How to Enjoy Burgos on the Camino de Santiago: What To Do & Where to Eat and Sleep

Is Burgos A Good Idea For A Camino Rest Day?

Absolutely – Burgos is a great choice for a rest day. On my first Camino Frances, this was meant to be my first, but blisters gave me an earlier break in Estella too!

Burgos is a popular choice because :

By the time you reach Burgos, you’ve likely walked around 300 kilometres and for many, this is the point where the aches begin to show and the idea of a lie-in becomes very appealing!

You’ll find great food, comfortable places to stay, and enough to see in a day without needing to walk too far.

Top Things to Do in Burgos for Pilgrims

The story of Burgos begins long before the Camino de Santiago. The nearby Atapuerca archaeological site holds remains of some of Europe’s earliest humans, dating back nearly a million years.

By the Iron Age, Celtic tribes had settled and the Romans followed; you’ll walk through Roman towns and roads on your way out of Burgos towards to Hornillos Del Camino.

Burgos was founded in 884 AD and quickly grew into a thriving destination along the Camino Frances. In 1221, work began on its magnificent Gothic cathedral — now considered one of the most iconic sites along the Camino Frances.

With so much history, there is a lot to see and do in Burgos and I’d recommend you tick off a least a couple of these incredible sights during your visit.

1. Catedral de Santa María de Burgos (UNESCO)

The Cathedral in Burgos is stunning.  A true icon of Spain, construction began in 1221 and continued until 1567, with many later additions.  For me, the cathedral exterior is almost like an elaborate wedding cake.  It’s stunning and like no other cathedral I’ve seen along the Camino

It was Spain’s first cathedral to be placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in it’s own right and inside you’ll find many treasures, including the tomb of El Cid, the golden staircase, elaborate choir stalls, and the Papamoscas automaton clock that chimes hourly.

Purchase your ticket before climbing the steps to enter; you’ll find the booth to the left of the steps.  And you can find a sello in the gift shop as you exit the Cathedral.

2. Arco de Santa María & Plaza de Rey San Fernado

The Arco de Santa María is one of the original medieval gateways into Burgos. Most pilgrims enter the old town and the Plaza Rey San Fernado through this gate; it’s at the end of the park alongside the Paseo del Espolón.

Whilst the Cathedral demands your attention, look around the plaza and you’ll find cafes, restaurants, a few tourist shops and even a bronze sculpture of a pilgrim resting on a bench with his back to the cathedral.

I always feel like this square and the Cathedral are the heart of the city.  There are many small roads leading to the left and right and indeed up and around the Cathedral and as a result I prefer to find accommodation nearby.

4. Castle & Mirador del Castillo

Many blogs, mine included, show a photo of Burgos Cathedral from above the city.  And I suspect most of these photos are taken from the ruined hilltop castle above the city.

The 9th-century castle ruins and those panoramic views can be reached either with a 20 minute uphill walk or you can opt for the little tourist train, which departs several times daily from Plaza del Rey San Fernando; go left from the cathedral and there is an information board for times and tickets.

In 2025 the castle was closed for renovation work, however, regardless of the work, the views from the top are worth the journey if nothing else.

5. Monasterio de las Huelgas

Founded in 1187 as a royal convent by King Alfonso VIII and Queen Eleanor of England. Edward I of England married Eleanor of Castile here in 1254, King Peter of Castile was born here and many future kings were knighted, crowned or buried here.  

It’s an easy walk from the city centre and if you’re looking to glimpse some of the city’s illustrious past then this is the place to visit.  You can explore the Romanesque-Gothic church, the cloisters, and the Royal Pantheon — and visit the museum of medieval textiles.

The site is open to visitors :

You must purchase your ticket in advance on the official website. Tours can also be booked but they are only also available in Spanish.

6. Old Town Walking Tour

We love a Guruwalk and it’s our go-to whenever we visit a new destination and luckily, there is a walking tour of the old town of Burgos. 

If you’d like to learn about the legacy left by kings, warriors and saints then this is the tour for you. The tour includes :

Don’t be put off by this long list, the old town is condensed, so you wont be walking too far and there are plenty of pauses for photos to ensure your feet aren’t working too hard on their day off!

Which Visit To Prioritise When You’re Short on Time?

Burgos is a big city with plenty to keep you occupied but most pilgrims have only one day and they’re ready for a rest day! 

If the idea of rushing around is too much then I recommend that you prioritise a visit to Burgos Cathedral.  It’s iconic and so very different from the other cathedrals that you’ll encounter along the way to Santiago de Compostela.

After this explore the plazas in the old town and stroll the shaded Espolón promenade, stop at one of the cafes, meander the old streets that lead away from the cathedral and soak up the city’s magic.

