A 30-minute walk west of the city centre on the southern river bank, this monastery was once among the most prominent monasteries in Spain. Founded in 1187 by Eleanor of Aquitaine, daughter of Henry II of England and wife of Alfonso VIII of Castilla, it's still home to 35 Cistercian nuns. If you've come this far, join a guided tour (otherwise only a small section of the church is accessible), which takes you through the three main naves of the church.
This veritable royal pantheon contains the tombs of numerous kings and queens, as well as a spectacular gilded Renaissance altar. The highlight, though, is the Museo de Ricas Telas , reached via a lovely Romanesque cloister and containing bejewelled robes and royal garments.
To get here follow the river via Calle de la Merced and Avenida de Palencia, turning left on Calle Reina Leonor. The monastery is signposted.
