The best things to do in Burgos lean heavily towards the religious as this is an important step on the Pilgrim’s Way of Saint James, famed for the many historic and religious buildings it hosts. The historical importance of the city where Spanish hero El Cid was born can be seen throughout the landmarks that dot its Old Town. With a splendid Gothic-style cathedral and a castle that overlooks the city, the whole place has a pleasant timeless atmosphere.

Besides the many landmarks, you’ll find everything that makes Spain so attractive in Burgos: good local food and wines and a laid-back ambience, especially during the sacred siesta between 2 pm and 5 pm.

What are the best things to do in Burgos?

  • 1

    Burgos Cathedral

    One of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain

    Burgos Cathedral
    • History

    Officially named the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos, Burgos Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 13th century. Take the well-made audio guide before you start your visit, and enjoy the splendid ornamentations and refined stone carvings of this massive Gothic-style edifice. Don’t miss Spanish Hero El Cid’s burial place. We recommend that you bring a jumper as the cathedral can be quite cool inside.

    Location: Plaza de Santa María, s/n, 09003 Burgos, Spain

    Phone: +34 947 20 47 12

    Map
  • 2

    Monasterio de Las Huelgas

    Visit a Romanesque monastery filled with historical and religious artifacts

    Monasterio de Las Huelgas
    • History

    The Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas is a Cistercian monastery founded at the end of the 12th century. Listed as a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest, it houses a museum dedicated to medieval textiles, many royal tombs, and a unique 14th-century music manuscript. Take a guided tour to get all the interesting historical details while enjoying the serene and timeless atmosphere.

    Location: Pl. Compás, s/n, 09001 Burgos, Spain

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 10.30 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 5.30 pm, Sunday from 10.30 am to 2 pm

    Phone: +34 947 20 60 45

    Map

    photo by Zackds (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 3

    Plaza Mayor

    Take the pulse of Burgos in its most popular square

    Plaza Mayor
    • Couples
    • Families
    • History
    • Photo

    Plaza Mayor is the most popular meeting point in Burgos. Roughly shaped like a hexagon and covering around 6,000 sq m, Plaza Mayor is flanked by boutiques, bars and restaurants. Their terraces make great people-watching spots while you restfully sip your morning coffee. The central position of Plaza Mayor in Burgos Old Town also makes it a convenient starting point for your exploration of the historic neighbourhood.

    Location: Pl. Mayor, 09003 Burgos, Spain

    Map
  • 4

    Burgos Historic Centre

    Wander around the oldest neighbourhood of the historic capital of Castile

    Burgos Historic Centre
    • History

    Burgos Historic Centre is a pedestrian maze of winding cobblestoned lanes interspersed with squares. Lined with small stores and a great choice of tapas bars and restaurants, it’s filled with historical places of interest like Casa del Cordón, Paseo del Espolón and San Nicolás Church, just to name a few. The streets are spotless and the laid-back Spanish atmosphere makes the Old Town really pleasant to stroll around.

    Map
  • 5

    Museum of Human Evolution

    Discover our human ancestors in a contemporary-style museum

    Museum of Human Evolution
    • Families
    • History

    The Museum of Human Evolution (locally known as Museo de la Evolución Humana) is housed in a modern building that overlooks the River Arlanzón from its south bank. As you progress to the upper floors of the museum, you move forward through time, following the advances of humankind. Take the audio guide at the ticket desk and learn a lot about our ancestors from Homo antecessor to Homo sapiens.

    Location: P.º Sierra de Atapuerca, S/N, 09002 Burgos, Spain

    Open: Tuesday–Friday from 10 am to 2.30 pm and from 4.30 pm to 8 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm

    Phone: +34 947 42 10 00

    Map

    photo by José Luis Filpo Cabana (CC BY 3.0) modified

  • 6

    Mirador del Castillo

    Enjoy a 270-degree view of Burgos

    Mirador del Castillo
    • Couples

    Mirador de Castillo is a lookout that belongs to Burgos Castle. Built on the flank of the hill on which the castle sits, this short circular tower offers a breathtaking panorama over Burgos and its main landmarks. You can easily get there on foot from the Old Town, which is just 200 metres away. Go for the sunset and enjoy a drink at la Ciudadela, the restaurant adjacent to the viewpoint.

    Location: C. San Esteban, 24, 09003 Burgos, Spain

    Map
  • 7

    Burgos Old Town nightlife

    Have a drink at one of Burgos popular night spots

    Burgos Old Town nightlife
    • Couples

    Burgos Old Town is the place to have a drink at night. Head to Cerveceria Flandes, on Calle Huerto del Rey, to sample a wide selection of beers and ciders in a cosy atmosphere. If you like rock music, do not miss Jarra'N'Heavy located on the same street. For a clubbing atmosphere, you should go to Cooper Club on Calle Fernan Gonzalez. The place plays New Wave classics and serves excellent cocktails in a friendly ambience.

  • 8

    Casa Quintanilla

    Find delicious local foods in a quaint vintage store

    Casa Quintanilla
    • Families
    • History

    Casa Quintanilla is the right place to go if you want to sample local snacks. Established since 1880 on Calle Paloma, a stroll away from Plaza Mayor, you feel like you’ve travelled back in time as soon as you enter the store. Burgos’ black pudding – Morcilla – and Burgos' famous fresh cheese are available here, but you’ll also find a wide range of locally produced wines, oils, and dried meats. Do not miss the Quintanilla chocolate if you have a sweet tooth.

    Location: C. Paloma, 17, 09003 Burgos, Spain

    Open: Monday–Saturday from 5 am to 8.30 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm

    Phone: +34 947 20 25 35

    Map
  • 9

    Jorge Revilla Jewellery

    Shop for unique sterling silver creations at a Burgos-born designer’s boutique

    Jorge Revilla Jewellery
    • Couples
    • Luxury

    If you’d like to offer a unique piece of jewellery to your loved one or simply want to indulge yourself, head to Jorge Revilla store on Calle Paloma. The shop is tiny and located right next Burgos Cathedral in the Old Town. Jorge Revilla is a world-famous jewellery designer born in Burgos. He designs sterling silver collections inspired by the cross-culturalism inherent to Spain throughout its history.

    Location: C. Paloma, 29, 09003 Burgos, Spain

    Phone: +34 947 27 40 40

    Map
Stephan Audiger | Compulsive Traveller