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10 Absolute Best Day Trips from Madrid

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

From the Prado Museum to Gran Vía, Madrid has plenty to keep you busy during your visit. However, whether it’s because you have extra time or you feel the need to get out of the big city for an afternoon, there are many fantastic day trips from Madrid.

Within two hours of the Spanish capital, travelers will find incredible towns awash with Roman and Renaissance history. You can explore 1st-century aqueducts, royal palaces, and Disney-inspired castles.

Each town marks a spot in a delightful, rolling countryside where the journey is as good as the destination. Don’t want to hire a car? Don’t worry. Madrid’s high-speed trains and immersive tours will help you see the best of the surrounding region.

Even if you are only spending 3 days in Madrid , you may want to add a day to your trip to explore one of these beautiful Spanish destinations.

Getting to the Best Madrid Day Trips 

The best way to explore most of Spain is by train. Spanish trains are well connected, especially from a hub as major as Madrid.

From Madrid, you can take regional trains to many of the best day trips or hop on a fast train to a major city anywhere in Spain and be there in half the time of a car.

The best place to book train travel in Spain is directly on the RENFE website . Try to book at least a few days in advance to get the best price. If you are booking last minute, you may get a better deal on Omio (even though they have a booking fee).

The second option for getting around to the best day trips from Madrid is to rent a car in Spain. You can rent them from Madrid airport when you arrive or pick one up close to downtown.

When I’m in Spain (or anywhere in Europe for that matter), I always check prices and usually find the best options on Discover Cars . They show you all of the lowest prices with rankings for each company so you know what you’re paying for.

You can select airport pickup or city center pickup. Their full coverage is always significantly cheaper than the full coverage offered by the rental car companies (but is just as comprehensive and easy to use). Check out rental prices on Discover Cars here .

The final option for exploring the outskirts of Madrid is to take a tour. You can explore tour options around Madrid using GetYourGuide or the similarly fantastic Viator for great, affordable, and locally run tour companies.

Best Day Trips from Madrid

The historic streets of Toledo create a scene that draws visitors from Madrid daily. Christian, Arab, and Jewish history, culture, art, and architecture infuse the former Spanish capital with a breathtaking aura.

These old, narrow streets, bound together like shoestrings, are a marvel to explore. Getting lost in this UNESCO World Heritage Site is merely a necessary part of the itinerary.

An hour by car, or half that by train, Toledo straddles these hilltops and gazes down at the Tagus River. Through its medieval core lies a litany of highlights. Step by step you’ll wander by (or explore) such majestic structures as the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcazar.

The former is renowned for its splendid facade, a spectacular interior, not to mention original pieces by the one El Greco. The Alcazar has an alluring blend of styles that combine the best of Moorish, Roman, and Gothic.

It’s an easy drive to get to Toledo, just 60 minutes down the A-42. There are also plenty of trains between Madrid and Toledo throughout the day. 

Do you prefer to leave the logistics to others, while diving deeper into Toledo’s history? Check out this guided tour , one that also provides free time to explore on your own.

Toledo is a beautiful city and an easy day trip from Madrid.

Even for the most seasoned traveler, memories of Cuenca don’t fade. Their medieval streets, as traditional as any in Spain, are enveloped by tall sandstone townhouses fixed with fabulous wooden balconies.

The colors of the town, like the sun itself, shimmer in broad daylight and it looks down into the valley with two river gorges collide.

From below, Cuenca stands on top of the hill like candles on a cake, if the edge of the cake was a sheer cliff and not something sweet.

Built into the top part of the cliffs are the town’s famous Casas Colgadas , developed between the 15th and 18th centuries. Hugging the hill with all its might, one can head out onto the balcony and either revel or be terrified by the sheer drop.

Cuenca lies just under two hours east of Madrid by car. As you explore, you’ll see that colgadas are just part of what makes this UNESCO site special. Get about on foot to admire the Parador de Cuenca, the Spanish Museum of Abstract Art, and the cathedral.

A train to Cuenca will help save you time at only an hour long. But if you’re thinking of a guided day trip, this tour takes you to Cuenca, Devil’s Windows, and the Enchanted City .

Cuenca’s hanging houses really do look like they are teetering on the edge carved into the mountainside.

3. Valencia

The coastal city of Valencia, on the shores of the Mediterranean, may seem a little too far for a day trip. That rings true if driving in Spain is your only option.

But you can turn that almost 4-hour journey into a cruisy 2-hour trip if you jump on Spain’s high-speed rail. Better yet, settle in for one of the best weekend trips from Madrid by spending two days in Valencia .

If you’ve only got the day, head out from the Spanish capital in the morning to make sure you can see as many of the wonderful things to do in Valencia as possible. After enjoying the scenery and the convenience of the train, get about exploring one of the country’s most beautiful locations.

Here, the past combines with modern culture and amazing food. It’s also a chance to trade the city heat for a dip in the cobalt-blue waters of the Mediterranean as one of the many Valencia beaches .

Refreshed, get about experiencing Valencia’s growing street art scene along El Carmen. Dance between boutiques, retro shops, and the Lonja Silk Exchange. To save time getting around all of the different sites in one day, you may want to consider using Uber in Valencia while you’re there.

When your tummy grumbles, head to Valencia’s Central Market. In the mood for some paella? Well, you’ll be happy to know Valencia is where the famous dish was invented. If you want to know more, join this paella class before jumping on the train back to Madrid.

When you arrive in Valencia by train, you’ll arrive at one of the two Valencia train stations , Valencia Nord, pictured here, is the most beautiful of the two.

It takes less than 30 minutes to get from Madrid’s Chamartín station to the ancient streets of Segovia. Stepping off the train, head to the entrance of the Old City, where pedestrianized streets allow you to take in every drop of history.

As you wander, there’ll be one structure that continues to grasp your attention: El Acueducto. The Roman aqueduct is almost 3000ft of engineering brilliance that dates back to the 1st century. It’s arguably the most impressive Roman monument that still stands in Spain. Across its 163 arches, it reaches a height of over 90ft (28m).

The jaw-dropping, comb-like structure is as good a first impression as one town can give. But as you continue to head towards the peak of Segovia, you’ll uncover the Plaza Mayor. This happening square is the cultural centerpiece, one that’s also home to the formidable cathedral from the 1500s.

After a stop for a coffee and treat in one of Plaza Mayor’s cafe patios, head west down the thin cobblestone alleys. Soon a sense of déjà vu will appear as you see the inspiration between Sleep Beauty’s castle. This is, in fact, El Alcazar, whose garden harbors wide views of the rolling Castilian countryside.

Combine your day trip to Toledo with Segovia and Ávila into one guided tour .

The famous Aquaduct of Segovia is well worth visiting on a day trip from Madrid.

5. Ávila

Whether it’s combined with Toledo and Segovia or a standalone destination, Ávila is one of the best day trips from Madrid. The center of its province, Ávila lies beyond medieval fortress walls, over 80 imposing towers, and 2,500 turrets.

Exploring the town at street level is only part of the fun. For better perspective and views, you can wander along the top of the 11th-century, 39ft tall defensive walls. From here, you can truly appreciate how well-preserved Ávila is.

After coming back down to earth, make a beeline for Plaza Mercado Chico . Here, travelers can get a real sense of not just the past, but Ávila’s current magic.

Like Segovia’s El Alcazar, there’s a hint of Disney joy here. Dine in the square before taking in Ávila’s other major sites. These include the Basilica of San Vicente, the Mirador of the Four Posts, and the Cathedral of Ávila.

Getting to Ávila is as simple as making your way to Madrid’s Principe Pio station . The regular trains make the 1hr 40 minute journey. Alternatively, you can join a tour like this one which includes stops in Toledo and Ávila .

The city of Aranjuez has beautiful architecture and history to explore while you are visiting as a day trip from Madrid.

6. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

One of the easiest day trips from Madrid, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez , was first established in the 16th century. The former opulent hunting lodge, known for its extravagant lawns, soon became the spring home of the Spanish Royal Family and their court.

Through the eras, the changing of kings, and a little help from damaging fires, the palace has a beautiful mix of architectural styles. Since 1931, it has been an open museum, where you can admire the brilliant facade up close, explore the embellished gardens, and wander through the luxurious chambers.

Each room tells its own story, with evidence, period furniture, and elaborate art painting a vivid portrait. Not to mention the literal portraits of former royalty that pop up throughout. Other notable highlights include the Porcelain Room, with endless porcelain tiles and chinaware. You can also explore the Hall of Mirrors, inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Lastly, the Throne Room, with obvious significance, but the magnificence of the thrown and rich decorations make it memorable.

After seeing as much as you can inside the palace, take in the Royal Gardens. Arguably the reason the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens, complete with glistening fountains, flowerbeds, and statues, are a sight to behold.

When traveling to the palace, we recommend the 40-minute drive. You can otherwise take the C-3 commuter line.

Salamanca is rich with history and architecture to explore on a day trip from Madrid.

7. Salamanca

Incredible history and architecture can be found in Salamanca, similar to many of our favorite Madrid day trips. But there’s something different about this little city. The sandstone architecture certainly sets it apart. However, it’s the city’s iconic university that makes the journey worthwhile.

The 15th-century intellectual movement was in part headed by the thinking minds of the University of Salamanca, an institution established four centuries prior. Today, it’s the third oldest university on earth.

Much like the university itself, Salamanca has grown largely uninterrupted, preserving its past along the way.

Known as the Golden City, Salamanca’s eye-catching sandstone buildings such as the New and Old Cathedrals will stop you in your tracks. The Old Cathedral, from the 12th century, boasts a wonderful Romanesque design with a colorful apse, opulent chapels, and a memorable cloister.

You can continue to take in the golden buildings at the Plaza Mayor. Surrounded by three stories of endless sandstone, enjoy a little fiesta at one of the square’s cafes and restaurants.

To get here, it’s around 2 hours and 15 minutes by car. You can also jump on a train from Madrid’s Chamartín station and around in under 2 hours. With so much history to cover, join this guided walking tour to see the town’s best monuments .

The buildings in Cuenca are what makes this such a special day trip from Madrid.

8. Chinchón

A quick hour from Madrid, Chinchón is a great way to escape the capital’s busy streets and enjoy a rural side to life in Spain. Chinchón sits on the hilltops and has developed a fantastic food scene and a relaxed atmosphere.

You should begin your trip to Chinchón at its unique medieval plaza. It’s not like any we’ve mentioned prior, purely due to its circular layout.

Surrounded by shady patios, delightful buildings, and a healthy buzz of locals and travelers, indulge in the cuisine at La Repesca Casa de Vinos or La Casa del Pregonero.

Sample all the tapas, paella, and, of course, some of Chinchón’s surrounding vineyards. If you’re looking for something a bit stronger, the local spirit Anís de Chinchón dates back over 300 years.

Well-fed and hydrated, set about exploring the rest of Chinchón. Highlights include the 15th-century clock tower, impressive views from the surrounding miradores, and the Parador de Chinchón.

One hour, by car or bus from Plaza Conde Casal, it’s an easy single-day adventure. If you’re into wines, this tour gives you a taste of town along with the surrounding wine region.

The Monastery of El Escorial draws visitors from all over Spain and it is well worth visiting even if you aren’t particularly religious.

9. Monastery of El Escorial

If the Royal Palace of Aranjuez has left you searching for more royal elegance and unforgettable architecture, then the Monastery of El Escorial is the answer. Under an hour by car from Madrid, it’s an easy half-day trip from the city center.

The Monastery of El Escorial is a little bit quieter than its more famous counterpart. In that sense, you get greater value as the monastery is the largest Renaissance building on earth.

Almost 450 years old, this complex site consists of a royal residence, pantheon, library, school, hospital, and museum.

El Escorial itself is a beautiful small town on the edge of one of Spain’s most iconic royal landmarks. It’s easy to overlook, but wandering the streets of this town, trying some local cuisine, and admiring the culture is a great way to complement your monastery experience.

It’s best to arrive by car, as the train & bus journey requires several stops. However, you can visit the monastery and the Valley of the Fallen on this guided tour .

The stunning castle of Segovia is straight out of a Disney movie and you don’t want to miss seeing it up close.

10. Ribera del Duero

We’ve hinted that Madrid lies near some fantastic vineyards. With a visit to Ribera del Duero, you can forego the history and Renaissance buildings for a joyous exploration of Spanish wines.

The Ribera del Duero wine region lies two hours from downtown Madrid. A car is necessary to make this trip, although there are several wineries and tasting tours . These allow you to ditch the keys and the responsibility while ensuring you get to enjoy the region’s best drops.

But folks, it wouldn’t be Spain without some historic castles, including Peñafiel and Peñaranda de Duero castles. So if you have some spare time, go exploring the splendid countryside.

12 Day Trips from Madrid That Are Worth It

Madrid is Spain’s capital city and it is located right in the middle of the country. That means that once you are finished exploring the historic streets and cultural intricacies of the city, you can move on to the best day trips from Madrid.

With a high-speed network of trains and excellent road connections, you can easily be on the east coast within two hours, while famous cities such as Zaragoza or Salamanca are just a short journey away too.

Even closer are many ancient Spanish towns where you can peruse Roman ruins and royal palaces at your leisure, with destinations such as Segovia and Toledo being quite literally on the doorstep of Madrid.

The Spanish capital is an excellent location to base yourself when visiting Spain so to inspire you on your adventures beyond the city, here are our favorite day trips from Madrid .

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Spain (Travel Guide)

12 Day trips from Madrid That Are Worth It

Table of Contents

Located just an hour away from the center of Madrid, Segovia is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed city that’s just begging to be explored. Making it one of the best day trips from Madrid

This ancient city dates back to Celtic times but is perhaps most famous for the Roman era structures which are still standing even today.

In Segovia, you can find the iconic Roman Aqueduct, one of the finest examples of Latin engineering that can be found anywhere in Europe.

This mighty aqueduct cuts through the city center, where you can also find some spectacular examples of medieval architecture too, including the grand Segovia Cathedral.

Ensure you make time to walk through the old streets of the city center and make the journey to the Alcazar of Segovia, a dramatic Moorish palace that overlooks the river from its vantage point atop a hill.

Our top recommended tours:

• Full-Day Segovia Tour from Madrid by Train
• Balloon Rides in Segovia
• Private Day Trip to Segovia from Madrid
• Segovia Half day from Madrid with Optional Toledo or Escorial visits

Also found just over an hour away from Madrid is the equally historic city of Avila.

With roots that can be traced back to pre-Roman times and a long and diverse history of Moorish and Spanish conquests, it’s the medieval city walls that really draw in the tourists.

Built from the 11th century onward these are some of the best-preserved fortifications in Spain. The high walls and countless towers encircle much of the old center and can be walked upon for a large portion of their length.

At night, the entirety of the circular wall is completely lit up by a bright light display which creates an incredible sight in the darkness.

• Private walking tour of Avila with a professional tour guide
• Avila and Salamanca Tour from Madrid
• Avila with Walls Access and Segovia Day Trip from Madrid with Optional Lunch
• Avila and Segovia Guided Tour with Lunch Upgrade

Toledo is one of Spain’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s found just an hour to the south of Madrid, quite literally on the doorstep of the capital.

Perched on the beautiful banks of the Tagus River, the city is full of historic Roman ruins and medieval remnants.

The city center can be bustling and packed with tourists, especially on the weekends, so it’s best to try and arrive early to avoid the many tour groups that pass through.

Take your time to stroll through the old cobbled streets and to get out to the lesser-known parts of Toledo, where things are more peaceful anyway.

Visit the elegant Cathedral, the towering Alcazar and follow the Royal history of the city, because Toledo was once the Royal city of Spain, where monarchs held their court in centuries past.

• Toledo Half-Day or Full-Day Tour from Madrid
• Private Tour: Toledo Day Trip from Madrid
• Royal Monastery of El Escorial + Toledo Half Day Afternoon Tour
• Toledo Small-Group Tour from Madrid with Wine Tasting and Optional Lunch

4. Sierra de Guadarrama National Park

After several day trips from Madrid to historic cities, museums and castles you may be in need of a change. Head out into the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, a wild mountain range that separates Madrid from Segovia.

The highest peaks here can reach over 2000 meters and it’s not uncommon to see snow at this high altitude throughout much of the year. It can be a great place to escape to in summer. 

It has much colder weather than the cities below, particularly as you head higher into the mountains. Explore on foot, tackling hiking trails or mountain biking routes all the while enjoying the great outdoor scenery and rugged landscapes.

• Horse Riding in Madrid National Park
• Mountain Biking in Madrid National Park
• Kayaking in Madrid National Park
• Canyoning in Madrid National Park

5. Ribero del Duero

Spain produces some of the most highly regarded wines in Europe and the regions around Madrid are where some of these well-regarded bottles originate from.

Found in the countryside outside the city, Ribero del Duero is one of the most prestigious regions in Spain. This beautiful area north of Madrid is dotted with valleys, charming Spanish towns and of course wineries.

Take a day tour from the city that explores the landscapes and that takes you into the wineries themselves, for a tasting experience that really takes you to the very heart of this Spanish wine country.

• Guided Wine Day Tour to Ribera del Duero from Madrid
• Guided Tour to Ribera del Duero Winery and Wine Tasting from Madrid
• Premium Ribera del Duero wine tour with lunch & hotel pick-up

6. Salamanca

Just a two-hour drive or train ride to the west of Madrid is Spain’s ‘Golden City’, the ancient city of Salamanca. This makes the city one of the easy day trips from Madrid

With a long and illustrious history, the old city center of Salamanca is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its impressive medieval architecture and even more impressive heritage.

Salamanca is also home to one of Europe’s oldest Universities and the city has long been revered as an important place of learning.

This trend continues today, and visitors will find that the city’s main University is one of the busiest and most well regarded in all of Spain.

You can explore the elegant Salamanca University buildings in person, exploring the many arches and old lecture halls across the city.

Take the time to visit the cathedrals too, as well as the important royal palaces and the local museums to learn more about Salamanca’s unique past.

• Salamanca Walking Tour

7. Guadalajara

Guadalajara isn’t perhaps as well known as many of the other more famous cities that tourists will visit from Madrid. That makes this the perfect day trip though for those looking for a quiet, and perhaps less chaotic excursion.

This unassuming town to the northeast of Madrid has an equally intriguing history as more popular destinations such as Segovia or Toledo, with its origins dating back to pre-Roman times.

You can visit the impressive remains of a 9th century Alcazar, built by Moorish conquerors who also laid the modern foundations of much of Guadalajara.

There are many interesting palaces, museums, and cathedrals to enjoy too, but perhaps the biggest attraction is to simply stroll through the quiet yet charming streets to experience a small glimpse of local life in Guadalajara.

To the east of Madrid is Cuenca, a dramatically located city that should most definitely be a must-visit on any traveler’s Spanish itinerary.

Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, because of the incredibly well preserved old town and medieval fortifications to be found here. It is one of the best day trips from Madrid to be had.

The city was founded by the Moors, and much of their legacy is still apparent across Cuenca.

Visitors might be enthralled by the history here, but even those who care little for Moorish palaces or medieval castles will be left in awe of the spectacular sight of Cuenca.

Found on top of a high cliff in the mountains, this natural defensive position overlooks a scenically astounding gorge that is unlike anywhere else in the region.

9. Zaragoza

Zaragoza may be a long-distance away geographically, but by high-speed trains, you can now travel from Madrid in less than two hours. Zaragoza is the capital of the Aragon region of Spain and it makes for an excellent day trip away from Madrid.

With a beautiful skyline that stretches along the river, this a lovely place to enjoy the unique cuisine, the charming cafes and the intriguing museums of what is very much an underrated Spanish city.  

• Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket
• Private Walking Tour of Zaragoza
• Zaragoza Wine tasting and tapas in the ancient city
• Zaragoza olive oil tour & Visit to Belchite town
• Zaragoza Midday market tour and Spanish cooking class

10. Valencia

Found on the east coast of Spain, Valencia may also seem quite far away from Madrid, but like Zaragoza, high-speed rail connections will ensure that this is very much a day trip opportunity.

Escape to the beaches of the Spanish coastline to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the sea.

B ut make sure you also explore the city center, where quirky, modern architecture and charming Spanish restaurants have led to Valencia becoming a popular stop on the tourist trail.

• Valencia City of the Arts and Sciences with Rooftop Wine Tasting and Tapas
• Valencia Bike Tour
• Authentic Valencian Paella Cooking Class
• 3-Hour Valencia Tapas Tour

11. San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Found a little closer to Madrid, San Lorenzo de El Escorial makes for a shorter day trip from the city. This is the home of one of the largest royal palaces in Europe, the palace of El Escorial.

This is the real reason to visit the town, as this enormous architectural feat will astound you when you first lay eyes on it.

It’s a relic of a grander era, as King Philip II of Spain ordered its construction at the height of the Spanish Empire when gold and riches were flooding into his royal purse from all across the world.

The palace became his primary residence in the 16th century and successive members of the royal family extended it and lavished even more money upon its design.

Many of the Spanish Kings and Queens of the following centuries lived here and were then buried here, making this an incredibly important part of Spanish history.

• El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen Private Tour
• Escorial & Valley of the Fallen and Segovia with Optional Lunch
• Avila, Segovia and El Escorial Day Tour from Madrid
• San Lorenzo de El Escorial Guided Tour by Train from Madrid

12. Aranjuez

Those with an interest in Spanish royalty or Spanish history, in general, will also love a day trip south of Madrid to the small town of Aranjuez.

Here you can find another important Spanish palace, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, which was also built by the riches of King Philip II.

It is a grand and elegant building and a lovely day from Madrid.

• Aranjuez Royal Palace Tour from Madrid
• Toledo and Aranjuez Royal Palace Day Trip
• Hot-Air Balloon Ride over Aranjuez
• Private Tour: Aranjuez from Madrid

Recommended Multi-Day Spain Itineraries

• Walk The Camino De Santiago – If you’re looking to take on your own pilgrimage — along a route filled with beautiful countryside and rustic villages of Northern Spain — start here, at the Camino de Santiago. On this eight-day trip, complete the last 100 km of the pilgrimage route to Santiago and receive a “compostela” at the finish to prove your accomplishment. Refuel with tasty Spanish food and take the time to stop and smell the flowers — it’s active but at a slower, more picturesque pace.
• Classic Spain – In Spain, a country that’s filled with flavor, artistry, and passion, there’s no such thing as going halfway. Start in the south, where the Andalucian capital of Seville will introduce you to the most firey of dances — the flamenco. Head north and get a taste of Spain’s Basque and Catalan provinces: vibrant Barcelona, unhurried San Sebastián, Logroño’s famous cuisine, cosmopolitan Madrid, and the mighty Pyrenees. Each region of Spain has its own distinct character, style, and language to offer. Get it all here.
• Discover Moorish Spain – Discover the history and romance of Andalucia on this eight-day trip to five amazing cities, with plenty of free time to discover them. Explore Madrid’s famous museums, walk the cobblestoned streets of El Greco’s Toledo with a local historian, take a flamenco lesson in Granada, and embrace the region’s Moorish spirit in Granada and Córdoba. Some 1,300 years in the making, the fascinating culture of Moorish Spain will be sure to leave you wanting more.
• Best of Northern Spain – Spain has been described as less of a country than a collection of small nations all working together. Each region has its own distinct character, style, even language. This quick eight-day trip introduces you to Spain’s Basque and Catalan provinces the best way: through food, art, culture, and first-person contact. Vibrant Barcelona, unhurried San Sebastián, Bilbao’s fabulous architecture, Logroño’s famous cuisine, cosmopolitan Madrid, and the mighty Pyrenees, all in just over a week? Yeah, we did that. Come find out how.

