Leon, Spain: 5 Days of History and Adventure

Discover the heart of Spain in Leon.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Leon in Spain would be an exciting destination with a lot of historical and cultural significance. One could visit attractions such as the Gothic cathedral, the 10th century San Isidoro Basilica, and the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León. The city also has delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center

  • Check-in at Hotel NH Collection Leon Plaza Mayor, an elegant 4-star hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Gothic Cathedral of Leon, with its impressive stained glass windows and ornate carvings.
  • Walk along the cobblestone streets of Barrio Humedo, a lively neighborhood full of tapas bars and restaurants.
  • Visit the Casa Botines, a building designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi that now houses a museum.
  • End the day at the Plaza de San Martin, a charming square with a fountain and outdoor terraces.
Day 2

Hiking in the Leonese Mountains

  • Take a day trip to the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, a natural wonderland of mountains, gorges, and forests.
  • Hike the Ruta del Cares, a famous trail that follows the Cares River through a spectacular canyon.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the peaks and valleys, and spot wildlife such as chamois, eagles, and vultures.
  • Have a picnic lunch with local specialties such as chorizo, cheese, and cider.
  • Return to Leon in the evening and relax in the hotel's spa and wellness center.
Day 3

Wine Tasting in the Bierzo Region

  • Discover the wine region of Bierzo, famous for its Mencia grape and unique terroir.
  • Visit the charming village of Villafranca del Bierzo, with its medieval churches and narrow alleys.
  • Taste local wines at the wineries of Descendientes de J. Palacios and Raúl Pérez, both renowned for their high-quality wines.
  • Have a gourmet lunch at Orellán, a restaurant that specializes in traditional dishes with a modern twist.
  • Learn about the wine-making process and the history of the region from your expert guide.
Day 4

The Camino de Santiago Experience

  • Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes that lead to the shrine of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela.
  • Walk the last 12 kilometers of the French Way, from San Martin del Camino to the Plaza del Obradoiro.
  • Pass by iconic landmarks such as the Cruz de Ferro, the Iron Cross where many pilgrims leave a stone as a symbol of their journey.
  • Arrive in Santiago de Compostela and visit the Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Baroque architecture.
  • Celebrate your achievement with a traditional Galician meal and a glass of Albariño wine.
Day 5

Art and Culture in Leon

  • Discover the rich cultural heritage of Leon, with its museums, galleries, and theaters.
  • Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, with its impressive collection of Spanish and international art.
  • Learn about the history of Leon at the Museo de Leon, with its archaeological and ethnographic exhibits.
  • Attend a performance at the Teatro Emperador, a beautiful Art Deco theater that hosts concerts, plays, and dance shows.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred Cocinandos, known for its innovative cuisine that combines tradition and modernity.

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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