From Madrid, we super encourage you to do a day trip to Segovia and Toledo– two gems easily combined into a fantastic day trip by tour bus or rental car, or done separately.
We chose to do a day tour via Get Your Guide that provided round-trip transportation from the Madrid city center as well as a guided walking tour. From there, we found we had plenty of time to do our own thing exploring both cities.
They’re very different both from each other and from Madrid, so if you can squeeze in both we really recommend it! If you absolutely must choose 1, we preferred Segovia.
Note that you can also do these via public transit, but there are no direct trains connecting the two cities as of 2023.
- To get to Segovia from Madrid, it’s best to take the high-speed train from (AVE) from Madrid-Chamartín Station to Segovia-Guiomar Station. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Trains are frequent, but it’s a good idea to check the schedule and book tickets in advance.
- To get to Toledo from Madrid, trains depart frequently from Madrid-Atocha Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and you can choose between high-speed trains (AVE) and regular regional trains. High-speed trains are faster but may be slightly more expensive. Buses also depart regularly from Madrid Estación Sur (Méndez Álvaro) to Toledo and take approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Segovia is a historic city in central Spain known for its stunning Roman-era aqueduct, medieval Alcázar, and well-preserved old town. Its rich history, impressive architecture, and well-preserved medieval old town make it a perfect day trip.
Quick history
Segovia’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating to the Iron Age. The city was eventually conquered by the Romans in the 1st century BC, and they built the famous Segovia Aqueduct, which still stands as one of the most iconic Roman engineering feats in Spain.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Segovia was ruled by Visigothic kings. During this period, it was known as “Segovia de los Judíos” due to its significant Jewish population.
In the early 8th century AD, the Moors conquered Segovia and ruled the city for several centuries. In 1088, Segovia was recaptured by the Christian King Alfonso VI of Castile, marking the beginning of Christian rule in the city. During the Middle Ages, Segovia flourished as an important trading and cultural center, with the construction of the Segovia Cathedral and the Alcázar of Segovia.
Segovia had a thriving Jewish community during the Middle Ages. The Jewish Quarter, with its narrow streets and historic synagogues, remains a significant part of the city’s cultural heritage.
In the late 15th century, Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon were married in the Segovia Cathedral, uniting the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon and laying the foundation for modern Spain. Segovia experienced a period of prosperity during the Spanish Golden Age, but by the 17th century, the city’s importance began to wane.
In the 18th century, the city’s aqueduct was restored, preserving it as an architectural marvel. In the 20th century, Segovia became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.
What to do in Segovia
Here are some of the best things to do and see in Segovia:
- Segovia Aqueduct (Acueducto de Segovia): Marvel at the iconic Roman aqueduct, one of the best-preserved examples of Roman engineering in the world. It dates back to the 1st century AD and stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
- Alcázar of Segovia: Explore the Alcázar, a fairy-tale-like castle perched on a hill overlooking the city. Visit its impressive interior, including the Throne Room and the Hall of Monarchs, and enjoy panoramic views from the towers.
- Segovia Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Segovia): Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Segovia Cathedral, known for its intricate façade and beautiful interior. Don’t forget to climb the tower for panoramic views.
- Jewish Quarter (Judería): Wander through the charming streets of Segovia’s Jewish Quarter, where you can see well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Casa de Abraham Seneor.
- Plaza Mayor: Relax and people-watch in the main square of Segovia, surrounded by historic buildings and restaurants. It’s a great place to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
- San Andrés Gate (Puerta de San Andrés): Visit this medieval gate, part of the ancient city walls. It’s a picturesque spot for photos and provides insight into Segovia’s historical defenses.
- Monastery of Saint Mary of Parral (Monasterio de Santa María del Parral): Explore this serene monastery founded in the 15th century. Its beautiful cloister and tranquil gardens make for a peaceful visit.
- The Alcázar Gardens (Jardines del Alcázar): Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens surrounding the Alcázar. The manicured lawns, fountains, and scenic views enhance the castle’s charm.
- Segovia’s Romanesque Churches: Discover the Romanesque architecture of several historic churches in Segovia, including the Church of San Millán and the Church of San Martín.
- Casa de los Picos (House of the Peaks): Admire the façade of this unique building covered in granite blocks carved with pyramid shapes. It’s one of the most distinctive structures in Segovia.
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Day Trip to Toledo
Toledo, known as the “City of Three Cultures” for its historical coexistence of Christians, Muslims, and Jews, is a captivating city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Its compact size makes it a perfect day trip. When you arrive at the bus depot in the city, a series of escalators take you to the centrally-located Plaza de Zocodover. From there, it’s easy to explore the city via its myriad winding streets and quaint little corners.
Quick history of Toledo
Toledo’s history dates back to pre-Roman times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating to the Bronze Age. The city was known as “Toletum” in Roman times and became an important Roman administrative and military center.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Toledo became the capital of the Visigothic Kingdom in the 6th century AD. During this period, Toledo played a significant role in the development of Visigothic art and culture.
In the early 8th century, Toledo was conquered by Muslim Moors and became a prominent city in the Emirate of Cordoba. The city’s multicultural character led to the coexistence of Muslims, Jews, and Christians, fostering a rich cultural exchange. Toledo was reconquered by King Alfonso VI of Castile in 1085, marking the beginning of Christian rule. Under Christian rule, Toledo thrived as a center of learning, art, and culture, with scholars translating and preserving classical Greek and Roman texts.
During the Middle Ages, Toledo was known for its production of high-quality swords and blades, which were sought after throughout Europe. The city experienced a period of great prosperity during the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th century. It was home to notable figures like the artist El Greco. Toledo has played a crucial role in Spain’s religious history. It is known for its historic synagogues, churches, and the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Spain.
Throughout its history, Toledo has been a melting pot of cultures, with Muslims, Jews, and Christians living side by side and contributing to its unique cultural identity. Today, Toledo’s historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.
What to do in Toledo
Here are some of the best things to do and see in Toledo on a day trip:
- Toledo Cathedral (Catedral Primada de Toledo): Explore this magnificent Gothic cathedral, one of Spain’s most important religious monuments. Admire its impressive interior, chapels, and stunning artwork.
- Alcázar of Toledo: Visit the Alcázar, a historic fortress that has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a royal palace and a military academy. Explore its museum, offering insights into Spanish military history.
- Synagogue of Santa María La Blanca: Discover one of the oldest synagogues in Europe, which now serves as a museum. Admire its unique architecture and learn about the Jewish history of Toledo.
- Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes: Explore this impressive Franciscan monastery known for its beautiful cloister and serene courtyard. It was built by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile.
- Toledo’s Historic Jewish Quarter (Judería): Stroll through the charming streets of the Jewish Quarter, where you’ll find narrow alleys, historic buildings, and the Synagogue of El Tránsito.
- Puente de San Martín (San Martin Bridge): Cross this medieval bridge, which offers picturesque views of Toledo and the Tagus River. The bridge itself is an architectural marvel.
- Museum of El Greco (Museo del Greco): Explore the former home of the famous Greek-Spanish painter El Greco. The museum houses a significant collection of his artworks.
- Church of Santo Tomé: Visit this historic church, which houses El Greco’s famous painting “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.”
- Toledo City Walls: Walk along the well-preserved medieval city walls, which offer great views of Toledo and its surroundings.
- Cristo de la Luz Mosque: Visit this small, picturesque mosque dating back to the 10th century. It’s one of the few surviving mosques from Toledo’s Moorish era.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to 2 day trips from Madrid.
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