More on Spain:

• The Best Madrid Restaurants and Museums
• The Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Barcelona Itinerary
• Best Day Trips from Barcelona
• 15 Sweet Things to Do in Ibiza Besides Drinking and Partying
• The Best of Costa Brava in Spain
• 10 Picturesque Locations in Spain
• Hiking Camino de Ronda From Lloret to Tossa
• 11 Unforgettable Things to Do in Seville, Spain
• 21 Most Beautiful Places in Spain
• Ultimate 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary
•   10 Best Day Trips from Barcelona That are Worth the Trip
• Where to Stay in Barcelona: Best Districts & Hotels (2020 Guide)
• 1 0 Adventures for Your Europe Bucket List
• 6 of the Best Hikes in Spain
• 21 Spectacular Things to do in Mallorca, Spain

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Day Trips from Madrid

15 Best Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid is one of the most popular cities in all of Europe. Partly due to their world famous football team, Real Madrid, and in part for the incredible history and architecture that it houses, Madrid really does have something for everyone.

With balmy summer days and cool winter months Madrid is a year-round destination and each season brings something new to explore.

Once you have ticked off the Buen Retiro Park, the Royal Palace and of course the Plaza Mayor, it’s time to escape the city limits and explore Spain as a whole.

From historic cities to wine regions, from royal palaces to coastal retreats there is a heap of great day trips from Madrid to enjoy.

Let’s take a look:

1. Barcelona

Although a fair hike, Barcelona can be easily reached in the space of a day trip from Madrid.

Spain’s buzzing second city has a whole host of cultural and historical gems to explore.

The Sagrada Família and Park Güell are the must-visit sights in Barcelona.

Park Güell is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Spain and is a one of Gaudi’s most impressive architectural works.

Football fans will have ample time to sign up to a tour of Camp Nou, the stadium home ground for FC Barcelona.

Self-confessed foodie travellers should make a beeline for La Boqueria, Barcelona’s famous indoor food market.

Toledo is one of Spain’s best loved UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is a great addition to any visit to this wonderful nation.

Toledo is often dubbed at the ‘City of Three Cultures’ for it has been home to harmonious communities of Christians, Jews and Muslims for decades.

Toledo provides a wonderful introduction to all three faiths and the religious buildings that are scattered throughout the city are each more magnificent than the last.

Toledo is situated atop of a gorge that offers incredible views over the Río Tajo.

Home to a wonderful history of art, Toledo provided an artistic sanctuary for greats like El Greco.

A highlight of any day trip to Segovia is to marvel at the Aqueduct of Segovia.

That said, the Alcázar of Segovia is pretty darn impressive, as is the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso.

The Aqueduct of Segovia was built by the Romans, features two tires and a whopping 167 arches.

It’s a awe-inspiring feat of historic construction that has stood the test of time.

The Alcázar of Segovia is certainly not to be missed.

This restored medieval castle has been brought back to life after a devastating fire.

The rooms are beautiful decorated and the armoury museum is seriously impressive.

If you have time do consider a visit to Real Casa de la Moneda, Spain’s former royal mint.

Avila is a historic walled city that lies just over 100 km from Madrid.

Known also at the Town of Stones and Saints, Avila has an interesting history to explore.

It really is incredible that the walls and turrets of Avila are still standing.

The town features over 80 of these towers and there nine different gated entrances.

Despite its age it is still possible to walk along the top some sections of the walls which is a wonderful experience, offering amazing views of the town below.

Within the walls of Avila you will find a fortified cathedral that dates back to the 12th-Century and a number of gothic palaces which are not to be missed.

5. Salamanca

Salamanca is another Spanish city to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and deservingly so, there is just so much culture and history here.

The New Cathedral of Salamanca is truly a sight to behold.

Ornate and imposing, the Cathedral features unique carvings that have been added slowly throughout the years, including an astronaut (of all things) during the 1990s.

For those interested in gothic architecture Casa de las Conchas should not be overlooked.

Covered from top to bottom in seashell motifs the Casa de las Concha one of Salamanca’s hidden gems.

6. Madrid’s Wine Country

Madrid is not only a city but the name for the whole region of Spain.

This region sees Manzanares, Tajuña, Jarama, Henares and Tajo rivers come to confluence.

All this water makes the landscape incredibly fertile, add in the Spanish sunshine and you have the perfect recipe for a vineyard.

There are dozens of wineries in the Madrid wine country and the winemaking history of this area dates back nearly a century.

During a day trip to the wine region you not only have the opportunity to taste some of Europe’s best wines but to learn about grape cultivation, wine production and the history of this lush landscape too.

This area is particularly famous for its Tempranillo grapes.

7. Las Rozas Village

Las Rozas Village is the leading outlet shopping facility in Madrid Region.

Lying just 30-minutes from Madrid city centre, Las Rozas Village is home to over 100 boutique stores offering up to 60% off luxury brand names.

If shopping is in order during your trip to Spain make sure to save yourself for Las Rozas Village.

With shops catering for men, women and children there is something for everyone.

There are a number of high end restaurants at Las Rozas Village that provide a welcome respite from a busy day bagging up bargains.

There is a Shopping Express coach that shuttles shoppers from central Madrid to the outlet and back again throughout the day.

8. Ribera del Duero

Spain produces some of the most highly sought after wines in the world and many of those wines are produced Ribera del Duero.

The landscapes of Ribera del Duero are simply breathtaking and couple this with the opportunity to sample some of the best wines in the world and you’re onto a real winner.

Ribera del Duero region is too home to an awesome selection of restaurants serving traditional Castilian food.

If you’re seeking a food based cultural adventure then a day trip to the Ribera del Duero region is certainly for you.

9. San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The small down of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is home of the royal seat.

In centuries gone by San Lorenzo de El Escorial was the full time residence for the King of Spain.

El Escorial itself in an vast imposing building build during the Renaissance era and is an expansive palace complex that could take a whole day of its own to explore.

If you’re travelling with children you can add a little variety into the mix and take a few hours to visit the Insect Park; an easy way to get the little ones back onside during a history filled day.

10. La Mancha

La Mancha is a region of central Spain, east of Madrid, that provided the setting for ‘Don Quixote’ the 17th-Century novel by Miguel de Cervantes.

A visit to La Mancha region offers you the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the lovable nobleman and connect with the Spanish countryside.

La Mancha is home to the largest vineyard in the world.

Budding sommeliers will not miss the chance to visit such a significant spot.

The wineries of La Mancha still employ traditional winemaking methods Easily one of the most beautiful areas of Spain La Mancha is best experienced with a glass of wine in one hand and a copy of ‘Don Quixote’ in the other.

11. Cordoba

There is just so much to explore in Cordoba, for lovers of architecture it is not to be missed.

Set in Andalusia, Cordoba has a rich and vibrant history.

The Mosque of Cordoba is constructed in typical Moorish style and features an impressive basilica.

Considered to be one of the greatest Islamic buildings in the world, the mosque is a wonderful starting point.

Moving on to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the Calahorra Tower, these too should feature high on the must-visit list for Cordoba.

There are a number of high end restaurants in Cordoba that serve exquisite traditional tapas.

12. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is a wonderful day trip from Madrid that can be coupled with a visit to Toledo if you are short on time.

The grounds of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez are wonderfully kept and a joy to explore.

From the Prince’s Gardens to the Island, to the Parterre, there is a fascinating array of vegetation to be found within the grounds and plenty of different tree species too.

The throne room houses phenomenal royal artefacts that give fascinating insights into the lives and times of monarchs gone by.

The Museum of Royal Feluccas is an interesting addition to a day trip and features exhibits on the royal boats.

Cuenca is one of Spain’s best kept secrets.

Although a UNESCO World Heritage Site Cuenca is often overlooked by travellers in favour of Toledo and Salamanca.

Most definitely worth a day trip from Madrid Cuenca has so much to explore.

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca really have to be seen to be believed.

The Bridge of San Pablo plays a vital role in this city’s history and is not for faint hearted nor those with acrophobia.

The Devil’s Nose train takes you on a picturesque journey through the Andes is an option most definitely for travellers who opt for a cheeky overnight stay in Cuenca.

14. Pedraza

Pedraza is a medieval town that lies just 37 km from Segovia, to the north east.

It is a charming, rustic town that is rich in history and culture.

With cobbled streets and plenty of cafes serving up traditional tapas, Pedraza offers you the opportunity to get at one with the Spanish pace of life and experience the culture at its most authentic.

The Pedraza Castle is not to be missed and houses the masterpieces of Ignacio Zuloaga.

Pedraza is home to the annual Fiestas Patronales which sees bulls run through the winding streets and bull fighting in the Plaza Mayor.

15. Valencia

If a trip to the coast be the order of the day then a visit to Valencia is a great option.

Just an hour and a half from Madrid city centre is the charming city of Valencia.

Sitting on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia has a laid back atmosphere that will make you never want to leave.

A city known for its art culture, make sure to find time to visit the L’Oceanografic if only to marvel at the wave-like architectural design.

The Institut Valencia d’Art Modern has a great selection on modern art pieces on display throughout the year and a great cafe too.

15 Best Day Trips from Madrid:

• Madrid’s Wine Country
• Las Rozas Village
• Ribera del Duero
• San Lorenzo de El Escorial
• Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The 6 best day trips from Madrid

Jan 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Explore beyond the streets of Madrid with one (or more) of these top day trips © margouillat photo / Shutterstock

The vibrant city of Madrid is overflowing with artistic and culinary treasures, not to mention an irresistible energy of its own – we'd recommend a minimum of three days to immerse yourself in its charms .

The capital of Spain also serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful towns and attractions anywhere in the country. There are walled cities, Roman ruins, atmospheric Spanish villages and even a UNESCO World Heritage-listed palace-monastery complex, all no more than an hour away. Here’s our pick of the best days out from Madrid. 

1. Explore the historic streets of Toledo

Travel time: 1 hour by car or just 30 minutes by train

The walled city of Toledo is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Madrid. Rich in Arab, Jewish and Christian history, the former Spanish capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Getting lost in Toledo's tightly knotted streets is the best way to explore it, particularly the narrow alleys around Plaza Santa Clara. But if you want a more focused itinerary, following the artwork of El Greco will bring you to some of the city's most spectacular sites.

Head to the medieval Catedral de Toledo to see El Greco’s The Disrobing of Christ before venturing to the Museo del Greco , the only museum in Spain dedicated to the artist. The trail also leads to the  Museo de Santa Cruz , where you'll see his Sagrada Familia con Santa Ana alongside a vast collection of decorative art and ceramics. For another taste of Toledo, visit  Museo Sefardí in the 14th-century Sinagoga del Tránsito  to learn about the history of Jewish culture in Spain, or get an insight into Toledo's Arab past at the  Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz , which dates back to around 1000 CE.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid: If driving, take the A-42 south. Alternatively, take a train from Madrid's Atocha station. The journey takes about an hour by car and a little over 30 minutes by high-speed train.

2. See an impressive Roman aqueduct in Segovia

Travel time: 30 minutes

Here in Segovia , one of Spain’s single most impressive Roman monuments, El Acueducto rises over the eastern entrance to the old city. From there, busy traffic-free streets climb past Romanesque churches and pretty squares to the city’s summit and the Plaza Mayor , the heartbeat of the city that's watched over by a 16th-century Gothic cathedral – one of the country’s finest and most formidable structures.

Continuing down the cobbled streets to the west takes you to El Alcázar , a castle said to have inspired Walt Disney’s design for Sleeping Beauty’s castle. The views from the gardens take in rolling hillsides and sandstone churches all across the Castilian countryside.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid: High-speed trains run hourly between Madrid’s Chamartín station and Segovia, taking less than half an hour.

3. Join a fiesta in rustic Chinchón

Travel time: 50 minutes

The prettiest of all the villages within striking distance of the Spanish capital, Chinchón has at its heart an enchanted, rough-hewn town square. All roads in Chinchón lead to the rustic Plaza Mayor , a gloriously ramshackle example of Spain’s traditional village squares. Encircled by sagging balconies on wooden buildings stories high, it’s the scene for the town’s biggest fiestas and even an Easter passion play during Semana Santa (Holy Week). 

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid: Chinchón is 45km (28 miles) southeast of Madrid. Take the N-IV motorway and exit onto the M404, or catch a bus from Madrid’s Avenida del Mediterráneo, 100m (328ft) east of Plaza del Conde de Casal. It takes about 50 minutes.

4. Walk the medieval walls surrounding Ávila

Travel time: 1 hour

Encircled by near-perfect city walls, Ávila is beautiful from afar and one of Spain’s more intimate urban experiences once you pass through its gates. Dating back to the 12th century, the city’s Murallas run for 2.5km (1.5 miles) with eight arched gateways, 88 watchtowers and more than 2500 turrets. You can climb the walls in places and walk along nearly 1.6km (1 mile) of their length.

From outside, the best views are from Los Cuatro Postes . Almost an extension of the city walls, the Catedral del Salvador is another extraordinary house of worship, as impressive in scale as it is exquisite in its detail. And of the many churches inside the walls, the Convento de Santa Teresa is the most storied, a pilgrimage site of great spiritual significance to Catholics everywhere. 

How to get to Ávila from Madrid: Trains connect Ávila with Madrid’s Chamartín station in just over an hour.

5. Marvel at the artworks at San Lorenzo de El Escorial

In San Lorenzo de El Escorial, one of Spain’s grandest royal monuments rises from the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama northwest of Madrid with vast royal gardens and astonishing artworks within. The Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial is an extraordinary place, a vast yet supremely elegant palace-monastery filled with artworks by artists such as El Greco, Titian, Tintoretto, José de Ribera and Hieronymus Bosch; the 1576 white marble statue of a crucified Christ by Benvenuto Cellini is a sublime high point.

Just outside, the Jardín de los Frailes is a classic example of royal, monumental gardens, and within it lies the neo-classical, 18th-century Casita del Príncipe , a stunning little counterpoint to the sheer grandeur all around it.

How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid: Renfe C8 cercanías (local trains) depart for El Escorial from Madrid's Atocha or Chamartín train stations. Or catch a bus from platform 30 at Madrid's Intercambiador de Autobuses de Moncloa. The journey takes about an hour.

6. Be awed by the royal palace of Aranjuez

Travel time: 45 minutes

A royal palace and gardens in a classic (and always buzzing) Spanish provincial town – what’s not to like about Aranjuez? Far grander than any of the palaces that Madrid itself has to offer, Aranjuez’s Palacio Real was a favored pleasure retreat for Spanish royals down through the centuries, and it shows. The 300-room palace was modeled on France’s Versailles and is surrounded by expansive and perfectly manicured gardens. Museums on the grounds showcase everything from royal finery in the Casa del Labrador to the pleasure boats beloved by royals with way too much time on their hands in the Museo de Falúas.

How to get to Aranjuez: If driving, take the N-IV south, then follow the signs to the town along the M-305. Otherwise, C3 cercanías trains leave every 15 or 20 minutes for Aranjuez from Madrid's Atocha station. The journey takes about 45 minutes.

This article was first published December 2020 and updated January 2024

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Day Trips From Madrid

The 12 Best Day Trips From Madrid

Madrid is a world within a city, offering a thriving cultural atmosphere, great shopping and sightseeing, and unforgettable food. It also boasts a convenient location right in the heart of Spain itself, which makes the city a perfect home base when it comes to exploring the rest of the country. Throw in Spain's excellent network of intercity transportation (particularly the AVE high-speed train ), and there's really no excuse not to take one of these day trips from Madrid. Here's where to go if you want to see a different side of this fascinating country and be back in Madrid in time for an evening tapas crawl .

Toledo: The City of Three Cultures

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As Spain's former capital, it probably comes as no surprise that Toledo offers a long and storied history of its own. What makes the city particularly unique is its influence by each of the three major world religions. The winding streets of the old Jewish Quarter , awe-inspiring cathedral , and Spain's most impressive mosque outside of Cordoba help make this fascinating city one of a kind.

Getting There : AVANT trains operated by Renfe leave Madrid frequently and get you to Toledo in about half an hour.

Travel Tip : Toledo is quite hilly, and its cobblestoned streets can complicate things even further. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on doing a lot of walking.

Barcelona: Cosmopolitan Catalan Culture

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As Spain's second-largest city and a thriving hub of culture and history in its own right, Barcelona has made a name for itself as one of Europe's most exciting destinations. From the unfinished masterpiece that is the Sagrada Familia church and the quaint Catalan charm of picturesque Gracia , to a diverse drinks and dining scene and dozens of fabulous beaches , you're guaranteed to never be bored in the Catalan capital.

Getting There : Take the high-speed AVE train from Madrid (operated by Renfe , Spain's national rail service) to get there in two and a half hours.

Travel Tip : With endless options of things to see and do, Barcelona deserves more than just a day. Consider spending more time in the city in order to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

Seville: Andalusian Passion & Flamenco Flair

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Andalusia, Spain's southernmost region, is often what people imagine Spain to be: sultry and passionate, with a near-constant soundtrack of flamenco beats. Perhaps no place encapsulates that image more than the regional capital, Seville, a colorful and vibrant destination that looks like a postcard come to life. Take some time to explore the breathtaking cathedral and Alcazar , then head to Maria Luisa Park to row a boat along the lazy river in Plaza de España when you need a breather.

Getting There : Take the Renfe -operated AVE from Madrid, which lasts roughly two and a half hours.

Travel Tip : Due to its appearance on a recent season of Game of Thrones, Seville's Alcazar has become more popular than ever. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

Segovia: A Living Fairy Tale

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While the towering Roman aqueduct may be Segovia' s biggest claim to fame, don't just come for the sake of checking it off your list. The storied medieval town is also home to an incredible cathedral and a castle (the Alcázar ) said to have inspired that of Disney's Sleeping Beauty.

Getting There : Getting to Segovia from Madrid couldn't be easier. Take the AVE train to get there in under half an hour.

Travel Tip : Segovia is famous for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). Don't leave without trying this delectable delicacy at a traditional spot like Restaurante José María .

El Escorial: A World Fit for Royalty

Daniel Hernanz Ramos

It's hard to sum up El Escorial in just a few words. Is it a palace, a monastery, a church or a library? The answer is all of the above, as well as the most important monument from the Spanish Renaissance. Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of King Philip II, the sprawling complex is one of Spain's most fascinating destinations.

Getting There : Madrid's commuter train, the Cercanías , will get you to El Escorial in about an hour. Take the C3 line from Atocha or Nuevos Ministerios. Bus 664 or 661 from Moncloa also get you there in about the same amount of time.

Travel Tip : While the eponymous royal complex is obviously the big draw for most visitors to San Lorenzo de El Escorial , try and take some time to explore the rest of the charming town if you can.

Valle de los Caídos: A Controversial Monument

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Perhaps the most controversial inclusion on this list of day trips from Madrid, Valle de los Caídos (Valley of the Fallen) is a remnant from Spain's fascist years under dictator Francisco Franco. The monument itself—an impressive stone cross and basilica—was built by prisoners of the Spanish Civil War, and today serves as Franco's final resting place.

Getting There : There is no direct public transport from Madrid to the valley—you have to make a stop in San Lorenzo de El Escorial (see above for information on reaching the town from Madrid). From El Escorial, take bus 660 to Valle de los Caídos o Cruce Cuelgamuros. The trip lasts 20-30 minutes.

Travel Tip : Due to the required stop in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, many travelers choose to combine the two into a single day trip from Madrid.

Ávila: The Majestic Walled City

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Often overlooked in favor of nearby Segovia and Salamanca, the beautifully preserved historic town of Ávila gives the more popular destinations a run for their money. Its biggest is the impressive medieval city wall , but another main draw is the Convent of Santa Teresa , a magnificent religious structure built on the home where St. Teresa of Ávila was born.

Getting there : Media Distancia trains from Madrid take about an hour and a half.

Travel Tip : Kill two birds with one stone: stop in Ávila for a few hours on your way to Salamanca to experience two of the region's most breathtaking cities in one day.

Consuegra: The Town of Don Quijote Fame

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Anyone who read Don Quijote in their high school Spanish class may remember how the titular character famously confused the giant windmills of Consuegra for monsters with flailing arms. While the massive white structures are certainly the town's biggest draw, the Moorish castle should not be overlooked, either.

Getting There : Buses operated by Samar take 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Consuegra from Madrid.

Travel Tip : Stock up on saffron while in Consuegra. It may be the world's most expensive spice, but it's one of the region's specialties.

Cordoba: The Caliphate City

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Hop on a train in Madrid and you can be standing beneath the arches of Cordoba's Moorish-area Mezquita in two hours. The historic city is also home to a medieval Alcázar offering beautiful gardens and impressive views from its towers. If you have time, a trip out to the shimmering Muslim palace-city of Medina Azahara is well worth the effort as well.

Getting There : Take the AVE from Madrid to get to Cordoba in under two hours.

Travel Tip : If you get into town early enough and want to save 10 euros, entrance to the Mezquita is free from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

Valencia: A Colorful Mediterranean Metropolis

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As Spain's third-largest city, Valencia offers a wealth of things to see and do within easy reach from Madrid. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences , and Valencia's charming old town —with remnants from the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors—provides a pleasant contrast.

Getting there : The AVE train from Madrid takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

Travel Tip : Foodies won't want to miss Valencia's massive Mercado Central , Europe's largest fresh food market and a verifiable gastronomic heaven.

Salamanca: An Academic Paradise

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Salamanca boasts a rich academic heritage—its university is one of the oldest in Europe. However, don't leave without snapping at least one photo in its breathtaking Plaza Mayor , or marveling at both of the city's two cathedrals .

Getting There : You can get to Salamanca from Madrid via bus. Vehicles are operated by Avanza and the trip lasts two and a half hours. Additionally, trains are available, but travel times differ depending on the type.

Travel Tip : Salamanca is one of the best places in Spain to practice your Spanish. The local variety of castellano is incredibly pure and easy to understand.

Cuenca: Hanging Houses & A Thriving Museum Scene

Cuenca is perhaps best known for its gravity-defying hanging houses, which sit perilously on the edge of a steep cliff. Once you've been left sufficiently breathless, get a taste of culture at the Museum of Abstract Art, or learn more about Spain's robust Holy Week celebrations at the Semana Santa Museum .

Getting There : Trains from Madrid get you to Cuenca in about an hour.

Travel Tip : Keep in mind when booking your train ticket that Cuenca has two stations: Estación de Cuenca-Fernando Zóbel, served by high speed trains, and Estación de Cuenca for everything else.

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15 Brilliant Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid is straight-up awesome, but you know what – there are a lot of places in the surrounding regions that are rather fabulous too. Discover the best day trips from Madrid with this in-depth guide. 

Had your fair share of fun in Madrid ? While I’m not quite sure that it’s possible to tire of Madrid’s cobbled streets and charming eateries, there comes a time when you want to see something a little different. 

It’s no secret that I love Spain, and at this point, I’ve been fortunate enough to spend a lot of time there in a lot of different regions… and guess what? The regions near Madrid are brimming with stunning cities and villages that are worth exploring. 

Enough of the chit chat – from the first capital of Spain (that’s Toledo in case you hadn’t guessed) to the world-famous Barcelona, add these brilliant places to your itinerary. 

