Valladolid

Valladolid is the capital of Castile and León and one of the most important cities in inland Spain. With around 300,000 inhabitants, it combines historic heritage, first-class gastronomy and a strategic position in the heart of the plateau. The Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful in Spain, marks the centre of the city and is the starting point for exploring the old town, with the unfinished Cathedral, the church of San Pablo, Casa de Cervantes and numerous palaces and museums.

Valladolid gastronomy is one of its main draws. Roast lamb from a wood-fired oven is the star dish, along with suckling pig, Castilian soup, Zaratán sausages and traditional desserts such as baker's doughnuts and mantecados. The city hosts the National Tapas Competition every year, attracting hundreds of establishments. Wines from the Ribera del Duero D.O. and especially the whites from the Rueda D.O. (Verdejo) accompany the table. Bars and restaurants in the centre offer quality Castilian cuisine.

Valladolid's Holy Week is declared of International Tourist Interest and is one of the most important in Spain. The processions march through the centre with floats of great artistic value. Beyond Holy Week, the Valladolid Fair and other festivals enliven the calendar. Valladolid also has the National Museum of Sculpture, one of the most important in Spain, with an exceptional collection of religious imagery.

Valladolid is very well connected: it has a high-speed rail station (Valladolid-Campo Grande), an airport and motorways linking it with Madrid, Burgos, León and Salamanca. The climate is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. It is a safe, quiet city, well suited to those seeking culture, good food and wine tourism without the bustle of major capitals.