Category Archives: Tours and Guides

León: What to see in Leon city (Spain)

February 24, 2014León, Tours and GuidesManu

The city of León (which means Lion) is situated in the north-west of Spain, in Castile and Leon region, in a strategic place between the Bernesga and the Torío rivers which flow through the city just before its confluence.

Being one city about 140,000 inhabitants, Leon city has a lot to offer in cultural attractions, architecture, and entertainments, such as its Cathedral the most remarkable building of Leon; Roman Walls, Basilica of San Isidoro, San Marcos monastery, museums, traditional cuisine, restaurants, cafés, leisure areas, a medieval casco (medieval neighborhood) among other things. Besides, we cannot forget that Leon is a destination of the pilgrims who do the Saint James way before arriving in Santiago de Compostela.

León was founded as a wall camp called Legion in the first century before Christ by the Romans. Ten centuries later the king of Asturias y León Ordoño II (8??-924) chosen León as capital of his kingdom. However, in 1230 Fernando III king of Castilla y León (1199-1252) known as the Santo ( Saint) united both kingdoms of León and Castilla and Burgos was the capital of his kingdom.

Visiting León city (Spain)

The best way to explore the city is on foot, therefore, a enjoyable walk might start at the Regla square popularly known as the Cathedral square strolling through its surroundings the Cubos avenue (The Cubes), San Lorenzo and Cardenal Landazuri streets walkers can enjoy all facades of the Cathedral and Roman Walls also known as The Cubos which was constructed about the 3th century by the Romans and the Medieval Walls built in the 14th century.

The medieval casco (neighborhood) with most places within walking distance of center is the most popular area of León its pedestrian streets and squares such as the picturesque Santa María del Camino square also called Plaza del Grano is well worth a visit; The historic Plaza Mayor (the Main square) which impress visitors with its Edificio Mirador (Lookout Building) from 17th century, besides, the lively Plaza Mayor square is the best meeting point to make friends at the weekends and nightlife; Mariano Domingue de Berrueta, and the Ancha streets, the San Marcelo and the Conde Luna squares and surroundings plenty of restaurants, cafés, pubs, cafeterias and shops attract citizens and tourists. All of them take 5 minutes on foot from the Cathedral.

Basilica de San Isidoro (Saint Isidoro Basilica), which has 3 naves and was constructed in the 12th century, is regarded as one of the most important Romanesque churches in Spain . Its main and its south facades in Romanesque style, its altarpiece in the main chapel, its choir from 15th century. Tourists must not miss out on this Basilica which is located at 4 San Isidoro square to 5 minutes on foot from the Cathedral.

In the city center: the elegant Santo Domingo square is rounded by interesting buildings (the León Museum and the San Marcelo church); the Ordoño II avenue comes alive with shops, restaurants, cafés; in San Marcelo square visitors can see the amazing Casa Botines (Botines house) built about 1893 by the architect Antoni Gaudi i Cornet (1852 -1926). All of them take 5 minutes from the Cathedral.

Parador de San Marcos (Saint Marcos tourist hotel of 5 stars), which is located at 7 San Marcos square near Bernesga river, was built between 16th and 18th century in Gothic-Plateresque style and it is considered to be one of the longest Renaissance facade in Spain (it measures more than 87 meters in length), There are also a interesting archaeological museum and a beautiful Gothic church from 16th century. Visitors should not leave León without admiring this building. It takes 18 minutes on foot from the Cathedral. Moreover, there are also the MUSAC (the Art Leon y Castilla Museum), the Auditorio de Leon (Leon Concert Hall) and Building Europe in this modern neighborhood.

In addition, León has many parks with excellent facilities for sport and recreation, its riverside is the perfect place to spend the free time, By the way, other tourist attraction in León is that most people are used to going out eating its famous and delicious tapas, drinking some beer or wine and enjoying its friendly atmosphere every day. Tourists should not miss out Leon city when they visit Spain.

The Cathedral of Leon

Saint Mary Cathedral was built on the site of a previous church between the 13th and 15th centuries in Gothic style, being really one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain and Europe it is considered to be a Gothic masterpiece. In fact, its more than 125 colorful stained glass windows and its three large stained glass rose windows are viewed as some of the finest stained glass windows in the world.

Read more about the cathedral in this post: Santa Maria de la Regla Cathedral (Catedral de León).

More places to visit near Leon city

– Castile and Leon: Read the best places and cities to visit in this spanish region, as Salamanca or Segovia.

– The best cities to visit in Spain: Here you have a list with the most touristic cities of the country. 🙂

Visiting the best beaches of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)

February 24, 2014Beach, mountain and nature, Canary Islands / Islas Canarias, Tours and GuidesJorge

In this article we are going to talk about the best beaches to go in Gran Canaria, the third biggest island of the Canary Islands with 1500 square kilometers (the biggest one is Tenerife with 2000 square kilometers and then Fuerteventura with 1600km^2).