Best Day Trips from Madrid

A mere 30 minutes from Madrid, Toledo is undoubtedly one of Spain’s prettiest cities. Perched on a hill and encircled by the deep gulf of the Tagus River, it’s a fitting location for what was the first capital city of Spain. 

It’s not hard to see where it gets its UNESCO World Heritage status from – ringed by Gothic and Moorish walls, along with a towering Alcàzar and a splendid Cathedral, it’s a living museum where Christian, Jewish and Islamic histories intertwine. 

Although it’s impossible to do justice to the city on one trip, do yourself a favour and narrow in on a few highlights. 

Start by visiting the Cathedral – the country’s finest Gothic cathedral (perhaps after Burgos). It was built between 1227 and 1493, on the site of what had been the Moorish Great Mosque. Stunning as the Cathedral is in its entirety, be sure to pay particular attention the the famous bell in the north tower – nicknamed the Campagna Gorda, it weighs a whopping 17,515kg. 

Not far from the cathedral, the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes is another must. It was founded in 1476 as the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs… although it wasn’t completed until the 17th century. Be sure to pop onto the terrace which has great views of the city. 

Other top spots include the El Greco Museum (he was, after all, the city’s most famous resident), the Puerta del Sol and the Mirador de Valle. Go to the latter for jaw-dropping vistas – particularly at sunset.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Toledo station.

Average journey duration: 30 minutes.

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Toledo Day Tour

I’ve talked a lot about how much I love Córdoba , a charming maze of winding streets bursting with Moorish and Spanish architecture at the foot of the Sierra de Córdoba. In an ideal world, you’d have a couple of days to explore it, but you can certainly see the most important sights on a day trip.

You can’t say Cordoba without talking about the Mezquita , a Great Mosque-Cathedral with a rich history that, along with Granada’s Alhambra, ranks as one of the most impressive examples of Islamic art and architecture in the region. Its Moorish-style arches and intricate mosaics are the stuff of legend. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here. 

Imposing as the Mezquita is, it isn’t the only piece of history in the city, with the 14th-century Jewish quarter and the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs also worth the visit.

The city is known for its flower-decked terraces – which burst into bloom during the annual Patios de Cordoba Festival. Even if you’re visiting outside of the festival, you should make a beeline for the pretty Patio de los Naranjos (Courtyard of the Orange Trees), which, as the name suggests, sports an attractive collection of orange trees and palms. The Palacio de Viana might not have the same wow-factor as some of the other places I’ve mentioned but it was one of my favourite spots. While the palace itself is nice enough, it’s the extensive patio gardens (go in spring or summer to see them at their best) that are the real draw.

How to Get There: Take the train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Cordoba station.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Segovia 

Built on a rocky hill on the northern slope of the Sierra de Guadarrama, Segovia is a picturesque town with a lot of medieval architecture and a unique Roman aqueduct – in other words, a place where history comes to life.  

Start by strolling around the city’s walls – built by the Romans and restored in the 11th and 12th centuries, they’re dotted with three impressive town gates. 

That’s not the city’s most striking Roman architecture though, that title undoubtedly goes to the Aqueduct – one of the country’s, if not Europe’s, most impressive Roman monuments. Dating back to the 1st century, in the reign of Trajan, it still brings water to the city from the Sierra de Fuenfria 17km away! 

Adding to the history is the fairytale-like Alcázar de Segovia (which just so happens to have inspired Disney’s famous castle logo). Built in the 12th century and enlarged in subsequent centuries, it’s a stunner. Climb the tower for gorgeous views of the town and beyond. For views of the Alcazar itself – head to the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos. 

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Chamartin station to Segovia-Guiomar station.

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Segovia Day Trip

Beautiful coastlines, turquoise waters, and sunshine all year long – what’s not to love about a little trip to Valencia? 

The old capital of the kingdom of Valencia might have a lot of history, but there’s nothing stuffy about this cosmopolitan city that’s bursting with life. An ancient saying describes it as “a piece of heaven fallen to earth” and you know what, it’s not wrong. 

So, what should you do on your day trip? Start off in the heart of the city at the Plaza del Pais Valenciano – home to the town hall, bullring and lots of relaxed cafes and bars. 

The magnum opus of Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex with interactive science and technology exhibits, an IMAX theatre, a planetarium, and more. It’s so much fun and you should spend a couple of hours exploring. 

I’d also recommend seeing the spectacular architecture at the UNESCO World Heritage Site La Lonja de la Seda , the Silk Exchange – pop inside to see the soaring halls of one of Europe’s most famous gothic monuments. 

How to Get There: Take the train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Valencia’s North Railway Station. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Barcelona (including, most recently, a four-month stint earlier this year), so yeah… a day is a tough call but not impossible! It’s also a bit of a longer train ride, so you’ll have to start early but we love a challenge! 

If it’s your first time, go with the crowds and see as many of the works of Antoni Gaud í, the famous architect who left his firm stamp on the city, as possible. The most famous of them, the Sagrada Familia, is (finally) almost finished and is just as stunning inside as out. 

After that, head to Eixample to see two more of his famous works Casa Mila (La Pedrera) and Casa Batllo, before treating yourself to a slap-up meal in one of the city’s cool tapas bars.  

Wand a real treat? I’d suggest walking over to the El Born area to nab a table at the fabulous El Chigre 1779 or the Cuines de Santa Catarina – a gorgeous restaurant in one of the city’s food markets. 

Stroll around El Born and you can also visit two of the city’s best museums – the uber-cool Moco Museum, which has pieces by all manner of contemporary artists including Banksy and Kehinde Wiley. It’s right next to the Picasso Museum, where you can take a deep-dive into the life and works of the father of modern art. 

Need more inspo? Read my guide to the best things to do in Barcelona.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Barcelona-Sants station.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Granada 

If Moorish architecture is your jam (it certainly is mine), then this next day trip is worth the slog. Madrid to Granada in a day – and back – is considerably long, but I can’t leave it off the list as a possibility — I’d be doing you a disservice.

If you only do one thing while you’re in Granada (and that may very well be the case if you do this as a day trip), it should be the Alhambra, a 14th-century palace complex that is straight-up stunning. 

It’s an outstanding example of Islamic palace architecture – keep a close eye out for the Court of the Lions – an imposing courtyard surrounded by 124 columns and 12 black marble lions. The summer palace – the Generalife – and its accompanying gardens are well worth spending extra time in too. 

Close by is The Albaicin, a beautiful hilltop neighbourhood with timeworn alleyways and amazing views of Granada.

Got a little more time? Immerse yourself in Granada’s vibrant culture while listening to flamenco music in a cafe or biting into some of the best tapas around.

How to Get There: Take a high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Granada station.

Average journey duration: 4 hours and 20 minutes.

A whole city that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Welcome to Salamanca. 

Buzzing with life, culture and beauty, I don’t think Salamanca gets its due as one of Spain’s most charming destinations. Sure, there’s plenty of history, but it’s a big university city too, which keeps things nice and lively. 

There’s no better place to start your day in the city than in the 18th-century Plaza Mayor, whose grandiose arcaded buildings were built to impress. It’s got a well-deserved reputation for being one of the prettiest in Spain. Spend some time wandering around the plaza and beyond, taking in the city’s ornate sandstone structures. 

The Romans’ former occupation of the city is apparent in the ancient Roman walls. 

Much as the university adds life to the city, it’s also a sight in its own right. Founded in the 15th century, it’s one of the most beautiful universities – complete with intricate carvings that date back to the 16th century. 

Modern-day attractions include the bridge that overlooks the Tormes River, a magnet for picturesque photos.

How to Get There: Take a high-speed train from Madrid’s Chamartin station to Estación de Tren de Salamanca.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Salamanca and Avila

There are few places as eye-catching as Avila. It’s not just the location – on a ridge that falls steeply on three sides, nor is it the wealth of medieval buildings, or even the old city walls – rather it’s a combination of all of that and more. 

Is it cliched to say it looks like it was plucked straight from a fairytale? I don’t care – it does. 

Plan to walk around the old town walls – at just over 2.5km, it’s an easy walk that skirts past nine gates and 88 towers. The walls were built to protect the city from the Moors who controlled much of Spain at the time. 

Hop off at the eastern end to see the city’s Cathedral, a large affair with a number of Gothic touches and tombs. I’m not going to lie – there are a lot of churches in Avila (it has the highest number of churches per capita in the country) but you don’t have much time so focus on the Church of San Pedro, Convento de Santo Tomas and Convento de Santa Teresa, which are the prettiest. 

Once the day draws to a close, climb up the Tower of Santa Barbara for magnificent views of the city before you hop back on the train again.PS: When you’re in a city famous for its regional cuisine, it’d be a crime not to stop by its cafes and eateries and enjoy delights like cochinillo (roast-suckling pig) or Castilian soup.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Chamartin station to Avila’s RENFE station.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Salamanca and Avila Day Trip

Seville 

Another of my favourite spots, Seville is a city with bucket loads of culture lent from various civilisations throughout history. If you haven’t visited yet, you should. Again, this is one of the longer day trips, but it is doable if you start early and prepare to get back to Madrid relatively late. 

Most of Seville’s history is evident in the city centre, which has the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start your day with a trip to the grand Seville Cathedral. It’s splendid – not to mention one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. 

Venture inside and you can’t help but feel the sheer scale of it but if you pay attention to the details, you’ll see all kinds of statues and reliefs… along with the grave of none other than Christopher Columbus. If you can, nab a spot on the guided rooftop tour to see a different side of the cathedral (not to mention giving you some stunning views of the city in the process). 

That’s all before you get to the Real Alcazar of Seville , an extensive palace complex complete with a lush garden and Moorish architecture (which was also used as a filming location for Dorne in Game of Thrones ). 

I said it was going to be tough exploring the city – if you have time, try and visit the stunning Casa de Pilatos (Pilate’s House)… but whatever you do, make sure you take the time to try some of the city’s STELLAR tapas spots – I recommend El Rinconcillo, the oldest bar in the city.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Seville’s Santa Justa station.

Average journey duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Ribeira del Duero

We’ve talked a lot about cities so far in this guide, but the Ribera del Duero offers something different. It’s one of Spain’s best wine regions and renowned for being the home of some rather tasty tipples. 

Picturesque Ribeira del Duero boasts many vineyards ready to delight the palates of wine lovers — think fragrant Verdejo and the finest Tempranillo. Vineyards here range from boutique producers to those offering guided tours and tastings.

But that’s not all – the region boasts a number of mediaeval villages and castles – including those in Peñafiel and Peñaranda del Duero, so you get your culture fix between (or instead of) sips. 

How to Get There: Take the bus from Madrid to Aranda del Duero, then hail a taxi to the area you want to go to.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Ribera del Duero Wineries Tour

So you’ve seen the biggies and you’re looking for something a little more offbeat? Burgos is a hidden gem in northern Spain with a ton to offer. 

Whether a nature enthusiast or a history buff, you’re in for an epic day trip. Stroll along the city’s cobblestoned streets, taking in its magnificent Renaissance-style architecture. 

Get up close and personal with the renowned Gothic cathedral, often referenced as an example of Spain’s best religious architecture. It’s a spectacle you’d be hard-pressed to miss, thanks to its sprawling Yellowstone spires that are visible from miles away.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Principe Pio station to Burgos-Rosa de Lima station.

Average journey duration: 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Logrono (And the La Rioja Region)

I could just tell you to visit the La Rioja region and be done with it – but that wouldn’t be too helpful. So let me tell you about Logroño .

Logrono is an enchanting city and renowned for its beauty. Verdant vineyards, historic architecture and a stellar culinary scene combine into one hell of a winning destination. 

Pop into the Museum of La Rioja, or take a stroll on a short section of the Camino de Santiago hiking trail. 

Of course, swinging by the vineyards here should be high on your to-do list – my favourite is the striking Bodega Ysios – a temple of contemporary design sitting in the lush plains outside of town. 

But why stop in Logrono when you can expand the journey to the entirety of the La Rioja region? Enjoy the finest grapes at the El Valle de Yerri, stroll through the markets of Alfaro for magnificent souvenirs, or soak up history at the La Fabrica de San Milan.

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Zaragoza, then take the bus from Zaragoza’s Central Bus Station to Estación de Autobuses de Logrono. It’s a long trip, so start early. 

Tucked away in eastern Spain, Cuenca is a charming Andalusian city with history and fun to spare — the nickname “Enchanted City” fits perfectly.

Skip the regular attractions and enjoy something unique when you visit the hanging houses of Cuenca. These ancient dwellings teeter on cliff sides, which is quite the sight to see.

Like many of Spain’s cities and villages, Cuenca is home to an imposing Gothic cathedral. The mesmerising structure is most famous for its trio of domes that have become quite the photography magnet. 

How to Get There: Take the high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Cuenca station.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 32 minutes.

Hassle-free option: Book This Madrid to Cuenca Tour

Puerto de Navacerrada

Take a break from historical sites and fascinating art galleries and let loose at the Puerto de Navacerrada. 

Located in Spain’s stunning Sistema Central mountain range, you can escape city life and zoom down snowy slopes. Oh, and thanks to its elevated location, you’ll enjoy impressive panoramas surrounding the mountain range.

In the summer, you can enjoy hiking along the many trekking paths while soaking up the incredible views and its lush green valleys.

How to Get There: Take the bus from Intercambiador de Moncloa to CTRA.M601-Club Alpino.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is where red-tiled roofs and centuries-old churches compete for attention in the otherwise modern landscape. This small city, located just an hour from Madrid, offers visitors an amalgamation of both old and new.

Here, you can take strolls through a leafy area around the Zancara River and visit the historic Concordia Park with a fantastic fountain. Stop by the Palacio del Infantado and the Pantheon of the Duchess of Sevillano for a healthy dose of architecture and history.

How to Get There: Take the train from Madrid’s Chamartin station to Guadalajara’s Azuqueca station. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour.

Madrid Day Trips: Map

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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10 Best (Easy!) Day Trips from Madrid: Ultimate Guide

Located in the geographical center of Spain, Madrid seems close to everything. Madrid has so much to offer travelers, but Madrid’s proximity to so many incredible nearby destinations means that choosing at least one day trip from Madrid is a must for any itinerary.

Within a few hours of Madrid, you’ll find medieval cities and fortresses, royal palaces, fantastic vineyards, the most impressive cities in Spain , and much more. There is a perfect Madrid day trip for every type of traveler and on every budget.

In this ultimate guide to the ten best day trips from Madrid , we share exactly where you should add to your itinerary. Plus, we’re covering how to get there and the best things to do once you arrive. Let’s dive in!

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Day Trips from Madrid

There is a lot to choose from when it comes to deciding on a perfect day trip from Madrid. If you’re on a tight itinerary, it can even be a good idea to base yourself in Madrid and take several day trips from Madrid, rather than jumping from city to city for the duration of your time in Spain.   

Of course, with Madrid in the geographical heart of the country, you can reach so much in just one day. The options we’ve included in this article allow for an easy trip in and out to return to Madrid in one day.   

However, don’t think you can’t spend even more time in these destinations! Taking a weekend trip from Madrid can be the perfect way to explore these lovely spots even better, and enjoy them at a more relaxed pace.  

While the ease of travel varies with each destination, train travel is generally the way to go from Madrid. You’ll find frequent trains heading out of the city – including standard trains and high-speed trains – that cover most of Spain, and beyond.   

Download the handy Omio app to make travel easier – it will allow you to easily check train times and book train tickets (or tickets for buses, or flights!) on all carriers at once.   Now, let’s dive into the ultimate top ten day trips from Madrid! 

Prepare to be wowed by Ávila! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive one, and one of the world’s only medieval cities entirely enclosed inside original walls. In addition to being easily accessible to Madrid, this charming and historic city makes for an ideal day trip from Madrid – it’s hard to get better than this!

The imposing city wall is the main attraction here, and you’ll want to spend time exploring them. The view from the top of the walls is impressive, but you’ll also want to take it all in from outside the city. Head to the Four Posts monument outside the city walls – an important site in the life of St. Theresa, this spot also has an enviable view of the walls.

Don’t miss the Catedral de Ávila, either. Ávila’s grand and towering cathedral is built into the walls, and while it certainly is an attraction you won’t want to miss, it is also the best way to access the walls.

Ávila is easily reached from Madrid by bus or train, though the train journey is easiest – trains leave hourly from Madrid’s Principe Pio train station and cost around €10.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to see multiple historic cities outside of Madrid in just one day, you’ll have several options to choose from.

Guided small-group excursions to Ávila and Segovia are pretty popular and relatively inexpensive! Small group excursions to Ávila and Salamanca are also very popular, and while a little more expensive, well worth it to see two incredible destinations in one day, with ease.

Yet another jaw-dropping city in Spain perfect for a day trip from Madrid, Segovia oozes charm, history, and culture. It should be one of the top destinations you’re considering for a Madrid day trip. 

The star attraction in Segovia is the massive Roman aqueduct that cuts through the city’s heart. Thought to have been constructed around 115 A.D., standing in front of this gigantic architectural feat nearly 2000 years old is worth the trip to Segovia alone. 

However, the charm and beauty of the city don’t stop at the aqueduct. Next, you’ll want to head through the city’s historic Jewish Quarter and visit all of the major attractions along the main Calle Cervantes that cuts through the oldest part of the city.

You’ll see the Iglesia de San Martin church, Plaza Mayor, and Segovia’s cathedral , as well as the city’s old walls. 

Make sure to branch off and explore the side streets of the old Quarter, where you’ll find small mom-and-pop shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

Segovia is an easy trip from Madrid, and the AVE high-speed trains cover the distance in just around half an hour while taking a bus or driving can take double the time – or longer. You can catch one of these trains from the Charmartin train station in Madrid, and they depart hourly. 

You’ll also find inexpensive day trips from Madrid to Segovia and other nearby cities –  small group excursions to Segovia and Ávila  are popular, as well as  excursions to Segovia and Toledo .

If you’d rather just focus on enjoying this historic city, you can also book  a walking tour around the historic center  with an experienced guide. 

Think the stunning city of Seville in southern Spain is too far out of reach for a day trip from Madrid? Think again! While it takes about 5 hours to drive from Madrid to Seville, the high-speed  train from Madrid to Seville  that departs from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha station cuts travel time down to a little over two hours. 

Considered the most beautiful city in the stunning southern region of Andalusia, Seville is an unmissable highlight of Spain.

Home to the Real Alcázar of Seville, this royal palace is one of Spain’s most impressive examples of Mudéjar architecture that mixed Spanish and Moorish Muslim influences into a beautiful and ornate architectural style.

No matter what else you plan on doing in Seville,  book your ticket to the Real Alcázar in advance online ! You’ll be able to skip the (often very long!) lines and be assured you can visit – this is something you don’t want to miss!

In Seville, you can also visit highlights like the Giralda Tower and the Seville Cathedral, as well as visiting the Barrio de Triana, home to the famous Flamenco style of dance. If you’re looking for alternative things to do, take in  a traditional flamenco show  or  experience the city from the river on a river cruise . 

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4. El Escorial

One of Madrid’s most popular day trips is the monastery of El Escorial, also known as the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Located just an hour outside of Madrid, the monastery was built between 1563 and 1584 by King Phillip II to honor his father, Charles V.

Today El Escorial is one of the largest religious complexes in the world, housing a monastery, church, cloisters, and a royal palace and offices.

The complex is also home to an ornate library, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries , and thousands of illuminated manuscripts and thousands of historical books.

Guided  small group tours to El Escorial,  are among the most popular activities in Madrid. Coordinating guides and transportation, these organized visits will save you a lot of time and allow you to see the best of the monastery and its many buildings while returning to enjoy Madrid for the rest of the day.

If you’re planning on visiting without a guide, it’s still a good idea to pre- book your ticket online in advance . You’ll be able to skip the line – which can stretch on endlessly , especially during the high season – and make sure that you can enter the palace when you want and for the time you’d like.  

The former capital city of Spain , Toledo is one of the country’s most unique cities, with an incredible combination of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences, the likes of which are hard to find anywhere in Europe.

With a stunning historic center, including structures built in the Roman times, plus one of Spain’s most magnificent cathedrals, Toledo is an excellent (and easy!) day trip from Madrid.

A prominent feature of Toledo’s skyline is the Alcázar de Toledo, a former royal palace and fortress, now home to Toledo’s famous swords and armor, as the city was once well known for its blacksmiths.

The Toledo Cathedral is a must-visit, and make sure to climb the tower if the weather is nice for an unbeatable view over the city and the river below.

Toledo is just an hour outside of Madrid by train or bus, so it’s easy to reach on your own, and transportation options are abundant. Alternatively, book a  small group guided excursion to Toledo – these are very inexpensive, usually costing right around $25 for the whole day , which is less than you’d spend to get there yourself. 

If you’re not interested in a small group excursion, a  walking tour of Toledo  is a great way to see the very best of the city in a day while still being able to spend the rest of the day visiting the city at your leisure. 

If you’re planning to visit Toledo, you’ll want to make sure you pre-book your  Toledo Tourist Bracelet . This pass lets you into seven significant attractions in the city for just a few dollars , so you’ll save a lot of money over individually purchasing each ticket.

6. Zaragoza

Located between Madrid and Barcelona, Zaragoza is a thriving city full of Spanish charm, home to a unique cuisine, and has plenty to see and do. Definitely a contender for one of the best day trips from Madrid, you should be careful when visiting – you may wish you had planned to stay for a few more days!

There are many landmarks in the city worth seeing on a day trip from Madrid, including the Alifajería, which has some of the most beautiful Moorish architecture you’ll find anywhere in Spain , and the museum dedicated to Francisco de Goya, one of Spain’s most famous artists. 

The city oozes history around every corner, from the Roman amphitheater to the massive Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar church, the most prominent feature of Zaragoza’s skyline. 

In addition to taking in all of Zaragoza’s sites, you’ll also want to ensure you leave plenty of time to sample its unique cuisine. While Zaragoza is the capital city of Spain’s province of the same name, it is also the capital of an autonomous region of Spain called Aragon.

Its culinary legacy is strong, making  Zaragoza wine and tapas tours  some of the most popular activities for visitors to the city. 

You can easily reach Zaragoza from Madrid via high-speed AVE train in just over one hour, though the journey takes almost three hours by car or standard train. Trains are frequent , often leaving every hour, making this the most convenient way to reach this stunning Spanish city. 

7. Valladolid

Despite being the capital of Spain’s Castilla y Leon region and a beautiful city with history, culture, and great food, Valladolid is often overlooked by foreign travelers. Use this to your advantage and head to this charming city as a great Madrid day trip! 

Valladolid has a charming center, home to beautiful old churches like the famous Iglesia de San Pedro and the   Catedral de Valladolid. You’ll find plenty of pedestrian streets and shouldn’t need public transportation to explore the center quickly. 

As a university town, there is always something going on here: art shows or festivals, movie screenings, musical performances, and more.

Plaza Mayor often is home to events, or check out the  local cultural calendar to get an idea of what to look forward to when visiting.  

The city is also at the heart of one of Spain’s fantastic wine regions, so if you’re a wine lover, this might be a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Plan to visit a nearby vineyard – or several – for a tasting and to learn more about Spain’s winemaking. 

Valladolid is easily accessible from Madrid by bus or train, though taking the high-speed train will save you some travel time – the trip usually takes a little more than two hours, but less than one hour at high speed.

