León is a city arising from the Roman camp of Legion VII Gemina. Even the “El Codex Calixtinus” describes León as a “city full of all types of goods”.
Being a popular stop among pilgrims, no less than sixteen hospitals used to serve them. The most famous ones were those of San Froilán, San Marcelo, and San Marcos.
One should not leave León without taking a walk in the splendid inner city of marvelous monuments and narrow streets. One of those is the Cathedral of León, a masterpiece of the Spanish gothic style, designed by French architects in the 13th century. Its glorious long windows are dazzling in the sun. You cannot get enough of this sight.
Accommodation in León
| Hotel name | Type | Price range | Room type | Other |
| Albergue Santo Tomás de Canterbury | Albergue | Budget | Shared rooms | Facilities for disabled guests, WiFi, Bar, Garden, Children’s playground |
| Albergue Muralla Leonesa | Albergue | Mid-range | Family rooms, Rooms with shared bathrooms | Terrace, Kitchen, Shared lounge, WiFi |
| Hostal Bayón | Guest house | Budget | Private rooms with shared bathrooms | Breakfast included, WiFi |
| Pensión Blanca B&B | Pension | Mid-range | Private rooms, Twin rooms with shared bathrooms | Breakfast included, WiFi, Shared living, Kitchen |
| Palacete Colonial | Hotel | Splurge | Private rooms | Breakfast included, Terrace, WiFi |
| Parador de Turismo de León | Hotel | Splurge | Private rooms | Breakfast included, The rooms include a balcony, WiFi |
What to see in León
Cathedral of León
Built-in the 13th-14th century the cathedral is a beautiful example of classic gothic architecture flourishing in those centuries. Architects were inspired by Chartres, Rheims, and Amiens cathedrals, which are clearly seen in both structure and decoration. Near the main entrance, we find the image of St. James, where pilgrims often pray or rest their heads. Stepping inside the cathedral, we can marvel at the fascinating light phenomenon, let it through Spain’s most beautiful stained glass rose window.
Collegiate church of San Isidoro
The collegiate church is a mixture of several buildings from different time periods. Originally a small chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist was standing in its place which was later destroyed in the war. It was not much later that Fernando l ordered to build a burial place for himself and his wife on the same site and since then, the building has undergone several alterations. Its two main features Puerta del Perdon (forgiveness) and Puerta del Cordero (The Lamb) were built in 1513.
The Medieval City
The streets between Plaza Mayor and Plaza del Mercado represent the oldest historical part of León. This is where you find the “wet district” where all the pubs, restaurants, and bars can be found, a place for great entertainment. This area has completely preserved its medieval layout even the street names represent old crafts and trades.