The Canary Islands: A Tropical Paradise

The Canary Islands (Islas Canarias) are a group of Spanish islands located in the west coast of Africa, at the south of the Iberian Peninsula. They are composed by these seven islands: Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Palma, Lanzarote, El Hierro and La Gomera.

The tropical weather of the Canary Islands, its beaches and nature make them a holiday paradise where tourists from all over the world (but mainly from Europe) go there to rest in all seasons of the year.

Gran Canaria island

Gran Canaria is not a conventional island: Its geography and its proximity to Africa creates a strange climate where, while in the north of the island (where is located Las Palmas city) the climate varies between 30 ºC in summer and 15 ºC in winter, in the south (where is located Maspalomas, Puerto Rico and Mogán) the climate is always warm, which means that visitors can sunbathe or go swimming during the four seasons of the year.

Maspalomas zone

At the the south of Gran Canaria is located Maspalomas town, the most touristic zone of the island. It is completely focused on the visitors, with a lot of hotels, apartments, restaurants and amenities.

Among the activities that you can do there, there are the following: sunbathe, swimming, surfing, rent a boat or canoe… Other activities that you can do in the island is to go underwater on submarine, to dive, to visit the attraction parks or to visit the mountains in the central part of the island.

Playa del Inglés (The English’ beach)

In Maspalomas, you have to visit Playa del Inglés: This beach is the biggest beach of the island and has a perfect climate (between 20 and 30ºC) all the year. This beach is located at the south of the island and has a huge extension of sand which is always full of people.

Also the beach has a nudist area and a gay zone, but it’s only in a small part of the beach.

Other beaches in the south-east of the island are the next ones: San Agustín Beach, Pozo Izquierdo beach, Arinaga beach (at Vecindario town) and Vargas beach (at Ingenio town).

Las Dunas de Maspalomas (The dunes)

Between El Inglés beach and the lighthouse of Maspalomas, you will see this wide zone of dunes. By climbing them, you will be able to see all the coast of Playa del Inglés.

On the other side of the dunes, there are placed Maspalomas beach and Meloneras beach.

Puerto Rico (the Spanish seaside village)

Puerto Rico town (don’t mistake with the south American Puerto Rico country) is another touristic zone in the south of Gran Canaria in where you can enjoy its beach and its landscape.

It is located not far away from Maspalomas, in a sheer zone which has forced its citizens to build their houses in the mountain slopes, creating an impressive perspective.

Puerto de Mogán (Mogan Port)

Mogan is another town in the south of the island. In its port you will see the Seaport and more beaches as Mogán, Taurito and Veneguera. Besides, in Puerto de Mogán there is a restaurant zone is its promenade, ideal if you want to eat something while seeing the sea.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (The capital city of the islands)

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital city of the Canary Islands. With almost 400,000 inhabitants this is the biggest city of the islands.

As Las Palmas is in the north of the island, the climate is colder in winter, however this city has a lot of activity, especially for young people who will find a lot of discotheques, Erasmus people and many more.

The main beach of the city is called Playa de las Canteras (The quarry beach)

The Port of Agaete

Finally, Agaete is a seaside village located in the north-west of the island, famous for having a rock formation called El dedo de Dios (El Roque Partido). In Agaete you will find the beach Playa de las Nieves.

More places to visit in the island

There are many more towns in the north and in the center of Gran Canaria (Arucas, Firgas, Moya, Galdar, Punta de Sardina, Teror, Valleseco…), but they are less touristic than the south ones. Also, in the centre of the island there are some interesting areas to do excursions through it mountains, as the famous Roque Nublo or some towns as Santa Lucía, Tejeda or San Baetolomé de Tinaja.

– Nature and inland towns to visit in Gran Canaria: Check here more touristic places to visit in Gran Canaria!

– Gastronomy and typical food: Our post with the typical food of the Canary Islands.

Top World Heritage sites in Spain

February 23, 2014Spain / España, Tips and opinions, Tours and Guidesbestplaces

Here you have a list with the most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites in Spain (Monumentos del Patrimonio de la Humanidad en España de la UNESCO). In the next list you will find the name of the monument, its city, province or region and the year of its inclusion as World Heritage site:

– Barcelona (Catalonia): The Gúell Park and Mila House (The Pedrera), added as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1984. The Catalonian Music Palace (Palau de la música catalana) and The hospital of Sant Pau included in 1997. Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, included in 2005.

– Burgos (Castile Leon): TheCathedral of Burgos, year 1984. Sierra de Artapuerca (Burgos province), included in year 2000.

– Granada (Andalusia): Alhambra and Generalife, added in 1984 . The Albaicín neighborhood in Granada, 1994.

