Madrid is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, but those who want to explore the region more deeply will find amazing places just outside the capital. Nearby towns are home to impressive monuments, unique landscapes and stories that reveal even more about Spain’s rich cultural heritage. Best of all, these destinations are easy to reach using the trains and buses that connect Madrid with many surrounding areas. From medieval walls and royal palaces to ancient aqueducts, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ve selected five ideal day trip destinations, perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in Madrid without relying on a car.
Toledo
Toledo was the first capital of Spain and played a key role in the country’s history. Known for the coexistence of Christians, Jews and Muslims over centuries, the city preserves one of the richest architectural heritages in Spain and offers everything you would expect from a true medieval city. Its narrow streets lead to landmarks such as Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar and former synagogues, all bearing witness to the cultural diversity that shaped the region.
How to get there
by Train
- Departure: Puerta de Atocha Station
- Travel time: 33 minutes
- Advantage: Fast and comfortable
- Average price: €10–€15
Toledo’s train station is about 1.5 km from the historic city centre. The walk takes around 20 minutes and includes a steady uphill section, but there are public escalators along the way to help with the climb. For those who prefer not to walk, local buses connect the station to the city centre, and taxis are available just outside the station.
by Bus
- Departure: Plaza Elíptica Station
- Travel time: 1 hour
- Advantage: More budget-friendly
- Average price: €7
Buses arrive at Toledo’s bus station, located about 1 km from the historic centre. The walk takes around 15 minutes on a more direct route and includes some uphill sections, but public escalators are available to make the climb easier. Taxis and local buses are also available at the station for those who prefer not to walk.
What to see in Toledo
- Toledo Cathedral: Gothic architecture, known for its tower and chapels
- Alcázar of Toledo: Historic fortress, now home to the Army Museum
- Puerta de Bisagra: One of the city’s most iconic gates
- Santa María La Blanca Synagogue: Former synagogue with Moorish-style architecture
- Alcántara Bridge: Medieval bridge over the River Tagus
- San Martín Bridge: Another stunning medieval bridge
- El Greco Museum: Dedicated to the Renaissance painter El Greco, who lived in Toledo
- Mirador del Valle: Viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and the River Tagus
- Museum of Santa Cruz: Located in a former hospital, with exhibitions on local art and history
- …e muito mais! A cidade inteira é sensacional!
Segovia
Segovia is known for its Roman aqueduct, which is nearly two thousand years old and considered one of the best-preserved in the world. Highlights include the Alcázar, once a royal residence, and the Cathedral. The city has well-preserved historical buildings from different periods, medieval streets and an atmosphere that reflects its significance throughout the centuries.
How to get there
by Train
- Departure: Chamartín Station
- Travel time: 30 minutes
- Average price: €10–€20
- Arrival: Segovia-Guiomar Station, 6 km from the historic centre. Take a local bus or taxi to the centre (around 15 minutes).
by Bus
- Departure: Moncloa Station
- Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Average price: €5
- Arrival: Segovia bus station, located in the city centre. It’s location is better to arrive in the city center by foot.
What to see in Segovia
- Aqueduct: Roman structure nearly two thousand years old and the city’s most iconic landmark
- Alcázar: Cliffside castle said to have inspired the Disney castle
- Cathedral: Known as the “Lady of Cathedrals”, an example of late Gothic architecture
- Plaza Mayor: The central square of the city
- Church of San Millán: One of the oldest examples of Romanesque architecture in Segovia
- Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos: Viewpoint overlooking the Alcázar and surrounding valley
- Casa de los Picos: Renaissance building with a distinctive façade of pointed stone blocks
- …and much more. Segovia surprises you at every turn.
Tips
Segovia’s two most traditional dishes are cochinillo (roast suckling pig) and roast lamb, both prepared in a wood-fired oven. International visitors often prefer cochinillo for its crispy skin, which makes all the difference in the dish.
The two most famous restaurants in Segovia are Mesón de Cándido and Restaurante José María, both specialising in lamb and cochinillo. Interestingly, there is a kind of “culinary rivalry” between the two. Mesón de Cándido, founded in 1905, is known for the tradition of cutting the cochinillo with a plate. José María, which opened in 1982, gained a reputation by creating its own farm to control the quality of the meat. Locals are divided: some prefer the history and show at Cándido, while others swear by the flavour and consistency at José María. In Segovia, it’s almost like choosing between two football teams — but the truth is that both restaurants are excellent and well worth visiting.
