Catedral de León / Santa Maria de la Regla Cathedral (Leon city)

February 24, 2014Emblematic buildings, LeónManu

With around 140,000 inhabitants, León city (Castile and Leon region) has a lot to offer its visitors, such as its Cathedral the most remarkable building of Leon, The Roman Walls, Basilica of San Isidoro, San Marcos monastery, the Old Town, and many more.

Leon Cathedral: Saint Mary Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María)

Saint Mary Cathedral, called the Pulchra Leonina, in León, 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 ( dating between 13th and 15th centuries). Either way, visitors will enjoy the colorful stained glass windows more if they stare at them inside the Cathedral when the sunlight shines through them. It is a must-see place.

The Cathedral of León has three facades, west, north and south; the west one is the most imposing facade with its three wonderful portals, two bell towers and one clock tower with its large stained glass rose window on the front of the facade. Moreover, inside the Leon Cathedral, which has three naves, interesting chapels, a stunning choir stalls from 15th century; a cloister (13th-15th centuries); a beautiful altarpiece from 15th century in the main chapel; the fine mausoleum of the king Ordoño II (13th-15th centuries), beautiful paintings, sculptures and artworks among others. Therefore, a must for tourists who arrive in León is to visit it. By the way, the local people must feel very proud to have this outstanding Cathedral.

On the other hand, if people are quite interested in religious art and culture, we suggest visiting the Diocesan Cathedral Museum, which is in itself worth a visit, has 17 rooms full of artworks, above all paintings and sculptures from the prehistory to the 20th century. Moreover, if tourists have plenty of time we recommend going upstairs to get the clerestory platform in order to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Cathedral, they will probability stay there for 30 minutes before going down the 64 stairs.

The ticket to visit the Cathedral costs between 2 and 5 euros and the Diocesan – Cathedral Museum costs about 5 euros. The Cathedral and the Diocesan Museum both of them are located in the Regla square.

More places to visit in Leon city

– What to visit in Leon city: A brief guide with the more visited places in the city.

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

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.

Palau de la Música Catalana / The Catalonian Music Palace (Barcelona)

February 12, 2014Barcelona, Emblematic buildingsManu

The Palau de la Música Catalana (The Catalonian Music Palace, or The Palace of Catalan Music), known as the Palau, is a hall concert, located in Barcelona city. This building is one of the most visited places in Barcelona by people who want to enjoy its Modernism architecture or listen to the choir of the Orfeó Catalá (Catalonian Choral Society) or concerts.

Located in the heart of Barcelona city near the Gothic Cathedral, and to 10 minutes on foot from the popular Catalonia square (plaza de Cataluña), this modernist building was declared a World Heritage site in 1997 by UNESCO.

History of the The Catalonian Music Palace

The Palau de la Música Catalana was constructed between 1905 and 1909 by the Catalonian Modernist architect Lluís Domenech i Montaner (1850-1923), who made an agreement with the best artists, sculptors and painters such as the architect Jeroni Granell i Manresa (1867-1931) who made many of the colorful stained glass windows and dome of the palace; the world renowned Aragonese sculptor Pablo Gargallo (Maella -Zaragoza 1881- 1934) who sculpted the colossal figures of the proscenium; Lluís Bru i Salelles ( 1868-1952) and Mario Maragliano who worked in the fine mosaics, among other artists, so that all of them worked on the project of a building for the Catalonian Orfeó Headquarter (sede del Orfeó Catalá).

Having a seating capacity of more than 2.000, the Palau has a main outstanding Concert Hall (Sala de Conciertos) with a large organ over its stage; the Rehearsal Hall of the Orfeó Catalá which is below the main Concert Hall; the stunning Hall Lluís Millet among other things.

Nowadays, the Palau de la Música Catalá has a lot of performances during the year, so that all people can see the impressive Palau which is considered to be a Catalan Modernism masterpiece. However, if people do not have free time to attend any concert, they can take a guided visit in the morning, or perhaps take a stroll around its streets and seeing its wonderful facades (at number 7 San Pere Mes Alt street and 4 Amadeu Vives street). Moreover, there are a restaurant and cafés inside the Palau building.