– Cordoba (Andalusia): Mosque of Cordoba, 1984. The Historic city of Córdoba, 1994.

– Sevilla (Andalusia): The Seville cathedral, The quarterdeck (Alcázar) and Archivos de indias, year 1987.

– El Escorial (Madrid region): The Royal Monastery of El Escorial added as World Heritage site in 1984.

– Aranjuez (Madrid region): Cultural landscape of Aranjuez, 2001.

– Alcalá de Henares (Madrid region): University of Alcalá de Henares and Old town, 1998.

– Toledo (Castile La Mancha): The Toledo historic city. Added to UNESCO list in 1986.

– Ávila (Castile Leon): The old city of Ávila and its walls in 1985.

– Segovia (Castile Leon): The Old city of Segovia and its Aqueduct, added as World Heritage sites in 1985.

– Valencia (Valencian region): The Silk market (La Lonja de la Seda), 1996.

– Cantabria region: Altamira caves (Cueva de Altamira), included in 1985.

– Oviedo (Asturias): Churchs (pre-romanesque churchs) 1985, an other monuments in Oviedo, 1998.

– Santiago de Compostela (Galicia): The old city of Santiago, 1985. The Saint James way, 1993.

– Lugo (Galicia): The roman walls, included in year 2000.

– A Coruña (Galicia): Torre de Hércules, 2009.

– Cáceres (Extremadura): The old city of Cáceres in 1986, and Santa Maria de Gudalupe Monastery, 1993.

– Mérida (Extremadura): 29 monuments in Merida and surroundings, included in 1993.

– Salamanca (Castile Leon): The old city of Salamanca, 1988.

– Tarragona (Catalonia): Archaeological complex of Tarragona, year 2000.

– Poblet (Catalonia): Monastery of Poblet, included in 1991.

– Lérida (Catalonia): Romanesque cultural landscape of Valle de Boi (Paisaje cultural románico), 2000.

– Cuenca (Castile La Mancha): The fortified and historic city of Cuenca, 1996.

– La Rioja region: San Millan de Yuso y Suso Monasteries, year 1997.

– Teruel (Aragón): The Mudejal towers and the cathedral roof (techumbre), year 1986.

– Zaragoza (Aragón): The Mudejar art of La Seo Cathedral, Aljaferia Palace and San Pablo church. Included in year 2001.

– Calatayud (Aragón): The Mudejar art of Santa Maria Church (in Cervera de la Cañada), Santa Tecla Chuch (in Tobed village) and Santa Maria Church, year 2001.

– Mediterranean rupestrian art of the Iberian Peninsula (arte rupestre de la cuenca mediterranea), included in 1998.

– Bilbao (Basque Country): Puente de Vizcaya, year 2006.

– Úbeda y Baeza towns (Jaén, Andalusia): Declared in World Heritage sites the 3rd of July 2003.

– Ibiza island (Balearic islands): Ibiza biodiversity and culture, 1999.

– San Cristobal de la Laguna (Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands): Included as World Heritage site in 1999.

Read also our list with t he best cities and destinations in Spain, and the top monuments of Spain.

A Coruña: What to visit in La Coruña city (Galicia)

February 9, 2014A coruña, Beach, mountain and nature, Tours and GuidesManu

Situated on the north-west coast of Spain (Galicia) between the sheltered inlet of the Cantabrian Sea (Ría da Coruña, Rías Altas ) and the Atlantic Ocean, its history goes back to the prehistoric Celtic times (Celtas), A Coruña (La Coruña) city covers the Coruña Peninsula and its isthmus. Moreover, the city has also been expanded and widened toward the mainland for years. In fact, with a population of about 250,000 it is one of the largest and most important cities in Galicia region.

A Coruña is not only popular with the tourists because its lighthouse, its new Outer Port (Puerto Exterior), its Inner Port (Puerto Interior), its tasty seafood, its great beaches but also its architecture, its museums, its parks, and above all, its promenade (Paseo Marítimo) which is 10 km. in length. Evidently, A Coruña has a lot of to offer visitors in the way of entertainment.

What to visit in A Coruña

Taking a walk along the promenade (Paseo Maritimo) from east to north, on the right, people can see several cruise ships, many boats on the historic Inner Port of A Coruña on the Cantabrian Sea Ría da Coruña) and Sant Antón castle dates from 17th century to east of the isthmus. This important port welcomes tourists who arrive in A Coruña by sea. On the left some interesting buildings, parks and the renowned solana ( galleries or balconies of the buildings are closed with glasses or their facades cover in glasses ) from 19th century. In this area, the tourists can enjoy the old city strolling through its streets, they will find the landmark María Pita square, where is the City Hall a beautiful building from 18th century, in this area are some of the main restaurants and bares of the city; Saint George (San Jorge) church nearby; the San Agustin market; Romanesque Santa María del Campo church about 14th century; Santiago church the oldest Romanesque bulding in A Coruña dates from 12th century. Following the walk visitors will come across some interesting buildings and several of the most lively and traditional places to have a drink and tapas.

