Free walking tours in Villafranca del Bierzo and what to see

Must-sees

Villafranca del Bierzo is a classic stop on the Camino Francés, where the rivers Burbia and Valcarce meet. At the entrance is the Romanesque church of Santiago, with the Puerta del Perdón, where sick pilgrims could receive the same graces as in Compostela. Close by stands the castle-palace of the Marquises of Villafranca, privately owned and seen from outside.

Heading down to the centre you reach the Plaza Mayor, with arcades and terraces, and Calle del Agua, lined with noble houses bearing coats of arms. The collegiate church of Santa María, the church of San Nicolás and the convent of San Francisco complete the religious heritage. The town lives off the wine of the Bierzo designation of origin, made from the Mencía grape, and off its cooking, in which botillo takes centre stage.

Free tours and guided visits

Pay-what-you-like free walking tours are not common in Villafranca. The norm is guided tours of the historic centre, focused on the Camino de Santiago and the churches, and visits to local wineries with tastings. The most recommended excursion is to Las Médulas, ancient Roman gold mines declared a World Heritage Site, best explored with a guide. You can also go to Ponferrada to see the Templar castle or climb to O Cebreiro, already in Galicia.

How long to spend

The town can be seen in half a day, about four hours with stops at the churches and a glass of wine in the Plaza Mayor. Two days in the area makes sense. Spend the first on Villafranca and a winery and the second on Las Médulas, with time to climb to the Orellán viewpoint. If you add Ponferrada, it fits nicely into the afternoon of the second day.

Where to stay

The best place to sleep is the historic centre, near the Plaza Mayor or Calle del Agua. You will have restaurants and bars a few steps away and a quiet atmosphere at night, livened up by pilgrims in season. There are also quieter places to stay by the river. If you are driving, look for one with parking, as the centre has narrow, steep streets.