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Things to do in Burgos in 2 days: complete itinerary & map

By Rita

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Things to do in Burgos in 2 days: plan a weekend in this Castilian city steeped in history and art. In just one weekend you can admire the Cathedral of Burgos, stroll the elegant Paseo del Espolรณn, discover historic gems like the Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores, and dive into the food scene around Plaza Mayor and the old town. This guide includes a detailed 2-day itinerary of Burgosโ€™ must-see sights plus practical tips to make every hour count.

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What youโ€™ll find in this guide

Walking through Burgos means immersing yourself in a medieval city alive with history. For centuries it was a key trading crossroads linked to Flanders and wider Europe, and the footprint of El Cid Campeador remains everywhereโ€”from statues to street namesโ€”adding depth to the things to do in Burgos youโ€™ll experience now.

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Because the Camino de Santiago crosses Burgos, its cultural wealth takes on a spiritual edge. Winters can be crisp, but each season repaints the city in fresh tonesโ€”scenes worthy of a canvasโ€”and thereโ€™s always plenty to enjoy whenever you visit.

Vista aรฉrea de Burgos
Panoramic View of Burgos / Photo by Canva.com

Burgos is more than its history and weather. Its cuisine is a treatโ€”think morcilla, olla podrida, and roast lechazoโ€”and for art and science lovers, the Museum of Human Evolution is a must-see.

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In two days you can see the best of Burgosโ€”from its majestic Cathedral to the charming lanes of the old town. Stay at least one night to enjoy the lively evening atmosphere and the magic of its landmarks beautifully lit after dark.

In short, Burgos captivates at every turnโ€”a city to savor slowly and admire in all its grandeur. With our guide, you can plan an unforgettable getaway to one of Castilla y Leรณnโ€™s true gems. Donโ€™t waitโ€”Burgos is ready to welcome you.

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Glutendtrotters Tip

The best way to get to know Burgos first-hand is by joining a walking tour.

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Parking in Burgos: Best Spots & Tips

Weโ€™ve visited Burgos several times because itโ€™s close to us, and we always choose to drive. To keep things hassle-free, we park at the Plaza de Espaรฑa car parkโ€”central, reliable, and a perfect base for exploring the city on foot.

Must-See Places in Burgos

1. San Juan Square

In the heart of the city stands San Juan Square (Plaza de San Juan), a spot steeped in history and architectural charm. Ringed by notable buildings, itโ€™s a true gemโ€”and an essential stop on any 2-day Burgos itinerary.

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One of the standout buildings is the Church of San Lesmes, a superb example of Gothic architecture. Inside rests the tomb of Saint Lesmes (San Lesmes Abad), the cityโ€™s patron, whose presence lends the interior a calm, devotional atmosphere.

Right next door stands the Hospital de San Juan, a silent witness to centuries of care and hope. Its austere faรงade contrasts with the warmth inside, where attentive care and compassion have long been the true hallmark.

Plaza de San Juan y Monasterio de San Juan
San Juan Square & San Juan Monastery (Burgos) / Photo by Glutendtrotters

The Public Library, another landmark on the square, is a haven for curious minds. Its open doors invite you to dive into literature and culture, enriching anyone who seeks knowledge and beauty among its shelves.

The true jewel of San Juan Square (Plaza de San Juan) is the Monastery of San Juan, a striking 16th-century complex. Its peaceful cloister, history-rich chapter house, and the evocative ruins of its church make it a living testament to Burgosโ€™s past splendorโ€”and an unmissable landmark.

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2. Casa del Cordรณn: Historic Palace in Burgos

One of the most emblematic things to do in Burgos is visiting Plaza de la Libertad, dominated by the imposing Casa del Cordรณnโ€”the historic Palace of the Constables of Castile.

Casa de piedra con puerta de madera.

Casa del Cordรณn en Burgos

Fuente: Glutendtrotters
Facade of the Casa del Cordรณn, Burgosโ€”historic palace with the carved cord motif / Photo by Glutendtrotters

This magnificent Gothic civic building, commissioned in the 15th century by the Constable of Castile, Don Pedro Fernรกndez de Velasco, and his wife, Doรฑa Mencรญa de Mendozaโ€”the second Counts of Haroโ€”never fails to impress. Its faรงade features a broad Franciscan cord carved in stone, framing the portal like an alfiz, and two heraldic shields with the coupleโ€™s lineages above the main doorwayโ€”evoking an era of splendor and elegance.

