Why travel to Castile and Leon?
Castile and Leon, Spain´s largest autonomous region, is a vast land of medieval cities, Romanesque churches, majestic cathedrals, and impressive castles. Located in the northern interior of the Iberian Peninsula, it is the historic heart of old Spain and the birthplace of the Castilian Spanish language. This region has a rich history with key moments in the Reconquista, and cultural and culinary traditions that have lasted over centuries.
Beyond the history and monumental architecture, Castile and Leon is also a paradise for food and wine lovers, with excellent wines, hearty local cuisine, and some of the best cured meats and cheeses in the country.
Historic Cities and World Heritage Sites
Castile and Leon's beautifully preserved cities transport you back through Spain’s history. Each one is a cultural hidden gem:
- Salamanca: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this golden-stone city is home to one of Europe´s oldest universities. Wander the Plaza Mayor, visit the ornate New and Old Cathedrals, and don´t miss the spectacular façade of the university.
- Segovia: Famous for its beautiful Alcazar and Roman aqueduct, Segovia also has a Gothic cathedral and charming winding streets. It´s also the best place to try the region’s signature dish: cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cooked in traditional wood ovens.
- Ávila: Enclosed by one of Europe´s best-preserved medieval walls, Ávila is another UNESCO gem. Its Romanesque and Gothic churches, including the Cathedral of Ávila, reflect its deeply spiritual character, which was the home of Saint Teresa of Ávila.
- Burgos and Leon: These two cities offer wonderful Gothic cathedrals along the Camino de Santiago Frances (French Way of St James) pilgrimage route. Burgos is also known for its noble lineage and connection to El Cid, while León shines with stained glass and lively tapas bars.
Wine and Gastronomy: A Feast of Tradition and Terroir
Food in Castile and Leon is varied, rich, and seasonal. This is a region where tradition and local pride can be tasted in every bite and sip.
- Wines of Ribera del Duero and Rueda: Castile and Leon is home to some of Spain´s most prestigious wine regions. Ribera del Duero produces bold, structured reds, primarily from the Tempranillo grape, while Rueda is popular for its fresh, aromatic white wines made from Verdejo grapes. Visiting local wineries is a must-do experience.
- Jamón Ibérico and Cured Meats: Guijuelo, in Salamanca, is one of the key production zones for top-quality jamón ibérico de bellota. You´ll also find chorizo, cecina (cured beef from Leon), and other local cured meats that pair perfectly with red wine.
- Cheeses and Hearty Dishes: Sheep cheeses like queso zamorano and Valdeón blue cheese from the Picos de Europa stand out. Food here is authentic, rustic, and satisfying. Try morcilla de Burgos (blood sausage), judiones de la Granja (giant white beans), or lechazo asado (roast suckling lamb), another favorite.
- Desserts and Sweets: Keep an eye out for yemas de Santa Teresa in Ávila, tarta de San Marcos in Leon.
Walk the Camino and Discover Natural Wonders
Castile and Leon forms a major part of the Camino de Santiago, offering pilgrims breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. You don’t have to do the full route to enjoy scenic stretches through sunflower fields, oak forests, and rolling plains.
Nature lovers will also enjoy:
- Las Médulas: A red landscape of Roman gold mines, now a UNESCO site.
- Sierra de Gredos and Picos de Europa: Mountain ranges perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and escaping the bustle of the city.
If you love architecture, unspoiled towns, and unforgettable food and wine, Castile and Leon has a lot to offer. Whether sipping red wine in centuries-old wineries, indulging in roast lamb, or exploring a fortress high above the plains, this region offers a deeper, slower, and more authentic taste of Spain.
Our food experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours with food, wine, and walking holidays in Castile and Leon. You can check our full list of things to do in Castile and Leon: top food tours to Castile and Leon and top boutique hotels in the sections of the travel guide to Castile and Leon.
Population: 2,391,682 (2025) inhabitants