Festivals and Events in Burgos

I live in France and from May to September there is always a festival being celebrated somewhere; and Spain is no different.  In a land steeped in history and culture, local festivals remain an important link to the past.

If you’re walking the Camino de Santiago at the right time, you might be able to enjoy one of these glorious spectacles; this happened to us when walking into Leon during their San Froilán celebrations and it was well worth the impromptu extra day in the city!

I’ve included a sample of the largest festivals but it’s worth checking the tourist information calendar for smaller celebrations; our group once enjoyed a free late night concert!

1. Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Burgos holds celebrations, events and processions in the lead-up to Easter, with many processional floats — earning the city national tourist interest status.

Look out for the Vía Crucis, which climbs the castle hill by torchlight, or the Santo Entierro (Good Friday) which passes beneath the Arco de Santa María and the cathedral.

2. Sampedros: Festivities of Saints Peter & Paul

A major summer festivity celebrating Burgos’ patron saints, San Pedro and San Pablo. Locals set up market stalls and eateries across the centre plazas and Paseo del Espolón.

This celebration has a great party vibe and expect live music, fireworks, street performances, and communal dining.

We sadly missed the main fiesta during our first visit but did catch the last day of partying – I can only imagine what it was like for the main event!  Lucky pilgrims if you’re in town!

3. Curpillos at Las Huelgas

A medieval-style celebration held at the Monasterio de las Huelgas.  A colourful and joyful festival which has been declared as a festival of Regional Interest. Expect a religious procession, followed by a lively romería with local food stalls (morcilla, chorizo) and traditional dances (Gigantones and Danzantes).

The Curpillos or Corpus Chico is the maybe the most authentic Burgos festival and not celebrated in any other part of Spain.  The earliest mention was on the 22 May 1331 and the tradition continues every year.   

4. International Folklore Festival

The festival website says that the International Folklore Festival transforms the Burgos summer into an meeting point for world cultures.

​For five days, Burgos becomes the universal centre of peace, tolerance, diversity, and culture. Parades and processions through squares and streets, folklore entertainment, craft markets, exhibitions, dance workshops, music recitals, and performances and concerts!

Where to Stay in Burgos Whilst Walking the Camino

Burgos is a large modern city and offers a wide range of accommodation. I’ve stayed here many times and have always spent more than one night.  Whilst the old part of the city is quite compact, the city covers a wide area so I’d recommend that you find somewhere within walking distance of the Cathedral as this will be the centre of activities.

Hotels In The Historic Centre

There are too many hotels to list them all but, as with all my guides, I’ll share where I’ve stayed and loved and would choose to book again.

Pilgrim Albergues In Burgos

For all the visits I’ve made to Burgos, I’ve never stayed in an albergue but thankfully I have good friends who have. I will add that many of the albergue don’t get the highest ratings and I wonder if this is why the municipal (Casa del Cubo) is so popular and busy!

Apartments For a Rest Day

I love staying in apartments, even for a short stay; it’s ideal if you’d like to cook, do some laundry and have a little more space.  If you’re travelling solo it can be a pricey choice but better value if you’re sharing. 

Camping Near The City

Where to Eat in Burgos

Burgos is without doubt a great stop for pilgrims, but the eating schedules can nonetheless be challenging. Most cafés and restaurants do of course cater to their local Spanish customers with lunch around 12:30–14:30 and dinner after 20:00.

Thankfully, we’ve always managed to work with this schedule; often choosing a menu del dia at midday rather than a dinner in the evening.  But you do need to plan ahead.

Early Breakfast Options for Pilgrims

Finding breakfast when you leave early can be difficult. My first recommendation would be, if it’s offered by your accommodation, then say yes. If not, do find somewhere before leaving the city, as there are limited options for the first hour or two of walking.

I have also been lucky finding a coffee in Plaza Rey San Fernado, opposite the cathedral.  But usually not until 8am and even then options are limited. Also, if you’re gluten free like I am then keep your expectations in check!  I always carry a snack because often I’ve only found coffee early in the morning.

Top Tip : On your rest day, check opening times and locations the evening before; I’ll often ask at my accommodation for the best breakfast stop.  If there really are no local options then make sure you pack a drink and a snack for the road!  

Menu del Día & Lunch-Time Restaurants

There are many restaurants around Plaza Mayor, the cathedral and indeed the old town which offer a Menú del Día for under 20€.  I know folks feel they don’t want to this much but it represents excellent value for a lunch, so just choose something light and leave what you can’t eat.  Honestly, these menus and still my preferred way to enjoy a meal when walking the Camino.

A few of my favourite places include :

Every time I visit Burgos I spot a new place to eat, a new restaurant or bar offering something different.  There are many small eateries in the old town that offer a pilgrim-friendly prices.  Take a look as you explore and if you find somewhere that fits the bill, then take a break and enjoy your lunch!   