The Casa del Cordรณn has witnessed major chapters of history, including the audience granted to Christopher Columbus by the Catholic Monarchs after his second voyage to the Americas, and the untimely death of Philip the Handsome (Philip I of Castile)โ€”events that left a lasting mark on the city.

Donโ€™t miss the chance to explore this architectural treasure and immerse yourself in the history within its wallsโ€”an unmissable stop on any 2-day Burgos itinerary.

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3. El Cid Equestrian Statue, Plaza del Mรญo Cid

Presiding over Plaza del Mรญo Cid, opposite the majestic San Pablo Bridge, rises the imposing bronze equestrian statue of the legendary El Cid Campeadorโ€”a classic stop among the things to do in Burgos. We couldnโ€™t fit it into our route this time, but weโ€™ll be back to see it up close and finally snap the photo we missed.

Monumento del Cid Campeador
Equestrian statue of El Cid Campeador in Burgos, Spain / Photo by Canva.com

This striking monument depicts the Castilian hero Rodrigo Dรญaz de Vivar (El Cid), beard streaming in the wind, astride his loyal steed Babieca. With the mighty sword Tizona in hand, he crosses the Arlanzรณn River at the moment he leaves Burgos for exileโ€”an image that captures his enduring legacy and a must for history lovers.

El Cid was born in Vivar, just 5 km from Burgos. The city preserves numerous traces of his presence, keeping the deep connection between the legendary hero and Burgos alive.

4. San Pablo Bridge (Puente de San Pablo)

The San Pablo Bridge, rising gracefully over the Arlanzรณn River, links Plaza del Mรญo Cid with Plaza del Conde de Castroโ€”a spot where Burgosโ€™s past and present meet. We couldnโ€™t fit it into our 2-day itinerary this time as it fell outside our route, but itโ€™s bookmarked for our next visit to see it properly and take the photo we missed.

Built in the 13th century, the San Pablo Bridge is the oldest of the twelve bridges spanning the Arlanzรณn in Burgos. It endured repeated flood damage over the centuries until a comprehensive restoration in 1955, when a series of sculptures depicting figures associated with El Cid was added.

Puente de San Pablo
San Pablo Bridge over the Arlanzรณn River, Burgos / Photo by Canva.com

The San Pablo Bridge is not only a feat of medieval engineering and architecture; itโ€™s also a silent witness to Burgosโ€™s history and evolution through the centuries. Its commanding presence and close ties to the legend of El Cid make it a must-see for visitorsโ€”and an essential stop on any 2-day Burgos itinerary.

5. Human Evolution Museum in Burgos (MEH)

Discover the story of human evolution at the Museum of Human Evolution (MEH) in Burgosโ€”a modern, world-class center that goes far beyond simply displaying archaeological finds. Set on Paseo de la Sierra de Atapuerca, itโ€™s a standout among the things to do in Burgos and a must for anyone interested in the origins of our species.

The Museum of Human Evolution (MEH) not only showcases some of the most significant discoveries from the Atapuerca archaeological sites; it also serves as an engaging learning center for visitors of all ages. Its location just a short walk from the spectacular Burgos Cathedral makes it easy to combine both visits in the same day.

Inside, the MEH leads you on an in-depth journey through human evolution, with an exhibition of 200+ original fossilsโ€”including remains of Homo antecessor, the โ€œMiguelรณnโ€ skull and the โ€œElvisโ€ pelvisโ€”iconic finds from the Atapuerca sites, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond its outstanding permanent collection, the MEH hosts temporary exhibitions, concerts, book presentations, and a wide range of educational programsโ€”experiences that enrich your visit and reinforce its status as one of Castilla y Leรณnโ€™s leading cultural institutions.

As part of the Atapuerca System, the MEH belongs to a wider program that includes the Interpretation Center, the Mina Esperanza, and, of course, guided visits to the Atapuerca archaeological sitesโ€”one of the worldโ€™s foremost locations for the study of human evolution, just 15 km from Burgos. Itโ€™s a key stop to build into your 2-day Burgos itinerary.

