Valladolid

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Valladolid

Valladolid breathes history. This is the place where King Felipe II was born, the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabel were married, and Christopher Columbus died. This was once the capital of Spain, and although it has lost this title, it's still the principal city of Castilla y Leon, the land of castles from which the word ‘Castilian’ is derived. Today, Valladolid is a bustling university city that thrives on its manufacturing industries. It is a down-to-earth, lively place that blends the old with the energetic new.

The City

Valladolid may be known for its history and its ancient monuments, but it is nevertheless a modern city: the seamless blend of present and past give the city a rich character. Exemples are a Museum of Modern Art that resides in the cloisters of an ancient monastery, high-class restaurants with contemporary cuisine in sixteenth-century constructions, and students dancing to high-tech beats in the nightclubs of historic streets. When it's too much hustle, this is also a great place for relaxing. The city is located on the banks of the Pisuerga River, and it has capitalized on its waterfront location by creating an urban riverside beach. For all lovers of green grass, the popular Campo Grande is the place to go for a Sunday afternoon stroll. Then, of course, there is the culture. Valladolid is home to top museums, superb theatre and opera, and beautifully restored architecture of bygone times. If you love language, know that the Spanish spoken in Valladolid is said to be the purest in the whole country.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Valladolid offers a wide range of activities like theatres, historical sites, and many top museums. You may go look for beautiful and popular sites such as Plaza Mayor and Plaza de San Pablo, the Museo Nacional de Escultura, and the Museo del Arte Contemporaneo Español. There is so much to see and learn in this city, which has had such a huge impact on the history of Spain and the American continent! Tip: If you have never heard of the decisive Valladolid Controversy, consider reading up before your visit to better understand the city's complicated history.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is the main square of Valladolid and an unmissable sight. Flanked by vibrant red buildings, this glorious old square is located in the very heart of the city. In the summer, many outdoor activities take place making it the perfect spot for a coffee break with a nice view, notably on the …

Academy Of Cavalry

The Academy Of Cavalry is a beautiful building in the heart of Valladolid. This museum is located in the splendid building of the Academia del Arma. You can rarely visit the inside, but the outside is worth having a look with its impressive facade and …

Museo Nacional de Escultura

The National Museum - Museo Nacional de Escultura - is located right in the heart of Valladolid and it boasts a brilliant display of poly-chrome wood with the sculpture of the Spanish Renaissance. The museum is widely renowned for its high quality sculptures and historical …

Plaza de San Pablo

The Plaza de San Pablo is among the most important historical sights of Valladolid. Felipe II was born in the Palacio de Pimentel on the Plaza de San Pablo in 1527, and as testimony, a fabulous tiled mural relates the life of the king and the history of sixteenth-century Valladolid. In the square is …

Museo Oriental

The Museo Oriental offers a collection of exquisite examples of Chinese, Japanese and Filipino art, gathered during four centuries of Spanish missionary exploration. This museum is located in the Royal College of Augustinian Fathershe, built in …

Museo Casa Natal de Cervantes

The Casa-Museo de Cervantes is where Cervantes lived from 1603 to 1606, in what was then an unfashionable and malodorous district of Valladolid. It was then redecorated with more modern tastes and now hosts regular exhibitions related to Cervantes, the famous author of Don …

Santa Maria la Antigua

Santa Maria la Antigua - in English Church of Saint Mary the Ancient - was founded in 1095 but there are no remains of the original structure. The oldest surviving part is from the 12th-century. This symbolic church has four floors and is located in the heart of …

El Museo Patio Herreriano

This museum exhibits pieces of contemporary art from 1918 to the present day and is located in the cloisters of the Monasterio de San Benito. Make sure to stop by the book and souvenir …

Teatro Calderón

The Teatro Calderón, named after the playwright Pedro Calderón de la Barca, is Valladolid’s main theatre and concert hall. It has a lively programme of plays, jazz, opera and flamenco. It also hosts Seminci, the Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid (the International Film Festival of …

Museo de Valladolid

Just a few steps away from the river Rio Pisuerga, stop by Museo de Valladolid, one of the historic sites of the city. Divided into two sections, this museum features archaeological pieces of Valladolid as well as fine arts, including painting, sculpture, furniture and …