Avila
Avila is famous for its medieval walls, considered the best preserved in Europe, and for its connection to Saint Teresa of Avila, one of Spain’s most important religious figures. The city has a compact historic centre filled with churches, convents and medieval architecture, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
How to get there
by Train
- Departure: Madrid-Príncipe Pio
- Travel time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Average price: €10–€15
- Arrival: Avila train station, located 15 minutes on foot from the historic centre
by Bus
- Departure: Estación Sur, Moncloa and Madrid Airport
- Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Average price: €10–€16
- Arrival: Avila bus station, close to the historic centre
What to see in Avila
- Avila city walls: Surround the historic centre with well-preserved towers and gates
- Avila Cathedral: The first Gothic cathedral built in Spain, integrated into the city walls
- Convent of Saint Teresa: Built on the site where the saint was born
- Basilica of San Vicente: A gem of Romanesque architecture
- Cuatro Postes viewpoint: Panoramic viewpoint overlooking the walls and the city
- Plaza del Mercado Chico: Central square surrounded by historic buildings and cafés
Tips
We have a super detailed post about Avila. If you’re thinking of visiting, we definitely recommend checking it out.
El Escorial
El Escorial is known for its monastery, which also served as a royal residence, burial site for Spanish monarchs and a library. Built in the 16th century at the request of King Philip II, the building is a symbol of Renaissance architecture and the centralisation of power in Spain. Its location at the foot of the Guadarrama Mountains also offers stunning natural scenery.
How to get there
by Train (Cercanías)
- Departure: Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor or Atocha stations
- Line: C2 or C8
- Travel time: Around 1 hour
- Average price: €4.05
- Arrival: El Escorial station, 15 minutes on foot from the monastery
- Buy ticket: At station ticket machines or ticket counters
by Bus
- Departure: Moncloa Interchange
- Line: 661 or 664
- Travel time: 50 minutes
- Average price: €5
- Arrival: Bus station, a short walk from the monastery
- Buy ticket: Directly from the driver or at the station ticket counter (Alsa)
What to see in San Lorenzo del Escorial
- Monastery of El Escorial: Renaissance building featuring the Royal Pantheon, the Basilica and the Library
- Casita del Infante: Small palace once used as a retreat by the royal family, surrounded by gardens
- Casita del Príncipe: Another royal residence, with luxurious interiors and neoclassical architecture
- Gardens of El Escorial: Well-kept outdoor areas, ideal for enjoying the views of the Guadarrama Mountains
- Mirador de Abantos: A nearby viewpoint offering panoramic views of the monastery and surrounding region, ideal for those interested in hiking
Tips
If you enjoy hiking, I recommend going early in the morning. The area is quite mountainous and the trail to the Abantos peak is steep, but definitely worth it!
Aranjuez
Aranjuez is famous for its Royal Palace and gardens, which served as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city attracts visitors with the beauty of its gardens, the palace’s architecture and its location along the banks of the River Tagus.
How to get there
by Train (Cercanías)
- Departure: Atocha Station
- Line: C3
- Travel time: Around 45 minutes
- Average price: €4.05
- Arrival: Aranjuez Station, 10 minutes on foot from the historic centre
- Buy ticket: At station ticket machines or ticket counters
by Bus
- Departure: Madrid-Sur bus station
- Line: 423
- Travel time: 50 minutes
- Average price: €4
- Arrival: Bus station in the centre of Aranjuez
- Buy ticket: Directly from the driver or at the station ticket counter (La Veloz)
What to see in Aranjuez
- Royal Palace of Aranjuez: Former summer residence of the Spanish royal family, featuring luxurious interiors and adjacent gardens
- Jardín del Príncipe: The largest garden in Aranjuez, with fountains, pavilions and rich vegetation
- Casa del Labrador: Small palace built as a royal retreat, known for its refined architecture
- Royal Barge Museum: Exhibition of ceremonial boats used by the royal family on the River Tagus
- Jardín de la Isla: Renaissance garden surrounded by the River Tagus, ideal for peaceful walks
Tips
We had excellent tapas experiences in Aranjuez! We recommend exploring restaurants and bars in the city centre, away from the more touristy areas. In particular, we suggest trying Casa Pablete.
Madrid is surrounded by cities that perfectly complement a visit to the capital. With good train and bus connections, you can explore places like Toledo, Segovia, Avila, El Escorial and Aranjuez on easy day trips. Each destination offers something unique, from medieval walls and royal palaces to historic monuments and striking landscapes. These locations reveal different aspects of Spain’s history and culture, and are ideal for travellers looking to explore the region in a practical and accessible way, without needing a car.