A Local's Guide to Leon's Barrio Húmedo, Spain
The Barrio Húmedo is located in the Spanish city of León and is part of its Old Town. The name roughly translates as the ‘Wet District’, so called because of the number of bars and pubs located in the area. Read our guide on how to best explore it.
What to see?
The Barrio Húmedo is a circular area in the centre of the city, running from Las Cercas street, up to Calle Ancha and across from La Rua to Caño Badillo street. At its centre sits the lively Plaza de San Martín, where you can find many bars and restaurants. There are also a number of sights to see, such as palaces and churches.
Palacio del Conde Luna
The Palacio del Conde Luna was built in the 14th century for Don Pedro Suarez de Quiñones and his wife Doña Juana González de Bazán. It’s built in a Gothic-Mudejar style and is available to view upon appointment.
Iglesia de San Salvador de Palat del Rey
The Church of San Salvador de Palat del Rey is the oldest church in the city. It was built in the 10th century by King Ramiro II, who originally constructed it as a monastery. The main chapel was built in the 16th century and is filled with remains of colourful murals.
Where to eat?
El Rebote
If you like croquetas (deep-fried croquettes), then you’ll love El Rebote, as it’s famous for them. Instead of regular croqueta flavours such as ham or mushroom, they have innovative varieties such as pizza, beef or even jalapeño chili pepper.
El Rincon Gaucho
This cute little bar offers a limited number of tapas options, which are all equally tasty. Try the traditional Leonese sopa de ajo (garlic soup). Thick and fragrant, it’s made from crusty bread and roasted garlic.
Where to drink?
Ginger
Ginger sits right at the top of the Barrio Húmedo, a funky and colourful bar, filled with mismatched 1970s-inspired furniture. Sip delicious cocktails surrounded by palms, patterned wallpapers and bare brick. This fun bar definitely won’t disappoint.
Calle Ancha, 14, León, Spain +34 630 43 46 33
Luna 9
Another great bar for a drink in the Barrio Húmedo is Luna 9. It’s ideal for a coffee in the morning, as well as a cocktail or beer in the evening. With tables both indoors and outdoors on the terrace, it’s perfect for any time of the year too.
Calle Conde Luna, 9, León, Spain +34 687 45 03 16