Leon is a city that captivates at first sight, a crossroads where history, art, and gastronomy meet. If you are planning a getaway and are wondering what to see in Leon and its surroundings in 3 days, you have come to the perfect place. Prepare your route!
Day 1: Immersion in the Historical Heart
The first day focuses on the monumental essence of León.
Cathedral and the Barrio Húmedo
Start at the Cathedral of Santa María de León, known as the Pulchra Leonina. It is a Gothic jewel famous for its impressive stained-glass windows. Take some time to admire how the light filters through and transforms the interior.
A few steps away, visit the Royal Collegiate Church of San Isidoro. Its Royal Pantheon, nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of Romanesque Art,” houses uniquely beautiful frescoes, key to understanding medieval history.
As evening falls, head to the Barrio Húmedo (the area around the Plaza Mayor). It is essential to experience the tradition of “going for tapas”; with every drink, you receive a complimentary tapa. Try the morcilla (blood sausage) or the León cecina (cured beef)!
Day 2: From the Renaissance to Gaudí
The second day offers an architectural contrast between the classic and the modern.
San Marcos and Casa Botines
Begin at the former Convent of San Marcos, a majestic Plateresque building that now functions as a National Parador (luxury hotel). Its façade is a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance.
Mark on your route the Casa Botines, one of the few works by Antonio Gaudí outside of Catalonia. This Neo-Gothic Modernist building, now a museum, contrasts sharply with the neighboring constructions and is an essential visit.
If you are interested in contemporary art, the MUSAC (Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla y León) is an iconic building with a vibrant, colorful facade that is worth seeing.
Day 3: Exploring the Surroundings of León
For the last day, we propose an excursion outside the capital to discover the surroundings of León.
Option 1: Astorga, the Two-Thousand-Year-Old City
Less than an hour away, Astorga awaits you with its duality: the Gothic Cathedral next to the stunning Episcopal Palace by Gaudí. It is a key point on the Camino de Santiago. Don’t forget to visit its Chocolate Museum.
Option 2: Las Médulas, the Roman Footprint
If you prefer nature, Las Médulas (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a striking spectacle. These ancient Roman gold mines, with their curious formations, make for a perfect excursion.
Now you know what to see in León and its surroundings in 3 days. León is a city to be enjoyed on foot, leisurely, and, above all, with a good appetite. We hope to see you soon at My Palace!