day trip to toledo from madrid

Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid: What to Do, Transport & More

A day trip to Toledo from Madrid is one of the best things you can do while visiting the Spanish capital. Perched on a hill, the city of Toledo boasts an undeniable beauty and interesting history that has made it a popular destination for Madrid visitors.

Toledo is known as the “City of Three Cultures” for how Jews, Christians, and Muslims lived harmoniously. The evidence can be found in the streets lined with synagogues, churches, and mosques in close proximity.

But, Toledo is more than just a melting pot of cultures and religions. In addition to the religious landmarks, the city is full of fun activities for all travelers. Here’s how to spend a day in Toledo and how to get there.

How Far is Toledo from Madrid?

Toledo is approximately 74 km (46 miles) away from Madrid. This translates to around an hour-long drive from the capital. This proximity has helped in making the City of Three Cultures one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Madrid .

How to Get to Toledo from Madrid

If you’re set on taking a day trip to Toledo from Madrid, you’ve got several options for getting there.

Getting to Toledo by Train

Getting to Toledo by train is possibly the most convenient way (and fastest) to travel. High-speed AVE trains depart all day from Atocha Station and will take around half an hour to get to Toledo.

You can purchase a ticket online or at the train station , with tickets costing as low as €10 ($10.24).

Getting to Toledo by Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest way to begin your day trip from Madrid to Toledo. A single ticket costs around €5 ($5.12), and buses depart from Plaza Eliptica during the day. However, the bus will take around one hour and a half to reach Toledo.

The bus has an advantage over the train, though, per its arrival destination. Buses arrive much closer to central Toledo than trains, saving you minutes of walking or hailing a cab.

Getting to Toledo by Car

If you’ve chosen to rent a car or drive your own vehicle for the journey, that’s also an available option. In Toledo, you’ll find many parking spaces to station your car while you explore the town. With a vehicle, you also have the most flexibility and freedom to see attractions outside the city.

The journey will take approximately one hour along the A-42, with fuel costs being the only thing you’ll have to worry about paying for.

Getting to Toledo by Tour

As a first-time Toledo visitor, it’s only natural that you may want to have a tour guide accompany you from attraction to attraction. Therefore, we recommend joining in on a tour to Toledo from Madrid as a transport alternative. These always include transportation in addition to the guide, and you’ll be hopping from one attraction to another.

We recommend joining in on this Madrid day tour to Toledo or a private tour between Madrid and Toledo .

Getting Around in Toledo

Toledo is a relatively small city, with its points of interest situated close to each other in northern Toledo. Therefore, it’s walkable, but some parts may be harder to navigate than others.

If you aren’t okay with walking, you can drive your way around the city or use public transportation. A Toledo tourist trolley will take visitors from one attraction to the other. There’s also a hop-on hop-off bus doing the same. The bus pass lasts for 24 hours, and we recommend getting it for a convenient transport option.

What to Do in Toledo

As soon as you land in Toledo, you’ll have a maze of streets and landmarks to navigate. And without a guide or tips for traveling in Toledo, you can easily get lost — but locals are always ready to help in any case.

So, here’s a list of what to do to see Toledo in a day .

Visit the Cathedral of Toledo

The Cathedral of Toledo is one of the best cathedrals in Spain. It was initially Toledo’s central mosque before becoming a church, which was destroyed in 1220.

Today, it is a landmark that boasts a mixture of architectural styles inside and outside. It’s often considered by many to be one of the greatest Gothic-style buildings in Spain.

While posing for pictures with the cathedral in the background is a must-do, the true beauty lies inside. The cathedral’s walls are draped in art made by artists like Francesco Goya, El Greco, and more.

Climb the flight of stairs to get rewarded with even more beauty. Once you reach the bell tower, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of the Toledo landscape.

This all comes at a price, though, with admission tickets costing €8 ($8.19). You can also book a skip-the-line tour for guided visits.

Alcázar of Toledo

The Alcázar of Toledo was originally built in the 3rd century as a Roman palace and served as a royal residence. It’s a stone fortification located in the city’s highest part and thus overlooks Toledo’s streets and can be seen from many places.

The Alcázar has seen a lot during its time, including a civil war in 1936 that saw commander Moscardo refuse to relinquish it in exchange for his son’s life.

Today, it’s open to the public, as it houses the Army Museum and its many war memorabilia. Visit here to view military artifacts, including a sword collection of the finest blades. There are also displays of the ruined state of the castle and recreation of Moscardo’s office covered in bullet holes.

Above that, it houses a library at the top, which is worth visiting for more than just books. Make your way here, and you’ll be rewarded with a vista offering a bird’s eye view of the city.

Admission isn’t free here either, with entry costing €5 ($5.12) per person.

Synagogue of El Transito

In addition to Christian buildings, there are former Jewish and Muslim structures waiting to be explored in Toledo. The Synagogue of El Transito is one such landmark, although it’s no longer used for the original purpose it was built for in 1356.

Today, it houses the Museo Sefardí, which contains a history of the Jewish people in Spain. Walk through the restored main prayer hall, and you’ll find elements of Mudéjar and stucco decorations draped on the walls.

Inside the building, you’ll find archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, ceremonial objects, and a memorial garden to pay your respects.

Admission to the synagogue costs €3 ($3.07) per person.

Santa Cruz Museum

Museo de Santa Cruz is another interesting building to visit in Toledo, although it doesn’t have much religious significance. The museum is the perfect stop for lovers of all sorts of art. Here, you’ll find a wide range of beautiful art pieces and ceramics.

It was originally a hospital built in the 16th century before being converted into a museum and art gallery. On display are artworks by El Greco and other Spanish artists.

Upon entry, you’ll be amazed by the cross-shaped layout of the museum. Walk around and you’ll see art that is accompanied by explanatory boards. This helps put some much-needed context to the art.

Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

While one of the smallest mosques in Spain , its historical significance more than makes up for its size. The Mosque of Cristo de la Luz was later converted into a church, which it still is today. It dates back to Spain’s Moorish period and has retained the same charm it had when it was still in use for its original purpose.

While short on attractions, you’re bound to still enjoy a visit here, especially if you’re a fan of architecture. An intricate bare-brick exterior welcomes you before you encounter white horseshoe arches, Kufic inscriptions on the wall, and some original paintings.

Look up, and you’ll see a white geometric ceiling basking in the light. Head outside, and you’ll find gardens offering scenic views of Toledo and a Roman road featuring Roman relics.

Admission here costs €3 ($3.07) per person.

Castle of San Servando

Originally built as a monastery, this castle was eventually used as a fortress by the Knights Templar. It enjoys an elevated position and is a marvel to look at. The castle is likely the first landmark you’ll see upon landing here since it’s close to the Toledo train station.

Unfortunately, it’s a private property today, and you can’t enter inside. But you can take a ton of pictures from outside. You can also enjoy town views as it’s perched on top of a hill that overlooks the Tagus River.

Puente de San Martin and Puente de Alcántara

To enjoy more scenic views of the Tagus River, head to these two footbridges. Puente de San Martin and Puente de Alcántara have been around for centuries and have undergone restorative efforts several times.

Puente de San Martin is a medieval bridge that has the Tagus River passing under its arches and is surrounded by greenery. Puente de Alcantara is a Roman arch bridge just by the Castle of San Servando, with views of Toledo architectural buildings in the background.

Head to either one and take a picture of the idyllic scenery.

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

This Franciscan monastery was built in the 15th century and sits in Toledo’s Jewish quarter. Monarchs built the building to celebrate their victory in the Battle of Toro and commemorate the birth of their son. The monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, had also intended this to be their last resting place but changed course and chose Granada for that purpose.

While it features awe-inspiring architecture throughout, the monastery is most famous for its two-level cloister. Here, you’ll see vaulted ceilings, arches, small statues on the walls, and more. There’s also a garden featuring verdant flora surrounded by the cloister.

Entry into the monastery costs €3 ($3.07) per person.

Mirador del Valle

While Toledo has viewpoints by the dozens, there aren’t many that compare to Mirador del Valle. This spot is consistently called the best viewpoint in Toledo — and we’re inclined to agree.

You’ll find Mirador del Valle located across the Tejo River, offering a scenic view of the whole city. Gaze in awe as the river mirrors its surrounding greenery and views of Toledo from east to west all at once.

This vista is best visited in the morning during sunrise or later in the day during sunset. However, it’s still a good option at any time during the day. If you’re an art buff, you’ll quickly realize the similarities between your view and El Greco’s “ Vista of Toledo ” painting. How cool, right?

You can reach this spot by bus or by driving up here for around 10 minutes, but you can also walk up for 30 minutes from the Toledo train station.

Plaza de Zocodover

Plaza de Zocodover may not rival the many Madrid plazas , but it’s still worth visiting as it has its own allure. It has been through a lot in its history, having been a place where markets thrived, bullfighting took place, and public executions were carried out.

Today, it’s the social center of Toledo and has a bustling atmosphere of restaurants, cafes, and a buzzing social life. It also plays host to a weekly market that’s held every Tuesday.

This plaza is the best place to stop and fill up with some good Spanish food , although there are also eateries selling international delicacies.

Head to La Otra Boveda for Spanish dishes, La Casa de Damasco for vegetarian goodies, and Comes Pizzería for Italian delights. Il Cappuccino is available for hot beverages, while La Tabernita is a great spot to wet your whistle.

Additional Tips for a Toledo Day Trip from Madrid

Here are a few more tips to ensure you have a pleasant experience on your day trips to Toledo:

• Wear appropriate shoes that can handle some of Toledo’s hilly terrains.
• While it may be tempting to buy your train or bus tickets in person, we recommend getting them online to avoid potentially long lines.
• Most attractions open at 10 am, so be sure to head to Toledo a little later than usual. Also, be sure to check the operating hours so you don’t get disappointed.

Final Thoughts on a Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

There it is, a comprehensive guide on how to enjoy the Madrid-Toledo day trip. With this guide, you should know how to get here and some of the best things to do in Toledo, Spain.

You can explore this small Spanish city on a day trip or choose to spend a night seeing everything it has to offer. And there’s quite a lot, from architectural wonders and artwork to panoramic vistas and historically significant buildings.

So, begin your preparations right now and see for yourself the charm of Toledo—consider booking a Toledo Airbnb if you’ll sleep in the small city.

Tags: Madrid Toledo

Day Trip From Madrid to Valencia | How Far Is It + Travel Tips

Madrid in November: Weather & Things to Do

Madrid in June: Weather & Things to Do

Madrid in May: Weather & Things to Do

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• 8 Luxury Hotels in Gran Canaria | Boutiques, 5-star, & Resorts
• Málaga To Ronda Day Trip | Is It Better By Train, Plane, or Car?

Traveling in Spain aims to help tourists and locals find the best adventures, and tours in Spain. We collect live prices from trusted tour and ticketing operators. We’ll sometimes link out to our affiliate partners, such as Amazon LLC, and make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Privacy Overview

Shopping cart

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Opinionated Travelogue of a Photo Maniac

• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Pacific Islands
• FOOD & WINE
• TRAVEL GUIDES
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• Rants & Raves
• Travel Blogger Interviews
• Contact Form
• Privacy Policy
• Featured Elsewhere

How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

Last Modified: March 10, 2023 //  by  Anda //   39 Comments

Toledo is a gorgeous place to see. With its majestic castle perched on a rocky bluff, Gothic cathedrals and winding cobblestone streets, the town looks magical, like out of a fairy tale. Due to its proximity to Madrid, Toledo is a very popular day trip for those who visit the Spanish capital.

Toledo seemed like a living museum to me, packed with history, art, and great medieval architecture. Its majestic castle was reminiscent of the castles and fortresses I visited in Romania . We only spent one day in Toledo when road tripping in Spain , but I wish we had more time in this dazzling walled city.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Toledo

How to get to toledo from madrid, there is a lot of uphill walking in toledo, 1. el alcázar, 2. la catedral primada (toledo’s cathedral), 3. the monastery of san juan de los reyes, 4. museo de santa cruz, 5. puerta de bisagra (the gate of bisagra), shopping in toledo, more than one day in toledo, tips for visiting toledo in one day.

Toledo had a tumultuous and fascinating history. It survived the Moors, the Visigoths, and the Spanish Civil Wa. It was Spain’s religious and political center and the main site of the court of Charles V. 

During medieval times, the city was a melting pot of cultures. For centuries Christians, Arabs and Jews co-existed peacefully within its walls, which is why Toledo was also known as the “ City of  Three Cultures. ” One of Toledo’s biggest draws is the combination of architectural styles that derived from the mingling of these three cultures: Islamic, Jewish and Christian.

Toledo makes a great day trip from Madrid. That is of course if you have more than just  one day in Madrid.  And thanks to the high-speed train, you can travel from Madrid to Toledo in just half an hour. There are however several ways to get to Toledo from Madrid. 

The cheapest way is by bus ($4 to $10/ticket). You need to buy your ticket before you get on the bus. The ride takes about one hour. The bus leaves from an underground hub in Plaza Eliptica in Madrid. There is also a bus service that will pick you up from your hotel and take you straight to Toledo, but that’s a shared bus and it takes longer (1.5 hours on average).

Organized Trips from Madrid to Toledo

Another possibility is to choose an organized day trip to Toledo and you can find some recommendations on any Spain travel guide . There are several companies that offer all-inclusive guided tours from Madrid to Toledo.

The fastest way to take a day trip to Toledo is by high-speed train, which takes around 30 minutes. The train ride is not only shorter but also more comfortable, as you can stand or go to the bathroom. Trains depart daily from the Atocha station in Madrid.

The cost of the ticket is $14 each way. If you are not traveling during the high season, you do not need to make any reservations. You just show up and buy your ticket at the station. However, during the summer these trains get very crowded because they are also commuter trains, so it’s a good idea to buy your tickets online ahead of time.

Things to Know when Planning Your Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo is probably the most popular day trip from Madrid and as a result it gets crowded in the middle of the day. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to arrive here before 10 a.m.

Whether you arrive in Toledo by train or by bus you’ll have a steep walk up to the city walls and the historic center. If you are in a good physical shape and want to take some picture, you can walk. The shortest path to enter the old city from the railway station is across the Alcantara Bridge. On this road you’ll also get some beautiful views of the Tagus river.

But if you want to save your energy and you don’t feel like walking, you have two options. One option is to take a cab all the way to the Alcazar, which is the highest point, then start walking down.

Or you can take a bus. Busses stop to the right of the train station, on the main street. Busses 5, 5D, 51, 61, and 62 will take one to the Plaza de Zocodover, which is downtown Toledo (up the hill). 

Another option to minimize the uphill walking is to buy a ticket for the Toledo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus   ($20 for one day). Before entering the old town the tour bus goes first on the other side of the river and stops at some great viewpoints. Since your trip to Toledo is not very long, you probably won’t have much time to go there on foot, so make sure you don’t miss these great lookout points. The panoramic views of the city from across the river are stunning!

Toledo has 3 major neighborhoods: –the Jewish Quarter, the Christian/Roman Quarter and the Muslim Quarter– all of which are interesting to visit. 

The medieval old town is a labyrinth of winding pedestrian streets and alleyways. Finding your way gets sometimes pretty confusing, so it’s a good idea to buy a map before you start your walk. Certainly, you can book a guided tour of Toledo if you choose to, but we preferred to explore the city on our own.

READ NEXT : Cheapest (Yet Beautiful) Countries to Visit in Europe

Things to Do on a Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

Trying to fit all the attractions of Toledo in one single day is nearly impossible. There are over 30 museums and art galleries, more than a dozen churches and temples, and countless monuments. However, with some good planning you can easily see the main sights of Toledo. So here is what you shouldn’t miss:

A good place to start your day in Toledo is in the main square, where the tour bus will drop you. This is the highest part of town where you’ll also find the palace-fortress of El   Alcázar.  The original building was an Arab fortress from the early 8th century. Later on the Spanish kings expended the fortress and eventually converted it into a royal residence.

El   Alcázar is today the site of the Army Museum. The museum has a huge collection of army-related artifacts, from knights on horseback to modern aviation, toy soldiers and all things military. We decided to get in, but soon realized that was a mistake. The museum is outstanding, but way too big to be experienced properly if you only have one day in Toledo.  

If you want to spend time visiting the Army Museum is fine. However, don’t expect to see a beautiful castle interior. Alcázar doesn’t look anything like a palace inside and there are hardly any views from its windows. So if you are only interested in visiting the building, the best experience is the exterior view. 

The Cathedral of Toledo ( La Cathedral Primada  in Spanish) dominates the city both architecturally and artistically. It is the second largest cathedral in Spain, after the Cathedral of Seville .

Erected on the site of a former mosque, the Cathedral took 267 years to build. That seems like a great deal of time for a construction! But when you look at this marvelous building you’ll understand why its completion took so long. The Cathedral is absolutely stunning, with elaborately carved portals, a soaring 300 feet tower, and five naves stretching over 120 meters in length.

The interior is also jaw-dropping. There are so many artistic and religious artifacts! I was blown away by the sparkling gold reliefs, wood sculptures, decorated columns, and stained-glass windows. Don’t miss the religious paintings of the great Spanish artist El Greco when visiting the cathedral!  

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide for Visiting the Cathedral of Malaga

This church was originally planned by Ferdinand and Isabella as their last resting place. They changed their plans later and chose to be buried in Granada.

The most remarkable part of the church is its double cloister, which is decorated with carved stone arches and pillars.

Hidden behind Plaza de Zocodover is Toledo’s most interesting museum and art gallery: Museo de Santa Cruz  . The original building was a hospital during the 16th century and was built in the shape of a Greek cross . Besides containing a great art collection and many paintings by El Greco, the building’s beautiful architecture is a draw in itself.

This place is worth visiting even if you are not a big fan of museums. It is also a good choice if you want to skip visiting El Greco Museum, yet see some of the artist’s famous paintings. 

Puerta Vieja de Bisagra  is only remaining part of the Moorish town walls. It’s easy to imagine the strength of Toledo’s ancient walls was when you stand before the monumental Gate of Bisagra!

To get a good look at it from the distance, you’ll have to basically leave the historic old town and cross the highway. Then you’ll have to return and pass through it again. Puerta de Bisagra is the kind of landmark that you’ll only enjoy for a brief couple of minutes, while you pass through it. Nevertheless it’s worth seeing.

READ NEXT : Best Things to Do in Cordoba, Spain

Toledo is known for its traditional crafts, including antique-inspired swords. It’s hard to resist the temptation to acquire one of these marvelously crafted swords that are on display. We bought three and had a lot of hassle bringing them back home, in California.

But if you are into swords, knives and amours, you should at least walk into some of these shops to admire the big variety. Some stores also explain and demonstrate how the swords are forged, using the damascene technique. It’s quite an experience. 

There are many other interesting sites to see in Toledo, like the  El Greco Museum , the S ynagogue of Santa María la Blanca , or the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz . Unfortunately, you can only do so much on day trip to Toledo from Madrid. In the end, how you decide to spend your available time in the city depends a lot on your travel style and interests. 

READ NEXT: Best Things to do in Taormina

• Try to arrive very as early as you can (before 9am if possible), and leave late. Toledo is a very popular destination, so many tourists will follow the same itinerary as you.
• Before you plan your day trip to Toledo, bear in mind that some attractions are closed on Mondays.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The streets in Toledo are quite steep and walking can be physically demanding.
• If you choose to book an organized day trip to Toledo from Madrid, be advised that you will not be allowed to stop in and shop as you please. You can only visit the stores that the tour company has an “agreement” with. And those are  usually  the most expensive ones. 
• It is possible to enjoy the city without spending a lot of money. You don’t need to visit every museum, or get into every church. Simply walking the streets and admiring the landmarks can be a lot of fun.

If you have never visited Toledo, make sure to include it into your next European itinerary . There is so much history in this city, so many great sites to see, and good food to taste! 

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

• How to See the Best of Malaga in One Day
• 11 Reasons to Visit Romania Now and Why You Shouldn’t Postpone It
• The 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Romania
• 5 Incredibly Exiting Things to Do in El Chalten, Argentina
• Discover the Beauty of Bucovina, Romania’s Most Remote Region

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

September 4, 2020 at 2:37 pm

Am eagerly awaiting the all clear for covid so I can walk the last stage of el camino de Frances then use Madrid as a base for a fortnight. Toledo is definitely the first sway city on my list. Thank you for your informative post.

September 6, 2020 at 2:42 pm

We are all waiting for this pandemic to be over. Hope traveling will not loose its appeal because of what we’ve been through…

February 21, 2020 at 10:34 pm

How is Toledo for kids? We’ll be visiting with a 10 year old and 7 year old. I’ve heard the streets can be steep as you mentioned, do you think it would be too much?

February 22, 2020 at 12:24 am

I don’t think the streets are too steep for a 10 and a 7 years old. Besides, if they get tired there are lots of places to stop. Also, there are many of souvenir shops with fake swords, armors and other toys that kids enjoy. Our son had a lot of fun in Toledo and he was only 12 at the time.

Karen Pelton

September 18, 2019 at 9:28 pm

This is our first stop on our first trip to Spain! Traveling with 4 young grandkids, three girls, 9, 7, 5, and 2 year old boy. Any suggestions on what would hold their attention? We’ll be there on a Monday all day and Tues morning.

Anda Galffy

September 18, 2019 at 10:01 pm

I envy you, Karen. We have 3 grandkids too, but our daughter in law would never let them go with us to Europe. At any rate, I think the kids will have a lot of fun in Toledo. There are lots of souvenir shops around, selling toy swords, princess dolls and other fun things. If you want to capture their interest for what they see, arm yourself with some stories about each place you visit. Toledo Cathedral has lots of stained glass windows with stories from the Bible. They may love seeing the glass cabinets filled with relics, or the jewels lining the walls of the treasury. The Army Museum may also be a fun place for them. Not sure about the 2 year old though. He is too young and will probably get tired quickly.

February 26, 2019 at 1:40 am

What a beautiful city to explore. I can see why it was the highlight of your time in Spain. Great tips about getting in early and leaving late, to maximise time in town and not in traffic.

Anneklien Meanne

February 26, 2019 at 1:38 am

I visited Toledo for a day drip when I was in Madrid. It was a beautiful place with rich history and stunningly architecture is definitely worth the visit.

Punita Malhotra

February 25, 2019 at 10:46 pm

Toledo is a perfect example of a town where you can soak in the essence in a capsule…and also spend a couple of days knowing more. And so conveniently located, close to Madrid. I loved the Jewish Synagogue and El Greco’s masterpieces.

February 25, 2019 at 3:50 pm

Pity I missed Toledo when I was in Madrid. I didn’t know that it’s so close and only takes 30 minutes by train! I’m a bit like you guys too, I prefer to walk around on my own as opposed to going on tours. I love getting lost in old cities. Toledo sounds a bit like Granada, which also has Jewish, Christian/Roman and Muslim Quarters. I adore the ornate architecture of San Juan de los Reyes, and Museo de Santa Cru sounds like a must-see especially for El Greco’s paintings.

Dorene Wharton

February 25, 2019 at 2:20 pm

Toledo is known for its swords? – well that sounds like a medieval gem to visit. It looks absolutely magnificent and this couldn’t come at a better time, considering I am planning a trip to Spain soon. The architecture is magnificent its no wonder it took 267 years to build! Is it worth spending a week there to relax and enjoy the sites? Great tips.

February 25, 2019 at 11:39 am

I am still guted that I missed Toledo and drove straight pass it, now I wish I didnt now I seen your photos and read this post. Hopefully heading back to central Spain in the summer so its defo time to check it out!

Christopher Rudder

February 24, 2019 at 8:06 am

La Catedral Primada took 267 years to build? How is that even possible? It’s as gorgeous as the La Sagrada Familia. That monastery looks like a piece of Vatican for me. Toledo I think is a great place for Roman Catholics and lovers of heritage. I will definitely add this on my list when I have a chance to go to Spain.

Mei and Kerstin

February 24, 2019 at 5:42 am

Toledo is one of our favorite small cities in Europe. We first visited 14 years ago on a day trip from Madrid, and finally returned again two years ago. It was such a blast and we ended up staying for 3 days. This beautiful town can certainly by explored during a day trip from Madrid, but we seriously think that any visitor should spend at least an overnight in Toledo, because once the daily tourists are gone it becomes quieter and it’s truly magical to stroll through the city in the evening and nighttime! This being said, your post covers most of the awesome things to do and see in Toledo, and we think that it’s very useful for those who don’t have more time. 🙂

February 24, 2019 at 5:05 pm

I’m hoping to return to Toledo myself too, Mei. I miss it already.

February 24, 2019 at 3:31 am

Good to know that you can do Tolefo in a day. I definitely would love to see Alcazar. It has always fascinated me… Good tips on how to get there from Madrid.

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net)

August 21, 2018 at 8:06 pm

Anda, you’ve reignited my desire to see Toledo! It was actually one of the first foreign cities I learned about as a boy, mostly because the phrase “Holy Toledo” was popular. I was sure that the city was named for that; you can imagine how my young mind was blown when I learned it was a very old city! As I learned more about it, I wanted to go explore – and still do! 🙂

August 22, 2018 at 11:51 am

Hahaha, I didn’t know about that phrase, Rob. Toledo is very beautiful, you should go visit it.

