Are you staying in León and want to make the most of your visit? The province of León is full of natural wonders, charming villages, and historical monuments that you can explore on day trips. From hiking trails through spectacular landscapes to towns that seem frozen in time, here we suggest the best places to discover from León city.
Moreover, all these excursions can be easily done in just one day from León, making the city the perfect starting point to discover the natural, cultural, and gastronomic richness of the province. Whether you travel by car, join an organized tour, or use public transport, you will always find options suited to your time and preferences.
- Valporquero Caves
- Cares Gorge Trail
- Picos de Europa
- Las Médulas
- El Bierzo
- Ponferrada
- Astorga
- Castrillo de los Polvazares
- Vegacervera Gorge
- San Miguel de la Escalada
- Peñalba de Santiago
- Llamazares Cave
- Valencia de Don Juan
- Valdevimbre
Valporquero Caves
A must-see for nature lovers. Located in the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains, the Valporquero Caves reveal an impressive underground world of limestone formations. Wander through its halls and galleries to admire stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and columns formed over thousands of years. Don’t miss the “Great Waterfall,” “The Ghost,” or the “Lonely Column,” some of its most iconic formations. The natural surroundings also make it ideal for a full day out.
In addition to tourist visits, Valporquero offers the chance to practice underground canyoning in the river that runs through the cave. It’s a unique experience for adventure seekers, with rappels, jumps, and natural slides in an incomparable subterranean setting.
📍 Distance from León: 50 km (45 minutes by car)
🔗 More info: cuevadevalporquero.es
Cares Gorge Trail
One of the most spectacular hiking routes in Spain. The trail runs between gorges and hanging bridges along the Cares River, in the heart of the Picos de Europa. Its impressive vertical walls and breathtaking natural scenery accompany you throughout the hike. Perfect both for experienced hikers and those looking for an unforgettable walk in nature.
If you don’t want to do the full round trip (24 km), a popular option is to hike just the Caín–Poncebos section and arrange transport back. This way you enjoy the entire route without the physical demand of returning on foot. Be sure to bring hiking boots and water, as there are no services along the trail.
📍 Distance from León: 110 km to Caín (2 hours by car)
🔗 More info: turismoasturias.es
Picos de Europa
A natural jewel that needs no introduction. From León you can access the Leonese side of the National Park, home to villages such as Posada de Valdeón or Soto de Valdeón. The Picos de Europa offer countless mountain routes, high-altitude landscapes, glacial lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints. You can also spot local wildlife such as chamois, golden eagles, and even brown bears.
On the Leonese side, the Tombo viewpoint offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the valley. Another option is to start from Panderrueda or Pandetrave, two strategic points that allow hikes of varying difficulty. Those seeking a quieter experience can simply enjoy the landscape by exploring the mountain villages.
📍 Distance from León: 120 km (2 hours by car)
Las Médulas
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Las Médulas is an awe-inspiring landscape shaped by ancient Roman gold mining. Walking its trails means immersing yourself in a world of red earth and lush vegetation. The Orellán viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of the site. Don’t miss the Archaeological Hall to better understand its history.
A highly recommended plan is to visit at sunset: the light enhances the reddish tones of the land, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The network of trails also offers routes of different lengths, suitable for both families and seasoned hikers.
📍 Distance from León: 130 km (1h 45 min by car)
El Bierzo
El Bierzo is much more than Las Médulas. This region combines mountains, rivers, and fertile valleys, and offers excellent gastronomy based on local products such as botillo, roasted peppers, and wines with Denomination of Origin Bierzo. Discover villages like Villafranca del Bierzo, with its Church of Santiago, Molinaseca, or walk a stretch of the Camino de Santiago through this area.
You can’t leave El Bierzo without tasting its wines in one of the many wineries, many of them open for wine tourism. The mild climate and unique soils make the mencía and godello grapes internationally recognized.
📍 Distance from León: 115 km (1h 20 min by car)
Ponferrada
The capital of El Bierzo is famous for its Templar Castle, an impressive medieval fortress straight out of a fairytale. Its old town also offers a pleasant area of bars, restaurants, and museums such as the Radio Museum or the Energy Museum (La Fábrica de Luz). Ponferrada is also a key stop on the Camino de Santiago.
The historic center of Ponferrada is perfect to explore on foot. Very close to the Templar Castle you’ll find the Basilica of La Encina, patron saint of El Bierzo, and plenty of tapas bars. The city is also a great base to explore other towns in the region.
