Bathed in the honeyed glow of sandstone façades, Salamanca is a city that wears its history with effortless grace. From the Roman Bridge crossing the Tormes River to the soaring towers of its twin cathedrals, the Golden City is a living testament to centuries of scholarship, devotion, and civic pride. At its heart stands the University of Salamanca—founded in 1218 and among the oldest in Europe—whose ornate Plateresque façade continues to inspire visitors much as it did the scholars of centuries past. Yet Salamanca is no museum piece. It is a city alive with rhythm and ritual: students filling its cafés and bookshops, neighbors gathering over tapas, and religious processions animating the calendar. The iconic Plaza Mayor remains its vibrant stage, while narrow lanes lead to hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and convivial taverns. Beyond the city, rolling hills, bird-rich wetlands, and historic villages invite day trips that reveal the pastoral soul of Castile and León. This guidebook offers both inspiration and practical tools to make the most of every visit. Detailed chapters cover essential travel logistics—from when to go, how to get there, and where to stay, to navigating transport and understanding local etiquette. The city’s architectural treasures are explored in depth, with maps and “how to get there” guidance for landmarks such as the Casa de las Conchas, Convento de San Esteban, and the Art Nouveau jewel of Casa Lis. For travelers seeking more than monuments, the book highlights Salamanca’s living culture: its gastronomy, nightlife, shopping traditions, and annual festivals. Curated itineraries—ranging from a one-day highlights tour to a week-long immersion—help readers tailor their journey, while suggestions for outdoor activities, from riverside walks to kayaking and horseback riding, provide fresh perspectives on the city and its surroundings. Designed for first-time explorers and returning admirers alike, this guide equips readers with insider knowledge, context, and carefully chosen recommendations. Whether your interest lies in history, architecture, food, or simply savoring the atmosphere of one of Spain’s most captivating cities, this book ensures your time in Salamanca is both rewarding and memorable. With its balance of scholarship, storytelling, and practical advice, this guide reveals Salamanca not only as a destination to be seen, but as a city to be experienced—where the past remains vividly present, and every visit leaves a lasting impression.