León, a city with a storied past, was a prominent medieval capital and a key stop for pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela. Its heritage is showcased in its architecture, from the former pilgrim's hostel turned luxury hotel to the Gothic splendor of its cathedral.
Visitors can indulge in León's culinary scene, with traditional eateries and tapas bars tucked away in its cobblestone streets. Discover the top attractions and activities in this historic city below.
1. Real Colegiata de San Isidoro de León
The Collegiate Church of Saint Isidore is a Romanesque gem, housing the tomb of Saint Isidore and the Royal Pantheon, often called the "Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art." The attached museum showcases artifacts from the Kingdom of León.
Address: 4 Plaza de San Isidoro, León
2. Catedral de León
The Cathedral of León, a masterpiece of Early Gothic architecture, is famed for its stained-glass windows and the Museo Catedralicio Diocesano, which houses religious treasures.
Address: Plaza de Regla, León
3. Convento de San Marcos (Parador de León)
The former Convent of San Marcos, now a luxurious hotel, is a Renaissance masterpiece with a Gothic church and a museum annex.
Address: 7 Plaza de San Marcos, León
4. Museo Casa Botines Gaudí
Antoni Gaudí's Neo-Gothic creation, the Museo Casa Botines Gaudí, is a museum showcasing fine arts and a restaurant offering traditional cuisine.
Address: Casa Botines, 5 Plaza de San Marcelo, León
5. Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is the bustling heart of León, surrounded by eateries and the old Consistorio Viejo.
6. Old Town
The Casco Antiguo (Old Town) of León is a maze of historic streets, plazas, and tapas bars, perfect for an evening stroll.
7. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León
This contemporary art museum offers interactive exhibits and cultural events in a striking modern building.
Address: 21 Avenida de los Reyes Leoneses, León
8. Centro de Interpretación del León Romano
This museum delves into León's Roman military history, showcasing armor and artifacts from the Legion VII Gemina.
Address: Plaza Puerta Castillo, León
9. Palacio de los Guzmanes
The 16th-century Palacio de los Guzmanes, a National Monument, now serves as government offices and is open to the public.
Address: Palacio de los Guzmanes, 6 Plaza San Marcelo, León
10. Iglesia de San Salvador de Palat del Rey
The oldest church in León, the Iglesia de San Salvador de Palat del Rey, showcases Pre-Romanesque and Mozarabic architecture.
11. Museo de León
The León Museum traces the region's history from the Paleolithic to the present, with a focus on Roman and medieval periods.
Address: 8 Plaza de Santo Domingo, León