📍 Distance from León: 110 km (1h 15 min by car)
Astorga
Located where the Camino de Santiago and the Vía de la Plata meet, Astorga is a historic city full of must-see monuments. Visit the majestic Episcopal Palace, designed by Antoni Gaudí, the Cathedral of Santa María, and enjoy its lively Plaza Mayor. Astorga is also famous for its chocolate tradition, so don’t leave without trying some artisanal chocolate.
Don’t miss the Chocolate Museum and the Roman Museum, which complete Astorga’s cultural offer. The city also hosts important festivals such as Holy Week and the historical reenactment of the Cantabrian and Astur Wars.
📍 Distance from León: 50 km (35 minutes by car)
Castrillo de los Polvazares
Very close to Astorga, Castrillo de los Polvazares is one of the most beautiful villages in León and an excellent example of Maragato architecture. Its cobbled streets and stone houses preserve their traditional charm. Be sure to try cocido maragato, a typical dish served “in reverse” (starting with the meats).
The village is part of the historic-artistic heritage of the Maragato region. Walking through its streets feels like traveling back in time, as almost no cars circulate. Its traditional restaurants make it a perfect place to enjoy Leonese gastronomy at a relaxed pace.
📍 Distance from León: 55 km (40 minutes by car)
Vegacervera Gorge
A spectacular gorge that offers some of the most impressive landscapes in the province. The Torío River has carved deep ravines into the limestone rock, creating a perfect setting for leisurely walks or bike rides. You can also combine your visit with the nearby Valporquero Caves, located just a few minutes away.
The road that crosses the gorge is an experience in itself: tunnels dug into the rock, sharp bends, and vertical walls hundreds of meters high accompany the journey. It is also a paradise for climbing and photography enthusiasts.
📍 Distance from León: 45 km (40 minutes by car)
San Miguel de la Escalada
This monastery, built in the 10th century by Mozarabic monks, is a gem of pre-Romanesque art. Its columns, horseshoe arches, and perfectly preserved church transport visitors to another era. It is an ideal place for lovers of history and art, and can be visited in under an hour.
The monastery is surrounded by a peaceful landscape, perfect for combining a cultural visit with a nature walk. Nearby you’ll find remains of medieval architecture and small villages that preserve the rural essence of León.
📍 Distance from León: 30 km (25 minutes by car)
Peñalba de Santiago
Nestled in the Valley of Silence, Peñalba de Santiago is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its cobbled streets and slate houses preserve traditional Bercian architecture. The Mozarabic church of Santiago de Peñalba is one of its great historical treasures.
The natural setting of the Valley of Silence lives up to its name: a place of peace and total disconnection. Hikers can take advantage of the trails leading to the Cave of San Genadio, where the monastery’s founder retreated to meditate.
📍 Distance from León: 130 km (2 hours by car)
Llamazares Cave
Less known than Valporquero, the Llamazares Cave offers a quieter and more intimate visit. It is notable for its aragonite formations, a rare and beautiful geological feature. Perfect for those seeking a different activity in the Leonese mountains.
Visits are usually made in small groups, allowing for a more personalized experience. Its spectacular aragonite formations are unique in Spain and make the cave a little-known geological treasure.
📍 Distance from León: 70 km (1 hour by car)
Valencia de Don Juan
An ideal spot for a family getaway. Its perfectly preserved medieval castle dominates the town. In summer, its river beach and municipal swimming pools are excellent for cooling off. You can also enjoy walks along the Esla River or visit its Castle Museum.
During summer, Valencia de Don Juan becomes a leisure destination for families from all over the province thanks to its pools, entertainment areas, and wide gastronomic offer. The castle also hosts theatrical visits and cultural activities.
📍 Distance from León: 40 km (30 minutes by car)
Valdevimbre
The “wine capital” of León. In Valdevimbre you can visit its traditional underground wineries, called “cuevas,” where you can taste some of the best wines from the León D.O., accompanied by tapas and local dishes. A gastronomic experience you can’t miss.
Some of these cave-wineries operate as authentic underground restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional Leonese cuisine. Dining underground, surrounded by wine and tradition, makes the visit unforgettable for groups of friends or couples.
📍 Distance from León: 25 km (20 minutes by car)
Where to Stay in León
If you want to enjoy all these wonders comfortably, León Apartamentos offers modern, centrally located, and fully equipped apartments. The perfect base to explore the city and set off to discover the most magical corners of the province.
✨ Book your stay with us and live the León adventure to the fullest!