August 20, 2018 at 9:14 am

It looks like an amazing city, and as usual, your photos are stunning! I haven’t been to Spain (yet), but when I eventually make it there, Toledo is going to be on my list.

August 19, 2018 at 7:30 am

I´ve enjoyed reading your post and seeing pictures so much! I´ve also been to Toledo once, as a day trip from Madrid. It´s such a gorgeous city and I really liked The Cathedral ´s architecture and interiors. I´m planning to go back soon, it´s been almost 6 years since my last visit to this medieval capital!

August 19, 2018 at 3:21 am

We just spent 3 days in Madrid and toyed with the idea of going to Toledo but ultimately decided not to. I’m now going to spend this whole weekend kicking myself! It looks incredible and you’ve got so many great suggestions of ways to spend the day. Oh well, guess it just means I have to go back!?

August 19, 2018 at 12:18 pm

If you only had 3 days in Madrid, there wasn’t enough time to go to Toledo, so don’t be sorry. Madrid is such a great city to visit too.

Lenrie Jane

March 14, 2020 at 10:06 am

Did you use Hop-on-Hop-off bus to get to those places in Toledo?

March 15, 2020 at 4:55 pm

No, the tour bus will drop you at the edge of the town. Toledo is too small for a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Jessica Norah

August 18, 2018 at 8:11 am

I’ve not been to Madrid or Toledo and this all looks lovely – the architecture in particular is very beautiful 😉 I’d probably need at least 1 day or more to explore here.

August 18, 2018 at 10:34 pm

I agree, Jessica. We were sorry we couldn’t spend more time in Toledo.

Jill Chapman

August 18, 2018 at 4:20 am

My Spanish teacher in high school was from Spain and I remember her teaching us about Toledo. Then my husband went there on a business trip and I was so envious. Stunning city and stunning photos! I sure hope I can explore Toledo – and Spain – someday!

California Globetrotter

August 17, 2018 at 7:13 pm

Toledo has been on my list for a long time, so I’m quite glad to hear your praise for this city! Makes me want to go only that much more!!

August 18, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Spain is not so far from you, Lolo. You should go.

Cynthia | Adventuring Woman

August 17, 2018 at 5:15 pm

What beautiful pictures, so many wonderful things to see! I have fallen in love with it already! It sounds like Toledo might be worth more than a day trip. If you had to do it over again, would you stay overnight or even longer?

I definitely would. I was sorry for not planning more time there.

August 17, 2018 at 2:30 pm

Wow, I’d never heard of Toledo before (outside of the US version), and I’m so glad that I clicked on your post, because far out, it seems amazing. All of those medieval buildings! And your panoramic shots are gorgeous… I’m pretty sure I’d be in heaven here.

August 17, 2018 at 4:03 pm

Hope you’ll get to visit the historic Toledo someday. What you’ll discover has no resemblance with its US counterpart.

Rhonda Albom

August 17, 2018 at 2:08 pm

Toledo is an amazing city. There is so much to see and I couldn’t fit it all in with an overnight stay. I enjoyed the Old Jewish Quarter and particularly liked all the El Greco museum as well as seeing his most famous painting in the Church of Santo Tome. I like the idea of taking the high-speed train from Madrid. Your highlights to see on a day trip to Toledo are spot on.

August 17, 2018 at 4:04 pm

Thanks, Rhonda. You were lucky if you could spend a night in Toledo. We only had time for a day trip to Toledo.

August 17, 2018 at 1:31 pm

I have not made it to Toledo yet, but it looks like a great day trip. The architecture there is stunning, especially the Cathedral. It does look like a great city to walk around and explore.

August 17, 2018 at 4:05 pm

It is a great place to visit, Anisa. You should go.

August 17, 2018 at 12:44 pm

Oooh, I love this post! I studied in Salamanca and simply love this region of Spain. Toledo is such a rich city!

It is, isn’t it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

All rights reserved © Travel Notes & Beyond. The material on this website is protected by copyright law. Republishing the content on this blog (including text, photography, etc.) is strictly prohibited.

AFFILIATE PROGRAM DISCLOSURE

Some of the pages and posts of this blog contain links to products and services that may be useful for my readers. When clicking on these links you will have the option to purchase or register for a service at no extra cost to you, but doing so can help me offset the costs associated with running this blog. Thank you for your support!

The Perfect Toledo Day Trip from Madrid

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Embarking on a Toledo day trip from Madrid is one of the top things to do for visitors to the Spanish capital. This historic city is often referred to as the “city of three cultures” and is packed with beautiful views and lots of interesting things to see and do.

As one of the most popular day trips from Madrid, Toledo also used to be the capital of Spain and holds a lot of importance in Spanish history.

Situated in the arid Castilla-La Mancha region just south of the Spanish capital, Toledo is also incredibly easy to reach from Madrid and has enough to occupy visitors for an entire day – or even more if you’re interested.

So if you’re after an easy and historic day trip to a beautiful city nearby to Madrid, look no further than Toledo. A day trip to Toledo is the perfect choice if you have a few days to spend in and around Madrid .

Table of Contents

Getting to Toledo from Madrid

Madrid is located about 75 kilometres north of Toledo and, because of this proximity, it is really easy to reach the city by a number of different methods.

Depending on how you want to structure your Toledo day trip itinerary, you can reach this lovely town via organised tour, bus, car or high-speed train.

By Organised Tour

If you want to take all of the planning and guesswork out of your day trip to Toledo from Madrid, then consider going via organised tour.

There are countless options to choose from (Toledo is possibly the most popular destination to visit from the Spanish capital) depending on your wants and needs.

For instance, this full-day tour from Madrid includes a return trip via bus and a guided tour throughout the city. This similar tour is also available.

Alternatively, this guided day tour from Madrid included entry and tours in the Cathedral, Church of Santo Tomé and the Synagogue of St Mary. This similar tour is also available.

If you are short on time and want to visit some other popular day trip destinations, then this full-day tour includes a visit to Segovia (and an optional add-on in Ávila ). Keep in mind that, if you choose this option, you won’t be able to enjoy any place to its full potential.

Another great option is this day tour which includes transport to and from Madrid, a guided tour of Toledo and a stop at a local winery (with wine and tapas tastings!) in the lovely Castilla-La Mancha region.

Finally, you can also book a private tour if you prefer not to visit in an organised group.

If you want to travel independently to Toledo, one of the best options to do this is by train. Toledo is easily connected by train from Madrid via high-speed rail which means that you can reach the city in under 30 minutes.

Trains depart from Madrid’s Atocha station very regularly, so you can get as early or late of a start as you desire. There are similarly frequent trains on the return trip.

The train station in Toledo is located about a fifteen-minute walk from the main bridge into the city, so there is also no need to hop on a bus or grab a cab to get to the old town centre.

Though there are frequent trains, it is a very popular route so it is recommended that you book your tickets online here in advance by at least a couple of days.

If you’re looking for a slightly more affordable option to reach Toledo, then the bus is a great option. There are several buses that run between Madrid and Toledo daily and the journey time is about one hour (compared to under half an hour via train).

The bus station in Toledo is also located about fifteen minutes walk to the city centre – though it is situated in a different location to the train station. You can book tickets for the bus online in advance here.

If you want ultimate flexibility on your trip from Madrid to Toledo, you can also opt to go by car. The drive from Madrid to Toledo will take about an hour and there are ample car parks in and around the city centre.

It isn’t entirely necessary to have a car while exploring Toledo itself, however, having your own means of transport can allow you to venture to some of the most beautiful viewpoints of the city that aren’t as easily accessible on foot such as Mirador del Valle Toledo.

If you need to rent a car for your trip to Toledo, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across different car hire companies.

Toledo Day Trip Itinerary

If you’ve decided to go independently, then this is the itinerary to follow! If you’re coming by car, add the Mirador del Valle Toledo as your first stop of the day.

Puente de Alcántara

The first stop on your day trip to Toledo (especially if you’re arriving by train, as this is your entry point into the city) is the Puente de Alcántara. This is the main bridge over the Tagus River and acts as a beautiful entry point into this historic city.

Across the river from the city centre, you will also be able to see the Castillo de San Servando – a medieval castle that overlooks the city. This castle is probably best known for featuring in El Greco’s painting View of Toledo .

The bridge provides excellent views of Toledo above and is the perfect vantage point into the city before you begin exploring.

Plaza de Zocodover

Once in the city centre, the most logical first stop on your Toledo itinerary is the Plaza de Zocodover. This is the main square in Toledo and is the central meeting place of the city. Here is where countless tours pick up, but it is also bustling and interesting to see and has a vibrant energy.

The Plaza de Zocodover is an excellent starting-off point and place to get your bearings before taking off and sightseeing.

If you’re interested in sightseeing with the help of a knowledgeable guide, then consider booking this guided walking tour that also includes a tourist bracelet (with entry into 7 historical sites) in the price.

Catedral Primada

The first main site to see on your Toledo day trip from Madrid is the Toledo Cathedral – known as the Catedral Primada. This beautiful church is a main focal point of the Toledo skyline and it is a major site to visit while in this historic Spanish city.

You can take in the splendours of this beautiful Gothic cathedral from outside free of charge, however, you will have to purchase a ticket if you wish to tour the interior. There are a few different ticketing options, however, an all-inclusive ticket lands at €12.50 per person.

For those who would like a bit more context when visiting the cathedral, then consider booking this cathedral tour with a local guide which will also allow you to skip the line to enter.

Termas Romanas

Another great place to stop when seeing Toledo in a day and a place that will certainly put into perspective just how old this city is are the Termas Romanas – or Roman Baths.

As the name may suggest, these date back to ancient Roman times and they can be fascinating to visit.

Don’t expect a huge archaeological site, however, the Termas Romanas are free to enter and there is information available in English if you want to learn more about this fascinating place.

Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz

Winding your way down the hill (of which there are many in Toledo), make your way to our next stop – the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz. This structure was, at one point, a mosque that was then turned into a Catholic chapel following the Reconquista.

The mosque was once one of ten in the city during the Moorish period. Today, it operates as a museum where you can learn about the history of this building in particular and of the contrasting cultures that Toledo has been home to.

Full-priced entry into the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz is €4 per person, however, entry is included if you purchase the Toledo tourist bracelet . This includes multiple entries to seven of the city’s most iconic sites – including this one and many of the best things to do in Toledo.

Alcázar de Toledo

While you’ve already seen quite a bit in just the morning of this Toledo itinerary, it’s time to visit the most iconic spot in the city’s skyline – the Alcázar de Toledo. This is the historic royal residence of Toledo and it presides over the city in a domineering fashion.

The Alcázar today is home to a military museum that is open to the public and houses exhibits about Spanish military history dating back centuries.

You can also opt to visit the public library, which is also a part of the Alcázar – which even has a free lift to a terrace with beautiful views over the city.

After quite a morning of sightseeing, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite an appetite. There are a lot of places to eat in Toledo, but some are better than others.

We highly recommend starting your lunch like the Spaniards do with an aperitivo – we suggest heading to La Malquerida de la Trinidad which has excellent vermouth on tap ( de grifo in Spanish). You will also get a snack with your drinks.

If you’re after a traditional Spanish tapas bar in Toledo, then look no further than Taberna Skala , which cooks up regional specialities in a very rustic setting. You will also get a complimentary tapa with a drink order here – as is customary in this area of central Spain.

Museo del Greco

After filling up at a leisurely lunch, it’s time to make your way to another side of the city and take in a bit of culture at the Museo del Greco or El Greco Museum.

This museum is dedicated to the celebrated Rennaissance-era painter El Greco, who spent much of his life in Toledo

Though El Greco literally translates to “the Greek” in Spanish, this Crete-born painter spent the majority of his life in Spain. At the museum, you can see a collection of his artwork and learn a bit more about the artist, as well.

Entry into the museum is €3 per person for a full-priced ticket.

Jewish Quarter

The Museo del Greco lies at the beginning of the Jewish quarter of Toledo and plan to spend the rest of your day in Toledo exploring the sites that lie within this area. Prior to 1492, Toledo was home to quite a large Jewish population and that is very much evidenced in the number of sites you can see here.

For instance, the Sinagoga de Tránsito is a historic synagogue that is now home to a museum dedicated to the history of Sephardic Jews.

Another point of interest in Jewish History is the Sinagoga de Santa Maria Blanca. This was once a synagogue but was turned into a Catholic church after 1492. Entry to this historic site is also included in the Toledo bracelet.

Finally, one of the top things to see in Toledo is the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes. Though this is a Christian monastery, there is a lot of history here and the building and setting is absolutely beautiful. Entry is also included in the Toledo bracelet .

Iglesia de los Jesuitas

After exploring Toledo’s Jewish Quarter, end your day with an excellent view over Toledo from the Iglesia de los Jesuitas.

Located in the city centre, this historic church allows you to climb its bell tower and provides incredible views over the city and the surrounding area.

Entry into the church and bell tower is €4 per person and the climb is relatively easy – it is on new stairs and it is not as high as many other bell towers of the same ilk.

And the views are definitely worth it and make it the perfect way to end your one day in Toledo.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Ii Castillas Madrid – If you’re on a mid-range budget, then this small hotel is a great option in Madrid. Located close to Plaza Callao in the centre of the city, they have several clean and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also breakfast available daily.

Only YOU Boutique Hotel – For those after a luxury stay in Madrid, this boutique hotel in the Cueca neighbourhood is a wonderful option. They have many luxury rooms to choose from and a restaurant/bar on site!

Hostal Foster – Perfect for budget travellers, this cosy guesthouse is a great choice in the centre of Madrid. Situated off of Gran Via, they have numerous cosy and air-conditioned rooms available.

The Hat Madrid — This boutique hostel located right next to the Plaza Mayor is an excellent choice for solo and budget travellers alike. They have a range of both dorm and private rooms available and is one of the highest-rated hostels in Madrid.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other Madrid hotels!

Planning the perfect Toledo day trip itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming when you consider just how much there is to see and do in this historic city. However, with its close proximity to the Spanish capital, Toledo makes for the perfect day trip destination from Madrid and is sure not to leave you wanting.

Are you planning to visit Toledo? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

A Guide to Lavapiés: Madrid’s Coolest Barrio

Is Barcelona Expensive? A Barcelona Trip Cost Guide

The Ultimate 5 to 7-Day Pyrenees Road Trip Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Very informative thank you !

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Toledo Day Trip from Madrid: Things to Do & How to Visit (+Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 16, 2024

Just a short journey from the bustling metropolis of Madrid , you’ll find one of the oldest and most unique cities in Spain – Toledo .

The former capital of the Spanish Empire and a melting pot of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences, Toledo boasts a rich heritage that unfolds through its winding cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s often referred to as the City of Three Cultures.

Toledo is also one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visit here is truly like taking a trip back in time.

All this makes it a perfect destination to get a good introduction to Spain’s rich and diverse history. So it comes as no surprise that Toledo is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid.

But how to visit Toledo from Madrid and what are the very best places to see and top things do in Toledo in a day?

To help you plan your visit, we share a recommended Toledo day trip itinerary including all the must-sees. You will also find practical information on how to get from Madrid to Toledo, suggestions on where to eat, etc.

Good to know: This article is published with the help of a fellow travel writer Taylor Spinelli of Taylstravels . She recently worked in Madrid and took every opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings. Toledo is her absolute favorite day trip destination from Madrid and so all the tips in this guide are based on her personal experience. Take a look!

How to Get to Toledo from Madrid

There are several options to choose from when traveling between Madrid and Toledo: by train, bus, car, or with a guided tour. Below, you can find more details and advantages/disadvantages of each.

1. BY TRAIN

Taking a train is the quickest way to reach Toledo from Madrid. It takes just a bit over half an hour each way.

Trains leave from Madrid-Puerta De Atocha-Almudena Grandes Station roughly every hour beginning from early morning until 9-10 pm. The cost of the round-trip ticket is around 28-32 Euros. You can find more information and book tickets online or at the station.

Good to know: The Toledo train station is about 20 minutes walk from the main part of the city. It’s walkable but a bit hilly. There are also taxis available outside the station.

This is the cheapest way to get from Madrid to Toledo. Depending on the bus schedule, the ride will take about 1-1.5 hours each way. Plus, the bus station is about 15-20 minutes walk from the old town (uphill when walking to town).

Buses leave from Madrid, Estación De Plaza Elíptica from around 7 am with frequent departures throughout the day. The cost of a roundtrip ticket is about 12-15 euros. You can find tickets on ALSA, or on the same website as for the trains.

You can also simply opt to rent a car and drive from Madrid to Toledo. Car hire is very affordable in Spain and without traffic, the ride should take just over an hour.

However, we don’t recommend renting a car for just a day trip to Toledo, but only if you are planning on visiting more places in the area and making a road trip. Take into account the time that it will take you to pick up (and drop off) the car, navigate both cities, find parking. Plus insurance, fuel, and parking costs, etc. We always use this website for car hire.

In Toledo, there are several options for parking. We recommend using parking garages since most metered parking spots have a 2-hour limit.

4. GUIDED TOUR

This is the most convenient way to visit Toledo on a day trip from Madrid. You don’t have to worry about transportation or where exactly to go and what to see. There are various options when it comes to organized trips: you can opt for a day tour that only visits Toledo or a tour that also visits Segovia .

Some tours cost about as much as a train ticket, others are more expensive. It really depends on the duration, group size, what is included, etc.

Here are the 5 best-rated day tours to Toledo from Madrid:

• Half- day tour (The main highlights of Toledo).
• 8-hour city + winery tour (Toledo city tour including some free time + winery visit).
• 8.5 hours Don Quixote de la Mancha Windmills and Toledo (The best tour if you want to see the famous windmills of Don Quixote as well as Toledo).
• 9-hour tour (Toledo city with free time to explore on your own).
• Full-day tour (Toledo and Segovia).

Map & Getting Around

As with most European cities, the best way to explore Toledo is on foot.

Thanks to its relatively small size and walkability, it is the perfect place to purposefully get yourself a little lost as you stroll through the small alleyways, along the river Tagus, and explore its many landmarks.

Keep in mind that Toledo’s walled old town is perched on a hill, with many steep cobbled streets, and the layout feels like a maze. While it adds to its charm, it also means that it’s not ideal for people with mobility issues. Furthermore, it can get really warm, so be sure to take some water with you.

Good to know: If you prefer not to walk too much, you can also take a tourist train. It passes many of the main landmarks in Toledo. You can find it at the main square, Plaza de Zocodover.

To help you orient and plan your time, we created a map of Toledo indicating all the places mentioned in this article. See below.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Toledo Tourist Bracelet

Before we continue with a detailed itinerary, there is one more thing you may want to know when planning your visit. The most cost-effective way to see some of the main landmarks in Toledo in a single day is by getting the Toledo Tourist Bracelet ( Pulsera Turística ).

The Toledo Tourist Bracelet grants you access to the 7 most important landmarks in the city and costs about as much as three separate tickets for the same attractions. So if you visit 3 or more of these sites, it’s better to get the bracelet. It’s also free for children under 12.

The attractions included with the Toledo Tourist Bracelet are:

• Church of the Savior ( Iglesia del Salvador ),
• Church of Santo Tomé ( Iglesia de Santo Tomé ),
• Ancient synagogue of Santa María la Blanca ( Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca ),
• Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes ( Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes ),
• Royal College of Noble Maidens ( Real Colegio Doncellas Nobles ),
• Jesuit Church ( Iglesia de los Jesuitas ),
• Former Mosque of Cristo de la Luz ( Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz).

You can find more information about each of these places further below. They are all located relatively close to each other and don’t require much time to visit, so it’s possible to see them all in just a few hours.

Good to know: You can get the bracelet online or at any of the seven locations. If you book it in advance, you simply scan your smartphone ticket at the entrance and get the wristband. You can then visit any of the other sites in any order you prefer.

Toledo Day Trip: Things to Do & Itinerary

Below, you can find a detailed itinerary to help you plan your Toledo day trip. Please note that the hours are only indicated for your reference, to give you a rough idea of how you could plan your time.

Here’s what to see and do on a day trip in Toledo:

Arrival & Alcantara Bridge

8.30 – 10 AM.

Arriving in Toledo early is key if you want to experience the beauty of the city with few people around. Early risers will have the luxury of wandering without the crowds and viewing the city as the locals do.

We recommend taking the first train or bus from Madrid, grabbing a bite to eat, and then spending the next hour or so wandering through the old town. Ideally, you don’t even look at a map and just let yourself get lost in the fascinating labyrinth of the medieval town center. But not too long – because there are some ‘must-sees’ that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Toledo for the first time!

As you walk from the station to the old town, don’t miss the Alcantara Bridge over the River Tagus. This Roman bridge is one of the main entrance gates to the city and one of the best photo spots in all of Toledo. From the northeastern side, you can enjoy a nice view of the bridge itself and Toledo Alcazar and the old town towering behind it.

Breakfast: If you didn’t have time for breakfast in Madrid, or just want to sit down and have some coffee, you will find plenty of options in Toledo. One of our favorite spots for breakfast in Toledo’s old town is El Trébol (indicated on our map). It’s a great place to sample a variety of tapas. They offer a sweet and a savory menu, allowing you to mix and match.

Alternatively, get some coffee and churros . The cinnamon sticks dipped in a rich and velvety chocolate can be found all over Spain and are usually eaten for breakfast. Churreria Chocolateria Santo Tome 27 near the Church of Santo Tomé is a great place for traditional churros in Toledo.

Toledo Cathedral

10 – 11.30 AM.

If there’s one spot you cannot miss on your first visit, it is the Cathedral , aka Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo (The Primatial Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo).

This remarkable Gothic masterpiece with Renaissance and Mudéjar influences is the most impressive architectural gem in Toledo. It’s the second-largest Cathedral in Spain (after the one in Seville ) and is constantly ranked among the most beautiful churches in the country.

In addition to its magnificent architecture, the Cathedral is also a real treasure trove of artistic wonders. Do not miss the exquisite artworks of El Greco, Velázquez, Rubens, Titian, Goya, Bellini, and Caravaggio.

TIP: There is A LOT to see and learn about this fascinating church. So be sure to get the audio tour (available at the entrance for a small additional cost, on top of the ticket price). Alternatively, join a guided tour . Without this, you will miss too much!

Good to know: Plan to stay for around 1-1.5 hours to fully enjoy everything that there’s to see inside.

Practical information: The Cathedral is open daily from 10 AM to 6.30 PM, except on Sundays and some holidays when it’s only open in the afternoon. So if you are visiting on a Sunday, you’ll have to adjust this itinerary a bit. See the official website for more info.

Next, visit the main sites included with the earlier-mentioned Toledo Tourist Bracelet . You don’t have to see them all, but since Toledo is the “City of Three Cultures”, we recommend seeing at least one monument from each of the three notable religions in the city.

We listed the landmarks included with the Toledo Tourist Bracelet by location, starting with the ones closest to the Cathedral, walking clockwise, and ending with the ones closest to the train/bus stations. But you can visit them in any order and/or skip the ones that don’t interest you.

Jesuit Church

11.30 – NOON.

Jesuit Church ( Iglesia de los Jesuitas ) is one of the ‘newer’ churches in Toledo. The church was built in the 18th century at the location of the house where Saint Ildefonsus, Patron Saint of Toledo, was born.

This beautiful Baroque church has a grand interior with ornate altars and exquisite chapels and is well worth seeing. But the main reason to come here is not the church itself, but the stunning views it offers!

You can visit its 50-meter tall towers and climb the 138 steps to reach an incredible view over the medieval city. Sandwiched in between the Cathedral and Alcazar, this view is hard to beat!

With plenty of churches to visit in Toledo, Iglesia de los Jesuitas may just seem like one of many… but do not skip this one.

Church of the Savior

12.15 – 12.30 PM.

Church of the Savior ( Iglesia del Salvador ) is one of Toledo’s oldest churches dating from the Middle Ages.

This small church has an extensive history as it was once a Visigoth Church and then a Mosque before becoming the Christian Church it is today. The architecture reflects the blend between these three cultures and makes this church worth paying a visit.

TIP: Don’t miss the underground archeological site and a tower where you can go up for a rooftop view.

Church of Santo Tomé

12.35 – 12.50 PM.

The Church of Santo Tomé ( Iglesia de Santo Tomé ) is another fairly quick visit, but it’s absolutely not to be missed.

The church dates from the 12th century and was built on the site of an old mosque.

However, the main attraction is not the church itself, but the famous El Greco painting “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz”. It’s one of the most famous paintings in Spain and is considered one of the most influential paintings in history. A must-see in Toledo!

1 – 2.30 PM.

Next, take a break from sightseeing and have some lunch. There are plenty of choices in the old town. Here are just a few suggestions that would best fit this itinerary location-wise:

• Lo Nuestro Taperia & Restaurante. A nice local restaurant serving a variety of typical regional dishes.
• Teteria Dar al Chai . This is a traditional teahouse with a beautifully decorated interior in Mudejar style. They also have a shady terrace. It offers a wide selection of coffee, tea, crepes, waffles, etc. However, this teahouse is usually closed for siesta (+-1-4 pm), so if you want to come here, try to get here at around noon.
• La Marmita. A simple restaurant with authentic dishes, home-cooked style.

Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca

2.30 – 2.45 PM.