Itโ€™s a place where science and history intertwine to illuminate our human story. Donโ€™t miss it!

6. Paseo del Espolรณn: Statues, Arcades & Gardens

Discover the charming Paseo del Espolรณn, one of the classic things to do in Burgos. Dating from the late 18th century, this elegant promenade leads from the Arco de Santa Marรญa to the imposing Teatro Principal, perfect for a leisurely city stroll.

Bask in the serenity of this tree-lined, manicured promenade along the gentle waters of the Arlanzรณn River. Statues of four kings line the path, alongside the splendid Consulado del Mar and the Palace of the Marchioness of Vilueรฑa.

Paseo con รกrboles y gente paseando.

Paseo del Espolรณn en Burgos

Fuente: Glutendtrotters
Tree-lined Paseo del Espolรณn along the Arlanzรณn River, Burgos / Photo by Glutendtrotters

The area around the Teatro Principal, just behind Plaza del Mรญo Cid, is an ideal spot for a quiet pause or a photo sessionโ€”where history and beauty meet at every turn.

7. Arco de Santa Marรญa: Historic City Gate

Explore the history and beauty of the Arco de Santa Marรญaโ€”one of the twelve medieval gates and a classic stop among the things to do in Burgos. Rebuilt in the 16th century in Burgosโ€™s signature white limestone, its faรงade showcases Emperor Charles V alongside emblematic figures from the cityโ€™s past, including El Cid.

This imposing monument links the Santa Marรญa Bridge with Plaza del Rey San Fernandoโ€”home to Burgos Cathedralโ€”and rivals it in popularity as one of the cityโ€™s most photogenic spots.

Arco de Santa Marรญa
Santa Marรญa Arch leading into Burgos old town / Photo by Glutendtrotters
Commissioned as a tribute to Emperor Charles V on the occasion of his reception in the city, the Arco de Santa Marรญa has served many roles over the centuriesโ€”from Burgosโ€™s first town hall to the home of the Museum of Fine Arts until 1945. In 1943 it was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Today, the Arco de Santa Marรญa welcomes visitors as a Historical-Artistic Cultural Center, with museum spaces and temporary exhibition halls. Step inside free of charge to delve into Burgosโ€™s past and explore the cultural richness preserved withinโ€”an essential stop on any 2-day visit to the city.

Before you leave, take a moment to admire the magnificent mural by Burgos-born artist Vela Zanetti that dominates the archโ€™s main hall, dedicated to Count Fernรกn Gonzรกlez and the independence of Castile. And donโ€™t miss the panoramic view over the Paseo del Espolรณn and the Santa Marรญa Bridge from one of its turrets.

8. Burgos Cathedral: Gothic Masterpiece

The Cathedral of Burgos is a showstopperโ€”an architectural jewel of soaring beauty and scale, and one of the top things to do in Burgos. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, this imposing Gothic masterpiece is Spainโ€™s third-largest cathedral, surpassed only by Seville and Toledo, and an absolute must on any itinerary.

Built in the early 13th century in the Gothic style, the Cathedral of Burgos is one of the earliest Gothic landmarks on the Iberian Peninsula, modeled on Saint-Denis and Notre-Dame in Paris. Its essential structure was completed in under forty years and the cathedral was consecrated, securing its place as a milestone of medieval architecture.

Catedral de Burgos
West front of Burgos Cathedral with soaring spires / Photo by Glutendtrotters

Burgos Cathedral Interior

Inside rest the remains of the legendary El Cid and his wife Doรฑa Jimena, underscoring the siteโ€™s historic significance. Donโ€™t miss the whimsical โ€œPapamoscasโ€โ€”a clock figure that opens its mouth on the hour with each chimeโ€”a delight for both children and adults.

The funerary chapelsโ€”most notably the spectacular Chapel of the Constablesโ€”along with the magnificent Main Altarpiece and the finely carved choir stalls are among the masterpieces housed in this awe-inspiring cathedral.

