Lérida : book your hotel

Bursting with character and colour, Lérida has a richly multicultural history and perches on a hill overlooking the Segre river, set on a fertile plain in northern Spain.

Known as Lleida in Catalan, Lérida is a joy to explore with friends and family. Marvel at the Seu Vella, an ancient cathedral that dominates the city from the summit of its landmark hill, discover other historic buildings, walk along the banks of the Segre and admire the beauty of the surrounding countryside. If you're a keen shopper, Carrer Major is pedestrianised street that runs for two kilometres and is lined with boutiques and stores. Here you're sure to find souvenirs of your stay in Catalonia – then make the most of your stay in Catalonia by sampling its delicious local specialities! To help you organise your trip, here is our advice on what to see and making the most of Catalan cuisine or the city's nightlife, and suggestions on the best hotel for your stay in Lérida.

The ancient Catalan cathedral of Seu Vella is the symbol of Lérida. Built in a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, the cathedral dominates the city from its hilltop, and its imposing towers can be seen all over the city. Peek inside to admire its three naves and stroll in the cloisters. A few steps away, you'll find remnants of Lérida's ancient walls, along with sections of the Moorish fortress of La Suda, which previously stood on this spot.

Retrace your steps back down the hill to explore the old town of Lérida and its historic treasures, starting with the Paeria Palace – now the city hall – in the piazza of the same name. This unusual landmark has a double facade: one is medieval and looks out over its namesake square, while the second is renovated in neoclassical style and overlooks the Segre river.

From here you can visit Lérida's second cathedral – the Seu Nova new cathedral, built in neoclassical style from white stone. Its neighbour in the Plaza de la Catedral is the Antiguo Hospital de Santa María, an historic convent where you can admire a pretty arcaded courtyard and temporary art exhibitions in its Flamboyant Gothic interior.

Constructed by the Knights Templar on Gardeny Hill, edging the city centre, Château de Gardeny began life as a convent, and then a fortress. Today it is a vital stop on a tour of former Knights Templar properties in the region. Two features stand out in particular in this grand, monumental complex: the once-fortified tower and the Romanesque Santa Maria de Gardeny church.

For time in the open air amid greenery, you're best to head to Lérida's Arborètum botanic gardens. Divided into four zones and displaying plants from all corners of the globe, they offer quiet moments in between sightseeing visits. Another of Lérida's green treasures is Mitjana Municipal Park, where you can follow boardwalks and biking trails through riverine wetlands. And finally, Camps Elisis Park is a lovely spot for a picnic around the water gardens or tree-shaded promenade, taking a selfie at the bandstand or by the Font de la Sirena fountain and sipping a coffee in Modernista-style Xalet Café.

Lérida is home to several interesting museums if you fancy a bit of culture during your stay. The Museum of Lérida features an important collection of paintings, sculptures, tapestries and other decorative arts, from which you can learn much about the history of the city. The Jaume Morera Art Mu­seum displays contemporary artworks by Catalan artists, including paintings, photos and futuristic installations, while lovers of Spanish modern art can also visit La Panera Art Centre. For something completely different in subject matter, the Museu de l'Automoció Roda Roda immerses visitors into the history of the car industry and has a standout collection of vintage models – it's a perfect destination for families!

Distinctive and diverse, Catalan cuisine will tempt the most discerning of gourmets. While staying in Lérida, try snails a la llauna, baked in garlic and spices. Prefer seafood? Order salted cod with escalivada, a dish made with aubergines, onions, red peppers and tomatoes. For dessert, sample the local cristinas de San Blas, sugared buns filled with truffles or custard, or simply served plain. When you're out and about, treat yourself to regional produce including grilled onions, hearty sausages, charcuterie cuts, fried or grilled fish and seafood. Head for the historic centre of Lérida to find the most authentic restaurants.

Want to sample Lérida's nightlife? After dark, adopt the traditional Spanish habit of strolling the streets, hopping into bars for a quick bite of tapas and a sherry before continuing the evening in a cocktail bar. Like all Spanish towns, Lérida has lots of places where you can party in summer as well as a year-round nightlife scene. Most bars and clubs are found in the old town and its surrounding streets. Have fun finding your perfect night out!