Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid’s Surroundings
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Get Out of Town: Toledo, Segovia, and Avila
If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid for a day, some of the best options are the historic cities of Toledo, Segovia, and Avila. These destinations allow you to step back in time and experience the rich history and culture of Spain.
Toledo is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid, just an hour south by train or car. This city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and monuments. Wander along its narrow cobblestone streets and take in sights like the imposing Alcazar fortress, the 13th century Gothic cathedral, and the Santa Maria la Blanca synagogue. Don't miss the view from Mirador del Valle for panoramic vistas of the city. Toledo was also home to El Greco, and you can visit the El Greco Museum dedicated to his life and works.
Segovia is another medieval gem, just 30 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train. It's famous for its Roman aqueduct, which cuts through the heart of the city. Take a walk on top of the aqueduct for views of Segovia's skyline. The Alcazar of Segovia is an inspiration for Disney's Cinderella castle and worth exploring too. And Segovia has plenty of quaint plazas and churches to discover. Foodies will also enjoy Segovia's specialty dish, roast suckling pig.
Avila is a bit further from Madrid at about 90 minutes by train or bus, but still doable as a day trip. This is one of the best preserved medieval walled cities in Spain. Walk along the fully intact 11th-century walls and admire the 88 watchtowers and 9 gateways. Inside the walls, highlights include the fortified palace of Los Velada and the 12th-century cathedral with its ornate interior. There are great views of the walls and surrounding plains from Cuatro Postes hill. Avila is also known as the birthplace of Saint Teresa, and you can visit the convent where she lived.
What else is in this post?
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Get Out of Town: Toledo, Segovia, and Avila
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Nature Calls: Hiking in the Guadarrama Mountains
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Wine Not? Day Trips to La Rioja and Ribera del Duero
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Follow El Camino: Day Trips Along the Way to Santiago
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Royal Retreats: Escorial and Aranjuez
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Hit the Beach: Day Trips to Coastal Towns
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Go Back in Time: Alcalá de Henares and Chinchón
- Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Capture it on Camera: Instagrammable Day Trips from Madrid
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Nature Calls: Hiking in the Guadarrama Mountains
If you're an avid hiker or nature lover, you can't miss the opportunity to explore the trails of the Guadarrama Mountains while in Madrid. This wild and rugged sierra makes for an easy day trip escape from the city into spectacular alpine scenery. Located just northwest of Madrid, the Guadarrama Mountains are part of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, offering over 300 miles of marked hiking trails.
One of the most popular hikes is the Cuenca Alta del Manzanares route. This approximately 12-mile round trip trail starts from the Puerto de los Cotos and winds through pine and oak forests, with rewarding panoramic views from several mountain passes. The hike brings you to the impressive Peñalara cirque, a dramatic semicircle of cliff faces. Fit hikers can also summit Peñalara, the tallest peak in the Guadarramas at nearly 8,000 feet. Along the way you're likely to spot Spanish ibex, red deer, wild boar, foxes, and countless bird species.
For a shorter but still scenic hike, check out the valley of La Barranca from the Puerto de Navacerrada. This 4.5-mile loop provides vistas over the dramatic rock faces of La Maliciosa mountain. From the Mirador de Los Canchales overlook, you can take in the valleys of both La Barranca and La Najarra. Late spring is an excellent time for this hike when much of the landscape blooms with flowers.
El Nevero is another recommended trail that starts near the Puerto de los Cotos. This route winds for about 11 miles through pine forest and past small glacial lakes to reach unique rocky plains called 'pedriza.' You'll be treated to views of Peñalara mountain and surrounding peaks as you gain elevation. The trail crosses river gorges over scenic footbridges and visits a waterfall.