Evening Dining and Tapas Bars

It’s fair to say that whilst Burgos does have a tapas scene, it’s not on the scale that you’d find in Calle Laurelle in Logrono.  Nonetheless there are plenty of choices and the later you wander the more alive Calle San Lorenzo and nearby streets like Sombrerería become.  

If you’re planning on a rest day in Burgos then forgo the early night and go wandering and sampling the delights of this region of Spain!

There are many many more bars and restaurants where we’ve eaten in town but honestly my advice would be to head to Calle Lorenzo and follow your nose and eat with your eyes!  And wait until after dark if you really wish to make the most of the atmosphere.

Pilgrim Services in Burgos

Apart from being a great destination with loads of things to see and do and so much incredible pilgrim history, Burgos makes for a great rest day because it offers so many easily accessible services.

Where to Find Pilgrim Credential

Municipal Albergue Casa del Cubo at Calle Fernán González 28—just a minute’s walk from the Cathedral—sells and will also stamp your credential (pilgrim passport). It’s open year-round, often during hostel office hours.

You can also obtain a sello at the exit of the Cathedral gift shop but we did not see Credentials for sale. Also, whilst in Spanish, there is an active Friends on the Camino group in Burgos.  If you need specific assistance then perhaps reach out to them.

Top Tip : You might find reference to the Centro de Recepción de Peregrinos in Burgos but be aware that this is permanently closed and you should visit the Municipal Albergue which does offers credentials.

Outdoor Gear & Pilgrim Supplies

There are a few choices for replacing and buying new gear but do bear in mind the opening hours of shops in Spain!

There is a Decathlon store in Burgos but it’s out of the centre so you’ll need a taxi.  If you’re looking for something specific you can order it online and have it sent to the store, so that it’s waiting for you when you arrive

Another good choice is Summit Montaña & Outdoor on Calle San Pablo, is an easy walk from the Cathedral, and a popular  local outdoor gear shop. They do stock hiking poles, waterproofs, backpacks, and other walking essentials but the choice is smaller than a larger store.  But ideal if you’re looking for something close to the centre

Top Tip : I made the mistake of visiting a few ‘outdoor stores’ in town which were really a clothing store and not specific to hiking.  Do check out the reviews and any photos before wandering too far for your search!

Laundry

If you’re in an albergue or an apartment you’ll have access to washing machines. The Municipal Albergue Casa del Cubo (same place for credentials) provides washers and dryers for albergue guests, one reason why albergues are a great option.

Alternatively, a self-service lavandería (coin-operated laundry) at La Colada Burgos H3 or La Colada del Cid, lavandería autoservicio are not too far from the cathedral.

Alternatively, ask your accommodation for the nearest or for their own recommendation.

ATMs and Banks

There are plenty of ATM’s and Banks in the centre of Burgos but do be aware the charges and fees as the difference can be quite staggering!  ABANCA is my favourite for 24 hour ATMs and no fee; if you find one then stock up! Sadly the closest ABANCA branch is a ten minute walk from the cathedral but there are others with no or low fees.

You’ll find cajeros automáticos on Calle San Pablo and Calle Vitoria, just steps from the Cathedral. These are easy to access, offer English menus, and are active 24/7. They’re typically Santander, BBVA, and Caixa machines—all reliable for international cards but Santander and BBVA have charged me previously.

Health Care & Pharmacies

One of the major advantages of Burgos is that as a large city, it offers excellent health care facilities.   

For medical emergencies you should always call 112 and speak to the international operator

For minor ailments for many, the first port of call is a pharmacy. There are several along the route of the Camino as you enter the centre of the city; look for the green cross.   

Pharmacist in Spain, like many countries, are well qualified to give medical advice and are used to treating and managing the ailments and injuries of pilgrims.  Often they will speak some English and if not, I’ve also had luck speaking French.

The pharmacist may well send you to a medical centre if they have concerns.  Many pilgrims have praised the prompt care and attention received at :

Top Tip : A deroofed or infected blister can have serious repercussions so do visit a Pharmacy or the medical centre for professional advice. 

Religious Services & Mass Times

I know for many pilgrims in my walking groups, finding a church for Mass along the way is not always easy but thankfully there are a few options in Burgos.

One Way Bike Rental From Burgos

Can you rent a bike in Burgos to cycle the Meseta? Yes indeed you can and this is a question asked of me in both my Facebook group and indeed with my walking club. I’ve not done this myself but have met pilgrims who have; be warned a few said it was much harder than walking!

The following companies offer this service :

Looking for A Pilgrim Massage in Burgos?

