2025 Cuenca Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#cityplaybook Start your day with a trip to Nava del Buey, a beautiful natural park offering hiking trails with panoramic views over the Cuenca Mountains. Spend the morning surrounded by the tranquility of nature, taking in the fresh air and scenic vistas. Return to Cuenca for a lunch of pisto manchego (a local vegetable stew) at a charming rustic restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the Cuenca Science Museum, a hands-on experience with exhibits on nature, science, and local wildlife. For dinner, visit Restaurante El Secreto, known for its modern take on traditional Spanish dishes.

A day in Cuenca was an amazing experience, enjoying the charming streets and historical landmarks. The first place we visited was the 'Hanging Houses (Casas Colgadas)'. The unique buildings perched on the cliff are an iconic sight of Cuenca, and we were overwhelmed by their grandeur. Next, we went to Cuenca Cathedral. We were impressed by the beautiful Gothic exterior and the magnificent interior. In the afternoon, we strolled through the old town, exploring the narrow alleys and cobblestone streets, discovering historical buildings and small squares. From the nearby mountaintop, we had a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city of Cuenca, and we were captivated by its beauty for a while. Cuenca is a wonderful place where history, nature, and culture harmonize, and it is full of charm that makes you want to visit again.

La Mancha is a region just a short hour's drive (two hours by train) from Madrid, the capital of Spain. "La Mancha" means "dry land" in Arabic, and it is a rural area with olive groves and dry land. In one corner of the region, "Consuegra," there is "Windmill Hill," with its many towering white-painted windmills, which was the setting for the famous Don Quixote. It is said that this was the model for the famous scene in which the protagonist Don Quixote mistakes a windmill for a giant and charges at it. There are Next to the windmills are the remains of a brick fort from the Arab era, which looks completely different from the windmills. On the other hand, there is nothing else around (I'm sure I couldn't go inside at the time...) but it was a really picturesque scene. There was a statue of Don Quixote in the town near the nearest train station, Campo de Criptana. I remember that the area in front of the station was pretty quiet, and it was hard to catch a taxi. It's been 16 years since I visited, but it brings back fond memories... #Overseas travel record #Spain #Amazing view #La Mancha

I recently visited Belmonte Castle in Spain, and it was an amazing experience! 🏰 Located in the province of Cuenca, this medieval fortress is a must-see. The entrance fee was about 9 euros, which is well worth it for the chance to explore such a well-preserved castle. The architecture is stunning, with its Gothic-Mudejar style, and the views from the ramparts over the town and countryside are breathtaking. Walking through the castle, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The rooms are beautifully restored, with displays that give you a sense of what life was like in the Middle Ages. The castle also has a fascinating history, having been a strategic military site and later a noble residence. 🌟 Nearby, the town of Belmonte itself is charming, with narrow streets and traditional Spanish houses. Don't miss the Collegiate Church of San Bartolomé and the nearby windmills, which are reminiscent of Don Quixote's adventures. For a unique experience, check out the local wine cellars and taste some regional wines. Belmonte Castle is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. #BelmonteCastle #Spain #MedievalMagic #TravelSpain 🏰🇪🇸