Here’s a guide to the must-see attractions and activities in Soria – an often-overlooked gem in Spain. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Madrid or Bilbao, or even a longer road trip through Spain, these are the places you definitely shouldn’t miss.

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Top Things to see in Soria, Spain

Where is Soria

Soria is a province in the autonomous community of Castile and León, located in the northern part of Spain. It borders the Spanish provinces of La Rioja, Zaragoza, Guadalajara, Segovia, and Burgos. The closest capital cities are Zaragoza (160 km / 99 miles), Madrid (232 km / 144 miles), and Bilbao (230 km / 143 miles). The capital city of the province is also called Soria.

Is Soria worth visiting?

Soria is one of the most underrated places in Spain and is absolutely worth visiting. It is one of the lesser-known provinces in the country for international travelers, making it a hidden gem easy to visit on a weekend getaway from Madrid. Soria is a fantastic destination for history lovers, thanks to its impressive landmarks, secret villages, and secret museums you’ve likely never heard of.

Soria is perfect for those who have already seen most of Spain’s popular landmarks and are seeking less-traveled spots. The climate also makes Soria an attractive destination, except during the winter months (if you don’t enjoy the cold). Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), though the average typically ranges between 0°C and +6°C (32°F to 43°F). However, during the summer, the region is a great option to escape the intense heat of Eastern and Southern Spain. Additionally, you’ll avoid the overcrowding that comes with peak tourist season in Spain.

What is Soria known for

Soria is renowned worldwide for the heroic resistance of Numantia against the Roman Empire. After 13 months of siege, the Numantians chose to set fire to their city rather than surrender it to the Romans. In addition to its historical significance, Soria is famous for its natural wonders, which attract nature lovers from all over Spain.

Notable destinations include Laguna Negra de Urbión and the Cañón del Río Lobos, both of which offer stunning landscapes. Beyond its unique landmarks, Soria has produced several famous Spaniards, such as Fray Tomás de Berlanga, advisor to the Spanish crown and the discoverer of the Galápagos Islands. The region has also inspired numerous writers and poets, including Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, Gerardo Diego, and Antonio Machado.

Where to stay in Soria

Some of my favorite places to stay in Soria are Hotel & Spa Convento San Francisco and Hotel Leonor Mirón. I really want to stay at Hotel Don Marcos next time I visit, but you can explore a wide range of accommodations in the city or its surroundings using the map below.

Staying in the city is perfect if you plan to dine out, as there are plenty of restaurants nearby. However, during one of our recent visits to Soria, we were traveling with kids, and Spanish hotels don’t always offer family rooms. While solo travelers and couples will find it easier to book hotels in the city, we opted for a lovely apartment just outside Soria. We had no trouble visiting or parking in the city, as there’s minimal traffic. Even if street parking wasn’t available, local parking lots were always an option.

Best Places to Visit in Soria

Here are some of the most unique places to visit in Soria. You’ll need at least 2-3 days to explore them fully. We didn’t do much hiking on this trip, except for Laguna Negra de Urbión, which is one of the most iconic landmarks. A few days certainly isn’t enough to see everything the area has to offer, and I’m definitely looking forward to returning to explore more of its beautiful nature next time.

1. Numancia Archaeological Site in Garray

Visiting Numancia

Located just 8 km from the city of Soria, the Numancia Archaeological Site is one of Spain’s most impressive ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the Roman-Celtiberian wars. Numancia remains one of the most legendary names in the military history of the Roman Empire.

In 133 B.C., it was a Celtiberian settlement embroiled in ongoing conflict with Rome, which had begun in 153 B.C. However, it is the town’s heroic resistance that secured its place in history. After 13 months of siege, the Numantians chose to set their city on fire rather than surrender it to the Romans. Even today, in modern Spanish, the term “la defensa numantina” is used to describe a tenacious defense of one’s position, often under desperate conditions.

The Numancia Archaeological Site is located atop a hill, surrounded by the scenic rural landscapes of the Soria region. Visitors can purchase and scan an audioguide to explore the ruins at their own pace. I particularly enjoyed the reconstructions of ancient Roman and Celtiberian houses. Note that the Numancia Archaeological Site is closed on Mondays and Sunday evenings, while on Tuesdays, admission is free.

Other Roman Ruins in Soria

History enthusiasts should not miss visiting a few other unique sites in Soria: Villa Romana La Dehesa, the Tiermes Archaeological Site, and the Uxama Archaeological Site. During my trip, we only had time to stop at Villa Romana La Dehesa, located 23 km from the city of Soria.

The Tiermes Archaeological Site remains on my bucket list. In Roman times, it was allied with Numantia during the Roman-Celtiberian Wars. Historians suggest that Tiermes survived for several years after the tragic siege of Numantia, but eventually became part of the Clunia region. The archaeological site of Clunia (or Clunia Sulpicia) is located in Peñalba de Castro, Burgos, about a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Soria.

