Alcala De Henares

Alcalá de Henares is a city in central Spain, northeast of Madrid. It’s known for the University of Alcalá, which occupies 16th-century buildings in the old town. These include the Paraninfo, a hall with an intricately patterned Mudejar ceiling, where the King of Spain presents the annual Cervantes literary prize. Nearby, the Cervantes Birthplace Museum is the former home of the celebrated author of “Don Quixote.”
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Top places to visit

4.5
(10)
Mentioned on 
Museums
Specialty Museums
Alcalá de Henares, located in central Spain just northeast of Madrid, is a city steeped in history and culture. The University of Alcalá, housed in 16th-century buildings within the old town, is a prominent feature known for its stunning architecture and as the venue for the annual Cervantes literary prize presentation by the King of Spain.
4.4
(757)
Mentioned on 
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Plaza de Cervantes is a charming urban square located at the divide of old and new Alcala. It features a grand monument honoring the author of 'Don Quixote,' as well as beautiful gardens and an ornate gazebo. The square is fortified by low buildings, creating a cozy and quiet atmosphere with minimal traffic. Visitors can climb 109 steps to the top of the Torre de Santa Maria for stunning views of the city and its evolution.
28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, SpainTips and more reviews for Pl. de Cervantes
4.6
(5066)
4.4
(359)
Mentioned on 
Archaeological museum
Museums
The Regional Archaeological Museum of Madrid, located in an old convent, houses exhibits from prehistoric times to the late 17th century, including Roman mosaics and local findings. As one of three archaeological museums in the area, it provides a journey through different eras. The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring frescoes in its domes from the Renaissance period. The museum also offers didactic activities for both children and adults and features remarkable temporary exhibitions on its patio.
A great museum to visit, with much information on the archeological past of the area. Admission is free, and the exhibit is very well explained and is quite thorough. I originally thought the place was geared towards kids but it isn't so. There are many Roman mosaics on display and they had a special exhibit on dinosaurs when I visited. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it if you want to learn about the region between the Paleo era and today.
Guillaume S — Google review
Such a beautiful display of local anthropological finds! Wide range from tools and jewelry to giant mosaics and paleontological artifacts. The entry is free and the staff was very helpful. You’re given a map and it’s very difficult to get lost :) highly recommended!
Claudia — Google review
Super interesting museum,with not as big exhibition but will well picked pieces so worth seeing. The building in which is the museum is so pretty by itself. Free entrance,and I was there on Saturday -no crowd . Super friendly staff as well.
Mina M — Google review
Very interesting, especially for those who enjoy this kind of topic. We didn’t expect it at all — the process is so well organized that there are no queues, and you don’t waste time waiting. Highly recommend!
Марина Л — Google review
Very nice antropo-zoolo museum,a lot of pieces of History from different periods and A Dragon's expo with Dinosaurs🦖 remains. Free if charge it was . ps Versus the Museum is a Church/Monastery with Amazing 🎨.
Baston B — Google review
Stumbled upon on accident and it was lovely. For non Spanish readers, make sure you have your phone fully charged for your translation app. Well planned layout and we all learned quite a bit!
Karen ( — Google review
One of three archaeological museums in the area. On itself a trip throughout the ages, from Prehistory till the late 17th Century. The Renaissance building that contains it, with its frescoes in the domes, is a work of art on its own right. It offers didactic activities for children and adults alike, and truly remarkable temporary exhibitions in its patio every now and then.
José S — Google review
Great regional museum it had a temporary exposition "La colina de los Tigres Dientes de Sable". We took the guided tour the woman was really good explaining to kids.
Armand H — Google review
Pl. de las Bernardas, s/n, 28802 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spainhttp://marpa.madrid/+34 918 79 66 66Tips and more reviews for Regional Archaeological Museum of Madrid
4.5
(10822)
4.2
(1047)
Mentioned on 
Museum
Historical place museum
Specialty Museums
The Cervantes Birthplace Museum is located in Alcala de Henares, a World Heritage City known for its historical center and Plaza de Cervantes. The museum is situated in the family home of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of 'Don Quixote.' Visitors can explore reconstructed period interiors and view first editions of his works.
So nice to see his house in such a preserved state, and to have a glimpse into his way of life,and life in that era in general. Most of all it’s located in the old part of Alcalá which is completely worth visiting due to its rich history and heritage. And entrance is free.