8. Salamanca

The historic city of Salamanca is another fabulous option for travelers looking for the best day trips from Madrid. Wandering the old city center, exploring and tasting your way through the Salamanca Central Market, and seeing the best of Salamanca is the perfect way to spend an engaging day in the city.

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Can’t picture traveling to visit a university? Founded in the 1200s, the university is home to an incredible mix of architectural styles, and you’ll marvel at the beauty of the university buildings and churches that are a part of the area.

Budget about two and a half hours to reach Salamanca, either by bus, car, or train. However, a daily high-speed train departs Madrid for Salamanca every morning around 8:30 AM, cutting traveling time down to an hour and a half.

If you’re interested in booking a small group excursion to Salamanca, you’ll find popular  day trips that include visits to both Salamanca and Ávila , a great chance to see two historic cities in one go. Alternatively, a  private guided excursion from Madrid to Salamanca  will let you enjoy the full day in this fabulous city. 

If you’d prefer to save money and travel to Salamanca on your own, a  walking tour with a guide  is a great way to learn the history and secrets of this incredible city. 

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The unique hilltop town of Cuenca, with its world-famous hanging houses, looks like it belongs among the famous hill towns of Tuscany rather than the hilly area surrounding Madrid.

Built atop the remains of a Muslim town and fortress dating back to the 700s, Cuenca is home to countless historic Christian churches, as well as a seminary, convent, and the Bishop’s Palace. Even if you’re not interested in visiting religious sites, this historic town on a hill has winding, centuries-old cobblestone streets, lovely buildings, delicious food, and much more to offer visitors. 

The Plaza Mayor and the Catedral de Cuenca are some of the star attractions within the historic center of the city – the cathedral’s unique facade is unforgettable, and its interior is well worth a visit as well.

For a better look at the city’s position on the hill, head to the Puente de San Pablo pedestrian bridge across the valley. While the original bridge collapsed in the early 1900s, the newer bridge is just as lovely for the incredible view of the hilltop city you’ll see from it. 

Consider using part of the day in Cuenca to learn about how this region of Spain is famous for its olive oil, and join in the olive oil-making process in a unique  olive oil “tour.” 

You’ll get to see firsthand how olive oil is made and taste fresh olive oil. This inexpensive class and taste test is an unexpected treat!

High-speed trains between Madrid and Cuenca will get you here in just over an hour , so the city is easily added as a half-day excursion or a full day if you’d like to take your time exploring and taking in the beauty and history of this unique hilltop town. 

10. Aranjuez

Located less than 40 minutes outside of Madrid and easily accessible by car, bus, or train, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez is well worth a day trip from Madrid, or even just a half-day excursion outside the city. 

The Royal Palace, built and rebuilt over centuries by Spanish royalty, is impressive. The palace’s interiors are stunning and well-preserved , and it is great fun to imagine the splendor of the kings and queens who once spent their springs and summers here.

The gardens are immense and include details like artificial lakes, countless fountains, pavilions, statues, and much more. 

You can book a  private tour to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez from Madrid , or take the train from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha train station – there are ten or more trains daily, so you should have no problem finding one to suit your schedule. 

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Madrid

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Feb 10, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Day trips outside Madrid offer a welcome break for tourists seeking a change of scenery and pace. After exploring Madrid's busy streets and the seemingly endless galleries of its art museums, tourists will enjoy breathing in the fresh air of the countryside and discovering smaller cities with a more relaxing atmosphere.

Within less than an hour's journey, travelers can escape to peaceful mountains, charming historic towns, and monumental royal palaces of the Castile region . Nearby are three UNESCO-listed sites : El Escorial, the 16th-century monastery-palace; the elegant historic town of Aranjuez; and the university town of Alcalá de Henares.

To admire typical Castilian architecture and experience the regional traditions, two exceptional places to visit are Manzanares el Real, famous for its castle, and Colmenar Viejo , known for bullfighting. Several destinations are in the beautiful Sierra de Guadarrama , including the Puerto de Navacerrada ski resort .

Not far south of Madrid is the UNESCO-listed medieval hilltop city of Toledo, and to the north are all the attractions of Segovia, with its magnificent Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle. Slightly farther away is the designated historic-artistic site of Sigüenza, with an impressive medieval castle that is now a luxury hotel.

Plan your excursions with this list of the top day trips from Madrid.

1. El Escorial Monastery and Palace

3. royal palace of aranjuez, 5. sigüenza, 6. alcalá de henares: the birthplace of cervantes, 7. the medieval fortress of manzanares el real, 8. colmenar viejo, 9. chinchón, 10. palacio real del pardo, 11. puerto de navacerrada ski resort, 12. guadalajara.

Tourists are pleasantly surprised by this idyllic retreat on the southern slopes of the Sierra de Guadarrama , just 50 kilometers outside of the Madrid metropolitan area. Nestled in the little town of San Lorenzo del Escorial (El Escorial) is the UNESCO-listed Royal Monastery and Palace of El Escorial. The immense monastery and palace complex, with its inestimable treasures of art, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Spain .

The monastery was built in the 16th century for Felipe II, who dedicated the monument to Saint Lawrence after the Spanish troops defeated the French in the Battle of Saint-Quentin on August 10, 1557. El Escorial was once a center of political power during the Spanish Empire.

From the outside, El Escorial appears more like a fortress than a monastery. The grayish granite complex was designed by Juan de Herrera; the architectural style, known as Herrerian, combines 16th-century Italian classicism with Spanish Baroque details.

Altogether, the grandiose complex has 15 courtyards, more than 2,000 windows, more than 1,000 doors, 86 staircases, 88 fountains, and 1,600 paintings. At its center is the twin-towered church with an awe-inspiring 90-meter-high dome.

Within the palace, the opulent Bourbon Suite includes the state apartments of Charles IV and Maria Luisa of Parma. These rooms display valuable 18th-century furniture, exquisite porcelain, and an enormous collection of more than 300 Spanish and Flemish tapestries.

El Escorial also has a renowned Picture Gallery with paintings by masters such as Guido Reni, Tintoretto, Veronese, José de Ribera, and Albrecht Dürer. Be sure to see Titian's Last Supper and Saint Jerome in Prayer , Hieronymus Bosch's The Crowning with Thorns , Marinus van Reymerswaele's The Money-Changers , and Diego Velázquez' Joseph's Robe . One of the important works is The Martyrdom of Saint Maurice by El Greco.

An easy way to explore the palaces and monastery, as well as see the nearby monuments of Valle de los Caídos, is on the El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour. This five-hour day trip from Madrid includes a local guide to provide historical background and point out the most important features, as well as transport by air-conditioned coach, and entrance fees. You can combine this with a half-day Madrid sightseeing tour.

Address: Calle Juan de Borbón y Battenberg, 28200 San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid

El Greco, the Spanish Renaissance artist who lived and worked here in the mid-16th century, created a celebrated landscape painting ( Vista de Toledo ) around 1598 to 1599 that captures the medieval hilltop city's captivating atmosphere.

The painting's somber colors and swirling clouds reveal the influence of mysticism, a commonly held spiritual point of view at the time. El Greco uses his imagination to depict the dark, moody feel of a city that is steeped in history.

Three cultures lived together in harmony and thrived in Toledo during the Middle Ages, and today Toledo's top attractions reflect the artistic and cultural legacies of all three: Islamic, Jewish, and Christian.

With the entire city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Toledo's medieval walls, churches, convents, synagogues, mosques, and labyrinth of narrow stone-paved streets transport visitors several centuries back in time.

Toledo is a one-hour train ride from Madrid, but an easier way to see the city and learn about its heritage is on the Toledo Half-Day or Full-Day Trip . The tour includes round-trip transportation and a walking tour through the city's cobblestone streets. You will have a chance to visit a 15th-century monastery and Santa María la Blanca, an ancient synagogue converted into a church. If you select the full-day tour, you will also walk to the Cathedral of Toledo to see the exterior.

Those who appreciate historic cities may want to stay overnight in Toledo, to more leisurely explore the wealth of cultural treasures. Sure to please the most discerning travelers, the four-star Parador de Toledo offers sweeping views of Toledo's cityscape and modern guest rooms with tiled floors, wood-beamed ceilings, and balconies. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and a traditional restaurant that specializes in dishes from the Castile-La Mancha region.

The UNESCO-listed city of Aranjuez boasts a remarkable cultural heritage. In the 16th century, Aranjuez was chosen as a site for the royal summer residence, and the Royal Palace was enhanced in the 18th and 19th centuries under the reigns of Philip V, Ferdinand VI, Charles III, and Charles IV

The historic town center dates to the 18th century and has been well preserved. The geometrically laid-out avenues, tree-lined squares, shaded groves, and Baroque gardens embody the orderly ideas of the Age of Enlightenment.

Surrounded by over 100 hectares of lush gardens, the Royal Palace was built for Philip II in 1560 but was rebuilt in the 1660s. The two-toned brick and stone façade exemplifies the elegant Neoclassical architecture favored by the House of Habsburg (a lineage of the Spanish royal family). The richly decorated interior displays valuable tapestries, fine porcelain, exceptional paintings, and exquisite objets d'art.

Particularly notable features of the palace are the magnificent staircase, the Chapel Royal by Sabatini, and the velvet-clad Throne Room . The dazzling Porcelain Room is lavishly decorated with ornate plaques of Buen Retiro porcelain depicting Chinese scenes, while the Chinese Room is adorned with 200 delicate paintings on rice paper, which were a gift of the Emperor of China to Queen Isabella II.

The Arabic Room was modeled on the Sala de Dos Hermanas of the Alhambra in Granada . Complimenting the beautiful architecture are lovely gardens. The grounds are filled with ancient plane trees, exotic plants, formal French-style landscaping, and statues of ancient Roman Emperors and gods.

About 47 kilometers south of Madrid, Aranjuez is easily accessible by train or car. The most memorable way to arrive is by taking the Strawberry Train (Tren de la Fresa). This restored 19th-century train features hostesses who dress in period costume and offer tastings of seasonal strawberries.

Departing from the Railway Museum in Madrid, the Strawberry Train runs on weekends in spring, summer, and autumn (through October). The scenic route travels past densely wooded forests and fertile farmlands.

Like Toledo, Segovia stands atop a hill, commanding panoramic views of the surrounding Castilian countryside from its Alcazar.

Among the top attractions of Segovia is a rare treasure: the Ancient Aqueduct built in 50 CE, one of the two largest existing Roman structures in Spain. Not only do 167 of its original arches remain, but they are completely intact.

A discovery of history continues in the romantic, winding streets of Segovia's Old Town : the Judería with its synagogues that were turned into Christian Churches after the Reconquista, its Romanesque churches, encircling defensive walls, and metal workshops.

A stress-free way to get to Segovia from Madrid is on the Avila and Segovia Sightseeing Tour . This full-day tour includes round-trip transportation from Madrid and walking tours of both UNESCO-listed cities. A local guide provides commentary on the local history and culture. There is an option for a traditional gastronomic lunch in Segovia.

An ancient city in the province of Guadalajara (131 kilometers from Madrid), Sigüenza has an outstanding cultural heritage, which has earned it designation as a Historic-Artistic Site . The town was ruled by the ancient Romans and then the Moors during the 8th century, and was reconquered by Bishop Bernardo de Agen (who hailed from France) in 1124.

Dominating the town is the imposing Castillo de Sigüenza , a 12th-century castle with massive crenelated fortifications. This exceptional National Monument has been converted to the Parador de Sigüenza , a four-star hotel restored in keeping with its historical character. Original architectural features include the stone walls and a cobblestone courtyard. Guest rooms are outfitted with traditional Castilian décor, providing the feel of staying in a palace.

In an elegant dining room with forest views, the Parador de Sigüenza Restaurant serves cuisine of the Castile and La Mancha regions. The menu focuses on traditional local specialties such as migas (bread and meat stew seasoned with paprika) and bizcocho borracho (cake soaked in flavored syrup). The restaurant also hosts Opera Nights and Zarzuela performances.

For those who enjoy Relais & Châteaux accommodations, it is worth spending the night at the Molino de Alcuneza in the countryside outside of Sigüenza (about a 10-minute drive). This charming boutique hotel occupies a renovated 15th-century flour mill, set in a peaceful bucolic setting. Beautiful gardens beside a gurgling stream, an outdoor swimming pool, and an upscale spa add to the pampering experience.

An acclaimed chef at the Molino de Alcuneza's Michelin-starred restaurant prepares creative seasonal cuisine from locally sourced ingredients. Proud to be part of a new artisanal bread movement in Europe, the restaurant serves seven types of handcrafted organic bread, made using traditional flours milled from heirloom whole grains. The hotel actually utilizes its restored 500-year-old mill for this purpose, and the grains are grown by a local farmer.

The atmospheric old streets of Sigüenza reveal a treasure trove of historic buildings. A must-see sight is the Plaza Mayor , a Renaissance-era market square lined with Casas de los Canónigos (lovely houses featuring decorative balconies).

The fortress-like Catedral de Sigüenza was built after the Reconquest beginning in 1130. Originally Romanesque in style, the cathedral has a Gothic ribbed-vaulted nave with rose windows completed in the 16th century. The Capilla del Doncel (chapel) holds the tomb of Don Martín Vázquez de Arce, the young knight ("El Doncel") of Sigüenza, as well as an impressive sacristy.

The Capilla de la Anunciación is renowned for its Mudéjar design elements, while the Sacristía de las Cabezas features an intricately decorated Renaissance ceiling covered with innumerable medallions of faces and angels.

To delve deeper into the town's cultural heritage, visit the Diocesan Museum , which displays an exceptional collection of religious art housed in a Neoclassical palace. The collection spans the 12th to 20th centuries with an outstanding assortment of paintings, sculpture, altarpieces, textiles, manuscripts, and archaeological finds. Highlights include paintings by Spanish masters such as the Inmaculada by Zurbarán and the Assumption by El Greco.

One of the most interesting things to do as a day trip from Madrid is riding the Medieval Train from Madrid's Chamartín station to Sigüenza. This special train service includes entertainment of troubadour songs, a sampling of traditional regional cuisine, and informative commentary from "knights" about towns you'll see along the way. The train ride takes 80 minutes and runs on certain Saturdays in May, June, September, and October.

About 35 kilometers from the Madrid city center, the UNESCO-listed town of Alcalá de Henares has a prestigious pedigree as the birthplace of Cervantes, author of Don Quixote , and the Emperor Ferdinand I.

The town also boasts a famous university, the Universidad de Alcalá de Henares , founded by Cardinal Jiménez de Cisneros in 1498. The most impressive university building, the Colegio de San Ildefonso (Plaza de San Diego) epitomizes Spanish Renaissance architecture with its Plateresque façade created in 1543.

Not to be missed is the 16th-century Magisterial-Cathedral , one of two Magisterial churches in the world (the other is Saint Peter's in Louvain, Belgium ). This Flamboyant Gothic monument was built on the site where child saints Justo and Pastor were martyred.

For general tourist information, head to the Visitor Center (Plaza de Cervantes) housed at the site of the parish church of Santa María la Mayor. Although the church has been demolished, the site is significant because Miguel de Cervantes was baptized at this location on October 9th, 1547. The visitor center displays a copy of Cervantes' certificate of baptism.

The main artery of the town and center of social life is the Calle Mayor . This bustling pedestrian street has arcades filled with many restaurants, cafés, pastry shops, and little boutiques.

The Cervantes Birthplace Museum , at 48 Calle Mayor, is a 20th-century reproduction of the 16th-century house where Cervantes was born. The house is furnished with period décor of the mid-16th to early-17th century (the era that Cervantes lived) and contains mementos of the author.

A short walk from the Cervantes Museum is the Parador de Alcalá de Henares . This luxurious four-star hotel occupies the former college of a 17th-century monastery, which has been renovated in modern minimalist style and updated with an upscale spa.

In its sleek dining room, the Restaurante Parador de Alcalá de Henares serves a blend of modern and classic Castilian cuisine. Specialities of the restaurant include migas alcalaínas (paprika-spiced sausage fritters), chickpea stew, croquettes, suckling pig, and piononos ( sponge cake rolls topped with cream). On the anniversary of Cervantes' birth, the restaurant hosts a special event: Cervantes Culinary Days .

The historic village of Manzanares El Real is nestled in a picturesque valley of the Sierra de Guadarrama , a majestic mountain range that is protected as a national park. Manzanares El Real is an easy day trip from Madrid, just a 50-kilometer drive away.

Manzanares El Real is one of the best places to visit in Spain to admire a medieval fortress. The well-preserved Castillo de Manzanares El Real has a formidable look, with its crenelated defenses and imposing cylindrical towers. The monument exemplifies 15th-century Castilian military architecture. Massive ramparts with arrow slits were designed to fend off invaders.

The Castillo de Manzanares El Real displays 17th-century tapestries, as well as historic furnishings and paintings. This impressive landmark is also one of the most frequently used film sets in Europe. To immerse visitors in the monument's medieval ambience and history, the castle presents costumed theatrical performances.

Other noteworthy attractions in Manzanares El Real are the 13th-century Romanesque church, Iglesia de Santa María de la Nava; the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Nieves , a 15th-century church with a Romanesque-style nave; and the Ethnological and Archaeological Museum in the Casa de la Cultura (Calle Cañada), which houses a rich collection of artifacts found in the region.

Set on a hilltop one kilometer outside the village, the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Peña Sacra is a 15th-century hermitage with splendid views of La Pedriza del Manzanares mountains. Nature lovers will want to explore the beautiful surroundings by taking one of the walking paths, either from the village to Santillana Reservoir or from the village to Peña Sacra Hermitage.

About 35 kilometers away from Madrid, the town of Colmenar Viejo is surrounded by cattle ranches in the rural area of the Sierra de Guadarrama .

Colmenar Viejo has two interesting cultural attractions. In a traditional 17th-century house, the Casa-Museo de la Villa presents a diverse assortment of museum collections including history, ethnography, and archaeology. The Centro Cultural Pablo Ruiz Picasso hosts interesting temporary exhibitions of modern art.

The town's religious and artistic heritage is best seen in the Basílica de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora , built between the 15th and 16th centuries. The richly decorated façade features intricate sculptural details, while the 50-meter-high tower is elaborately embellished with a carved stonework spire in the Castilian style.

Inside, visitors are awed by the spacious high-vaulted sanctuary and the gilded Plateresque high altar. The basilica houses a museum of sacred art.

To round out a tour of the town's religious monuments, tourists should also visit the lovely 17th-century Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios , a lovely and serene hermitage built on the site of an ancient shrine of the 7th century.

Every year at the end of January or in early February, the town hosts a traditional folk festival ( La Vaquilla ) that celebrates the cattle migration. Cows adorned with ribbons, paper flowers, rosettes, manila shawls, and jewels are paraded through town.

Just 20 kilometers northeast of Aranjuez is the little Castilian town of Chinchón, surrounded by olive orchards. The central focus of the town is the Plaza Mayor , which is enclosed by handsome historic houses with shaded balconies. The Plaza Mayor also has many small cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Chinchón is known for its summer program of cultural events including plays and concerts. The town has also hosted bullfights since the 16th century and still continues the tradition.

For the best view of the entire town, head to the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción . This splendid church displays the Assumption of the Virgin Mary painting, a masterpiece by Goya.

An easy day trip destination, the Palacio Real del Pardo is only 15 kilometers from the Madrid city center. This stately palace was built on the site of a royal hunting lodge, located here because the El Pardo hills were prized hunting grounds. In the 16th century, Charles V completely rebuilt the palace, and after a fire in 1604 it was restored by Phillip III.

Tourists may purchase admission tickets (Tuesday through Sunday) to visit the interior of the palace, which is decorated with precious tapestries, delicate frescoes, and noteworthy paintings. The palace displays masterpieces of art by Titian and Goya, among others.

Set in delightful grounds, the palace is a pleasant place to visit and relax. Neoclassical gardens are laid out on two terraces with ornamental pools and gushing fountains. Formal French-style landscaping, statues, and decorative urns add to the beauty. Many fruit trees, especially cherry trees, bloom during springtime.

Address: Calle de Manuel Alonso, 28048, Madrid

Puerto de Navacerrada is the closest ski resort to Madrid , 60 kilometers away (and 72 kilometers from Segovia). The Puerto de Navacerrada resort is found in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains at an altitude of 1,858 meters.

The vast terrain of more than 10,000 kilometers is divided into two areas for different ability levels: The lower area has beginner to intermediate slopes, and the upper area has intermediate to advanced slopes. They are well-sheltered pistes, running between pine woods.

The resort has a ski school, ski equipment rentals, many restaurants, and plenty of hotel options. The picturesque village of Navacerrada is also worth exploring. The resort is easily accessible by car or train.

Standing proudly along the Henares River, the town of Guadalajara has a long illustrious history tied to the Dukes of El Infantado. A fascinating aristocratic legacy is seen in the town's superb monuments.

Tourists should be sure to visit the Palacio de los Duques del Infantado , the most emblematic landmark in Guadalajara. The palace was built in the 15th century in Gothic style with Mudéjar (Spanish Islamic-style) details. The 5th Duke of El Infantado renovated the palace in Renaissance fashion, with balconies on the façade, and commissioned splendid frescoes in several rooms.

The Museum of Guadalajara displays its collections of fine arts, archaeology, and ethnography in a section of the Palacio del Infantado that is adorned with 16th-century frescoes. The majority of the fine arts collection represents religious artworks.

Also a must-see sight, the Concatedral de Santa María de la Fuente was built in the 13th century on the site of an old Moorish mosque. The cathedral's façade features Renaissance renovations, and the interior was enhanced with a glorious 17th-century cupola.

Another important religious building is the Capilla de Luis de Lucena . This unusual little chapel blends Romanesque and Mudéjar architectural elements.

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11 Best Day Trips From Madrid + How to Plan Them

The best day trips from Madrid will give you a taste of Spain, showing you its beauty, history, and charm. 

As the capital city of Spain, Madrid definitely isn’t lacking in sights to see and things to do . From the museums to the extensive shopping on Gran Via to the alternative neighbourhoods full of independent restaurants and cafes, there’s something for everyone.

But if you have the time to step outside of this metropolis, you could spend many more days exploring the satellite towns surrounding it.

On my first visit, I knew I couldn’t leave without taking at least one day trip from Madrid. I researched the absolute best Madrid day trips, asking my local friends and Google.

In the end, I did several day trips, each with their own unique history and things to see!

Since there are even more than I could do, I asked my fellow bloggers for their best day trips from Madrid too.

So here are our recommendations for 11 great day trips from Madrid!

Day trip to Toledo from Madrid

Toledo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and it’s now one of the most visited places in Spain.

If you want to take the best day trip from Madrid, then Toledo rates at the top of all of the must-see lists.

Toledo’s history stretches back to the Roman occupation, and traces of Roman and Muslim history can be found throughout the town.

Toledo was the capital of Spain after the reconquest in 1085CE until the mid-1500s when it changed to Madrid.

Toledo has a number of historical religious buildings, and you can purchase a Toledo Pass to visit the religious buildings and take a tour. But in my opinion, your one day in Toledo is best spent wandering the medieval streets.

It is claimed that Marzipan (the almond sweets made into shapes and baked in the oven, not the soft Marzipan put on cakes) was invented in Toledo by nuns around 1150.

It’s available in stores around Toledo, but you can also buy Marzipan directly from Convents, where it is still made by the nuns who live there. You just have to know which doorbells to ring!