Another spot you might love is The Arch of Medinacelli, an easy stop on any road trip between Madrid and Barcelona. It is the only triple Roman arch still standing on the entire Iberian Peninsula. The arch measures around 13 meters long, 2 meters wide, and 8 meters tall. Located at the top of a hill, it offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding region. We didn’t stop in Medinacelli this time, as we had already visited The Arch of Medinacelli during a previous road trip around Madrid.

2. Laguna Negra de Urbion Natural Park

Laguna Negra de Urbión is one of the top destinations in Soria for nature lovers. Upon arriving at the National Park, you must leave your car in the parking lot (which costs 4 euros) and either take the bus to the lagoon (for 1.50 euros) or follow the 2.2-km-long Senda de Bosque trail through the local forest. We chose the latter and loved it. This hike has now made it to my list of the top Spanish hikes. The Laguna Negra de Urbión Natural Park also offers other trails, including the route to Urbión Peak (2,228 meters), one of the highest points in the Iberian Mountain Range.

3. The city of Soria

Although it was not my first time in the city of Soria, I had never had the chance to explore its local landmarks before. As I’ve already confessed to you, this time Soria has completely exceeded my initial expectations. I truly regret never having taken a weekend getaway to Soria before.

Parque la Dehesa

First of all, the local central park, Parque La Dehesa, is amazing, filled with refreshing greenery, including 127 types of trees and shrubs.

Los Arcos de San Juan de Duero

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Soria is Los Arcos de San Juan de Duero, the impressive arches of a medieval monastery. Dating back to the 12th century, this stunning site features a unique blend of Romanesque and Moorish architectural styles.

Ermita de San Saturio

My biggest surprise in the city of Soria was our evening walk along the Duero River to visit the local cave church, Ermita de San Saturio. We parked the car at Parking Acceso Ermita San Saturio and walked for 15 minutes along the river toward the cave church at sunset. It was an easy walk, but the area was so beautiful and peaceful. We saw many locals renting small boats, jogging, or having picnics.

Iglesia de Santo Domingo

Iglesia de Santo Domingo, or the Church of Saint Dominic, is a Romanesque Roman Catholic church in Soria. Originally built in the 12th century, only its tower has survived to the present day. In 1556, the Church of Saint Dominic became part of the Dominican monastery.

4. Catalañazor & Charming Villages of Soria

If you love exploring hidden, ancient villages in Spain, Catañazor will quickly become one of your favorite destinations in Soria. This quaint town will transport you back to the Middle Ages. Some believe the name Catañazor originates from the Arabic Qal’at an-Nusur, meaning “the castle of vultures.”

After strolling down the main street, Calle Real, be sure to visit the ruins of the local castle, Castillo de los Padilla. If you have extra time around Catañazor, don’t miss one of the most beautiful natural spots in Soria, La Fuentona de Muriel.

El Burgo de Osma

Officially, El Burgo de Osma is considered the most beautiful small town in Soria. However, it’s difficult for me to recommend it, as my experience turned out to be disappointing. Our visit in August coincided with local celebrations, and the town was chaotic, with no available parking. Moreover, the streets were quite dirty.

We decided to have lunch at Restaurante Casa Marcelino, but after waiting for 30 minutes without anyone approaching us with a menu, we left. If we had a whole week to explore the small towns of Soria, it might not have been such a big deal. However, wasting time in El Burgo de Osma meant missing the opportunity to visit other places instead.

More small towns to visit in Soria

If you’re a fan of charming small towns in Spain, you can add more local villages to your Soria itinerary, including Vinuesa, San Esteban de Gormaz, Morón de Almazán, Rello, Medinaceli, Yanguas, and Fuentebella.

5. Parque Natural del Cañon del Rio Lobos

Parque Natural del Cañón del Río Lobos is a natural park in Soria, famous for its hiking trails, the San Bartolomé Chapel, and a population of griffon vultures. On this visit, we only explored the local viewpoint, Mirador de Las Gullurias, to enjoy the stunning landscapes. I look forward to hiking the trails on my next trip to Soria.

6. Bosque Magico

Bosque Mágico (or the Magical Forest) is a fantastic place to visit in Spain with kids. This enchanting forest is located near the small town of San Leonardo de Yagüe. Entrance is free, and you can explore many tiny houses of fairies and gnomes. It was definitely a highlight for my girls.

After visiting Bosque Mágico, we couldn’t miss the chance to try torreznos, the most typical dish of Soria, in San Leonardo de Yagüe. Torrezno is a crunchy bacon snack made from pork belly. One of the local bars, Bar El Hogar, is known for serving some of the best torreznos in Soria.

7. Berlanga de Duero

Berlanga del Duero is considered one of the prettiest small towns in the Soria region, renowned for its beautiful medieval architecture and castle. One of the most unique sights nearby is the Ermita de San Baudelio, a small chapel featuring Pre-Romanesque architecture and Mozarabic elements.

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