León, nestled at the foot of the majestic Cantabrian Mountains and crossed by the Camino de Santiago, is one of the most fascinating cities in northern Spain. With a history that dates back to Roman times and a monumental legacy reflecting centuries of splendor, León perfectly combines tradition and modernity. Walking through its streets means encountering Gothic cathedrals, Roman walls, Renaissance palaces, and lively squares.
But León is more than heritage: it is also a vibrant, living city, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, exquisite gastronomy, and unique tapas culture, where every corner invites you to stay a little longer.
Whether it’s your first time here or you already know the city, there is always something new to discover—a hidden corner, a different museum, a story you hadn’t heard before. In this article, we present the 12 must-see places to visit in León in one or two days, so you can make the most of your stay and take with you the very best of this jewel of northwestern Spain.
🏰 1. León Cathedral – Pulchra Leonina
The Cathedral of León, also known as Pulchra Leonina, is the city’s most iconic monument and one of the true gems of European Gothic architecture. Built in the 13th century over ancient Roman baths, it is a place where history and architecture meet in perfect harmony. Its stained-glass windows, among the most spectacular in the world, cover more than 1,800 square meters and transform the interior into a magical space of light and color.
The west rose window, the three sculpted portals depicting biblical scenes, and the soaring central nave are some of its most remarkable features. The cathedral is also home to the Diocesan Museum.
- 📝 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunlight filtering through the stained glass.
- 💶 Admission: €6 adults, €5 students.
- 🕘 Opening Hours: M–F: 9:30–13:30 & 16:00–19:00 / Sat: 9:30–12:00 & 16:00–18:00 / Sun: 9:30–11:00
🏛️ 2. Convent of San Marcos
The Convent of San Marcos is one of the most important monumental complexes of the Spanish Renaissance. Its Plateresque façade, stretching over 100 meters, is truly impressive from a distance. Over the centuries, this historic building has served many purposes: a pilgrims’ hospital, a convent, a prison (where the writer Quevedo was once held), and today it houses a luxurious Parador hotel and part of the Museum of León.
The Church of San Marcos, annexed to the convent, features a beautiful cloister and altarpieces that are well worth a visit. Just a few steps away lies the San Marcos Bridge, which crosses the Bernesga River.
- 📸 Photo Tip: The best time to photograph the façade is at sunset.
- 🎟️ Admission: Free
- 🕘 Opening Hours: Monday: Closed; Tue–Sat: 10:00–14:00 / 16:00–19:00; Sun: 10:00–14:00
🏠 3. Casa Botines
Designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, Casa Botines is one of only three buildings he constructed outside Catalonia. It was originally conceived as a residential and warehouse building for a textile company. Today, it houses the España-Duero Foundation and a museum dedicated to modernism and Gaudí.
Its neo-Gothic style, pointed towers, wrought-iron details, and sculptures (including Saint George slaying the dragon) captivate visitors. Inside, you’ll find original furniture, temporary exhibitions, and unique architectural features that make this building a true icon of León.
- 🕘 Opening Hours: Mon–Sat: 11:00–14:00 / 16:00–20:00; Sun: 11:00–14:00; (Closed Wednesday mornings)
- Admission: Self-guided visit: €9; Guided tour: €12
⛪ 4. Basilica of San Isidoro
The Basilica of San Isidoro in León is one of the most important Romanesque constructions in Europe. Founded in the 11th century, it houses the famous Royal Pantheon, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art” for its 12th-century frescoes, preserved naturally without restorations.
The adjoining museum is also remarkable, home to the famous Chalice of Doña Urraca, which some studies have linked to the Holy Grail. A cloister and a historic library complete the visit.
- 📍 Location: Just a few steps from the Roman wall and the old town.
- 🆓 Admission: Free access to the basilica. Museum and Pantheon require a ticket.
- 🕘 Opening Hours: Check at https://www.museosanisidorodeleon.com/
🏘️ 5. Plaza Mayor de León
The Plaza Mayor of León is the heart of the old town, located right in the lively Barrio Húmedo. Built in the Baroque style and presided over by a 17th-century town hall, the square is full of life at any time of day. Its arcaded structure shelters bars, cafés, and terraces where you can enjoy León’s famous tapas.
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, it hosts a traditional market, and during the San Juan festivities or Holy Week, it becomes a vibrant cultural epicenter..
- 📌 Just 2 minutes from our apartment on Calle Caño Badillo.
- 🍷 Must-try: Order a corto (small beer) with a traditional Leonese tapa.
🏯 6. Palace of the Guzmanes
Located next to Casa Botines, the Palace of the Guzmanes is a 16th-century Renaissance jewel with Plateresque elements. Once the residence of a powerful noble family, it now houses the Provincial Government of León. Its inner courtyard and Renaissance staircase can be visited, offering a very different architectural experience compared to the Gothic style of the cathedral.
