Welcome to Leon, a historic city located in the northwest of Spain. If you’re planning to visit this city, you’re in for a treat. Leon offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, and is known for its breathtaking architecture, delicious food, and friendly people.
In this guide, we’ll give you some tips on what to see and do in Leon over a period of 3 days. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or art, there’s something for everyone in Leon. So, let’s get started!
Travel Tips in Leon
- Leon has a humid continental climate, which means that it can get quite cold in the winter months. Make sure to bring warm clothing if you’re visiting during this time.
- The official language of Leon is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- It’s always a good idea to carry cash with you, as some restaurants and shops may not accept credit cards.
- Leon is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
What to See in Leon
Leon is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of sights to see. Here are some of the most important places that you shouldn’t miss:
- Cathedral of Leon: This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of the most important sights in Leon. The cathedral is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
- San Marcos Monastery: This 16th-century monastery is located on the outskirts of Leon and is now a luxurious hotel. It’s worth a visit just to see the beautiful architecture.
- Casa de los Botines: This striking building was designed by Antoni Gaudi and is now home to a bank. You can still admire the beautiful facade from the outside.
- Santa Maria de Leon: This Romanesque church is one of the oldest buildings in Leon and is known for its beautiful frescoes.
- Murallas de Leon: The walls that once surrounded the city are still visible in some areas, and it’s worth taking a walk along them to enjoy the views of the city.
These are just a few of the many sights that Leon has to offer. Make sure to take a stroll through the historic center of the city to discover more hidden gems.
Routes in Leon
One of the best ways to explore Leon is on foot. Here are a few routes that you can take to see the city:
- Historical Route: This route will take you through the historic center of Leon, where you’ll see many of the city’s most important sights, including the Cathedral of Leon, Plaza Mayor, and the San Isidoro Basilica.
- Gastronomic Route: Leon is known for its delicious food, and this route will take you to some of the best places to eat in the city. Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as cecina (dried beef), morcilla (blood sausage), and pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus).
- Art Route: Leon is home to several museums and art galleries, including the MUSAC (Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla and Leon) and the Leon Museum. This route will take you to some of the best places to admire art in the city.
These routes are just a starting point, and there are plenty of other places to discover in Leon. Don’t be afraid to explore on your own!
Where to Sleep in Leon
Leon has plenty of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are a few suggestions:
- Parador de Leon: This luxurious hotel is located in the San Marcos Monastery and offers stunning views of the city. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for a special occasion.
- Hotel Spa Paris: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Leon and offers comfortable rooms and a spa.
- Hostal Sol Naciente: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the historic center of Leon and offers clean and comfortable rooms.
These are just a few of the many accommodation options available in Leon. Make sure to book in advance, especially during the high season.
Where to Eat in Leon
Leon is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of places to try local specialties. Here are a few suggestions:
- El Rincón de Antonio: This traditional restaurant is known for its delicious cecina (dried beef) and morcilla (blood sausage).
- Restaurante Cocinandos: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative dishes made with local ingredients.
- Bar Restaurante La Competencia: This lively bar is a great place to try some of the local tapas, such as pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and tortilla de patatas (potato omelet).
These are just a few of the many restaurants and bars in Leon. Don’t be afraid to explore on your own!
Free Tours in Leon
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several free tours available in Leon. These tours are a great way to learn more about the city and its history. Here are a few options:
- Free Walking Tour Leon: This tour takes you through the historic center of Leon and includes stops at the Cathedral of Leon, Plaza Mayor, and the San Isidoro Basilica. The tour lasts around 2 hours.
- Free Tapas Tour: This tour takes you to some of the best bars and restaurants in Leon, where you’ll be able to try some of the local tapas. The tour lasts around 3 hours.
- Free Bike Tour: This tour takes you on a bike ride through the city, where you’ll be able to see some of the most important sights while getting some exercise. The tour lasts around 2 hours.
These tours are a great way to get to know the city and its history without spending a lot of money. Make sure to book in advance, as they can be quite popular.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time of year to visit Leon? The best time to visit Leon is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
- Is it safe to walk around Leon at night? Leon is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions, especially if you’re walking around at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
- What is the local currency in Leon? The local currency in Leon is the Euro.
- Do I need a visa to visit Leon? If you’re a citizen of the EU or the US, you don’t need a visa to visit Spain for up to 90 days.
- What is the official tourism website for Leon? You can find more information about Leon on the official tourism website: https://www.leon.es/en