Crossing the isthmus people will arrive at the west of A Coruña peninsula where are the sandy beaches of Riazor and Orzan which are washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Being a popular tourist destination, A Coruña has a wide range of sport activities from diving, surf, sailing, windsurf, fishing to multiple activities for all the family. The large and clean beaches and seafood are the main attraction for tourists in A Coruña. By the way, it is said that in A Coruña often rains, However the rain does not last long. It is only a shower

Going on holiday to A Coruña is a unique experience of enjoying its fresh seafood and the famous tapas. Do not miss out tasting its traditional seafood. However, people should not leave A Coruña without spending some hours wandering about its city center, meeting people, having a drink, at the cafés or pubs, the city really comes alive during the night.

Tower of Hércules

The lighthouse called the Tower of Hércules, which was built in the 2nd century when Trajan was Roman Emperor (53-117) and restored and covered in Neoclassical style in the 18th century, is the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world that is still working. Being the most remarkable building of A Coruña, the Hércules Tower is sited on a hill to 57 meters over sea level and about 49 meters in height, in a strategic point to the north of the A Coruña Peninsula by Artabro Gulf. Therefore, this lighthouse was declared a World Heritage site on the 27th June 2009 by UNESCO.

Nowadays, the Roman remains of the tower can be seen inside the lighthouse which were not covered during its restoration. Besides, if visitors have plenty of time, they will enjoy climbing the 232 steps to get the overlook from where they can see a breathtaking view of the city and surroundings. Before leaving this area visitors should take a look around, the Sculpture Park, an open air museum at the Tower of Hércules, the Wind Rose and the Aquarium Finisterrae are nearby.

The ticket to visit the Tower costs between 1,50 and 3 euros although on Mondays are free.

Outer Port

Today, its new Outer Port (Puerto Exterior) of A Coruña, which is a way of opportunities for the future of A Coruña, is being constructed on a strategic location in Punta Langosteira, Atlantic Ocean. It will give A Coruña opportunities for business and industrial investment. It is to 10 km. away from Coruña City to the west of A Coruña..

More places to visit near A Coruña (Galicia)

– Santiago de Compostela: Read here our favorite places to visit in Santiago de Compostela.

– Asturias and The Basque Country: Two of the greenest regions of the country. Besides, in there you will find some of the best gastronomy of the Iberian Peninsula.

– The best cities to visit in Spain: Looking for traveling to another city? Check here the most visited destinations of Spain.

Two-days tour in Saragossa: What to visit in Zaragoza city

February 3, 2014Saragossa / Zaragoza, Tours and GuidesJorge

With almost 700,000 inhabitants, Zaragoza (Saragossa) is one of the biggest cities of Spain. Its strategical location between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, and its proximity to The Pyrenees and France, make Zaragoza one of the most important logistic points of Spain. Also, its size (not too big, not too small) and its mild climate (except for the wind) make Zaragoza one of the best places to live in the country.

But Zaragoza is not only a place to live, it’s also a city which has a lot of activity and history, ideal for visiting it in a weekend. The main monuments of Zaragoza are the following ones: Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar), The Pilar Basilica-Cathedral, La Seo Cathedral, The Roman ruins and museums, La Aljaferia Palace, La Lonja, Torre del agua and Expo 2008 Zone and many more places to discover.

Here we are going to propose you two routes for visiting most of the main places of the city in a weekend:

Day 1: La Aljaferia Palace, Expo 2008 Zone, Rio Ebro (The Ebro River), Muralla romana (The Roman wall), El Pilar, La Seo, Casco Viejo (The Old Town), Plaza España

– The Aljafería Palace (La Aljafería): A must for all tourists that arrive in Saragossa is to visit the stunning Aljaferia Palace.

The Aljaferia Palace is really the most visited historic site in Zaragoza. This medieval islamic palace was built by muslims on the banks of the river Ebro in the 11th century. Abu Ya far Ahmad, known as Al-Muqtadir, king of Saraqusta ordered its construction and it was called Qasr al -Surur (The Joy Palace) .

– Zaragoza Expo 2008: In summer 2008, Zaragoza received the international exposition Expo Zaragoza 2008, which was placed aside the shore of the Ebro River. The buildings, squares and structures were situated from the city center, behind the Pilar Basilic to Delicias Intermodal Station, the main train and bus station of the city. Currently, the Expo Zone is open to all the visitors who want to see the area and enjoy its activities.

