Things To Do
in Leganés

Leganés is a municipality located in the south of the Madrid metropolitan area, in Spain. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including various festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. Leganés is also home to several parks and green spaces, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling city life.

The city has a strong sense of community and offers a range of amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
  • Coffee: $1.50 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Discover Legans
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parroquia de San Salvador, a beautiful church that offers a glimpse into local history. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Parque de Polvoranca to enjoy the nature and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a local tapas bar, trying out traditional dishes in the lively atmosphere. Post-lunch, visit the Museo de Escultura, where you can admire Spanish sculptures and artworks.

evening
:

Relax at the Plaza de España, where you can enjoy a coffee while people-watching. For dinner, try a local restaurant featuring regional specialties.

day 2
Cultural Escapade
morning
:

Visit the Centro Cultural José Saramago to catch an art exhibit or a local performance. Take time to appreciate the creative vibe of the area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café nearby, then head over to the Parque de La Fortuna for a leisurely walk. This urban park has playgrounds and beautiful gardens that make for a perfect picnic spot.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in dinner at a local pizzeria. Later, enjoy a movie at a nearby cinema to end the evening with entertainment.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Madrid: Leganés is located just a short distance from the capital, making it convenient for commuters.
  • Affordable living: The cost of living in Leganés is generally lower compared to central Madrid.
  • Good public transportation: The city has a well-connected public transport system, including metro and bus services.
  • Cultural activities: Leganés offers various cultural events, parks, and recreational facilities that enhance the quality of life.
  • Family-friendly environment: The city has many schools, parks, and family-oriented services.
  • Limited nightlife: Compared to Madrid, Leganés has a quieter nightlife scene.
  • Less touristy: Leganés may lack the tourist attractions found in larger cities, which could be a downside for visitors.
  • Traffic congestion: Commuting to and from Madrid can lead to traffic issues during peak hours.
  • Limited job opportunities: While proximity to Madrid helps, the local job market might not be as diverse as that of the capital.
  • Potential for urban sprawl: As a growing city, there may be concerns about urban development and loss of green spaces.

Best Activities in Leganés

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Parque Polvoranca

A large park with walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and a small lake for boating.

Parque de la Chopera

A scenic park with green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths along the river.

Cerro de los Ángeles

Hiking and nature trails with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Leganés Central Park

A popular spot for outdoor fitness activities, jogging, and leisure walking.

Tours

Uncover the best of Leganés with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Leganés

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Polvoranca

Offers beautiful natural landscapes and walking paths, ideal for nature photography.

Cerro de los Ángeles

Provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and iconic sculptures, perfect for cityscape photography.

Parque de la Chopera

Features a riverside setting with picturesque bridges and green spaces, ideal for capturing natural scenery.

Plaza de España

Presents architectural and historical landmarks, perfect for capturing urban landscapes and cultural photography.

Iglesia de San Salvador

Boasts impressive architecture and traditional Spanish charm, suitable for capturing religious and cultural photography.

Food in Leganés

Leganés, a city in Spain, offers a rich culinary experience with a focus on traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. The local food scene is known for its flavorful dishes, vibrant food markets, and welcoming cafes and restaurants.

Leganés Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cocido Madrileño

A hearty stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, chorizo, and various meats. One of the best places to try this dish is at Casa Emilio, a popular restaurant in Leganés.

Must-Try!

Callos a la Madrileña

A traditional Madrid-style tripe stew cooked with chorizo, morcilla, and chickpeas. La Marisquería El Puente is known for serving delicious Callos a la Madrileña.

Pisto

A flavorful Spanish ratatouille made with tomatoes, onions, eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. El Rincón de Javier is a great place to enjoy authentic Pisto in Leganés.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Leganés better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Leganés

This bustling food market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. Visitors can also find food stalls serving authentic Spanish street food like bocadillos and empanadas.

Plaza de España

The plaza is known for its vibrant street food scene, with vendors offering churros, roasted chestnuts, and traditional tapas like patatas bravas and croquetas.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, particularly July and August, temperatures can frequently exceed 30°C (86°F), with plenty of sunshine and little rainfall. In contrast, winters are cooler, with average temperatures ranging between 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F), and occasional frost during the coldest nights. Rainfall is primarily concentrated in the spring and autumn, with the summer months typically being quite dry. The annual precipitation averages around 400-600 mm (15-24 inches). The dry summer conditions contribute to a generally low humidity level, while the transitional seasons provide a more moderate climate. This overall climatic pattern supports a variety of outdoor activities, making it a pleasant location for residents and visitors alike throughout much of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

In Leganés, it is important to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. The typical greeting is 'Hola' for hello and 'Adiós' for goodbye.

Respect for Mealtime

Spanish mealtime is an important social occasion. It's courteous to keep your hands on the table instead of your lap, and to wait until the host or the eldest person starts eating before you begin.

Fiesta and Siesta

Leganés has a strong culture of enjoying festivals and taking afternoon siestas. It's respectful to participate in local fiestas and avoid making loud noise during siesta time, usually between 2 pm to 5 pm.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Leganés with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Situated in the Madrid metropolitan area, this city generally enjoys a reputation for safety. The crime rate is relatively low compared to larger urban centers, which makes it a comfortable place for both residents and visitors. Common concerns regarding safety, such as petty crimes like pickpocketing, are not as prevalent. However, as in any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places or during nighttime. Local law enforcement is proactive, and there is a community focus on maintaining public order. Various community programs and awareness campaigns contribute to enhancing safety perception among residents. Emergency services are readily accessible, and the well-structured public transport system allows for easy mobility within the city and beyond. Overall, most people find it a secure environment for daily activities and interactions.

Tipping in Leganés

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Leganés, Spain, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A typical tipping amount is around 5-10% of the total bill.

Payment

Payment in Leganés, Spain, is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments. It is important to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller establishments, as they may not accept cards for small purchases.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Leganés.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

This is a great time to visit Leganés, as the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. You can expect pleasant temperatures and festive events, such as the Spring Carnival.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Leganés brings hot and dry weather, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season with many outdoor activities and cultural festivals taking place.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and the beautiful changing colors of the surrounding landscape. It's a good time for outdoor activities, and you can also experience traditional harvest festivals and local markets.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Leganés are mild with occasional rainfall. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy Christmas markets, festive decorations, and seasonal delicacies. It's also a good time for indoor cultural activities and exploring local museums.

Leganés at Night

Nightlife in Leganés offers a vibrant and diverse experience for locals and visitors alike. The town, situated just outside Madrid, boasts an array of bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can start your evening at one of the many traditional tapas bars, enjoying delicious Spanish snacks paired with wine or beer. As the night progresses, many head to the lively plazas where outdoor terraces are filled with people socializing and enjoying the mild Spanish evenings. For those looking to dance the night away, Leganés has several nightclubs featuring various music genres, from Latin beats to electronic dance music. Live music venues are also popular, showcasing local bands and artists. In addition to the typical nightlife spots, Leganés hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, which add a unique flair to the evening activities. Local theaters and cinemas also offer late-night shows, providing entertainment options beyond the usual social spots. Whether you're looking to unwind with friends over drinks, dance until the early hours, or enjoy a cultural outing, nightlife in Leganés holds something for everyone.

Hiking in Leganés

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Polvoranca

A large park with various trails suitable for hiking, offering beautiful views and a peaceful natural environment.

Monte de El Pardo

A popular hiking area close to Madrid, featuring scenic trails through the forest and historic sites.

Sierra de Guadarrama National Park

A stunning national park with numerous hiking trails for all levels, known for its mountainous landscapes and diverse wildlife.

La Cuenca del Río Manzanares

A beautiful area near Madrid known for its river trails and natural scenery, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Cerro de los Ángeles

A historical site with hiking trails, providing panoramic views of the surrounding areas and a chance to explore local history.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Leganés through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Leganés by plane.

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD)

The main international airport serving Madrid, located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Leganés, it is one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport (LECU)

A smaller airport primarily for general aviation, located about 15 kilometers from Leganés. It offers limited commercial flights.

Torrejón Air Base (LETO)

A military air base located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Leganés, sometimes used for cargo and military flights.

Segovia Airport (LESG)

Located roughly 75 kilometers northwest of Leganés, this airport serves general aviation and occasional charter flights.

Albacete Airport (LEAB)

Situated about 160 kilometers southeast of Leganés, it primarily handles domestic flights and occasional international charters.

Walkability

Walkability in this suburban area near Madrid offers a mixed experience. The city features several pedestrian-friendly zones, especially in its central districts, where you'll find a concentration of shops, restaurants, and public spaces, making it convenient for residents to walk to essential services and amenities. The infrastructure includes sidewalks and crossings, although some areas may have limited accessibility or be less maintained. Public transportation options such as buses and light rail complement walking, providing access to other parts of the region, including Madrid itself. Green spaces and parks enhance the environment for walkers, promoting a healthier lifestyle. However, certain neighborhoods may lack the same level of walkability, with some routes requiring the use of vehicles more frequently. Overall, while the city has made strides in creating walkable areas, there are still improvements to be made to ensure a cohesive experience for pedestrians throughout the entire city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Spanish Nationals

The majority of the population in Leganés, comprising local residents who are native to Spain.

Immigrants from South America

A significant demographic group, including individuals from countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

Immigrants from Eastern Europe

This group includes residents from countries like Romania and Bulgaria.

Moroccan Community

One of the largest non-European immigrant groups in Leganés, primarily consisting of Moroccan nationals.

Other European Nationals

Includes individuals from various other European countries, though in smaller numbers compared to the main groups.

Sub-Saharan African Community

A smaller demographic group with various nationalities represented.

Asian Community

Includes residents from countries such as China and India, representing a minor portion of the population.

The Soul of Leganés

Discover the essence of Leganés through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Leganés, with local teams like CD Leganés competing in professional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following in Leganés, with various local clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.

Handball

Handball has a significant presence in Leganés, with clubs and competitions encouraging participation at different levels.

Athletics

Athletics is popular in Leganés, with various events and a dedicated athletic club supporting runners and field athletes.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity in Leganés, with many residents participating in recreational and competitive cycling events.

Traffic

The city experiences a mix of urban traffic typical of metropolitan areas, with a significant number of vehicles commuting daily due to its proximity to Madrid. Main roads and highways connect it to the capital, leading to congestion during peak hours, especially in the mornings and late afternoons when people are commuting to and from work. Public transportation plays a crucial role in mitigating traffic, with options like suburban trains (Cercanías) and bus services that provide alternatives to driving. However, the streets can become quite busy, with some areas experiencing limited parking availability, encouraging the use of public transit or carpooling. Bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways have been introduced in certain parts of the city to promote sustainable commuting. As a result, while traffic congestion is an issue, efforts are being made to improve mobility and reduce reliance on cars. Overall, the traffic conditions reflect a blend of urban life, influenced by the nearby capital while maintaining a distinct local character.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leganés.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants and cafes in Leganés offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as patatas bravas, gazpacho, and mixed vegetable paella. La Huella, a vegetarian restaurant, is a top choice for plant-based meals.

Gluten-Free Dining

Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at various eateries in Leganés. Some recommended dishes include grilled seafood, Spanish omelette, and Spanish cured meats. Restaurante El Laurel provides a dedicated gluten-free menu.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Leganés with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located in the Community of Madrid, the healthcare system in this area is part of the broader Spanish healthcare framework, which is characterized by universal access to services. Residents have the right to receive healthcare through the public system at little or no cost, funded primarily through taxes. The local healthcare infrastructure includes a range of facilities such as hospitals, health centers (Centros de Salud), and specialized clinics. The most significant hospital in the area is the Hospital Severo Ochoa, which provides emergency services and various medical specialties. Additionally, there are multiple primary care centers that focus on general healthcare, preventive measures, and outpatient services. Patients can access a wide variety of services, including general medical consultations, maternal and child healthcare, mental health services, and specialized care for chronic diseases. The emphasis is also placed on preventive health measures and public health campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles among the population. While the public healthcare system is comprehensive, there is also a private healthcare sector that offers additional options for those who may prefer quicker access to specialists or specific services. Many residents choose private insurance for this reason. Overall, the healthcare system in this region aims to provide equitable access to quality medical care, with a strong emphasis on public health and preventive services.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2024 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide