If you’re studying in Segovia, you already know the city is packed with history. But just 40 km away lies a destination that feels like a step even further back in time: Pedraza. Recognized as one of Los Pueblos Más Bonitos de España, this tiny walled village offers students and visitors a mix of culture, gastronomy, and pure medieval magic.

It’s not just a village—it’s an experience.

Stepping Through the Walls of Time

Pedraza is unique because it has only one entrance: the Puerta de la Villa, a massive medieval stone gate that sets the tone from the very first moment. Passing through it, you’ll find yourself wandering cobblestone streets lined with stone houses, wooden balconies, and flower pots spilling over with color. The silence here is part of its charm—it feels like time has stopped.

Highlights You Can’t Miss

1. Plaza Mayor

The heart of Pedraza is its Plaza Mayor, one of the most charming medieval squares in Spain. Its irregular shape, framed by noble houses and rustic balconies, makes it feel intimate and alive. Grab a coffee at one of the cafés, sit on a terrace, and soak in the slow rhythm of life.

2. Pedraza Castle

Originally built in the 13th century and later restored, the castle is one of the village’s biggest attractions. It belonged to the Zuloaga family, and today houses a museum dedicated to the famous painter Ignacio Zuloaga. Inside, you’ll see his works, collections, and even parts of the castle preserved in their original state. From the towers, you get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Candle Night (La Noche de las Velas)

Every July, Pedraza becomes world-famous for its Noche de las Velas. The entire village is illuminated by tens of thousands of candles, with all artificial lights turned off. Add in live classical music concerts in the square, and the result is a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere. Tip for students: tickets and spaces fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

4. Puerta de la Villa & the Jail Museum

Besides being the only entrance, the Puerta de la Villa is home to Pedraza’s old jail, now turned into a small museum. You can explore the dungeons, learn about medieval justice, and imagine what life was like for prisoners centuries ago.

5. Churches & Chapels

Pedraza is dotted with religious monuments, including the Church of San Juan Bautista, located right in Plaza Mayor. Its Romanesque origins and later Gothic additions make it worth a visit—even if you’re not a history buff, the architecture is stunning.

Flavors of Pedraza

No trip is complete without food, and Pedraza doesn’t disappoint. This is Segovian cuisine at its finest.

• Cordero asado (roast lamb) is the star dish, slow-cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens.
  
• For a lighter option, try judiones de la Granja (giant white beans stew).
  
• Finish with Ponche Segoviano, a delicious almond and custard cake layered with marzipan.
  

Tip for students: Pedraza’s restaurants can be pricey, but the portions are big. Share a dish with friends—it’s authentic, filling, and affordable when split.

Nature Beyond the Walls

Pedraza isn’t just about medieval streets and castles. It’s surrounded by stunning countryside, perfect for a day of hiking or picnicking. Trails nearby will lead you to rolling hills, quiet streams, and lookout points where you can see the full beauty of Castilla y León.

Practical Tips

• How to Get There:
  
  Pedraza is about 40 km from Segovia (roughly a 40-minute drive). Buses run occasionally, but the easiest way is by carpooling with friends.
  
• Budget-Friendly Visit:
  
  Entry to the village is free. Museums like the jail and the castle have small fees (discounts often available for students).
  
• Best Time to Visit:
  
  • July: for Candle Night (but expect crowds).
    
  • Autumn: for quieter, cooler trips with golden countryside views.
    
  • Winter: magical if you catch it with snow.
    
• Photography Lovers:
  
  Pedraza is a dream for Instagram-worthy shots. The light at sunset in Plaza Mayor is unforgettable.
  

Why Pedraza Belongs on Your Bucket List

Pedraza combines everything students look for in a trip: history, food, culture, and great photo spots—all just a short journey from Segovia. It’s the perfect way to balance study stress with a dose of medieval magic.

👉 Ready to plan your visit?