On the outside, its four imposing facades, the elegant Gothicโ€“Plateresque lantern tower (cimborrio), and the two near-twin 13th-century spires stand as hallmarks of the city. Although only one 13th-century rose window survives, the cathedral remains an architectural marvel that never fails to amaze visitors.

Sillerรญa del coro en la Catedral de Burgos

Carved detail and choir stalls inside Burgos Cathedral / Photo by Glutendtrotters

Donโ€™t leave without snapping a photo beside the pilgrim sculpture in Plaza del Rey San Fernando, at the foot of the cathedralโ€”an unforgettable keepsake and a highlight of any 2-day itinerary.

9. St Nicholas of Bari Church

Exploring the area around the majestic Burgos Cathedral, youโ€™ll find another architectural gem among the things to do in Burgos: the Church of San Nicolรกs de Bari. It sits just a short flight of steps from the Santa Marรญa portal.

Built in 1408 atop an earlier Romanesque structure, this church is a landmark for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Inside, it preserves a Gothic altarpieceโ€”an exquisite masterpiece carved from Hontoria de la Cantera limestone, richly adorned with finely sculpted figures and Renaissance details that captivate at first glance.

Iglesia de San Nicolรกs de Bari
Church of St Nicholas of Bari on the hilltop / Fotografรญa: Glutendtrotters

It now hosts the San Esteban parish, following the opening of the Museum of the Altarpiece in the original Church of San Esteban.

Beyond its remarkable altarpiece, the Church of St Nicholas of Bari preserves other artistic gems: the 16th-century Cherubim Arch (Arco de los Querubines), the wooden altarpiece of St. Michael, and a Last Judgment painting. The magnificent main portal also deserves special attention, adding another layer of beauty and craftsmanship to this Burgos landmark.

Together with the nearby churches of San Gil and San Esteban, it forms a must-see Gothic trio in Burgos. Declared a Bien de Interรฉs Cultural (Site of Cultural Interest) in 1917, the Church of St Nicholas is an essential stop on any 2-day visit to the city.

10. Burgos Old Town

Explore the magic of Burgos Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with monuments and historic buildings that transport you back in time.

Casco antiguo de Burgos
Burgos old town streets near the cathedral, arcades and stone faรงades / Photo by Glutendtrotters

Stroll the picturesque streets of La Paloma, San Lorenzo, and Avellanosโ€”emblematic stretches of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through Burgos. Donโ€™t miss Plaza Huerto del Rey, an urban oasis of terraces thatโ€™s perfect for a relaxing break.

11. Burgos Main Square (Plaza Mayor)

For a perfect Burgos getaway, donโ€™t miss Plaza Mayorโ€”one of the essential things to do in Burgos. Its unique architecture, with colorful faรงades and elegant arcades, will transport you to another era.

Shaped over centuries, this square has long been a stage for Burgosโ€™s history and culture. At its heart rises the imposing City Hall, an architectural jewel that never fails to impress. Donโ€™t miss the Town Hall Gate, one of Spainโ€™s finest sculptural ensemblesโ€”a true masterpiece worth admiring up close.

Plaza Mayor de Burgos
Plaza Mayor of Burgos with arcaded buildings and cafรฉ terraces / Photo by Glutendtrotters
Walking through Plaza Mayor is like stepping into Burgosโ€™s past. Once known as the Weekly Market Square and later the Plaza del Mercado Menor, it was long the cityโ€™s commercial and social heart. Today itโ€™s still a lively meeting point, lined with traditional shops and emblematic cafรฉs, with a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to slow down and enjoy.

Whether youโ€™re starting the day with a delicious breakfast or pausing for a relaxed afternoon snack, Plaza Mayor is the perfect setting. Let the medieval charm and color-washed arcaded faรงades work their magicโ€”itโ€™s an essential stop on any 2-day Burgos itinerary.

12. Castle of Burgos โ€” Hilltop Fortress

Donโ€™t leave the Burgos Castle and Viewpoint off your plan. Perched on a hilltop, this emblematic site pairs sweeping city panoramas with a storied past: its origins go back to 884, when Count Diego Porcelos founded Burgos and established the fortress as a strategic watchpost for the Christian territories.

