17 Day Trips From Madrid

1. Toledo

• Rich history influenced by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
• Must-visit sites include Alcazar de Toledo, Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, El Greco Museum, and Toledo Cathedral.
• San Martin’s Bridge offers picturesque photo opportunities.
• Enjoy spectacular views from Mirador del Valle and dine at Restaurante Alfileritos 24.

2. Salamanca

• Home to the massive Salamanca Cathedral.
• Explore the Roman Bridge, Casa de las Conchas, and Convent of San Esteban.
• Distinctive sandstone architecture and beautiful plaza.

3. El Escorial

• Features the largest Renaissance building in the world.
• El Escorial comprises a monastery, royal palace, pantheon, museum, school, library, and hospital.
• Close to another significant monument, the Valley of the Fallen.

4. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Spanish Royal Family’s summer residence.
• Famous for its exquisite gardens and 16th-century architecture.
• Option to book a hot-air balloon ride for a unique experience.

5. Avila

• Famed for its well-preserved medieval walls.
• Key attractions include Real Monasterio de Santo Tomás, Puerta del Alcázar, and Plaza Mercado Chico.
• Offers a mix of churches, palaces, and historic squares.

6. Plasencia

• Known for medieval walls, Roman aqueducts, and historical sites.
• Notable sites: Cathedral of Plasencia, Plaza Mayor, Palacio de Mirabel.
• Home to Restaurante Succo, famous for its Spanish-style suckling pig.

7. Segovia

• Famous for the Roman Aqueduct of Segovia and Alcazar of Segovia, an inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
• Explore Segovia Cathedral and Casa De Los Picos.
• Hot-air balloon rides offer a unique perspective of the city.

8. Chinchón

• Renowned for its food, Medieval town square, and wineries.
• Dine at La Repesca Casa de Vinos or Restaurante La Casa del Pregonero.
• Bodega del Nero offers a memorable winery tour and tasting.

9. Cuenca

• Famous for the Hanging Houses, a UNESCO site.
• Adjacent Spanish Abstract Art Museum is free to visit.
• San Pablo Bridge and Cuenca Cathedral are other attractions.

10. Ribera del Duero

• Renowned for world-class red wines.
• Wineries include Bodegas Portia and Bodega Historica Don Carlos.
• Explore historic castles like Peñaranda de Duero and Peñafiel Castle.
• Consider a guided winery tour for a comprehensive experience.

11. Valladolid

• Filled with diverse museums, including the Valladolid Science Museum and Museo Patio Herreriano.
• Historic sites like Palacio de Santa Cruz and the Cathedral of Valladolid.
• Shopping opportunities at Pasaje Gutiérrez Mall and Mercado del Val.

12. Gredos Mountains Regional Park

• Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.
• Stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.
• Discover Cars recommended for flexible transportation.

13. Albacete

• Features Pasaje de Lodares, Castle of Alcalá del Júcar, and Plaza de Toros de Albacete.
• Excellent hiking trails and vibrant nightlife with bars like Pub Tnt Rock & Beer.

14. Buendia

• Home to The Route of Faces, an open-air sculpture museum.
• One-mile hike offers a unique mix of art and nature.

15. Guadalajara

• Notable for the Palace of El Infantado with unique architecture.
• Museum of Guadalajara showcases local art and culture.

16. Cercedilla

• Popular winter destination for skiing at The Navacerrada Pass Ski Station resort.
• Offers a mix of outdoor activities in both summer and winter.

17. Burgos

• Stunning Gothic cathedral and panoramic Mirador Del Castillo viewpoint.
• Local delicacies include Morcilla de Burgos and Queso de Burgos.
• Museum of Evolution and historic sites like Huelgas Monastery and Castillo de Burgos.