No matter which hike you choose, be sure to stop at one of the mountain refuges along the way where you can refuel on traditional Spanish food. These refuges have limited seating, so go early or late to avoid crowds. To fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the sierra, you can also stay overnight in one of the refuges.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Wine Not? Day Trips to La Rioja and Ribera del Duero
Looking to indulge your inner oenophile? Madrid puts some of Spain’s most famous wine regions within easy reach for day trips. Venture by train or rental car just a few hours north of the capital to taste stellar tempranillo-based reds in both La Rioja and Ribera del Duero. From wine tastings in medieval monasteries to tours of cutting-edge wineries, you’ll gain an appreciation for these renowned Spanish wines in their native terroir.
La Rioja sits along the Ebro River, with vineyards blanketing the fertile valley. Around 90 minutes from Madrid by train, it’s straightforward to base yourself in the town of Logroño for wine tasting. Start at the López de Heredia Viña Tondonia winery, which has been making wine since the 1870s. Tour their subterranean aging caves dug right into the hillside. Nearby La Guardia charms with its stone buildings and churches. Call ahead to book a tasting at Marqués de Riscal, one of La Rioja’s pioneering winemakers, dating to 1858. Their winery complex includes an ultra-modern luxury hotel designed by Frank Gehry. Also tour the medieval stone cellars of Palacio Lecea in San Asensio village.
Venture beyond the vineyards to the walled city of Laguardia, filled with history and wine shops. Descend into the spooky underground tunnels of La Puebla de Labarca. And wine lovers shouldn’t miss Marques de Murrieta’s neoclassical Ygay Estate outside Logroño, with tours and tastings by appointment. With its proximity to Madrid, La Rioja offers perhaps the easiest Spanish wine country escape.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Follow El Camino: Day Trips Along the Way to Santiago
While the entire Camino de Santiago is a 500-mile pilgrimage, those short on time can still get a taste of this iconic walk right from Madrid. The Camino Francés route from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela passes just north of Spain’s capital. With a quick train or bus, you can access several villages and historic sites on the Camino for day hikes of the route. Walk a stretch of the trail associated with Saint James without committing to the whole journey.
Starting closest to Madrid in Segovia province, the village of Foncebadón marks an important Camino stop. This remote outpost deep in the Guadarrama Mountains was once a thriving hospital town for medieval pilgrims. Today just a single intact building remains – the late 12th century church Ermita de San Frutos. But you can still glimpse the stone remnants of Foncebadón’s past as you walk through. Hike a stretch of the old calzada romana, or Roman road, used by pilgrims prior to the 12th century.
Further west in Castilla y León, the city of León merits a day trip for its wealth of medieval architecture tied to the Camino. León’s 13th century Gothic cathedral is filled with palpable history – don’t miss its stunning stained glass windows. The 12th century Real Basílica de San Isidoro houses the tombs of ancient Spanish kings. And the city’s old quarter abounds with sites like the Casa Botines by Antoni Gaudí. Walk the Camino path from León, following the scallop shell markers.
In the tiny village of Rabanal del Camino you’ll find one of the most remote stops along the route. At nearly 4,300 feet above sea level, this stone village has long served pilgrims on their westward trek. Admire the 12th century church of Santa María then follow stretches of the scenic trail as it winds through pastures and meadows. Pass through the town of Molinaseca with its medieval bridge spanning the Meruelo River. Or check out the history of the grand monastery in Villafranca del Bierzo.
For wine lovers the Bierzo region offers a detour off the Camino path to tour vineyards and sample hearty Spanish reds. The villages of Estrada and O Cebreiro offer mountain vistas in Galicia’s province of Lugo. One could easily spend a week or more doing day trips along the Camino from Madrid to immerse in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the historic pilgrimage route. With rail links and comfortable buses connecting villages on the Camino, you can tailor one-day itineraries based around your interests. Whether you want to walk Roman ruins, tour Gaudí architecture, visit medieval churches, or savor Spanish wines, the Road to Santiago delivers a memorable taste of legends and landscapes tied to this UNESCO site.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Royal Retreats: Escorial and Aranjuez
If you want to follow in the footsteps of Spanish royalty, two magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites make for easy day trips from Madrid: El Escorial monastery and the Royal Palace of Aranjuez. Both served as opulent retreats and seats of power for past monarchs of Spain.
