Cuenca

Famous for its dramatic 'hanging houses' clinging to the edge of a deep gorge, Cuenca is a UNESCO-listed city full of medieval charm. It also hosts an outstanding museum of Spanish abstract art housed in the iconic Casas Colgadas.

Things to do

• Casas Colgadas & Museo de Arte Abstracto — Visit the iconic hanging houses that now house Spain's pioneering museum of abstract art with works by Tàpies, Chillida, and Zóbel.
• Puente de San Pablo — Cross this narrow pedestrian footbridge suspended over the Huécar gorge for dramatic views of the cliffside houses.
• Cuenca Cathedral — Explore this unusual Anglo-Norman Gothic cathedral on Plaza Mayor, the first of its style built in Spain.
• Ciudad Encantada — Take a day trip to this surreal natural park of wind-and-water-carved limestone formations shaped like animals and objects.
• Walk the Hoz del Júcar — Follow the walking path along the Júcar gorge for stunning perspectives of the old town perched above the cliffs.
• Torre de Mangana — Climb to this old clock tower ruin for panoramic views over the city and surrounding gorges.
• Stay or dine at the Parador de Cuenca — This former 16th-century convent across the gorge offers one of the best photo angles of the hanging houses.
• Wander the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) — Get lost in the steep, winding medieval streets lined with colorful facades and artisan shops.

Food to try

• Morteruelo — A rich, warm pâté-like dish made from game meats, liver, and spices, a local specialty since medieval times.
• Zarajos — Grilled lamb intestines wrapped around vine shoots, a traditional and distinctive Cuenca tapa.
• Ajoarriero — A garlicky salt cod and potato spread often served as a starter or tapa.
• Alajú — A dense sweet made of honey, almonds, and breadcrumbs, traditionally eaten around Christmas.
• Resoli — A local coffee-and-cinnamon liqueur often sipped after meals as a digestif.
• Trucha a la Serrana — Local river trout prepared with ham and a savory sauce, reflecting the region's mountain cuisine.

Local customs & good to know

• Wear sturdy shoes — The old town's steep cobbled streets and stairways can be tough on flat or slippery footwear.
• Respect siesta hours — Many shops and some restaurants close in the early afternoon before reopening in the evening.
• Experience Semana Santa — Cuenca's Holy Week processions are UNESCO-recognized and draw large crowds, so book accommodations early if visiting then.
• Dine late — Locals typically eat lunch around 2pm and dinner after 9pm, so restaurants may be quiet outside these hours.