Check the map of the Expo Zone here (click on it to see the map bigger):

– The Aquarium of Zaragoza (optional): The aquarium of Zaragoza is the biggest fluvial aquarium of Europe. It is located inside the Expo zone, near the pavilions.

As a recommendation, at the top floor of the aquarium there is a cafeteria with a viewer point to see the Ebro river, the Expo Zone and the centre of the city.

– The Park of the water (Parque del agua) (optional): Currently this is the wider park of Zaragoza. It was built simultaneously with the Expo 08 zone.

Inside The Park of the water, you will find a lot of green areas and activities: A lake with boats, An artificial beach with swimming pools, a whitewater channel, a golf camp, horses and many more (including the famous skyscraper: La torre del agua).

– The Ebro River and its bridges (Rio Ebro): You can walk from the Expo zone to the Pilar Cathedral bordering the Ebro river. The walk can last around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your speed.

By bordering the Ebro river, you will see the next bridges: Puente del tercer milenio (near Torre del agua and Parque del agua), The Bridge-Pavillion and the The bridge of the volunteers (in the Expo zone), Puente de hierro (The iron bridge, near Plaza Europa), Puente de Santiago (cross it to arrive at El Pilar, the roman wall and the Old town), Puente de piedra (the oldest one, built between 1336 and 1437, and located behind the Pilar Basilica), Puente de La Almozara and Puente de la Unión.

– The ruins of the roman wall (Murallas romanas): Close to the Santiago Bridge and beside the Pilar Square are placed the ruins of the Roman Wall of Zaragoza. Don’t miss them!

– The Main Market (Mercado Central) (optional): The market of Zaragoza is located in front of the Roman Walls. Its building was built in 1895 and is considered as a national monument.

– The Pilar cathedral / Basílica del Pilar: The Our Lady of the Pilar Basilica-Cathedral in Zaragoza popularly is the main attraction in Zaragoza city.

It is not only a meeting point with the tourists and citizens because its beautiful building and its artworks but also its absolute devotion to the Virgin of the Pilar, so called because the image of the Virgin is on a pillar (columna).

– Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar): The Pilar cathedral is placed in the centre of the city at Pilar Square. This square is the main and biggest square in Zaragoza.

Activities are organized in there the whole year, and the square is considered to be as the most important point of the city because it is surrounded by the Town Hall, The Old Centre and some of the most important monuments as El pilar, La seo, La lonja, The Roman wall or El Foro museum of Caesaraugusta.

– La Seo Cathedral: Saint Salvador Cathedral, commonly called La Seo, was built on the site of the great mosque aljama of Zaragoza between 12th and 16th centuries. Being rebuilt, reformed, improved and widened during these centuries, the present Cathedral has Romanesque, Mudéjar, Gothic, Baroque architectural styles which can really be seen outside the Cathedral, although its most important treasures are inside La Seo de Salvador.

– The Old Town (Casco Viejo) and Spain Square (Plaza España): To arrive at Spain Square (located at Independence Avenue) from the Pilar Square, you can walk along Alfonso Street (Calle Alfonso), which is always full of people.

The Old Town of Zaragoza is famous for its museums, its gastronomy (above all at “El Tubo” zone, where the people go to eat tapas). Also, some of the Nigth life of the city can be done in the Old Town, which is full of bars and discotheques.

Day 2: Parque grande (The main park), La Romareda (Football Stadium), Plaza San Francisco, Gran Via Avenue, Plaza Paraiso, Puerta del Carmen, Plaza Aragón, Paseo Independencia, Plaza Aragón

– The Main Park of Zaragoza (Parque grande): The Main Park of Zaragoza is placed at the beginning of Fernando el Católico Avenue, near the Romareda Football Stadium, and the university campus. The park was built between 1913 and 1927, and it was inaugurated in 1929, since then it has been improved many times. Currently it measures more than forty hectares, it has around 15 fountains, a botanic garden, a view point, many terraces, paths and statues, a swimming pool (for summer) and many more activities to do.

– La Torre de la Cámara de Comercio: At the entrance of the Main Park you will see this tower – lighthouse. It was built in 1940 as an icon of the progress of the city.

– La Romareda football stadium (Estadio de futbol de la Romareda): In La Romareda football stadium plays the Real Zaragoza Football team. This stadium is located alonside the music auditorium of Zaragoza and the lighthouse.

– The Music Auditorium (Auditorio de Zaragoza):

– San Francisco Square (Plaza San Francisco) (optional): Walking from the entrance of the Main Park (Parque Grande) through Fernando el Católico Avenue (in the tram direction) you will arrive at Plaza San Francisco, another meeting point of the city, above of all among the young people.