Burgos Castle is more than a defensive stronghold; in the 16th century it also served as a state prison that held prominent captives. It later became home to Spainโ€™s first artillery school and even operated as a gunpowder factory.

Today, the castle grounds have been transformed into Burgosโ€™s largest recreational park, with lanes dedicated to poets that lend a unique cultural, literary touch. A partial rebuilding of the fortress made way for an interpretation center, which opened to the public in 2003, inviting visitors to explore the siteโ€™s many historical layers and its significance to the region.

During your visit, you can descend into the well and explore the underground galleriesโ€”known as the Cueva del Moroโ€”which lend the experience a touch of mystery and adventure.

13. St Stephen Church

Declared a National Monument in 1931, the Church of San Esteban is one of Burgosโ€™s finest landmarksโ€”an essential stop on any visit. Inside, it houses the Museum of the Altarpiece (Museo del Retablo), featuring an outstanding collection of 16thโ€“18th century retablos and several notable tombs that reflect the regionโ€™s history and devotion.

Iglesia de San Esteban
Facade of the St Stephen Church, Burgos โ€” Gothic stonework and tower / Photo by Canva.com

The San Esteban complex includes the church itself (still in use for worship), a crypt, and a cloister accessed via the street that climbs from the town square to the main portal. Inside youโ€™ll find remarkable details: an 8th-century baptismal font, the Romanesque Cristo del Perdรณn, splendid mid-16th-century choir stalls, and an exquisite Rococo organ.

It enjoys a prime location next to the Castle and the Caja de Burgos Art Center (CAB), whose terrace offers sweeping views over the city centerโ€”adding even more appeal to your cultural experience in Burgos.

14. Monastery of Las Huelgas

Affectionately known as Las Huelgas Monastery, the Royal Monastery of Santa Marรญa la Real de las Huelgas is a jewel of Spanish heritage near the charming Paseo de la Isla. Founded in the 12th century by King Alfonso VIII and Eleanor of Plantagenet, this Cistercian nunnery is Spainโ€™s most prominentโ€”and one of the essential things to do in Burgosโ€”serving as the principal model for Cistercian houses in the Crown of Castile.

Monasterio de las Huelgas
Facade of the Royal Monastery of Las Huelgas, Burgos / Photo by Glutendtrotters
Its name, โ€œLas Huelgas,โ€ dates back to the Middle Ages and derives from holgarโ€”land left fallow for pasture. Conceived as a royal pantheon and a retreat for noblewomen, the monastery amassed extensive patrimony and privileges over the centuries. Inside, it preserves some of the oldest stained-glass windows in Spain, an artistic treasure that captivates visitors with its beauty and history.

You can also visit the Museum of Medieval Fabrics, admire the superb tombs of notable medieval figures, and learn about the Las Huelgas Codexโ€”one of Europeโ€™s key sources for Ars Antiqua polyphony. Home to a community of Cistercian nuns of St. Bernard, the monastery offers a uniquely serene, spiritual experience amid the bustle of Burgos.

15. Cartuja de Miraflores โ€” Royal Carthusian Monastery

Once a pleasure palace of Henry III and later the Royal Pantheon of Queen Isabella Iโ€™s parentsโ€”John II and Isabella of Portugalโ€”the Cartuja de Miraflores is an architectural and spiritual jewel of the city, and one of the essential things to do in Burgos. We couldnโ€™t fit it into this trip as it fell outside our route, but weโ€™ll be back to see it calmly and enjoy its historical and artistic value.

Cartuja de Miraflores
Exterior of the Miraflores Charterhouse, Burgos / Photo by Canva.com
Home to a community of monks of the Carthusian Order, this historic charterhouse traces its lineage to St. Brunoโ€™s 11th-century foundation at Chartreuse, France. A fascinating detail: the gilding on its sculptures was crafted with gold brought back by Christopher Columbus after his second voyage to the New World.

The exterior of the Cartuja de Miraflores is crowned with delicate spires and stone cresting, highlighting its architectural elegance. Itโ€™s an invitation to contemplation: a slow walk through the precinct and its surroundings reveals the harmony between nature and stone shaped into art.