I went to Monasterio de San Clemente and Monasterio de Mochas Comemdadoras de Santiago and bought something from both, and I have to say the treats are delicious!

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

The train from Madrid Atocha station to Toledo takes half an hour and costs approximately €26 euros return.

From the Toledo train station, you need to take the bus from just outside the station gates to the right (number 5, 61, or 62) until the last stop. The bus costs around €2.

The bus from Madrid to Toledo is much cheaper at around €10 from the Plaza Eliptica Station. You will also need to take another bus to get into town.

Check our organised tours here.

Day trip to Ávila from Madrid

A day trip to Ávila from Madrid is a step back in time.

Ávila is known for its city walls, and although the original foundations of the walls date back to the Roman time, the current construction above ground is from the Middle Ages. However, many of the same materials used originally were used in rebuilding the walls.

The walls span 2.5km and have 9 entrances and defensive gates, with 88 different watchtowers.

Ávila was first a military outpost, which then turned into a city. At one time, it was bustling and densely populated, but an epidemic of cholera in the 1700s reduced the population, filled by the industrial revolution.

Tourism is now the principal industry of Ávila, like many of the villages surrounding Madrid, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Cathedral in Ávila is built into the city wall. It was built across a wide space of time, reflected in the Romanic style up to the windows and the Gothic style further above. The two towers that were planned never materialised, and only one can be seen.

Ávila was the birthplace of Santa Teresa in 1515. She was a prominent author and theologist during the counter-reformation.

You can visit the place of her birth and baptism, see where she played as a child, and if you really want to (I didn’t) see a relic of her finger!

Also, like Toledo, Ávila is famous for a particular kind of food, this time “Yemas”, which are a small, round sweet made from egg yolks, lemon juice, and cinnamon.

Although they can be found across Spain, Yemas de Santa Teresa, or Yemas de Ávila, are the number one souvenir from here and something you should definitely pick up on a day trip to Avila.

How to get to Avila from Madrid

The train from Madrid Atocha station to Ávila is a similar price to Toledo, at approximately €23 euros return. It’s an easy day trip by train from Madrid! The bus from Madrid to Ávila is around €16 euros return.  

Check out organised tours to Avila.

Day trip to Segovia from Madrid

Segovia is another UNESCO World Heritage Site (do you sense a theme?) that has several unique landmarks and makes a fantastic day trip from Madrid.

The most impressive landmark is the Roman Viaduct. It was built by the Romans around 1 Century AD (yes, that old), and although it hasn’t been used fully since 1908, it still works today! The aqueduct is built entirely from stone, with no concrete or anything holding it together.

During the Middle Ages, Segovia was known for its wool and tapestry production, with wool made here being sent all over Europe.

The city was one of the King’s favourites, and he used to live in the castle called the Alcazar. This is now another of the main attractions in Segovia, with its unique architecture actually being the base for the castle at Disneyland in LA.

As far as food goes, Segovia is especially famous for its roasted suckling pig. There is even a statue of a pig in the Cathedral!

Be sure to visit one of the restaurants in Segovia offering this special kind of pork that is so tender it can be sliced with a plate.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid

You can take an AVE high-speed train from Madrid to Segovia in half an hour, and it costs around €20 return, making it one of the cheaper options for a day trip from Madrid.

Although there is a bus from Madrid to Segovia, it’s not much cheaper, and it’ll take much longer than the train. I first visited Avila and Segovia as part of a combined tour from Madrid .

Day trip to Salamanca from Madrid

By James from This Travel Guide  

Salamanca is one of the most picturesque cities in Spain, and definitely worth a day trip if you’re staying in nearby Madrid.

It has several beautiful attractions that are worth seeing, and the lively Spanish and international population mean that life here is continually vibrant and colourful.

The main places to visit in Salamanca are the Plaza Major, the Old Cathedral of Salamanca, Convento de San Esteban, Salamanca University, and the Casa de las Conchas.

If you’re lucky enough to stay here until the later hours of the evening, it’s also a fantastic place to go for tapas and to experience Spanish nightlife.

You’ll find places to eat and drink throughout the city centre, but the best spots are a ten-minute walk from the city centre on Calle Van Dyck. This is an entire street of bars and restaurants, and it’s one of the most popular places for locals to go out.

You’ll find everyone from students and language exchange internationals to families and older generations, all eating here and soaking in the late evening Spanish atmosphere.

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid

The easiest way to get to Salamanca from Madrid is by car, and the journey takes just a little over an hour and a half.

However, it’s also possible to travel by train, and the journey can be as fast as one hour and forty minutes from Madrid Chamartín Station about €35.

Check our organised tours to Salamanca.

Day trip to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid

By Elaine & David from The Whole World is a Playground 

Located just northwest of Madrid, the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial sprung up in the 16th Century around the stunning Monastery of El Escorial.

Visitors flock to San Lorenzo de El Escorial to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monastery of El Escorial, and it is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid.

The monastery is an incredible sight both inside and out. Its exterior features an astonishing 2,600 windows and 1,200 doors, while the interior houses an incredible art collection and stunning frescoes.

The library, housing over 40,000 books and a fresco-covered ceiling, is an incredible sight.

The Royal Parthenon is also breathtaking and contains 26 gold and marble tombs which are the resting place of every monarch since the 16th century.

The quaint little town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is full of quirky shops and traditional restaurants.

If you have time, the hike to the Silla de Felipe in the hills surrounding San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a beautiful walk. Also known as Philip’s Seat, it is said to be where he sat as he watched the construction of the monastery below and now offers great views of the monastery.

The controversial Valley of the Fallen Civil War monument is also close to the town.

How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid

There are frequent buses from the Inetercambiador de Moncloa Metro station, with bus 664 dropping passengers close to the monastery.

On weekends a vintage Philip II sightseeing train, the Tren de Felipe II, departs from the Principe Pio train station in Madrid.

Check out organised tours.

Day trip to Aranjuez from Madrid

By Elaine and Dave from Show Them the Globe

Located just south of Madrid, Aranjuez is a popular tourist town which is home to one of Spain’s most beautiful palaces, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez.

The palace has hosted Spanish Queens and Kings every spring for centuries, and Aranjuez is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of its stunning gardens and architectural design.

Most visitors to Aranjuez are drawn by the 18th Century Royal Palace, and it is possible to explore the palace interior by oneself or by joining a guided tour.

The highlights are the main staircase and chandelier, the Porcelain Room with its marble floor and Chinese-style ceramics and the Arabic room with its gold beehive ceiling and stalactite arches.

The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens which are modelled on Versailles and are a real treat to visit. Jardin del Principe is the largest and includes Chinese and Botanical Gardens, while Casa del Labrador is one of the most impressive buildings from the Bourbon Dynasty and requires a palace ticket to visit.

Across the River Tajo, the formal Jardin de la Isla is renowned for its box hedges and Greek mythology fountains.

As well as visiting the spectacular palace, we loved wandering around the Old Quarter of Aranjuez, which is also worth a visit. It features beautiful houses with spectacular courtyards, balconies, squares, and domes.

How to get to Aranjuez from Madrid

The regular commuter C3 train from Madrid Atocha Cercanias to Aranjuez takes 44 min and runs frequently. The palace is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the train station.

Day trip to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid

By Tom from Travel Past 50  

If you, like I do, think that Don Quixote is one of the greatest books ever written, then you have to visit the hometown of its author Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares.

Alcalá de Henares is the center of all things Cervantes. His alma mater, the University of Alcalá, awards the annual Cervantes Prize for the best Spanish language literature.

The entire old part of Alcalá, which surrounds the university campus, is the Unesco World Heritage Site.

You can admire the medieval columns which line a walk in front of the old buildings. You can visit numerous churches, the archbishop’s palace, the cathedral, Cervantes’ birthplace, and more.

Of particular interest is the ceiling of the University’s “Room of the Nymphs,” which is a small auditorium where students take their final oral exams and where the Cervantes Prize is awarded.

Another bit of history worth noting is that the University of Alcalá was the first meeting place of Christopher Columbus and King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel where they discussed his plans for his voyage of discovery.

Finally, another distinguishing characteristic of Alcalá is that, because of the nearby abundance of food and nesting material, the towers of the city have been adopted by about 90 pairs of white storks. These storks are perhaps the city’s most known tourist attraction.

How to get to Acalá from Madrid

Alcalá is located about 35 kilometres northwest of Madrid and is easily reached in about 40 minutes on Madrid’s Cercanias train lines at a cost of €8 return.

Day trip to Valle de los Caidos from Madrid

By David from Delve into Europe

El Valle de los Caidos – the Valley of the Fallen – is an essential stop for anyone with an interest in recent Spanish history, especially the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship which followed.

El Valle is ostensibly a memorial to those who lost their lives on both sides during the Spanish Civil War.

It’s a vast underground church that is the burial place of General Franco himself and Primo de Rivera, founder of the Falange party which Franco led. It is one of the most divisive places to visit in Spain, somewhere that still generates controversy over 40 years after Franco died.

It’s a bizarre site to visit. You can see the gigantic hilltop stone cross marking the site of the church from miles away in a valley in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains north of Madrid.

The church is cut into the rock below the cross, an austere underground tunnel with giant stone angels staring at each other from either side. At the far end are the graves of Franco and de Rivera, watched over constantly by security guards.

Spain is still dealing with the consequences of the actions of the Franco regime over 40 years later, which include the removal of children from the families of Republicans and those deemed opponents of Franco.

My own feeling, despite all the show of it being a holy Catholic church, is that it is really all about Franco rather than any god or fallen soldier from the other side.

How to get to Valle de los Caidos from Madrid

You can visit El Valle on a day trip from Madrid. You need to get a train to San Lorenzo de El Escorial, from where there is one bus (marked ‘El Valle’) each day, leaving at 3.15 pm and returning to San Lorenzo at 5.30 pm. Admission to the site is €9.

Day trip to Cuenca from Madrid

Cuenca is a city that truly defies gravity, at least in the old town area.

Its steep cobbled streets and houses perched high above the Huécar gorge make it a unique day trip from Madrid. And it’s not surprising it’s a World Heritage Listed!

The city was built to be in a defensive position, with walls and a medieval castle, and many of the houses in a precarious position along the edge of the gorge cliff and have been beautifully preserved.

Although I’m not sure I’d like to stand on one of the protruding wooden balconies!

Other than crossing the Puente de San Pablo across the gorge to wander the streets of the historic town, you can also visit the New Cathedral with its blue-tiled domes that are visible around the city, the older Cathedral, which is the first Gothic Cathedral in Spain, or one of the many museums.

The tunnels of Alfonso are passages underneath the Old Town, but it’s only possible to visit them on a Monday or by pre-arrangement if you have a group of 20 or more.

Cuenca is really one of those places where you just have to wander around, without any aim in particular, making it perfect for a one-day trip.

Note, however, that many places may be closed for siesta between 2 pm and 4 pm, so it’s worth planning your day around this.

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid

Trains from Cuenca to Madrid take around 2 hours and 50 minutes from Atocha Station. You can buy tickets in advance or on the day for around €40.

From the station in Cuenca, you can take a taxi for around €12 euros to the historic area or a bus for €1.25. It does make for quite a long day trip from Madrid, so you could also consider staying overnight.

Day trip to Consuegra from Madrid

Conseguía has been known for its windmills since the 16th century. If you’ve read Don Quixote, then you might know that the windmills in La Mancha played a part in the 17th-century novel.

There were originally 13 windmills here, 12 of which have now been restored, and you can take a tour through.

In October, the fields around Conseugra turn purple thanks to the saffron flowers that the city is also known for.

It’s possible to visit both Toledo and Consuegra on a day trip from Madrid or stay in Toledo and continue to Consuegra the next day.

How to get to Conseugra from Madrid

A day trip to Conseugra from Madrid is only possible by bus or car as there are no train services.

The most regular bus route is run by the Samar company from Madrid’s Mendez Alvaro bus station. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and is about €11.

From Toledo, you can also take Samar buses, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours.

If you have a car, it will only take about 1.5 hours to reach Consuegra from Madrid.

Day trip to Chinchón from Madrid

Chinchón is mostly known for its central plaza, Plaza Mayor, a garlic festival in the autumn, and an anise-flavoured liquor festival in spring. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy traditional food and wander the streets.

Start your day in Plaza Mayor, which is actually round in shape and framed by lovely historical white and green buildings with balconies, before wandering down one of the many streets off it. Keep an eye out for the different medallions of Jesus on the doors.

If you go as far as the clock tower a short distance away, you’ll be rewarded with a view back over the city centre and the plaza from above.

Look out for shops selling local garlic and anise liquor, as well as the local sweet speciality of fresh homemade donuts filled with cream.

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid

The bus from Madrid leaves every hour or half hour during the week (a little less frequently on the weekends) and only takes around 45 minutes. You’ll be dropped off in the centre of Chinchón, just a short walk from Plaza Mayor.

Should you take a tour for a day trip near Madrid, or go on your own?

It won’t take you long to realise there are plenty of tours from Madrid offering to take you on day trips to Toledo, Avila, and Segovia, among others.

For day trips from Madrid to most destinations, I like to go on my own.

Train tickets to popular destinations can sell out, so it’s worth planning in advance. Going on your own allows you to explore the place at your own pace and see what you’d like to. Plus, if you want to capture something like the sunset at Toledo, then you have the freedom to do so!

However, you can also consider a tour because this can take the stress out of planning on your own and give you the opportunity to see more than one place in one day . That’s not something that’s easy to achieve on your own!

There are plenty of things to see in Madrid, but if you have time to spare, then taking a day trip from Madrid will allow you to see some smaller Spanish towns that have their own unique culture and stunning landmarks.

Have you taken any great day trips from Madrid or been to these places before?

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Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

26 thoughts on “ 11 Best Day Trips From Madrid + How to Plan Them ”

I love your suggestions. We visited Madrid for the first time earlier this year and took an overnight trip to Toledo. There’s a completely different, even more laid-back atmosphere on an evening and we found some great tapas bars. I’m looking forward to planning another visit and this adding Avila to the itinerary, I’d not realised it was possible to do in a day. Thanks for the ideas!

I can imagine overnight in Toledo would be even better! I wish I’d had the time. If I go back to Madrid soon then I’ll definitely try and stay there. You’re welcome!

Before I start off, that first photo is just beyond gorgeous. I love the comprehensive guide too. Spain is on my travel bucket list and I could a few more to my list from this post.

Thank you so much! Hopefully you make it over here soon. There’s so much to see the list might get very long haha.

All three of those look like great side trips! We always think we don’t want a guide, but then when we get one, we love it. You learn so much from a tour.

It’s so true! I’m quite often against having a guide but I think when you go for a short time it can really enhance your experience because you just can’t find out that information for yourself that quickly. Being able to learn so much about the history and then be taken exactly where we needed to go, then left to wander around more was just perfect.

Thanks for the detailed and informative post. You’re right that often we plan our trips where the city remains are focus and we miss out on so many places around it that are as lovely and vibrant. Avila and Toledo look amazing and hope some day I can get there.

You’re welcome! I always try to add an extra day or two for a day trip if I can. There’s usually some real gems near big cities!

Love you suggestions. Often people don’t go to these nearby places specially. So, when visiting madrid, it’s good to know where to head to when there are few spare days at hand.

Thanks! I agree there are usually some fantastic places close to big cities, and it’s definitely worth trying to visit them.

Great post! The views are spectacular and to have a few extra days to explore would be perfect. There’s something to be said about seeing the city from a native’s perspective, than a tourist’s, too!

Exactly! I’d love to have spent even more time in these places, but a day trip at least gave me the chance to get an overview.

These are great ideas. We are visiting Madrid in June 2017 and will have a hire car so I will definitely be checking one or more of these places out! I love the look of the roman viaduct in Segovia.

Having a car will make it much easier to see a lot more of the great places surrounding Madrid! I was so amazed at how big it was! Hope you have an amazing trip.

These are great ideas for day trips and could really help you maximize your time whilst your in Spain. And a great way to fill in a few days with something different after you’ve explored the busy city of Madrid!

Definitely! They are easy to do in a day and it’s so nice to see some smaller places so close to such a huge place like Madrid!

Wow Avila looks so beautiful and I love the old walls and castles surrounding the place. It reminds me of York but only on a grander scale. Segovia also looks like a wonderful place to stop and visit, I love them both. Toledo looks nice as well but the other two are at the top of my list!

That’s so true I never thought of it being a bit like York too! They all have their merits but Toledo might have been my favourite haha.

I only spent two short days in Madrid last summer to catch a plane home. We drove by Avila on our way there from Porto and I just couldn’t believe my eyes! I would also love to visit Toledo. We learned in university that the first translation school was in Toledo (or something like that)!

Avila is really stunning especially from the outside! There was so much history in Toledo I found it really incredible, so I wouldn’t be surprised at all to learn that!

I have been to Spain three time but never made it to Madrid. You post has me rethinking that. We are in the bey early stages of planning and eight week Europe trip. Thanks for the inspiration!

You’re welcome! Hopefully you might make it this time! I have been living in Spain since January and I only just went now! There’s a lot to see there and close by, so I’d recommend a few days if you can spare it 🙂

Wow they are all stunning and pretty. Toledo is awesome and i love the way how you took those photos especially the reflection of the building in the water.

Thank you! It was lucky I was there at the right time because when I returned the water had been drained a lot. I think they fill and drain it all day so you can see it in a different way.

Hi, I’d like to do two day trips during my visit to Spain in October this year, hope you can give me some ideas & advice? My thinking is Toledo, Segovia or maybe Toledo & Montsareet ?? I know there are more, so please feel free to suggest otherwise. I can be flexible and willing to see different things.

Thank you so much!

Hi Christine! Thanks for your comment. I’d highly recommend any of the three in this post, and you can do Segovia and Avila in one day if you like, then Toledo in another! That way you’d see 3 places within your two days. If you mean Montserrat that’s actually much closer to Barcelona, so if you’re headed there too I’ve heard amazing things, but the train from Madrid is over 3 hours so it wouldn’t be a great trip from there!

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17 Best Day Trips from Madrid & How to Plan Them

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: December 14, 2022

Home >> Destinations >> 17 Best Day Trips from Madrid & How to Plan Them

There is so much to do in Spain’s capital, we recommend at least three days in Madrid . However, Madrid also makes an excellent base for some of Spain’s best day trips.

Using Spain’s excellent high-speed train system, it is possible to visit some of the best attractions on day trips from Madrid. So while at least three days in Madrid is optimal, a few days extra will allow you to access some of the country’s most incredible cities and attractions.

Table of Contents

How to Get Around

Each day trip listed has information on how to get there, or we recommend tours that might make better sense or offer exceptional value.

The train is usually the best way to travel around Spain – this is the case with many of these day trips. However, some of the best day trips from Madrid are better if done by car. Driving allows you to visit multiple towns or cities in one day where they are close. It also allows you the flexibility of exploring the magnificent countryside, wine regions and smaller towns where transport may be tricky.

Car hire from Madrid is very reasonable – Discover Cars search for the best rates in Madrid with prices as little as €75 for two days in a small car – perfect for navigating Madrid city and the small towns and cities. See here to compare car rental rates .

Search the Best Accommodation Deals in Madrid

The Best Day Trips from Madrid

San lorenzo de el escorial monastery and palace.

1 hr from Madrid | 58 km | Unesco Listed Palace

Less than an hour from Madrid, nestled in the southern slopes of the  Sierra de Guadarrama , is the quaint 16th-century town of San Lorenzo del Escorial (El Escorial). It is home to the  UNESCO-listed  Royal Monastery and Palace of El Escorial.

Just one of Spain’s many UNESCO sites, the Royal Monastery and Palace of El Escorial hold great significance. One of the most popular day trips from Madrid, The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is easy to access. The town also offers visitors a lot to see in the way of charming shops and traditional restaurants.  

Initially conceived as a monastery in the 16th century and a mausoleum for the royal family, the royal residence grew to include a basilica, a library containing over 40,000 books, two royal palaces and magnificent halls and gardens. 

The Pantheon of the Kings is a highlight – the remains of every monarch since the 16th century are laid to rest in breathtaking gold and marble tombs.

The nearby Valley of the Fallen is worth a stop to see the  controversial Civil War Monument . An enormous 150-meter cross towers over a basilica which Dictator  Francisco Franco  claimed was a “national act of atonement” and reconciliation.

If You Have Time : Combine this with a trip to Toledo, Segovia or Salamanca, which are within easy reach. 

Tour Recommendation : If you prefer to visit San Lorenzo de El Escorial with a guided tour, you can take an El Escorial and Valley’s Basilica Half-Day Tour from Madrid . The five-hour tour includes return transport, guides, and entry to the Monastery, royal monuments, the Valley of the Fallen and the Basilica with audio guides. See here for full tour details .

For a full-day tour that combines two historical sites, try the  Toledo and El Escorial tour from Madrid , recommended below.  

How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. Take bus lines 661 and 664 from the Moncloa transport hub. The 664 bus is the most direct and drops you very close to the monastery. 
• Train:  Approximately 1 hr. Take the regional train C8a from Atocha station. It is around a 10-minute walk to the monastery. 
• Car:  Approx. Fifty-five minutes from central Madrid.

1 hour from Madrid | 74 km | UNESCO Site and   Moorish Architecture

One of the most popular day trips from Madrid and one of Spain’s most visited UNESCO sites, there are plenty of reasons to visit Toledo.

Called the “City of Three Cultures”, Toledo is a rare city where Islamic, Hebrew and Christian faiths lived and co-existed harmoniously. The influence of its successive Christian, Muslim, and Jewish occupants reflected in the architectural, cultural and artistic legacies.

Visitors can trace this fascinating history within the medieval walls, exploring the narrow cobbled streets to discover a magnificent array of churches, convents, monasteries, synagogues, and mosques.

Situated on a hill with sweeping views of the Río Tajo, the Alcázar is a must-see. See the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Toledo and the oldest standing synagogue in Europe, Santa Maria la Blanca. Visit the EL Greco Museum to learn about the great Spanish Renaissance artist El Greco who was granted artistic sanctuary in Toledo. 

Toledo also has a long history of creating prized forged steel throughout history and continues to produce swords and armour, including for Hollywood productions. Take a tour of the steel forge for a very different view of Toledo’s history. 

Don’t Miss : Enjoy the traditional Marzipan sweets invented by the nuns of Toledo around 1150. You can find them in local stores or buy them directly from the convents where nuns still make them. Try the Monasterio de San Clemente or Monasterio de Mochas Comemdadoras de Santiago. 

Tour Tip : The full-day  Toledo and El Escorial tour from Madrid  includes two historic sites in one day, visiting all the major attractions, and a demonstration of the famous damascened technique – the inlaying of precious metals in steel and the forging of swords.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. from Plaza Eliptica bus station. You will need to get the metro to the bus station from Madrid.
• Train:  30 minutes to 1 hr, depending on the service. Trains depart from Atocha Station in Madrid. The Toledo train station is outside the historic centre. You can take a bus (number 5, 61, or 62), a taxi, or a leisurely 25-minute walk to the historic centre.  
• Car:  Approx. 1 hr from central Madrid.

La Mancha 

1.40 hrs driving or bus 2.5 hrs  |  132 km to Consuegra | Historical Route, wine region, natural heritage

La Mancha is the stunning wine region in central Spain that provided the setting for the adventures of the famous 17th century literary hero  Don Quixote of La Mancha  by Cervantes.

