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If your planning to visit Madrid, you should make the most of it by experiencing some of the beautiful towns nearby. You can take the train, bus, metro or drive easily to some of my Top 10 favourite day trips from Madrid.
1. Toledo
This has got to probably be one of the most popular day trips from Madrid. I believe it's known for its three Christianity, Judaism and Muslim faith communities, with many religious buildings throughout the city. Toledo is a day trip you must do at least once in your life!
My favourite things to do in Toledo, Spain -
- See the monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.
- Visit the Sephardic museum which was once a synagogue.
- Visit the Toledo cathedral; it's stunning!
- See the most famous painting of El Greco in the Church of Santo Tome.
- Have a walk; the streets are beautiful and so old and traditional.
- See the beautiful scenic view of Mirador del Valle!
2. Salamanca
This Spanish city has a tone of history and culture and is probably one of the most gorgeous university cites of Madrid I’ve ever been too. The Cathedral and Gothic architecture are stunning sites not to be missed!
My favourite things to do in Salamanca, Spain -
- Visit the Convento de San Esteban; a magnificent monastery.
- See the incredibly old university dating back from 1094!
- Visit the Convento de la Duenas it has the most beautiful courtyard.
- See the views from the Jesuits’ bell tower by climbing the Clerecia tower!
- Have a walk or sit and try some Spanish tapas in the Plaza Mayor square.
- Visit the old… and the older cathedral of Salamanca.
3. Segovia
Segovia has plenty of unique monuments and offers amazing views! Its a World Heritage city. Its Roman aqueduct runs through the middle of the city and happens to be the most famous and photographed landmark here. This is a place to be explored!
My favourite things to do in Segovia, Spain -
- Visit the Roman Aqueduct built in 50 AD; one of Spain’s best-preserved and well-known monuments!
- See the Alcazar castle or even have a tour of the public halls, chapel, tower and artillery.
- Visit the Gothic-style cathedral - a beautiful building with lots to see.
- See the gardens of the Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso.
- Visit the Plaza Mayor which is another gorgeous Spanish Square.
4. Aranjuez
If you like nature, flowers, fountains and gardens, this is a day trip you will love! It's fascinating to explore the palace and feel as though you’ve stepped back in the past.
My favourite things to do in Aranjuez, Spain -
- Visit the palace grounds and floral displays at the Parterre Garden.
- Explore the palace building and see some of the amazing pottery pieces.
- See the Casa de Labrador; a lovely royal country house.
5. San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
The building itself was built during the Renaissance period and the palace is huge! The surrounding scenery is also breath-taking.
My favourite things to do in El Escorial, Spain -
- Visit the castle and monastery. The artistic architecture is incredible with its fountains, towers and sculptures.
- See the grounds starting with the Friar’s Garden, the Orchard Garden and enjoy the views that surround the countryside.
- Enjoy the town and take a break at one of their many cafes, restaurants.
6. Parque de Europa
Parque Europa is located in Torrejón de Ardoz and has 17 replica monuments of Europe’s most well-known cities. There are also many restaurants and picnic areas as well as different activities like archery and laser tag. This is free entry and can take up a whole day to walk around because there is so much to see.
My favourite things to do in Parque de Europa, Spain -
- Take a photo with the Eiffel Tower.
- Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the lake.
- Walk across the London Bridge.
- Zip Wire across the park.
- Visit the Berlin Wall ( with a genuine piece of the wall).
- See Belem Tower (Lisbon).
7. Navacerrada and Cercedilla (in winter!)
Madrid has a huge number of mountain ranges and winter is my favourite time to visit when you can launch yourself through the snow and sledge down the slopes. The ski season tends to start on the first weekend of December.
My favourite things to do in Puerto de Navacerrado, Spain -
- Visit the town of Navacerrada which has a mountain village-style.
- Enjoy Puerto de Navacerrada and try tobogganing. You can even rent ski equipment here as well as hats, ski pants etc.
- See the museum in Cercedilla which celebrates the evolution of skiing in Spain.
8. Manzanares el Real in La Pedriza
This nature reserve is perfect for a nice hike, to take in nature and hear the peacefulness from the sounds of the waterfalls.
My favourite things to do in Manzanares el Real, La Pedriza, Spain -
- Enjoy a hike and admire the beauty of La Pedriza.
- Walk along the Manzanares river.
- Take a dip in the natural water hole of La Charca Verde accompanied by a spot of sunbathing and indulging in a picnic fit for a real Spaniard.
9. Cuenca
Cuenca has incredible medieval-vibes, with its fortified walls and cobblestone filled streets. There’s some of the most glorious lookout points and cute little alleyways; a place full of real history and beauty.
My favourite things to do in Cuenca, Spain -
- Explore Spain’s first-ever Gothic cathedral!
- Take a trip to the Enchanted City with its interesting limestone shape.
- Visit the Spanish Abstract art Museum and enjoy its paintings and sculptures.
- See the Hanging Houses which hang off a cliff metres above the river.
10. San Juan Reservoir
The reservoir is situated on the Alberche River of San Juan where you can enjoy the ‘beach’ and even try out some outdoor activities if you’re feeling adventurous. Take a look…
My favourite things to do at the San Juan Reservoir, Spain -
- Try out a water sport like kayaking or canoeing.
- Experience rock climbing, hiking or Nordic walking.
- Relax in the beach bars with a Spanish inspired drink.
Please let me know any of your favourite Spanish day trips in Spain that you've experienced so far? Where or what do you recommend? Do you prefer outdoor activities, strolling through the streets or exploring the museums?
‘Like Spain, I am bound to the past.’
– William S. Burroughs
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