Itinerary: 2 Days in Burgos

Day 1: Historic Burgos

Morning

  • Start at the Arco de Santa Marรญa, the old city gate.
  • Visit the Burgos Cathedral (UNESCO), including the tomb of El Cid and Doรฑa Jimena, the Papamoscas clock, and the Constablesโ€™ Chapel.
  • Stroll through the Old Town streets: La Paloma, San Lorenzo, and Avellanos.

Afternoon

  • Walk along the Paseo del Espolรณn and relax at Plaza Mayor.
  • Visit the Church of San Nicolรกs de Bari with its stunning stone altarpiece.
  • Climb to the Castle of Burgos for panoramic views.

Evening

  • Dinner in the old town with local specialties (morcilla de Burgos, roast lamb).
  • Enjoy the illuminated view of the Cathedral from Plaza del Rey San Fernando.

Day 2: Art, Monasteries & Culture

Morning

  • Explore the Museum of Human Evolution (MEH) and learn about the Atapuerca discoveries.
  • Optionally visit the Atapuerca archaeological sites (15 km from the city).

Afternoon

  • Visit the Monastery of Las Huelgas, a royal Cistercian monastery with centuries of history.
  • Continue to the Cartuja de Miraflores, a Gothic treasure housing royal tombs and Gil de Siloรฉโ€™s altarpiece.

Evening

  • Stroll around the Plaza de San Juan and the Monastery of San Juan.
  • Farewell dinner in a gluten-free friendly restaurant, like En Tiempos de Maricastaรฑa or Villa Trajano.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Burgos (Celiac-Safe)

Burgos offers more than a cultural feastโ€”it invites you to savor its superb cuisine. Its famed morcilla is a signature dish, but not the only treat. Start with olla podrida, sopa castellana, or sopa burgalesaโ€”comforting classics that showcase the regionโ€™s flavors.

Risotto de cuatro queso en Villa Trajano
Four-Cheese Risotto at Villa Trajano / Photo by Glutendtrotters

While many of these dishes are naturally gluten-free, you should always consider potential cross-contamination. We recommend two places where weโ€™ve eaten with peace of mind: En tiempos de Maricastaรฑa, a gastrobar with gluten-free adaptations in an excellent spot near the cathedral; and Villa Trajano, an Italian restaurant with a wide menu of delicious gluten-free pizzas and standout serviceโ€”ideal for families.

Ensalada con edamame

Restaurante: En Tiempos de Maricastaรฑa (Burgos)

Fuente: Glutendtrotters
Restaurant โ€œEn tiempos de Maricastaรฑaโ€ โ€” Near the Cathedral / Photo by Glutendtrotters

Map of restaurants

Burgos Tourist Pass: What It Includes & How It Works

If you love Gothic architecture, the Burgos City Council has you covered: the Tourist Wristband gives you access to the cityโ€™s four signature Gothic landmarks with a single pass.

Where do you get it? Head to the Cathedral ticket office and pick one up. The wristband includes entry to Burgos Cathedral, the Church of San Nicolรกs de Bari, the Museum of the Altarpiece, and San Gil Church. Best of all, it has no expiration date.

Note that once you take it off, the wristband becomes invalid. As for timing, it depends on your pace, but the City Council suggests allowing at least 1 hour for the Cathedral and around 20 minutes for each of the other three sites. All of them are within a five-minute walk of the Cathedral, so you can easily see everything in a single day.

Our plan for a perfect 2-day Burgos getawayโ€”covering the essential things to do in Burgosโ€”ends here. If you still have time and energy, consider exploring the province: thereโ€™s plenty more to see. Here are a few worth adding to your list:

Search the Map for Burgos Monuments

Charming Towns & Villages in Burgos (Province)

Covarrubias

An enchanting village just 40 km from Burgos, Covarrubias has been inhabited since the Paleolithic and later by Romans and Visigoths. Closely linked to Count Fernรกn Gonzรกlez, it has witnessed key chapters of Castilian history. Although most of its medieval walls have vanished, it remains one of Spainโ€™s most beautiful villages, with plenty of sights to explore. Donโ€™t miss it on a 2-day Burgos itinerary.