Spain’s most prominent wine region and one of the largest wine-producing regions in the world, La Mancha, is where hundreds of wineries thrive, using traditional winemaking methods, despite challenging growing conditions.

Follow the steps of Don Quixote along the Castilla-La Mancha windmills route. The route takes you through several towns, including Consuegra in the heart of Castilla–La Mancha, where you will find 12 of the original windmills dating back to the 16th century. Most have been restored and are open to the public. The parking area close to the last windmill offers the best views over the hill.

Campo de Criptana sets the scene for chapter eight of  Don Quixote –  “At this point, they caught sight of thirty or forty windmills which were standing on the plain…”. There is a charming restaurant with a view of the windmills where you can try local specialities like the famous Manchega cheese . 

If You Can : Visit La Mancha in October when the fields around Consuegra turn purple thanks to the dainty crocus flowers that provide the precious saffron. Consuegra’s Saffron Festival celebrates the cultivation of saffron in late October.

Tip : It is possible to make a combined Toledo and Consuegra day trip from Madrid. Or, if you have time, stay in Toledo and continue to Consuegra the next day.

How to get to Consuegra from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 2.5 hrs from Madrid or 1.5 hrs from Toledo.
• Train:  There are no train services to Consuegra. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.40 hrs from central Madrid.

Royal Palace of Aranjuez

45 minutes | 48 km | UNESCO Site, Royal Palace and Nature

Aranjuez is one of the most accessible day trips from Madrid, which you can  combine with a visit to Toledo  if you are short on time. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape, the city of Aranjuez, boasts some of the most spectacular heritage in Spain. 

The highlight of the charming city on the banks of the Tagus River is the 16th-century Royal Palace of Aranjuez and its spectacular royal gardens. The royal residence served as a country escape for kings and queens. The complex displays the wide variety of styles of the monarchs that continued the enhancement of the property over the centuries.

Some of the palace’s highlights are the Chapel Royal by Sabatini and the opulent Throne Room. Don’t miss the dazzling display of ornate Buen Retiro porcelain plaques depicting Chinese scenes in the Porcelain Room. The Chinese Room has over 200 delicate paintings on rice paper, a gift to Queen Isabella II from the Emperor of China.

The magnificently intricate Arab Cabinet was modelled on the Sala de Dos Hermanas of the Alhambra in Granada, built in the mid-1800s as a private smoking room for the consort Don Francisco de Asis. 

Initially established as a royal hunting lodge, the palace boasts over 100 acres of magnificently ornate gardens and woodlands filled with ancient trees and exotic plants tracing the Tagus. 

How to Get to Aranjuez

• Bus:  Approximately 50 minutes. Buses leave from Estación Sur de Autobuses de Madrid.
• Train:  Approximately 45 minutes. Take The regular commuter C3 train from Madrid Atocha Cercanias. It is around a 10-minute walk to the palace. 
• The Strawberry Train:  Approx 50 minutes in spring and summer only. The Strawberry Express ( Tren de la Fresa ) is a highlight. The early 20th-century steam train with wooden carriages runs from the Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on several weekends from April to October. Hostesses in period costume hand out locally grown strawberries throughout the journey. 
• Car:  Approx. Fifty minutes from central Madrid.

1 hr driving or 30 minutes train | 91 Km | UNESCO City, Roman Aquaduct, Gothic Castle and Cathedral

While Segovia lays claim to the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Spain, it is just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in Segovia. 

Dating back to the 1st century AD,  the Segovia Aquaduct  is one of Spain’s most significant and well-preserved Roman structures. All of its 167 original arches remain intact. The structure carried water from a river 17 kilometres (11 mi) away to the city’s fountains, public baths and houses until 1973. 

UNESCO gave the historic centre of Segovia World Heritage status in 1985. Visit the Royal Museum of the Mint of Segovia and the magnificent Segovia Cathedral, one of the last built in Europe in the Gothic style. 

Explore the charming tangle of medieval streets and the Jewish Quarter, which has many significant sites, including the Museo de Segovia and the Old Major Synagogue, now the Convent of the Corpus Christi Order of St. Clare, a cloistered order.

A highlight of Segovia is the 13th-century fairytale-style Alcazar. Built by Alfonso VIII on top of a rock with commanding views of the Castilian countryside, the Alcázar of Segovia is a work of Gothic elegance. Possibly Spain’s most famous castle, it is believed the Segovia Alcazar was part of the inspiration for Disney’s iconic Cinderella Castle. 

Don’t Miss : Cochinillo Asado – roast suckling pig, a traditional dish of Segovia. The meat is so tender the side of a plate is used to slice it up. 

If you have time , the elegant Palacio Real la Granja is only 10 km from Segovia in the little town of San Ildefonso in the Sierra de Guadarrama.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. Buses leave for Segovia from Moncloa Station in the north of Madrid and arrive in the historical centre in Segovia, which is very convenient.
• Train:  Approximately 30 minutes on the high-speed AVE train from Chamartin station to Guiomar Station in Segovia. The high-speed station is 6km from the historic centre. You can take the bus to the centre or a taxi from the station.   

Tour Tip for Segovia : Take a  Combined Avila and Segovia Day Trip from Madrid  with Tickets to Monuments. Visit the picturesque cities of Segovia and Avila with entry and guided tours of the most iconic monuments in these UNESCO World Heritage cities.

Ávila

1.2 hours driving. 1.5 hrs train or bus | 109 km | UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its city walls and gastronomy

The gorgeous medieval World Heritage City of Ávila is as beautiful from afar as when exploring the narrow historic streets.

Also known as the Town of Stones and Saints, Avila’s walls and turrets are some of the best-preserved walls in Spain and some of the most complete in Europe. Once a military outpost, the strategic position led to the building of the Muralla de Ávila between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Tour tip : Maximise your time with a 2 hr Ávila old town private walking tour , including entrance to the walls.

Spanning 2.5km, nine entrances and defensive gates are within the walls and more than 80 watchtowers. It is a magnificent site visible from a great distance.

Inside the walls, explore the cobbled streets to discover its many significant sites, such as the cathedral. Considered to be Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, it also was fortified and is connected to the city walls. 

A dedicated 1700-metre walkway along the top of the walls is open to the public. Take a lofty walk to enjoy magnificent views inside the walls over the cathedral and the Plaza del Mercado Grande and outside over the surrounding countryside. 

Head to Cuatro Postes Viewpoint of Avila for the best views over the walled city. Especially at sunset when the wall lights up as the sun disappears. 

Throughout the year, the city holds special events such as Medieval Days, also called “The Market of Three Cultures” (Christian, Jewish and Arabic), on the first weekend in September. There will be traditional Easter rituals and parades in March or April, and during summer, you can enjoy theatrical shows on the walls in the evenings.  

Don’t Miss : Also known for its gastronomical heritage, Ávila is famous for its meat dishes, especially T-bone steaks. Enjoy a steak with beans from El Barco de Ávila, and Patatas Revolconas made with paprika and bacon. Yemas de Santa Teresa, a small round sweet made with egg yolks, lemon and cinnamon, is also very popular. Many restaurants in town will have a set menu,  Degust Ávila  lunch, where you can sample these local specialities. 

How to get to Avila from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1.5 hrs. Buses leave for Avila from Estación Sur (also called Mendez Alvaro Station, connected by Metro line 6). It is a 15-20 minute walk to the historical centre from the bus station in Avila. 
• Train:  Approximately 1.5 hrs from Príncipe Pío Station. Avila station is very close to the city walls – approx. 15-minute walk. There is also a city bus. Make sure you buy a return ticket, especially in the peak season (best bought in advance), as they can sell out, and you may get stuck. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.2 hrs from central Madrid.

1.30 hr from Madrid or 35 minutes from Segovia | 128 Km from Madrid – 40 km from Segovia | Best preserved medieval village

Pedraza is a great side trip to Segovia if you are driving . The medieval town is only 40 km northeast of Segovia.

Declared a Monumental Complex in 1951, Pedraza is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Spain. Surrounded by pristine landscapes, Pedraza offers exquisite culinary heritage, artisan bakers and shops offering products typical of the area. Pedraza is a taste of authentic Spanish culture and history.

Visit the Pedraza Castle and Zuloaga Museum, the Imperial Eagle House and the village jail.

Pedraza also hosts many festivals and events, such as the Candle Concerts on the first and second Saturday of July. Thousands of candles illuminate the entire town of Pedraza, and concerts are held in various parts of the town.

Pedraza is home to the annual Fiestas Patronales from September 7-12, which sees bulls run through the winding streets in honour of its patron saint, the Virgen del Carrascal.

How to get to Pedraza

• Car : Car is the best way to get to Pedraza, either 1.30hr from Madrid or 35 minutes from Segovia

Alcalá de Henares

45 minutes driving or 25 minutes by train | 41 km from Madrid | UNESCO World Heritage Site | Birthplace of Cervantes

Literary lovers can indulge in the  Spanish Golden Age  in the birthplace of the famed author of Don Quixote – Miguel de Cervantes. Alcalá is where some of Spain’s most renowned artists and writers studied between the 15th and 17th centuries. 

One of the easiest day trips from Madrid by train, the World Heritage-listed university town of Alcalá de Henares can be reached in under 30 minutes from Madrid.

The Cervantes Birthplace Museum is a must-visit to see where Miguel de Cervantes was born and raised. The museum transports visitors to daily life in 16th and 17th century Alcalá. It also includes a collection of furniture, ceramics and art from the period and an important library collection, including first editions.  

The small UNESCO city surrounds the prestigious university campus – one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1486 by Cardinal Cisneros. Highlights of the University are the Mudéjar chapel and the magnificent Paraninfo auditorium, where the Spanish King and Queen award the prestigious  Miguel de Cervantes Prize. The literary prize honours the lifetime achievement of an outstanding writer in the Spanish language on the anniversary of the death of Cervantes – April 23. 

It is also at the University of Alcalá where Christopher Columbus first met King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel to discuss his plans for his voyage of discovery.

Worthwhile events throughout the year include the  Classical Theatre Festival  in summer, the  Mercado Cervantino  in early autumn when the streets are full of markets and activities in 17th-century style and the famous  Christmas lights in December .

Don’t Miss : Alcalá is famous for its generous and delicious tapas, served in most bars when you order a drink. Try the artisanal sweets and pastries made in the city’s convents – Convento de San Diego is a favourite for candied almonds. 

Tour Recommendations

• Half Day Alcalá de Henares & Cervantes Museum Day Trip from Madrid – 5 hours. Includes transport, guides and tickets.
• Private Walking Tour of the Historic Alcalá de Henares – 1.5 hrs

How to get to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 45 minutes. From Avenida de América station in Madrid, the 223, 227 and 229 bus routes and the N202 (night bus) all go to Alcalá.
• Train:  Approximately 25 minutes on Madrid’s Cercanias train lines. 
• Car:  Approx. 45 minutes from central Madrid.

2.20 hrs driving or 1.40 hrs by high-speed train | 214 km from Madrid | Vibrant UNESCO city | Historic University 

The city of two cathedrals, Salamanca is considered one of the most beautiful world heritage cities in Spain. 

While a very historic city, the university, the oldest in the Hispanic world and one of the oldest in continuous operation, continues to give Salamanca youthful energy. The city is a treasure trove of historical buildings and fascinating finds. 

Stop for coffee or an afternoon drink at the beautiful Plaza Mayor and enjoy the endless parade of people, perhaps from the hundred-year-old Café Novelty. You may even be treated to a show in the magnificent plaza in the evening, especially in the summer. 

Explore the intriguing features of the city’s most famous historical buildings, such as Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells). The building is adorned with thousands of shells placed there as a token of the marriage between two noble families. Legend says there is treasure beneath one of the shells. 

At the two cathedrals of Salamanca, you will find people searching for other curious icons. In the Cathedral door, you can see carved figures of an astronaut, a monkey eating ice cream and a stork. At the university, for centuries, a secret frog carved in the gothic facade is believed to determine the success of a student’s studies based on whether you can find it. 

If You Have Time : If you can manage a night in Salamanca (which we wholly recommend), it is breathtaking at night, and there is no shortage of nightlife and great places to eat. 

Head to Calle Van Dyck in the north of the city for a good selection of bars and cheap and cheerful tapas places. The street will be very lively from around 9 pm.

Don’t Miss : Hornazo. A typical pie of Salamanca and Avila that is easily eaten by hand – Pastry filled with pork loin, spicy chorizo, and hard-boiled eggs.

• Tour of Avila & Salamanca from Madrid – 11 hrs. Tour both cities with transportation, guides and entry to Salamanca Cathedral.
• Monuments and Landmarks Guided Walking Tour – 2-2.5 hrs
• Salamanca Like a Local. Customized Private Tour – starting at 2 hrs

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 3 hrs. Avanza and Alsa both operate bus services between Madrid and Salamanca. 
• Train:  Approximately 1.40 hrs. There are numerous daily services, with the fastest AVE train being 1.40 hr. Some services will be 2.20 hrs. 
• Car:  Approx. 2.20 hrs from central Madrid.

1.50 hours driving or less than an hour by fast train | 170 km | UNESCO Medieval city with fascinating houses 

One of Spain’s best-kept secrets, visitors, often bypass Cuenca in favour of Toledo or Segovia. The UNESCO-listed city is worth at least a day trip from Madrid. 

Less than two hours from Madrid, in the mountains of east-central Spain in the Castile-La Mancha region, the town’s highlight is the attention-grabbing hanging houses of Cuenca “ Casas Colgadas .” Perched on a limestone spur, they cling precariously to the cliff’s edge, appearing to hover over the Huécar gorge. 

Explore the steep cobbled streets of the World Heritage walled town to discover medieval castle ruins, Plaza Mayor, the Mangana Tower, the secret underground tunnels of Alfonso VIII and the Cuenca Cathedral.

There are museums to discover Cuenca’s past and culture, such as the Semana Santa Museum. But there is also a very modern side to the historic town – restaurants, hotels and landmark buildings creatively restored to reveal strikingly modern interiors, such as the Spanish Museum of Abstract Arts, housed in one of the iconic hanging houses, and the Castilla-La Mancha Science Museum.

Another important landmark and the best viewing point for the Hanging Houses is the San Paolo Bridge. The original stone bridge over the Huécar River dates back to the 16th century, connecting the town with the San Pablo convent. The original stone bridge collapsed but was rebuilt in 1902 in iron and wood. The 40-meter-high bridge may not be for those with a fear of heights, but it does offer the best photo opportunities of the unique historic town. 

Must Try : Hit up the local Castilian-style restaurants to try  Morteruelo , a paté style dish originating from Cuenca,  Ajoarriero  a cod and potato dish usually served as a starter, and the local liqueur  resolí , traditionally served with  alajú,  a typical cake from Cuenca of spices, nuts and honey wedged between two wafers. 

• Day Trip to Cuenca and The Enchanted City from Madrid – 11 hrs Cuenca and the Enchanted City including Devil’s Window. Includes guide, transport and tickets to the Enchanted City.
• Cuenca Medieval Old Town Guided Tour – 2 Hrs

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 2 hrs from Madrid  Estación Sur de Autobuses . The bus station in Cuenca is close to the historic centre. 
• Train:  Some high-speed train services take less than an hour between Atocha Station in Madrid and Cuenca. Cuenca’s high-speed railway station is the “Fernando Zobel”, about 6 kilometres from the city centre, which is connected by bus and taxi. The Cuenca rail station, closer to town, is serviced by regional trains. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.50 hrs from central Madrid.

Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains

50 minutes driving or 2+hrs by train | 70 km | National Park, historic towns and Ski Resort

Less than an hour’s drive north of Madrid is the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range in the eastern part of the Sistema Central that separates the autonomous regions of Madrid and Castilla León.

It is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid for the diversity of experiences, whether you enjoy hiking, nature, sports or exploring historic towns. 

The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park covers 33,960 hectares reaching altitudes of 2,428 metres at its highest point, the  Peak of Peñalara .

The national park offers visitors a magnificent diversity of terrains to explore, including vast pine forests, smaller Pyrenean oak forests, mountain grasslands, snow-covered landscapes, rocky areas, and seasonal streams, waterfalls and natural swimming areas. 

Skiing in Sierra de Guadarrama

There are two ski resorts in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range – Valdesquí  and  Puerto de Nevacerrada . 

Valdesquí, near the town of Rascafría, has 22 km of marked pistes, making it one of the most significant ski areas of the Sistema Central chain.

The Puerto de Navacerrada is the closest ski resort to Madrid, with 10 km of protected pistes set among picturesque pine forests. It is divided into intermediate/advanced in the upper area and intermediate/beginners’ pistes in the lower.

• Day Trip to Guadarrama National Park from Madrid – 10 hrs. Includes transport, guide and walking tour inside Guadarrama National Park.
• Horse Riding in Sierra del Guadarrama National Park from Madrid – 2.5 hrs. Transportation, guide and all equipment.

How to get to Sierra de Guadarrama from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1.50 hrs from Madrid Moncloa, finishing at Ctra. M601 – Club Alpino Espanol.
• Train:  Approximately 1.40 – 2 hrs. Take the train from the Atocha station in Madrid to Cercedilla on line C88. Then take another train to the Puerto de Navacerrada ski station. 
• Car:  Approx. 50 minutes from central Madrid.

Madrid’s Wine Country

The region of Madrid has some of the most celebrated wineries in the world. An incredible winemaking history in the Madrid wine country dates back over a century. The area is particularly famous for its Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes.

East of Madrid, you will find Arganda , the largest subregion with more than 50% of Madrid’s vineyards and 60 % of its total production. In the southwest, Navalcarnero produces 15% of its wine. In the west of Madrid, you can experience the highest-altitude vineyards of San Martin .

There are plenty of opportunities for wine-tasting tours, many incorporating visits to some of the biggest attractions close to Madrid.

• Madrid Region 3 Winery Guided Tour and Tastings – 6 Hours
• Ribera del Duero Tour of 3 Different Wineries – 11 hours
• Toledo Tour with Wine Tasting and 7 Monuments – 9 hours
• Small Group Countryside Wineries Guided Tour and Tasting – 6 hours

Other Day Trips from Madrid

There is so much to do in Valencia , I believe you should spend at least a few days. However, making a day trip to Valencia from Madrid is possible. Valencia is 3 hr 50 min (359.8 km) by car. However, the high-speed train service can take as little as 1.40 hr, which makes a day trip to Valencia, the birthplace of paella, very achievable.

Tour Recommendation : 4-Day Valencia and Barcelona tour from Madrid . If you want to visit all of Spain’s big cities and see all the highlights (returning with a stop in Zaragoza), take an all-inclusive four-day tour from Madrid with accommodation, daily breakfasts, comfortable transportation, and high-speed AVE tickets between cities. See here for full tour details .

Again, Barcelona is a trip in its own right. However, a day trip to Barcelona is achievable on the AVE high-speed train. The fastest train service is around 2.30 hrs. Perhaps at least a night is recommended.

Córdoba

Córdoba is a city in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia, home to the largest old town in Spain and the only city in the world to have four Unesco-protected sites. The city is known for its beautiful 8th-century Mezquita (Mosque turned cathedral), the charming Alcázar, ruins of Arab baths, and a gorgeous tangle of streets in the old Judería (Jewish Quarter). 

One of the most popular day trips from Seville , it is possible to make a day trip to Córdoba from Madrid on the high-speed train. Some train services are as little as 1.45hr.

Much like Barcelona, there is so much to do in Seville , a day trip would not do it justice. However, if you only had a day, the fastest high-speed train between Madrid and Seville is around 2.30 hrs making a day trip from Madrid to Seville possible.

15 Unforgettable Day Trips From Madrid And How To Make Them Happen

• April 12, 2024

Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, isn’t just a hub for art, cuisine, and lively nightlife; it’s also the perfect starting point for adventurers exploring the country’s diverse offerings. From the historic walls of Toledo or Segovia Aqueduct to the royal palaces of Aranjuez and El Escorial, beyond Madrid’s bustling Gran Vía, a world of historic towns, lush vineyards, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.

As a Madrid resident myself, I have spent a lot of time exploring the fringes of the city and the nearby neighbours, and as much as I love the city, there are so many things to do outside Madrid; it is fun to explore. So I thought I would share my insights and put together some of my top recommendations for the best day trips from Madrid.

This list is a mixture of cities near Madrid that you can easily reach by public transport as well as things to do in surrounding towns and villages that you may need to hire a car for . For each recommendation, I have also included information about how to get there. 

Finally, Spain loves food and everywhere you go is fiercely proud of their local fare, so you can rest assured I have included mentions of local cuisine or specific dishes that you should explore on your day trips. So, now I have whetted your appetite, let’s get going.

This is one of the most popular cities close to Madrid and definitely one of my favourite Madrid day trips. It is the one I recommend all of my friends take when they visit me, so I’ve become a pretty good tour guide for the city after my multiple visits to Segovia. 

The city is home to one of the finest surviving Roman Aqueducts in the world (allegedly built by the Devil!), as well as an impenetrable castle that may have inspired Disney and a stunning cathedral. 

What I love about the city is it is super easy to get to by train and just the perfect size for a day trip. You can easily explore the key sites and return to Madrid for dinner.

I highly recommend checking out my post specifically about a day trip to Segovia from Madrid. In it, I spill all the details about how to get there, my recommended itinerary, and more about what you can expect to see. Hopefully, you’ll understand why I always recommend it as my best day trip from Madrid.

Top things to see in Segovia

• The Segovia Aqueduct – dates back to 50AD and is rumoured to have been built by the Devil after a local youngling tricked him.
• Alcázar of Segovia – one of the few castles in Spain that has never been taken by force. Also allegedly one of the major inspirations for Walt Disney’s castle.
• Segovia Cathedral – a gigantic Gothic-style masterpiece known as the “Lady of Cathedrals” for its architectural beauty and significance in the region’s religious history. Don’t miss the wonderful views from the bell tower.
• Jewish Quarter – discover the city’s multicultural past and its significance to the cultural fabric.

What to eat

• Cochinillo Asado – a local traditional roasted pig fed on a special diet and cooked in a special oven.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid

The easiest way is by high-speed train from Madrid Chamartin station. The Segovia train station is a bit outside of the city itself, so when you arrive you will require a quick bus or taxi ride to get into the centre. The train takes around 30 mins from Madrid to Segovia.

There is a bus option, but it takes a bit longer, or you can hire a car and drive yourself which will take around an hour and a half. You can read more advice about getting to Segovia from Madrid here .

Another really popular day trip from Madrid is to Toledo, the old capital of Spain and a Toledo’s Historic City Centre is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. It is around one hour by car from Madrid or just 30 minutes by Renfe AVE high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station.

Just bear in mind, if you are taking the train, Toledo Railway station is at the bottom of a hill and the city at the top. There are buses or you can take a taxi to the top and still back. The taxi costs around 6 euros.

The city was once the capital of Spain and is also known as “The City of Three Cultures”, a nod to being one of the few places that the Jewish, Muslim and Christian cultures co-existed in relative peace.

One thing that you will certainly notice on a Toledo day trip are the many shops that sell awesome swords. This is due to the city’s historical metalworking industry. The manufacture of swords in the city goes back to Roman times, but it was under Moorish rule and the reconquest years, 15th to 17th centuries, that the city’s sword-makers were widely recognised as the most talented around and Toledo swords came to be regarded as the best in Europe.