After exploring some of the Catholic churches in Toledo, it’s time to see another side of its cultural heritage and visit the old synagogue of Santa María la Blanca ( Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca ),

Originally known as the Ibn Shushan Synagogue, Santa Maria La Blanca is the oldest Synagogue in Europe that is still intact. The Synagogue was constructed by Jews in a Moorish style and was later converted to a Catholic Church.

Nowadays, it functions as a museum and is a popular wedding venue. You don’t need much time here, but the interior is nice to see.

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

3 – 4 PM.

The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes ( Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes ) is one of the must-sees in Toledo. The cloisters are beautiful – some of the finest architecture in the city!

Founded at the end of the 15th century by the Spanish Catholic Monarchs, Isabel and Fernando, the Monastery was built as a gratitude for the victory in the battle of Toro in 1476.

The chapel is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic temples in Spain and was meant to serve as a burial place for the Monarchs. However, this never happened (they are buried in Granada).

While there is plenty to explore inside, one of the most impressive parts is the courtyard. Take a walk around the space gazing down through the arches while soaking up the history and admiring the stunning architecture.

Good to know: Plan to spend around 1 hour here. There is an audio guide available that you can download right onto your phone. It will take you through the premises and provide context for each part of the monastery.

San Martin’s Bridge

4 – 4.30 PM.

If you want to explore Toledo a bit deeper, beyond the main monuments, you could walk to the nearby San Martin’s Bridge ( Puente de Sant Martin ).

This is a very picturesque 14th-century bridge over the Tagus, offering nice views of the city. Nowadays, it’s a pedestrian bridge and a popular spot to take pictures of the medieval town. In addition, there is now also a zipline over the river.

Alternatively, just admire the view of the bridge from the Mirador del Puente San Martín observation deck. We indicated these places on our map – everything is very close by. But the hilly streets might influence your decision on which places you ultimately decide to visit, especially if it’s very warm.

Royal College of Noble Maidens

4.45 – 5 PM.

Royal College of Noble Maidens ( Real Colegio Doncellas Nobles ) was founded by Cardinal Silíceo in the 16th century. It was a school where young girls of all backgrounds could get their education.

The College was considered one of the best colleges in Europe and operated until the end of the 20th century.

With its well-preserved architecture, the Renaissance and early Baroque-style chapel, and elegant courtyard, Royal College is worth a quick visit. If you don’t have the time or interest for all the churches included with the Tourist Bracelet, the chapel of the Royal College is worth it more than e.g. Church of the Savior.

Monastery of Saint Dominic of Silos (+ Marzipan!)

5 – 5.15 PM.

The Monastery of Saint Dominic of Silos (Convento de Santo Domingo El Antiguo) is a little hidden gem of Toledo. Dating from the 16th century, it’s the oldest monastery in Toledo. El Greco is buried here and you can also see several of his paintings.

TIP: There is another good reason to stop here when exploring Toledo. The nuns of this monastery make and sell some of the best marzipan cookies in town. Even if the monastery is not open, you can ring a bell and when the little window opens, you place the money on the rotating tray and get some marzipan in return.

We first found out about this old Spanish tradition when visiting Seville where several monasteries still sell traditional homemade cookies. It’s always a unique experience, so don’t miss it! The marzipan at the Santo Domingo Monastery is absolutely delicious! Plus, it keeps an old tradition alive.

Former Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

5.30 – 5.45 PM.

The former Mosque of Cristo de la Luz (Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz) was built in 999 and is the oldest standing monument in all of Toledo. It’s sometimes called a mini copy of the famous Cordoba Mosque in Andalusia (southern Spain).

In the 12th century, the mosque was converted into a church and later became a private chapel.

The building is really small, but is rich in history and art and is well worth a few minutes of your time.

Puerta del Sol & Puerta Nueva de Bisagra

5.45 – 6 PM.

Puerta del Sol and Puerta Nueva de Bisagra are two very impressive medieval city gates of Toledo. These are just a quick photo stop, but well worth a small detour.

They are both located rather close to the Former Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, so don’t miss them. Depending on where you enter or leave the walled old town in the morning and the evening, you may also pass these city gates earlier or later in the day.

Plaza de Zocodover

Plaza de Zocodover is the main square of Toledo and is not to be missed. It’s a nice place to take a break after all the sightseeing and do some people-watching.

Interesting to know: ‘Zocodover’ name means “market of burden beasts” and indeed, in the old days, there was a market here where one could buy donkeys, horses, mules, etc.

This is also the place where you can catch a tourist train if you rather not walk too much. In that case, you may prefer to come here earlier and only visit a few of the main landmarks inside.

Additional Suggestions

Depending on your interests and how much time you have, here are a few additional suggestions of places you could visit on a Toledo day trip (just be sure to check the opening hours and adjust the itinerary if needed):

• If you just can’t get enough of El Greco’s works, you may also want to visit Museo del Greco . This museum is a recreation of the master’s home and showcases many of his Spanish artworks. It’s located just 5 minutes walk from the Church of Santo Tomé so you can easily add it to this itinerary. You’ll need at least half an hour extra for a visit here.
• The Museum of Santa Cruz is another nice little museum in the heart of the old town. Located in the former medieval hospital building, it has a very varied collection – from El Greco’s work and Roman archeology to Picasso.
• Toledo Alcázar is one of the most prominent landmarks of the skyline of Toledo, so you’ll see it from a distance a few times. While not as impressive as from the outside, you can also visit the building. Nowadays, it houses a Military Museum.
• Parque de La Vega. Located just outside the walled old town, this small park is a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. There are several cafés and kiosks here where you can get some drinks/snacks.

If you’re staying in Toledo for dinner, keep in mind that many restaurants in Spain only open for dinner quite late, after 7 – 7.30 PM. But there are also quite a few nice places that usually remain open the whole day. Here are a few suggestions:

• El Trébol. Located close to Plaza de Zocodover and Alcazar, we already mentioned this tapas bar as a nice option for breakfast. Well, it’s just as good for dinner too (or even lunch, if you are in this part of town at that time). It’s an excellent quality spot for traditional local food.
• Taberna El Botero , located close to the Cathedral, is another great place for a cozy, affordable, and delicious sit-down option. Here you’ll find a variety of meat and fish dishes and a cocktail menu. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect spot to decompress after a long day of exploring.
• Madre Tierra is a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. Located between Alcazar and the Cathedral, this restaurant offers a good selection of vegetarian food made from organic ingredients.

You can find all of these restaurants indicated on our map as well.

TIP: If you want to try some regional dishes, ask for carcamusas . This pork stew made with seasonal vegetables and tomatoes is one of the specialties of Toledo. It’s typically served as tapas, but can also be a stand-alone dish. Pisto Manchego is another specialty of the Castilla La Mancha region. It’s a vegetable stew, kind of a Spanish ratatouille, and is often served with an egg.

Tips for Visiting Toledo

Here are some tips for your first visit to Toledo:

• Go early. Toledo is a very popular day trip destination, especially during the high season (from May to September). Getting to the city early allows you to explore the small alleyways nearly all on your own before the crowds start rolling in. Take the earliest train/bus from Madrid to ensure you have a couple of hours where the city is at its most quiet and peaceful to explore virtually on your own!
• Dress modestly. Toledo is home to many churches, synagogues, and mosques so if you plan to visit many religious buildings, it’s always best to cover up a bit, even if it’s summer. We recommend wearing clothes that cover your knees, shoulders, and chest. If you choose to wear shorts or tank tops, pack a lightweight scarf to tie around your waist or to drape over your shoulders when entering religious sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes! As already mentioned, Toledo is a medieval town built on a hill. So you’ll be walking a lot and mostly on cobbled stones, staircases, etc. Comfortable footwear is a must!

• Extend your stay if you can. While a day trip is an amazing option for those short on time, Toledo has so much to offer and extending is always a great choice! Spending a night (or two) here is a great way to experience the city and its magical atmosphere without the crowds of day tourists. Plus, accommodation prices are very affordable. TIP: We recommend Casa Palacio Rincón de la Catedral , a beautiful Inn in a historic building in the center.
• Use audio tours/apps. Toledo is rich in culture and history, but without some background, it’s often difficult to appreciate what you see. So if you are not taking a guided tour , make use of audioguides at the landmarks and/or download a self-guided city app . It provides additional context to all the places you are already exploring and makes your visit more special.
• Bring earphones/headphones. If you choose to use the audio tours, you will need a good pair of headphones. If you go with a guided tour, these are normally provided if needed.
• Taste some marzipan. A trip to Toledo is not complete without tasting marzipan, a delicious sweet almond-based dessert. Though marzipan is often associated with Christmas time, in Toledo, it’s eaten year-round. At Confitería Santo Tomé, they have been making these almond treats filled with sugar and honey since 1856. Or buy some marzipan from the nuns, as mentioned earlier.

So, this is our guide to visiting Toledo. We hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect, helps you plan a perfect day trip to Toledo, and make the most of your day.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List (Top places & experiences not to miss on first visit)

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Barcelona Travel Tips
• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• 1 Day in Barcelona
• 2 Days in Barcelona
• Best Gaudi Tour in Barcelona
• How to Visit Montserrat from Barcelona
• Montserrat Tour Review
• 1 Day in Madrid
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Photos: Taylor Spinelli and Depositphotos.com.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Adventures in Destinations Unknown

A Perfect Toledo Day Trip from Madrid

Last modified on May 10th, 2023 at 20:23

Toledo is one of Spain’s most magnificent and storied cities. Positioned on a hill overlooking the Tagus River, the attraction-packed gem is a popular day trip from Madrid and a highlight of travel to Central Spain.

Much of Toledo’s beauty lies in its pretty church-speckled streets, its decorated synagogue walls and its tucked-away mosques. With its monument-laden core, Toledo is a testament to the harmony which once existed between the world’s three monotheistic faiths. As a result, mosques, cathedrals and synagogues cram into the city’s dense and compact core.

Walking in the footsteps of these religious treasures remains the most compelling thing to do in present-day Toledo.

Table of Contents

DAY TRIP FROM MADRID TO TOLEDO

I organized a day trip to Toledo with my future mother-in-law, following a whirlwind five days in Barcelona, Andorra and Madrid. Toledo is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Madrid both because of its proximity, and because of its wealth of historical attractions.

If at all possible, visiting the city should be a top priority when traveling to Central Spain.

GETTING FROM MADRID TO TOLEDO

Toledo lies roughly 75km from Madrid. Its close proximity to the Spanish capital makes it easily reachable using a variety of public transportation methods and organized tours . Since we wanted to explore the city at our own leisure and didn’t want to deal with the hassle of renting a car, we opted to take the train.

High speed trains between Madrid’s Atocha Station and Toledo are both frequent and convenient. The train journey takes about 30 minutes and costs roughly €14 each way. Buses traveling the route are a bit cheaper, but take upwards of an hour for the same journey.

Our train ride to Toledo from Madrid was fast, comfortable and convenient. Seemingly in the blink of an eye, we found ourselves standing in front of the Moorish-influenced train station, just a stone’s throw away from the gates of Toledo’s old city.

THINGS TO DO IN TOLEDO SPAIN

From the Toledo Station, we headed through the Puerta del Sol, into Toledo’s old town. Immediately, we found ourselves lost in a maze of intriguing side streets, hidden churches, lively plazas, and shops selling delectable sweets.

Toledo is teeming with things to see and do—from sampling marzipan pastries, to shopping for knives, to discovering historical relics. It is no wonder that the UNESCO-laden gem is such a popular day trip from Madrid.

We had little in the way of an organized itinerary before visiting Toledo. And yet, by simply wandering through Toledo’s streets and alleyways, we stumbled upon many of its top attractions regardless.

VISIT ZOCODOVER SQUARE

We began our self-guided walking tour of Toledo at the lively Zocodover Square. A central gathering place, the square has long been the hub of Toledo’s old town. From the 1400s until the 1960s, Zocodover was the scene of the city’s Arab S ouk al-Dawab. 

Today, though the square shows no indication that it was once an Arab market, it is nonetheless a nice place to visit and a good starting point for tours of the old city center.

LOOK UP AT THE ALCAZAR

Towering over the city’s labyrinthine streets and a few paces from Zocodover Square, looms the foreboding Alcazar.

The Alcazar of Toledo is a stone fortification located in the highest part of the city. Originally constructed as a Roman palace, the since-remodeled structure became the site of a ten-week siege during the Spanish Civil War in 1936. The siege—which resulted in the capture of some 2,000 people and culminated in the hostage-taking of Colonel Jose Moscardo’s 16 year old son, Luis—made the building a centerpiece of Spanish lore and a symbol of the country’s nationalism.

Today, the imposing Alcazar houses Toledo’s military museum.

GAPE AT THE TOLEDO CATHEDRAL

From the Alcazar, we walked to the Toledo Cathedral–a masterpiece of Spanish architecture. The cathedral dates back to the 1200s. Its unique architecture contains a melting pot of styles, including Gothic, Mudéjar and Renaissance.

Armed with the regrettable attitude that a church is a church is a church, we chose not to pay the cathedral’s €10 entrance fee. Later, however, after seeing images of the church’s alter and vaulted ceilings, we realized we had made a mistake.

Travelers who—like us—would like to get a glimpse of the church’s interior without paying €10, can peek into the cathedral using a small side door that provides access to one of its chapels.

VISIT THE REYES MONASTERY

The imposing 15th century Reyes Monastery sits in the heart of Toledo’s Jewish quarter. Constructed by Catholic monarchs Isabel and Fernando, the Franciscan Monastery was built with the intention of demonstrating the supremacy of Christianity.

The highlight of the monastery is is a two-level cloister that surrounds a manicured garden. The cloister reminded me of the courtyard in Lisbon’s Jeronimos Monastery. It boasts elaborate stonework, intricate arches, and vaulted ceilings.

Entrance to the Reyes Monastery costs €3.

ADMIRE THE SANTA MARIA LA BLANCA SYNAGOGUE-TURNED-CHURCH

From the Reyes Monastery, we entered the exquisite Church of Santa Maria la Blanca. The delicate structure—originally known as the Ibn Shoshan Synagogue—is a synagogue-turned church that dates back to the 1100s.

The exquisite building displays the Mudéjar style of architecture. Characterized by ornamentation and Islamic-influenced motifs, the style was popularly used by the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish builders who lived in parts of Moorish Spain.

Muslim architects built the Ibn Shoshan Synagogue on Christian soil. Its construction reflects the religious tolerance of Medieval Toledo.

In the early 15th century, Christians renamed the structure and turned it into a church.

Today, Santa Maria la Blanca has been deconsecrated, beautifully restored, and opened to the public as a museum.

DINE IN ONE OF TOLEDO’S TRADITIONAL EATERIES

Toledo may be a small city, but it punches above its weight when it comes to food. In 2016, the city was deemed Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy.

In Toledo, stews made of rabbit, venison and partridge, are common fare. After a morning of sightseeing, we chose to stop by a lovely outdoor restaurant in Toledo’s old town for a bite of traditional food. My mother-in-law and I shared a meal of partridge and rabbit. The food was delicious and beautifully presented.

Toledo’s gastronomical appeal extends to its sweets. According to Spanish folklore, the nuns at the Convent of St Clement invented Marzipan during the 16th century. And while the veracity of the claim has been contested, residents of Toledo have embraced the sweet almond paste as entirely their own.

As a result, Toledo is chock-a-block full of shops selling marzipan in nearly every shape and form.

Needless to say, we made several stops to sample the sweet confections.

RELISH THE BEST VIEWPOINT IN TOLEDO

The Mirador del Valle is Toledo’s best-known viewpoint. It sits across the river from the city’s downtown core, located a half hour on foot from the train station. Due to poor lighting, we chose to skip the Mirador del Valle. We realized that if we wanted to stop by the viewpoint, it would have been best to visit in the morning, immediately after arriving in Toledo.

In the afternoon, the sun’s position casts shadows over the city—making Toledo’s most photogenic viewpoint unfavorable for photography.

Instead, we realized we were better off soaking in the city’s skyline views from the Idelfonso Church Bell Tower.

The view from the bell tower is one of the finest in Toledo and well worth the €3 entrance fee.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO SEE IN TOLEDO

For being such a small city, Toledo packs a lot of punch. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts  some of Spain’s finest monuments, it merits at least an overnight visit.

Since I only had time to visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid, I was not able to experience all the top things to do in Toledo firsthand.

If I could go back in time, however, I would have done a few things differently in order to ensure I made the most of my day trip.

First off, I would have purchased a €10 tourist wristband that allows for entrance into six of the town’s top monuments. The wristband includes three of the sites we visited (the Church of San Idelfonso, the Church of Santa Maria la Blanca and the Reyes Monastery), as well as access to the Iglesia del Salvator , the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz and the Church of Santo Tome .

Each site costs €3 to visit individually, making the combination ticket a fantastic value for money.

In addition to the sites that can be accessed with a wristband, I wish we would have entered the Toledo Cathedral and visited the El Transito Synagogue.

When we traveled to Toledo, we knew we wanted to visit a synagogue. What we didn’t know, is that Toledo houses two within spitting distance of each other. And while we enjoyed setting foot in the lovely white-arched synagogue-turned-church of Santa Maria la Blanca, we would have loved to see the stucco decorations of El Transito as well.

EVENING IN MADRID

After our unforgettable day trip to Toledo, we headed to Madrid’s Mercado de San Miguel for dinner. The market—adjacent to Plaza Mayor— is a foodie-lover’s paradise that overflows with an enticing variety of tapas and cocktails.

Once we filled our bellies with an assortment of savory treats from the market’s food hall, we headed to the nearby San Gines Chocolateria for a tasty dessert of churros and chocolate.

Following our indulgence in some of the tastiest Spanish foods , we had a few hours to enjoy the jovial atmosphere of Madrid’s historic downtown.

Madrid is a city that exceeded my expectations. For some reason, I’d always viewed Madrid as second to Barcelona . As a result, I only really considered visiting the city with the intention of using it as a gateway to Toledo.

Yet my limited time in Madrid made me realize that Spain’s largest city is not merely a financial and political hub. On the contrary, an ideal Madrid itinerary includes visits to regal buildings, pleasant streets, world-class museums and leafy parks.

Between Madrid’s nightlife , its jovial atmosphere, its pretty aesthetics and its vibrant food scene, Spain’s capital city quickly made me feel as though I’d set foot in one of Europe’s most livable cities.

Fortunately, prior to our day trip to Toledo, we had a half day to wander Madrid’s parks and visit its exceptional Prado Museum.

Still, the lack of time we dedicated to Madrid meant we were only able to skim the surface of what the city has to offer.

As a result, I now have every intention of using Madrid as a launching point for future visits to Spain .

While I spent the first part of my Spain vacation revisiting places I had seen nearly a decade prior, I was excited to add a new Spanish city to my travel repertoire.

And Toledo didn’t disappoint.

Toledo is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and an easy day trip from Madrid. It is the type of place that feels frozen in time. The type of place where artisans have perfected their craft for centuries. The type of place where culinary traditions are alive and well.

As I walked through the city’s streets and admired its monument-crammed core, it wasn’t difficult to imagine a time when Toledo was one of Spain’s most important cities. Or a time when interfaith cooperation in the city meant that the world’s three monotheistic religions coexisted in harmony.

_______________________________________________

Like this Toledo Day Trip Post? Pin It!

THE BEST Day Trips from Madrid to Toledo

Day trips from madrid to toledo.

• Madrid to Toledo
• Madrid to Segovia
• Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial
• Madrid to Castile and Leon
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Toledo Tour with Cathedral, Synagoge & St Tome Church from Madrid

2. Three Cities in One Day: Segovia, Avila & Toledo from Madrid

3. Toledo and Segovia Full-Day Tour with an Optional Visit to Avila

4. Toledo Half or Full-Day Guided Tour from Madrid

5. Toledo City Tour, Winery Experience & Wine Tasting from Madrid

6. Toledo Private Tour with Guide and Private Driver from Madrid

7. Segovia and Toledo Day Trip with Alcazar Ticket and Optional Cathedral

8. Toledo Tour: Cathedral & 8 Monuments with Pick-up from Madrid

9. Toledo Tour with Cathedral, St Tome Church & Synagoge from Madrid

10. Tour the Windmills of Don Quixote de la Mancha and Toledo with Lunch

11. Toledo Half-Day Tour with St Tome Church & Synagoge from Madrid

12. Half Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

13. Full Toledo with 7 Monuments and Optional Cathedral from Madrid

14. Toledo Full-Day Walking Tour with Guide from Madrid

15. Toledo Panoramic! from Madrid with Transportation and Panoramic Tour

16. Toledo Tour with Cathedral by AVE High Speed Train from Madrid

17. >Tour through Toledo, Mills and La Mancha winery with Lunch.

18. Toledo Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Optional 7 Monuments Access

19. The Most Popular Trip to Toledo from Madrid

20. Toledo Full Day with Winery Visit, Tapas & Wine Tasting

21. Royal Monastery of El Escorial + Toledo Half Day Afternoon Tour

22. Toledo Experience, a Tour from Madrid

23. Classic Toledo! from Madrid with transportation and guided tour

24. Day Trip to Toledo UNESCO World Heritage all Inclusive

25. Toledo and Segovia with Priority Access to Alcazar of Segovia from Madrid

26. Toledo and Segovia Private Tour with Hotel Pick Up from Madrid

27. From Madrid: Full-Day Medieval Tour in Toledo and Ávila

28. Toledo on your Own with 7 Monuments Included from Madrid

29. Toledo Private Tour from Madrid

30. Magical Toledo - Half Day Trip from Madrid with culinary tasting

What travelers are saying.

• Gizem B 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles It was a great journey It was a good trip. The guide was very sympathetic. We enjoyed the trip. And the timing was very well. You can come with your kids Read more Review of: Toledo Tour with Cathedral, Synagoge & St Tome Church from Madrid Written April 10, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

[Complete Guide] Day Trip From Madrid to Toledo by Train, Bus or Car

Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage List city in Spain, right outside of the capital city, and it’s the perfect destination for a day trip from Madrid .

The question is:

How to get to Toledo from Madrid?  

That’s exactly what we’ll see in the guide below.

+ what to see once you’re in Toledo.

Let’s get to it!

There are many ways to go on a day trip to Toledo; whether you choose to go from Madrid to Toledo by train, bus, car, or with a tour, it all comes down to personal preference . We will see below the pros and cons of each option , so you can choose the best option for you.

In this travel guide about a Toledo-Madrid day trip, you’ll find in the table of contents below everything that we’ll see, from how to go to Toledo from Madrid to what to do in Toledo. Simply click on the table to expand it, then click on any part you’d like to jump to.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why Is a Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid a Good Idea?

How to get from madrid to toledo, exploring toledo – what to do during your toledo day trip, recommended toledo day trip itinerary, what to know before going to toledo, best activities & tours in toledo, where to stay in toledo, spain, visit spain.

Toledo is a good choice for a day trip from Madrid for 2 reasons: the Madrid Toledo trip is a really short one, and 1 day is enough to explore Toledo.

Short distance Madrid to Toledo

Toledo is located in the south west of Madrid, in the Castilla-la-Mancha region. Toledo is the capital of the region.

How far is Toledo from Madrid? The Madrid to Toledo distance is only 72 km / 45 miles.

Getting to Toledo from Madrid will take you around 1 hour, making a Madrid to Toledo day trip really easy.

1 day is enough to explore Toledo

The second reason why Toledo is a good choice for a day trip is that you will be able to see most of the city in one day.

The city of Toledo is pretty spread out, but all of the iconic monuments are located in the same area, in the old town. You can walk from one side of the old town to the other in 30 minutes, which makes it easy to discover the city through a walking tour .

The distance from Madrid to Toledo is pretty short (72 km/45 miles), which makes it an easy city to reach, whether it’s by car, bus or train.

You can see in the table below a quick comparison of the different ways to get from Madrid to Toledo based on time, cost, pros and cons.

Read below for more details on each means of transportation.

From Madrid to Toledo by Car

Renting a car is my favorite way to travel, because it gives me total flexibility. If you’re planning to visit other places after/before Toledo, I definitely recommend renting a car. If you’re only doing a day trip Madrid to Toledo, then it’s probably not the best option, since you won’t really need your car to explore Toledo.

Average Time

To get from Madrid to Toledo by car, it’s very easy; the A-42 goes straight to Toledo, and it doesn’t even have tolls.

If you use the freeway , it will take you around 1h  to reach Toledo.

The cost to get from Madrid to Toledo by car includes car rental and gas.

Car Rental : 10€

Renting a car from the Madrid airport for 1 day is really cheap, and unless you want a really fancy car, you’ll find one for around 10€, including unlimited mileage and insurance.

Get the best prices for your car rental here : Car rental in Madrid

With only 2h of driving, you won’t need to add that much gas before returning the car.

Tolls : Free

There is no toll on that portion of the road.

Parking : Free

As in most places in Europe, parking in Toledo is actually pretty expensive. But don’t worry, there are a few free parking around the city, to avoid additional costs.

See here : Free Parking in Toledo

Total Cost : 25€

Obviously if you’re from Spain and already have a car, the cost to get from Madrid to Toledo by car will be reduced to 15€.

Madrid to Toledo by Car

From Madrid to Toledo by Bus

If you want to avoid the hassle of driving (or if you don’t have a driving license), there is another option to reach Toledo: taking a bus from Madrid to Toledo.

The autobus Madrid Toledo takes a little longer than the other transportation options, but it’s the cheapest option. What I love about the bus is that it takes you right in the old center, ready to explore the city.

