Free walking tours in Benavente and what to see

Must-sees

Benavente is a stopover town at the confluence of the Esla and Órbigo rivers, with a small centre you can walk around. Of the old castle of the Counts of Benavente, the Torre del Caracol remains, now part of the Parador, with a remarkable Mudéjar coffered ceiling. From the park around it you get a good view over the plain. It's the highest point and the best place to start.

In the centre, two Romanesque churches stand out. Santa María del Azogue has five apses and interesting doorways, and San Juan del Mercado keeps a doorway with scenes of the Three Kings. Close by is the Hospital de la Piedad, with a Renaissance courtyard. The Plaza Mayor and the shopping streets leading off it complete the walk, with bars where you can try Zamora cooking.

Free tours and guided visits

There are usually no pay-what-you-like free walking tours in Benavente. Guided visits of the historic centre are the norm, focusing on the Romanesque churches and the history of the counts. From here, excursions to the Lagunas de Villafáfila Nature Reserve, known for its steppe and water birds, and to the Cistercian monastery of Moreruela, ruined but very evocative, are worthwhile. Puebla de Sanabria and its lake are also within reasonable reach for a day trip.

How long to spend

You can see Benavente's centre in half a day, about four hours at a relaxed pace. In the morning, climb to the Torre del Caracol and visit the two Romanesque churches. In the afternoon you can head to Villafáfila for birdwatching, best in winter and spring. If you want to include Sanabria or Moreruela, allow two days and use Benavente as a base, as it has good road links.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in the centre, near the Plaza Mayor, to have the churches and restaurants close at hand. The Parador, next to the Torre del Caracol, is an option with good views and somewhat away from the traffic. At the town's exits there are practical roadside hotels if you're passing through and just need a bed before moving on.