Escape to Romantic Leon: Five Day Getaway Guide
Experience Spanish romance in the historic city of Leon.
22 April 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
A romantic trip to Leon, Spain is a perfect getaway for couples seeking a quaint, charming and romantic environment. Leon is known for its stunning Gothic cathedrals, romantic squares, and scenic countryside. Couples can enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the many restaurants, take a stroll through the historic streets, and end the night with a glass of locally produced wine.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro, a beautiful and historic hotel in the heart of Leon.
- Explore the city center and visit the stunning Santa Maria de Leon Cathedral.
- Have lunch at Casa Mando, a charming restaurant serving traditional Leonese cuisine.
- Visit the Casa de los Botines, a unique building designed by Antoni Gaudí.
- End the day with a drink at El Gran Café, a chic and trendy bar with a great atmosphere.
- Begin the day with breakfast at Cafe-Bar Azul y Blanco, a trendy spot with great coffee and tasty pastries.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León.
- Have lunch at Casa Rios, a local restaurant famous for its seafood dishes.
- Explore the medieval streets of Barrio Húmedo, the city's historic district.
- Enjoy a wine tasting at Bodegas Cepa 21, a winery located just outside Leon.
- Start the day with a stroll along the banks of the Rio Bernesga.
- Take a day trip to the stunning Picos de Europa National Park.
- Enjoy lunch at El Molino del Real in the charming town of Sabero.
- Hike to the summit of Pico Jario for breathtaking views of the park.
- Return to Leon for dinner at Restaurante Enrique, a cozy spot with fantastic food and a great atmosphere.
- Visit the Museo de León, home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the region.
- Have lunch at El Capricho, a local favorite famous for its delicious tapas.
- Explore the Palacio de los Guzmanes, a stunning Baroque building now used as the provincial government's headquarters.
- Enjoy a performance at the Teatro San Francisco, a beautiful theater with a packed schedule of shows.
- End the day with a drink at Bar Belmondo, a stylish spot with a great vibe.
- Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Ordoño, a classic spot known for its coffee and churros.
- Visit the Convento de San Marcos, a beautiful Gothic building now used as a luxury hotel.
- Have a leisurely lunch at El Tropezón, a cozy restaurant with a great selection of local wines.
- Take a stroll through the Parque de los Reyes de España before saying goodbye to Leon.
- Depart with fond memories of a beautiful city full of history, culture, and great food.
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.