If you are looking for the perfect Toledo souvenirs then a sword would be the right choice. Of course, you may want to check your airline baggage rules before buying that 15th-century replica broadsword that would have had William Wallace running in fear!

Top things to see and do in Toledo

• Toledo Cathedral (Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo) – A gothic masterpiece dating to the 13th century.
• El Greco Museum – one of Spain’s most iconic artists. The museum is a recreation of the artists home.
• The Alcázar of Toledo – An imposing castle and key historical fortress on the cities highest point. Visit for panoramic views and home to an military Museum.
• Puente de San Martin – a picturesque medieval bridge across the River Tagus.
• Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca : Emblematic of Toledo’s rich religious history, showcasing the coexistence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures.
• Marzipan – A local speciality. The Toledano are experts at crafting swords and stunning marzipan desserts. You’ll find it in bakeries throughout the city.
• Carcamusas : A traditional Toledo dish made with pork, peas, and tomato sauce, offering a taste of local cuisine.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

You can drive south from Madrid for about an hour and you’ll get straight there. It’s a simple motorway so little chance of getting lost, although the road does get pretty busy at rush hour. The Madrid to Toledo train runs on average 8 times a day, leaving approximately every two and a half hours, between 6:50 am and 9:50 pm from Madrid’s Atocha station. Depending on which train you take, the travel time is between 33 – 60 minutes. 

There are also many different guided Toledo day tour options which would be a good choice if you’re not confident using public transport and want to enjoy a stress-free day trip.

Sat high atop a spur between the Júcar and Huécar rivers, another one of my favourite Madrid side trips is a day in Cuenca, Castilla La Mancha.

The most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas – the Hanging Houses. Dating back to the 15th Century, the houses were built into the cliff overlooking the steep ravine. The wooden balconies are synonymous with the city and certainly not a place for anyone with a fear of heights.

If you visit Cuenca, I would recommend starting in the castle area and working your way through the steep cobbled streets down into the main town. From here you can head to the hanging houses, cross the river over the spine chilling St Paul Bridge and work your way down to the lower part of the city.

If you are visiting with kids, I would certainly recommend allowing some time to visit the Paleontological Museum of Cuenca. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the centre or a quick taxi ride, but you’ll find a nice museum with many dinosaurs to entertain the little ones. My kids loved it up until the point they got pounced on by a man in an animatronic raptor suit; suddenly, they weren’t so brave!

The views back to the city are also pretty spectacular.

Top things to see in Cuenca

• Hanging Houses of Cuenca (Casas Colgadas) – the most iconic sight in Cuenca, these houses appear to cling perilously to the cliff edges. They are a must-see and highly photogenic.
• Cuenca Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María y San Julián) – Located in the main square surrounded by colourful houses. One of the oldest examples of Gothic architecture in Spain, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history and impressive art collection.
• Saint Paul Bridge (Puente de San Pablo) – A stunning walking bridge offering the best views of the Hanging Houses and the Huécar gorge. It’s a favourite spot for photographers, and sightseers. You may be OK, but the gaps in the floor, the slight swinging and the height certainly made me feel very uneasy!
• The Castle – not much of a castle left, but wonderful views and lots of restaurants.
• Paleontological Museum of Cuenca – Great for kids and wonderful views back to Cuenca

If you can stay for longer, you may also enjoy the stunning Serrania de Cuenca National Park

• Pisto Manchego – a delicious local dish made from vegetables (similar to ratatouille) served with a fried egg on top. I’m sorry to say though, wherever you eat it, it won’t be as good as my mother-in-law’s.
• Alajú – A traditional sweet from Cuenca made with almonds, honey, breadcrumbs, and various spices, wrapped in a thin wafer.

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid

As with most of these day trips from Madrid, the most sensible option would be the Renfe AVE train from Madrid-Atocha Train Station. It takes just an hour (give or take a few minutes depending on the train you choose) for the high-speed train from Madrid to Cuenca to complete the journey.

Compare that to the standard train, which takes about 3 and a half hours, or driving, which is about 2 and a half hours. The fast train is by far the best option for a day trip to Cuenca.

Just bear in mind, as with most of the high-speed train stations, Cuenca Fernando Zóbel Train Station is located a fair way outside the city and will require a taxi ride that takes around 10 – 15 mins and costs in the region of €12.

4. Madrid Wine Tour

While regions such as Rioja and Ribera Del Duero dominate Spanish wine fame, Madrid actually has its very own Denominación de Origen—Vinos De Madrid DO. This official designation covers several wine-producing zones in the Madrid region: San Martin and Navalcarnero to the Southeast and Arganda, the largest, to the southwest. The great thing is that all of them are accessible via public transport.

Yes, you read that right, no need to drive so you can sample as much as you’d like (although driving is a bit easier)

However, my best recommendation when visiting vineyards while tight on time is enjoying one of the day tours from Madrid and let someone else do the thinking.

If you did want to plan your own itinerary, I’d recommend reading this post that I have written for the Winerist website . It has all the details you need to know about reaching Madrid’s vineyards via public transport.

A few vineyards to look out for include Bodega del Real Cortijo in Aranjuez, Bodega Del Nero in Chinchon and Bodega Licina Wines in Morata de Tajuña.

The wine varieties of Garnacha, Tempranillo, and Albillo, are prominent in the region.

Also, be sure to check out my tips on flying with wine , as you’ll be wanting to take some back home with you!

Top things to see in the Madrid vineyards

Don’t . . . drink the wine

How to get to the Madrid vineyards

In the post linked above, you can see the public transport links to reach the vineyards, they involve either a train or the bus. However, a tour would be my recommended option, or if you have a partner who is willing to drive, this is by far the easiest way. I would recommend Arganda as the place to plan most of your visits, however, San Martin does have a lovely reservoir and “ beach ” you can visit as part of the day trip.

5. The Madrid Mountains

Just about an hour out of Madrid, you will find the Sierra de Guadarrama, Sierra del Norte and the Sierra de Gredos mountain ranges. I’ll be honest, they are no Alps, but they do offer a wonderful respite from the hectic pace of city life and in fact, many Madrileños own second homes in the area.

During the summer, the Madrid Mountains offer some excellent hiking, cycling and bird watching opportunities and in a good Winter, there are even some pretty decent ski ports for a few winter sports. It is possible to reach some of the areas by train, but if you really want to see the best spots, you either have to do it by car and drive yourself or take a tour .

Aside from hiking, there are some fantastic little villages to be explored. Puebla de la Sierra is a nice little village with a very good restaurant and easy hiking routes. But my favourite I have discovered (so far) is Patones de Arriba.

I have been there a few times now and it is such a picturesque little village. Sitting high up in the mountains, you are not allowed to drive into it, so you have to park your car and walk. It is possible to drive close, but most people leave their car at the bottom in the more modern village of Patones and hike up.

If you do drive to Patones de Arriba, be sure to leave time to go a little further up the road and check out El Atazar so you get some awesome views over the Atazar Reservoir (Madrid’s largest reservoir) and drive across the dam.

Top places to see in the Madrid Mountains

• Parador de Gredos – Historic hotel from where numerous hiking trails start.
• Buitrago del Lozoya – Notable for its well-preserved medieval walls and Mudejar-style castle.
• Patones de Arriba – my favourite village I have found so far. It takes a bit of effort to get there, but well worth it.
• Puebla de la Sierra – Another cute little village with a great restaurant in the main square
• Rascafria – Close to a reservoir, Rascafria is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools.

Anything in Rey de Patones – an amazing restaurant, but be sure to check your bank balance first!

How to get to there

Hiring a car is really the best option for this day trip.

6. Salamanca

Believe it or not, the famous university city of Salamanca is just a little over two hours away and is certainly possible to visit on a one-day trip from Madrid.

I’m lucky to have visited the city numerous times as my wife’s family have a place in the Sierra de Francia mountains , one of my favourite places in Spain. But this is not about that; this is about Salamanca.

The biggest thing in the city is the university, it was the first one in Spain and is widely recognised as one of the best in the world with students from around the globe. As you would expect, this gives the city a rather sophisticated feel of one steeped in academic history.

Two places in Salamanca stand out to me. First, the Plaza Mayor. Alongside Madrid, it is one of my favourite plaza mayors in Spain. Decadent facades are on all four sides, and there is a great little microbrewery to grab a drink, sit, and enjoy some people-watching. You’ll also find the Visitor Information Centre here.

My other highlight is crossing the pedestrianised Roman Bridge. When you reach the far side there are wonderful views back to the city and you can even find a little stony beach on the shore of the river to relax by.

Top things to do in Salamanca

• University of Salamanca – One of the oldest universities in the world, offering rich architectural and academic heritage.
• Plaza Mayor – Salamanca’s main square and a fine example of Baroque architecture, often bustling with cafes and tourist activities.
• Casa de las Conchas – A historical building known for its shell-covered façade and its mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements.
• Cathedral of Salamanca – Include both the Old and New Cathedrals, notable for their distinct architectural styles and historical importance. Make sure you hunt for the spaceman on the Cathedral door! Really!
• Convento de San Esteban – A stunning convent known for its ornate plateresque facade and its historical significance in the religious and political history of Spain.
• T he Roman bridge – Cross the River Tormes for lovely views of the city.
• Hornazo – A local speciality which is an oven-baked meat pie, but a bit more like bread than pastry, usually stuffed with pork loin, spicy chorizo, and hard-boiled eggs.

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid

The only real way to enjoy a day trip from Madrid to Salamanca is by driving yourself, it takes about two hours to drive to the city. It is possible to get the train, however, the first high speed departure from Madrid leaves just after 10 am and you don’t arrive in Salamanca until nearly 12 pm. You have to get the train back around 6pm so that only leaves you 6 hours to enjoy the city, which is enough if you are ninja fast, but not to see it all. 

It would be a good option if you want an overnight visit. There are regular buses from Madrid to Salamanca, operated by Avanzabus. They leave from the Madrid Sur bus station but take a little over 3 hours to arrive in Salamanca.

I know what you’re thinking, Seville? Really? A day trip? Well, stick with me here as with the AVE High-Speed Train, it is totally possible to take day trips from Madrid to Seville, in fact, I have a whole post about it complete with a Seville in a day itinerary . But is it worth it? Of course. I fell in love with the city on my visit. 

Seville is the capital of the Andalusia region of Spain. Famous for Flamenco and the traditional Spanish pastime of bullfighting. Now, personally, I hate the “sport” of killing a bull and I don’t feel it has a place in the modern world, but there is quite a history and prestige to it and, it is said that as a Matador if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.

Further back there is a massive Moorish influence on the city, which most represented the Alcazar of Seville , an amazing palace to visit and even a filming site for the Game of Thrones.

Seville is also home to the world’s largest cathedral the the tomb of Christopher Columbus, a tower of gold, delicious tapas and weird architecture in the shape of mushrooms.

However, as amazing as it is, a day trip to Seville from Madrid is not cheap, but it is definitely worth it.

Top things to see in Seville

• A flamenco show in Triana- after all, this district in Seville is the birthplace of this emotional dance.
• The Alcázar of Seville – A must-see UNESCO World Heritage site. Just dripping in decadence and you’ll never want to leave the garden.
• The Cathedral and Bell Tower – the largest cathedral in the world and a bell tower you can climb, what’s not to love?
• The streets of the old Jewish Quarter – Great food & great stories, you can really get into the history of Seville in this area.
• Plaza de España – It’s famous for its semi-circular brick building, ornamental bridges, and beautiful ceramic tiles located in María Luisa Park. Also, a filming spot for the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
• Metropol Parasol – Known locally as Las Setas, this is a modern architectural wonder. The large wooden structure fills a plaza and you can get on top of it for some fantastic views.
• Secreto Iberico – a cut of pork that just melts in your mouth
• Gazpacho or Salmorejo – tomato-based Andalusian soups served chilled

How to get to Seville from Madrid

If you want to take a day trip to Seville, the high-speed train is your only real option as it is a long drive. It takes a little under 3 hours each way, but with regular departures throughout the day from Madrid’s Atocha Station, there is plenty of time to see the city highlights and be back in Madrid by bedtime.

The tickets cost in the region of €100 each way, but If you can book tickets early , there is a good chance you can save up to 25%. It does seem like a lot, but it is certainly a city worth visiting to really enjoy some of the southern Spanish cultures. 

An incredibly popular day trip from Madrid is Avila . Tours will often combine it with a visit to Segovia . If you are looking to get the most out of your time in Spain, that could be a really good option.

As you approach Avila from the outside, it looks spectacular, is it a walled city with some of the most eye-catching fortifications you will see thanks to years of restoration work. It really is postcard perfect.

However, on my visit to Avila, once I had breached the city walls, I found it a little underwhelming. As with most Spanish cities, there are plenty of churches to visit, and the main cathedral is pretty spectacular. The walk around the top of the walls was a really nice experience, but other than that, I didn’t find a whole lot more that really stands out about the city.

While Avila is a nice side trip from Madrid, if you allow a full day here, you may find yourself getting a little bored by the end, but it is certainly worth visiting. It is a nice stop on the way to Salamanca, or as mentioned previously, part of a multi-stop organised tour.

Top things to see do in Avila

• The Walls of Ávila – The city walls are among the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage site . They can be enjoyed from a distance or also walking along the top.
• The tourist train – a nice little tour which is a great way to get a concise history of Avila and see the main sites. It will also take you to a viewpoint out side of the city to get nice photos of the walls.
• Ávila Cathedral (The Cathedral of the Saviour) – Integrated into the city’s defense system, this cathedral is one of the first Gothic cathedrals in Spain and offers architectural and spiritual insights.
• Amarguillos – traditional almond flavoured pastries
• Yemas de Santa Teresa – a sweet made from egg yolks

How to get to Avila from Madrid

The best way to see Avila is either by organised tour or driving yourself. This gives you the most flexibility to see as much as possible in a day. It is a simple drive, motorways all the way (with a toll), but leaving Madrid can get busy at peak times.

There are nearly 20 trains a day that go between Madrid and Avila, but they are not high-speed trains so take around 1 hour and 45 minutes. I would not recommend this as an option.

9. Zaragoza

I visited Zaragoza recently, and although I must admit I cheated, it was an overnight trip, not a day trip; however, the fact that it is a very pretty city and on the high-speed train line certainly makes it worth considering. 

In fact, it is the only stop between Madrid and Barcelona , so if you are travelling between the two cities, I would highly recommend breaking your ride up a bit and spending a few hours exploring Zaragoza.

The city’s heart lies in the Plaza Nuestra Señora del Pilar. It is a huge square where you will find the gorgeous Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, that faces onto the River Ebro, La SEO Cathedral and the entrance to the historic Roman parts of the city.

However, my highlight is a network of alleyways called El Tubo. It is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas. We eat some mushroom burgers, croquettes, migas and much more, if you love your food and drink, you will not want to leave.

If you would like to read a more in-depth guide, check out my what to see in Zaragoza post to be fully inspired.

Top things to see in Zaragoza

• La SEO Cathedral – an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years.
• Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar – Simply stunning from the outside and home to a dome that was painted by Goya and a tower you can get to the top of for wonderful views. 
• Aljafería Palace – an old Moorish palace and a stunning example of Islamic architecture in Northern Spain with some lovely courtyards.
• Cross Stone Bridge – cross the old river bridge and look back across the Ebro for great views of the Basilica.
• Everything . . . in El Tubo

Once again we’re back on the AVE High-Speed Train. Zaragoza is on the high-speed train route between Madrid and Barcelona meaning there are loads of departures from Atocha station throughout the day. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to Zaragoza-Delicias station. As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona.

10. Aranjuez

The small town of Aranjuez is a nice escape from the city of Madrid. It is only 45 minutes by car or a little under an hour by Renfe Cercanías (Commuter Train). However, most visitors to the city take what is known as the Strawberry Train.

The area of Aranjuez was a traditional strawberry producing powerhouse, and the Strawberry Train tries to take you back to this era. You get on the train at the old railway station which is now the Madrid Train Museum and an old school (read: uncomfortable) train carriage will take you to the town.

The train guards dress up in traditional clothing and on your return to the city you get given a serving of strawberries.

The biggest draw in the town is the huge royal palace and expansive gardens. Aranjuez has been one of the Royal Estates of the Crown of Spain since 1560 and for nearly 200 years, until 1752, only the royalty and nobility were allowed to live in the town.

In fact, the Aranjuez Cultural Landscape is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This cultural landscape includes the palace and surrounding gardens, reflecting the concept of an ideal city that influenced landscape design in the Americas.

Top things to see in Aranjuez

• Royal Palace of Aranjuez – A beautiful palace that is a key attraction, famous for its blend of architectural styles and its historical significance as a former residence of the Spanish royal family.
• Prince’s Garden (Jardín del Príncipe) – Famous for its wide variety of flora, historical buildings, and the peaceful Falúas Museum (Museo de las Falúas Reales), which houses historic royal pleasure boats.
• Plaza de Toros – one of the oldest in Spain.
• Fresas de Aranjuez (Strawberries of Aranjuez of course) – as mentioned, Aranjuez is famous for its strawberries. When visiting, you must sample these locally grown fruits.
• Menestra de Verduras – A vegetable stew and a typical dish in Aranjuez, reflecting the agricultural richness of the region.

How to get to Aranjuez from Madrid

If you choose not to take the strawberry train, The C3 Renfe Cercanías line directly connects Madrid’s Atocha Station with Aranjuez. Regular bus services also link Madrid to Aranjuez from the Méndez Álvaro bus terminal (Estacion Sur).

Alternativly, if you want to kick it easy, other organised tours will take you to the town or you can also drive yourself. It will take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid.

11. Ribera del Duero

I’m back with another wine region. While outside of Spain, there is no doubt Rioja is considered the best wine from the country, however, those in the know also talk about this smaller wine region named Ribera del Duero. It is home to some of Spain’s top winemakers and, unlike Rioja, is within reach of a day trip from Madrid.

The Ribera del Duero wine route runs along the Duero river, the same one that flows all the way through Portugal and is famous for Port wine. But this is nearer the beginning of the river’s life. It covers a length of over 70 miles through Castile-León.

There are many underground wine cellars to discover in the region, a wonderful mix of famous producers and small family affairs.

Top things to see in Ribera del Duero

• Vineyards – lots of them. Bodegas Protos is my personal favourite.
• Aranda de Duero – a nice little town in the area.
• Grapes . . . in their liquified state

How to get to Ribera del Duero from Madrid

If you are visiting wine regions, I would always recommend taking a tour as you can then relax and enjoy without worrying about drink-drive limits. 

If you would rather take public transport, you can get buses to various towns in the region from Valladolid which is reachable from Madrid by train or intercity bus.

12. Chinchón

Probably the least famous town on this list, Chinchón is home to one of Spain’s prettiest Plaza Mayors. 

The Medieval plaza is surrounded by old buildings with iconic wooden balconies, it is like a little time trap as you step into the past. 

The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción sits atop a hill, overlooking the town and is home to a piece of early work by Goya, one of Spain’s most famous artists.

One other thing to bear in mind, if you are travelling with teenagers, Chinchón is really close to the Warner Brothers Theme Park. If Theme Parks are not your thing, just drop your kids there for the day while you explore the town.

Top things to see in Chinchon

• Chinchón Castle – Also known as Castillo de los Condes, although mostly in ruins, it still offers a glimpse into Spain’s feudal past and is a point of interest for visitors.
• Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción – A lovely church that houses “The Assumption of the Virgin”, a painting by Goya, making it an important cultural and historical site.
• The Clock Tower – Standing as a solitary remnant of a destroyed church, it is an iconic symbol of the town.
• Garlic Soup – The town loves its garlic, they even have a festival in honour of the delicious little edible bulb every October.
• Drink Anisette – Chinchón’s famous anise liqueur. Adding on a visit to a local distillery can be a fascinating experience.

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid

The best way is driving. If you have a car it is about 45 minutes to drive to Chinchón from Madrid.

13. El Escorial & The Valley of the Fallen

El Escorial is a town just to the north of Madrid that most people visit to see the imposing Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial , and the nearby Valley of the Fallen, a Catholic basilica and controversial civil war memorial.

The Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial can get confusing as it is also known as the Monasterio del Escorial, is a large palace that dates back to the 16th century. 

Visitors can spend hours exploring the hallways and gardens, but my stand out memory was the catacombs. There are many tombs of famous royals from throughout history, but none quite as spectacular as the Panteón Real de El Escorial, a small room down a long flight of stairs that only the top of the royal hierarchy can be laid to rest.

The room glows in red and gold with a magnificent chandelier hanging high above your head. The coffins are vertically lined up the walls with the names of the ex-monarchs. I would love to show you, but it is not allowed to take photos.

About 20-minutes up the road from El Escorial is The Valle de Los Caídos, which translates to The Valley of the Fallen. A huge cross in the mountains marks the site of this basilica that was built during the Franco regime. 

Franco claimed that the monument was meant to be a “national act of atonement” and reconciliation with fighters from both sides of the war buried there, although much of it was built through the forced labour of political prisoners.

But, as it was also the burial site of Franco himself, it became a shrine for the far-right and detested by many Spaniards.

However, that was up until October 2019, when Franco’s body was exhumed and relocated to the understated (by Spanish standards) El Pardo-Mingorrubio cemetery.

While moving the body proved to be a controversial move that divided opinions across the country, the aim of the government is to see The Valle de Los Caídos move away from a site where Spain’s far-right pay homage to the dictator and become “a place of commemoration, remembrance and homage to the victims of the war”.

No matter what your political persuasion, there is no doubt the monument is an impressive maker to the bloody past of a dark time in Spain’s history.

Top things to see in El Escorial

• Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial – It’s not only a royal palace but also a monastery, a school, and a historical burial place for the kings of Spain.
• The Cross – a towering 150-meter (500 ft) cross which is one of the largest in the world and visible from miles away.
• The Basilica and Abbey at The Valley – an underground basilica carved into the rock with a Benedictine abbey adjacent to the complex.
• Suckling pig roasted in a traditional wood oven

How to get to El Escorial from Madrid

El Escorial is about 50km by car from Madrid and will take a little over an hour to get to. It is also easily reachable by public transport. Trains to El Escorial leave from Atocha or Chamartín station. They are the municipal Cercanías Renfe lines which mean there are a lot of stops, but they are also cheap. Take line C-8 or C-3 which depart every hour and the journey lasts approximately one hour. 

Once you arrive at the El Escorial train station, it is about a 15 – 20-minute walk uphill to get to Monastery of El Escorial. However, there are also plenty of tuk-tuk drivers who offer tours of the town and trips up to some wonderful viewpoints.

If you wish to tie in a visit to The Valley of the Fallen, you can either take a taxi from El Escorial or a tour. You can also organise private tours that will take you to both sites with pick up and drop off. As always, this will be a bit more expensive but that’s the price for a stress-free trip.

14. Alcalá de Henares

Alcala de Henares is a town that is one of the more popular side trips from Madrid as it can easily be visited using Madrid’s Cercanías rail system. It is a university town that is most famous for being the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Spain’s most famous literary work, Don Quixote.

As you’d expect, the town is home to the Cervantes Birthplace Museum where you can learn about the life and inspiration of the “Spanish Shakespeare”. The town also has some wonderful large squares and impressive Mudejar architecture.