About 45 minutes northwest of Madrid, El Escorial offers a fascinating glimpse into the Imperial visions of King Philip II. This immense monastery and palace complex sprawls at the foot of the Guadarrama Mountains. El Escorial was built as both a royal residence and a monument to celebrate Philip's victory over the French at the Battle of St. Quentin in 1557.
Construction lasted over 20 years and was finally completed in 1584. The site covers over 1.6 million square feet, with 2,673 windows, 1,200 doors, and 16 courtyards. It's like a small city unto itself, and makes for a full day of exploration. Highlights include the Basilica with the elaborate jasper and marble Pantheon of Kings housing royal tombs. Don't miss the Hall of Battles with its frescoes celebrating Spanish military triumphs. And the extensive monastery library houses thousands of historic manuscripts. For the best views over El Escorial's massive grid-like footprint, head to the Gardens of the Friars with its geometric landscaping punctuated by fountains and grottos.
If you have more time, the Valley of the Fallen monument is also just a couple miles from El Escorial. This controversial Civil War memorial and burial site for Franco draws crowds of tourists and pilgrims. Or for a scenic hike away from the crowds, take on the Ascensión trail from El Escorial up the Guadarrama slopes. At day's end, reflect on El Escorial’s imposing grandeur from the terraces of the charming Los Galayos inn and restaurant. Their sunset views of the monastery are jaw-dropping.
Meanwhile, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez lets you journey back to Spain's 18th century Golden Age of the Bourbons. Nestled at the confluence of the Tagus and Jarama rivers about 45 minutes south of Madrid, this summer palace was beloved by kings and queens for its beauty and extravagance.
The crown jewel is the scenic Gardens of Aranjuez. These sprawling hillside pleasure gardens were designed in the French style and meant to mimic paradise on earth. Follow shaded pathways through flower gardens, fountains, pools, and groves of soaring trees. Don't miss the fanciful building follies tucked into garden corners like the Roman-inspired Temple of Bacchus. Meander through ot he Casa del Labrador with its lavish rococo interior. And take a relaxing rowboat ride along the river.
The Aranjuez palace interior itself overflows with opulence, from the grand staircase to the Porcelain Room with thousands of pieces from the Royal Collection. The Hall of Mirrors has stunning views of the gardens. And the Queen's chambers reflect 18th century luxury and refinement with silk hangings and inlaid furnishings.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Hit the Beach: Day Trips to Coastal Towns
The coast of Spain beckons, with brochure-worthy beaches and charming seaside villages just a few hours from Madrid. Imagine strolling the boardwalk of a historic fishing port, savoring fresh paella while watching the boats bob in the harbor. Or lazing on soft golden sand with the melodic Mediterranean waves lapping at your toes. Spain’s vibrant coastal towns allow city-weary travelers to soak up the laidback seaside ambience on quick day trips from Madrid.
On the Costa de Valencia north of the capital, Gandia brings you right to the water with Playa Gandia stretching over a mile of fine sand. Relax under a rented umbrella, then explore the pedestrian-friendly harbor dotted with al fresco restaurants. Or take a cruise to Colombia Island just offshore to spy its colony of giant lizards. Further up the coast, Valencia's trendy El Cabanyal neighborhood comes alive with street art murals plastering former fishermen homes. The Museum of Rice immerses you in Valencian history and culture.
South of Madrid, history buffs can walk the medieval walls of Cartagena on the Murcia coast. Or discover the massive Roman Theater uncovered right in the heart of this port city. Nearby unwind on the long sandy beaches of La Manga strip, perfect for windsurfing and sailing with consistent breezes. And foodies must try Cartagena’s addicting ‘caldero’ stew, a medley of seafood simmered in a tomato-based broth.