The bus Madrid to Toledo takes around 50 minutes to do the trip, and leaves from the Plaza Eliptica station. The station is in the south of Madrid, and you’ll need to account for additional time to reach it.

The bus is the cheapest option to go from Madrid to Toledo, costing around 12€ for a return trip.

Get the best prices for your Bus Trip here : Bus Madrid Toledo

Madrid to Toledo Bus Timetable

The Bus Madrid Toledo runs every day, from 6:45am to 10pm, and there is on average 2 buses per hour.

To see all of the times, click here: Madrid Toledo bus timetable

Madrid to Toledo by Bus

From Madrid to Toledo by Train

The third option for the Madrid Toledo day trip is to take the high speed train (and it’s great if you’re on an interrail trip !)

Taking the train from Madrid to Toledo is the quickest way to reach Toledo, in around 30 minutes. At around 28€ for a return ticket, it’s a cost-effective way for a single traveller to reach Toledo, but I would recommend renting a car if you’re travelling as 2 or more.

To train Madrid to Toledo takes exactly 33 minutes to reach its destination. The train will drop you in Toledo main station, which is only a short walk to the old center (15 minutes).

A ticket for a return trip in the Madrid to Toledo train costs around 27,8€ .

Book the AVE Madrid Toledo train on the RENFE website here : Trains Madrid Toledo

Madrid to Toledo Train Schedule

Trains from Madrid to Toledo run every day, from 6:50am to 10:50pm, and there is on average 1 train per hour.

To see all of the times, click here: Madrid Toledo train schedule

Madrid to Toledo by Train

Toledo Tours from Madrid

The last option to go from Madrid to Toledo is with a Toledo day tour from Madrid.

It’s the most expensive option, but it’s also the best way to discover Toledo, with a guide showing you around the city, with an added explanation of the city’s history, and included fast-track entry to 7 monuments.

To tour will take you from Madrid to Toledo by bus, and it will take around 1h30 . Once in the city, you will visit 3 monuments with the guide.

The day trip tour from Madrid to Toledo costs 42€ .

Bonus: skip-the-line tickets included.

Book your tour to Toledo here : Tour from Madrid to Toledo

Madrid Toledo Tour

So there you have them, the 4 ways to go from Madrid to Toledo. Whether you decide to drive to Toledo, take the AVE Madrid to Toledo, the Madrid Toledo autobus, or go on a guided tour, it all comes down to personal preference.

Now let’s go over what you should see in the city!

Now that you know how to get from Madrid to Toledo, let’s look at what you can do once you get there, with one day in Toledo! We’ll go over what are the absolute must-see in the city, and what to eat in Toledo.

What to See in Toledo Spain in One Day

When you approach Toledo, you’ll instantly see the main monuments in the city: the Alcazar de Toledo, and the Toledo Cathedral.

Alcazar de Toledo

The Alcazar de Toledo, or Toledo Castle, is the most recognizable building in the city, with its 4 towers overlooking the city.

It’s a very imposing monument, and it looks great from any angle. Inside, you’ll find a museum, the Museo del Ejercito, the army museum that will take you through the rich history of the city.

Catedral de Toledo

Probably the most famous monument in Toledo, the Catedral de Toledo is one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in the world .

It’s absolutely huge, and filled with things to discover: more than 20 chapels, a cloister, the bell tower, and even a museum. Plan at least 2 hours if you want to see all the beauty of the place.

Mirador del Valle

The mirador del Valle is the best view over the city of Toledo, and the perfect postcard view you have probably already seen everywhere.

Definitely a must-see in Toledo, it will give you an incredible view over the city, and it’s the perfect place to catch the sunrise or the sunset.

So there you have it, your answer to what to see in Toledo Spain in one day. Of course there are more to see in Toledo than these 3 main places, but these should be on top of your list.

What to Eat in Toledo

Did you know that Toledo was Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy in 2016? More than just epic monuments, the city is famous for its gastronomical heritage. Here are 2 classic things to try while you’re in Toledo in a day.

The Marzipan, or Mazapán as locals call it, is probably one of the most famous food of Toledo. Made of almonds, sugar and egg yolks, it’s a sweet pastry that you need to try!

Where to eat Marzipan : you’ll find Marzipan in a lot of pastry shops in the city; one of the best is the Confitería Santo Tomé on Plaza Zocodover.

Another specialty of Toledo is the carcamusa: made of pork, tomatoes, peas and white wine, it’s served as a bar snack, and perfect to warm up in winter.

Where to eat Carcamusa : basically any bar in the city! Best served at the Bar Ludeña .

To make it easy for you to explore Toledo on your day trip from Madrid, I’ve created a custom map, specially for you.

And yes, it’s free .

Here’s your Toledo day trip itinerary map:

Note : you can start the itinerary at any point; if you’re coming by bus or train, you’ll start it from the end (point J).

This itinerary will allow you to explore Toledo in the best way possible, to make the most out of your day trip from Madrid to Toledo. If you want more information about this itinerary, including photos and details about each place you’ll visit, click on the guide below.

If you’re planning to discover Toledo by walking around in the city, then I have a few tips for you.

These will help you make the most out of your visit in Toledo:

• as for any walking tour, make sure to wear proper footwear ! You’ll walk in the city for most of the time, so sneakers are ok
• wear sunscreen and a hat if it’s sunny; the sun is no joke
• remember to be respectful when you enter places of worship: take off your hats, and be quiet
• bring a thermos with you on your walk, you’ll be happy to have cold water/hot coffee with you when you sit down for a break

If you want to make the most out of your trip to Toledo, you’ll find below a few selected activities that will take your visit to the next level:

Tour from Madrid to Toledo

We saw this one above, it’s the full package for your day trip to Toledo. It includes the round trip transportation to/from Toledo, the guided visit of the city, and skip-the-line tickets

See more here : Best Tour Madrid Toledo

Private Tour with a Local

One of the best ways to discover Toledo: discover the monuments, but also get a feel for the locals and how it is to live in the city. The local guide will help you discover the city, and tailor the tour based on your preferences.

See more here : Toledo Private Tour

Toledo Cathedral Tour 

Want to take your visit of Toledo main sight to the next level? Book a local guide to discover the Toledo Cathedral, who will tell you absolutely everything about this incredible place.

See more here : Toledo Cathedral Tour

If you decide to stay longer in Toledo to fully discover the city, you’ll find below the best hotels depending on your travel style:

Budget : Albergue Juvenil Los Pascuales

Cheapest accommodation in Toledo, for around 14€ per night.

This youth hostel is only 2 minutes away from the Toledo Cathedral and the Toledo Castle. It also comes with included breakfast!

Comfy : Hotel San Juan de los Reyes

The Hotel San Juan de los Reyes is my favorite accommodation for a comfy stay in Avila, for around 75€ per night.

It’s ideally located in Toledo, a short walk from all the main sights. The beds are pretty comfy, and the included breakfast makes it a perfect choice for your stay in Avila. You’ll also enjoy free parking (which is nice in Toledo), and spacious bathroom with a hydro-massage bathtubs, perfect to relax after a long day of exploration in the city.

Luxury : Almunia de San Miguel

The best hotel in Toledo , hands down.

The Almunia de San Miguel has everything you’ll need, and even more: free parking, breakfast included, incredible rooms, and the location… The hotel is right next to the castle and the cathedral, you can’t be closer! There’s even a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Planning a day trip to Toledo from Madrid? You can find below several other articles about this wonderful part of the world to help you plan your trip:

Toledo Guides:

Discover the Puente de San Martin and its Legend

A Stunning Church + An Epic View? Yes Please!

Visit the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes

Spain Guides:

Best Sunrise Spot in Mallorca

Free Walking Tour of Avila

How to get from Madrid to Segovia

I hope you enjoy your trip to Toledo and to Spain!

If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

If you post your photos of Toledo on Instagram, tag them with #kevmrc so that we can see them!

Photo credits: 11 | 12  

Travel Tools

Use any of our recommended links below to book your trip. You pay the same, and we earn a small fee; a great way to support us!

• Find the Best Hotels
• Find a Rental Car
• Insure Your Trip
• Book Your Activities

Pin this to Pinterest!

Enjoyed this guide? Then help a fellow traveler and pin it! They'll most definitely love you for it, 100% guarantee.

Pin It Now Follow Me on Pinterest

Hey, I'm Kevin

I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

Come say hi on social!

Countries I've visited

Recommended Reading

Very useful! thanks a lot =)

Thanks for the feedback Amanda, glad you found it useful!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Join our community of responsible travellers. Let's connect!

Spanish Nomad

One day in Toledo, the ultimate itinerary you need for an unforgettable visit

Right after the massive lockdown in Europe in 2020, I got to travel to Toledo for a day. At the time, my brother was studying there so I got to drive with him to pick up some of his stuff. Spending one day in Toledo was the perfect getaway albeit a bit far from Cadiz, where I am from. However, this one-day trip is one of the many things you can do if you are visiting Madrid since it’s only a 30-minute train ride or a 1.5 hour bus ride.

I didn’t do much planning which I regret because I lost some precious time. That’s why after my not-so-perfect day in Toledo, I decided I would put together the itinerary I would have loved to follow. This is what I ideally would have done, had I had a better grasp of things during my visit to Toledo.

Before you visit Toledo…

These are some things to consider before you spend one day in Toledo or in any place for that matter. Just a reminder to do some research before embarking on your adventure.

You will not have time to see everything

That’s a fact. The historic city of Toledo has been declared Unesco heritage and it has innumerable historical sites that exude history… And one day in Toledo is not enough. Think about the places that you absolutely cannot miss and build your itinerary on that.

I have put together a map with a suggested route, main attractions and other places of interest around the area so that you can visualise where everything stands. If there is anything you would like to visit and is not there, just add it to the map.

Research lesser-known things to do

Do some research to learn what other activities that line up with your hobbies you can do. For example, I knew I wanted to go to a lookout to out of the city to take awesome photos, visit the Jewish museum and do a guided city tour because I love learning a little about history. So before I started my day I made sure I had all that arranged and planned. 

Think about things that you enjoy when you travel. History? Architecture? Photography? Food? Nature? Adventure sports? There is plenty to do in Toledo but if you do not research it you will miss out. 

These are some cool things off the beaten path you can do in Toledo during the day: – City zip line over the river – Self-guided city tour through a city escape – Join a food tour – Nature hike along the Tagus river and up the Valley

You can totally have a fulfilling day in Toledo for free, minus food and beverages, of course. Here are a few choices on how you can spend your money wisely if you decide to do so and how to save a few euros.

Tourist bracelet

You can buy a tourist bracelet for 10 Euros, totally worth it if you are going to visit 4 or more of the monuments. Otherwise, each monument costs 3 euros each. The bracelet is valid for as long as you have it in your wrist so you can use it multiple days and you can totally reenter all the monuments. I think it is also worth it even if you are just staying one day in Toledo, because some spots don’t take very long to visit. Check here what monuments are included in the deal. 

Free visits

Some museums, galleries and buildings will be free or at a reduced price on certain days of the week, especially during this “new normality”. Below, you will find more detailed information, but if you want an easy list of free monuments put together by a local tour operator click on this link (sorry, only in Spanish).

Well, they are not exactly free since you are expected to tip the guide. It is still cheaper than your average tour and quite informative. A few companies offer these services and you can make a reservation through here or show up in Plaza Zocodover and ask if you can join them.

Perfect one day itinerary

Let me be clear before we start, there is no perfect itinerary. This is my version of a perfect day in Toledo here and now. Next year I may feel different about it and you now may feel different, too. Everybody likes different things to do, travels at different paces, have different budgets… There is no one size fits all. (By the way, I hate it when I see that label on clothing. It clearly doesn’t fit people my hight, how absurd!! Just say I didn’t want to bother making smaller sizes…)

Having said that, remember, this is just a guideline so that you don’t feel lost as I did.

Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo

• How to get there : It depends on where you are staying
• Why you should visit: The jewel of the crown in Toledo
• Duration: 15 mins (outside), 1.5 – 2 hours (full visit)
• Price: 10.50 Euros / 12.50 including bell tower and tapestry museum
• Included in tourist bracelet: no
• Discount: Sundays from 14 to 18.30h. free for Toledo locals, 2.50 euros for Spanish citizens and normal price for non-citizens.
• Other points of interest in the area:  Museum of Manchego cheese, Alcázar and Military Museum
• Go to Mass at 9 am to listen to the service in the Hispanic-Mozarabic rite (as opposed to the Roman rite). 
• If you are interested in the Military Museum it’s better to visit it in the morning since this self walking tour will only lead you further from it.
• Pro tip: I have recently read that visits to the Cathedral will soon be free Monday to Friday 8 to 9.30 am. The reason is that Unesco Heritage buildings should be free at least 4 times a month, someone pointed that out and they are studying the case. You can read the news in Spanish here .
• Website: https://www.catedralprimada.es/en

Santo Tomé Church

• Distance from previous stop: 3 min. walk
• How to get there : walk up on Cardenal Cisneros road following Camino el Salvador and Santo Tome road.
• Why you should visit: This church from the 1400s holds the most important painting from El Greco, El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz .
• Duration: 5 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
• Price: 3 euros
• Included in tourist bracelet: yes
• Discount: free for Toledo locals (so this is probably a no for you)
• El Salvador Church on Plaza de El Salvador (3 euros or free entry with tourist bracelet);
• the narrowest street in Toledo, Callejón de la Soledad , a bit further up Santo Tomé street.
• follow Paseo del Conde towards Mirador de San Cristóbal for a nice view of the most expensive cottages in Toledo, the Cigarrales .
• Tip: if you don’t have the tourist bracelet and you are not interested in seeing the most famous painting by El Greco, you can either skip this spot if swap if for El Salvador Church.
• Website: http://santotome.org/la-iglesia (Spanish only)

Transito Synagogue and Jewish museum

• Distance from previous stop: 4 min. walk
• How to get there : walk down the stairs and follow Reyes Católicos road.
• Why you should visit:
• Duration: 5 mins (outside), 45 mins (full visit)
• Discount: 5 Euros including El Greco Museum, free on weekends from Saturdays at 14h and on the following dates: April 8th, May 18th, October 12th and December 6th. All of June and July 2020 is free, too.
• Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, free with tourist bracelet
• Tip: If you don’t want to pay extra, pick the Synagogue that makes the most sense to you. Both of them are very pretty inside, but the Transit Synagogue has a very interesting museum on Jewish history in Spain. Closed on Mondays.
• Website: http://www.culturaydeporte.gob.es/msefardi/en/museo.html

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

• Distance from previous stop: 5 min. walk
• How to get there: continue on Reyes Católicos road
• Why you should visit: It is one of the most beautiful Gothic-style temples in Spain.
• Duration: 10 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
• Discount: no
• Palace of Cava (Dukes of Maqueda)
• you can walk through the narrow streets of Jewish Quarters on your way to the Royal School of Noble Girls (included in tourist bracelet)
• Tip: closed 14 -15h.
• Website: https://toledomonumental.com/san-juan (Spanish only)

San Román Square

• How to get there : continue on Reyes Católicos road
• Why you should visit: San Román church, Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture and statue of Garcilaso de la Vega
• Duration: 15 mins (outside), 30 mins (full visit including Museum)
• Price: square stroll is free, Museum inside church 2 euros.
• Included in tourist bracelet: no, but nearby attraction does
• Discount: n/a
• Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture inside San Román Church (cost of 2 euros, free on Wednesday afternoons, Sundays and on May 18th and 31st.)
• follow one of the robbed alleys down to Padre Juan de Mariana square to visit the Jesuit Church. It’s free with the tourist bracelet and there is a nice viewpoint of Toledo Old Town from its tower.

San Vicente Square

• Distance from previous stop: 2 min. walk
• How to get there : follow the narrow street behind Garcilaso’s statue and turn right onto Esteban Illán road.
• Why you should visit: San Vicente church is a repurposed church that serves as an exhibition hall in the present. If it is open you can check it out.
• Duration: 10 mins (outside look)
• Price: free
• robbed alley with a gate
• Alfileritos road, plenty of tapas bars
• Our Sorrowful Mother (aka Our Lady of the Little Pins) shrine, with a very cool legend you can read here
• Tip: If interested in the current exhibit at San Vicente, come right after the visit to the Cathedral and continue your self-guided tour counterclockwise. They are only open 10 to 14h.
• Website: https://cultura.castillalamancha.es/patrimonio/catalogo-patrimonio-cultural/iglesia-de-san-vicente-de-toledo (Spanish only) Scroll all the way to the bottom and you will find current and future events on the bottom left corner.

Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

• Duration: 5 mins. (outside), 15 mins max (full visit)
• Gate of Valmadrón (cool photos with Mosque in the background and beautiful viewpoint)
• Gate del Sol go there on your way to the next stop
• Tip: closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
• Website: https://toledomonumental.com/cristo-luz

Puerta nueva de Bisagra (Bisagra Gate)

• How to get there : go through Valmadrón Gate, and turn right whenever possible, then turn left on Real del Arrabal road and continue straight ahead.
• Why you should visit: the biggest entrance gate to the old city of Toledo. Very impressive
• Duration: 10 mins
• Included in tourist bracelet: n/a
• tourist information office nearby
• Tip: if you feel like you can walk more, you can walk towards San Martín bridge on Paseo de Recaredo, a very pleasant walk if you are not too tired. Cross the bridge and find the bus stop that takes you to the Valley lookout.

Mirador del Valle

• Distance by bus: around 15 minutes
• How to get there : bus line L71, bus stop “Alfonso VI (Junto a Fuente)” on Paseo Merchán, near the tourist information office. Click here for timetables .
• Why you should visit: greatest view of Toledo Old Town
• Duration 15 mins or longer
• Price: free/bus ticket 1.40 euros one way
• Ermita del Valle (only Spanish)
• you can hike up to the lookout if you feel energetic.
• For best shots go in the early morning or before sunset
• Have a drink at the nearby bar while you wait for the golden hour to take your perfect shot
• Bus passes by every hour, for more accurate information, ask the bus driver
• Buy a bus card for 5 euros at the bus station (Unauto office) with 7 trips automatically added. One way trip costs 0.64 cents if you do that.
• When you get back, remember you can stop at San Martin Bridge, Puerta de la Bisagra and Plaza Zocodover, so that you don’t have to walk that much after such a long day.

San Martín Bridge or Alcázar

• Distance from previous stop: 10 to 20 minutes
• How to get there : hop on the bus on the same stop it left you at the lookout, stop either at San Martín Bridge stop to cross the bridge or Plaza Zocodover to see the Alcazar lit up at night.
• Why you should visit: both are iconic spots in the city
• Duration: 10 mins, just enough to cross the bridge or walk around the Alcázar
• Discount: Military museum in Alcázar is currently free
• Santa Cruz art gallery near Zocodover square
• city outdoor escalator near Zocodover square
• if you absolutely want to visit the Military Museum, head towards the Alcázar right after your visit to the Cathedral.
• You can hop off the bus at the bridge ad then walk towards the Alcázar (30 mins)

Final thoughts

It takes a little over 2 hours to do the walking part of this itinerary excluding lunch stop, bus ride to the lookout and time inside premises. Your time at the lookout would add 1.5 hours to the itinerary, and if you decide to visit all the monuments and museums mentioned it would take between 3 and 4 hours. Altogether, the full itinerary would take over 8 hours to complete , which is a very dense and satisfying visit. In my opinion, this is a perfect itinerary to spend one day in Toledo.

Disclaimers:

This post has been written in July 2020 during what we commonly call ¨the new normality¨during the COVID crisis. Travel experiences during this period of time are very different from normal circumstances therefore:

• some businesses, museums and other tourist attractions may not be open when you visit and opening times and rest days may change.
• current free activities during the ¨new normality¨ may not be free in the future
• Availability to enter certain places may vary depending on demand
• websites attached are mostly in Spanish , but I think they are useful for you to check out the pictures and give you an idea of what the place looks like and if you are interested in going inside. Hopefully, google translate will help you out too.
• You can check this Castilla La Mancha tourism website for extra info in English, but I have noticed that the prices are outdated.

Similar Posts

25 ways to travel from home, including my personal experience

39 incredible ethical animal experiences around the world

La importancia de explorar el lugar donde vives…

All you need to know about Mongolian names and their interesting meanings

Cafe Lohas, a restaurant that cares

Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre, a hidden gem in Fremantle

37 comments.

You are so right in that you can’t see it all. I had allocated a day but needed a lot more. I wish I had your itinerary as it is a good route to take and the timings are helpful. My favourite parts of Toledo were visiting the Transito Signagogue and some of the museums.

I wish i had done my homework before my trip :). Transito synagogue was one of my favourites too, Spanish Jewish history would be hardly known if it weren’t for places like Toledo or Córdoba.

I spent a short day only in Toledo and didn’t get to see half of the things on your itinerary. It is such a gorgeous city. I hope to go back and spend more time there. The tourist bracelet is such a good idea and well worth the 10 euros.

Had I planned better, i probably would have gone for the tourist bracelet, too.

I’ve wanted to visit Toledo for a while now! I hope to be able to go one day soon!

Tash // A Girl with a View

I hope you can visit soon! It’s a great city!

Toledo sounds so interesting to me. I would love to visit. I especially would love to see the El Greco paintings in the churches and museum. I agree that one day sounds to short on time. Thanks for all the great info!

You’re welcome! I am sure you would like Toledo!

What a gorgeous spot. I’m dying to go to Spain, I cannot wait for the pandemic to be over so I can go.

I know! Hopefully we can all travel soon 🙂

Wow, so many great stuff to do and see! I´ve never been in Toledo and have no idea what to expect! But it looks like a great place to stay for a couple of days and explore! Would love to do so one day!

I didn’t know much about Toledo before. I’ll need to take a drive there some time!

We had a three night stay in Madrid I decided to take a day trip on the train to Toledo. It was a gorgeous sunny day and we had a great day exploring the little couple the back streets. We found a fabulous little place for lunch away from the main tourist squares that served delicious Spanish food. We didn’t go in to any of the buildings because the architecture I’m just wondering around The street was enough for us I loved our day there

Love how organized this article is! I have never been to Spain, but definitely do want to do in the future. Great content! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Sounds like an amazing experience! This is a great location for a day trip and find less touristy things to do. Thanks so much for sharing

I have seen some lovely pictures of Teledo on Instagram and it looks like a gem place to visit. I like how you provided all the information for a day’s visit. I’m interested in the Architecture and like you said, planning ahead will save time on the day.

Toledo is one of my favourite cities in Spain to visit! Great article!

I have never been to Toledo, but I would love to especially after seeing the photo from the Mirador del Valle viewpoint.

Toledo is a really lovely city worth to visit. I have been there twice and every time I love it even more. So characteristic! Really great itinerary!

It looks like a charming place to visit… Love your article and can’t wait to check it out myself 🙂

Loved reading your post! I studied in abroad in Toledo so it takes me back to my semester there. I loved hiking up to the Mirador del Valle. It does offer a great view of the city.

My biggest problem is that I want to see everything. I make an impossible plan but in the end, it never works 🙁 Your plan is amazing! Thank you for sharing!

Toledo look like a great day trip to take! The view of the city is beautiful, you itinierary and all the details are great to plan a trip there! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing!! Toledo looks gorgeous. Spain is next on my list! Saving this post for later :)!!

Toledo looks like such a beautiful city to visit. I’d really love to visit the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, it looks amazing. Thank you for sharing.

The Monastery is beautiful! Hopefully, you can visit some time soon. 🙂

Great post! I love Spanish cities and can’t wait to be back in Spain. Toledo seems so worth it, will check it out next time!

i spent a day in Toledo years ago and didn’t get to half these places lol. There is so much to see there! I’d love to go back for an overnight trip, especially so I could walk around before all the tourist crowds show up.

I would totally recommend an overnight stay and walk on the empty streets of the city.

I lover Spain! I can’t wait to go back and will defiantly be going to Toledo when I Do!

Toledo looks like such a lovely place! I didn’t know much about it before reading your post! I think the tourist bracelet is a brilliant idea! What a great way to make the most of seeing the some of the wonderful attractions! Thanks for the great guide!

Wow! Such a detailed guide. I didn’t know there’s so much to do in Toledo and I hope to be able to check it out soon.

Adding in the walking tour to this itinerary is super helpful. I always like to have a guide to stick to when you only have a day to see it all. Great post and Toledo looks like a beautiful place to visit x

Toledo is one of the few Spanish cities I still haven’t made it to! It looks like there is loads to do – I’ll def plan to spend more than a day. And what a good deal the bracelet is – I don’t think I’ve ever seen one so cheap!

It really is a good deal, and yes, there is plenty to do and see in Toledo.

This post is a timely read as I am going to Spain at the end of May for 3 months and plan to do a day trip to Toledo from Madrid.

I hope the itinerary helps! It’s quite intense but if you are fast paces like me, you will enjoy it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Take a Magical Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

Few small cities can claim to be as beautiful or as historically fascinating as Toledo–and as it is located less than an hour away from Madrid, is it any surprise that taking a Madrid to Toledo day trip is a fabulous way to spend a day in Spain?

More than 2000 years old and standing proudly on a hill overlooking the surrounding region, Toledo is a postcard-worthy example of a preserved medieval city, with a history that involves contributions from the Visigoths, Moors, and of course, Spaniards, among others.

