9 Best Things to Do in Burgos

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.

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.

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 neighborhood.

Burgos Historic Center 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.

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.

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 meters away. Go for the sunset and enjoy a drink at la Ciudadela, the restaurant adjacent to the viewpoint.

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 cozy 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.

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 traveled 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.

If you’d like to offer a unique piece of jewelry 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 jewelry designer born in Burgos. He designs sterling silver collections inspired by the cross-culturalism inherent to Spain throughout its history.