Free walking tours in Tudela and what to see

Must-sees

Tudela is the second city of Navarre, and its old town reflects a past in which Christians, Muslims and Jews lived side by side. The cathedral of Santa María, built over the old mosque, is the main sight. Its Last Judgement portal, full of carved figures, deserves a good while. Inside, the Romanesque cloister and the altarpieces stand out.

Plaza de los Fueros, with its balconies and its former use as a bullring, is the centre of local life. From there you can walk the streets of the old Jewish and Moorish quarters, the church of La Magdalena and several palaces, such as that of the Marqués de Huarte. The Cerro de Santa Bárbara, crowned by a statue of the Sacred Heart, offers views over the city and the bridge across the Ebro.

Free tours and guided visits

Tudela has guided walks around the old town, some pay-what-you-like and others focused on the cathedral and the Jewish and Muslim heritage. A guided tour of the cathedral helps you understand its different phases. The must-do excursion is the Bardenas Reales natural park, a semi-desert landscape of clay and gypsum formations. It can be explored with a guide by vehicle, by bike or on foot.

How long to spend

One day is enough for the cathedral, the old town and a lunch of Ribera vegetables, famous for their artichokes, lettuce hearts and asparagus. With two days you can spend a full day in the Bardenas Reales, best in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heat. Add a third and Olite is a short distance away.

Where to stay

The best place to stay is the old town or the streets near Plaza de los Fueros. From there you can walk to the cathedral, the pintxo bars and the vegetable restaurants. If you are going to the Bardenas by car, the hotels on the outskirts have easier parking, though you miss the evening atmosphere of the centre.