Toledo was briefly an independent state, briefly the capital of Spain, and is always a city where many cultures come to meld and clash, earning it the nickname “The City of Three Cultures” for the prominent participation of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faiths in the making of modern Toledo.

Want to take a day trip to Toledo from Madrid to explore this fascinating city?

We definitely recommend it. We adore Toledo and have visited multiple times–with more visits to come in the future!

Here’s how to spend one day in Toledo–and how to get there.

Table of Contents

Do you need a tour to visit Toledo from Madrid?

The best things to do on a toledo day trip, how to travel from madrid to toledo, tips for spending one day in toledo, read more about visiting spain.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

One of the most common questions about planning a day trip to Toledo from Madrid is whether or not it’s better to book a tour or travel independently.

The answer is simple: you don’t need a tour, but depending on your travel style, you may want one!

For independent travelers, booking an organized Toledo day trip is definitely not necessary.

Toledo lies a mere 35 minutes (plus a steep climb once you arrive) from Madrid by train , or an hour by bus, making it a logistically simple day trip to pull off on your own (we’ll cover this in more detail below).

If, however, you’d like to enjoy a guided tour of Toledo during your visit, this popular day trip is a great option that will keep your travel easy, allowing you to relax and enjoy the city.

One other reason to book a tour?

If you want to combine a half-day trip to Toledo with a wine tasting like this or a visit to Segovia like this , the benefits of leaving the organization in the hands of experts increase enormously.

Book your combined day trip to Toledo today!

Step inside some of Toledo’s stunning houses of worship.

From the opulence of the gothic Toledo Cathedral to the Synagogue of El Tránsito to the baroque Church of San Ildefonso to the Mosque of Christ of the Light to so many more–seriously, Toledo has an overwhelming number of religious buildings for a city of its size–there are plenty of historical masterpieces to seek out during your one day in Toledo.

If you have to choose only a single structure to step inside as part of your one day Toledo itinerary, definitely make it the Toledo Cathedral.

Like many Spanish cathedrals, the interior is coated in a magnificent explosion of gold , making it visually striking, and it’s absolutely gigantic–you’ll need to spend much longer here than you do visiting the average European church!

As one of the most famous and beautiful cathedrals in Spain (which is, as you can imagine, an extremely tough competition), its interior is–if anything–more incredible than its exterior.

Snap photos from the viewpoints outside of town.

Seeking out viewpoints is one of our personal favorite things to do in Toledo, and it’s a must-do on a day trip to Toledo!

B etween the beautiful medieval town center located high on a hill and the Tagus River curving gently around it at the base, Toledo is absolutely one of the most beautiful cities in Spain .

It takes a bit of extra effort to get across the river during your Toledo day trip, but it is absolutely worth prioritizing.

If you’re planning to visit Toledo independently as opposed to booking a guided day trip like this , the easiest way to ensure you get the best views of the city is to sign up for a Hop On/Hop Off bus tour .

We rarely recommend buying these tours, but we personally used one on our first trip to Toledo and thought the views alone more than justified the price!

Book your Hop On/Hop Off bus tour of Toledo today!

Check out the Puente de San Martín and the Puente de Alcántara .

These two beautiful footbridges are perfect for admiring views of the Tagus River (which incidentally continues all the way down the Iberian peninsula to our former home city of Lisbon ).

Both are definitely worth stopping by during your Toledo day trip !

Though the Puente de San Martín dates to the Middle Ages and the Puente de Alcántara technically dates to the Roman times, they’ve naturally both been repaired and rebuilt a few times along the way.

Visit the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes.

Built in the 15th century, this beautiful monastery is best known today for its stunning cloisters.

In addition to beauty, it has an impressive history!

T he Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes was built by the Spanish monarchs for two purposes, the first being sentimental (in honor of the birth of their son), and the second military-focused (in honor of winning a major battle).

Walk through the Puerta de Bisagra.

Toledo’s grand entrance gate is the perfect place to enter the historic center of the city!

With its medieval towers and imposing stone gate, it’s an unmissable sight during one day in Toledo.

Wander the tiny, medieval streets of Toledo.

Whether you want to seek out a cozy cafe, find an offbeat museum, or simply enjoy the walk, there’s no doubt that spending a couple of hours wandering around the historic center semi-aimlessly is an excellent way to spend part of your day trip to Toledo.

Looking for a memorable Toledo souvenir?

Toledo has been known for its armor production for centuries–so if you’ve ever dreamed of splurging on a sword, this is the place to do so!

Admire the Alcázar of Toledo.

Dating to the 10th century as a fortress (or if you want to reach back even further in history, the site itself was relevant as early as the 3rd), the Alcázar remains one of the best things to see in Toledo.

Over the centuries, the Alcázar ‘s purpose has shifted along with its walls: a brief home of Spanish monarchs, the home of widowed Spanish queens, and a military outpost are just a few of the iterations of the Alcázar of Toledo.

Today, the Alcázar of Toledo houses the city’s Army Museum, which features historic weaponry along with other exhibits focused on Spain’s military history.

The high-speed train, AKA fast train, is arguably the simplest (and is definitely the fastest) way to travel from Madrid to Toledo independently.

The journey takes around 35 minutes and costs a little under 15 Euro each way.

Note that with this option, you will have a bit of a steep climb (and/or taxi ride) to contend with to travel from the Toledo train station to the historic center!

Shop train tickets to Toledo from Madrid today!

Bus journeys are also available for your day trip from Madrid to Toledo, and take a bit under an hour.

However, the bus is a bit cheaper than the train, and as an added bonus, the bus station is a bit closer to Toledo’s historic center than the train station (so requires less uphill walking and/or a cheaper taxi ride once you arrive).

This is how we chose to visit Toledo for the first time, way back at the beginning of our round-the-world trip !

Shop bus tickets between Madrid and Toledo today!

Don’t want to worry about the hassle of getting to and from Toledo, and want to ensure you can easily visit the beautiful viewpoints outside of town without dealing with logistics, or even combine a day trip to Toledo with a visit to Segovia ?

Toledo day trips from Madrid are an excellent value– this one is popular and gets great reviews–and are an excellent way to enjoy all the benefits of one day in Toledo without any of the stress.

Book your day trip to Toledo  today!

Most people traveling from Madrid to Toledo won’t have a rental car with them, but on the off chance you do, driving to Toledo is a solid option as well .

There are several places to park outside the historic center of Toledo, and having a car with you will allow you to visit the viewpoints outside of town independently.

This option works best if you’re visiting Toledo as part of a larger road trip in Spain, as you won’t need a car in either Madrid or Toledo.

Shop rental cars in Spain today!

Arrive as early as possible!

Our biggest regret from our own first day trip to Toledo is that we got too late of a start.

H ad we forced ourselves awake and onto the bus a bit earlier, we would have loved to spend another few hours in town (admittedly, we had a good excuse–we were quite jetlagged at the time!).

Since Toledo is among the most popular day trips from Madrid , it understandably gets crowded in the middle of the day.

Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to walk uphill.

This is especially true if you arrive via bus or train and don’t want to pay for either a taxi or a Hop On/Hop Off bus ticket to reach the center of town.

You won’t be able to see it all, so go slow and savor it.

Despite its small size, Toledo has dozens of tourist attractions that would theoretically be worth checking out given enough time.

F rom houses of worship to small museums to plenty of restaurants and shops worth checking out, one day in Toledo certainly isn’t enough time to see it all… but it’s definitely enough to enjoy every second.

On a Madrid to Toledo day trip, we recommend picking out 3-4 things to do in Toledo that you absolutely want to see, and other than that, kicking back and seeing where the day takes you.

Try to see the city from across the Tagus–it’s worth the effort.

The views of Toledo from across the Tagus, looking every part of the stunning medieval city that it is, are truly not to be missed.

It’s a bit of a hassle to get out there unless you happen to drive yourself to Toledo, but it’s 100% worth the hassle.

We enjoyed the view on our first visit by taking a Hop On/Hop Off bus tour that included the view as one of the stops (we snapped these photos with Ranger on a later trip where we had a car).

W e very rarely purchase those tours, but this was the perfect time to do so and we were completely satisfied with the choice !

Shop Hop On/Hop Off bus tours in Toledo today!

Planning a trip to Spain soon and ready to learn more?

We’d love to help!

You can browse all of our Spain blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate 10 Days in Spain Itinerary (+ Travel Tips)
• What to Do in Madrid at Night: 15 Exciting Ideas
• The Ultimate Andalucia Road Trip (Detailed Southern Spain Itinerary!)
• 25 of the Best Coastal + Beach Towns in Spain
• The Ultimate One Day in Seville Itinerary (+ Tips!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Maddy's Avenue

By: Melanie Gordon (Contributor) · Last Updated: February 13, 2024

How to Take the Perfect Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

Spending a few days in Spain’s capital city (of tapas)? Then, a day trip to Toledo is a must . Just one hour from Madrid, you’ll encounter the rich historic legacy , awe-inspiring landscape, and fresh air of Toledo. 

Woven with a tapestry of culture, Toledo boasts fabled views of the Tagus River , medieval architectural wonders aplenty , towering stone bridges , and impressive fine art collections . Known as Spain’s “Imperial City,” Toledo has been crowned a UNESCO Historic City .

From the moment I spotted Toledo, I was transported back to Roman times. You, too, may feel as though you’ll cross cobblestone paths with a sword-wielding knight in this charming, ancient city – which will wind its way into your heart. (Literally. The Old Town’s streets are seriously convoluted!)

In this 1-day Toledo itinerary, you’ll discover everything you need to know for the perfect day trip to Toledo from Madrid.

Between Toledo’s must-see landmarks and galleries, the best spots to eat (obviously!), and transportation tips, I’ve got you covered!

Table of Contents

1. Toledo is a Nature Escape

2. getting there is quick & easy, 3. toledo is immensely historic, 4. it’s a city of superlatives, high-speed train, guided day trip, quick things to know for your toledo day trip, 1. take a guided tour , 2. puente de alcántara, 3. puente de san martín, 4. tour the jewish quarter, 5. monastery of san juan de los reyes, 6. synagogue of el transito, 7. synagogue of santa maría la blanca, 8. alcazar of toledo, 9. greco museum, 10. church of san ildefonso, 11. museo de santa cruz, 12. the primatial cathedral of saint mary of toledo (catedral primada), 13. puerta de bisagra (gate of bisagra), 14. discover toledo’s steel legacy, 15. sample toledo’s local flavors, what to pack for toledo, spain, quick tips for toledo, spain, toledo, spain travel faqs.

4 Reasons to Take a Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

Since there’s no shortage of things to do in Madrid , you may be wondering: Is it really worth forfeiting a whole, precious day in Madrid to explore Toledo?

Taking a day trip to Toledo from Madrid is one of the most popular things to do while visiting the Spanish capital – and for good reason!

(Well, actually, there are four good reasons).

If you’re like me, a stint in nature is essential after a few days in the city. Toledo’s serene environment is a calm pause from all the honking and hustle of Madrid.

Fun fact: Did you know that Madrid is the second most populous city in the E.U. after Berlin ?

Toledo is only about an hour away from Madrid by car, with stunning scenery along the way. Via high-speed train, you can reach Toledo in just half an hour ! More on how to get there later…

When Toledo fell as the capital of Spain to the reign of King Alfonso VI, the Christain conquest of Muslim Spain marked a key turning point in Spanish history. In addition to being the former capital of Spain until 1560 , Toledo is famous for being the “city of three cultures,” since the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors have roots in this medieval town. That said, the city’s history actually goes back at least 2,000 years !

This “city of superlatives” claims some fun titles. For example, Toledo’s Cathedral is home to Spain’s largest bell. Another superlative? Toledo has the most confusing streets in the country!

Is a Day Trip to Toledo Worth It?

To give it to you straight: Yes. A Toledo day trip is worth it!

For all these reasons and more, a self-guided or group Toledo day trip is one of the most popular things to do when you’re in Madrid!

On this Majesty of Medieval Spain Tour , you’ll visit Toledo AND Segovia – a beautiful, historic city that’s famous for its marvelous architecture (i.e. the Roman Aqueduct, Alcázar de Segovia (an impressive medieval castle), and the Gothic-style Cathedral of Segovia). Click here to book it!

Alternatively, if you’re after a full-day trip to Toledo only, then opt for this Full-Day Guided Tour of Toledo . Click here to book it!

How to Get to Toledo, Spain from Madrid

Two weeks traveling under the Spanish sun, combined with an early next-morning flight, left me reconsidering my self-guided day trip to Toledo. Let’s be real, travel can ( often ) be exhausting.

Luckily, visiting Toledo is easy, and doesn’t require a long bus ride or an expensive taxi. Let’s go over the three best transportation options for your perfect Toledo day trip!

RELATED READING: 1 Day in Madrid Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Madrid in 24 Hours

Fast, economical, and spacious, the 30-minute train to Toledo from Madrid (operated by Renfe) is the best option. Snag an espresso and pastry while you wait to board your train at Madrid’s main train station, Estación de Atocha, and check out their luscious tropical garden of 500+ plant species! Click here to look up train timetables and book your tickets.

Tip: Toledo is a commuter and tourist route. Seats on the train will fill up! Buy your train ticket early so you don’t have to wait for the next one… Like I did!

Taking a taxi is a simple and hassle-free way to arrive in Toledo. There’s no set price, but you can expect to pay around $100 USD for a one-way trip to Toledo, which is about an hour’s drive from the Spanish capital. Click here to arrange your private taxi.

Prefer a knowledgeable tour guide and think-free transport? Book a guided tour from Madrid and relax knowing you’ll see all the essential sites, monuments, and viewpoints, while your guide points out important history and hidden gems along the way.

Hot tip: Group tours are a great way to meet people if you’re a solo traveler!

Here are the three best guided options: 

• Toledo, Segovia, Optional Avila: Majesty of Medieval Spain Tour
• Private Tour to Toledo from Madrid with Guide and Private Driver
• Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Toledo or Segovia with Optional Transport from Madrid

With so much history and heritage, there’s more to see in Toledo than can be truly appreciated in a single day . If a day is all you have, it’s smart to arrive early and leave late.

Or, if you can swing it, stay the night to give yourself even more time . If I were you, I’d stay at the Parador de Toledo for its magnificent hilltop views… Or the Hotel Boutique Adolfo , housed in a centuries-old building in the romantic Plaza de Zocodover.

The most important tip is to be present to the beauty and history of this quaint city.

Oh, and do wear comfortable shoes!

What to Do in Toledo in 1 Day: Toledo Day Trip Itinerary

My guilty pleasure when exploring a new city is using the Sightseeing Red Bus Tour . Hopping on and off the bus as you please, while learning all of the historical tidbits is the best of both worlds!

Click here to reserve your ticket for Toledo’s Hop-On Hop-Off Bus , and climb aboard your chariot (top deck, of course!) as soon as you arrive at Toledo’s train station. The ride into town is beautiful, passing Toledano countryside and thick veins of the Tagus River.

Conveniently, the bus’s first stops are at two key vantage points of the “Imperial City:” the Mirador del Valle and the Puente de Alcántara (Alcántara Bridge). Also conveniently, the bus picks up in key squares such as Plaza Zocodover, the Plaza Mayor. Click here to book your sightseeing bus!

If you prefer to explore Toledo via walking tour instead, then go for this Toledo Private Tour with a Licensed Local Guide . Click here to book it!

Of course, seeing the grand Alcantara Bridge is a must on your Toledo to-do list. This monolithic bridge dates from 104 A.D. , a sturdy Roman construction lending access across the Tagus River and into Toledo’s Old Town.

Snap a few photos as you cross, and head in the direction of the massive medieval Castle of San Servando. (Not to tour! Believe it or not, it’s a hostel!)

Puente de San Martin is another gorgeous bridge with incredible views of Toledo, just beyond the Puente de Alcántara. My favorite view in Toledo! A short walk up the path, just outside the city walls, can lead you right into the old Jewish Quarter – which is home to many of the city’s most important historical gems!

P.S. There is a zip-line adventure which floats you across the rushing Tagus River, parallel with the Puente de San Martín!

Toledo’s prominent Jewish community called this quiet quarter home during the Middle Ages. Narrow streets, impressive synagogues, art galleries, and historic significance lie around every corner.

For an in-depth understanding of Shepardic Jewish heritage in Toledo – and their harmonious existence with Toledo’s Muslim and Christian communities – book this Guided Walking Tour of the Jewish Quarter . You can opt for transportation to/from Madrid.

Click here to book it!

Its medieval Gothic architecture, intricate design from top to bottom, and center cloister garden make the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes a must-see when you visit Toledo’s Jewish Quarter.

Also known as the Synagogue of Samuel Leví, the ancient Synagogue of El Transito houses plenty of priceless art and artifacts, and opportunities to learn about Jewish heritage (at the National Museum of Sephardic Culture).

Make sure to visit while in the Jewish Quarter!

Another must-see on your day trip to Toledo from Madrid? 

The three cultures of Toledo are reflected in this small synagogue which was built in the Mudéjar architectural style, a combination of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian architectural elements.

Built in 1180 , the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca (Synagogue of Saint Mary the White), in the Jewish Quarter, is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe !

The stately structure atop the highest part of Toledo is the famous Alcazar, home to a grand library, informative military museum, and splendid terrace.

If you’re a history buff, give yourself at least one hour to soak up the exhibitions of the Alcazar; there’s loads of information on Spain’s military history as well as the general historical significance of Toledo!

There’s also a cute cafe at the top where you can grab a coffee to sip on while enjoying sweeping views of Toledo.

I didn’t get a chance to visit, so I can’t personally vouch for this museum!

While you’re in the Jewish Quarter, check out the Greco Museum.

Greco is an exceptional late-Renaissance painter with a highly personal and evocative style. The museum itself isn’t so large, but Greco’s art demands your attention.

Take a rest in the garden on your way out and see some of his sculptures as well.

This catholic church is beautiful, like most churches in Spain, but the real draw is the view from the bell towers 50 meters high!

The view of Toledo from the top of the Church of San Ildefonso is stunning, and well worth the 2.50 euros.

Toledo is a great spot for history lovers, and so is the Museum of Santa Cruz , which is housed in an ancient hospital in Toledo’s historic center.

Inside you’ll find a rich collection of art, including many Greco works, as well as archeological artifacts, decorative arts, and four courtyards. 

My self-guided Toledo day trip ended up too heavy on museums, which left me with a choice, miss the second-largest cathedral in Spain, or miss my train back to Madrid. Don’t make the same mistake I did!

Stained-glass-sifted sunlight pours into the Toledo Cathedral during the day, highlighting magnificent Spanish wood-carving art, ornate gold-leaf design, and precious works of art.

Much history has passed through the monumental city gate of Toledo, which has stood proudly since the 10th century.

You can snap a photo of this epic entrance arch and take in the grand Moorish architecture of “Bisagra Antigua,” the oldest city gate in Toledo.

Toledo is the epicenter of Spain’s metalsmithing. Said to have a “soul of iron,” the uniquely hard yet malleable alloy of Toledo steel is famous.

Swords, knives, blades, and daggers are all for purchase, handmade in Toledo. If that piques your interest, you can send a fancy Damascus sword home from Spain!

Think: big bowls of sopa de ajo (garlic soup), carcamusas (Spanish chili), and perdiz estofada (slow-cooked partridge) on a cold winter’s eve in the Middle Ages.

Though Toledo’s palette has expanded from these dishes, these are some classics you should sample on your day trip to Toledo. To get your sweet tooth, a colorful marzipan treat, since some of the most decadent Spanish marzipan is crafted in this beautiful city.

Put La Abadía Cervecería Artesana , Restaurante Adolfo , and Taberna el Botero on your radar.

Taking a Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo: Final Thoughts

Create your own history along medieval cobblestoned streets with a day trip to historic Toledo day trip from Madrid.

As I mentioned, there is SO MUCH to see and do in Toledo that spending the night is the most ideal situation. It’s impossible to do everything on this list in one day, so pick and choose your favorites , or stay longer! (At the Parador de Toledo or the Hotel Boutique Adolfo !)

Either way, immerse yourself in the incredible and ancient legacy of this UNESCO Historic City. From the Toledo Cathedral and the Old Town wall’s Gate of Bisagra, to the El Greco Museum and El Transito Synagogue in the Old Jewish Quarter, a trip to Madrid would not complete without a visit to Toledo!

The season of your visit to Toledo will help determine what you need to pack!

Of course, summer is very warm in Spain, so prepare with loose cool clothing. But in this part of Spain the winters can be quite cold. Always bring a beautiful coat in winter!

Here are a few top tips of what to wear in Toledo:

• Wool coat : During the colder months a beautiful wool coat is essential for style and practicality. You will fit in with the locals with this one .
• Comfortable boot s: As expected, you’ll walk a lot, so opt for a comfortable but stylish boot that you’ve worn in. You can’t go wrong with a smart Chelsea boot, like these . In the summer I love a good sandal like this .
• Hat , scarf , and gloves : For the winter you absolutely need these to keep warm
• Floaty dress : In the summer opt for a long floaty dress so you stay cool, and bring a light scarf so you are always prepared to enter religious sites and cover your shoulders.
• Sunscreen : Nothing spoils your trip (and your photos!) more than sunburn. Remember to prepare with a good, natural sunscreen and stay protected. Also, a good idea to bring a sunhat in the summer.
• Reusable water bottle : Remember to keep hydrated during your adventures; it can’t all be wine and coffee all the time! Bring a reusable water bottle so you can keep topped up.
• Money belt : Just to be extra safe from pickpockets
• Tote bag : For those souvenirs and treasures found on your travels
• Travel insurance : As with any trip, you should ALWAYS purchase travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. I’ve had my fair share of travel mishaps! 
• HOTEL : I use this website for scoring amazing deals on accommodation worldwide. Find amazing deals on accommodation here .
• HOSTELWORLD : If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
• VACATION RENTA L : I use this site for finding the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway. 
• TRAVEL INSURANCE : Never go on a trip without travel insurance! It isn’t worth the risk if something goes wrong.
• GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS : Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator, which also works with local tour operators. Search them all here .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS : Get great deals on flights using my favorite flight fare aggregator .
• TRAVEL GEAR : A collection of all of my must-have travel gear are all listed here . Most important to remember is comfortable shoes and a scarf to use when visiting religious sites.
• CAR RENTAL : If you are taking a longer road trip book car rental in advance here for the best deals.

Yes, Toledo is worth a day trip from Madrid. Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the Toledo Cathedral, El Transito Synagogue, and El Greco museum, to name a few tourist attractions in Toledo. This city dates back to at least two thousand years ago, which means there’s a lot to discover – from a Roman palace and bridges to ancient religious sites!

To visit Toledo from the Spanish capital of Madrid, you can take a bus, car, or train. The 30-minute train ride on Renfe is the fastest way to get to Toledo from Madrid’s Atocha station. You can also take a group guided tour , or a private guided tour , so you can soak up the city’s incredible history!

Yes, there is a high-speed train to the small city of Toledo from Madrid’s Atocha station. You can buy tickets online or at the railway station for about $14. Follow this link for timetables and tickets.

Why choose if Toledo or Segovia is better? On this day trip from Madrid , you can visit both of these beautiful cities.

Yes, you can easily tour Toledo on your own. Choose from transportation services such as bus, taxi, or train to travel from Madrid to Toledo, then you can walk or take a bus to Toledo’s Old Town. The city is small and full of fascinating museums, centuries-old historical sites, and stunning hilltop views overlooking the Tagus River.

You need at least one day in Toledo to see historic sites like the Alcázar de Toledo, Toledo Cathedral, Castillo de San Servando, the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, and the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca.

Yes, Toledo, Spain is very walkable. The streets are small, and so is the town itself, but you will likely walk a ton in Toledo! So don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes.

One reason Toledo is so famous is because it is the former capital of Spain! This City of Three Cultures is well known for being the town where Jews, Muslims, and Christians all coexisted. It’s no wonder Toledo is a world heritage site!

These are the three best day trips from Madrid to Toledo!  – Toledo, Segovia, Optional Avila: Majesty of Medieval Spain Tour – Private Tour to Toledo from Madrid with Guide and Private Driver – Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Toledo or Segovia with Optional Transport from Madrid

SAVE THIS POST ON PINTEREST FOR LATER!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. When you click through a link on this page and make a valid purchase, Maddy’s Avenue may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We only recommend products/services that we believe in and know you will love too. Your support enables us to continue making helpful travel content. Thank you for reading, and thank you for your support!

Join the adventure.

Be the first to know when new travels or recipes are published! Plus, gain FREE access to my Know-Before-You-Go Travel Guide!

About Melanie Gordon (Contributor)

Melanie contributes travel writing and photos to Maddy's Avenue. Melanie began traveling after life threw her a major curveball in the form of a condo fire. Losing everything (including her beloved cat, Moby) presented her with the opportunity to turn a tragedy into a catalyst for growth. With nothing to lose, she set out for a solo “soul searching” journey. Turns out, this curveball set her path straight in the direction of her destiny. Through work like website design, travel writing, and sharing her passion of teaching yoga and hula hooping, she’s found the life she’s always envisioned. Follow along for more of Melanie’s travel writing, and reach out through her website or Instagram (livinginflowco.com & @livinginflowco).

