The 5 Most Beautiful Villages Near León for a Day Trip

The province of León is a true treasure for travelers who want to blend nature, history, and gastronomy. While the capital draws much of the attention, just a few kilometers away you’ll find charming villages well worth a visit. Perfect for a one-day getaway, these destinations offer unique landscapes, traditional architecture, and the warmth of Leonese hospitality.

Below are the five most beautiful villages near León—ideal for taking it slow and returning to the city the very same day.

1. Astorga

Distance from León: 45 km — 35 min by car.

Astorga is a monumental gem that brings together Roman, medieval, and modernist heritage. Its stunning Episcopal Palace, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the Catalan architect’s few buildings outside Catalonia. The Cathedral of Santa María, the Chocolate Museum, and the Roman urban layout are must-sees.
Don’t miss the city walls, the Plaza Mayor with its automaton clock, and—of course—a hearty cocido maragato, served “in reverse”: first the meats, then the chickpeas and vegetables, and finally the soup.

Beyond its monuments, Astorga keeps a welcoming, lively atmosphere—especially in summer and during Holy Week, when processions fill its streets with tradition and color. The old town, with its narrow lanes and squares, invites unhurried strolls, with charming shops and cafés at every turn.

Another major draw is its strategic location at the crossroads of the French Way and the Vía de la Plata on the Camino de Santiago, making it a meeting point for pilgrims from around the world. This lends a cosmopolitan, culturally rich feel—perfect for lovers of “living history.”

2. Castrillo de los Polvazares

Distance from León: 50 km — 40 min by car.

Considered one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, Castrillo de los Polvazares is a perfect example of Maragato architecture, with cobbled streets and stone houses with wooden gates. It sits just 5 km from Astorga, making it easy to combine both visits in one day.
It’s famous for restaurants specializing in cocido maragato and for feeling like time has stood still—ideal for leisurely strolls and a long lunch in one of its historic inns.

Its outstanding preservation is no accident: Castrillo was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1980, ensuring new buildings respect the traditional style. Walking its streets is like stepping into an open-air museum of Maragato culture.

During the village festivities, music, traditional dances, and regional dress fill the streets, offering visitors an authentic immersion in local customs. It’s also a popular photo stop for those traveling the Camino de Santiago.

3. Hospital de Órbigo

Distance from León: 35 km — 30 min by car.

This village is known for the spectacular Puente del Paso Honroso, a medieval bridge over the Órbigo River that has witnessed chivalric legends. In the 15th century, knight Suero de Quiñones challenged all who wished to cross in a famous tournament, remembered each year with the Medieval Joust.
These jousts are held on the first weekend of June, transforming the village into a true medieval stage with knights, ladies, markets, and open-air shows.

In June, the town bursts with color and life during the reenactment, drawing visitors from all over Spain. It’s perfect for families and history fans, combining fun, culture, and historical ambiance.

The area also offers hiking and cycling routes along the riverbanks—great for a day in nature. In winter, the village takes on a peaceful, nostalgic air, ideal for those seeking calm and a quiet walk by the water.

4. Peñalba de Santiago

Distance from León: 120 km — 1 h 45 min by car.

Set in the heart of the Valley of Silence (Valle del Silencio) in the Bierzo region, Peñalba de Santiago is a magical destination ringed by mountains. Its stone-and-slate houses, narrow lanes, and famous Mozarabic church have earned it a place among Spain’s most beautiful villages.
The surroundings are perfect for hikers, with routes like the trail to San Genadio’s Cave. In autumn, the landscape glows with golden and red tones for a truly unique experience.

The village dates back to the 10th century and is linked to San Genadio, Bishop of Astorga, who sought spiritual retreat here. That monastic past still lingers in the silence and peace that envelop the place.

A visit to Peñalba is also a chance to savor Bierzo cuisine—think botillo, savory pies, and roasted peppers. Many travelers pair it with nearby Molinaseca or Ponferrada.

5. Balboa

Distance from León: 140 km — 1 h 50 min by car.

Deep in Bierzo, Balboa is a small village that surprises with its tranquility and beauty. Highlights include the medieval castle overlooking the valley and its traditional pallozas—round, Celtic-origin dwellings with thatched roofs.
In summer, Balboa comes alive with music festivals, craft markets, and cultural events—a perfect spot to unplug and enjoy nature.

Balboa’s cultural richness shines in its vernacular architecture, blending stone, wood, and slate into a harmonious, photogenic whole. The natural setting invites nearby mountain walks, especially in spring when the meadows bloom.

Its relaxed vibe and warm hospitality keep visitors coming back. Here, Bierzo gastronomy is wonderfully authentic, with cozy eateries serving home-style dishes made from local products.