Extremadura is Spain's westernmost autonomous community, bordering Portugal, and one of Europe's best-preserved landscapes of Roman ruins, medieval castles, and vast dehesa oak woodlands. Home to the UNESCO-listed city of Cáceres, the Roman theatre of Mérida, and some of Iberia's finest jamón ibérico, the region rewards travellers seeking authentic Spain without the tourist crowds.
Extremadura is best explored by rental car — the region is large, rural areas are poorly served by public transport, and key attractions like Monfragüe National Park and the Jerte Valley have little to no bus service. Trains connect Madrid to Cáceres and Badajoz. Intercity buses run between major towns. Driving within cities is challenging due to narrow streets; park at the outskirts and walk.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Do not attempt to drive into Cáceres old city — parking is banned for non-residents. Use Parking Los Caleros on Avenida de España (€1.20/hr) and walk up
Mérida city centre is compact — park at the free Avenida de Extremadura lot and walk to all Roman sites in 30 minutes
Fuel is cheapest at Carrefour and Repsol petrol stations on the outskirts of Badajoz and Cáceres
The A-5 and A-66 toll-free motorways are fast and well-maintained for driving between cities
If travelling without a car, base yourself in Mérida for Roman sites and Cáceres for the medieval old city — both served by trains from Madrid