Mina M — Google review
Free entry into a walk through the early life of a famous Spanish writer. A look back at a age past gone.
Raj B — Google review
Definitely worth stopping in to learn about one of Spain’s greatest writers, Miguel de Cervantes. The staff was knowledgeable, and the house was thoughtfully arranged and well presented.
Melanie L — Google review
Free yes free. Self guided tour of the home of the author of Man of La Mancha. The street it’s located on is loaded with little shops and cafes. It not a heavy tourist area so the crowds were manageable It’s worth coming here for a visit
Paul H — Google review
Amazing to visit a house so old that raised Cervantes! Very well preserved and organised! Free entrance! And there are statues of Don Quixote and Sancho in front of the house! Loved it!
Prashanti K — Google review
Must see for Cervantes fans! His birthplace and family home. Nicely maintained. Furnished in the style of the 16th century. Entrance was free.
Marcus J — Google review
Although the museum is not that big, it’s nice to see the birth place of the most famous Spanish writer, Miguel de Cervantes. It’s also very interesting to see what the place used to look like from the exhibits. If you are in the area, it’s definitely worth visiting.
Will C — Google review
In center of Alcalá you can find the Cervantes Birthplace house and museum. The entrance is free and you can learn and see how was the lifestyle at that time. Very interesting and a mandatory visit in Alcalá.
Rui A — Google review
4.4
(1668)
4.3
(133)
Mentioned on 
Temporarily Closed
History museum
Sights & Landmarks
Nestled in the charming city of Alcala de Henares, the Laredo Palace stands as a stunning testament to Spain's architectural diversity. Constructed between 1881 and 1884 by architect Manuel Jose de Laredo, this extravagant palace showcases an eclectic mix of styles, prominently featuring neo-Mudejar elements that echo Moorish influences. With its ornate ceilings and regal portraits adorning the walls, visitors are transported back in time to experience the grandeur of a bygone era.
Magnificent building from the 10th century. We did not enter the exhibition inside of the building since the interior seemed very dark during day time. However the exterior already show detailed concerns of the architect during the creation. Worth a visit!
Sun C — Google review
Extraordinary building , unfortunately it was closed , I was disappointed when finding such an amazing architecture state of art building not open to the visitors !!!
Dr.Arafat M — Google review
Located quite close to the Railway station, this architectural gem, is one of the main features of this town you may see upon your arrival. Laredo’s Palace is a wonderful Neo-Mudéjar building with a romantic nineteenth-century backyard, built in a time where its own architectural style was already out of fashion. You can’t miss this beautiful oddity if you’re visiting Alcalá.
José S — Google review
Beautiful building, very old version of the Bible inside. Only 1 euro to enter. Not a long attraction, maybe 30 minutes
Scott ( — Google review
Really enjoyed the experience here. Seen the Bible in 5 volumes written in 4 languages. All the history of the kings and queens were amazing.
Shamim G — Google review
Laredo's Mansion is a beautiful Neomudejar building from the late 19-th century, situated halfway between Álcala's city center and the train station. As of March 2021, there are no guided tours. But you can visit the interior for €1, which must be paid in cash at the entrance. They don't have change, nor do they accept credit/debit cards. The building's current state of affairs is pretty sad. Many rooms as well as the garden are closed, probably due to the pandemic. The highlights are the medieval "Kings room", which features several royal portraits, and two other rooms with quirky Arab decorations and tiles. There are no written explanations of the rooms. Given that there's currently not that much to see, your visit shouldn't take more than 20 minutes. For €1, I think it's still worth it.
M H — Google review
It has a nice outer architecture, worth seeing it. Inside of it is actually cool but once you enter, you are allowed to see 2 rooms upstairs and few saloons in the ground floor, so not much to visit inside. There is no ticket actually, once you enter you give 1€ for the place and that's all, takes at most 30 mins. And we couldn't enter the garden, it was closed.
Ceren Ç — Google review
Beautiful small palace consisting of two floors which is full of history. A must see. Entrance fee is 1 euro donation. Definitely worth seeing
John C — Google review
P.º de la Estación, 10, 28807 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain+34 918 85 64 87Tips and more reviews for Palace of the Laredo

Top places to eat

1Indalo

4.3
(9347)
3.9
(1467)
Mentioned on 
cheap
Tapas bar
Bar
Indalo, a tapas bar in Alcala de Henares, is a seemingly modest restaurant that can accommodate a large number of patrons. Despite its unassuming appearance, it has attracted the attention of the King of Spain during his visits to the city. Surprisingly, this establishment offers reasonably priced meals that are both satisfying and filling.
