Top reasons to visit Palencia
- Historic Attractions: Explore the stunning Palencia Cathedral and various museums that showcase the region's rich history.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like ziplining and golfing at Aguas Golf Course for an adrenaline-filled experience.
- Charming City Centre: Stroll through the picturesque city centre, filled with friendly locals and vibrant nightlife.
- Day Trips: Visit nearby towns like Villamuriel de Cerrato and Carrión de los Condes for historical treasures.
- Varied Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to cosy hostals, catering to all travellers.
Find great hotels in and around Palencia
Discover a range of accommodation options in Palencia, Castile and León, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly hotel for a family vacation or a comfortable hostal for business travel, Palencia offers a variety of choices to suit your needs. Explore the top hotels to ensure a delightful stay in this charming Spanish city.
- AC Hotel Palencia by Marriott: This 4-star hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and practical amenities, making it ideal for both family and business travellers. Rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests, AC Hotel Palencia is equipped with child-friendly services, including free cribs and babysitting options available for a fee. Located conveniently within Palencia, this hotel features a variety of amenities designed to ensure a pleasant stay, including a well-equipped fitness centre and a stylish bar. Its focus on family-friendly services sets it apart, providing a welcoming environment for guests with children.
- Hotel Eurostars Diana Palace: With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this eco-certified 4-star hotel is a great choice for environmentally conscious travellers. Situated in Palencia, it boasts modern facilities that cater to business travellers while promoting sustainability. The Hotel Eurostars Diana Palace features elegant accommodations, a well-appointed restaurant, and spaces for meetings and events. Its commitment to eco-friendliness ensures that guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while minimising their environmental impact, making it an appealing option for those prioritising eco-conscious travel.
- Hospedium Hotel Europa Centro: Located 8km from Palencia, this 4-star hotel has received an 8.4 out of 10 rating from guests, reflecting its quality and service. Hospedium Hotel Europa Centro caters to families with children and is also pet-friendly, allowing some pets onsite. Guests can enjoy amenities such as free cribs and a breakfast option for children at an additional fee. The hotel provides a warm atmosphere that is particularly welcoming for families and travellers with pets, ensuring a comfortable and accommodating stay.
Where to stay near Palencia
Palencia, nestled in the heart of Castile and León, offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and romantic escapes. Visitors can explore the charming city centre, rich in history and friendly locals, while enjoying vibrant nightlife. Nearby towns like Villamuriel de Cerrato and Carrión de los Condes invite day trips filled with historical treasures. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or unique experiences, Palencia promises an unforgettable journey.
- Grijota: Located 6km from Palencia, Grijota is a quaint city that offers a unique cultural experience. The area sees a moderate influx of travellers, particularly between March and April and again in June. Visitors are drawn to Grijota for its charming landmarks, including a beautiful local church that reflects the city's rich heritage. The peaceful surroundings and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Spanish culture while enjoying a slower pace of life.
- Venta de Baños: Situated 11km from Palencia, Venta de Baños is a vibrant city that welcomes visitors year-round, though it sees a peak in tourism from July to September. This city boasts fascinating attractions, such as an ancient monastery and various places of worship that showcase its historical significance. Additionally, the archaeology and anthropology sites offer a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the region, making it an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts. The lively atmosphere and diverse cultural offerings make Venta de Baños a delightful destination for all travellers.
- Villamartín de Campos: Also located 11km from Palencia, Villamartín de Campos is a charming city that invites exploration throughout the year, with a notable uptick in visitors during the summer months. The city is home to impressive monuments and symbolic landmarks that tell the story of its past. The picturesque landscape and serene environment provide an ideal backdrop for leisurely strolls and cultural discovery. Villamartín de Campos is perfect for those keen to experience the authentic essence of Castile and León while enjoying its scenic beauty.
Things to do in Palencia
Shopping
In the heart of Palencia, you can explore local boutiques and artisan shops for unique gifts. For a broader selection, head to the nearby Espacio León shopping centre, which offers various brands and dining options. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the larger Plaza del Lomo shopping mall for more choices.
Recreation
Explore the tranquil setting of the Spa Hotel Villa de Saldaña, where you can indulge in relaxing treatments and rejuvenating therapies. Enjoy a peaceful walk in the surrounding countryside or unwind in the serene atmosphere of the spa’s thermal baths.
At Balneario de Olmedo, immerse yourself in natural thermal waters and benefit from various wellness treatments. After your spa experience, take a stroll around the picturesque gardens for a dose of fresh air and tranquillity.
Adventure
In Palencia, explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Fuentes Carrionas and Fuente Cobre-Montaña Palentina Natural Park, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. For a unique experience, try canyoning in the nearby canyons, where you can navigate through thrilling water courses and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Nightlife
In Palencia, enjoy a lively night at La Taberna de la Calle, where you can savour local wines and tapas. For dancing, head to Sala Black Room, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music. Alternatively, unwind at Café Bar El Coto, a favourite among locals for its relaxed vibe.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Palencia
For a budget-friendly visit to Palencia, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays offer the best deals for stays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and sort by price to find the best offers. Additionally, combining your hotel with flights and activities in an Expedia package can lead to substantial savings. Look out for deals on hotels like the AC Hotel Palencia for great prices.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Palencia are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Palencia is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Palencia is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Palencia with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Palencia
Palencia is an ideal destination for those seeking a cultural, outdoor, or romantic getaway. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the Palencia Cathedral and various museums and churches that highlight the region's rich history. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in local culture or enjoying a sports experience, Palencia offers a range of activities that cater to all tastes.
- Museum of Palencia: Discover the rich history of Palencia through its exhibits that showcase local art, archaeology, and heritage. The museum offers a cultural immersion that highlights the region’s past, making it an engaging stop for history enthusiasts.
- Plaza Mayor: This lively square serves as the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture and bustling cafés. The vibrant atmosphere invites visitors to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the cultural essence of Palencia.
- Palencia Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is renowned for its impressive façade and intricate interior. Visitors can explore its chapels and learn about its historical significance, offering a serene yet enlightening experience.
Best time to go to Palencia
The best time to visit Palencia can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Palencia falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Palencia falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Palencia
Arriving in Palencia, Spain, can be easily accomplished via several nearby airports. Valladolid Airport (VLL) is situated 42km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star AC Hotel Palacio de Santa Ana by Marriott, and the 4.5-star Marqués de la Ensenada, both 11km from the airport. León Airport (LEN), located 113km from Palencia, offers the luxurious Parador de León, only 5km away, while the AC Hotel León San Antonio by Marriott is a 4-star choice 6km from the airport. Lastly, Salamanca Airport (SLM-Matacan) is 143km away, with the 5-star Hotel Rector 14km from the airport, ensuring comfortable stays for travellers.