Are you looking for things to do in Burgos to make the most of your visit to this charming Spanish city? With this guide we’ll tell you all about it.
With this guide we will take you on an exciting tour of the most emblematic places in Burgos, you will immerse yourself in its delicious traditional food, learn about the deep-rooted traditions and history that make this city an unforgettable destination and of course, we will take you on a tour of the main things to do in Burgos.
Things to do in Burgos: History of the city
Burgos, a city with an impressive historical legacy, is a place where past and present intertwine in a fascinating way. Burgos’ history is a rich and varied chronicle spanning over a thousand years, offering visitors a wide variety of emblematic sites and cultural treasures to explore. To know the things to do in Burgos, you first need to know its history.
The city has its roots in Roman times, when it was established as a strategic settlement on the road connecting the Atlantic coast with the Mediterranean coast. As time progressed, the city took on a significant role in Spain’s medieval history.
One of the highlights of Burgos’ history is its period as the seat of the court of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, in the 15th century. During this time, emblematic monuments were built which today are a must for those who want to know the things to do in Burgos.
The legendary figure of the Cid Campeador, whose statue stands in the city, is also an integral part of the history of Burgos. The Cid, a medieval hero, lived in the region and played a crucial role in the political and military struggles of the time.
From the founding of the city to its role in the unification of Spain, Burgos has accumulated an impressive historical heritage. Exploring the history of Burgos is an enriching experience that will take you through time and allow you to discover the things to do in Burgos as you travel back in time from ancient Rome to medieval Spain and beyond.
To discover the charms of Burgos is to immerse yourself in the warm embrace of a city steeped in history and beauty. Its cobbled streets whisper ancient legends, while its majestic monuments narrate the epic of a glorious past. For poets, Burgos is a giant muse, the city of the cold that shines like a white star in the heart of Castile.
Immerse yourself in its essence, let its corners captivate you and discover the very essence of poetry made city.
More sun and blue. I prefer the wastelands of Castile
Antonio Machado
to the flowery meadows of Cordoba or Seville.
Things to do in Burgos?
Discover these 14 essential places to see and the things to do in Burgos:
1. Museum of Burgos
We will begin our journey at the Museum of Burgos, a place that will transport you through the time and culture of the region.
The Museum of Burgos houses exclusively Burgos collections that reflect the history and culture of the province. Its origins date back to 1846, when it was created to preserve works of art from churches and monasteries affected by the Disentailment.
One of the most famous pieces is Tizona, the sword of the Cid Campeador
Nowadays, it houses sections of Prehistory, Archaeology and Fine Arts in different historical buildings.
2. Museum of Human Evolution
The Museum of Human Evolution (MEH) offers a fascinating journey through the history of mankind, and is definitely a mustin the things to do in Burgos. Designed by the architect Juan Navarro Baldeweg, it is part of the regional museum network of Castilla y León and has received numerous architectural awards.
You can learn what to see and the things to do in Burgos thanks to this museum.
Since its inauguration in 2010, it has been one of the most visited museums in Spain and is a key component of the Human Evolution Complex. The MEH is linked to the preservation and dissemination of the archaeological remains of the Atapuerca sites, being an international reference in human evolution.
3. San Pablo Bridge
Cross the majestic San Pablo Bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque Arlanzón River and the city. This historic bridge is a symbol of Burgos and an ideal stop for architecture enthusiasts.
The Bridge of San Pablo de Burgos, built in 1242 near a convent dedicated to San Pablo, has been rebuilt several times due to flooding. In the 20th century, it was decorated with eight sculptures related to the Cid as part of an architectural-sculptural project.
4. Statue of the Mio Cid
You can’t visit Burgos without coming across the imposing statue of Mio Cid, a legendary figure from the Middle Ages who played a crucial role in the city’s history.
The Monumento al Cid Campeador in Burgos, Spain, is an equestrian statue honouring Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, an 11th century military leader. Designed by Juan Cristóbal González Quesada, it was unveiled in 1955 by General Franco. It is one of only seven equestrian monuments to the Cid in the world.
5. Main Theatre of Burgos
If you have time, attend an exciting play or concert at the Teatro Principal in Burgos. Opened in 1858, it has been an important cultural centre.
The Teatro Principal de Burgos, built in the Elizabethan era, is an emblematic building located on the Paseo del Espolón. After a refurbishment in 1997, the theatre recovered its activity with dance, theatre and music, managed by the Municipal Institute of Culture of Burgos City Council. The building also houses a library, exhibition and conference rooms, the Casa de los Gigantillos and a cafeteria with a terrace overlooking the Espolón.
It is one of the places you have to see in Burgos and one must in our list of the things to do in Burgos.
6. Monumental Ensemble of the Monastery of San Juan
The monumental complex in the Plaza de San Juan in Burgos includes the Church of San Lesmes, the Monastery of San Juan and the Hospital of Sixtus IV. It is a must in the things to do in Burgos.
The church, renovated in the 15th century, houses the tomb of San Lesmes and outstanding altarpieces and works of art. On the other hand, the Monastery of San Juan, founded in the 11th century and renovated in the 15th century, has a late Gothic cloister and the Renaissance Chapter House. Finally, the Hospital de San Juan, founded in 1479, was an important hospital centre with a remarkable façade that now gives access to the Public Library of Burgos.
7. Casa del Cordón
The Palace of the Constables of Castile, known as Casa del Cordón, is a 15th-century Gothic palace in Burgos. Originally promoted by Pedro Fernández de Velasco and Mencía de Mendoza, it has numerous heraldic coats of arms and a Franciscan cordon over the main door. It is currently used as a cultural centre and bank headquarters, although it has undergone modifications since its original design.
8. Plaza Mayor of Burgos
Immerse yourself in the heart of the city at the Plaza Mayor de Burgos, another must-see and a must-do in the things to do in Burgos. Formerly a weekly market square, it was the city’s main commercial centre thanks to the markets granted by King Ferdinand the Catholic and King Charles I. If you are not sure of the things to do in Burgos, the Plaza Mayor is one of the places where you should start exploring by .
In the 18th century, the Puerta de las Carretas and the surrounding wall were demolished to make way for the construction of the new Town Hall and arcaded buildings, turning it into a busy pedestrianised place full of terraces. If you are looking for things to do in Burgos visiting the Plaza Mayor of Burgos is a great idea!
9. Arch of Santa Maria
The majestic Arco de Santa María is one of the historic gates that used to welcome visitors to Burgos. It is notable for its 16th-century Gothic Renaissance style. It has been used for various purposes throughout history, such as prison and municipal headquarters. Its exterior façade, in the form of an ‘altarpiece’, has a rich sculptural ornamentation that includes figures of historical figures such as Count Diego Rodríguez Porcelos and the Emperor Charles V, as well as religious elements such as the Guardian Angel and the Virgin Mary and Child.
10. Burgos Cathedral
You must also see Burgos’ famous Gothic Cathedral, declared a World Heritage Site. It is undoubtedly a must in the things to do in Burgos.
Built in the 13th century, it has architectural elements from different periods, such as the flamboyant Gothic spires and the Renaissance façade. It houses works by prominent artists such as Gil de Siloé and Sebastiano del Piombo. You must also add to yout list of things to do in Burgos, a visit to the Capilla del Condestable and the Santísimo Cristo de Burgos.
Recently restored, it is one of the most important monuments in Europe.
Get tickets here to see its beautiful interior.
11. Las Llanas
Although it is not one of the best known places to see in Burgos, it´s personally one of my favourite things to do in Burgos.
Las Llanas de Burgos is a medieval architectural ensemble to the east of the cathedral and is popular with young university students at weekends due to its nightlife.
The Llana de Afuera, near the Capilla de los Condestables, connects with the Llana de Adentro and the Calle de la Virgen de la Paloma.
12. Church of San Nicolás
The Church of San Nicolás is a hidden treasure in Burgos.
Built in 1408 on the site of a Romanesque temple, it houses an impressive Renaissance altarpiece by Simón de Colonia and his son Francisco.
This national monument is another of the fantastic places in the things to do in Burgos.
13. Church of San Esteban
Another architectural gem is the Church of San Esteban, a stunning example of Spanish Romanesque architecture.
Built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries, it is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Damaged during the War of the Spanish Succession and the Napoleonic invasion, it was declared a National Monument in 1931. Today it houses the Museo del Retablo (Altarpiece Museum), moving the parish seat to the church of San Nicolás de Bari.
14. Burgos Castle
End your day exploring the Castle of Burgos.
Located at the top of the Castle Hill, it was begun by Count Diego Porcelos in 884 during the Reconquest. It is notable for its complex defensive system and its 60-metre-deep well, known as the Cueva del Moro (Moor’s Cave). It is said that this cave leads through a secret underground route to the catacombs of the cathedral itself.