On my last Camino Frances, a few of my group opted for a foot and leg massage and they swore by the results. If your legs are feeling tired and you’d love some specialist care then the following have been recommended on the Camino Forum and Facebook groups.

Ending in Burgos

If you can only spare two weeks, starting in St Jean Pied de Port makes Burgos an excellent end to your Camino.

I walk into Burgos via the river route, and regardless of what the arrows may say, I stay by the river until I reach Puente de San Pablo and the Museum of Human Evolution.  Cross the river there, walk by the Teatro Principal, and take the park alongside the Paseo del Espolón.

The shaded riverside promenade with benches and band-stand, and a few rather impressive statues sets the scene for your arrival under the Arco de Santa María.  From this grand city gate the Cathedral rises in front of you making for a rather magnificent and fitting end to any Camino.

Getting To and From Burgos

Burgos is well linked with trains and buses from major cities in Spain although there are limited flights into the airport.

Over the years I’ve used both trains and buses, including the night bus from Bordeaux and there have always been good options for onwards travel.

Burgos Bus Station for Local and Long-Distance

One of the great things about Burgos Bus Station is that it’s pretty central and an easy walk into the old centre.  I’ve arrived here both day and night and never felt unsafe, although I did jump in a taxi one morning at 4am after the trip from Bordeaux.

Buses run regularly from across Spain and our go to sites are often Alsa, Flixbus and Jiminez.  I also use Trainline (which also shows buses) when searching for potential routes (although I always book direct with the service provider).

Top Tip : Sometimes the low-cost bus services pick up and drop you near the motorway on the outskirts of the city.  Do ensure you have the correct address when booking your seat!

Burgos Train Station At Burgos-Rosa Manzano

Burgos train station is a taxi or bus ride away from the historic centre.  Do bear this mind when arranging transport and allow for rush hour traffic too.  The station is a key railway hub for Madrid and northern cities; indeed trains from Santiago can also go through Burgos.  Here’s a really useful map of the rail links and connections across Spain.

There are bus stops outside the station and regular buses will take you into town. I’ve hopped on one before; they don’t go into the historical centre so do expect a 5 minute walk but it’s a cheap and efficient way to access the centre.

Alternatively taxis are available or you can arrange for collection in advance with your hotel.

Burgos Airport But No Flights Available

If you opt for the river route along the Camino Frances, you’ll walk passed the small Burgos Airport.  Whilst the city boasts an airport there are currently no public flights available for this route.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burgos on the Camino de Santiago

I’ve tried to answer all your questions above but I know some things are asked again and again so here’s a quick reminder.

1. Is Burgos a good place to start the Camino de Santiago?

Yes, Burgos is a fantastic starting point. It offers excellent transport links, services for pilgrims, and a historic, inspiring setting with a UNESCO-listed cathedral.

2. Is Burgos Cathedral worth visiting?

Yes! Burgos Cathedral is a must if you’re visiting the city; it’s well worth the entrance fee but remember to take your credential as pilgrims have a discount.

3. Where can I buy a pilgrim credential in Burgos?

The best place to buy your pilgrim credential is the municipal pilgrim albergue, just behind the cathedral at Albergue de peregrinos Casa del Cubo y de los Lerma. They also offer sello too.

4. What’s the best way to get from Burgos to Madrid?

The quickest way from Madrid to Burgos is via the RENFE train; the journey is around 2 hours and can cost under 20€. If you prefer the bus, ALSA offer many buses from the capital; the journey is around 3 hours and costs around 22€

5. Are there vegan or gluten-free food options in Burgos for pilgrims?

There are limited choices for vegan food in Burgos but La Figa Ta Tia is a good option. For celiacs, many restaurants will offer gluten free choices although they’ll stress that the kitchen is not gluten free and there is a risk of cross contamination.

Two groups you should join are Vegetarians and Vegans on the Camino and Gluten Free on the Camino

Should You Visit Burgos When Walking the Camino?

I started writing this post because I noticed how little information exists for pilgrims visiting Burgos. It’s often seen as just a stopover — a rest day with a famous cathedral — but that sells the city short.

If you’re walking the Camino de Santiago, it makes perfect sense to linger in the iconic cities along the way. Pamplona and León get lots of love, but Burgos deserves more than a passing glance. I didn’t realise this when I first walked but over the years, I’ve discovered more than a few hidden corners.

There’s so much more here if you scratch the surface. Wander the old streets, try the local flavors, visit the Museum of Human Evolution, and take your time exploring the most majestic cathedral on the Camino.

Burgos has welcomed pilgrims for over a thousand years — let it welcome you too.

Are You Walking The Camino Frances?

I’ve walked this glorious trail many times and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re walking from St Jean Pied de Port onwards to Santiago de Compostela, I’ve written a detailed daily guides for each stage of the journey that you may find useful.