Salamanca’s sandstone center runs from Plaza Mayor to the historic university and the joined Old and New Cathedrals. Most monuments are close together. A room by the rail or bus station adds a walk.
Plaza Mayor is the city’s grand square and an evening meeting point. Rúa Mayor leads south to the shell-covered Casa de las Conchas and La Clerecía. The streets around the square have restaurants and bars, so ask about the street if you need a quiet night.
The university’s historic façade, the New Cathedral and the Romanesque Old Cathedral stand together farther south. Walk on toward the Tormes and the Roman Bridge for a view back to the towers. This part of town is pedestrian and cobbled, which matters if you arrive with luggage.
San Vicente is west of the square near the bus station. The main rail station is northeast of the center, and bus 1 runs to Plaza Poeta Iglesias beside Plaza Mayor. Either side works for an early departure. Don’t assume the station is by the cathedral.
Salamanca has cool winter nights and warm summer afternoons. July highs reach the upper 80s °F, and January nights at the airport average around freezing. Spring and early autumn are best for long walks through the old streets.