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cholula, Mexico Travel Guide: BEST Things to Do, See & Eat in Cholula!

Be the first to know when I publish new recipes or travel guides. Plus, gain FREE access to my Know-Before-You-Go Travel Guide!

Maddy's Avenue is here to inspire you to live a bold life : to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Learn more...

• About Maddy’s Avenue
• Terms & Disclosure
• Destinations
• Adventure Travel
• Digital Nomad Travel
• Luxury Travel
• Foodie Guides

Affiliate Disclosure

Maddy's Avenue shares affiliate links to recommend products we love and earn commissions from purchases you make. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more...

Copyright © 2024 Maddy's Avenue · Theme by 17th Avenue

You cannot copy content of this page.

Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo: All you need to know

Are you planning a Toledo day trip from Madrid ? Toledo is a captivating city located just a short distance from the Spanish capital. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Toledo offers a perfect escape from the bustling streets of Madrid.

Having visited Toledo multiple times, in this article I will help you to make the most of your day trip to Toledo, highlighting the must-visit attractions, local cuisine, and much more. Keep on reading!

Table of contents

Is it worth a Toledo day trip from Madrid?

How to get to toledo from madrid, exploring the best tourist attractions in toledo, discovering the city’s best viewpoints, explore toledo with a guided tour, trying traditional toledo cuisine, shopping in toledo, what is the best time of year to visit toledo, can toledo be visited as a day trip from madrid, what is the best way to travel from madrid to toledo, is it possible to visit the most important attractions in toledo in a single day.

Yes! A Toledo day trip from Madrid is definitely worth it!

In my opinion, Toledo is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Spain. Moreover, due to its proximity to Madrid and the convenience of transportation options , you can get to the city in only 35 minutes.

During the day trip, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, wander through narrow cobblestone streets, and discover iconic landmarks such as Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar.

The culinary scene is another highlight, with traditional dishes that tantalize your taste buds. You can also shop for unique souvenirs, including damascene jewelry, ceramics, and swords, which Toledo is renowned for .

Toledo has something to offer to every visitor. So, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this captivating city during your stay in Madrid.

Toledo is conveniently situated approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) south of Madrid , making it easily accessible for a day trip. There are several transportation options available to reach Toledo from the capital of Spain:

• By Train : Renfe, Spain’s national train operator, provides regular high-speed train services from Madrid’s Atocha station to Toledo train station . The journey takes around 35 minutes and the round-trip ticket price is approximately 22 euros.
• By Bus : If you prefer traveling by bus, the buses to Toledo serviced by the Alsa company depart from the Plaza Elíptica Station. The direct bus ride takes approximately one hour and the round-trip ticket price is around 11 euros.
• By Car : The journey from Madrid to Toledo by car usually takes about one hour, depending on traffic. The route is straightforward, and you can follow the A-42 highway southbound. However, take into account that accessing and driving in Toledo can be challenging, and parking in the historic center is mostly reserved for residents.

What to do in Toledo on a one-day trip from Madrid

From exploring the city’s iconic attractions to savoring its delicious cuisine, strolling through its historic streets, and indulging in souvenir shopping, there are numerous activities to do on your Toledo day trip from Madrid. These are, in my opinion, the best things to do in Toledo in one day:

Upon arriving in Toledo, you will be greeted by the city’s enchanting historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These are the 10 must-see attractions to visit on a Toledo day trip from Madrid:

• Toledo Cathedral : A true masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of Spain’s most significant religious landmarks. Marvel at its intricate façade, adorned with delicate sculptures, and step inside to witness the grandeur of its interior. The Cathedral is probably the most popular attraction in Toledo.
• Alcázar : The Alcázar of Toledo is a striking fortress that has witnessed centuries of history. With its commanding presence atop a hill, the Alcázar offers breathtaking views of the city. It is one of the 10 best-preserved castles in Toledo .

• Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca : This is a unique religious site in Toledo and one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. Originally built as a synagogue, it later served as a church and reflects the harmonious coexistence of different cultures in the city. Admire its stunning Moorish architecture, characterized by beautiful horseshoe arches and intricate geometric patterns.
• Santo Tomé Church : A remarkable religious site renowned for housing one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Spanish art, “El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz” by El Greco. Don´t skip this monument on your Toledo day trip from Madrid.
• Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes : Don´t forget to discover this serene haven nestled in the heart of Toledo. This Gothic-style monastery is renowned for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.

• Zocodover Square : This popular spot is known for its lively atmosphere and historical significance. It acts as a bustling gathering spot for both residents and visitors alike, offering a true taste of the city’s vibrant culture.
• Bisagra Gate : This grand city gate, dating back to the 10th century, is a symbol of Toledo and provides access to the historical city center.
• Alcántara Bridge : This magnificent Roman structure spans the Tagus River and provides lovely views of the surroundings. It is one of my favorite viewpoints to admire the city skyline.

• Synagogue of El Tránsito : Another splendid example of Mudéjar architecture, this synagogue now serves as the Sephardic Museum, highlighting Jewish history and culture.
• The Jewish Quarter : The narrow streets and alleys of the Jewish Quarter are some of the most historic landmarks in Toledo and are perfect examples of the city’s multicultural past.

Remember that the Toledo tourist bracelet will allow you to save time and money on your Toledo trip from Madrid. The bracelet grants you access to 7 of the most popular tourist attractions of the city at a discounted price.

One of the absolute must-do activities when visiting Toledo is exploring its best viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

I have also previously mentioned the Alcantara Bridge but there are other excellent viewpoints that provide an opportunity to appreciate Toledo’s beauty from different angles and perspectives, such as:

• Mirador del Valle : Located on the outskirts of the city, it provides an unparalleled vantage point to admire the stunning skyline and picturesque landscape. This popular spot is one of the stops of the hop-on hop-off bus.
• Alcázar Library : Located within the Alcázar, the coffee shop of the library offers a hidden gem of a viewpoint. Access to this viewpoint is free, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of Toledo while sipping a cup of coffee.
• Rooftop Bar at Carlos V Hotel : This bar, located atop one of the best hotels in Toledo , offers stunning views of Toledo’s skyline, especially at dusk. Admission is free for all visitors, regardless of whether you are staying at the hotel.
• Jesuitas Church: Included in the Toledo Tourist Bracelet, the towers of the church offer an opportunity to ascend to impressive heights and take in sweeping views of Toledo. Take into account that you must be in sufficient shape to reach the top of the tower.

If you want to spend one day in Toledo, a guided tour from Madrid is a fantastic way to make the most of your visit to this captivating city. A guided tour offers a wealth of knowledge, insights, and a deeper understanding of Toledo’s rich history, culture, and architectural wonders.

Here’s why embarking on a guided tour in Toledo is highly recommended:

• Expert Guidance : With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you will have access to expert commentary and fascinating stories about Toledo’s past and present. Guides are well-versed in the city’s history, art, and culture, bringing the sights to life and providing valuable context to enhance your experience.
• Efficient Itineraries : Guided tours follow well-designed itineraries, allowing you to cover the city’s highlights efficiently within the limited time of a day trip. You don´t have to worry about planning or missing any key attractions.
• Insider Tips : Guides often share insider tips and recommendations, helping you discover hidden gems, lesser-known viewpoints, and local spots that might be overlooked otherwise.
• Convenience and Ease : Guided tours take care of logistics, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in Toledo’s beauty. You can simply relax and absorb the sights and sounds of the city while your guide takes care of the details.

If you are visiting Spain, embarking on a Toledo day trip from Madrid with a guided tour ensures a well-rounded and enriching experience.

A Toledo day trip from Madrid wouldn’t be complete without savoring its delectable cuisine. The city boasts a culinary tradition deeply rooted in its history and diverse cultural influences. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these local delights:

• Marzipan : Toledo is famous for its marzipan, a sweet treat made from ground almonds, sugar, and eggs. It is especially popular at Christmas but you will easily find it in numerous pastry shops and bakeries. The most famous marzipan in Toledo is probably the one from Santo Tomé.
• Carcamusas : Served as a tapa or as a main dish, the combination of tender pork meat, flavorful tomato sauce, and a touch of peas creates a delicious dish that you cannot miss when visiting one of the best restaurants in Toledo .
• Cuchifrito : This delightful delicacy consists of succulent pieces of pork which are first slightly stewed and later deep-fried with garlic in olive oil until crispy. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of local wine.
• Pisto Manchego : This healthy dish is made of tomatoes, onions, eggplant, zucchini, green and red peppers, and olive oil. It can be served as a starter or a side, but I usually do it with a fried egg on top and a crusty piece of bread as a main meal.
• Manchego cheese : Manchego cheese is the most famous and commercialized Spanish cheese outside Spain. Its slightly acidic, tasty, strong flavor and distinctive crisscross pattern on the rind make it a true masterpiece.

Before concluding your Toledo day trip from Madrid, take some time to purchase some unique souvenirs such as traditional handmade damascene jewelry, ceramics, and swords , which Toledo is renowned for.

In my opinion, the best time for a Toledo day trip from Madrid is during the spring and autumn seasons.

During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower tourist crowds compared to the summer months. Springtime brings colorful blooms and a vibrant atmosphere to the city, while autumn showcases the beauty of changing foliage.

Visiting Toledo at Christmas is a magical experience too, as the city comes alive with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and joyful celebrations. In the peak summer months (July and August), you will find more visitors and temperatures can soar.

However, regardless of the time of year, Toledo’s rich history and cultural treasures are worth exploring.

A visit to Toledo, with its fascinating history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture, is totally worth it.

From exploring the historic old town to visiting iconic landmarks like Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar, Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, and San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, there is no shortage of things to see and do on your Toledo day trip from Madrid.

Near Madrid, there are other incredible places worth exploring. If you find yourself torn between Toledo and Segovia, consider checking out this post .

Yes, Toledo is an ideal destination for a day trip from Madrid due to its close proximity. It is approximately a 35-minute train ride or a one-hour bus journey from the Spanish capital.

The best way to travel from Madrid to Toledo depends on your preference. You can take a high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station, a bus from various locations in Madrid, or rent a car for a self-guided trip.

Yes. However, spending one night in Toledo allows for a leisurely exploration of the city’s charming streets, dining at local establishments, and the opportunity to witness the city’s magical transformation at dusk and dawn. So, in my opinion, spending one night in Toledo is highly recommended for a more immersive and memorable experience.

Disclosure: This article about the Toledo day trip from Madrid contains affiliate links. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and help keep my content free.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Black Friday: Up to 15% off selected tours

Prices shown include discount | Offer ends November 28th at 11:59pm PST

Home / Blog / Destination / Spain / Madrid / Toledo Day Trip from Madrid: Top Things to See, Do, Buy, & Eat

Toledo Day Trip from Madrid: Top Things to See, Do, Buy, & Eat

Toledo is a journey back in time and a feast for all five senses—both at the same time. Centuries-old buildings line streets that the ancient Romans once walked. The story of Muslims, Christians, and Jews lives on around every corner. Rustic family-run taverns cook the hearty regional recipes that have sustained locals for generations.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply eager to see another side of Spain. A Toledo day trip is a must on anyone’s itinerary.

All things considered, tourists and locals love to escape busy Madrid for day trips to nearby towns. But what is it about Toledo that draws millions of curious visitors every year?

For starters, UNESCO declared Toledo a World Heritage Site in 1986 for its extensive monumental and cultural heritage. It boasts 2,000 years of history, and is filled with small hidden squares, winding side streets and historic buildings and monuments at every turn.

While plenty of places in Spain have a fascinating past, Toledo’s unique confluence of cultures sets it apart. Christians, Muslims and Jews lived there together for many years, earning this town the nickname of the “city of the three cultures.”

And if you’re anything like us, the food especially is of the utmost importance. Luckily, Toledo boasts some of the best rustic cooking in Spain. Delicious stews and local meats are available on restaurant menus all around the old town. 

Where Is Toledo, Spain?

Toledo lies among the rolling hills of northern Castilla-La Mancha, the autonomous region that borders Madrid to the south as well as the east. The distance from Madrid to Toledo is about 72 kilometers (45 miles), making it easy to reach from the Spanish capital in under an hour.

Toledo history

Toledo was founded by the Carpetani, an ancient pre-Roman tribe with Celtic roots. Upon their arrival, the Romans strengthened the settlement—which they called Toletum in Latin—into a small but powerful city. After a few centuries of Visigothic rule, it later fell into Moorish hands in 712.

And this is where things get interesting. In addition to a strong Muslim culture, the Mozarab community of Arabic-speaking Christians also flourished during this time. King Alfonso VI took Toledo back during the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula in 1085, after which the city became the capital of Spain until 1560.

Throughout all these centuries, a prominent Jewish community was thriving in Toledo as well. In its heyday in the late 14th century, Toledo was home to ten synagogues , two of which survive in remarkable condition today.

This fascinating confluence of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam has earned Toledo the nickname “The City of Three Cultures.” Cultural and architectural remnants of all three are still prominent in the city today.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

There are a few different options for transportation from Madrid for a Toledo day trip, all of which are quick, easy and affordable.

Getting to Toledo by train

The high speed train from Madrid to Toledo departs from Atocha station. Trains run multiple times per day and get you from Madrid to Toledo in half an hour. Expect to pay a little over €20 for a round-trip ticket.

Getting to Toledo by bus

Buses from Madrid to Toledo depart the Spanish capital from the Plaza Elíptica station. The bus takes about an hour (though it can take longer if there are more stops along the route) and runs frequently throughout the day. A round-trip ticket will set you back about €10.

Getting to Toledo by car

Driving from Madrid to Toledo will take between 50 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic. The drive is a pretty straight shot down the A-42 highway heading south from Madrid. If you plan on taking a taxi rather than driving yourself, expect to pay between €80–100.

Organized tours

There are also dozens of organized tour groups offering Toledo day trips from Madrid. These can be a good option for some, but keep in mind that they follow set itineraries rather than giving you the chance to explore the city on your own. With this freedom and the ease of traveling between the two cities by bus or train, planning your own trip is much more ideal!

Toledo day trip ttinerary

Toledo packs thousands of years of culture and history into its compact space. While the city is small, we definitely recommend dedicating a full day (or even overnight) to Toledo alone—rather than trying to combine it with Segovia or any other popular getaway destination near Madrid.

Start your explorations in the center near the cathedral and work your way outwards from there. Explore the old town to the east, loop around to the Jewish Quarter, and head across the river for a stroll to take in a stunning sunset from the famous Mirador del Valle. Check out our full suggested route for the sights and monuments listed below to get you started, and feel free to add on or skip places as you see fit!

Top things to see in Toledo

Here are just a few of the most important sights to check out in Toledo. If you don’t have time to see them all in one day, consider spending the night!

• Toledo Cathedral (Catedral Primada Santa María)

Plaza de Zocodover

Mezquita del cristo de la luz, puerta de bisagra, el greco museum, el tránsito synagogue & museum, synagogue of santa maría la blanca, monasterio de san juan de los reyes, mirador del valle.

Top things to do in Toledo

Toledo cathedral.

The colossal Catedral Primada Santa María is filled with relics, artifacts, and beautiful murals, and is one of the foremost examples of the Gothic style in Spain. The site was originally a Visigothic church and later a mosque, and the modern structure still contains many Mudéjar influences.

This imposing 16th-century palace and fortress was the site of an important standoff during the Spanish Civil War, and today houses a military museum. It’s also the highest point in the city, with unbeatable views of the old town.

This colorful town square has been Toledo’s main hub for centuries. It hosted a regular livestock market in the Moorish days—and later, after the Reconquest, bullfights and public executions. Thankfully, its ambiance today is much more positive and upbeat as locals gather here to meet friends and enjoy fun events.

Explore Toledo’s Muslim heritage at this impressive former mosque, which was one of ten of its kind in the city during the Moorish period. With more than 1,000 years of history under its belt, it’s one of Toledo’s oldest surviving monuments and a fantastic example of Islamic architecture.

To appreciate the ancient walls of the old city, visit the historic Puerta de Bisagra—the historic stone gate at the city entrance. Dating back to the 10th century during Moorish rule, it is the only remaining part of the original Moorish city walls.

Head down into the old Jewish Quarter to visit the  El Greco Museum —a great way to get to know one of Spain’s artistic greats on a Toledo day trip. Housed in a beautiful old home, the museum displays an amazing collection of paintings by the famous Greek-born Renaissance painter El Greco, who spent most of his adult life in Toledo.

Just across the street from the El Greco Museum, the El Transito Synagogue is one of the oldest and best preserved sites of its kind. Founded in the 14 th century, the synagogue has beautiful plasterwork details that provide a glimpse at its Mudéjar architectural roots. It’s now a museum which houses a collection of Jewish artifacts from Spain and other countries around the world.

Another testament to Toledo’s rich Jewish heritage is the Santa María La Blanca synagogue, where all three religious cultures converge. The synagogue was constructed with many Moorish architectural features, the most prominent being the rows upon rows of horseshoe arches. It later became a Christian church after the Reconquest, but today is not a functioning house of worship—simply a fascinating place to experience Toledo’s rich cultural heritage all under one roof.

This stunning monastery is one of the most prominent lasting legacies of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, who commissioned it in the late 15th century. It’s been one of Toledo’s most impressive churches ever since, and a must-visit on your Toledo day trip.

If you have time, a leisurely walk along the southern bank of the river towards Mirador del Valle is a beautiful way to end your Toledo day trip (or your first day in Toledo). The sweeping panoramic views of the city at sunset will leave you speechless and provide a fantastic photo op!

Insider’s Tip : If you don’t want to walk out to the viewpoint but still want to check it out, you can also take a taxi or a city bus.

What to eat in Toledo

Toledo is the capital of Castilla-La Mancha, where hearty, home-cooked dishes reign supreme. Here are a few of our favorite typical bites to keep an eye out for.

• Marzipan : While typically considered a Christmastime sweet in the rest of the world, Toledo’s marzipan obsession runs deep. This typical local product is available all year round at bakeries.
• Manchego cheese : One of Spain’s best-known gastronomic products abroad hails from Castilla-La Mancha! You can’t go wrong with a tapa of salty cured Manchego with a glass of red wine.
• Venison stew ( ciervo en salsa or venado en salsa ) : Game meats are often found on restaurant menus and in home kitchens alike here in Toledo. This warming stew consists of tender venison simmered slowly in a flavorsome wine and herb sauce.
• Pisto manchego : Castillian cuisine is famously heavy on the meat and potatoes, but pisto is a nice exception. This vegetarian dish (easily adaptable for vegans by omitting the fried egg that traditionally tops it) is simply fresh vegetables cooked low and slow to meld all of their beautiful flavors together.
• Carcamusas : You can’t get more toledano than this pork-and-pea stew, which is typically served in a small clay dish ( cazuela ) for extra authenticity.
• Garlic soup ( sopa de ajo ) : The name says it all! This soup of garlic, bread, and egg is one of the most emblematic foods of central Spain.
• Partridge stew ( perdiz estofada ) : Also sometimes called perdices a la toledana in a nod to its local roots, this simple poultry stew with white wine and vegetables is perfect at a long, leisurely Spanish lunch.

Toledo, Spain souvenirs

Rather than the same interchangeable keychain or fridge magnets you can find anywhere, pick up an authentic memento from your Toledo day trip! Here are some prized local items to keep an eye out for.

• Swords : Toledo has a long steelmaking tradition, and has long been known for its artisanal swords. While authentic, hand-forged swords are getting harder to come by these days, a handful of local artisans still proudly make the best swords in Toledo.
• Damascene jewelry : This unique style of jewelry making consists of oxidized steel inlaid with gold or silver. It most likely arrived in Toledo during the Moorish period, and is today one of the most emblematic local art forms.
• Marzipan : For the foodie in your life (even if that’s yourself), you can’t go wrong with one of Toledo’s famous marzipan treats. The local marzipan game is strong, with bakers and pastry chefs shaping the almond-based sweet into all kinds of intricate shapes and figures.

Toledo travel FAQs

Toledo is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid. It is easily connected to the Spanish capital by public transport, and is a fascinating yet small city that’s easy to explore in one day.

Absolutely! Toledo provides a classic Castillian experience against a rich historic backdrop. It’s known as the “City of Three Cultures” due to its confluence of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim elements.

Toledo is 72 kilometers (45 miles) southwest of Madrid. It can be reached in 30 minutes by train and 50 minutes by car.

You can’t go wrong with either city—it just depends what you’re looking for! Toledo is a bit closer to Madrid and offers a fascinating blend of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences in its culture, history, and architecture. Segovia, while a bit further out, is still easily reachable from Madrid and is famous for its towering Ancient Roman aqueduct and breathtaking fairy tale castle.

Toledo’s compact size makes it easy to see most of the main sights in one day. If you’d like a little more time, it also makes for a great weekend break.

Toledo’s most distinguishing characteristic is its unique tri-cultural heritage—thriving communities from each of the three major world religions lived side-by-side here for centuries.

This post was updated on February 26, 2024.

The trip looks great but I will already be in Toledo can we go on the tour from Toledo and not Madrid?

Hi Christine & Roger! We actually don’t offer any day trips to Toledo at the moment—maybe some day! The above are our suggestions for the perfect self-guided day of fun in Toledo. Enjoy!!

IT’s lovely and informative. May i know is it easier to walk around? I saw may photos/ Youtube, it seems like the road path is narrow, what if we get a taxi or hire a driver guide, is it more feasible? Someone in our group will have injured in his leg, not sure is it suitable to walk ? We are going to Madrid around 17 until 20 NOV, thinking to spend a day trip around toledo. Thank you, Lily

Thank you for the excellent information. Do you have any suggestions about how I might be able to tour a cheese cave in the Toledo area?

Not sure Michelle! One of our colleagues has visited a cheese cave in Asturias though, let us know if you make up there!

Are there entrance fees for the Cathedral, Synagogue, or the El Greco museum?

There are indeed! Currently it’s €12.50 for the cathedral and €3 each for the synagogue & for the El Greco museum (both of which are free Saturdays after 2 pm and on Sundays).

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Please checkout again

• Login Register
• Contact FAQs About Julià Travel

Best Day Trips to Toledo from Madrid

Discover the city of the three cultures with our half or full-day tours to toledo..

Explore the enchanting city of Toledo with our day trips from Madrid . Enjoy a comfortable ride in a luxury air-conditioned coach , uncover hidden secrets with our expert local guide , and visit the most outstanding monuments.

Departures from Madrid City Center aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach.

Select one of our tours to Toledo and embark on a journey to uncover new destinations!

Morning tour to Toledo from Madrid – Cathedral included

Immerse yourself in this half-day tour to Toledo . Wander the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the old town, guided by a local expert . Explore the majestic Primada Cathedral and unravel the secrets of The City of Three Cultures .

✅ Entrance tickets included

Everyday | Duration: 5 hours

From 55€ 49€ per adult

Reduced price for children and seniors | Infants free of charge

Afternoon tour to Toledo from Madrid – Includes entry to 3 monuments

Discover the magic of Toledo on an afternoon tour from Madrid . Explore the UNESCO-listed old town and visit its main monuments: Church of Santo Tomé, Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca and Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes .

From Monday to Saturday | Duration: 5 hours

Full-day tour to Toledo from Madrid – Includes Cathedral and monuments

Make the most of the day with this day trip from Madrid to Toledo . Visit its main monuments: Catedral Primada, Church of Santo Tomé, Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes and Mosque of Cristo de la Luz. Toledo awaits you!

Everyday | Duration: 8 hours

From 82€ per adult

Get more & Pay less

Mix and Save: Segovia and Toledo

Embark on a remarkable day trip from Madrid and discover two of its most important cities: Segovia and Toledo . Discover Aqueduct, Alcazar, Cathedral in Segovia. Explore Church of Santo Tomé, Basilica of Santa María la Blanca and the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes in Toledo.

Wednesday, Friday and Sunday | Duration: 11 hours

From 90€ per adult

Toledo full day, tapas and wine

Discover Toledo’s rich cultural fusion and its title as “the city of three cultures.” Stroll the old town with an expert guide , delving into its history. Discover the art of winemaking in a premium winery , taste exquisite wines , and savor delightful pairings .

From Monday to Friday | Duration: 8 hours

✅ Entrance fees & wine tasting experience included

From 79€ per adult

Tour to Toledo, Real Monasterio de El Escorial and Valle de los Caídos

Embark on a captivating tour of El Escorial, Valley of the Fallen, and Toledo from Madrid. Explore the majestic Royal Monastery of El Escoria l, witness the grandeur of the Valley of the Fallen , and discover the rich heritage of Toledo , the city of three cultures .

Wednesday, Friday and Sunday | Full day

From 102€ per adult

Panoramic tour of Madrid and excursion to Toledo in the afternoon

Visit the Madrid highlights with a guided panoramic tour (Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Paseo del Prado, Cibeles fountain …). Immerse yourself in Toledo’s rich culture, and architectural marvels. A perfect combination of two remarkable destinations.

Monday, Friday and Sunday | Duration: 8 hours

✅ Entrance tickets in Toledo included

From 75€ per adult

Enjoy the best tours of Madrid

Experiences selected to offer you the essence of Madrid. Feel like a real local visiting the must-see places. Enjoy all the advantages of our activities, tours and excursions.