If you don’t want to visit this square nor the university campus, you can get on the tram (Line 1) from Parque Grande to Gran Via. 🙂

– The University Campus (Ciudad Universitaria) (optional): Currently the University of Zaragoza is divided in three zones: The headquarters at Paraninfo building (we will see later), the Ebro campus at Actur neighborhood an the San Francisco Campus -the traditional one-. These tree zones are connected with the tram.

– Gran Via Avenue: Once passed the cross with Goya Avenue, Fernando El Católico Avenue changes its name to Gran Via Avenue. of Saragossa is one of the most important streets of the city. By walking through it wides sidewalks you will arrive at Paraiso Square (at the beginning of Paseo Independencia).

– Paraiso Square (Plaza Paraiso) and Paraninfo Building (headquarters of the University of Zaragoza):

– Puerta del Carmen (optional): This gate was built in 1789. It is higtly popular among the citizens because it was a crucial defense place at the First Siege of Zaragoza (1808), when the French Army tried to conquest the city and the country.

– Paseo Independencia: Indepedence Avenue is the main street of Zaragoza. Beginning at the end of Gran Via Avenue, the avenue runs from Plaza Paraiso all the way to Plaza Aragón and ends at Plaza España, in the Old Town of the city.

In Paseo Independencia and its surroundings you will find the commercial centre of the city, with a lot of small shops, commercial centers, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and bars.

– Aragon Square (Plaza Aragón): In the middle of Paseo Independencia it’s located Aragon Square, and in the center of it, it’s the Aragon Justice Monument (Monumento al Justicia de Aragón).

Day 3 (extra): Choose one option…

As it’s impossible to visit the whole city in two days, we suggest here some other plans to see that we haven’t included in our route.

– Museums: Zaragoza has many museums. Here you have some of them:

Roman museums: Museo de las Termas Públicas (San Juan Street, number 3), Museo del Puerto Fluvial (San Bruno Square), El Foro (La Seo Square) and The Roman Teather / Teatro de Caesaraugusta (San Jorge Square, number 12). All of them in the old town or in the city centre.

Other museums and expositions centers: Pablo Gargallo (San Felipe Square, at the Old Town), Museo de Zaragoza (Los Sitios Square), Pablo Serrano (Maria Agustin Avenue).

– The Aragonese Pyrenees (Los Pirineos): In summer, many people camp in the Pyrenees for discovering its mountains, rivers and lakes, and for practicing sports in this environment. In winter, the Pyrenees ski stations are some of the most frequented places of Spain to ski.

– Other places to visit near Zaragoza city: Teruel, Huesca, Calatayud, Monasterio de Piedra, Jaca, Pamplona.

How to arrive at Zaragoza

Visitors of other countries can arrive at Zaragoza by airplane to the Zaragoza Airport. Visitors from other cities can come here by bus or by train to Delicias Intermodal Station.

– Delicias train and bus station (Estación intermodal de Delicias):

Read also our post with the best cities of Spain, and the list with the most visited monuments of Spain.

Oviedo: What to visit in Oviedo city (Asturias)

February 1, 2014Oviedo, Tours and Guidesbestplaces

Oviedo is the capital city of Asturias. The city has around 225,000 inhabitants and is located 28 km away of Gijón.

In this post we are going to talk about some of the most important places to see when visiting Oviedo city. Let’s go!

Visiting The Old Town of Oviedo

The Old Town (Casco antiguo) of Oviedo has some of the most important monuments of the city: Starting at Alfonso II Square (Plaza de Alfonso II el Casto) you will discover in front of you the Cathedral, and behind the cathedral is placed The medieval wall of the city (built in the 12th century), in where is also located the Archaeological Museum.

On the left of the Cathedral and the Medieval Wall it are located Feijoó Square and San Pelayo Monastery, founded by The King Alfonso II (791-842) and currently inhabited by the Benedictine Order.

Continuing with the route through the Old Town of Oviedo, we can visit at Eusebio Gonzalez Abascal Street these four palaces: La Rua Palace, Conde de Toreno Palace, Valdecarnaza Palace and Camposagrado Palace at Porlier Square. Then, at Ramón y Cajal Street you will see the headquarters of the University of Oviedo.

Finally, at Constitución Square (Plaza de la constitución), are located the Town Hall, San Isidoro Church and near it, El Fontán market, close to Fierro Street (we will talk about the City Hall later).

Other important places to visit in Oviedo Old Town are the following ones: Casa de Bernardo de Quirós (at Riego Square), Palacio del marqués San Feliz (at Daoiz y Velarde Square, behind El Fontán). You also can visit Campoamor Theater at Escandalera Square (Plaza de la Escandalera) at 5 minutes on foot from the Town Hall.

Oviedo Cathedral

The Oviedo Cathedral (Catedral de San Salvador de Oviedo) is one of the main icons of the city. It is placed at Plaza de Alfonso II el Casto, in the city centre.

