Hotels in Avila

Ávila is not a huge city, so the choice of area depends more on your plan than on the actual distance. The historic centre, inside the walls, is where most of the apartment and guesthouse options are concentrated. Staying there lets you walk to the cathedral, the convent of Santa Teresa or the plaza del Mercado Chico without worrying about the car. The downside is that the streets are cobbled and sloping, and parking is usually difficult and expensive. If you arrive by train or bus and don't plan to drive, this is your best option. Outside the walls, towards the station area or the barrio de San Nicolás, you'll find more modern hotels with parking, ten or fifteen minutes' walk from the centre. They're a good alternative if you're travelling by car or if you prefer peace and quiet at night, although you'll lose the feeling of being literally right next to the monuments.

The main difference between one area and another is noise and access. Inside the walls, at night, the atmosphere is livelier in summer and at weekends, but also busier. The streets near the puerta del Alcázar or the Arco de la Cárcel are the busiest. If you're looking for silence, look for accommodation in the upper part, near the convent of la Encarnación, or on the side streets facing the walls. Outside, the southern area, towards the parque de San Antonio, is residential and very quiet, with good tapas restaurants. The northern area, near the train station, is functional and somewhat uglier, but prices tend to be lower and there are good connections to the centre.

As for price, the general rule is that the months of July and August are the most expensive, along with the December long weekends and Easter. If you can, travel in May, June or September: the weather is pleasant and prices drop quite a bit. Weekends also go up, because it's a typical getaway destination. To get there, the most comfortable option is the high-speed train from Madrid (about 90 minutes) or the bus, which takes a little longer but leaves you in the centre. Once there, everything is done on foot; the historic centre is small and pedestrianised. If you stay outside the walls, the city bus is enough, but don't expect great frequency. Before booking, check whether the accommodation has a lift (many old buildings don't), whether the price includes breakfast and whether cancellation is flexible, because in Ávila the weather can change quickly and you won't want to lose money if you decide not to go.