If you travel to this incredible city, you can’t miss our guide to what to see and do in Ávila, with expert tips from our guides.
Enjoy these Activities in Ávila
Ávila Cathedral
The Ávila Cathedral, a gem of Spanish Gothic, is not only impressive for its architecture, but also for the opportunities it offers to enjoy its splendour for free. Visitors can access the cathedral at no cost during specific opening hours.
Free Admission Conditions
The Ávila Cathedral offers a free time slot for all visitors on non‑holiday Tuesdays and Wednesdays, between 08:30 and 09:30. To take advantage of this free visit, you just need to go to the ticket office during that time.
In addition, children under 12 can enter free of charge at any time during the usual tourist opening hours, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
Residents of Ávila also enjoy free admission throughout the year. To do so, they must present proof of residence (e.g. national ID – DNI – or certificate of registration).
People with a disability greater than 64% are entitled to free admission, including one companion. It is essential to prove the degree of disability with official documentation.
Finally, priests can enter freely at any time of the year by presenting their clergy card as proof.
Visiting the Walls of Ávila is a unique experience that offers the chance to explore one of the most impressive defensive structures in Spain. This iconic monument, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches for 2,516 metres and has 87 towers and 9 gates, making it one of the best‑preserved urban walled enclosures in Europe.
Free Admission Conditions
The climb up to the wall‑walk (adarve) of the Walls is paid (general ticket €8; reduced €5). It is free on Tuesdays from 14:00 to 16:00 (except on public holidays and their eves) and for certain groups, with accreditation: children under 12, people with disabilities, registered residents of Ávila city and province, students at the Police Academy and university students in the city, and long‑term unemployed visitors.
Opening Hours
Visiting hours vary depending on the season (last entry is 45 minutes before closing):
| Season | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Winter (25 October – 21 March) | Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00 | Closed on Mondays |
| From 24 March to 30 June | Every day: 10:00 – 20:00 |
| Summer (1 July – 31 August) | Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:00 – 15:00 and 17:00 – 23:00 | Wed and Thu: 10:00 – 15:00 and 17:00 – 21:00 |
| From 1 September to 29 October | Every day: 10:00 – 20:00 |
Note: there is no longer free admission during the “last hour”.
Convent of Saint Teresa
Visiting the Convent of Saint Teresa in Ávila is an enriching experience. The complex was inaugurated in 1636 on the site of the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Jesus; the Saint’s first foundation in the city was the Convent of San José (1562). It is a place of devotion, history and culture.
Free Admission Conditions
The church and the reliquary room are free to enter during their opening hours. The Santa Teresa Museum is paid and has specific opening times; check the current prices and schedules before your visit.
Paid Areas
Outside the free areas mentioned above, the Santa Teresa Museum charges an admission fee.
At the Convent of Saint Teresa, you will not only be able to admire the architecture, but also enjoy the peace and atmosphere that this sacred space offers. The visit is an ideal way to connect with the history of Spanish mysticism and the life of Saint Teresa of Jesus.
Basilica of San Vicente
The Basilica of San Vicente is one of Ávila’s most emblematic monuments, famous for its impressive Romanesque architecture. You can visit at different times, with general and reduced tickets, and free entry for certain groups.
Free Admission Conditions
General admission €3; reduced €2.20. Free for children under 12 (accompanied), priests and residents of Ávila.
Visiting Hours
Outside liturgical needs, the basilica follows tourist visiting hours published by the parish itself. We recommend checking the updated timetable before you go.
Church of San Pedro
The Church of San Pedro, a remarkable example of Romanesque style in Ávila, offers a rewarding experience for those who wish to explore its architecture and art at no cost. This 12th‑century church is located in the heart of the city and is famous for its impressive apse and bell tower, which rise majestically over the skyline.
Free Admission Conditions
Admission to the Church of San Pedro is free. Bear in mind that tourist access is subject to religious services.
Specific Times
There is no fixed tourist timetable; Mass is usually celebrated at 12:00 and 20:00 (on weekdays and public holidays). It is advisable to avoid these times if you wish to visit as a tourist.
Also remember that special events or feast days may alter these times, so it is advisable to check availability before your visit.
Plaza del Mercado Chico
The Plaza del Mercado Chico is the heart of Ávila, a place where history and local life intertwine. This space is perfect for strolling and enjoying the surrounding medieval architecture, including the Town Hall and the church of San Juan Bautista.
Free Activities
In the square you can enjoy various activities and cultural events throughout the year, many of which are free. For example, during local festivities, concerts and fairs are organised that do not require any kind of admission fee.
Free Access Conditions
Generally, access to the square and to the activities held there is free of charge. However, some specific events, such as temporary exhibitions or activities organised by the city council, may include parts that require a paid ticket. It is advisable to check the city’s cultural agenda to find out the dates and times when these activities take place.
Access Hours
The square is open every day of the year, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without time restrictions. Free activities are usually scheduled at weekends and on public holidays, so try to visit on those dates to make the most of your experience.
Visitor Reception Centre (Casa de las Carnicerías)
The Visitor Reception Centre (Casa de las Carnicerías) is the main tourist information point and one of the access points to the wall‑walk (adarve) of the walls. Here you can get maps, ask questions and buy tickets for different sites.
Useful Information
There is no entrance fee for this service. Opening hours: summer 9:00–20:00 and winter 9:00–18:00.
Visiting Hours
Always confirm the timetable in high season, on public holidays or during special events, as it may vary.
The Visitor Reception Centre is an essential starting point for discovering the city’s history and planning your climb up to the wall‑walk.
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* The information on prices, times and access conditions is current as of November 2025 according to official sources. This data may change at any time due to public holidays, works or regulatory changes. Always check the official websites or phone numbers of each place before your visit.
