Top Day Trips from Madrid

The vibrant city of Madrid is overflowing with artistic and culinary treasures, not to mention an irresistible energy of its own. Consequently, there’s so much to explore, making a minimum of three days recommended to immerse yourself in its charms.

Moreover, Madrid serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful towns and attractions throughout Spain. With picturesque walled cities, Roman ruins, atmospheric villages, and even a UNESCO World Heritage-listed palace-monastery complex, all located within an hour from the capital, here’s a selection of the best day trips 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 sought-after 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 around Plaza Santa Clara. Alternatively, following the trail of the artwork of El Greco will lead you to some of the city’s most spectacular sites.

Be sure to visit the majestic Catedral de Toledo, where you can see El Greco’s The Disrobing of Christ. Next, venture to the Museo del Greco, dedicated to the artist’s work, along with other notable attractions such as the Museo de Santa Cruz and Museo Sefardí. These locations offer fascinating insights into Toledo’s rich cultural tapestry.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid: If you decide to drive, take the A-42 south. Alternatively, high-speed trains from Madrid’s Atocha station are available, taking just over 30 minutes.

2. See an Impressive Roman Aqueduct in Segovia

Travel Time: 30 minutes

In Segovia, one of Spain’s most remarkable Roman monuments, El Acueducto, towers over the eastern entrance to the old city. The picturesque, traffic-free streets lead past Romanesque churches and charming squares to the city’s heart, the Plaza Mayor, which is overlooked by a stunning 16th-century Gothic cathedral.

Continuing your journey through the cobbled streets, you will reach El Alcázar. This iconic castle is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s design for Sleeping Beauty’s castle, offering breathtaking views 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

Chinchón stands out as one of the loveliest villages nearby Madrid, featuring an enchanting town square at its core. All roads lead to the rustic Plaza Mayor, a charming representation of Spain’s traditional village squares, surrounded by distinctive sagging balconies on wooden buildings. This square hosts the town’s biggest fiestas and special events throughout the year.

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid: Located 45km southeast of Madrid, you can drive via the N-IV motorway exiting onto the M404, or catch a bus from Avenida del Mediterráneo.

4. Walk the Medieval Walls Surrounding Ávila

Travel Time: 1 hour

Encircled by impressive city walls, Ávila offers a unique and intimate urban experience. The city stands out with its near-perfect 12th-century Murallas, which run for 2.5km and feature eight arched gateways and numerous watchtowers.

Exploring this historic town allows you to enjoy stunning views and visit notable landmarks, including the Catedral del Salvador and the significant Convento de Santa Teresa.

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

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

Travel Time: 1 hour

San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of Spain’s grandest royal monuments, standing majestically amidst the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama. The Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial is not only a palace-monastery but also a treasure trove of artworks by renowned artists such as El Greco and Hieronymus Bosch.

Surrounding the monastery are the royal gardens, exemplifying classic monumental landscaping.

How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid: Trains are available from Madrid’s Atocha or Chamartín stations, with a bus transport option also available from the city’s Intercambiador de Autobuses de Moncloa.

6. Be Awed by the Royal Palace of Aranjuez

Travel Time: 45 minutes

Aranjuez boasts a royal palace and stunning gardens in an energetic provincial town. This palace is a true marvel, far grander than those in Madrid itself, modeled after France’s Versailles. The expansive grounds contain numerous attractions, including museums that display the extravagant lifestyle of Spanish royals.

How to get to Aranjuez: Take the N-IV south, following signs to Aranjuez, or board the C3 cercanías trains that depart frequently from Madrid.