Free walking tours in Medina del Campo and what to see

Must-sees

Medina del Campo was one of the great trade-fair towns of Castile, and its history makes sense from the huge, open Plaza Mayor de la Hispanidad. Here are the collegiate church of San Antolín and the town hall. To one side is the Palacio Real Testamentario, where Isabella the Catholic died in 1504, now an interpretation centre. The Museo de las Ferias explains how that international trade worked.

The main monument is the brick Castillo de la Mota, with a deep moat and a keep visible from afar. You can visit inside. Also make time for the Palacio de los Dueñas, with a Renaissance courtyard, and a stroll through the streets leading off the square. If you come at Easter, its processions are steeped in tradition.

Free tours and guided visits

At some times of year there are free walking tours of the centre, covering the square, the collegiate church and the palace where the queen made her will. The most common options, though, are guided visits to the Castillo de la Mota and routes organised by the tourist office. From here it is easy to visit wineries in the Rueda appellation or take a trip to Tordesillas.

How long to spend

A full day is about right. In the morning visit the Castillo de la Mota, which is a little way from the centre. In the afternoon explore the Plaza Mayor, the palace and the Museo de las Ferias. In between, have lunch in one of the bars on the square. If you add Rueda wineries or nearby towns such as Tordesillas, stay two days.

Where to stay

The most practical choice is to stay near the Plaza Mayor, where the bars and main monuments are. From there the castle is a walk of about fifteen minutes. The railway station is also close to the centre, handy if you arrive from Madrid or Valladolid without a car.