Visiting the building

The Palau builging is placed at 4 Palau de la Música street. You can go there by bus, lines 17, 19 and 45.

The ticket to visit the Palau can cost from 9 to 18 euros. The guided tour lasts one hour. There is a guided tour every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Being Barcelona the second largest city in Spain (the first is Madrid) has a lot of interesting places, buildings, activities, entertainments to offer visitors in the way of spending an unforgettable holiday. However, if people attend some of the concerts at the Palau, they will have an enjoyable experience. Do not leave Barcelona without visiting the Palau.

More places to visit in Barcelona city

– Las Ramblas Avenue: La Rambla Avenue goes from Catalonia Square to the seaport, and it has a lot of cafes, terraces, pubs and discotheques. In the end of the street, there is the Cristobal Colon monument.

– Columbus Monument: One of the most famous statues of Barcelona city. It was built in 1888 for a Universal Exposition and it represents a statue of Christopher Columbus above a pillar, pointing with his right hand to the sea.

– The Holy Family (La Sagrada Familia): It is a must for tourists that arrive in Barcelona see its outstanding architecture, design and sculptures.

– La Barceloneta: In summer, you can sunbathe or swim in the beach of La Barceloneta, which is 5 minutes walking from Columbus Monument.

Read also our post with the most famous monuments in 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.

La Pineda: A seaside town in Catalonia with beaches, sun and lots of fun (Gold Coast)

February 7, 2014Beach, mountain and nature, TarragonaJorge

With only 3,000 inhabitants, La Pineda (Vila-Seca) is a small town located in the north-east of the Iberian Peninsula, at Tarragona Province (Catalonia). However, it has to offer some peculiarities which become La Pineda a great place to go on holidays: Its wide beaches, its attractions parks and its night life will amuse all people, from families, young people, older people and everyone else.

Also, La Pineda is only 1km away from Salou, which means that people can go from La Pineda to Salou by foot in only 30minutes aprox. (or you also can go by public bus 🙂 ).

The Gold Coast

La Pineda is located in the Gold Coast (Costa Dorada). This coast is famous for its beaches and its golden and soft sand, its warm average temperature both in summer and in winter, and its clear sea-water.

The promenade of La Pineda measures more than 2 kilometres in length (one of the longest of Catalonia), so there is enough space to rest in the beach, take sunbathes and swim without crowds.

What to do La Pineda: Attractions parks, Water Parks, Golf Courses and more

La Pineda VilaSeca has some great installations in its surroundings to practice any king of activities: water-parks, attractions, golf courses…

Here are some of them:

– Aquopolis (Water Park): Located in the center of the town, by visiting Aquopolis you will enjoy a huge variety of water attractions and swimming pools. Aquopolis is the perfect place to stay in a hot summer day enjoying their aquatic attractions and their giant swimming pools.

– Port Aventura (Attractions Park): The older and most famous amusement park in Spain. In there you will enjoy many impressive attractions as Dragon Khan roller coaster and a lot of live spectacles. It also has an independent water park. You can go to Port Aventura by car or by bus from La Pineda and from Salou.

– Golf Courses: If you enjoy practicing golf, you can find some Golf Courses near La Pineda, as Lumine Golf.

Nightlife in La Pineda

Pacha La Pineda is the main discotheque of the zone. It was founded in 1985 and nowadays is considered as an icon in the Golden Coast. During all the summer lots of people come there every night to Pacha to enjoy its thematic parties and DJ’s.

Besides, La Pineda has many more places to visit during the night, as the terraces or pubs located in the town. Also, if you want more fun you can take a bus to Salou, which is always overcrowded of young people.

More places to visit on holidays

– Salou: Salou is a reference for the holydays of Spring and Summer in Spain. Furthermore, the profile of the people who visit the town is highly various: Since families with children, couples, and young people.

– Barcelona: Read here the best places to visit in the main city of Catalonia.

– Castelldefels: Castelldefels is located on the Mediterranean Sea coast of Catalonia, just to 18 km away from Barcelona city.

– Sitges: Sitges is also known for its Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia, the Barcelona-Sitges Vintage Car Rallys and its Carnival Celebration.

– Top destinations in Spain: Check here the most touristic cities of Spain, as Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia or Bilbao.

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.