How to Get From Madrid to Toledo by Train, Bus, and Car

If you're planning to visit Madrid, Spain, you might want to consider making a trip to the nearby tourist-heavy city of Toledo (located around 45 miles to the South) to take in some additional cultural landmarks and guided tours.

Accessible by public train or bus—as well as rental car and even taxi—Toledo offers visitors a unique look at the ancient civilizations that founded the country in what is now the capital of this province of Spain. It's known for its Arab, Christian, and Jewish monuments spread throughout the city, this is the perfect additional tourist stop for those interested in the culture and history of Spain.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Madrid to Toledo?

The bus is the cheapest method of getting to Toledo with tickets starting at 6 euros costs just about 5 euros each way and takes an hour and a half to get between Madrid and Toledo. Buses leave every half an hour and depart from Plaza Eliptica to the south of Madrid. It is unlikely you'll have a hotel near here, so this is an inconvenient, though cheap, way of getting to Toledo.

The address of the bus station is Avenida de Castilla La Mancha s/n, 45003 Toledo (Castile-La Mancha). Perhaps the best way to get to Toledo, though, is the tourist bus  that picks passengers up from their hotel with only one morning departure time. Either bus service is cheaper than the train. Whether you take the bus or the train should depend on whether you are close to the train station or one of the hotel pick-ups.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Madrid to Toledo?

The  high-speed train  from Toledo to Madrid takes about 30 minutes and costs about 14 euros, so if you are staying near Atocha train station, this is the best way to get to the tourist city. However, there is now a bus service that will pick you up from your hotel and take you straight to Toledo. This is the easiest, cheapest, and probably the quickest way to get to Toledo unless your hotel is right next to the Atocha train station. 

The high-speed train from Madrid to Toledo departs from Atocha, Madrid's main train station. Trains depart every hour or half hour in the morning and every hour in the evening, with the journey taking about half an hour. 

Train times are subject to change, so  check the latest train times at Rail Europe  before you depart for the day. This is a good option if you are staying close to the train station. But, make sure to check out the guided tours below as they often add great value to your day in the city. The address of the Toledo train station is Paseo de la Rosa, s/n, 45006.

How Long Does it Take to Drive?

Travelers can also take one of three routes from Madrid to Toledo, with the longest taking just over an hour and the shortest route taking 55 minutes, assuming that there's no traffic. The routes use either A-42 or AP-41 roads, or a combination of the two. However, AP roads in Spain are toll roads so those routes will cost more than just gas to get there. Toll fees are based on distance but if you happen to be driving on AP-41 from midnight to 6 a.m. there won't be any tolls charged.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Toledo?

If you're traveling in a bus or car, try to avoid leaving Madrid during the morning and evening rush hour. But if that's not possible, expect the journey to take a bit longer than an hour and expect some heavy traffic in the city. In terms of weather, Toledo is at it's most pleasant in May, June, September, and October. Days are warm without being sweltering and crowds are smaller, especially if you travel in the spring.

What Is There to Do in Toledo?

Most visitors explore Toledo on a day trip from Madrid and there are plenty of tours that can whisk you around the local highlights. However, there's plenty to do on your own in the city. Your main reference point will be Plaza Zocodover which is close to the Puerta Nuvea de Disagra, our recommended point of entry into Toldeo from the bus or train station. Once in the Plaza, you'll see an archway which is a statue of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. Cervantes wrote a part of his most famous book in the vicinity of this statue.

South from Zocodover is the Alcázar. Turn left from here and you will approach the cathedral, once one of the most important in all of Spain. Walk around it and veer off to the left to get to the old Jewish quarter. Also nearby is the Iglesia de Santo Tomé.

On your way out of the city, don't forget to stop off at the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz, not far from Bisagra, which was where you entered the city. You can also take a guided walking tour or even  take a balloon ride over the city  if you have enough time while in Toledo to truly adventure around and explore.

If you have even more time in Toledo, consider checking out the 13th-century high-gothic Cathedral; the City Walls and Gates (especially the gate of Bisagra); The Alcazar Stone Fortress; the Jewish Sinagoga del Tránsito and the Sephardic Museum; the Cristo de la Luz Mosque; the Iglesia de Santo Tomé which houses "El Entierro del Conde de Orgaz" by Spanish painter El Greco; and Mirador del Valle, which offers fantastic views of the local landscape.

You can also see Toledo along with other nearby sites. The  Toledo, El Escorial, and Valley of the Fallen Tour  is highly recommended, but you might also consider taking the  Toledo and Aranjuez Royal Palace Tour  for a closer look at the history and culture of the region.

Staying in Toledo and Visiting as Part of a Longer Itinerary

Just because most visitors to Toledo only visit for the day doesn't mean it's not a great place to stay. Apart from allowing you to take your time and see everything you want without feeling rushed, getting  accommodations in Toledo and venturing out on a day trip is a great way to experience the region.

The best of these day trips is a journey to see the windmills of Consuegra, similar to the ones made famous by the novel Don Quixote. There are regular buses from Toledo that leave every hour or so and take approximately 90 minutes to complete the journey through these little La Mancha villages. 

There are also buses to Cuenca, Aranjuez and, sometimes, to Granada. But, check with bus operators because not all of them, especially the Granada route, will run throughout the year.

• Toledo to Aranjuez —This is a great alternative to going straight back to Madrid (or straight to Toledo from Madrid) with service run by Aisa  (not ALSA).
• Toledo to Consuegra —Offers several trains per day run by Samar .
• Toledo to Cuenca —There is only one train per day that usually departs in the evenings and is run by Aisa.

You can also travel in your own form of transportation by renting a car or scooter and taking a self-guided tour of Madrid, Toledo, and Segovia instead, which provides a lot more flexibility to your itinerary as well as more room for error in timing.

Unfortunately, public transport from Toledo to the south of Spain is limited and you will usually need to go back to Madrid in order to travel elsewhere. However, if you have your own car, it is easy to go south from Toledo to Cordoba, perhaps stopping by in Consuegra on the way to see the windmills. Alternatively, you could take a guided tour of southern Spain from Madrid or Barcelona.

Buses leave every 30 minutes and depart from Plaza Eliptica to the south of Madrid.

The drive from Madrid to Toledo is 48 miles (78 kilometers) and takes about an hour.

The  high-speed train  from Madrid to Toledo takes about 30 minutes and costs about 14 euros.

How to Get from City to City in Spain

Best Spain Tours Starting From Madrid

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

The 10 Best Day Trips from Valencia, Spain

How to Travel From Seville to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

Getting Around Madrid: Guide to Public Transportation

How to Travel From Madrid to Consuegra by Bus, Car, and Guided Tour

How to Get From Madrid to Cuenca and What to Do There

How to Travel From Madrid to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

Madrid to Valencia by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Visit the East Coast of Spain

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

The 12 Best Day Trips From Madrid

How to Travel from Toledo to Seville by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

AVE Trains in Spain

• South America
• United States
• TRAVEL GEAR
• Privacy Policy

• PHILIPPINES
• NETHERLANDS
• UNITED STATES
• OFF THE BEATEN PATH
• Responsible travel
• Animal tourism
• Eco friendly products
• Interview series

ITINERARIES , SPAIN

Day trip to toledo itinerary: getting wonderfully lost in medieval spain.

Getting lost in the narrow streets of Toledo’s old town is like getting lost in time. There is no corner without a spectacular medieval building you need to explore before you keep walking.

Probably even in the wrong direction of where you planned to. With so many incredibly wonderful distractions it is hard to get through it all on a day trip to Toledo.

One of many interesting facts about Spain is that the country has the world’s third-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites and Toledo is known as the mighty UNESCO World Heritage town of central Spain.

With so many interesting things to do in Toledo , it is not strange that the city tops the list of the best places to visit in Spain for first time visitors .

That’s why I put together the most important things to see in Toledo Spain if you are short of time in this fascinating city.

At the entrance of the old town by Puerta del Sol, there is a tourism office. I Recommend you go there to get a free map to keep track of where you are and where you are going.

The streets are easy to get lost in and as the distractions are many, it is a good idea to have some guidance along the way.

Before we get to the Toledo itinerary, let’s have a look at some practical information.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

MORE FROM SPAIN

• One day in Madrid
• Is Madrid worth seeing
• Madrid in winter
• One day in Valencia Spain
• Where to stay in Valencia
• Fun bike tours in Valencia
• Is Valencia worth a visit?
• Valencia in winter
• Epic day trips from Valencia
• Best coastal cities in Spain
• Best coastal towns in Spain
• Things to do in Merida spain
• Best hikes in Spain
• Epic road trips in Spain
• Andalucia road trip
• Mallorca road trip
• Hidden gems in Spain
• Weekend breaks in Spain

How to get to Toledo Spain

The most common is to go on a Toledo day trip from Madrid. There are tours, of course, but you can easily get there independently by bus, train, or car.

Besides, there are multiple organized tours from Madrid to Toledo if you prefer the commodity.

It only takes an hour to drive from Madrid to Toledo. It is not allowed for non-residents to drive inside the Old Town, but there are a few large, free, public parking lots just outside.

I used the one by Puente de Alcántara. If you put Alcántara Parking Toledo in your GPS, it will take you there.

From the parking, walk up to Puente de Alcántara, cross it, cross the traffic lights at the road on the other side and turn right up the hill (NOT straight through the arch in front of you). After a few minutes, you will come to the mechanic stairs where you want to go UP to the end.

Once at the top of the mechanic stairs, you are between Puerta del Sol down the hill and Plaza Zocodover a couple of hundred meters up the hill.

👉 CHECK CAR RENTALS HERE

There are numerous bus companies commuting between Madrid and Toledo, and prices start at less than 6 euros. ALSA offers 74 trips from Madrid to Toledo a day, and that is only one company, so there is no doubt you will find a bus!

Buses leave from Plaza Elíptica transport hub at level 1 and drop you off at Estación de Autobuses de Toledo.

👉 CHECK BUS TIMES HERE

The train from Madrid to Toledo is the fastest option. For 10 Euros you get there in only half an hour!

Trains leave from Puerta de Atocha train station in Madrid and get you to Toledo train station.

From there you can take the local bus straight into the Old Town at Plaza Zocodover or you can walk the same stretch which is only a 20-minute walk without photo stops.

👉 CHECK TRAIN TIMES HERE

Organized tours from Madrid to Toledo

If you prefer the comfort of an organized tour to Toledo , there are multiple choices from Madrid. These will typically include the bus ride, a local guide, and some of the entry tickets.

If you’re planning a larger Spain itinerary , this might be an easy option to avoid too many planning details.

I suggest this day tour to Toledo as it gives you plenty of free time to uncover the city beyond a guided walking tour and entrance to the cathedral.

👉 BOOK A GUIDED TOUR FROM MADRID

If you also want to discover the historical town of Segovia on the same day tour, I suggest this option .

It is a great opportunity if you don’t have the time to go on two day trips from Madrid , but want to see both places. And I really recommend seeing both.

You won’t get as much time in each, but at least you get a few hours and a walking tour that gives a lot of information and is truly valuable.

POPULAR TOURS FROM MADRID

Best time to go on a Toledo day trip

The peak season in Toledo is April to June. In this period, it’s not too hot in the daytime and not too cold at night. Prices normally go up, but it is a pleasant time to be there.

In the summer months of July and August, it can get extremely hot, and if you have the opportunity to avoid visiting at this time that is probably the best. Some local shops might be closed at this time of year.

The rest of the year, temperatures can be nice, sunny, and warm at day time, but drop drastically at night. Especially January and February are extremely cold months you can get your share of rain.

Even though the autumn and winter months are less touristy, there will always be high numbers of tourists roaming around this popular Spanish city.

Make sure you have a good, eco-friendly backpack for your day trip to Toledo .

You might also like: Road trip in Mallorca: Explore the best of Tramuntana

Day trip to Toledo itinerary

Now that you are all set to go, let’s start our one day in Toledo itinerary!

Make sure you arrive early so you get the most out of the day, and your shoes better be comfy because you have a day full of walking ahead of you!

To save yourself some money on entrance tickets you can buy a tourist bracelet that gives you entrance to many different attractions. In 2020, prices start at 9 Euros. You can get the bracelet at the tourist office (Paseo Merchán, S/N, 45003 Toledo. Opening hours all days 10:00-18:00).

If you come walking from outside the Old Town, I suggest you enter by the Puerta del Sol (Sun Gate) and walk up to Plaza Zocodover from there. On the way, you will enjoy the beautiful views of the city below.

If you park at Azarcuiel Parking, then you will get the views of the impressive bridge instead but still, come up by Plaza Zocodover.

Plaza Zocodover

Plaza Zokodover is a great place to start your Toledo itinerary as it is central to other places you will want to see.

In the case that you come to Toledo by train and take the bus directly to Plaza Zocodover, you can take a quick walk down to Puerta del Sol if you like. It is only a few minutes walk down the main road.

The square used to be the hub of the city throughout history, from Roman to Arab times. The current name of the square, Plaza Zocodover, really just dates back to 1945 when it was reconstructed, after changing names numerous times before.

There is a long and dark history to the square, where they had public burnings, and bullfights. It is said, that they kept the bodies of dead people that didn’t have any family in the middle of the square, in what they called the cage of the dead.

Today, the quaint square is a meeting point for city tour guides and is overflowed with fast food giants.

By walking up the main road from Plaza Zocodover, you get straight to the Alcázar de Toledo, a fortress sitting on the city’s highest point. Originally the construction dates back to Roman times, but was later rebuilt during the time Alfonso VI and Alfonso X reigned and again under the reign of Emperor Charles V. Now it houses a military museum.

Outside the Alcázar, there is a garden with spectacular views of the river below. Also, a good spot for sunset.

Catedral Primada

Toledo’s Catedral Primada is an eye-catching medieval Gothic structure in the middle of Old Town. Walking up from El Alcázar it’s only a 7 minutes walk, as long as you don’t get trapped gazing at all the beautiful architecture along the way.

The exact spot where the cathedral stands today has been a central place for worship since Muslim rule when the town’s main mosque stood there. Later, it was converted into a church and eventually destroyed. Long after, the Catedral Primada of Toledo was built on the same ground.

On the square in front of the cathedral, there is a beautiful piece of art, similar to a pond that fills up with water to give you incredible reflections of the cathedral and surrounding structures.

The inside of Catedral Primada is full of implausible details and an art gallery with masterpieces of artists like El Greco, Velázcuez, and Goya.

Lunch at Restaurante Madre Tierra

Restaurante Madre Tierra is a vegetarian restaurant with vegan options, just around the corner of Catedral Primada. The food is good and though I have read a couple of bad reviews on the service there, I experienced it as great.

One time, I had my dog, Ayla, with me and they let me take her inside and prepared me a table in a corner so I didn’t have to take the food with me out in the cold.

After energizing with some food, it’s time to head to the Jewish Quarter of Toledo Old Town.

Plaza Virgen de La Gracia viewpoint

Make sure you make a stop at the viewpoint of Plaza Virgen de La Gracia on your way to Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes. I ended up here by chance, but it was absolutely worth a peek at the monastery from above and the river views. From there, it is a short walk down charming, narrow, winding roads.

Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes

The Gothic monastery was built to celebrate the birth of a son and the victory of a war. The main facade is decorated with the chains of the freed Christian prisoners from Muslim times (you can see them on the left wall of the picture below).

The two-level cloister is one of the absolute highlights with a late Gothic style on the bottom floor and a Mudéjar on the second floor.

Puente de San Martin

Puente de San Martin is just next to Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes. It is one of 3 Medieval bridges crossing the Tajo river. With 5 arches, the biggest one in the middle has a span of 40 meters wide and 27 tall, which is pretty unique for the time it was built. The bridge has fortified towers at the ends for protection.

If you are the adventurous kind and have the time, you can try the zipline that goes across the river beside the bridge.

Opening hours for the zipline Fly Toledo are 10:00-18:30 and the price is 10 Euros.

End the day with dinner at Piensa En Mi Taqueria Mexicana

There are many places to have dinner in the Jewish Quarter if you don’t want to move too far. However, I went to this tiny Mexican that was packed with locals. And I went back again because the food was sooo delicious! Piensa En Mi Taqueria Mexicana is situated in Calle Plata 15, only a few minute’s walk up from Plaza Zocodover. They have good options for vegetarians and vegans and very cheap and mouthwatering tacos.

Responsible tourism in Toledo

As a natural tourist destination, Toledo is a city that at times gets too many tourists at once as it is an extremely popular day trip destination.

If you have the chance, you should try to spend more than one day in Toledo, but if you don’t you should totally go for the day!

An option is to try to travel in the low season as I did.

Make sure you respect the locals and be friendly even though you feel stressed to get to see everything in a short time.

There is a bull ring in Toledo that is still used for bullfighting. Please stay away from activities related to this and give your vote against unethical animal tourism and events.

Luckily, there are more and more bullrings shutting down across Spain, but unfortunately, there are still a lot left that are extremely popular. Among them, Toledo bullring.

The old town in Toledo is, as mentioned before, a UNESCO World Heritage site so help out by keeping it clean and use the rubbish bins provided. If you travel with a dog, not only do you have to pick up its poop. You also need to pour water over its wee, or you can get a fat fine.

Dog owner or not, make sure you bring your reusable water bottle on your day trip to Toledo. This way, you don’t contribute to plastic waste.

The tap water in Toledo is drinkable, so you can fill it up during the day. I love my eco-friendly water bottle from Bambaw as it keeps the water cold all day no matter how hot it is outside. If you like to filter your water anyway, test out this filtered water bottle from Brita .

With these small acts of responsible tourism , you will make a big difference.

Pin it for later!

Email address:

Taking the train in Spain - all you need to know

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

The vintage train from Sóller to Palma de Mallorca is one of the most scenic rail routes in Spain © Shutterstock

Spain boasts Europe’s longest high-speed rail network, second only to China globally, and its trains are exceptional and far-reaching. In one day, you could gawp at Gaudí’s architectural genius in Barcelona , be whisked by rail to Madrid ’s museums, and still arrive in Seville for a sunset flamenco show.

Not that it’s all A to B whirlwind rail routes. There are some outstanding scenic train journeys to slow down and enjoy the Spanish pace of life, whether trundling along the northern coast’s narrow-gauge tracks or meandering into the mountains. And with some new low-cost operators now on the scene, exploring Spain by train has never been more affordable.

With over a thousand stations and thousands more daily departures, getting around Spain by train is a straightforward joy rather than a stressful necessity. Seat reservations on most services guarantee uncrowded carriages, Rioja-serving cafe cars provide perfectly wine-paired panoramic views, and electric-powered trains make journeys even more sustainable. What’s not to love? Here’s everything you need to know to plan a train trip in Spain like a pro.

Train services are generally excellent in mainland Spain

You can traverse all four corners of Spain by train, usually on swift, reliable, well-maintained carriages. Few areas aren’t covered by at least a regional service. And where there are coverage gaps, buses will usually take you the final stretch to that pretty medieval village. While strikes can occur, they are rare, and minimum service levels are generally guaranteed. Compensation payments are offered for delays over one hour, which helps keep timetables on track. 

Renfe is Spain’s national railway company, operating everything from non-stop regional capital connections to short-hop commuter services. Iryo and Ouigo provide low-cost competition on the main high-speed intercity lines, with the latter’s double-decker trains being a welcome addition.

While the numerous names for differing service and train types can be confusing, the trains in Spain can generally be divided into three categories:

• High-speed, mainly long-distance (larga distancia) services link many major cities, mainly via Madrid. These full-service trains can reach 310km/h (193mph) and include Renfe’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), its new no-frills Avlo counterpart, and Iryo and Ouigo. There’s an ever-growing network of high-speed routes , including the popular Barcelona–Madrid, Madrid–Seville, and Madrid–Valencia lines.
• Mid-distance services – although they can sometimes cover long distances and reach speeds of 250km/h (155mph) – make up the majority of other major routes. Renfe services these under names including Media Distancia, Avant and Alvia. Intercity and Regional Exprés services are somewhat slower but only call at major stations. Popular routes include Madrid– Toledo , Granada–Seville, and the Euromed coastal service between Barcelona and Alicante . Nearly all long and mid-distance services use sleek, modern carriages.
• Slower trains , including Regional, Proximidad, and Cercanías commuter services (Rodalies in Catalonia), complete the network. The older Cercanías AM trains, previously FEVE, mainly operate on the northern coast’s picturesque narrow-gauge tracks.

Nearly all large and medium-sized train stations are staffed and contain shops or cafes. High-speed train stations operate similarly to airports, with luggage security scanners and boarding gates. It’s advisable to arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially as boarding can close five minutes before departure. The bonus is you’ll have time to admire the stations. Some, like Toledo’s Mudejar-style ticket hall and art nouveau Bilbao Concordia , are attractions in their own right.

There are tourist trains and unique rail services too

In addition to standard train services, Spain has an exceptional selection of specialist rail routes known as “ tourist trains .” These range from seasonal, short routes, such as the scenic Tren dels Llacs in the Pre-Pyrenees, to indulgent, multiday sojourns like the luxury Transcantábrico train hotel. There are currently no standard domestic night trains.

International and island rail routes are limited

Away from the mainland, the rail situation is starkly different. The Canary Islands have no train services, and only Mallorca in the Balearic Islands has limited rail connections . These consist of three short, modern lines and the vintage Sóller train. 

Traveling to and from France by train is possible on France’s TGVs (from Paris) and Renfe’s International AVE services to Marseille and Lyon . Fares start from €29. You can also cross via Hendaye in the Basque Country or take the slower, scenic sleeper service via the Pyrenees . The Trenhotel (night service) between Madrid and Lisbon has been discontinued, leaving the Tren Celta between Vigo and Porto and the slow route to Lisbon via Badajoz as the only connections with Portugal . Work continues on improving the tracks to accommodate a direct, high-speed link between the two Iberian capitals.

Book ahead to save money and guarantee your seat

Spain’s rail operators all use dynamic pricing for high-speed and long-distance services. Therefore, early booking is advised, especially as seat reservations are mandatory. Advanced Avlo tickets between Madrid and Barcelona start from €7, with Ouigo and Iryo also offering competitive pricing on primary routes. A same-day ticket can sometimes cost more than 10 times more than booking in advance. Prices are less competitive on routes solely operated by Renfe. 

When booking tickets online to or from major cities, use the dropdown city name followed by todos (all) to check for direct and affordable tickets from all stations. Provide the Passport or ID number of the photo document you’ll be traveling with, as tickets are personal. The second surname can be left blank – Spanish people take both their father's and mother’s surnames. Tickets can be printed, collected at self-service machines, or displayed as QR codes on mobile devices. Overall, Ouigo and Iryo's websites are easier to navigate than Renfe's, which can be glitchy. While most people would recommend using a third-party booking service – handy for comparing prices between all operators – direct reservations avoid booking fees.

Even short-distance, popular services with fixed fares (some mid-distance and regional trains) can fill up. I’ve previously struggled to get last-minute weekend tickets on the Madrid to Toledo route. Secure all tickets ahead if your vacation coincides with a major holiday such as Easter (Semana Santa) or Christmas, including around Three Kings Day on January 6.

Iryo and Ouigo release tickets many months ahead. Renfe’s tickets should be available at least 60 days ahead, but this isn’t always true. Check regularly in the months leading up to your departure and sign up for newsletters on the three websites to receive ticket availability and discount updates.

Occasionally, two single fares (ida) can be cheaper than a return (vuelta) . Reservations can also be made at station ticket machines (in English) or staffed desks. Larger stations may have separate sales points for particular types of tickets. 

You’ll always be assigned a mandatory seat reservation. However, if you’d prefer to select your own to guarantee a window, you can change it for a nominal fee. Confusingly, Renfe’s website has this step after choosing a payment method. 

Cercanías and Cercanías AM tickets can’t be purchased in advance and should be purchased at the ticket office, self-service machine, or onboard from the conductor when traveling from the tiniest unstaffed stations. This is the only time you’re allowed to board a train without a ticket. 

If you wish to upgrade from basic class (básico) on high-speed routes, you can choose from Elige, Elige Confort and Prêmium on Renfe, or similar options on Iryo. Upgrades can include access to premium station lounges, at-seat food service, and more spacious seats. Solo travelers may want to upgrade to enjoy an individual seat in the 2+1 configured carriages. Ouigo allows these seats as a paid add-on without upgrading.

Discounts and offers: know your benefits and bring ID

Much noise was made about the launch of Spain’s fixed-price travel pass . Yet this system, established to offer discounted fares on repeat return trips, is primarily aimed at locals and commuters.

Renfe does offer a Spain Rail Pass for travelers , covering between four and ten journeys. However, depending on the routes you plan to take, pre-booking discounted, advanced fares can be cheaper. Some region-specific options exist, such as the better value three-day Galica Rail Pass .

Other discounts available on Renfe include:

• Small group discount when booking four or more travelers together.
• Seniors discount, up to 40%, for over 60s. However, this requires purchasing a card ( La Tarjeta Dorada ) in person before making the reservation. Advanced, discounted fares can be better value.
• Youth Discounts for under 25s with a European Youth Card or suitable International Student Card. A digital card can be purchased online by citizens of most countries.  
• Babies travel for free, as do children, although the age cap varies between operators.

Considering an Interrail or Eurail pass? Check on any savings first. All high-speed trains in Spain require seat reservations, an additional cost not included in these passes. Avlo, Iryo, and Ouigo are likewise excluded, and these cheaper advanced tickets may be better value than using the pass, though there is less flexibility.