This gothic cathedral was built from the 13th to the 16th centuries, but some parts of it are older than that, as the Holy Camera (Cámara Santa), which was built in the 9th century and it has been declared a World of Heritage site by UNESCO in 1998.

The City Hall

The City Hall of Oviedo is another of the most emblematic buildings of the city. It is located at Plaza de la Constitución, near Plaza Transcorrales. The City hall building (Casa consistorial) was designed by Juan de Naveda and inaugurated in 1671.

The building was almost destroyed during the Civil War (1936-1939) and it was rebuilt in 1940.

San Francisco Park

San Francisco Park (El Campo de San Francisco), popularly known as “El Campo” is another must-see place for all the people who are visiting Asturias. The park is located in the center of Oviedo.

Inside the park you can visit its fountains (as Fuente del Caracol), the botanic garden, the lake, the rides and many more.

Oviedo Congress Palace

The Oviedo Congress Palace (Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Oviedo – Princesa Letizia) is located at Buenavista, near Ricardo Vazquez Prada Street.

This modern building was designed by architect Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2011. It has an usable area of more than 15,000 square meters and it can accommodate more than 2,000 people.

San Miguel de Lillo church and the view point

If you have a car available, it’s highly recommended to visit the Romanic church of San Miguel de Lillo and the view point of El Cristo. From there you will be able to see the whole city and its surroundings. Enjoy it!

Oviedo touristic map

Here you have a touristic map of the city. Click on it to see the streets bigger.

Other places to visit in Asturias

– Gijón: The biggest city of Asturias region, and the most touristic one. Gijón is a nice seaside city which invites all its visitors to enjoy its beaches, its gastronomy and its way of life.

– Cudillero, Lastres, Cangas de Onis (Picos de Europa) and Llanes: These three seaside towns are highly popular among the tourists. If you have enough time, don’t miss them!

– Covadonga: In the Covadonga Sanctuary it’s placed the famous cave with Don Pelayo tomb and the statue of Lady of Covadonga. Close to the cave, there is located San Pedro Monastery and the Basilica of Santa María la Real of Covadonga.

– Routes in the nature: For discovering the “green Asturias” a recommended option is to plan a route on foot through the nature. For doing that you can start by trying this two routes: Ruta de las Xanas and Ruta del Cares.

Gijón: What to visit in Gijón city (Asturias)

January 27, 2014Beach, mountain and nature, Gastronomy, Gijón, Tours and Guidesbestplaces

Gijón (or Xixón) is the biggest city of Asturias region, and the most touristic one. With near 300,000 inhabitants, Gijón is a nice seaside city which invites all its visitors to enjoy its beaches, its gastronomy and its way of life.

In this article we are going to talk about the best places to see when visiting Gijón: beaches, monuments, restaurants and many more. For doing that, we will suggest three routes through the city, with the main sites and the recommendations of their citizens (thanks Tania!)

Route one: San Lorenzo beach (Playa de San Lorenzo), Cimadevilla and West Beach (Playa de Poniente)

San Lorenzo beach is probably the most famous beach of Gijón. It is located from Isabel la Católica Park, through Ezcudia Avenue to San Pedro Church.

In this area, close to San Pedro Church, you will also find the ruins of the Roman Baths (Termas romana de Campo Baldés) and the Jovellanos museum (Casa natal de Jovellanos). In the Roman Baths museum are exposed the ruins of this public baths: The first ruins were discovered in 1903 but they haven’t been fully explored and the museum wasn’t inaugurated until the end on the 20th century. On the other hand, in Jovellanos museum you will visit the 15th century birthplace of Jovellanos family (a famous Spanish writer and politician).

Once passed San Pedro Church beach, you can walk uphill to Cimadevilla neighborhood, where it’s placed Santa Catalina Park (Parque del cerro de Santa Catalina) and one of the icons of the city: the “Elogio del horizonte” monument. This construction was designed by sculptor Eduardo Chillida and built in 1990. Near this zone you also can visit Plaza Mayor of Gijón.

From this point of Santa Catalina Park, you will be able to see on the horizon the Cantabran and Gijón coasts (on one side San Lorenzo beach and on the other one The Port and El Musel).

For finishing the route, you can walk downhill to the other side of the city, where it’s placed the Port of Gijón, the famous red structure with the name of the city (Las Letronas), Revillagigedo Palace (Palacio de Revillagigedo) and the West Beach (Playa de Poniente).

Route two: Visiting the City centre

For visiting the centre of Gijón, a good start point is Begoña Street (Paseo Begoña) and Covadonga Street, in where you will find Jovellanos Theather and San Lorenzo Parish.

Another popular site is Jovellanos Square (Plaza del Instituto Jovellanos), popularly known as Plaza del Parchís. This is one of the meeting points of the city. Also, in this square is located the Municipal Library.

