Cuenca

Written by Celine Fournier, David Garcia, Javier Garcia
31/08/2025
A stunning aerial view of Piran, Slovenia, showcasing the picturesque harbor and historic architecture under a bright summer sky.
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Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Spain's Castilla-La Mancha region, is a captivating destination renowned for its dramatic 'Hanging Houses' clinging to cliff edges above river gorges. This city offers a unique blend of medieval history, impressive natural landscapes, and a surprisingly vibrant abstract art scene.

The heart of Cuenca's social life centers around the Plaza Mayor in the old town, where numerous traditional tabernas and restaurants offer outdoor seating. Visitors can experience authentic local culture while enjoying regional cuisine and wines in this central hub.

Top 8 Things to do in Cuenca

Cuenca offers a range of engaging activities, from exploring historical cliff-hanging architecture and abstract art to discovering subterranean passages and enjoying panoramic natural viewpoints.

1. Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses)

Discover the iconic Hanging Houses, medieval structures that seemingly defy gravity as they cling to the cliff edge above the Huécar River gorge. Walking by them, you gain a unique perspective on traditional Cuencan architecture. One of these houses is home to the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art. These houses offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially when illuminated at night.

Cost: Free to view from the exterior. Entrance to the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art, located within one of the houses, has its own admission fee.

Transport: These houses are a central feature of the old town and are easily walkable from Plaza Mayor. From Cuenca's Fernando Zóbel train station, you can take bus line 1 to Plaza Mayor. From the main bus station, bus line 1 or 6 will take you to the Hurtado de Mendoza stop, requiring a short walk afterwards.

2. Cuenca Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María y San Julián)

Step into Cuenca's impressive Gothic Cathedral, originally built on the site of a mosque. You will find a fascinating blend of architectural styles, including its striking neo-Gothic facade, Renaissance doorways, a beautifully crafted wooden ceiling in the chapter house, and 20th-century abstract stained-glass windows. An audio guide provides rich historical and artistic context to your visit.

Cost: A single ticket for the Cathedral is €5.50. For a more comprehensive experience, a full ticket including the Cathedral, Triforium, Treasure Museum, and the Church of San Pedro plus its tower, costs €10.50 (reduced to €9.50 for seniors or students).

Transport: The Cathedral is centrally located in Plaza Mayor within the old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the historic center.

3. Museo de Arte Abstracto Español (Museum of Spanish Abstract Art)

Immerse yourself in contemporary Spanish art at this unique museum, situated inside one of the famous Casas Colgadas. The museum houses an important collection of abstract paintings and sculptures by renowned Spanish artists from the 1950s and 60s, such as Millares, Chillida, and Tàpies. Its setting within a medieval hanging house, with balconies overlooking the Huécar gorge, creates a compelling contrast between ancient architecture and modern art.

Cost: Variable, often included in combined passes or purchased on site.

Transport: The museum is located within the Casas Colgadas, in the heart of Cuenca's historic center, and is easily reached by walking.

4. Puente de San Pablo (San Pablo Bridge)

Cross the striking San Pablo Bridge, a pedestrian iron and wood structure that replaced an older 16th-century bridge. From here, you are treated to breathtaking, unobstructed views of the iconic Casas Colgadas clinging to the cliffs, the old town's rooftops, and the dramatic Huécar gorge below. The bridge connects the historic center with the Parador de Cuenca, a hotel converted from a former convent.

Cost: Free.

Transport: The bridge is a short, scenic walk from Plaza Mayor and other central points in the old town.

5. Mirador del Cerro del Socorro

Journey to the Mirador del Cerro del Socorro for an expansive panoramic vista of Cuenca. This viewpoint, marked by a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, offers an unrivaled perspective of the entire city, including its famous Hanging Houses, the Cathedral, and the winding river gorges. It is a perfect spot to appreciate Cuenca's dramatic setting and capture stunning photographs.

Cost: Free.

Transport: You can drive up to the viewpoint via a forest track that branches off the Cuenca to Palomera road. Alternatively, a rewarding, moderate hike starting behind the Parador Nacional de Turismo (former San Pablo Convent) takes approximately 20 minutes. Public bus line L1 has a stop 'Castillo' nearby, about a minute's walk.

6. Túneles de Cuenca (Underground Tunnels)

Explore the historical underground tunnels, such as the Túnel de Alfonso VIII or Calderón de la Barca, which served as air-raid shelters during the Spanish Civil War. A guided tour provides insight into their construction, strategic importance, and the captivating legends associated with Cuenca's subterranean network. It offers a unique and engaging historical experience.

Cost: General admission is €3.50, with theatrical visits priced at €5.00. Reduced rates are available for seniors and groups. Tickets are available at the Municipal Tourist Office on Alfonso VIII street.

Transport: The tunnels are located within the historic center, on Alfonso VIII street, and are easily walkable from Plaza Mayor.

7. Torre de Mangana

Observe the Torre de Mangana, a distinctive medieval clock tower that stands as a symbol of Cuenca. Originally part of an Arab fortress from the 16th century, its architecture reflects centuries of history and numerous remodels. While interior access is not typically available, admiring its exterior and the surrounding Plaza de Mangana offers a clear sense of the city's ancient defenses and panoramic views over the cityscape.

Cost: Free to view from the exterior. Interior access is not generally permitted.

Transport: Located in Plaza de Mangana, the tower is easily accessible on foot within the historic center. An elevator is available from the Alfonso VIII parking area to the upper city for easier access.

8. Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City)

Venture outside the city to the Ciudad Encantada, a unique natural park where millennia of erosion have sculpted limestone rocks into fantastical shapes resembling animals, objects, and even people. Walking through its well-marked trails, you will discover a surreal and captivating landscape. It's an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking an otherworldly experience.

Cost: Entry fee is typically around €5-6 per person for self-guided exploration. Organized tours from Cuenca, including transport and entry, usually range from €30-€50.

Transport: The Enchanted City is approximately 30 km from Cuenca, a drive of about 40 minutes. You will need a car or can book an organized tour, as direct public transport is not available.

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