Campo Grande

This is the place in Valladolid to kick back and relax at any time of the day. This large and green park located in the city centre is a delightful place to stroll among the peacocks and red squirrels, or kick back with an ice cream and watch the locals at …

Centro Cultural Miguel Delibes

This beautifully designed concert hall opened its doors in 2007 and holds up to 2,000 people. Here you can enjoy an evening of top-notch musicals, plays, shows and concerts (check their website for programs). It also boasts one of the best and most modern restaurants in …

Museo Provincial del Vino, Peñafiel

One of Spain’s major wine producing regions is found in the area around Valladolid. Most of the actual bodegas don’t admit visitors, so this museum, which offers wine-tasting, guided tours, winery visits, is a good alternative. It is located in Peñafiel´s wonderful old …

City Bike Day Tour

Borrow a bike and explore Valladolid. A professional guide will share their local knowledge of the city in an entertaining, dynamic and funny way. The tour lasts for three hours and takes place during the daytime, or why not choose "Valladolid by Night" tour to explore the city under the …

Columbus Monument

You will find the Columbus Monument just outside the train station on the corner of Paseo de Filipinos, where it was inaugurated in 1905. The sculptor of this beautiful monument was made by Antonio Susillo, of Seville. The statue commemorates the death of Columbus, which took place in …

Estacion de tren del Campo Grande de Valladolid

Valladolid's U shaped train station is an interesting piece of architecture, designed by French architect Enrique Grasset in the style of French eclecticism. The main facade, which is configured as a triumphal arch, is made of stone and its three large openings that serve as entrance doors are separated by …

Casa Museo José Zorrilla

The Zorrilla Museum is located in what was once the summer home of the poet Juan Zorrilla de San Martin, in the Montevideo neighbourhood of Punta Carretas. It houses documents, belongings and furniture of the poet and has a room for temporary exhibitions in which art exhibitions, concerts, readings and other cultural activities take …

Palacio Real Testamentario De Isabel La Católica

The Valladolid Royal Palace in Plaza de San Pablo was the official residence of the Kings of Spain in Valladolid when it was the seat of the courts. It was inhabited by the Spanish monarchs Carlos I, Felipe II and Felipe III and Napoleon Bonaparte during the War of Independence. Numerous structural changes have …

Wamba Ossuary

One of the largest ossaries in Spain, this macabre vault in Santa Maria Church contains the skeletons of thousands of monks and villagers. An unusual attraction, the Ossary is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (Friday: 16:30-18:30, Saturday 10:30-13:30 and 16:30-18:30, Sunday 10:30-12:00 and …

Museum of African Art

Once a private collection, this free museum is divided in to 3 separate rooms with over 130 exhibits, ranging from the 5th century BC to the 20th …

Castle of Simancas

Perhaps the most important historic archive in Europe, many important historic treaties were once signed in this intimate, fortified complex. A short journey from the city centre, the castle is free to enter, and offers tours to help guests better understand the historical significance of each …

Christopher Columbus Museum

This extensive collection of all things Christopher Columbus is housed over four floors in the centre of Valladolid. Learn about the voyages of Columbus and Spain's conquests in America. Lovers of old maps and machinery will delight in the interactive exhibits, while the top floor, dedicated to life in medieval Valladolid, should be visited …

Dining

Valladolid is famous for its suckling lamb, as well as all the other Castilian specialities such as suckling pig, game and rabbit, which are often served in rich, juicy stews. But anyone needing a break from this hearty fare will find plenty of other options here in Valladolid. The city has experienced a boom in tapas bars in recent years, and there are plenty of international eateries serving everything from pizzas to pancakes. The streets around the Plaza Mayor are teeming with good restaurants and tapas bars.