Nice place to have some tapas. Food was good. Prices were excellent. They have my favorite: freshly squeezed orange juice. We went a group of 7 and enjoyed it. We ate outside because it was nice weather. The waiter was friendly and attentive.
Edwin M — Google review
A friend who lives in the town recommended this place. Good location, nice and clean interior. We are glad when we showed up because 10 minutes later the place was packed. Prices are very good and for some Tapas it includes the beer. ( even better) They have a good variety of Tapas and other items for those who do not like Tapas. Food in general was good it is nothing fancy. But it was very reasonable and would go back if I am in town. Service was ok, our waiter was very busy and no time to chat.
J S — Google review
Great tapas bar, great service and great drinks! Highly recommend it, best value for money so far.
Kah-Sin F — Google review
Good tapas. If you get a beer the tapas are cheap! They also have yummy salads! The tuna salad and the caramelized alcachofas with jamón were delicious. Outside seating and lots of tables inside.
Deborah L — Google review
Great food, huge portions and amazing value for money. Typical Spanish tapas bar
Anca — Google review
Great tapas and local beer. Nice atmosphere. Reasonable prices. Good service. Thank you!
Lyubomyr M — Google review
This place came highly recommended and the flavors were solid. This is a great introduction to the free tapas game here in the region of Madrid. Cold 🍻beers and tasty 🍷 wine made for a great date night.
Dietrich H — Google review
Long queue but worth the wait. Nice selection of tapas. Big servings. Good value for the money. Will come back again.
Dulce L — Google review
C. Libreros, 9, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spainhttp://www.indalotapas.com/Tips and more reviews for Indalo
4.4
(3322)
3.9
(419)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Restaurante Casino in Alcalá de Henares is a wonderful establishment that offers delicious cuisine and exceptional service. The staff is helpful and friendly, providing valuable suggestions on the menu selection and offering a wide range of fabulous wines. The ambiance of the restaurant is pleasant, making it an ideal place to enjoy your meal. Located in the picturesque Alcala city square, this lovely restaurant also features a charming terrace where you can relish your food while soaking in the beauty of Plaza Cervantes.
What a brilliant restaurant! Situated right on the town square, the beautifully restored building sets the perfect tone for a memorable dining experience. The service is top-notch, offering just the right balance of attention without being intrusive. The Russian Salad is creamy and fresh, while the artichoke hearts with jamón bring out an irresistible umami depth. The croquettes? Simply divine—creamy béchamel with the lightest crust that melts in your mouth. For something a little outside the Spanish norm, the tuna tataki with wakame salad is a must-try. One tip: book ahead! The demand is high, and the two-hour time allocation is strictly enforced, so be sure to savor every moment. To the restaurant—thank you for a fantastic lunch!
Beatriz M — Google review
This place is a fine dine spanish restaurant with amazing vibes and a fine selection of drinks. They have a great lunch spread with daily specials. The house wine, Rubera del duero, was excellent, and the food passed muster. The service does deserve a special mention, as the staff gave impeccable service with attention to detail.
Rajiv M — Google review
We absolutely loved our Saturday night dinner here. Started with a fabulous Negroni at the intimate bar before heading off to a great table in the middle of the restaurant. The starters were excellent though we perhaps ordered too many. Main courses were suckling pig - awesome and the squid ink risotto which my wife thought was a little too salty but it was right up my street! Looking forward to a return visit when we are near Alcala again.
