of Gustavo Torner at Espacio Torner
Gustavo Torner is one of the most famous artists in Spain who is also known to be one of those who contributed to the 1960’s art of the country. If you want to learn more about this amazing guy, then definitely pay Espacio Torner a visit! Here is where you will get to see and appreciate Gustavo’s various works. But it isn’t just his works of art that’ll make you fascinated here, the building itself is a thing of wonder, as it is a former gothic church turned into museum. This is a perfect place for artists and architects to come, appreciate, and learn more.
Espacio Torner
Address: s/n Hoz del Huecar, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Espacio Torner
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 2pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 3.5 USD
26. Be in awe at Ciudad Encantada (from USD 82.0)
Ciudad Encantada features geological wonders shaped by the forces of water. Some of the most notable rock formations here are the Mushroom Rock that resembles a fungus, and the Rock Wall which resembles a clenched fist. These rock formations are said to date back to the Cretaceous period, about 90 million years back. Quite notably, Ciudad Encantada appeared in several movies, such as A Professional Gun, Conan the Barbarian, and The World is Not Enough.
Tour to Cuenca from Madrid: option of cathedral or Enchanted City
Duration: 11 hours 30 minutes
27. Explore the Castle of Castillo de Garcimuñoz
The castle was once owned by Garcimuñoz, a knight who served King Alfonso VIII, hence the castle was named after him. Its design is gothic, so if you have a thing for all things Gothic, then definitely visit Castillo de Garcimuñoz. There’s a tower within the castle where you can climb and get a good view of the surrounding areas. You might want to rally your friends here because they offer a discounted ticket price for group tours!
Castle of Castillo de Garcimuñoz
Address: Calle Corredera, 1, 16623 Castillo de Garcimuñoz, Cuenca, Spain
Website: Castle of Castillo de Garcimuñoz
Opening hours: Mon: 12pm - 12:30am (closed from Tue - Sun)
Price: 5 - 6 USD
28. Appreciate art at Museo de la Semana Santa de Cuenca
Posted by Museo De La Semana Santa de Cuenca on Thursday, 27 June 2019
Museo de la Semana Santa de Cuenca is located in the historic center of Cuenca. It first opened in 2007 and offers various works of art, such as the works of Marco Pérez, and many artistic representations of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ. The museum has over 150 collections of artworks, and also offers a discounted entrance fee to people with disabilities, unemployment, post-retirement, as well as for group visits.
Museo de la Semana Santa de Cuenca
Address: Calle Andrés de Cabrera, 13, 16001 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Museo de la Semana Santa de Cuenca
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 11am - 2pm, 4:30pm - 7:30pm; Sun: 11am - 2pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: 3.5 USD
29. Shop 'til you drop at Centro Comercial El Mirador
Your vacation wouldn’t be complete without going on a shopping spree in the country you’re visiting! After all, you need to buy your friends and loved ones a souvenir from your Cuenca trip. And there’s a popular shopping center in Cuenca, named Centro Comercial El Mirador! From here you can buy various branded wears, such as shoes and clothes, small items, and local brands. The mall also offers a cinema where you can watch your much-awaited movie while you’re out of your country, and it has various restaurants to dine in! Come with your family and enjoy the multiple options.
Centro Comercial El Mirador
Address: Av del Mediterráneo, s/n, 16004 Cuenca, Spain
Website: Centro Comercial El Mirador
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
30. Enjoy the overlooking views at Puente de San Pablo (from USD 70.48)
Set above the Huécar River, Puente de San Pablo is a great tourist spot to visit as it gives you access to the stunning view of the river. It is also a good spot to adore the marvelous Hanging Houses of Cuenca. This is a perfect place for photographers to get a good angle of the many interesting places within the vicinity. The bridge is 100 meters in length (about 328 feet long).
From Madrid: Cuenca Guided Tour with Optional Lunch
Duration: 12 hour
And there's still a lot more to Cuenca
These are just some of the things that you can put on your itinerary for your upcoming vacation in Cuenca. However, let us warn that there are many more activities to do and adventures to sign up for. You just need to bring your enthusiasm and the rest should fall in place.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
15 Best Things To Do In Mt. Juliet, TennesseeSwadeep Singh -
Create an account to