Top things to see in Alcala de Henares

• Cervantes Birthplace Museum
• Plaza de Cervantes
• Laredo palace
• Torre De Santa Maria
• Regional Archaeological Museum of Madrid
• Rosquillas de Alcalá – traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze

How to get to Alcala de Henares from Madrid

It takes a little over 35 minutes to drive from Madrid to Alcala, but there is also a local train on Madrid’s public transport system that will take you there. The C-2 Cercanías line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares. It takes about 45 minutes and trains leave every half hour or so. Alcala de Henares is in zone B-3 which means a return ticket can be bought for less than €5.

If you want to just relax and enjoy the day, then tours with pick up and drop off are available and offer good value.

15. Monasterio de Piedra

The Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park is a large park and monastery a little over 2 hours outside of Madrid.

Years of erosion by the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular waterfalls that visitors can visit and wander around. The route even takes you behind one of the largest in the park. 

The site has also been carefully landscaped over many years by the monks that live in the monastery on site. The result is a wonderful harmony of natural falls and crafted waterways to impress the many visitors.

As well as the park you can visit the monastery itself and a small wine and chocolate museum with winemaking exhibits and information about the relationship between monks and winemaking as a commercial business to fund their way of life.

Top things to see in Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park

• Waterfalls & Lakes
• Trucha a la Piedra – trout cooked in the style of Piedra
• Chocolate – lots of it obviously

How to get to Monasterio de Piedra from Madrid

The best way is by far to drive yourself, but there are bus and train options. I have broken it all down in my other post specific to a day trip to Monasterio de Piedra . If you would like an in-depth look about how to get there, you can find it near the top of the post as well as some more tips about what to expect from the park.

Final thoughts on the best day trips from Madrid

While I do love living in the city of Madrid, one of my favourite things to do is leave it behind for a day and explore further afield. 

In this post, I haven’t even mentioned some of the micro trips and things to do in surrounding towns in Madrid. You can visit sites such as the unique cathedral in Mejorada Del Campo or eat olives in Campo Real.

Whether you are in Madrid for a week or a year, I hope you have found some inspiration in this post and are ready to explore some amazing places.

If you know of anything I may have missed off of this list, drop it in the comments, I’d love to check it out myself some time and maybe add it to the list.

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Best Day Trips From Madrid, Spain You Can’t Miss

By: Author Karla Ramos

Best Day Trips From Madrid

Madrid may be one of the best places to see when you’re in Spain , but it definitely isn’t the only jewel worth your admiration. Spain is mesmerizing, and there’s so much to see! Thankfully, many of these other places can be reached as day trips from Madrid, so you don’t have to puzzle out your itinerary too much.

Surrounded by a trifecta of UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Madrid’s central location and status as a transportation hub within Spain makes getting out and exploring the surrounding towns a breeze. Here are some great places to spend an afternoon out of the city and further explore Spanish culture.

In just two hours or less, in the comfort of a train, you can see some of Spain’s amazing towns and cities! Let’s get started on the best day trips from Madrid that you should definitely add to your itinerary. 

Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

Once Spain’s capital, Toledo still sports much of its old grandeur. It’s as if Toledo is frozen in time, its ancient monuments still standing defiantly against the ravages of the years. This makes it a must-do day trip for anyone in Madrid! Don’t miss its spiritual landmarks from the city’s Catholic, Islamic, and Jewish history. I also found the natural view of the city, such as the River Tagus, a sight to behold. If you can, stay overnight to experience Toledo at its best.

How To Get From Madrid to Toledo:

From Madrid, go to Atocha Station and board the high-speed trains bound for Toledo. You’ll get there in a little more than 30-45 minutes! You can book your tickets in advance via the RENFE site, since they sell out during peak season. If you want to enjoy the sights more, you can go to the Plaza Eliptica and take the ALSA bus.

What To See in Toledo

Don’t miss the Toledo Cathedral, with its overwhelming interiors! Drown in the beauty of the art, and in the solemnity of the vast space. 

Visit the 15th century Cathedral to see paintings by Titian, Goya, Raphael and El Greco, who called Toledo home in his later years. Explore the military barracks and marvel at the beauty of churches like San Juan de Los Reyes and the Jesuits Church. Wander the Alcazar castle, which was nearly destroyed in 1936 and then rebuilt, and stroll along the defensive ramparts of the city walls.

Toledo is known for its excellence in crafting swords. Merchants sell ornately designed swords all over town, and will ship them directly home for you. Ceramics and a gold and black enamel, often used to make plates and spoons, are also popular souvenirs. Sit in the Plaza de Zocodover to relax and people-watch or browse the Tuesday market and explore the shops and cafes on Calle Santo Tomé.

To really get into the culture and the sights, it can be helpful to understand the history. What a history it is too. For more on Toledo history, read this article!

Best Madrid to Toledo Day Trips

• Toledo & Segovia Tour with Alcazar Tickets
• Toledo 7 Monument Walking Tour
• Hop On/Hop Off Toledo Tour
• Toledo City Legends Night Tour
• Private Tour of Toledo with a Local

Salamanca Day Trips from Madrid

Salamanca is hailed to be one of the best-preserved Renaissance cities in the continent. It’s also a  UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the oldest University in the country. I think of it as a more laid-back cousin of Toledo, with the same jaw-dropping views and much fewer tourists. I enjoyed a few excellent museums here, too!

How To Get from Madrid to Salamanca:

From Madrid’s Chamartin station, board a train that leaves for the Salamanca station. The trains leave 4 times a day, and the travel time is approximately 2.5 to 4 h. From the train station, you can get to the Salamanca city center in around 15 minutes. You can also take the ALVIA bus, which takes about 1.5 hours. 

What To See in Salamanca:

Don’t miss Plaza Mayor, considered to be the best square in the whole country. The New Cathedral is also a wonderful sight, with its ever-evolving carvings. I spotted an astronaut engraved here! The Casa de las Conchas is a bit eccentric, but nevertheless beautiful — it is covered in seashell designs, hence the name. Time your visit anytime between 1 to 3PM, too! This is Salamanca’s lunchtime, and it’s when the biggest and best servings come out of the kitchens!

Top Day Trips from Madrid to Salamanca

• Private Salamanca Tour with a Local
• Monument Walking Tour of Salamanca
• Tour of Salamanca and Avila

Segovia Day Trip

Home to yet another UNESCO site, Segovia is about 2 hours by train from Madrid. While you could easily spend a few days here, you can get a good taste of the city in an afternoon. Segovia’s main attraction is its 1st century Roman aqueduct, an engineering marvel that brought water to the city. Azoguejo Square provides a great vantage point for viewing the aqueduct.

Most tourists go to Segovia just to see the immortal Roman Aqueduct, thought to date back to the first century. But the whole city is worth a tour, from the former Royal Mint to the armory museum that is part of the magnificent Alcazar. I also got a kick out of trying the famous delicacies here, including a Spanish version of the Filipino lechon de leche !

Segovia’s Alcázar, known as the inspiration for Cinderella’s castle in the Disney cartoon, was the site of King Philip II’s wedding and is currently a museum. The 18th century Gothic Cathedral and Museo de Segovia, home to historical artifacts and art, are also worth a visit to further understand the area’s rich history and culture.

How To Get From Madrid to Segovia:

There are two trains that leave for Segovia. The Atocha station has regional trains that leave in erratic schedules, taking a scenic 2-3 hour trip to Segovia Station. The high-speed trains from Chamartin, on the other hand, leave regularly and arrive at Segovia-Guiomar in under half an hour.

What To See in Segovia:

Aside from the common touristy places, head to Vera Cruz outside the Old Town. I found this to be a little secret of the locals — the church is a 12-sided structure that was built in the 13th century, by none other than the Knights Templar! To read more about the rich history of this town before visiting, check this article out !

Awesome Day Trips from Madrid to Segovia

• Walking Tour of Segovia
• Hot Air Balloon Experience and Guided Segovia Tour 
• Segovia Bike Tour

Avila Day Trips from Madrid

This one tends to be overlooked by most tourists who flock en masse to the above-mentioned cities. But Avila has a claim to fame, as the “Town of Stones and Saints”. It is the birthplace of St. Teresa (founder of the Carmelites), and it also has the most density of Gothic and Romanesque churches in a single place. The “stone” part cannot be missed — the town has more than 80 towers, and 9   gates from which people enter!

How To Get From Madrid to Avila:

From Madrid’s Chamartin station, take the TRN train which would take you to Avila in about 90 minutes. The regional trains are only a bit slower, taking two hours to reach the Avila station. From there, the town itself is an easy 15-minute stroll.

What To See in Avila:

I have seen a lot of old towers and fortifications, but seeing so many of them at once in a single place is something else entirely! The walls are so strong that you can still walk atop some of them. The best ones are Puerta del Alcazar and the Puerta de San Vicente.

Best Day Trips from Madrid to Avila

• Walls of Avila and Segovia Tour
• El Escoria, Segovia, and Avila Tour

From Madrid to Cuenca 

For this last entry, let’s move away from the stunningly elegant to the stunningly jarring. Smack dab in one of the least-populated provinces in the country is the well-preserved town of Cuenca . The main attractions here are the casas colgadas , hanging houses that teeter over the dizzying cliffs! The first thought that entered my mind was, “why aren’t these houses toppling down?” You really have to see them first-hand to see how awesome they are!

How To Get from Madrid to Cuenca:

Head to Madrid’s Atocha Station, and board one of the hourly trains bound for Aranjuez and then switch trains to Cuenca. The journey is about 3 h – 3.5 h. 

What To See in Cuenca:

Cuenca loves its heights. Aside from the casas colgadas, the San Pablo Bridge is every acrophobic’s worst nightmare! The Museum of Spanish Abstract Art is located within one of the casas colgadas. It’s the place to bee if you’d steer clear of extremes.

Spain has something for everyone, so whether you’re in for just an afternoon of pretty sights or an in-depth exploration of culture and history, take your pick among these five towns and cities and experience Spain like never before!

Top Day Trips From Madrid to Cuenca

• Cuenca Sightseeing Walking Tour
• Cathedral and Cuenca City Tour
• Self Guided Wine Museum and Cuenca Church Tour

El Escorial

El Escorial is another UNESCO World Heritage site close to Madrid with trains regularly making the 45 km journey between the two towns. The town is most famous for being the location of Spain’s largest monastery, the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Built in the 16th century, the Monastery was created by King Philip II as a mausoleum. The grounds now contain a basilica with gilt bronze statues, a monastery, a beautiful library, and living quarters. The remains of Phillip II and his parents, Charles V and the Empress Isabel of Portugal, are housed here. The Chapter House showcases a collection of paintings from masters like Titian and Tintoretto and houses El Greco’s work, “The Martyrdom of St. Maurice”.

There are many options to venture outside the Spanish Capital and explore some smaller towns and cities. Day trips are great, because you don’t have the hassle to switch hotel rooms and get used to a new surrounding and you can actually see quite a bit, especially if you go on organized tours that pack in the highlights. Enjoy your time exploring Spain.

Best Day Trips from Madrid was written by Karina Angela Ramos and Katie Hammel.

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Best Day Trips from Madrid

Looking for the best day trips from Madrid?  

Madrid’s central location in Spain makes it easy for visitors to explore wonderful nearby places and optimize their stay in Spain.

Best day trips from Madrid

From historic towns to breathtaking landscapes, these trips offer a perfect escape from the bustling city. These are, in my opinion, the best day trips from Madrid:

In my opinion, Segovia is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It´s located less than 60 miles (96 kilometers) away from Madrid, and you can easily get there by high-speed train, coach, and car. Segovia is one of my favorite day trips from Madrid.

Full of charm and history , Segovia has been a World Heritage City since 1985. 

You will be able to explore on foot unique points of interest like the Roman aqueduct , amazingly preserved through its more than two-thousand-year-old history; the Segovia Cathedral , one of the last Gothic cathedrals built in Europe in the mid-16th century; and the amazing Alcazar , which inspired some of the most famous Walt Disney films.

What to do in Segovia

• With more than 25,000 granite blocks and over 28 meters high, the Aqueduct is the symbol of Segovia and one of the most spectacular legacies of the Roman Empire in Spain. The preservation of this masterpiece of hydraulic engineering is excellent.

The Gothic Cathedral is known as “ The Lady of Cathedrals ” due to its grandeur and harmony in dimensions. The numerous stained glass windows, the Altarpiece, the choir, and the Chapels of El Santisimo Sacramento and San Andres are particularly remarkable. The bell tower, with almost 90 meters high, is a privileged sightseeing point of Segovia.

The Alcazar dates back to the year 1120 and is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful castles near Madrid . The design of this prototypical fairy-tale castle inspired Walt Disney’s vision of the famous Snow White’s castle .

The City Wall, the Jewish Quarter, and numerous churches and museums are some additional attractions you will discover in this unique city.

• But Segovia is famous not only for its monuments but also for its excellent gastronomy . The roast suckling pig, the leg of lamb, and beans of La Granja are examples of this traditional cuisine.

Looking for the best things to do in Segovia on a day trip from Madrid? Check now my complete Segovia Travel Guide to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Toledo is located less than 45 miles (72 kilometers) away from Madrid and is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Spain.

Toledo was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 for its extensive monumental and cultural heritage . In my opinion, Toledo is one of the best day trips from Madrid.

• It is usually referred to as the city of the three cultures due to the strong influences of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Toledo had large communities of Jews and Muslims until they were expelled from Spain in 1492 and 1502.

What to do in Toledo

Toledo has been a traditional steel-working center and came to the attention of Rome when used by Hannibal in the Punic Wars. The city subsequently became a source of weaponry for the Roman legions.

Today, Toledo boasts numerous landmarks that showcase its historical and architectural significance. Visitors can marvel at iconic sites such as the Cathedral, the Alcazar, the San Roman church, and the San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, among many others.

• The Puerta de Bisagra is my favorite city gate in Toledo. The gate is of Moorish origin, but the main part was built in 1559 and it carries the coat of arms of the emperor Charles V.

With its monumental richness and close proximity to the capital of Spain, Toledo is a must-visit destination for most tourists exploring Madrid.

Avila , a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, is a Spanish fortified city located less than 70 miles (110 kilometers) away from Madrid.

Although the image of the medieval town comes from its prominent walls , which are much more than a mere symbol in the city, Avila is one of the cities in Spain with more Gothic and Romanesque churches.

Throughout the early medieval period, Avila alternated between Moorish and Christian rule until the Reconquest by Alfonso VI in 1085. Walls, palaces, churches, and convents are just a part of the town’s rich artistic heritage.

What to do in Avila

• The medieval walls have a perimeter of 1,5 miles (2.5 kilometers) long, 87 turrets and 9 gates, and they are perfectly preserved . Visitors are allowed to walk along more than half of the total perimeter.

The Avila Cathedral , the first Gothic cathedral in Spain, the Basilica de San Vicente, Convento de Santa Teresa, and the Real Monasterio de Santo Tomas are some of the most remarkable points of interest you cannot skip in your day trip from Madrid to Avila.

Ávila is also the town of St Teresa of Jesus , one of the most important figures in Spanish spirituality.

The excellent roasts and famous Avila veal cutlet are examples of the local cuisine as well as the famous dessert “yemas” of Saint Teresa.

The artistic heritage, culture, history, and gastronomy make it worth a day trip to Avila from Madrid.

San Lorenzo del Escorial

San Lorenzo del Escorial is a town located in the southeastern side of the Sierra de Guadarrama, 30 miles (50 kilometers) away from Madrid. It’s a beautiful monumental heritage town surrounded by mountains and forests.

Thanks to its privileged location on the Madrid Mountains and closeness to Madrid, San Lorenzo del Escorial has become a usual day trip destination for Madrid residents as well as numerous national and international visitors because of its patrimonial, cultural and natural attractions.

What to do in San Lorenzo de El Escorial

• The Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial ( El Escorial Monastery ) is the most remarkable landmark in the town. The Monastery and its historic surroundings were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984.

Philip II ordered the construction of the Escorial Monastery to commemorate the victory of his troops in the battle of San Quentin in 1557 and act as the mausoleum for both his parents and himself. Works began in 1563 under the architect Juan Bautista de Toledo, but it was Juan de Herrera who characterized the building with his own Herreran-style.

The Escorial Monastery is a place of impressive dimensions and great value . Inside, the Pantheon of Kings and Infants, the Basilica of the Escorial, and Real library, among other areas, are especially remarkable. A stroll through the beautiful Monastery’s gardens is highly advisable.

In my opinion, San Lorenzo del Escorial is one of the best day trips from Madrid, don’t skip the visit!

Aranjuez is pretty close to Madrid and easy to get to but, most important, it is a wonderful place. This historic location was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in December 2001.

Aranjuez has been one of the Royal Sites of the Spanish monarchy since 1560, during the reign of Philip II. That is why it is known as a Royal Site.

History, traditions, architecture, green areas, and gastronomy are just a few of the reasons why you should visit Aranjuez from Madrid.

I personally love Aranjuez, especially in Spring and Fall. In my opinion, this day trip from Madrid is a must for every visitor.

What to do in Aranjuez

• Aranjuez is mostly known for its spectacular Royal Palace . Starting with the Main Staircase you will discover unique works of art and rooms such as the Porcelain Cabinet, the Hall of Mirrors, the Throne Room, the Queen´s bedroom, the Ballroom, and the Smoking Room.

Aranjuez is also renowned for its stunning selection of historic gardens surrounding the Royal Palace. V isiting these green spaces is one of the best things to do in Aranjuez on your day trip from Madrid.

Independent traveling or guided tour from Madrid

Should you book a guided tour for your day trip from Madrid or do it on our own?

Day trips from Madrid on your own

One of the most obvious advantages of independent traveling is the freedom and flexibility to make your own decisions on how to spend the time of your day trip from Madrid. You can walk at your own pace, and spend more or less time  at each monument depending on your preferences. .

• On the other hand, you will certainly have to do more planning for your day trips from Madrid.

And no matter how hard you plan, it will be tough that you get the same detailed knowledge than a professional guide who has made the tour thousands of times. 

So there is a risk that you miss some hidden gems at your destination or you don’t properly understand the history and other specifications of the points of interest.

This is why I usually book individual guided tours in most of the landmarks I visit even when I am traveling unguided, it helps me to be more involved in the local culture . 

Besides, it’s more convenient for me to contemplate a monument while a professional guide gives me detailed explanations rather than reading it from a guide book.

• Coordinating all the logistics of your day trip from Madrid, like transportation, tickets, schedules, and restaurants can be tiring and time-consuming .

If you’re short on time , it’s definitely much more efficient a guided tour with a pre-arranged itinerary handled by a professional travel agency.

In case you finally decide to go on your own, do some research and plan your route in advance. It depends on how long it takes to get to your destination, but I usually get up early when I go on a day-trip. 

Besides, if you are visiting Madrid in Autumn or Winter, be aware that daylight will have gone by 18:00.

It could also take longer than expected to catch your way of transport or to rent your car if this is your choice. Traffic and driving in a foreign country can also slow down your trip, so you should always include some extra time in your planning for unexpected events.

• Experience has taught me that an internet connection is always helpful when you travel by yourself, it could save your day. Consider if you need to purchase a local SIM card for your phone.

If cutting costs is a priority for you and your budget is tight, don’t forget to include the cost of transport, gas, insurance, tolls, entrance tickets, and time into your calculations when making price comparisons.

I have found out that many times a guided tour could originally seem much more expensive, but much of that price difference vanishes when taking into account all the expenses of making a Madrid day trip on your own.

Guided tours from Madrid

Organized tours from Madrid can be fun, convenient, and more relaxing in some ways. Taking a guided tour means removing all the hassle of the planning stage.

Guided tours include the local expertise of expert guides that provide interesting background information on every point of interest. 

Visitors who choose group tours will also meet and share the trip with other people , which makes the experience more rewarding.

The most important advantages of guided tours are that you will know the full price in advance, everything will be taken care of by the travel agency, expert guides will provide interesting background information on every landmark you visit, and you will benefit of private transport to get you from place to place.

• Taking a guided tour means removing all the hassle of the planning stage. Besides, if you are traveling solo, you may miss some hidden gems and details the agency knows about.

Spain is a very safe country , but unexpected events can always happen anywhere. Some visitors feel much safer and enjoy much more the visit when traveling with a professional agency.

Another clear advantage of the guided tours from Madrid is private transportation , you will not waste time waiting for public transport or searching for parking if you have rented a car.

Having a professional guide is ideal for locations where you can’t speak the local language . An experienced and knowledgeable guide can make your one-day trip from Madrid much more rewarding by helping you understand more about a particular site and the local culture.

• The downside of the guided day tours from Madrid that you will have less flexibility and will depend on the schedules established by the travel agency.

Agencies are obviously aware of this fact, that’s why they often seek to balance group time with free time and snapshot moments.

It’s not possible to say which is the best option for a day trip from Madrid. Both guided tours and traveling on your own have different pros and cons. 

In my opinion, and when I’m in a foreign country with a different language, the convenience and expertise of a professional guide beat the flexibility of visiting on your own.

No matter if you travel solo or in a group, keep on reading to find out which are the best day trips from Madrid.

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Madrid Day Trips

Welcome to our curated collection of day trips from Madrid, all easily reachable with your private driver and in the style, luxury, and comfort of our premium air-conditioned vehicles.

Allow us to introduce you to a range of one-of-a-kind guided tours that promise to take you on a journey beyond the city’s bustling plazas and museums as you enjoy these guided journeys into the heart of the Castile region, departing from your accommodation in Madrid.

Best Day Trips From Madrid

Just a stone’s throw from the city center, you will discover a world steeped in history, natural beauty, and architectural wonders.

Take a stroll through the royal gardens of Aranjuez, a town recognized for its cultural landscape. Visit the charming village of Chinchón with its characteristic plaza and unique anise liqueur. Marvel at Cuenca’s dramatic cliffs and ancient hanging houses, a fascinating city etched into a landscape that seems to defy gravity.

Venture further to El Escorial, an opulent testament to Spain’s historical power and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where its grand monastery and royal palace hold centuries of stories.

Contact our team of expert local travel planners to find out more about our incredible range of day trips and more from Madrid!

Day Trip to Segovia From Madrid

Private Guided Tour of Hemingway’s Madrid

Guided Day Tour of El Escorial

Private Guided Day Tour of Cuenca

Cervantes Day Trip Leaving From Madrid

Chinchón & Aranjuez Day Trip From Madrid

Meet Our Founder & Owner

Hola from Spain! I’m Emily Matthews, tour director at Guided Spain Tours.

After working as a guide for several years, the arrival of my wonderful children has seen me build our agency, where I now channel my energy into crafting personalized custom tours across Spain’s diverse regions.

Our team of tour planners and officially licensed guides are delighted to offer their local insight and knowledge to deliver bespoke itineraries and seamless experiences for your Spanish Vacation. We look forward to getting to know you and creating memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

Let Us Plan Your Day Trips From Madrid

We understand every traveler is unique, so we specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries that precisely suit your tastes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a food connoisseur, we’ve got you covered.

With us, you will visit and truly experience the picturesque landscapes and historical gems around Madrid. Allow us to curate a personal journey into Castile, delivering the finest experiences that the region offers, all in the comfort of your private, personalized day trip.

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

US: +1 (240) 332-1519

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14 Days North Iberia

10 Day Spain & Portugal

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3 Day Mallorca Tour

Foodie Tour Itinerary In Spain & Portugal

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7 Day Basque Country

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Food & Wine Tour

Madrid & andalucia in one week .

14 Day Spain & Portugal

11 Days Hiking in Spain

21 Day Spain Itinerary

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