Plaza de Covarrubias con varios edificios alrededor
Covarrubias / Photo by Glutendtrotters

Donโ€™t miss the Fernรกn Gonzรกlez Tower, the Ex-Collegiate Church of San Cosme y San Damiรกn, the remnants of the medieval walls, and the statue of Princess Kristina of Norway, which commemorates the townโ€™s historic ties with Norway. Admire traditional architecture at the Casa de Doรฑa Sancha, delve into local history at the Church of Santo Tomรกs, and leave time for the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and the Museo del Libro.

Just 3 km from the center, the Ermita de San Olav (St. Olav Chapel) embodies a striking fusion of tradition and modernity.

Santo Domingo de Silos Monastery โ€” Romanesque Cloister

The Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos, in the province of Burgos, stands as a symbol of monastic life and medieval art in Spain. This Benedictine complex, with both a medieval and a modern cloister, blends history, spirituality, and architecture. Highlights include the church, the great hall rebuilt after the 1970 fire, and above all its famous cloisterโ€”the true heart of monastic life, reflecting the abbeyโ€™s evolution over the centuries.

Another gem is the library, home to around 400 ancient works, along with the apothecary, which showcases the communityโ€™s scientific legacy. The monastery museum also displays Mozarabic and Romanesque sculptures, archaeological finds, and valuable pieces of goldsmithingโ€”giving visitors a deeper understanding of Silosโ€™s influence on Spanish and European culture.

Lerma

Lerma stands as a symbol of history and architecture, proudly recognized as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain. This distinction, granted in 2017, highlights its cultural heritage and exceptional beauty, with a preserved medieval atmosphere that enchants visitors. Be sure to add it to your 2-day Burgos itinerary for a truly complete experience.

Arco de la cรกrcel en Lerma
Arco de la Cรกrcel (Prison Gate) in Lerma / Photo by Glutendtrotters

The town, with pre-Roman origins, reached its height in the 17th century under the influence of the Duke of Lerma, favorite of Philip III. During his rule, emblematic landmarks were built, including the Ducal Palace (now a Parador hotel) and the Plaza Mayor, one of the largest squares in Spain. The Collegiate Church of San Pedro and the Monastery of Santa Clara stand as prime examples of the rich religious architecture that defines the area.

Beyond its historical richness, Lerma also offers a standout culinary experience with its signature dish, roast suckling lamb (lechazo asado)โ€”best enjoyed alongside wines from the Arlanza Denomination of Origin.

Also read: Things to do in Lerma

Orbaneja del Castillo

Orbaneja del Castillo is a storybook village tucked into the Sedano Valley, in the shadow of the Ebro River canyon. Despite its tiny population of just 47 residents, it draws countless visitors each year, captivated by its spectacular waterfall and breathtaking natural surroundings.

The history of Orbaneja del Castillo is closely tied to the caves surrounding it, silent witnesses of prehistoric times. The Cueva del Nรญspero, for instance, served as a refuge during the Epipaleolithic, while the Cueva del Azar preserves valuable examples of cave artโ€”providing a tangible link to the regionโ€™s ancient past.

Orbaneja del Castillo
Orbaneja del Castillo / Photo by Glutendtrotters

One of Orbaneja del Castilloโ€™s standout attractions is its 25-meter waterfall, fed by an aquifer in the Pรกramo de Bricia. This natural wonder splits the village into two parts: La Villa and La Puebla. The water flow changes with the seasons and rainfall, yet the cascade remains a constant presence, adding a magical touch to the landscape.

Ojo Guareรฑa Caves and Natural Monument

Discover a fascinating karst complex in Castilla y Leรณnโ€”an underground adventure within one of the most extensive cave systems on the Iberian Peninsula. With over 110 kilometers of explored galleries, Ojo Guareรฑa is not only a natural monument of major geological and archaeological significance but also an exciting destination for explorers and nature lovers alike.

Designated a Natural Monument in 1996, this complex is a geological marvel. Archaeological findings show that Ojo Guareรฑa served as a human refuge from the Middle Paleolithic through the Middle Ages, adding deep historical significance to its already striking natural features.

