Getting Around
Buses connect all the major towns and cities. While they tend to be slower and run less frequently than trains they can be a great way to enjoy the landscape and to meet local people. In larger cities like Cáceres and Mérida, you can also rely on local buses or taxis but you're likely to find that the historic centres are invariably conveniently compact.
Extremaduran cities and towns are imminently more walkable than the bustling metropolises you'll find elsewhere. And the countryside is, of course, a hiker's paradise!
Flying
If you’re flying to Extremadura, you’ll arrive at Badajoz Airport, the region’s sole airport. Located in the municipality of Talavera la Real, it’s just 14 kilometers from the city center. Badajoz offers regular flights to Madrid and Barcelona, with additional routes to other cities during certain times of the year. Access from Madrid is often easier and cheaper.
Train or Bus
The best way to reach Extremadura is by train or bus from Madrid, both of which offer frequent services. The high-speed AVE trains from Madrid to Cáceres (3hrs) and Badajoz (4hrs) offer a comfortable, speedy and convenient ride. If you’re travelling to smaller towns, long-distance buses (like those from ALSA) are a convenient option, with routes connecting Madrid to Cáceres, Mérida, Trujillo, Badajoz and Plasencia.
Car Rental
Once in Extremadura, the most flexible way to travel around is by car. Renting a car allows you to explore the region’s remote landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites at your own pace. Roads are generally in good condition, and driving gives you access to less touristy spots like the wild steppes and dehesa woodlands.