Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Burgos, Spain

The historic capital of the Kingdom of Castile, Burgos, is a picturesque city adorned with Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The charming buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries are constructed from local white limestone, imparting a unique regal aura to the Burgos skyline.

Visitors can pay their respects at the resting places of several monarchs and witness the site where Christopher Columbus was granted an audience by royalty in the 15th century. Additionally, just outside the city limits lie the earliest known human fossils in Europe, dating back approximately 350,000 years.

Let us delve into the top attractions in Burgos:

1. Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Mary in Burgos, constructed in the 13th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is distinctive as the only cathedral in Spain to achieve this recognition independently of other structures.

Approaching the edifice from the west reveals its stunning twin spires, closely inspired by the gothic cathedrals of Paris and Reims.

Regardless of the direction from which you arrive, there are captivating details to behold, from the medieval sculptures on the Door of the Coronería to the striking octagonal tower on the eastern flank.

This is merely a prelude, as within lie many treasures, including the tomb of the legendary 11th-century figure, El Cid.

2. Monasterio de Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas

Summarizing the historical significance of the next monument, located just beyond the city’s western boundary, is a formidable task.

This abbey serves as the final resting place for nine kings and queens, and visitors can marvel at the lavishness of these burials at the Museo de Ricas Telas, which showcases a collection of tapestries, including one that adorned the tent of Caliph Al Nasir.

Included in the monastery’s archives is the Codex Las Huelgas, a rare 14th-century music manuscript.

During an enlightening guided tour of the abbey, you will explore the birthplace of Pedro the Cruel and the location where Edward I (Longshanks) was wed to Eleanor of Castile in 1254.

3. Burgos Castle

Situated on the western edge of the city, set high above the cathedral, lies the tallest hill in Burgos, which was the initial settlement area dating back to the Iron Age and is now home to the city’s castle.

The remaining outer walls and towers of this fortress still stand tall, although much of the structure was lost when French forces under Napoleon detonated it during their withdrawal from Burgos in 1813.

A short distance from these remnants is the Mirador del Castillo, a picturesque viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the entire city.

4. A Walk Through the Historic Centre

Relax at a café on Plaza Mayor with a refreshing beverage, while surrounded by the town hall and an eclectic mix of painted historical buildings.

With just a few steps, you can reach Plaza Mio Cid, where a statue of the Spanish hero on horseback points across the River Arlanzón.

Take some time on the Puente de San Pablo to reflect on the river’s beauty and its lush banks before wandering back into the city’s oldest areas, browsing boutiques and local amenities on Calle Paloma and Calle de Lain Calvo, characterized by an array of painted apartment buildings and historic stone arcades.

5. Atapuerca

East of Burgos lies the largest archaeological site globally, Atapuerca, where the oldest hominid fossils in Europe have been unearthed, some dating back 350,000 years.

The initial discoveries occurred during the late 1800s when a mining train tunnel was constructed through these mountains.

It was only in the 1990s that the site of Sima de los Huesos revealed its true antiquity. Excavations are ongoing, attracting archaeologists from all over the globe.

During a guided tour, you will encounter sections hewn from limestone, each representing distinct phases of human evolution.

6. Museum of Human Evolution

Enhance your experience by visiting this attraction before or after Atapuerca. Opened in 2010, the museum features an inventive layout that reconstructs parts of the Atapuerca landscape in its basement, including a 3D representation of Sima de los Huesos.

As you ascend through the exhibits, you will learn about Darwin’s theory of evolution and the insights gained from Atapuerca regarding human development. Not to be missed are ten meticulously crafted sculptures depicting early humans at various developmental stages.

Further up, observe the transformations humans have undergone since prehistoric times and walk through an accurate reproduction of the environment where the early humans of Atapuerca once lived.

7. Miraflores Charterhouse

A short journey into the countryside east of Burgos unveils this exquisite historical site, which is also accessible by foot along the river’s path.

The monastery, dating back to the 15th century, was originally a hunting lodge for King Juan II, built by his father Enrique III. It remains occupied by monks and showcases stunning late-gothic architecture, adorned with both gothic and renaissance art.

Inside, admire the magnificent high altar, gilded with gold from the Americas, and the beautiful alabaster tombs of Juan II and Isabel of Portugal.