Monumento natural de Ojo Guareรฑa
Ojo Guareรฑa Natural Monument (Burgos Province) / Photo by Glutendtrotters

In addition to its rich history, Ojo Guareรฑa is home to more than 180 species of invertebrates, making it a key site for biodiversity and scientific research. To learn more about this vast karst complex, visit the interpretation center in Quintanilla del Rebollar, just 6 km from the main cave, where detailed exhibits and educational activities enhance the experience.

If youโ€™re looking for a unique adventure in a spectacular natural setting, Ojo Guareรฑa is the perfect destination.

Explore Charming Towns & Scenic Spots of Burgos on the Map

Your journey through Burgos in 2 days may be coming to an end, but the city still has so much more to offer. Overflowing with art, history, and gastronomy, itโ€™s the perfect destination for travelers seeking more than just a quick getaway. From the majestic Burgos Cathedral to the charming corners of the old town and its famous morcilla, every experience is unforgettable. And donโ€™t stop at the cityโ€”its surroundings are filled with scenic landscapes and historic gems, making them essential things to do in Burgos beyond a 2-day itinerary.

If youโ€™re inspired to go further, places like the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos or the Ebro River canyon in Orbaneja del Castillo will amaze you. And, since we always think of fellow glutendtrotters, remember that Burgos offers plenty of gluten-free dining options, so you can enjoy the local cuisine without worries.

Get ready for a truly complete getawayโ€”and above all, share your experience with us. Your tips can inspire and help other travelers in the community.

FAQs

In 2 days you can visit Burgos Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the historic center with the Arco de Santa Marรญa, Plaza Mayor, and Paseo del Espolรณn, climb up to the Castle viewpoint, and explore the Museum of Human Evolution. Outside the center, add the Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores to complete the must-sees.

Day 1: historic center (Arco de Santa Marรญa, Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, Paseo del Espolรณn) and sunset at the Castle viewpoint. Day 2: Museum of Human Evolution in the morning and, in the afternoon, visit either the Monastery of Las Huelgas or the Cartuja de Miraflores. Book tickets in advance to save time and walk whenever possible.

Plan between 60 and 90 minutes for a standard visit with audioguide. Advance booking is recommended on weekends, holidays, and peak season to secure your entry time and avoid queues. Check schedules and possible liturgical events before going. Various discounts are available for seniors, large families like ours, or unemployed visitors, among others.

Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer has longer daylight hours and more lively streets, but also higher occupancy and occasional heat waves. Winter is cold, yet the city retains its charm without mass tourism.

The most practical option is to leave your car in a public car park near the center and explore on foot. Look for parking areas around the Paseo del Espolรณn and the Arlanzรณn riverbank, or regulated zones outside the old town. Always check signs and restrictions. More details in the post.

Yes, the historic center is compact and flat, perfect for walking. For longer distances or to reach the Castle viewpoint, you can take a city bus or taxi. Visits to the Cartuja de Miraflores or Las Huelgas can be done on foot or by public transport/taxi, depending on your time.

Choose accommodation in the historic center or near the Paseo del Espolรณn to be close to the Cathedral and main attractions. Areas around the Arlanzรณn River are also a good choice for their tranquility and easy walking access to the main sights.

Yes, more and more restaurants and cafรฉs offer gluten-free alternatives. Always ask about cross-contamination and safe handling, check menus beforehand, and if possible, contact the venue to confirm. We recommend the restaurant En Tiempos de Maricastaรฑa, located on the Paseo del Espolรณn.

Top options include the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos, Orbaneja del Castillo, and the Ebro Canyon, along with historic towns across the province. With a car, you can combine them with viewpoints and short hikes; organized tours are also available depending on the season.

Yes. The pedestrian center, riverside parks, and interactive museums like the Museum of Human Evolution make it very family-friendly. Plan frequent breaks, include viewpoints and open spaces, and choose shorter activities to keep the little ones engaged.


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About the author

ยกHola, soy Rita! Cofundadora de Glutendtrotters y experta en turismo con mรกs de 20 aรฑos en el sector hotelero. Apasionada de los viajes y mamรก de tres hijas, comparto destinos y consejos para disfrutar aventuras inclusivas, especialmente para celรญacos. Me encanta el teatro, la moda y una copa de vino al final del dรญa.


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