Soria

Introduction

Nestled along the Douro river in the Castile and León region of Spain, you will find Soria serves as both a city and the capital of its namesake province. Situated at a high elevation, it stands as one of the highest provincial capitals in the country.

Before you go

Prepare to step back in time as you explore this provincial capital, which maintains the atmosphere of a traditional market town. You will encounter a landscape shaped by centuries of conflict and transition, from its origins under the Umayyad Moors to its later rule by the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon. The local scenery is defined by Romanesque churches that reflect the region's history of repopulation and Christianization.

While the area was once a bustling hub for cattle-farming and military defense along the border, you will find a peaceful environment today. Because it never developed heavy industry, the town preserves its historic character as you wander through its streets.

Getting there

You can reach the city by road from Madrid via the A-2 to Medinacelli and then north on the A-15, or from Zaragoza following the AP-68 onto the N-122. If you prefer traveling by bus, Alsa services run from Madrid Av America toward Logroño or Pamplona. Note that the local bus station is currently undergoing reconstruction, which may cause some disruption as buses stop on the street near the corner of Av Constitución and Av Valladolid.

Rail travel provides another option, with trains running from Madrid Chamartín through several stops such as Guadalajara and Siguenza to reach the railway station located at the southern edge of town. Local town buses 2 and 3 also serve the area near the bus station.

Getting around

You can explore many of the local sights on foot, as most are located within walking distance. This includes reaching San Saturio via a footbridge.

If you wish to visit outlying sights, you will need wheels to travel further from the center. You can choose between several local bus routes or utilize one of the many taxi firms available in the area.

Where to stay

You can find comfortable accommodations situated near the heart of the city. Options on the south side of the main square offer simple but clean rooms, while a small hotel on the north side provides a decent stay. For those seeking a central location with unique character, you can choose a pleasant hotel featuring quirky decor or a very clean option that remains quiet despite its central position.

If you prefer modern amenities or specific features, consider these alternatives:

• A spa hotel that is exceptionally clean and eager to please.
• A modern hotel located near the castle known for its comfort, service, and dining.

Food & drink

You can enjoy a variety of dining options throughout the city, including fine dining at Restaurante Baluarte. If you prefer to dine in the heart of the city, Mesón Castellano and Casa Augusto are located in the Plaza Mayor.

The western part of the city, specifically the blocks between Puertas de Pro and Plaza Salvador, contains the main concentration of both restaurants and bars. While Soria is situated within the vineyards of the Castilla y León DOP region, you can sample local red wines produced throughout the area.

What to see and do

Explore the historic heart of the city starting at the pedestrianized Plaza Mayor, where you can admire the City Hall and the gilded interior of the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Nearby, visit the 12th-century Romanesque Iglesia de San Juan de Rabanera or walk toward the well-preserved section of the city walls along Santa Clara. For a cultural experience, stop at Casa de los Poetas to enjoy its cafe and museum space dedicated to notable poets like Antonio Machado and Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.

Experience the region's rich history by visiting the Museo Numantino or traveling to the site of Numantia to see the remains of a fortified town that resisted Roman incursion. You can also explore various religious sites, including the 12th-century Iglesia de Santo Domingo with its Gothic interior additions and the ruined church of San Nicolás. Further along the river, visit the extensive ruins of Monasterio de San Juan de Duero or see the Hermitage of San Saturio perched on cliffs above the water. If you prefer to venture further out, the mozarabe style Iglesia de San Baudelio features a cave beneath the church and remains of historic frescoes.

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of Castile by exploring the local character of Soria. You can enjoy a traditional meal at Restaurante Baluarte or find a seat at Mesón Castellano to experience the regional flavors.

Day two, you can explore the historical influences of the region, from its Romanesque architecture to the traces left by the Umayyad Moors and the period of Christianization. You can wander through the streets to appreciate the local atmosphere.

Day three, you can enjoy a final meal at Casa Augusto before preparing for your departure. Whether you are traveling toward Madrid or other nearby destinations, you can take in the sights of the surrounding landscape.