Leon: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure of a Lifetime!
Discover the vibrant charm of Leon, Spain for an unforgettable family adventure.
19 July 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Leon, Spain is the perfect destination for a family friendly trip filled with history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the city's enchanting medieval architecture and visit the stunning Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a leisurely stroll through the local parks, enjoy delicious tapas in family-friendly restaurants, and discover the fascinating history of the city through engaging tours and museum visits.
Travel plan
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- Check into the Hotel Parador San Marcos, a beautifully restored 16th-century monastery turned luxury hotel, perfect for families seeking a touch of royal treatment.
- Begin the day with a visit to the monumental Cathedral of Leon, where you can marvel at its stunning stained glass windows and climb to the top for panoramic city views.
- Immerse yourself in history at the Archaeological Museum of Leon, housing fascinating artifacts dating back to the Roman era.
- Take a leisurely stroll along Calle Ancha, the bustling pedestrian street lined with charming shops and cafes, offering a taste of local life.
- Don't miss the enchanting Casa Botines, a unique modernist masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.
- Finish the day with a hearty feast of Leonese cuisine at El Cordero, a traditional restaurant famous for its succulent roasted lamb.
- Embark on an exciting hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes of Leon, providing breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.
- Explore the stunning Sierra de Ancares Natural Park, where you can hike through lush forests, spot wildlife, and discover hidden waterfalls.
- Visit the stunning Cave of Valporquero, a subterranean wonderland featuring mesmerizing stalactite formations and an underground river.
- Indulge in some adrenaline-pumping activities at Paddle in Spain, offering thrilling canoeing and kayaking adventures in the nearby Bernesga River.
- Head back to Leon to enjoy a delectable dinner at Cocinandos, a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in creative and innovative cuisine.
- Start the day with a visit to the contemporary art museum, MUSAC, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions from both national and international artists.
- Taste your way through the charming Mercado del Conde, filled with stalls offering an array of fresh local produce, including artisan cheese and cured meats.
- Treat yourself to a traditional Leonese dessert, like the mouthwatering Nicanores de Boñar, a sweet pastry filled with rich cream.
- Explore the charming Barrio Húmedo, the city's vibrant historic quarter, famous for its lively tapas scene. Don't miss trying the local specialty, "cecina," a delicious cured beef.
- End your trip on a high note with a visit to the stunning Casa de los Botines, another architectural gem by Gaudí, where you can soak up the city's artistic vibe.
- Enjoy your family-friendly adventure in Leon, where history, adventure, and gastronomy blend harmoniously!
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.