Over the centuries, it has undergone several transformations and extensions, including improvements during the reign of Alfonso VIII and a later adaptation as a palace during the reign of Henry IV of Castile.
We also recommend you take in the marvellous panoramic views of the entire city from its viewpoint. You can’t miss this must in the things to do in Burgos.
Discover the whole route in an interactive and fun way with us.
Take the tour for free with DareMapp. We leave you the link below ;).
Traditional Food: Things to do in Burgos and OFC, try!
After a day full of exploring, you can’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious traditional food of Burgos.
The typical gastronomy of Burgos features robust and comforting dishes, ideal for the region’s cold winters. Emblematic dishes include black pudding from Burgos, cojonudos and cojonudas (tapas with chorizo or black pudding and quail’s egg on bread), olla podrida (a red bean stew with various meat ingredients), and sopa castellana (with garlic, bread, paprika and eggs).
In addition, roast meats, such as suckling lamb, suckling pig or kid, are very popular and are prepared in wood-fired ovens, outstanding for their simplicity and exquisite flavour.
Curiosities of the city
Burgos is a city full of history, art and hidden mysteries. If you are looking for things to do in Burgo sand want to explore some of its most intriguing secrets, here are three curiosities you may not know about that will add a special touch to your visit:
- The Legend of the Flycatcher: Inside the magnificent Burgos Cathedral is a curious figure known as the Flycatcher. This automaton, located on the cathedral clock, opens its mouth every time the bell rings to mark the time. According to local legend, the Flycatcher was designed to remind the people of Burgos of the importance of punctuality and the passing of time. This peculiar character is a must in the things to do in Burgos for those interested in discovering the most unique and fun things to do in Burgos.
- The Secret of the Puerta de la Pellejería: On the south façade of Burgos Cathedral is the Puerta de la Pellejería, famous for its intricate Renaissance design. What many do not know is that this door contains a series of figures hidden among its reliefs, including animals and grotesque faces that are believed to protect the temple from evil spirits. Searching for these figures can become a kind of game of discovery for visitors interested in the architectural details and medieval traditions to see and if you can, another of the things to do in Burgos.
- The Mystery of the Tomb of the Cid: Although many people visit Burgos to see the tomb of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, El Cid, and his wife Doña Jimena in the Cathedral, few are aware of the controversy surrounding these remains. There are debates about the authenticity of the remains that lie there, as they were moved several times over the centuries before their current location. This mystery adds an element of intrigue to the story of the Cid, making his tomb a fascinating and contested point for our list of things to do in Burgos
These curiosities not only enrich the experience of visiting Burgos, but also allow you to see the city from a different perspective, full of stories and secrets waiting to be discovered by curious and passionate history buffs.
Traditions to see in Burgos
The province of Burgos has a rich tradition of festivities and traditions that reflect its cultural and folkloric heritage. Here is a brief description of some of the most outstanding festivities and traditions:
- One of the festivities you can’t miss if you don’t know the things to do in Burgos, is its Semana Santa (Holy Week). During this celebration, the streets come alive with impressive processions in which religious representations are carried out with iconic figures and floats. The city’s churches and brotherhoods play a fundamental role in this celebration, which attracts visitors from all over the world. If you have the opportunity to visit Burgos during Holy Week, you will witness a unique and moving experience.
- Another colourful tradition to see and if you can another of the things to do in Burgos is the celebration of the Fiestas de San Juan. Every June 24th, the city fills with joy and music to commemorate its patron saint, San Juan Bautista. The streets fill with people dressed in white and adorned with red scarves. The festive atmosphere is complemented by activities such as concerts, dances and the burning of bonfires on the shortest night of the year.
- The Burgos Carnival is another popular festival not to be missed. During this time, the city fills with creative costumes and joyful parades. Costume contests, music and street performances make the Burgos Carnival a fun and energetic experience.
- In honour of the legendary figure of El Cid Campeador, the city organises El Paso del Cid, a historical re-enactment that transports visitors back to the Middle Ages. This event includes parades, battle re-enactments and shows that will make you feel like you’re reliving history.
These festivities and traditions are just a sample of what you can experience in the province of Burgos. Each has its own history and cultural appeal, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region.
We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to Burgos and that you make the most of your time in this fascinating city.
Remember that you can discover the things to do in Burgos with DareMapp for free!
Remember that with DareMapp you can take a multitude of interactive guided tours, including many of these “Spain’s most famous routes”, a fun tour of the main destinations.
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