Hotels in Cuenca

Old town and Plaza Mayor

Cuenca's upper town sits on a ridge between the gorges of the Júcar and the Huécar. Here you have the Plaza Mayor, the cathedral, the Hanging Houses and the San Pablo bridge. Sleeping up here lets you stroll at night through almost empty streets and take in the viewpoints at leisure. The choice is small, mostly guesthouses and apartments. If you drive, leave the car in the car parks at the entrance and walk up with just what you need.

Best-rated in this area: Hospederia Seminario Conciliar de San Julián, with a score of 9.2 from 3,776 reviews.

Barrio del Castillo

At the very top of the old town, by the castle ruins and the Bezudo arch, is an even quieter corner. From here you have views of both gorges and paths leading down into them. It suits those looking for silence who don't mind the slopes. If you have luggage, bear in mind that car access is narrow and parking is difficult. At sunset, the viewpoints over the Júcar gorge are the simplest plan and one of the most beautiful.

Best-rated in this area: Parador de Cuenca, with a score of 8.9 from 2,403 reviews.

Carretería and the lower town

The new town is laid out around Calle Carretería, pedestrianised and full of shops, and San Julián park. It has most of the hotels, restaurants of every kind and easier parking. To get up to the old town you can walk up a long hill or take the city bus to the Plaza Mayor. It is the most convenient area for families and business travellers.

San Antón and the Júcar riverside

At the foot of the old town, by the San Antón bridge and the banks of the Júcar, is a down-to-earth neighbourhood with bars and riverside walks, halfway between the upper and lower towns. Note that the high-speed station is on the outskirts, so you will need a bus or taxi to reach any of these areas.

Best-rated in this area: Hotel Torremangana, with a score of 8.2 from 7,310 reviews.