10 essential monuments you have to see in Burgos no matter what
Today we get straight to the point. We give you all the keys to make your getaway to the capital of Burgos unforgettable. A complete tour of all the essential monuments to see in Burgos. In total, we will discover the secrets of 10 magnificent architectural gems that make Burgos a must-stop for any traveler worth their salt. We warn you, whoever comes to visit us always comes back.
Burgos is a perfect city to visit on a weekend. Small, pleasant, with a good atmosphere and a centuries-old history. Its streets invite you to long walks where you only have to worry about taking the best snapshot. Not every day can you visit a Historic Quarter recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, with a fascinating past and a bright future.
ESSENTIAL MONUMENTS IN BURGOS
Cathedral of Burgos
Photo: Victor Fernández Salinas [/caption>
It was clear that it had to be the first on the list. Harmony and beauty in equal parts in the most emblematic Gothic building in the city and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain. For us, the most beautiful, of course.
Don’t just stay with its evident exterior beauty because inside it holds authentic treasures and many surprises. In addition to the Main Chapel and the impressive Lantern, you will be amazed by the Golden Staircase, the Chapel of the Constable, the Cloister, and be surprised by the Papamoscas. Dedicate a good amount of time to this visit because it is worth it.
Arco de Santamaría
Photo: cainSan
Beautiful to the core. It is one of the 12 entrances that existed in the ancient walled city and has survived to this day. It looks like a castle and in its niches it houses the figures of Charles V, El Cid, and Fernán González, among others, presided over at the top by the sculpture of Santa María. The view it offers along with the Puente de Santa María and the Paseo del Espolón is one of the most beautiful sights you can see in the city.
Plaza Mayor
Photo: Jim Anzalone
Elegant, colorful, and the neuralgic center of the city. The architectural ensemble that makes up the Plaza Mayor is a mix of centuries-old buildings that form an octagonal porticoed corridor. Standing out above all is the neoclassical Town Hall. The best way to enjoy this place is to sit at one of its numerous terraces, watch the hustle and bustle, or enter one of its traditional shops.
Puente de San Pablo
Photo: Oscar Espiritusanto Nicolás
The figure of our most illustrious character, El Cid Campeador, is very present throughout the city but especially on the Puente de San Pablo. Just before entering it, we come across a large bronze statue of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar on horseback. A good prelude to what we are going to find next. The Puente de San Pablo, in addition to offering wonderful views of the city (the sunsets from here are incredible), is guarded by 8 limestone figures that correspond to the most important characters mentioned in the Cantar del Mío Cid.
Offer: weekend with discount!
At the Hotel Ciudad de Burgos we have thought of everything and we want to make it easier for you on your getaway. That’s why we offer special offers for weekend stays so you don’t miss anything on this list. You can get up to a 20% discount on your reservation.
Church of San Nicolás de Bari
Photo: Viajeros 3.0
The sober exterior of this temple, one of the oldest in the city, does not give away the incredible beauty that we will find inside. The main altarpiece is one of the most impressive you can find in the entire city. And it’s not for lack of churches in Burgos. It is a work of art sculpted in limestone that depicts different biblical scenes. Its proximity to the Cathedral means that this temple goes unnoticed, but it is a must-see.
Church of San Lesmes
Photo: Germán Yagüe
Let’s visit another church no less important than the previous one. San Lesmes is the patron saint of our city and lies buried within the walls of this beautiful Gothic church on the banks of the Vena River. In addition to the saint’s tomb, the main altarpiece, the pulpit, and the Plateresque choir stand out. Next to the Church of San Lesmes is another monument that is worth visiting, the ruins of the Monastery of San Juan. It has a lot of charm and has been recently restored. A true essential of Burgos.
Walls and Castle of Burgos
Photo: El Coleccionista de Instantes
The French troops, fleeing the city in the 19th century, left us a castle in ruins. Even so, there is no tourist visit to Burgos that does not pass through the Castle. Today, guided tours can be taken through its walls and underground galleries, and admire the best views of the city from the Castle’s viewpoint. But we also recommend taking a walk along some stretches of wall and gates that are still in perfect condition, like the one located on Paseo de los Cubos.
Casa del Cordón
Photo: Lumiago
It is the Palace of the Constables of Castilla, popularly called Casa del Cordón. This name comes from the Franciscan cord that decorates the main door. It is important both for its beautiful artistic work and for the historical events that took place inside. In this place, Felipe El Hermoso lost his life and also welcomed Christopher Columbus after his second voyage. But this palace was constantly frequented by kings, imagine all the stories that its walls hold. Today it houses an exhibition center and some beautiful bank offices.
Monastery of las Huelgas
Photo: El Coleccionista de Instantes
We move away from the Historic Center of Burgos to visit the Monastery of Santa María la Real de las Huelgas. This monastery of Cistercian nuns organizes guided tours every day. Just to see the royal tombs and the cloisters will have made the trip worthwhile, but there is much more to discover and you just have to find it. It is truly beautiful.
Cartuja de Miraflores
Photo: Turol Jones
We now take a short car journey (you can also do it by bike) that will take us to the entrance of another essential monument of Burgos. Surrounded by forests and nature, it seems like we have been transported to a place where time stands still. And something similar happens inside. Needless to say, the whole visit is worth it, but the most spectacular part is the octagonal alabaster sepulcher of Juan II and Isabel of Portugal. Burgos was a city of kings, that is very clear.
Is one of your favorite monuments missing from this list? Of course. Burgos has much more to offer and visit. You just have to come and discover it, and we will be happy to help.