Leon On A Budget: A Two-Day Adventure

Experience the rich history and culture of Leon without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Leon, Spain is a charming city filled with Romanesque and Gothic architecture. For those on a limited budget, there are plenty of free attractions to visit such as the Leon Cathedral and the Convento de San Marcos. Dining on a budget is also possible with delicious options such as tapas bars and local markets.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the city

  • Check into the Hotel Paris, a quaint budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Leon's old town.
  • Visit the impressive Gothic cathedral, home to stunning stained glass windows and a beautiful cloister.
  • Wander through the picturesque Barrio Húmedo, enjoying the lively atmosphere and trying some local specialties like morcilla de León (Leonese blood sausage).
  • Discover the charming Casa de Botines, a building designed by Antoni Gaudí.
  • Take a stroll along the Paseo de la Condesa, a beautiful tree-lined promenade alongside the Bernesga River.
Day 2

Historical adventures

  • Start the day with a visit to the San Marcos Monastery, a beautiful Renaissance building and former pilgrim's hospital.
  • Discover Leon's Roman past at the Murallas de Leon, the only remaining section of the city's Roman walls.
  • Explore the Museo de León, which showcases the city's rich history and heritage.
  • Take a break in Parque Quevedo, a peaceful green space in the center of the city.
  • End the day at El Pájaro Azul, a cozy restaurant serving up delicious homemade stews and traditional dishes.
  • Leon is a city of history, charm and culture, and a perfect destination for a short break on a budget. With its impressive cathedrals, rich heritage and delicious local cuisine, Leon should definitely be on your travel radar.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Leon by plane is to fly into Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and then take a connecting flight to León Airport.

Car

Driving to Leon is also an option, and the trip takes approximately 4 hours from Madrid. The best route is to take the A-6 and then switch to the AP-71 towards León.

Train

If traveling by train, Renfe offers a high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Leon, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Boat

As Leon is an inland city, there are no direct routes via boat to the city.

Bus

Taking a bus to Leon is a popular option. Some of the companies that offer service to Leon from Madrid include Avanza and Alsa. The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours.

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