A charming little town slightly south of Ciudad Real in Castile-La Mancha, Almagro is a wonderful destination for keen culture aficionados. The town offers a small selection of accommodation options, some of which are within walking distance of its historic centre. Our Gurus’ choice of the best places to stay in Almagro is one such property; a beautiful 17th-century townhouse turned boutique hotel with a popular restaurant.

Almagro’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly the open-air Corral de Comedias, a well-preserved 17th-century theatre which still hosts performances as part of the International Festival of Classical Theatre. The town has become an arts hub since the theatre’s rediscovery in the 1950s, and is now a Historical-Artistic Zone. Begin at the imposing Plaza Mayor, admiring painstakingly restored heritage residences, churches and palaces as you stroll around town. The excellent National Museum of Theatre is well worth visiting, as is the intriguing Campo de Calatrava Ethnographic Museum.

Venture beyond the town itself for hiking and cycling trails, as well as some fantastic wineries and lovely little villages with superb eateries. The best places to stay in Almagro will book up quickly during festival season, so plan your trip well in advance!