On Spain's southern Andalusian Coast, the laidback village of Nerja charms with its dramatic cliffside setting and sugar-cube whitewashed houses. Spend a day on quiet Burriana Beach or hike the panoramic Camino Natural de Litoral trail along seaside bluffs. Don’t miss Nerja's fascinating Caves, where prehistoric paintings and animal bones date back over 25,000 years. Or soak up history in Granada before escaping to the coast at Motril. This working fishing port comes alive each morning with the catch of the day. Stroll the palm tree-dotted Paseo de Playa boardwalk then choose your favorite spot to sunbathe on over 3 miles of beaches.
For a cosmopolitan beach escape, hip Malaga beckons less than 3 hours by train from Madrid. Spain’s ‘City of Light’ seamlessly blends old and new, with Roman ruins, Moorish castles and cutting-edge art museums. Get your culture fix at the Picasso Museum or Carmen Thyssen Museum. Then unwind on the golden sands of La Malagueta or trendy La Caleta beaches. With a vibrant food scene and glamorous coastal vibe, Malaga encapsulates the best of the Andalusian lifestyle.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Go Back in Time: Alcalá de Henares and Chinchón
Step back in time with day trips from Madrid to the historic towns of Alcalá de Henares and Chinchón. These destinations offer immersive glimpses into Spain’s past, from golden eras of literature to medieval marketplaces.
Founded in the 1st century BC under Roman rule, Alcalá de Henares provides a window into centuries of Spanish history and culture. This UNESCO World Heritage site lies just 40 minutes northeast of Madrid by regional train. As birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the town embraces its rich literary legacy. Visit the house where Don Quixote author Cervantes entered the world in 1547 – it’s now a museum holding original manuscripts. The 15th century University of Alcalá counts Cervantes among its alumni and preserves an enchanting historic campus. Wander through the university’s ornate Mudéjar-style buildings and serene courtyards, passing Gothic arches and intricately carved doorways dating back centuries. Beyond the Cervantes sights, Alcalá impresses visitors with its well-preserved medieval core. The sprawling Plaza de Cervantes acts as an open-air museum ringed by portico-lined buildings with hundreds of years of history. The grand archbishops’ palace and cathedral add to the old world charm. Meandering along the labyrinth of stone lanes, it’s easy to feel whisked back to 15th or 16th century Spain.
Escape the City: The 6 Best Day Trips to Discover Madrid's Surroundings - Capture it on Camera: Instagrammable Day Trips from Madrid
In the social media age, travelers want more than just memories from their vacations; they want envy-inducing photos to share on sites like Instagram. Fortunately, several day trips from Madrid deliver eye-candy aplenty for your timeline. These photogenic Spanish towns and cities burst with character(s), colors, and compelling compositions. Just an hour or two from the capital, you can capture content sure to wow your followers.
Toledo takes the cake as Madrid’s most Instagrammable day trip. This UNESCO World Heritage hub captivates photographers with its hilltop old town gazing over the Tagus River. Shoot the Alcázar fortress backdropped by the cathedral's Gothic spires using an ultra-wide angle lens. At golden hour, snap the iconic Puerta de Alcalá under pastel skies. And don’t miss sunset views of Toledo's skyline from across the river - the Mirador del Valle viewpoint is practically made for your feed. Inside Toledo's maze of stone lanes, frame picturesque plazas flanked by medieval houses with flower-lined balconies. Details like intricate door knockers, stained glass windows, and wrought-iron lanterns add visual interest. For bonus flair, time your Toledo visit to coincide with the Corpus Christi festival when streets get carpeted in roses and elaborate altars fill plazas.
Segovia also stars on social media with its lavish Roman aqueduct that cuts through the heart of town. Shoot the well-preserved arched bridge from below using leading lines to create eye-catching depth. Nearby, the Disney-esque Alcázar palace begs for your widest lens to fit its spires in frame. Against blue skies, its towers and turrets look lifted from a fairy tale. For super 'grams, take your camera to Segovia's quiet plazas surrounded by mansions with peeling pigments. You'll find endless inspiration exploring the city’s atmospheric cobbled lanes and quiet corners.