Are you thinking of visiting the capital of Burgos and don’t know where to start? If this is your first time in our city, from Hotel Corona de Castilla we tell you what to visit in Burgos to enjoy all its dimensions: its rich history, its wonderful architecture and its unforgettable gastronomy. Thanks to our privileged location, you will be able to enjoy all these attractions just a short walk away from the centre of Burgos and its cathedral.
8 essential places to vitit in Burgos
1) Burgos Cathedral
In the heart of the city, just a few steps from our hotel in Burgos, stands the Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de Santa María since 1221, considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the cathedrals in our country and one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, it is well worth a visit both inside and out, where spectacular stained glass windows and chapels with works of great artistic value await the traveller. Its main attractions are the dome by Juan de Vallejo, dating from 1539, and the Chapel of the Condestable, the work of Simón de Colonia, considered a transitional work between the last stages of Gothic architecture (flamboyant Gothic and an incipient Renaissance). Don’t miss the Golden Staircase and the main clock, which has 18th-century automatons that chime the bells: the Papamoscas and the Martinillo.
2) The statue of El Cid Campeador
Did you know that the famous Castilian hero Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar was born just 5 kilometres from Burgos? His story, immortalised in the Cantar del mio Cid, is closely linked to this city. In fact, he and his wife Doña Jimena are buried in the cathedral.
In the Plaza de Mío Cid, just in front of the Bridge of San Pablo, you will find a bronze statue commemorating the exploits of the Campeador. If you are interested in this historical and literary figure, be sure to visit the church of Santa Águeda, the scene of the famous legend of the Jura de Santa Gadea, in which the Cid forced King Alfonso VI el Bravo to promise not to take part in the plot against Sancho II el Fuerte.
3) Museum of Human Evolution
Burgos is a major setting for the Spanish Middle Ages, but there is actually evidence of settlement in the area dating back to the Neolithic period. What to see in Burgos to connect with its rich history? At the Museum of Human Evolution you will find some of the original fossils found in the archaeological sites of the Sierra de Atapuerca, such as the skull of Miguelón, an individual of the species homo heidelbergensis, the Elvis pelvis and reproductions of the Hominid Gallery. The building itself, designed by Juan Navarro Baldeweg, is of great interest to architecture lovers.
4) The arch of Santa María
If you enjoy wandering around cities to get to know them better, one of the best plans for you if you are wondering what to visit in Burgos is to walk along the Paseo del Espolón, a beautiful tree-lined avenue laid out at the end of the 18th century. On this promenade you will find the majestic Arch of Santa María, a Renaissance construction in limestone on whose façade you can see several statues of historical figures linked to the city, including the Emperor Charles V and Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, the Cid Campeador.
5) Casa del Cordón
One of the most iconic squares to see in Burgos is the Plaza de la Libertad, where the palace of the Constables of Castile, better known as the Casa del Cordón, stands. It is a civil building in the Gothic style built in the 15th century by the Counts of Haro. It takes its name from the Franciscan cordon that can be seen on its façade. The scene of important historical events, this palace witnessed the meeting between the Catholic Monarchs and Christopher Columbus on his return from his second voyage to America.
6) San Lorenzo / Los Herreros Street
If, between visits, you want to try the local food, the best thing to do is to go through the streets of San Lorenzo (known as Los Herreros), Calle Sombrerería, La Flora and Avellanos. Or even the Paseo del Espolón itself. You will find a wide range of gastronomic options for lunch, tapas or dinner. Our recommendation is to try the black pudding and suckling lamb, two of our city’s star dishes.
7) Miraflores Charterhouse
The Miraflores Charterhouse, located just three kilometres from the centre of Burgos, is an essential stop for lovers of history, art and spirituality. This majestic 15th-century Gothic monastery, founded as a royal pantheon, houses unrivalled architectural and artistic gems. Inside the monastery are the exquisitely sculpted alabaster tombs of the parents of Isabella the Catholic, and an imposing main altarpiece by Gil de Siloe, gilded with gold brought by Christopher Columbus.
8) Monastery of Las Huelgas
The Monastery of Santa María la Real de las Huelgas, another of the monuments to visit in Burgos, is an essential destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in medieval history and architecture. Founded by Alfonso VIII and Leonor of Aquitaine as a royal pantheon and retreat for noblewomen, this enclave combines Cistercian art with Mudejar elements. Its treasures include the Proto-Gothic monastic church, the late Romanesque ‘Las Claustrillas’, the royal tombs and the impressive Museum of Rich Medieval Fabrics, the only one of its kind in the world. The latter houses royal robes and the emblematic Banner of Navas. A visit that unites spirituality, art and heritage in a unique monumental environment..
Now that you know what to visit in Burgos, the next step is to make your reservation and find a date to enjoy these impressive tourist sites. At Hotel Corona de Castilla, located just a 5-minute walk from the centre of Burgos, with sites such as the Cathedral and the Arch of Santa María, we offer you comfortable rooms equipped with all the comforts.