Money-saving tip: high-speed trains include a free local ticket

If you’re traveling on a high-speed AVE or long-distance service operated by Renfe or Iryo, Combinado Cercanías is included. This allows for free use of local Cercanías trains to reach your departure station and again on arrival. Scan the QR code at barriers, or use the PDF code to get a zero-priced ticket at Cercanías’ self-service machines.

Seat reservations ensure most train journeys don’t feel crowded

Traveling by train in Spain is so enjoyable because all long and mid-distance services require a seat reservation. With no congested corridors or jostling vestibules, these trains never feel crowded, even when full. However, some regional and Cercanías services can be packed, particularly around commuter hours and Friday and Sunday evenings. You might want to avoid peak times or, when available, pay for a regional service seat reservation.

Plan around major events and regional holidays during your trip, such as Semana Santa, when ticket demand and crammed suburban trains are common. Trains in Spain operate every day of the year, though some services may finish earlier on public holidays. If you’re traveling on weekends or during holidays, check onward public transport in advance as small, rural stations may have a reduced weekend bus service.

Train can be the fastest, most affordable transport method

Using the train in Spain can be quicker and cheaper than flying. For example, a flight from Madrid to Barcelona takes 1¼ hours compared with 2½ hours by high-speed rail. But once you factor in security checks, out-of-city airport transfers, and runway taxi times, the overall journey length by plane becomes longer.

Driving distances are considerable. The same journey by car will take closer to seven hours. It’s unquestionably worth renting a car if you’re planning a road trip , but generally, long-distance jaunts are best by rail. 

Most train terminuses are connected to city buses and, in larger metropolises, commuter rail or metro systems. Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Madrid–Barajas Airport are on the train network. If you wish to visit smaller towns or villages that are not on the train network, consider other ways to get around Spain .

Onboard facilities differ between service types

All of Spain’s high-speed train services are spacious, comfortable, clean and well cared for. Carry-on luggage can be placed in overhead racks, while storage areas at either end of the carriage accommodate bulkier luggage. Popular services (especially on Friday and Sunday evenings) can quickly fill, and train staff will usually assist in rearranging suitcases to fit. Cercanías services can be more dated and crowded and often lack enough dedicated luggage space.

If you’re traveling by bicycle, check the luggage policies of Renfe and Iryo . In some instances, bikes must be disassembled or an additional fee paid.

The dining carts on Spain’s trains are typically stand-up, cafe-style rather than seated dining carriages. They’re good for stretching your legs or getting an alternative window view, but dining at your seat table is often more comfortable. A selection of hot meals, snacks and drinks – usually all of decent quality – are available, and certain ticket types offer pre-ordered meals served at your seat. Iryo has particularly impressive dining options .

On some routes, a trolley service may be provided in addition or as an alternative. Mid-distance and Avlo services have vending machines rather than dining carts. Bringing your own food and even alcohol onboard Renfe’s services isn’t a problem.

Complimentary (sometimes patchy) wi-fi is provided on Iryo and Renfe’s high-speed services, alongside entertainment portals accessible on your device. Ouigo charges per connection. Plug sockets (F-type) are available at seats on high-speed and mid-distance trains. Nearly all trains, except commuter services, have toilets.

Plan the perfect train trip with these scenic routes and tips

The most popular train routes for travelers in Spain are the high-speed connections that rocket between Seville, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. But riding the rails in Spain isn’t only about barrelling between urban sprawl. These are some of our favorite scenic rail routes worth planning into your trip. 

• Santander to Oviedo :  Cross the lush landscapes of Northern Spain on this slow, scenic rail route using Cercanías AM’s narrow-gauge tracks. This six-hour journey provides some of the expensive Transcantábrico Train’s panoramas for a bargain €16.55. There are no seat reservations, which is handy, as you can switch sides to marvel at both the sparkling Bay of Biscay and the mighty Cantabrian Mountains , Spain’s answer to the Dolomites. 
• Barcelona to A Coruña :  Once served by the discontinued sleeper Trenhotel, this is one of Spain’s longest rail routes, taking nearly 14 hours. The 9:05am Alvia departure can be affordable to cross seven of Spain’s autonomous communities. Pack snacks and pay for a window seat (ideally on the right) to see the full scope of Spain’s landscapes, from arid pastures and fertile farmlands to the verdant Galician Massif . Consider hopping off a few stops early in Ourense to use the town’s free-to-access thermal pools the following morning.
• Granada to Almería : Leaving the magnificent Moorish Alhambra behind, set off across western Andalucía towards the coastal city of Almería. It’s a showstopping three-hour journey traversing the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, snow-capped peaks looming beyond, before cutting through carpets of cork trees. Book a late afternoon departure for ethereal golden light, or take two single tickets to plan a lunch pause at Guadix, best known for its cave houses. 
• Palma de Mallorca to Sóller:  Step onboard the rickety, wooden carriage of Ferrocarril de Sóller , constructed in 1912, for a one-hour-long trundle from Mallorca's capital to the pretty port town of Sóller. En route, you’ll wend through the Tramuntana Mountains, unlit tunnels, and citrus groves close enough to touch. All seats are excellent, but you might want to stand in the open-air platforms between carriages. 
• Zaragoza to Canfranc :  A one-way ticket on this twice-a-day, 2½-hour regional train costs just €16.90, and you’ll get plenty of panoramas for your money, especially after Huesca when the tracks slowly climb up into the ​​Pyrenees. Our resident rail expert, Tom Hall, calls it one of Europe’s best train routes , partly because the landmark Canfranc Station has recently been reborn as a grandiose hotel .

Station tips when traveling Spain by train

Most large cities have multiple train stations, so always confirm departure points. When traveling to dedicated AVE stations outside major cities, check the station’s distance from the city center and pre-plan your connecting travel. Some stations, such as Antequera ’s Santa Ana, can be as far as 15km (9 miles) from the Old Town. 

Spain’s largest stations, such as Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants, can be confusing due to split-level and separated boarding areas for different services. Don’t be afraid to ask for help navigating the station. A quick flash of your ticket will soon have you pointed in the right direction.

All major stations have cafes and kiosks where you can pick up food, although preparing a train picnic from a delicatessen might be preferable. Still, a quick tapas in Atocha's Tropical Garden, even if the pond-residing turtles have now been rehomed, is a solid start to any journey. If you’re on a connecting service with time to explore beyond the station, most larger terminals have lockers or left luggage desks (​​consigna) .

Many stations are accessible, but there’s room for improvement on older services

Adif, the agency in charge of Spain’s rail infrastructure, provides in-station and boarding assistance for travelers with accessibility needs via the Acerca service, offered at 145 stations.

When booking tickets online, H seats – accessible spaces that can anchor a wheelchair – can be requested on the opening screen, and Acerca assistance can be requested later in the booking process. A minimum of 12–48 hours' notice is stipulated, depending on the operator. However, in larger stations, staffed service centers can usually provide support without pre-booking if you arrive and register at the desk ahead of travel. Check which facilities are available at each station on Adif’s website .

In addition to offering boarding support (many train types require a stair-climber lift, not just a ramp, while others like Avlo have level boarding), Acerca can provide technical aids for hearing and a guided sight service. Contact Adif Acerca for information on induction loop systems or to discuss alternative routes should your planned journey include a non-accessible station without in-person assistance. Tactile paving, step-free access, and elevators are installed at most major stations, and nearly every train has a conductor or staff member onboard who can assist. 

On high-speed, long-distance, and most other services, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are located in carriages with H seats. Ouigo trains have a call button on adapted seats to provide food and drink service, as the cafe is located on the top deck. Cercanías AM carriages have no H seats but offer a dedicated space for wheelchair users with tie-downs. However, many older, narrow-gauge trains lack accessible bathrooms.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Rolling forests, saw-toothed mountains, bridges spanning river gorges - these European train rides put on quite a show.

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 6, 2023 • 8 min read

Jun 26, 2023 • 5 min read

Jun 18, 2023 • 6 min read

May 19, 2023 • 12 min read

May 5, 2023 • 7 min read

We're sorry to see that your browser is out of date. You'll still be able to read everything on the site, but some layout and design features may not look right in your browser.

To view this site properly, please upgrade Internet Explorer or download Firefox or Chrome for free.

Due to an electrical fire in our building on Jan. 16, our phone system is temporarily down. Until repairs are completed, please click here to contact us. Thank you for your understanding.

NOTICE: All classified ads will be Online Only after the January issue of The Courier. Please contact us with any questions. (864) 232-8736 or [email protected] .

NOTICE: The classified ad submission page has been disabled as we work toward our new website. To submit classified ads, please click on this box and you will be directed to [email protected] where you can submit your ad by email. A member of the Courier staff will be in touch with you. Thank you for your understanding and patience during this exciting time of change!

Columbia Pastors Scout Madrid for Missions Opportunities

By Todd Deaton

Published on April 10, 2024

A five-member team of South Carolina Baptists has returned from a trip to Spain, where they explored ways that churches can partner with international missions workers there.

The 10-day venture in February — coordinated by Jamie Rogers, missions strategist for Columbia Metro Baptist Association, along with Tim Rice of SCBaptists’ Send Team — was in connection with an emerging partnership with Madrid.

“The trip,” Rice said, “was a combination of visioning, to talk with missions leaders, and seeing areas where mission teams are needed.

“We hope they (teams) will lead their churches to pray more earnestly for the missionaries in Spain,” Rice said. “We hope they will get connected with the missionaries and begin to exchange prayer requests. Then, ultimately, they will send mission teams to Spain.”

The group also included three Columbia-area pastors — Kenny Robertson, missions pastor at North Trenholm Baptist Church; Jakob Elliott, pastor of First Baptist Church, Kershaw; and Jonathan St. Clair, missions pastor at Riverland Hills Baptist Church.

Steve Marlin, the Madrid city leader with the International Mission Board’s European Affinity group, not only showed them his city, but he also took them to the towns of Avila, Toledo and Segovia. Rogers hopes future teams will be able to establish a church in at least one of the towns surrounding Madrid.

Rogers said this trip — the first since Columbia Metro established a five-year partnership last October — went “better than anticipated, and we had great expectations!”

“We were able to take in so many sights, meet so many awesome people, and learned even more about the need for the gospel among the people of western Europe,” he said, noting that about one in every 200 people encountered may know Jesus.

Columbia Metro has committed to send at least four short-term teams to Madrid the next five years, Rogers added.

“This trip was technically a vision trip, so we weren’t sure how many gospel-sharing opportunities we’d have,” he said, “but when you have evangelists on your trip, it’s not hard to find those, and God presented us with several.”

The team visited two fledgling congregations, and St. Clair, whose family served as missionaries in Spain for three years, spoke at one near a college campus.

“I was most surprised by just how international and culturally diverse Madrid is as a city,” observed Elliott, for whom this was his first international trip.

“During our time there, we met people from South America, North and West Africa, Asia, and all over Europe who had made Madrid their home,” Elliott said. “This certainly makes Madrid a strategic location for taking the gospel to the nations.”

Upcoming trips are slated for May 22-30 and Sept. 28-Oct. 12. For more details, contact CMBA at (803) 619-7110.

21 Best Things to do in Madrid with Teens

M adrid is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of things to do with teens. I don’t think a family trip to Spain is complete without at least a few days in Madrid! The Spanish capital is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day excitement. You can explore world-renowned museums, sample Madrid’s famous cuisine, enjoy the city’s beautiful green spaces, and so much more. Scroll down to check out my list of fun things to do in Madrid with teens.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Top Things to Do with Teens in Madrid, Spain

I spent time in Madrid during college, and it’s always been a favorite place to come back to with my whole family! It’s great for even a quick trip because you can easily plan to visit a variety of places with so many sites located inside or close to the city center. So, keep reading below for the best things to do in Madrid with teenagers.

1. El Palacio Real (Royal Palace)

The Royal Palace of Madrid , also known as the Palacio Real, was once the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Today, it’s open to the public. You can explore the palace’s stunning, gilded interiors, with ornate furnishings, frescoes, and tapestries. There are beautiful gardens and courtyards surrounding the palace that you can visit, as well.

General admission tickets give you access to the Palace, kitchens, and gardens. You can also add on guided or audio tours for a small fee. There’s a discounted rate for kids 5 to 16 years old, and kids under 5 are free.

Highlights of the palace include the Throne Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Armory. The 18th-century palace is also home to an impressive collection of Spanish art, including works by Velázquez and Goya.

2. El Retiro Park and Crystal Palace

If you’re looking for a great place to relax and unwind, or if you want to explore some of Madrid’s most beautiful natural spaces, check out El Retiro Park.

Located in the heart of Madrid, this sprawling urban oasis spans over 125 hectares and was recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s breathtaking, with a wide variety of trees, gardens, sculptures, fountains, and ponds.

One of the highlights of the park is the stunning Palacio de Cristal, or Crystal Palace. It’s a stunning glass and steel structure that was originally built in the 19th century as a greenhouse. Today, the palace is used as a venue for contemporary art exhibitions.

Other popular attractions in El Retiro include the lake, where you can rent rowboats and the Rose Garden, which is home to over 4,000 rose bushes.

3. Take a Tapas Tour of Madrid

If you’re looking for things to do in Madrid with teens, you can’t go wrong with a food tour. Tapas are a type of small savory dish or a snack that was originally served alongside wine or beer. A tapas tasting tour is a great way to experience authentic local culture and see the city!

You can book this small group tapas walking tour of historic Madrid with a local guide. You’ll start out in the historic San Miguel Market and explore the old city from there. Each booking comes with your choice of wine, beer, or another beverage. Kids of all ages are welcome.

4. Eat at Mercado de San Miguel

If your family prefers exploring local markets on your own, the San Miguel Market is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of Madrid, this historic indoor market has been in operation since 1916. It’s home to dozens of vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses and Iberian ham.

You can pick up items to take back to your vacation rental or enjoy the outdoor seating in the Plaza de San Miguel next door. The market is always bustling with activity, and visitors can sample a wide variety of delicious Spanish specialties while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Plus, the San Miguel Market is also home to several bars and restaurants. You can visit every day from 10 AM to midnight.

5. Chocolatería de San Ginés

No trip to Madrid is complete without having churros and hot chocolate at the historic Chocolatería San Ginés . If you’re looking for unique experiences in Spain, this is a must. This iconic café has been serving up its famous churros con chocolate since 1894, and it remains a beloved institution in the city to this day.

The café’s churros are made fresh to order and served with a thick, rich chocolate dipping sauce that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. They’re open 24 hours, so you can stop by for a quick snack while you’re sightseeing or come in for a leisurely breakfast.

6. Day Trip to Segovia

Segovia makes the perfect day trip for those interested in history and architecture. Just an hour from Madrid, Segovia is known for its impressive Roman aqueduct, which dates back to the 1st century AD, as well as its beautiful Gothic cathedral. And if the city’s stunning Alcázar fortress feels familiar, that’s because it was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s enchanted castle!

You can easily explore this stunning mountain city on your own or book a full-day tour of Segovia with transportation . Spend the day exploring the city’s charming streets and learning about the history of this ancient city from an expert. You’ll also get to sample the local cuisine, like Segovia’s famous roast suckling pig. And your tour also includes admission to local museums and sites like the historic aqueduct.

7. Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod is one of Madrid’s most unique and fascinating attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s layered history and cultural heritage. This ancient Egyptian temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and was originally located in Upper Egypt, but it was gifted to Spain by the Egyptian government in the 1960s!

Today, you can visit the Temple of Debod inside the beautiful Parque del Oeste. The temple is free to visit and features beautiful carvings and hieroglyphics, as well as historical markers where you can learn about the temple. The park itself is lovely to walk through with beautiful gardens and unbeatable views of Madrid (especially at sunset).

8. Parque de Attraciones

inside the massive Parque Casa de Campo near Madrid’s city center is the seasonal Parque de Attraciones de Madrid . It’s a great time if your crew is a fan of visiting theme parks on family holidays!

If you’re looking to fill a whole day and have both older and younger kids, this is also a great option. There are a variety of rides for children, teens, and adults alike, including thrilling roller coasters!

You can attend live shows or visit the water park (though there aren’t many thrill rides here), and younger kids will love the new Nickelodeon Land section of the park. When you’re hungry, you have a variety of options. There are cafes, kiosks, and restaurants throughout the park, or you can bring in your own food.

9. Watch a Real Madrid Soccer Game

For families, attending a Madrid soccer (or futbol) game is a fun way to bond over a shared love of sports. Even if you’re not a die-hard soccer game, attending a game is a memorable way to experience a unique aspect of Spanish culture! Madrid is home to two of the world’s most popular football clubs: Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid .

These teams have a fierce rivalry that spans decades. This means that attending a game at either of their stadiums is highly entertaining. Even if the teams aren’t playing during your visit, a tour of their respective stadiums is worth it. Real Madrid plays in the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Atlético Madrid plays in the Metropolitano Stadium.

10. Museum of Illusions

For more things to do in Madrid with teens, check out the Museum of Illusions , located in the city center. The museum is an immersive, interactive museum featuring exhibits around different optical illusions. If your young people love being silly, taking pictures and videos for social media, and learning about science in a cool way, this place is perfect for them!

You can explore different exhibits and installations, like the Ames room that makes people appear to change size. Or there’s the Infinity Room that creates the illusion of infinite space. There’s also a game room with different mentally challenging puzzles, but it’s probably geared more toward younger kids. The Museum of Illusions is open every day, from 11 AM during the week and 9:30 AM on the weekends.

IKONO is another interactive art museum located in the heart of Madrid, Spain that you don’t want to miss! The museum is designed to provide visitors with unique and immersive experiences that show how art and technology work together.

Each room features different interactive installations and exhibits that involve many of the senses, including smell and touch. The installations at IKONO are designed to be visually striking, with bright colors, bold patterns, and creative use of lighting and sound.

You’re encouraged to engage with the exhibits, touching and interacting with the art to create your own unique experience. Many of the exhibits are designed specifically for social media, with photo-friendly backdrops and installations that are perfect for taking selfies! If you’re interested in skip-the-line tickets to IKONO, click here .

12. Take a Guided Tour of Madrid

A quality way to see Madrid’s most popular landmarks is on a guided tour. Consider this 2-hour walking tour through the heart of Madrid . Your guide will entertain you with fascinating tales of the city’s long history and point out interesting architectural details.

First, you’ll explore the historic Puerta del Sol in the very center of Madrid. Then, you begin your walk toward the Royal Palace. At the palace, you’ll skip the lines and go right inside for a private tour through the city’s most famous historical site.

For a tour that your teens won’t soon forget, take a Tuk Tuk tour of Madrid ! Zipping around on this electric, open-air vehicle is a great way to get in a lot of sightseeing in a short time.

You’ll wind through the city center and around the El Retiro neighborhood, taking in the city’s beautiful palaces, churches, and museums. This tour is also great because you can choose between 1-4 hours, depending on how much time you have.

13. Visit a Museum

Madrid is known for having some of the best art museums in the world. Some good options for exploring with teens include the Prado Museum , the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum.

Art lovers can’t miss the Prado Museum, one of the most famous art museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of European art from the 12th century to the early 20th century.

Nearby, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum boasts a collection of art that spans eight centuries, including works by some of the most famous artists in history. A little further down the road, the Reina Sofia Museum is home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of modern and contemporary art.

14. Day Trip to Toledo

Like Segovia, Toledo is another good option for a day trip from Madrid . Only an hour south of the city, you can easily drive there and explore the cobblestone streets of the old town.

Many of the stunning structures in Toledo date back to the 13th century. It’s fascinating to see the mix of Arab, Christian, and Jewish influences throughout! Toledo was also home to the famed painter, El Greco. You can experience his work at the El Greco Museum or at the church of St. Tome.

You can also make things easy on yourself and book a guided tour with transportation . Just meet your guides at their offices near the Royal Palace. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride and a fully planned itinerary to the best stops in Toledo. If you prefer, you can also choose a half-day tour (AM or PM) or a full 8-hour tour.

15. Experience a Flamenco Show

Flamenco is a traditional dance and musical style that has been a part of Spanish culture for centuries. Performances combine live music, dance, and singing, making it a thrilling and unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Flamenco shows tend to include dinner and drinks, so it’s a great way to spend an evening with the family!

There are several places to see a flamenco show just in Madrid’s city center alone. Probably the most popular option is the Corral de la Morería , one of the oldest and what is considered the best flamenco venues in the world.

For a more casual experience, Cardamomo Tablao Flamenco is a popular choice, with shows every night and a cozy atmosphere.

If your family is looking for a more upscale setting with a prix fixe dinner, go to Tablao Flamenco Torres Bermejas .

16. Walk Around Plaza Mayor

While you’re visiting Madrid with teens, take at least one morning or afternoon to walk around Plaza Mayor. It’s one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the city. The plaza was constructed in the 17th century and has been the site of numerous cultural and historical events. This includes bullfights, royal coronations, and even public executions!

Today, the plaza is a bustling center of activity with numerous shops and restaurants at every price point. In the winter, it’s the site of a Christmas village, and during the warmer months, you’ll often see free summer concerts or interesting art installations in the square.

This is a lovely place to enjoy some tapas, watch street performers, and pick up some souvenirs, all in the most famous and historic plaza in Europe!

17. Paella Cooking Class

How exciting to learn how to cook an iconic Spanish dish like paella from a real Spanish chef? One of the best things to do in Madrid with teens is enjoy a 4-hour cooking class with dinner ! Head to Cooking Point in the city center to meet up with your small group and chef guide.

From there you’ll head to a local market where you’ll learn about local ingredients and purchase what you’ll need. Then it’s back to the cooking school to create your masterpiece.

This is a great way to bond with the family and enjoy good food when you dine on the dish you’ve created at the end of the class. (If you want to make paella, make sure to book the morning class, instead of the evening tapas class).

18. Parque Warner

Parque Warner Madrid is an amusement park themed around Warner Bros. and DC Comics characters. It features a range of attractions and rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and a 4D movie theater.

The park is divided into 5 areas, with themes like Hollywood Boulevard, DC Superheroes World, and Old West Territory. There’s enough variety that it’ll be tons of fun for adults and teens, as well as younger kids!

The park also features daily shows and parades, as well as all kinds of eateries, including coffee shops and frozen treat vendors. Parque Warner is located less than an hour outside of Madrid, with easy access by public transportation or car.

19. Segway Tour of Madrid

Another great way to take in some of the most beautiful landmarks in Madrid or simply enjoy low-impact sightseeing is on a Segway tour.

Segways are tons of fun and can be driven by kids as young as 16 (age 10 with an adult onboard). This small group Segway tour of old town Madrid will take you all over the historic city center and through some of the most beautiful streets in the city.

You’ll get close looks at historical sites like Almudena Cathedral, Puerto del Sol, the Templo de Debod, and the most popular plazas in downtown Madrid. Each guest will get a helmet and Segway safety lesson before heading into the city.

Your tour guide will give you fascinating information about each place you visit, too. This is a highly customizable tour with different route options and tour lengths. You can choose routes that take you to see the massive Casa de Campo or end your tour with a visit to an amazing tapas place!

20. Casa De Campo

Casa De Campo is the largest park in Madrid, located just west of the city center. It is a sprawling green space that covers over 1,700 hectares and offers a range of things to do for visitors of all ages. Originally a royal hunting ground, Casa De Campo was transformed into a public park in the mid-20th century. Today it’s a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.

One of the highlights of Casa De Campo is the Teleférico de Madrid, a cable car that offers panoramic views of the city as it transports you across the park!

There’s also an absolutely beautiful zoo, the Madrid Zoo Aquarium. The park offers numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for boating and fishing. There are also several picnic areas scattered across Casa De Campo, making it a great place to spend a relaxing day with the family.

21. Madrid Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

One of the best activities for a multi-generational group and for anyone wanting to fit in as much sightseeing as possible should book a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Madrid ! It’s a great way to get your bearings in the city center.

The tour company has 2 different routes, and you can book either 1- or 2-day tickets. So, if you want to try different routes on different days, you can!

A hop-on hop-off tour is a top-notch way to experience any new city because you can enjoy audio guides for more information on sites along the route. If you want to spend time at an attraction, hop off and go inside! You can always catch the next bus when it gets to your stop. If you were to complete an entire circuit without getting off, it only takes about an hour or 90 minutes.

As you can see, Madrid has a wealth of activities and attractions for teenagers. From exploring the vibrant neighborhoods and trying new foods to visiting world-class museums and attending sporting events, there is never a dull moment. If you’re planning a family vacation to Spain or a weekend getaway, Madrid is the perfect place to bond with your teens and create unforgettable adventures together.

Where to Stay in Madrid

• Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via – central location on the Gran Via, offers triples and family rooms that sleep up to 4. Teens will love the rooftop pool and wellness center.
• Petit Palace Plaza Mayor – close to both Plaza Mayor and Palacio Real, this boutique property has several quadruple rooms for families and some rooms sleep up to 6.
• The Four Seasons – families looking for a luxury property should look no further. Housed in seven historical buildings with a four level wellness center and rooftop pool. Central to Puerta del Sol and the Prado Museum.
• The Madrid EDITION – beautifully designed hotel with a rooftop pool. Centrally located to Plaza Mayor .

The post 21 Best Things to do in Madrid with Teens appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .