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If you are visiting Madrid, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Toledo and Segovia, the best day trip from Madrid.
These medieval cities are nothing less than breathtaking from the moment you contemplate the views from the outside and it gets better inside.
The reason why Segovia and Toledo are a great day trip from Madrid is that they are two of the most popular destinations in Spain and are very close.
If you want to find out the most efficient way to visit them and all the things you can do, you better keep reading.
Views from Toledo at sunset
The Roman Aqueduct of Segovia
Toledo and Segovia Day Trip From Madrid
If you don’t have much time, we suggest you check the Toledo and Segovia tour from Madrid.
This will provide you with the possibility of visiting these 2 stunning destinations efficiently. All you need to do is to jump on an air conditioned coach, and they will take care of the rest for you at a very reasonable price.
If you happen to have time to explore them freely, we give you some ideas about all you can do in the section below.
Things to do in Toledo
Plan your tailor-made trip to Toledo with the best things to see and do in this wonderful city.
We’ll take you through the most visited attractions, will give you some recommendations on the best places where to eat and also where to stay in Toledo.
One of the main entrances to the old city is by crossing Alcantara Bridge and enter the city passing through Alcantara Gate. It is the best way to get into the city, especially if you have taken a day trip from Madrid and you get there by train as the train station is within walking distance.
This point will give you a first impression of the beauty of Toledo by enjoying the views of the city and the Tajo river from the bridge.
From here you will also spot the wall that surrounds the medieval city, which you will be exploring soon.
Zocodover is the main square in Toledo, located in the heart of the city. In ancient times it used to be the Arabic market, as in Arabic Zocodover means “place of animals”. It was also used to celebrate events, bullfights, and executions in the past.
Nowadays, it has become a touristic hub and a perfect spot to have a break in one of its numerous outdoor coffees. From Zocodover you can also visit the Alcazar de Toledo, one of the main touristic attractions.
The Alcazar of Toledo is one of the most emblematic buildings in the city. It is also a highlighted element in its skyline.
Throughout the history of Toledo, the Alcazar had a very important role: it served many purposes, from being used as a castle, a fortress, a prison as the King’s residence and a military headquarters.
Nowadays, after having suffered severe damages during the Civil War and its posterior reconstruction, it serves as a military museum and as the regional library.
Toledo’s Cathedral is considered one of the most important Cathedrals in Spain. It is an impressive example of gothic architecture which was built over an old mosque.
From the outside, you can have an idea of the magnificence of this cathedral but it is worth to go inside. You will be in awe by the breathtaking size and features this cathedral proudly displays.
San Ildefonso Church, also known as Los Jesuitas chapel is a magnificent example of baroque style featuring an imposing facade worth to spend some time observing.
One of the most special things about this church is being located in one of the highest points of the city. Thanks to this, if you climb up the 138 steps of its tower you can enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the medieval city of Toledo.
One of Greco’s most famous paintings The Burial of Count Orgaz is found in Saint Tomé Chapel.
This 15 feet height painting is worldwide famous and very often reproduced. What you can see is a representation of the miraculous burial of the Count of Orgaz, who in his armor is being held by Saint Augustine and Saint Stephen while lowing him to his tomb.
One of the best ways to get an awe-inspiring view of the medieval town of Toledo is from the viewpoint of el Valle. It is located outside the city walls but is easily accessible from the city by taxi, touristic train or by bus.
We recommend you be there before sunset to get the best views of the city with the purple sky in the background while you see how the lights of the city begin to turn on. It is a magical moment that you cannot miss visiting Toledo.
One of the reasons why Toledo attracts so many visitors every year is not only to visit the city but also, to experience the culture from its local cuisine. There are lots of traditional dishes that contribute to such a tasteful experience, thanks to its fresh local ingredients.
Toledo has many traditional bars sprawled around the city where you can have a great taste of Toledo’s well-known gastronomy.
Some of the most popular dishes in Toledo are:
- Carcamusas. A traditional dish served hot, made with pork and seasonal vegetables stewed with tomatoes and bay leaves.
- Mazapan. One of the most traditional sweets in Spain and a must-eat at Christmas. Mazapan is made with egg yolks, almonds, and sugar.
- Pochas. A type of bean slowly cooked with chunks of meat and vegetables.
- Cuchifritos. This dish is generally made with meat, lamb or pork fried with vinegar and seasoning.
- Migas Toledanas. This traditional dish used to be the shepherd’s dish due to its basic ingredients. They are made with chunks of fried meat and garlic and then adding some bread. Delicious.
Walking around the Juderia (Jewish Quarter) will give you an idea of how important this area was in medieval times and how today it still keeps an important place in the Sephardic culture.
Inside the Jewish Quarter, there are different neighborhoods connected to each other through walls and narrow alleys.
Things to visit in the Jewish quarter are:
- Synagogue of El Tránsito.
- Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca.
The last stop in the itinerary will be at the San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery, a magnificent XV century Franciscan building in la Juderia, built under the orders of the Catholic Monarchs.
Use this visit to enjoy the peace walking around the late gothic-style cloisters and observe the impressive ceiling on the second floor, in Mudéjar style.
To check more information about this imposing monastery click here.
Discover Toledo at dusk, when the legends become alive. Learn the stories about templar knights, legends of love and hate, and narrations of duels for honor walking around the historic corners of this rich in history city.
This is a unique way of experience the city Toledo.
Best Restaurants in Toledo
Toledo has many restaurants sprawled around the city where you can taste the delicious gastronomy of the city. You can choose between having some tapas or you if you prefer you can also find set menus for less than 10 €. Those include two dishes, drink and dissert.
Some restaurants that we recommend to try are:
- La Fabrica de Harinas. An exquisite mix of traditional and modern cuisine with top quality ingredients. Their dishes are all heaven.
- Lo Nuestro. A picturesque restaurant in the heart of the city where you can enjoy some delicious traditional dishes from Toledo.
- Casa Ludeña. One of the most popular restaurants in Toledos and the tradition says this is where the famous dish of carcamusas was created.
- Comes Toledo. Italian restaurant featuring local ingredients in their dishes. Their menu is absolutely mouth-watering!
Where to Stay in Toledo
Whether you are visiting Toledo as a day trip from Madrid or staying in Toledo for a few days, we recommend you one of the best hotels in Toledo, San Juan de Los Reyes Hotel. Nestled in a 19-century building, declared a Site of Cultural Interest.
It is perfectly located in the Jewish quarter, known as La Juderia. There you will be nearby San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery, Santa Maria La Blanca and Transito Synagogues and the Greco Museum.
In terms of comfort, rooms in San Juan de Los Reyes Hotel are fully equipped, tastefully decorated and have super comfortable beds. Some rooms also feature breathtaking views of Toledo.
They also have their own restaurant Fabrica de Harinas where you can enjoy some of the most tasteful dishes in Toledo. In this highly rated restaurant, products are top-quality to mix traditional local cuisine with modern touches.
If you are looking for a unique stay in one of the most beautiful areas in Toledo, San Juan de Los Reyes Hotel is one of best option we found.
You can also use the map below for more options where to stay in Toledo.
Things to do in Segovia
The aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most stunning Roman monuments in Europe.
It runs 15 kilometers before it even reaches the city, which is pretty amazing.
The best place where to admire and enjoy the views of the aqueduct is in Plaza Azueguego. From here, you can choose from a view from one of the many terraces or maybe climb the stairs for a much better view of all the landscape.
The cathedral of Segovia was built in and old-fashioned gothic style.
It is conveniently located in the main square of the city.
We suggest you explore the main square to contemplate the cathedral and then visit the inside to admire its architecture and paintings.
Mirador de la pradera de San Marcos offers you the best views over the Alcazar of Segovia.
It is a quiet spot and a great place for a break an keep planning your route ahead.
Imposing on the top of a cliff, you can find The Alcazar of Segovia that has Roman and Moorish origins.
This is probably the most visited attraction in Segovia. We recommend getting a ticket with an audio guide so you can make the most of this tour. It will show you around the Throne Room and the Hall of Kings while offering amazing views from the towers.
It is quite big, so allow at the very least a few hours for a complete visit.
The Jewish Quarter is one of the most unique areas in Segovia. As the Jews were expelled from Spain by the catholic monarchs, there are few traces left of the Jewish population.
On this space remains a couple of synagogues, palaces, museums and buildings which evoke its Jewish past, distributed amongst a set of streets rife with medieval mystery.
The streets around the cathedral do follow the same plan as to when this was a ghetto. A walk through the Jewish quarter will transport you to another time far from the conventional routes of Segovia.
Best Restaurants in Segovia
Segovia is known for the Cochinillo. A dish consisting of a roasted suckling pig with succulent meat, tender, and crispy skin, and a very thin layer of fat. The meat is so tender that it practically falls apart when cooked properly.
Although that is the most famous dish, the offer in Segovia is incredible due to the successful local tourism.
Some restaurants that we recommend to try in Segovia are:
- Restaurante Jose Maria. Probably one of the most famous and an outstanding culinary experience. If you want to try the best cochinillo in Segovia, this is the place. The great service together with a nice atmosphere makes this place a must-visit.
- Restaurante Bar El Sitio. Personally, this would be my top choice. The reason: this place has a great variety of tapas and value for money is top. Not to mention portions are very generous. Normally is also easier to find a place on this one.
- Asador Maribel. Another great option where to find the typical Segovian food: sucking pig, cured meats, black pudding made of blood and rice, and mushrooms. Here you can find a good variety of local red wine which goes well with meats.
- Restaurante Claustro De San Antonio El Real. For more vegetarian options and perhaps the most unique location, this is the place to go. Located inside a monastery converted to a hotel, they have a great variety of vegan tapas and all kinds of dishes.
Where to Stay in Segovia
If you have the opportunity to stay overnight in Segovia, then you should check Hotel Real Segovia.
Situated between the cathedral and the Roman aqueduct, this classic, continental-style hotel provides an elegant setting for your in the of .
Set in the historical heart of the city, the hotel is the ideal base for exploring the stunning monuments of Segovia, such as San Martín church, the cathedral, and the famous Roman aqueduct.
There is not a better way to finish a long day of sightseeing than relaxing in the bar with a drink.
You can also use the map below for more options where to stay in Segovia.
Resources
If you need more help to plan your day trip from Madrid to Toledo and Segovia, check the following websites:
- TourScanner. Here you can book your Toledo and Segovia tour from Madrid. If you don’t have much time, this is your best option.
- Rentalcar. If you are taking a day trip from Madrid to Toledo, you can rent a car here.
- Spain.com. If you would like to know more about Toledo, check the official website of Spain.
- Toledo Turismo The official website of Toledo where you can find all the information you need to plan your trip to Toledo. Here you can also download travel guides, check events and book online some attractions.
- Booking.com. The best option to find hotels for all budgets. If you are traveling in Spain you’ll want to see 9 amazing hotels where to stay in Spain
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Toledo and Segovia is the best day trip from Madrid you could do with no doubt.
Visiting these cities means experiencing the culture and learning the history of these medieval cities where three different cultures lived together for years, and that’s what we can enjoy now.
You won’t only enjoy unique scenarios, but also incredible gastronomy will be part of this amazing experience.
If you want to have more information about the different day trips from Madrid, you can check on this link.
Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below.
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