Article Author: Liam O'Connell FREETOUR.com Head of Content Strategy

Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage city in western Spain's Castilla y León region, known for its golden sandstone buildings that have earned it the nickname "La Dorada" (The Golden City). It is home to Spain's oldest university, founded in 1218, and is rich in academic traditions, including the famous frog legend on the University's ornate Plateresque façade. The impressive Plaza Mayor, often called Spain's most beautiful baroque square, is full of student life, tapas bars, and evening strolls under its elegant arcades. Two cathedrals, one Romanesque and one Gothic, stand side by side, showing the city's architectural history. Other highlights include the Casa de las Conchas with its shell-covered façade, the Clerecia's baroque towers with panoramic views, and the Roman bridge over the Tormes River. Just 90 minutes from Madrid, Salamanca offers a mix of historic monuments, a lively student scene, and authentic Castilian culture.

Almería is the sunniest city in Andalusia, blending Moorish history with striking desert scenery and beautiful Mediterranean beaches. The huge Alcazaba fortress, one of Spain's largest, stands out on the skyline, while the fortified cathedral shows how the city defended itself from pirate attacks for centuries. This lesser-known part of southern Spain has real Andalusian charm without the crowds. The nearby Tabernas Desert was the setting for many Spaghetti Westerns, and the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park protects unspoiled coastline with volcanic cliffs and hidden coves. Almería’s food features simple but tasty dishes like ajo colorao (red garlic stew), reflecting its farming and fishing roots. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, Almería is a great place to visit any time. You can explore Moorish palaces with city views, visit Civil War shelters under the streets, or enjoy fresh seafood in local tapas bars. This Freetour.com guide will help you find the city’s top sights, best food, and hidden gems, with expert tips for every stop.