Crepería Eh Voilà

This creperie is a good place to go for a more casual bite, or if you’ve had enough of rabbit stews and suckling lambs. It serves both savoury and sweet crepes, as well as lasagnas, salads, quiches and so on. The settings are modern and arty, but the dining room a bit small so …

La Parrilla de San Lorenzo

Offering a luxurious museum-like decor and outsanding value for money, La Parrilla de San Lorenzo is famous for its suckling lamb but also specializes in grilled meat and fish dishes. It is located beneath the San Lorenzo Church, close to the Pisuerga …

La Taberna del Herrero

This place is popular among locals. It serves all the Spanish staples – ham, lomo, chorizo, morcillas, gazpacho and so on – just a little bit above the Plaza Mayor. The speciality is definitely Tapas, and it is probably one of the best places in Valladolid.to eat …

Restaurante Niza

Restaurante Niza is a pizza restaurant with a sleek modern interior. On the menu, you will find wood-fire pizzas, salads, pastas, exotic gourmet meals and amazing desserts. An excellent value for money, which makes this, place one of the hottest restaurants in town. …

Cepa 21 Restaurante

Cepa 21 Restaurante is situated in the heart of the Ribera del Duero, in the province of Valladolid and has an idyllic setting, overlooking the winery of the same name. The menu is based on traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist and can even surprise the most demanding …

Wabi-Sabi Taberna Japonesa

At this restaurant, you can discover a blend of traditional Spanish ingredients with Japanese cuisine. Wabi-Sabi was actually the first Japanese restaurant in Valladolid and introduced the new concept of fusion food for the locals. The restaurant has a lovely, modern decor and is situated a few steps away from the Plaza …

La Viña de Patxi

Paradise for the seafood and fish lovers, La Viña de Patxi is known for its traditional Spanish cuisine with a creative twist. It is a bit pricier than most venues in Valladolid but it is well worth it. This is a small restaurant and quite popular so good advice is to book in …

Le Bistró

At Le Bistro you will find a fine selection of International and French cuisine with several types of cheese fondue and meat dishes. If you are very hungry, rejoice, because the portions are generous. This French bistro has an intimate and friendly ambiance and the service is …

La Tagliatella

Discover the taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a laid-back and sophisticated environment at restaurant La Tagliatella and enjoy the high-quality homemade cooking. To get the perfect flavours of Italy, the restaurant seeks its ingredients from the Italian regions of Liguria, Piemonte and Emilia …

Gastrobar Sabores

When dining at Sabores, you will be able to choose from a wide variety of international cuisine such as paella, wok, pasta and homemade desserts. The emphasis is however put on fish and seafood and all are fresh and yummy. The restaurant is ideally located in the centre of Valladolid and during the warmer …

Los Zagales

This restaurant has won numbers of awards for their mouth-watering tapas dishes. Here you can choose from a wide variety of dishes, tapas, pinchos and wines for a reasonable price. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere and is located in the city …

Bar La Sepia

Bar La Sepia is a family-run business and has been operating since 1974. It is a typical tapas bar and has two venues in Valladolid, both situated in the city centre and offering food for a reasonable price. Although the menu is limited, the dishes are done very well with fresh and high-quality …

Trigo

Trigo is a restaurant that serves local Spanish cuisine. The young professional team in the kitchen gracefully combine traditional flavours and technics with the best raw materials the season has to offer. This gourmet restaurant is specialising in meat and fish dishes. …

Ponte Vecchio

This Italian and Mediterranean Pizzeria offers a great meal in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Even the decor will make you feel like you are spending a few hours in ancient Italy. Although the Pizzas are the star of the menu, don't miss out on the …

Jero

Located in the centre of Valladolid. Jero is an award-winning restaurant and a local classic. It serves a large variety of inventive and fresh tapas, you really cannot go wrong no matter which one you choose. The service is fast and pleasant. Try the "Café de …

Cafes

After a long day of sightseeing, you will find plenty of opportunities and cute places where to relax with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Head over to the elegant space of Plaza Mayor, a meeting point for locals, where many of the coffee shops are to be found. Have a cup of coffee in the sunshine and enjoy people-watching while enjoying Spanish treats and pastries like the rosquillas de palo, or sticky donuts, and the arroz con leche, or rice pudding.

