Castile and León

Spain

A historic city with a prominent castle and a cathedral.
A historic bridge with ornate arches spanning a river, leading to a grand cathedral with twin towers and a large dome.
A historic tower with intricate architecture, a stone wall, and a building with arched windows.
A grand courtyard with ornate architecture, featuring a central fountain and two prominent towers in the background.
An arched corridor with a courtyard, featuring ornate stone buildings with multiple windows and doors.

Covering an enormous area of northwestern Spain, this region is known for its World Heritage cities, mountain treks and medieval buildings.

Castillo - Leon is one of the largest regions of Europe, a vast territory that covers much of northwest Spain. Within its borders are stunning landscapes of great diversity and many historic sites, including the three World Heritage cities of Avila, Salamanca and Segovia. Tour medieval buildings, go trekking in the mountains and visit the birthplace of a national hero as you explore the region.

Discover more than 2,000 years of history in the ancient university town of Salamanca. Cross the Roman Bridge that stands over the River Tormes to visit the 12th-century Old Cathedral and the magnificent Plaza Mayor.

In the medieval walled city of Avila you’ll find ancient Romanesque churches, the fortress-like Cathedral of San Salvador and the Convent of St. Theresa, which was founded in 1636. Go to Segovia to explore the Jewish Quarter and the Alcázar of Segovia, a 12th-century fairytale-like castle built over a Roman fortress. See a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct in the city.

For more stunning architecture, tour the Burgos Cathedral in Burgos. This is the burial place of El Cid, the 11th-century military leader and national hero.

Travel to the center of the region to explore Valladolid, the regional capital. Admire its renaissance architecture, go to museums and visit the former home of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote.

Away from the towns and cities are a host of natural attractions. Go climbing, hiking and kayaking in the Picos de Europa National Park. Spot the birds of prey that make their home in the Hoces del Rio Duraton Natural Park and trek through the mountainous landscape of Las Médulas. The dramatic landscape has been shaped by two centuries of gold mining by the Romans.

There are several ways into Castillo - Leon, including flying to Madrid, driving from France or arriving by ferry from the U.K. Let the region charm you with its history, architecture and scenic beauty.

Popular cities in Castile and León

A grand illuminated building with multiple arches and balconies.
Salamanca
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Universities
Journey through hundreds of years of history when you tour the well-preserved buildings of this lovely city in northwestern Spain.

Reasons to visit

  • University of Salamanca
  • Plaza Mayor
  • New Cathedral of Salamanca
A stone bridge with statues, a grassy area, and trees under a cloudy sky.
Burgos
Known for Cathedrals, Historical and Rivers
Trip time! Discover the cathedral, history and monuments in Burgos.

Reasons to visit

  • Burgos Cathedral
  • Plaza Mayor
  • University of Burgos
A historic castle with multiple towers and a prominent white building in the background.
Segovia
Known for Dining, Historical and Cathedrals
Get away to upscale Segovia! Enjoy the monuments, history and cathedral.

Reasons to visit

  • Segovia Aqueduct
  • Alcazar of Segovia
  • Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos
A historic building with intricate architecture, a large arched entrance, and a clock tower.
León
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Shopping
Get away to romantic León! Enjoy the history, museums and monuments.

Reasons to visit

  • León Cathedral
  • Barrio Húmedo
A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and a plaza with outdoor seating.
Valladolid
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Churches
Experience the museums, monuments and adventure in Valladolid!

Reasons to visit

  • Plaza de Zorrilla
A historic European street with cobblestone pavement, classic architecture, and a fountain in the center.
Aranda de Duero
Known for Friendly people, Dining and Ferries and boats
Enjoy a holiday in Aranda de Duero, historical town with a strong tradition of making wines, and discover some of the best treasures of Spain.

Stay near popular Castile and León attractions

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