From its façade decorated with heraldic shields to its corner entrance, every detail of the palace breathes history. Exhibitions and guided tours are often held here, making it a cultural landmark as well as an architectural one.
- 🕘 Opening Hours: Subject to tourist availability. It is recommended to check on site.
- 🏛️ Category: Declared a Cultural Heritage Site (Bien de Interés Cultural) since 1963.
🌳 7. Plaza del Grano
With its traditional cobblestones, Plaza del Grano seems frozen in time. Officially named Plaza de Santa María del Camino, it preserves the rural atmosphere of bygone eras and is one of the most photographed corners of León.
At its center stands the church of the same name, dating back to the 12th century. On one side lies the Carbajalas Convent, which today hosts pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Its surroundings are ideal for relaxing on a terrace or taking a stroll at sunset.
- 📝 Tip: To find it on Google Maps, search for “Plaza Santa María del Camino.”
- 📍 Location: Right in the heart of the Barrio Húmedo
🎨 8. MUSAC – Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla y León
MUSAC is one of the most innovative museums in Spain. Its multicolored façade, designed by the Mansilla+Tuñón studio, is inspired by the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral. Inside, it hosts international contemporary art exhibitions that are renewed each season.
It is perfect for lovers of art and modern architecture, and it offers family activities, guided tours, and creative workshops.
- 💶 Price: €3 general admission, €2 reduced, free on Sunday afternoons
- 🕘 Hours: Tue–Fri: 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–20:00 / Sat–Sun: 11:00–15:00 and 17:00–21:00 / Closed on Mondays
⚰️ 9. Royal Pantheon of San Isidoro
Located within the Basilica complex, the Royal Pantheon preserves 12th-century frescoes considered the finest examples of Romanesque art in Europe. They depict the agricultural calendar and biblical scenes with a unique narrative style.
They have been preserved thanks to a natural microclimate. More than 30 monarchs of the Kingdom of León rest here, making it a site of great historical importance.
- 🎟️ Price: Included with the ticket to the San Isidoro Museum (€5)
🧱 10. Roman Walls of León
The remains of León’s Wall date back to the 1st century BC, when the city was a Roman military camp. Over time, the wall was reinforced with stone and eventually surrounded the entire city.
Today, visitors can walk along restored sections and admire defensive towers. Some viewpoints offer unique perspectives, especially along Avenida de los Cubos, where the best-preserved structure can be seen.
- 🏛️ Free access: There are information panels along different sections
- 📸 Recommendation: Ideal for a sunset walk
🍷 11. Barrio Húmedo & Barrio Romántico
Two neighborhoods are essential to experience León with all five senses. The Barrio Húmedo, named for its high concentration of bars and nightlife, is famous for its tradition of free tapas with every drink.
The Barrio Romántico, quieter and more bohemian, offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for couples and families. Both are separated by Calle Ancha and form the gastronomic and social heart of the city.
- 🍷 Typical drinks: The corto (small beer), prieto picudo or mencía wine, grape juice (mosto), or the butano (orange soda).
🕊️ 12. Plaza de San Marcelo
Popularly known as Plaza de las Palomas, it is located in the old town, at the foot of the Barrio Húmedo. Here you’ll find the Church of San Marcelo, the old town hall, and several gardens where a bronze scale model of the city can be admired.
From this square, you can easily access Casa Botines, Calle Ancha, and other tourist areas. It is common for markets, fairs, and cultural events to be held here throughout the year.
León is much more than just a stop on the Camino de Santiago or a city to pass through. It is a destination that perfectly combines the grandeur of its past with the vitality of its present. Walking through its streets is like taking a journey through time: from the traces of the Roman Empire and the glory of the Kingdom of León to the Romanesque and Gothic masterpieces that adorn its old town. To all this is added a first-rate contemporary cultural offering, a vibrant gastronomic scene where free tapas are a tradition, and a hospitality that makes visitors feel at home.
Whether you have just a few hours or several days, León offers unforgettable experiences: watching the light filter through its stained-glass windows at sunset, discovering hidden corners like Plaza del Grano, or enjoying a prieto picudo wine accompanied by typical cured meats on a terrace in the Barrio Húmedo. It is a city made for strolling, savoring, and living intensely.
So don’t hesitate: León deserves a place on your list of must-see destinations. Because those who visit always want to return.
🏡 Where to Stay in León
To enjoy all these must-see places with comfort and ease, stay at León Apartamentos. Our centrally located, modern, and fully equipped apartments are the perfect base to explore the city on foot and make the most of your getaway. Book directly with us and experience León like a local, with all the comfort of feeling at home.
