Leon Spain on the Camino de Santiago

In León, Spain we stayed aet the Parador Hotel. The Parador de León, housed in the magnificent Convento de San Marcos, is one of Spain’s most stunning historic hotels. Stepping inside feels like entering a Renaissance palace—its grand façade, intricate cloisters, and rich tapestries evoke centuries of art, faith, and royal hospitality. Even if you're not staying overnight, it's worth visiting just to experience the elegance and quiet majesty of this former pilgrim hospital turned luxury retreat.

León, Spain is a historic gem nestled along the Camino de Santiago, offering pilgrims and travelers alike a vibrant blend of medieval charm and cultural richness. Walking through its stone-paved streets, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the León Cathedral—a soaring Gothic masterpiece often called the “House of Light.” The kaleidoscope of color from its 13th-century stained-glass windows was absolutely breathtaking, casting a warm, ethereal glow across the cavernous interior. Just a short walk away, we visited the Basílica de San Isidoro, a Romanesque treasure housing the Royal Pantheon. The frescoes here, painted nearly 1,000 years ago, felt astonishingly alive—some of the best-preserved examples of Romanesque art in Europe.

Another highlight was the Casa Botines, one of the few buildings outside of Catalonia designed by Antoni Gaudí. Its fairy-tale turrets and gothic lines stood in dramatic contrast to the traditional architecture surrounding it. We also wandered through the Convento de San Marcos, now a luxury Parador hotel, once a medieval monastery and pilgrim hospital. In the evening, we found ourselves in the Barrio Húmedo, León’s lively old quarter. Surrounded by locals, we sampled delicious free tapas with our drinks—slices of cecina (dry-cured beef), garlicky mushrooms, and spicy chorizo—all shared in the shadows of ancient Roman walls. León’s sights aren’t just beautiful—they’re steeped in stories that made our journey unforgettable.

A phot opportunity at the Leon sign was a must.