8. Camino de Santiago

Pilgrims have visited Burgos along the historic Way of St. James for centuries as they journey towards the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela.

The approach to the city passes through its industrial areas; however, the portion of the pilgrimage trail that continues eastward through the rolling wheat fields towards León is certainly worth exploring.

The route is marked by distinct scallop shells, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who undertake this significant challenge annually.

9. Casa del Cordón

Located on Plaza de la Libertad, this 15th-century palace was built for the High Constable of Castile, named after the Franciscan cords carved in stone above its entrance.

Currently, the palace houses a bank on the ground floor and exhibition spaces on the upper levels.

This somewhat diminishes its historical importance: shortly after its construction, the Catholic Monarchs Fernando II and Isabel I welcomed Christopher Columbus here upon his return from his second voyage to the New World in 1497.

Notably, King Felipe I passed away in the palace under mysterious circumstances, and it was here in 1515 that the Kingdom of Navarre was officially integrated into the Kingdom of Castile.

10. Paseo del Espolón

Often referred to as “El salón de la ciudad,” this distinguished landscaped promenade on the north bank of the Arlanzón connects the Teatro Principal to the city gate, Arco de Santa María.

Particularly on Sundays, it becomes lively with families dressed elegantly, strolling along this paved pathway.

The promenade features a double row of pollarded plane trees, 19th-century iron gas lamps, and artistic sculptures at regular intervals. Cafés and bars line the upper edge, and approximately halfway along, there lies a charming old carousel, perfect for entertaining younger visitors.

11. Arco de Santa María

One of the twelve original medieval gateways to the city, the Arco de Santa María stands as a grand entryway at the southern side of the bridge of Santa María.

This monumental 15th-century triumphal arch, complete with turrets, features six alcoves dedicated to significant historical figures from the region. Within the structure is a chamber adorned with a coffered ceiling, housing the arcade and gallery where the Burgos Council convened until 1780.

Exhibitions showcasing Burgos’ historical artifacts are frequently held here, including a delicate fragment of Islamic plasterwork from the castle and a Castilian banner intricately embroidered in gold, as well as various items related to El Cid.

12. Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari

This early 15th-century church is situated adjacent to the Camino de Santiago, on Calle de Fernán González. The primary attraction here is the altarpiece, renowned as a masterpiece of Castilian Renaissance art.

Dedicate a good ten minutes to appreciating the intricate details of the carvings, created by the workshop of Simón de Colonia, who is credited with several monuments visible in Burgos today, including the Charterhouse of Miraflores.

A significant portion of the interior was financed by the affluent Polanco family, whose elaborately designed Gothic tombs are also on view. Do not miss the Flemish tapestries housed in the church’s museum.

13. Fadrique de Basilea Book Museum

Fadrique de Basilea was one of the most esteemed printers in Burgos during the 15th and 16th centuries. The museum established in his name opened in 2010, displaying facsimiles of some of the most influential books throughout history.

This journey through the written and printed word spans from antiquity through the codices and manuscripts of the Middle Ages, culminating in a pivotal moment in history: Gutenberg’s creation of the printing press.

14. Bodegas Portia

This winery, located an hour north of Burgos, belongs to the Ribera del Duero D.O. and stands as a destination in its own right, thanks to its building designed by British architect Norman Foster.

Typically, advance arrangements are necessary for a guided tour of the facility, though during less busy times, walk-ins may be permitted. Portia offers a striking contrast to the traditional bodegas, showcasing an ultra-modern facility in both design and winemaking techniques.

Visitors will observe massive metallic vats, an oak barrel aging room, and a storage area stacked with thousands of bottles. The experience concludes with a tasting session featuring delectable tapas.

15. Regional Cuisine

When discussing Burgos, many Spaniards immediately think of morcilla, a type of blood sausage that is enjoyed throughout the country.

This dish is crafted from pig’s blood, butter, onion, and rice, and is often served as thinly sliced disks fried until golden on crusty bread as a tapa. Inland areas in Spain also emphasize meat in the diet, particularly during winter, with roasted suckling pig or lamb serving as comfort food against the cold.

Another local delicacy is Burgos Cheese, which is renowned for its white, gelatinous texture derived from sheep’s milk, making it ideal for salads or as a dessert paired with honey and quince.