Martyn J — Google review
07/10/2024 Let's make it simple. This is a place to never come back. 07/03/2024 I have visited this restaurant on two consecutive occasions, and in both, I want to make a special mention of the service provided by Sergio, a great host and knowledgeable about the house wines. My gratitude goes to him for the recommendations. The worst part is the kitchen. The prawn croquettes are worth mentioning, but the ham croquettes turn into a paste that sticks in the mouth. The artichokes were cold and fibrous, making them difficult to digest. The meat was overcooked and tough, indicating that the cut was not properly tempered. The "huevos estrellados" are an insult to the intelligence of any diner. Other dishes like the foie shavings, black rice, tuna tataki, and black rice are examples of minimal cooking or preparation. The ambiance is very pleasant, as always. It is a truly fantastic setting with decor befitting a great city like Alcalá de Henares. 02/09/2023 Very disappointed about the food, the cook temperature, dishes prepared and presentation and the worst the taste. Service is great, very professional staff but not for the result of the experience. Expensive spot for this type of food. The environment it's the greatest in town. My conclusion, the best was the wine and the foi. (Nothing cooked)
Erick M — Google review
We were amazed at how good the food was, how friendly and professional the staff were, and the entire experience felt like true fine dining. We were so surprised also by how cheap everything was- we shared wine and tapas (patatas bravas huge portion, jamon croquettes, shrimp garlic potatoes dish, fresh tomatoes salad which was the BEST tomatoes I’ve ever had) and the sirloin tips (juicy and tender came with potatoes) and the juniper fish which came with thinly sliced potatoes. And the apple tart! So good! They never let our bread plates empty and kept refilling our waters and cleaning off our table before the next dishes. All for 125 euros for 4 people seems like such a steal.
Rylie S — Google review
Lovely restaurant situated in the Alcala city square. Good service and nice ambiance to enjoy your food. Staffs are friendly
Rajneesh A — Google review
The best restaurant in the area. The deco is beautiful. The service on point. The food delicious. I recommend the tuna.
Kiat N — Google review
Maybe I expect too much as I read a lot comments recommended before I went here, after the lunch I felt a little bit gaps. But in fact I would say that the food here is still good, still recommend.
Raynor L — Google review
4.2
(1856)
3.7
(540)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
La Cúpula is a restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, varying from moderately priced to expensive. The service provided is excellent and the atmosphere it provides is unbeatable, as it is located in an ancient convent dating back to the 16th century. This exceptional dining experience takes place in an old church, which adds to its impressiveness.
Food was excellent. We had a 4y.o. with us and the waitstaff was as attentive and respectful to him as to the rest of us adults. Fabulous experience all the way!
Maureen B — Google review
We were recommended to visit this place and book a table in the garden. Such a lovely dinner and amazing experience - attentive staff, delicious food and warm and intimate atmosphere. Thank you
Ekaterina D — Google review
Old church turned into a restaurant, best experience in the center area
Victor V — Google review
Great restaurant. Very tasty steak. Many local cheses, tapas and hams. Very good vine.
Arkadiusz K — Google review
Great variety, moderate to expensive, fine service and an unbeateable environment: ancient convent from XVI century.
Ivan M — Google review
Wonderfull food. Wonderful deserts
Maria C — Google review
Regular food, the reviews are overrated. I ordered a “special” meat dish which was expensive and not good at all
J S — Google review
Great food and fantastic outdoors patio and sitting space.
Maria G — Google review
C. de Santiago, 18, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spainhttp://www.lacupularestaurante.com/+34 918 80 73 91Tips and more reviews for La Cúpula
4.7
(3055)
4.5
(394)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Ebano Gastro Experience is a stylish restaurant that offers innovative twists on traditional Spanish cuisine, along with wine pairings. The restaurant presents a vibrant festival of colors and flavors, blending classic Mediterranean dishes with contemporary updates and Asian fusion elements such as gyozas, dumplings, and oriental sauces. All meat is grilled in a charcoal oven, appealing to meat enthusiasts. Visitors can expect an extraordinary reflection of Cervantine gastronomy in a comfortable atmosphere adorned with simple and cozy decor.
AMAZING food! Reasonable prices and new tastes! The waiter (Marcos I think)was above helping and every time we went he was always suggesting the best plates! MUST VISIT! Went there three times in one week! Ps try the mango dessert!
Spy S — Google review
Elegant tapas bar and restaurant with friendly service and generous tapas. Reservations highly recommended for tables, but the bar is nice, too. Diverse menu and very good tintos de verano.
Peter L — Google review
This place truly provides great gastro experience. It was sooo good! Every single meal was just fantastic. Just be aware that the portions are too big and certainly not designed for one person. The only drawback was the service. It was difficult to get their attention and we ended up to be really thirsty since we couldn't order anything to drink for quite some time. Overall great experience.
Jan P — Google review
Awesome out of the way restaurant. Great service and delicious food. We had one of the very best salads. Menu del dia was awesome & reasonably priced.
