My tip“The palace takes about an hour. Combine it with the village of Castrillo de los Polvazares (6 km) in a single day from León. Ask whether the sweets are free of animal fat before you buy.”
An ancient Roman city (Asturica Augusta), known in Andalusi sources as Asturqa, and a key station on the pilgrim road to Santiago de Compostela. Its most notable building is the Episcopal Palace designed by Antoni Gaudí with white stone towers, alongside the cathedral and the Roman walls.
What to see
Gaudí's Episcopal Palace (Pilgrimage Route Museum) · the cathedral with its baroque façade · the Roman walls and their walkway · the “Roman Astorga” trail and the excavated baths · the Chocolate Museum and the local Magdalena sweet · the town hall square and its clock with figures
Easy to reach, needs a car
About two and a half hours by car from Madrid, or 45 minutes from León. The centre is flat and small and is visited on foot, with parking near the walls. Suitable for older people and strollers.
Address
Pl. Eduardo de Castro, 15, 24700 Astorga, León