El Largo Adiós

El Largo Adiós, located just by the cathedral, is a cafe with an atmosphere that will take you back to another era, an era of arts and literature, a time when people read while sipping on their coffee and did not think of social networks and coffee chains. Added bonus: it has a terrace …

Cafetería El Decano

Cafetería El Decano has been operating since 1987 and is ideally located on a square. It is also situated opposite the Law School which means many students are frequently visiting this bar. In addition, there is free WiFi network access provided here for the customers and yummy …

Bars & Nightlife

Valladolid is a university town, resulting to a great local bar scene. Be warned though, Valladolid is a Spanish city and nightlife kicks off late. Eat dinner at ten, and then move on to a bar or three before checking into a nightclub at two or three in the morning. Don’t worry too much about your beauty sleep – that’s why Spain and its inhabitants invented the siesta. At night, the air is cooler and the young Spaniards emerge to party through until dawn. Valladolid has an energetic night scene: you may not be home in time for breakfast.

Café Cervecería

This is not only a cafe where you can enjoy coffee, breakfast, lunch and tapas but also an Irish-style pub where you can enjoy a nice fresh pint of beer, chosen from a selection of over 100 different beers -including, of course, Guinness. It also has a beer …

Discoteca Kerala

Kerala is a luxury nightclub with about 1,300 square meters, three different rooms, four bars and an amazing decoration and sculptures imported from India. This club will definitely give you an experience to remember! You can also book it for groups or …

El Buzon

Open since 1986, El Buzon is located in the heart of the city centre, an English styled bar that offers a wide range of domestic and imported beers. You can also enjoy well-prepared drinks and cocktails such as the signature mojitos. It is a very animated and fun …

Cafetería El Decano

Bar El Corcho

One of the busiest and popular places in the town of Valladolid is called El Corcho. This bar serves snacks, drinks and tapas in a great atmosphere and is always filled with families, friends and couples. Its croquettes ("croquetas") are famous and you should really try …

Café Berlin

Another cash only place in Valladolid, Cafe Berlin has been rocking the cafe-bar scene in the city for almost 30 years. It has gained its fame through an always positive atmosphere and for their themed parties. It's a very particular bar with a loving crowd that just can't get enough of it. Also hosting …

Microbodega Urbana

Microbodega Urbana is exactly what its name says it is: a small bodega right in the city. In the summer, it becomes really vibrant and takes over the street, with people chatting and enjoying themselves outside. It serves the classic offers of a bodega: great wines and cheese …

Bar Málaga

Bar Málaga brings the Malagan spirit to Castilla! This classic tapas bar is a genuine and cool spot, which specializes in potato based tapas - a specialty from Málaga. The main feature is the amazing "patatas al remolino", but you can also eat other tapas such as the fried …

Porta Caeli

This multi-purpose hall and concert space has live entrainment of every music genre: Rock, Punk, Heavy, Metal, Hip hop, Fusión, Mestizaje, Indie, Pop, Ska, Cantautor, Blues - you name it! On Fridays and Saturdays, the place turns into a nightclub after the concerts, so you can continue the party all night …

La Villa Gin Bar

La Villa Gin Bar place the focus on quality: here you will only find the best brands of spirits, the best quality of ice, and the best bartenders. The owner has received awards for its well-served gin but is not resting on its past success. Your drink will usually be accompanied by nuts and …

El Niño Perdido Cocktail's Bar

El Niño Perdido Cocktail's Bar is a genuine place, with a mysterious-looking interior and great cocktails. The prices are lower than in most bars of Valladolid and the cocktails are really worth the detour, even the way they are presented is different and fun. A must in …

Shopping

Shopping in Valladolid might not be to the scale of bigger cities like Madrid, but it remains a pleasant experience, with many options, enough food shopping available to keep the sugar level high, cute shops - all of which in mostly pedestrian streets. The main shopping street of Valladolid is Calle de Santiago, which runs between Plaza Mayor and Plaza de Zorrilla. To the East of Calle de Santiago lies Calle Mantería which is a pedestrianized walkway featuring shoes, clothes, cakes and many other delightful things. The big brands tend to cluster on Paseo de Zorrilla, on the western flank of Campo Grande, and you can for example find the famous El Corte Inglés in this zone.