Martin E — Google review
We had a spectacular dinner at Ébano. Their cuisine is innovative but down to earth, a fusion of traditional and modern elements. We had pig's ear turrón (half ration), pumpkin-and-parmesan croquetas (half ration), beetroot hummus, and the oxtail with boletus and truffles. Each of the four dishes was delicious. The portions are big. In hindsight, two starters and one main dish would have been enough for us. The only thing I would not order again is the oreo waffle for dessert. It did not seem homemade and felt "cheap". Notwithstanding, Ébano is a gastronomical highlight of Álcala de Henares. Expect to pay around €25 per person.
M H — Google review
We tried the menu of the day and we could not be more happy, huge amount of food with good quality and normal price. I will definitely coma back
Alberto P — Google review
Food was very good, mainly lit on fire! Service was ok, but mainly due to a language barrier.
Simon C — Google review
The portions are really big! The service and atmosphere are great.
Zmicier V — Google review
4.4
(1297)
4.3
(540)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Ki-Jote Restaurante Fusión is a hidden gem in Alcalá de Henares, celebrated for its unique blend of Japanese and Mediterranean flavors. Helmed by the talented chef Oskar Reguilon, who honed his skills at the renowned Kabuki, this izakaya offers a concise yet impressive menu that showcases creativity and technique in every dish. Diners rave about standout items like the award-winning udon curry with picadillo and delectable egg dishes featuring tuna.
A marvellous place. Many will ask, a Japanese restaurant in Alcalá de Henares? Well, yes! The food was just amazing. The ramen and miso soup in particular were an explosion of flavour. The best ones I’ve probably had. I would return just for those. The wagyu fat on top of the tuna, when melted, transformed the tuna into beef. Amazing. The white truffle with the butterfish is a must and is included in the Michelin guide. Overall we would recommend the €38 tasting menu which includes a lot of amazing food, desert and a shot. So much food indeed that we took one of the ramen as take way for dinner! The staff were just incredibly polite. We were mainly looked after Isa, who was so much fun to be with, and a great person. The wine is not included but like everywhere in Spain, it is incredibly affordable.
SAJ — Google review
Pretty good but didn't blow me away. The Nigiri de Atún flameado con grasa de Wagyu was good, and the kimchi gyoza. The japobravas felt like a rip off for what they were, even though it's true, they did taste good. I really went for sushi, and we got two rolls, which were decent, but I still left feeling like I wanted to go to a sushi place like, tomorrow. Anyway, pretty good place but I'm not eager to go back.
Hayden S — Google review
From hero to below zero. This was our favourite sushi place until a year, with friendly welcoming staff and amazing food… till it start to get worse a year ago, and now it is a disgrace. It started promising though, with a new menu and exciting looking dishes… but… Japobravas: the sauce is still good but cook forgot how to boil potatoes. Tataki with tuna: drowning in soy and salt Nigiri with salmon: it looked like they bought the cheapest smoked salmon and marinated it. Extremely dry. Tuna with wagyu butter: they threw salt over it so had to return, very unsavoury taste (it used to be my favourite together with the now unavailable pescado de mantequila) Uramaki with tuna: looked and tasted like canned tuna. Wine: was just bad quality wine. Waiter: friendly chap but untrained. There wasn’t any soy sauce nor ginger on the table, and had to ask for the wasabi.
Cedric R — Google review
Very good food and the Service was brillant.100% recommendation!
Wolfgang P — Google review
Unexpectedly lovely Japanese/fusion cuisine in Alacala’ de Henares. Nice restaurant, very pleasing crockery, glasses and cutlery. Excellent service: our waiter was knowledgeable, smiley, attentive and very nice. The food was delicious and very nicely presented.
Fiona S — Google review
A pretty original place, not just because of the atmosphere but the menu too. A wide variety of dishes for all kind of palates. The unique inconvenient and why I decided to leave four stars is that the prices are a little bit higher than expected.
Alberto P — Google review
The food is just amazing! We've tried sushi in many different countries and I must tell you this place is definitely worth visiting if you're in town and in sushi mood. 👍
Dayana C — Google review
I had high hopes for a decent sushi restaurant here in Alcalá, I have been severely disappointed. For the equivalent of $62.20 or €56.60 I received what would be gas station quality sushi in the United States and that may be giving it upgraded status. It is hands down the worst investment for food at a restaurant I have had in the year I have lived here. It did get delivered on time, and that's all I have good to say.
D S — Google review

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