About this experience
You will see the most interesting places of the former capital of the Kingdom of Castile, such as the Burgos Cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, where the legendary El Cid Campeador rests, the national hero of Spain from the 12th century and a constant figure in Spanish folk epics. Learn about the history of the Way of Saint James and how it influenced the city's appearance and life. Finally, you will taste the best local dishes in a traditional restaurant.
What to expect
Traces of the capital of the medieval kingdom
Burgos - the head of Castile, as the Spaniards call it, recalling the times when this city was the capital of the Kingdom of Castile and essentially where the history of all of Spain began. Today it is the capital of the eponymous province, the city still retains its medieval charm, and is famous primarily for its ancient 13th-century Gothic cathedral, a true treasure of Spanish architecture protected by UNESCO. During the tour, you will learn the most important and interesting facts that will help you better understand the history of the region and its role in the country's historical path.
History of the pilgrimage Way of Saint James
Burgos lies on the route of the Camino de Santiago, which has left its mark on monuments from different eras: medieval hostels, hospitals for pilgrims, churches, and chapels, as well as in the very form of the city, which stretches from east to west along the pilgrimage road. Here you can still meet numerous pilgrims who gather strength in ancient pilgrim shelters. While walking through Burgos, you will learn the details of the famous Way and see the objects directly related to it.
The most beautiful and interesting places in the city
We will stroll through the old quarter of Burgos, where well-preserved medieval buildings are concentrated. You will see the palace where Columbus had an audience at the end of the 15th century after his return from the second expedition to America with the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. I will tell you about the Spanish national hero of the 15th century - every child in Spain knows Burgos as the city of El Cid, who was born in the surroundings of Burgos. You will also visit the church where El Cid made the king swear on the Bible.
In addition, we will walk along the Espolon boulevard, which runs along the picturesque Arlanzon River, with its lace music pergola and terraces of summer cafes, pass through the solemn Santa Maria Arch - the former city gates in the surrounding city wall, inside which an unexpected museum is hidden. We will climb to the ruins of the Burgos Castle, which was once an impregnable fortress in the fight against the Moors and is now transformed into a beautiful recreational area for the townspeople, from the observation platform of which magnificent views of the city can be seen.
Lunch at a traditional restaurant
At the end of the walk, you will be able to have lunch at a restaurant in Burgos, located in a historic 15th-century building that served as the city's first printing workshop. In this restaurant, you will immerse yourself in a special atmosphere: the waiters are dressed in national costumes, and the windows offer a beautiful view of the cathedral. Burgos was awarded the title of the "Gastronomic Capital of Spain 2013", and you will see that it truly deserved this title.
Castilian cuisine is very hearty and is famous for its cocido based on legumes and milk-fed lamb baked in a wood-burning oven, all accompanied by expressive red wines from Ribera del Duero.
Program Additions
Atapuerca Cave
Upon prior agreement, we can complement the excursion with a trip to the suburbs of Burgos, the Atapuerca Cave, a true "Cradle of Humanity" protected by UNESCO. Discoveries in the Atapuerca Cave, in terms of the quality, quantity, and variety of human remains, are the best in the world. Some of the findings date back one and a half million years. Remains of Homo Antecessor (Predecessor Man), the first inhabitant of the Iberian Peninsula and following the Neanderthal Homo Heidelbergensis, have been discovered here.
Additionally, if desired, we can visit the 15th-century Miraflores Monastery (4 km from the city) and the active 12th-century Las Huelgas Monastery (30 minutes walk from the center of Burgos).
Organizational Details
Not included in the price:
- transfer from the hotel to the starting point of the tour
- lunch, drinks
- entrance tickets to museums and the Burgos Cathedral - 7 euros (additional program)
- cave entrance ticket - 80 euros for a group of 1-4 people
