Ruins of Leon Viejo, Leon

Advantages: Architecture, history and authentic Spanish feel
Disadvantages: A long road from home

...León is a city and district in Northwest Spain, far from being typical English tourist territory. But this is where the Spanish tourists from the South of Spain come ! They know what is good for them! GETTING THERE = The only port you are likely to use from UK is the port of Santander, and you will have a day's drive to get to León. Airports that will speed you to León are Oviedo or Bilbao. You could drive up from Madrid, but even the Spanish do not seem to relish that length of drive. We drove from Oviedo in Asturias, where we were staying - reviews already written on Asturias and Picos De Europa. It was a pleasant jaunt on the motorway - about 2 hours drive. MAIN ATTRACTIONS = The CATHEDRAL dominates the skyline. The darkness at door level, leads into a massive space inside which is basically gloomy... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: lots of things to see, great atmosphere
Disadvantages: none

...Bilbao - what a beautiful city. It is comprised of several mini towns of which the most famous are deusto (where the Guggenheim museum can be found) and casco viejo. The latter is full off things to see. The best way to see Casco Viejo is definitely via the cable car which takes you high up above bilbao, giving you a magnificant view of the city. In casco viejo itself, there's a giant 'staircase' which takes you into the heart of the town. The town is marvellous for shopping with endless streets full of traditional small shops. You can often get yourself some bargains in the market which is situated near the marvellous theatre. Going across the bridge leads you to more streets where you can find everything from basque souvenirs to clothing stores. The best time to visit is definitely during the august fiestas. Two weeks of events... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Fun, sun and sea
Disadvantages: You eventually have to leave

...and the Caribbean Sea. There are many hiking trails, one of which will take you to La Mina Falls, a spectacular waterfall and pool system. Viejo San Juan (Old San Juan) is an area of town that contains buildings from the 16th century. One cathedral in town contains the tomb of Ponce de Leon. There are many shops, art galleries and restaurants on the narrow cobble stoned streets. It is also home to El Morro, the oldest fortification in the Western Hemisphere. Built in the 16th century and expanded over the centuries, this fort has survived invasions by the French, English, Italians and Dutch. Up until the Spanish-American war this fort had never been surrendered. The Bacardi Factory is across the bay from Old San Juan. You can take a ferry across the bay and then pay $1 for a ride in a public van to the factory. The tour is free and lots... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful