Villafaranca del Bierzo is a place of good food and good wine, but above all, it has one of the most picturesque sights of all the towns on the Camino. As we follow the descending road on arrival, we can see the beauty of the surrounding high mountains and the river running down below.
Once, this town had eight monasteries and six hostels for pilgrims, being a logical stop before climbing the steep slopes of O Cebreiro. It was Alfonso VI, who ordered Franks to settle the area. This is where its name originates from.
Besides its beautiful landscape, Villafaranca de Bierzo has several attractions to marvel at. One of them is the church of Santiago with the “Puerta del Perdón” (The Gate of Pardon). It is said that if you are too weak or ill to continue your pilgrimage, walking through these doors, you will get indulgences similar to those who walk the whole Camino.
As a guard watching the town, on the highest mountaintop, you can see the Castillo de los Marqueses de Villafarnca, which was built in the 16th century and is now private property.
Accommodation in Villafaranca del Bierzo
| Hotel name | Type | Price range | Room type | Other |
| Viña Femita | Hostel | Budget | Shared rooms | Garden, Terrace, Shared lounge, WiFi, Restaurant |
| Venecia Bed&Breakfast | Bed&Breakfast | Budget | Private rooms, Share rooms with shared bathrooms | Breakfast included, WiFi, Shared lounge, Kitchen, Non-smoking rooms, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms |
| Hostal Cruce | Guest house | Mid-range | Private rooms | WiFi, Non-smoking rooms |
| Micro-Hostal La Puerta del Perdón | Guest house | Mid-range | Private rooms | Breakfast included, Terrace, Non-smoking rooms, WiFi, Bar & Restaurant |
| Hotel Boutique Finca esencial | Hotel | Splurge | Private rooms | Breakfast included, Swimming pool, Garden, Terrace, WiFi |
What to see in Villafranca del Bierzo
Church of San Nicolás
It was built in the 17th century as a Collage of the Society of Jesus by the Jesuits for those who wanted to learn and follow religious life.
Church of Santiago
Built in the 12th century, the most important task of the church was to take care of sick pilgrims, who were not strong enough to reach Santiago de Compostela.
Calle del Agua (Water Street)
It was the busiest and best-known area for pilgrims in Medieval times in Villafranca del Bierzo. The street is full of beautiful baroque townhouses of traders and various craftsmen.