Burgos

Burgos Cathedral It is undoubtedly the jewel of the city and the only cathedral in Spain to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its Gothic architecture and the elegance and harmony of its design will leave you impressed. Don't forget to admire its 84-metre-high towers, the chapel of the Constables, the elegant Golden Staircase, the tomb of El Cid and his wife Jimena, and the Papamoscas, a curious automaton that rings the bells. MEH. Museum of Human Evolution This modern exhibition space offers a fascinating glimpse into the remains of Homo antecessor, a species that lived nearly a million years ago. These remains were discovered at the nearby Atapuerca archaeological site, one of the most significant in Europe, which you can also explore. This site is essential for understanding the evolution of humankind. Monastery of Santa María Real de las Huelgas Created as a royal pantheon and retreat for women of the nobility and aristocracy, it was founded in 1187 by King Alfonso VIII and his wife Leonor. Its Gothic cloister and the chapel of the Apostle James are particularly noteworthy. Miraflores Charterhouse Here, you will discover extraordinary Gothic funerary sculptures dedicated to the parents and brother of Queen Isabella I of Castile. Also essential is the altarpiece that presides over the church, the work of Gil de Siloé, one of the greatest figures of 15th century Spanish sculpture. Castle The city of Burgos has its origins in this monument, in the year 884. Although there are few remains of the fortress, from its walls and the nearby viewpoint you will get an incredible panoramic view of the city and its Cathedral. It is currently closed for renovations. The Arch of Santa Maria and the Plaza Mayor No visit to the city would be complete without stopping at these two landmarks. The Arco de Santa María is an ancient medieval gate that leads you into the heart of Burgos, and the Plaza Mayor is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and a treat at a pastry shop, surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Burgos' gastronomy is one of the city's greatest highlights. It has been named the "Spanish Capital of Gastronomy" and has been included in UNESCO's Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy. Among its most emblematic dishes, you'll find roast suckling lamb – incredibly tender and juicy – or fresh Burgos cheese, which you can taste both as an ingredient in local dishes or as a dessert. Another option to enjoy the delicacies of this land is to try tapas, a very popular custom. A gastronomic tour of the city would be incomplete without stops on the streets of Sombrerería, San Lorenzo or Avellano and in the Plaza de la Flora. You can choose between innovative restaurants awarded with Michelin Stars or traditional inns. 

The best way to enjoy shopping in Burgos is to wander through the city centre, where you’ll discover charming independent shops, century-old establishments, artisan crafts, gourmet treats and regional specialties. Every year, the iconic Paseo del Espolón hosts the National Craft Trades Fair, where you can find leather goods, glassware, jewellery and more, as well as the chance to attend live workshops. Other places in the city that are recommended for shopping are the Gamonal neighbourhood, where shops and artist communities have created several examples of urban art.

Burgos is well connected by both road and rail. If you are travelling by car, you can easily get there from places like Madrid (about two hours away via the A1) or the Basque Country (about two and a half hours away via the AP1). The bus station is located in the city centre, less than 10 minutes from the Cathedral and the Museum of Evolution. The city also has a train station that connects to several major cities such as Madrid, Valladolid and Bilbao and offers mid-distance and high-speed trains.