Route three: The view point of La Providencia

If you have enough time, you can go to La Providencia by foot. The walk from Gijón city to La Providencia could last around one hour from San Lorenzo beach (stair 17). During this walk, at first you will reach the “Juana la Lloca” monument, In memory of the fishers who were disappeared in the sea. Then, once passed the beach, there is placed La Providencia, a boat-shaped view point from where you will be able to enjoy one of the best view of Gijón.

Gastronomy: Eating in Gijón

Asturias is famous for its nature and for its gastronomy. For discovering Asturias nature you can look for routes in its villages and mountains. For tasting the Asturian food you can eat at some of the traditional restaurants of Gijón as the following ones.

Two examples of traditional restaurants of Gijón:

– El Otro Mayu (Sanz Crespo Street, number 15): An ideal option to taste the traditional food of Asturias.
– El Trasgu Farton (Luanco Street, number 16): Another option, in where you will be able to eat for a cheap price (around 10 euros per person).

More places to visit in Asturias

– Oviedo: With 225,000 inhabitants, Oviedo is the capital city of Asturias. If you want to visit it, Gijón is only 28 km away of Oviedo.

– Cudillero, Lastres and Llanes: These three seaside towns are highly popular among the tourists. If you have enough time, don’t miss them!

Tarifa: What to see in the most southerly town of Europe (Andalusia)

January 21, 2014Beach, mountain and nature, Cádiz, Tours and GuidesJorge

Tarifa is the most southerly town of Spain (without counting Ceuta, Melilla nor Canary Islands) and Continental Europe. It is located in Cadiz Province, Andalusia region. Tarifa is 100km away from Cadiz city, 200km away from Seville and 160 km away from Malaga.

With around 20,000 inhabitants, currently Tarifa is a touristic small city, famous for its beaches, its castle, but above all because of the coast of the city from where you can reach the Strait of Gibraltar and see Africa, or cross it by boat.

What to visit in Tarifa (Andalusia)

Among the tourists, in summer Tarifa is well known for its beaches, in where you can practice aquatic sports as surf. However, if you are visiting Tarifa, don’t miss seeing these popular places about what we will talk now:

– Baelo Claudia Roman city.
– Guzman el Bueno’s Castle (Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno).
– Pigeons’ Island (Isla de las Palomas).
– The Strait of Gibraltar (Estrecho de Gibraltar).
– The Port of Tarifa.
– And of course the beaches, the sea and the Andalusian Gastronomy.

Other important sites are Puerta de Jerez (Jerez Gate), Sancho IV Monument and San Mateo Church.

Baelo Claudia: The ruins of a Roman city

The history of Tarifa began a lot of time ago, in the prehistory. From these times still remain some places, as the Albarbes necropolis or The Moorish Cave (La Cueva del Moro). However, the most important rests are in “Baelo Claudia”, a roman city which were founded in the third century B.C. and developed the next centuries, and whose ruins can been visited nowadays.

Guzman el Bueno’s Castle (Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno)

This castle is located in the south of the city, in the top of a hill, bordering the sea. It is said that it was built in the 10th century by Abderramán III. Some years later, in 1292, Tarifa was conquered by the Christians, commanded by Sancho IV.

Because of its strategic location, the castle was military point for many centuries. During this time it was improved and reconstructed many times.

Nowadays the castle is open to visitors. To visit the whole complex can last about 40 minutes. We recommend to visit it, and don’t miss your photos camera: From the towers of the castle you will see an amazing view of the Port , the sea and the Strait of Gibraltar.

Pigeons’ Island (Isla de las Palomas) and The Strait of Gibraltar (Estrecho de Gibraltar)

The Strait of Gibraltar is the piece of sea which separates Spain (Europe) and Morocco (Africa). It also separates the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. In its narrower point the strait measures 14 km, and it is one of the most transited sites of the world.

Pigeons’ Island (La Isla de las Palomas) is a small island located inside the Strait. Nowadays you can arrive at the island by foot following a path from the city. In the island you will find a 12th century fortress, which at first was a small military base, but which have been extended since then until the 20th century covered most of the island.

You can visit Pigeons’ Island for free. It is the officially the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula and of the continent of Europe. Also, from there you can see in the clear days the north of Africa.

The Port of Tarifa

The Port of Tarifa is the closest port near Europe and Africa. It can be seen from Guzman el Bueno’s Castle and also from Pigeons’ Island.

From this small port you can cross the The Strait of Gibraltar by boat and arrive in Tangier (Morocco).

Other places to visit in Andalusia and Spain

– Andalusia: Check here all our articles about this wonderful region of Spain.

Popular cities in Andalusia: Seville, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada.

– The best places to visit in Spain: Read our post with the most popular places to visit.