Colmenar Viejo

Colmenar Viejo is a charming town located in the Madrid region of Spain. It is known for its well-preserved historic center, which features narrow streets and traditional Spanish architecture. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.

Colmenar Viejo also has a rich cultural heritage, with notable landmarks such as the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor and the Museum of Toros.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Lo siento" - I'm sorry

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring the Town

morning:Start your day with a visit to the San Lorenzo Church, a beautiful 16th-century building. Then, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets lined with historic buildings and picturesque squares. Consider stopping by at Cafe del Sol for some delicious pastries and coffee.

afternoon:Head to the local history museum, Museo de la Villa, to dive into the town's rich history. Afterward, take a short drive to La Pedriza, a stunning natural park, and go for a hike to enjoy breathtaking views. For lunch, try the authentic Spanish cuisine at Mesón de Cándido.

evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife at Plaza de la Berenjena, where you can find lively bars and taverns offering great drinks and music.

day 2

Cultural Immersion

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the El Torreón, a historic tower that showcases the town's medieval heritage. Then, take a stroll through the Plaza del Pueblo and visit the local artisan market while savoring some freshly made churros and chocolate at Churrería del Convento.

afternoon:Immerse yourself in the local art scene at Galería La Pared, an art gallery featuring contemporary Spanish artwork. Later, pay a visit to the Bullfighting Museum to learn about the cultural significance of bullfighting in Spain. For a delightful lunch, try the traditional Spanish dishes at Restaurante Asador Europa.

evening:Indulge in an evening of flamenco at Tablao El Corral, where you can witness passionate performances and enjoy authentic Spanish music and dance.

day 3

Outdoor Adventure

morning:Embark on an exciting adventure with a visit to the nearby Embalse de Santillana, a stunning reservoir offering opportunities for canoeing and paddleboarding. You can also explore the scenic trails around the reservoir for a refreshing morning hike. Before you head out, grab a quick breakfast at Cafetería El Espejo.

afternoon:Satisfy your hunger with a delightful picnic at Parque Temático La Era, a peaceful park featuring picnic areas and scenic views. Afterward, venture into the Cuenca Alta del Manzanares Regional Park for an afternoon of birdwatching and nature photography.

evening:Unwind and relax with a visit to the Balneario Aqua Wellness, a rejuvenating spa offering a range of treatments and thermal pools to soothe your senses.

day 4

Gastronomic Delight

morning:Kick off your day with a visit to the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling local market where you can sample a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the market's charming cafes, such as Café del Mercado.

afternoon:Participate in a traditional cooking class at Escuela de Cocina Gastronómica la Marmesal, where you'll learn to prepare authentic Spanish dishes using fresh, local ingredients. After the class, enjoy the delectable creations for a satisfying lunch experience.

evening:Embark on a culinary journey through the town's finest restaurants, such as Restaurante El Botánico and Restaurante Venta Marcelino, to savor a variety of mouthwatering Spanish dishes paired with delightful wines.

Colmenar Viejo Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Cocido Madrileño

A stew made with chickpeas, various meats, and vegetables, offering a perfect blend of flavors. It's a staple dish in Colmenar Viejo and can be savored at Mesón Restaurante El Lugar.

Must-Try!

Gambas al Ajillo

This classic Spanish dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in olive oil with garlic and chili, creating a mouthwatering appetizer. La Taberna de Clara is a top spot to relish this dish.

Callos a la Madrileña

A savory stew made from tripe, chorizo, and chickpeas, stewed to perfection and served at Restaurante El Rincón de Madrid.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Mercado de Abastos

This lively market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, regional cheeses, and local culinary delights. Visitors can sample an array of street foods like bocadillos and empanadas from various vendors.

Feria de la Tapa

Feria de la Tapa is a vibrant street food festival held annually, showcasing an assortment of tapas and specialties from local chefs and vendors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Things to do in Colmenar Viejo

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Colmenar Viejo

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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