best day trips from madrid by train

9 Easy Day Trips from Madrid (by Train)

Madrid is a cool city. We think it’s one of the best cities in Spain to visit, and we’ve even got an action-packed 3-day itinerary for it. But if you have 4-5 days to spend in the area, it’s a great idea to base yourself in the city center and take a few day trips from Madrid by train.

We’ve taken some of these day trips ourselves, but we wanted to provide you with a Madrid day trip list that had a lot of variety in terms of architecture, art, history and culture. So, we’ve teamed up with a few of our travel blogger buddies to round out the list.

What follows are nine amazing day trips that are easily done by train. Some of these cities are as close as 30 minutes away and none are further than two hours. So, if you are willing to get an early start, you can have a ton of time to spend out in Spain’s historic countryside.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

How To Navigate the Spanish Rail Network

Each of the Madrid day trips below has logistical information about which train station and service to use, assuming that you are staying in Central Madrid. But buying the right ticket from Renfe can be confusing because there are several different train networks that serve these outer cities, and they are each called something different.

So, here’s a quick primer on which lines serve these train-based day trips from Madrid.

Madrid has two major train stations (Chamartín and Atocha) which serve all distances. Atocha is in central Madrid and a fairly easy walk or bus ride from most tourist hotels. It’s actually two stations in one, with the faster AVE and Avant trains using one area, and the local Cercanías trains using another. So, pay attention to signage.

Chamartín is north of the city center and can be reached by the metro or the C4/C3 Cercanías trains.

The city is also served by a network of commuter and Intercity trains, with the Sol, Principe Pio and Recoletos stations being the most relevant for the day trips below.

AVE trains : These are very fast, long distance connections between major cities, such as Madrid and Valencia or Zaragoza (on the list below). These trains have assigned seating.

Alvia trains : These are fast (but not as fast as AVE) trains that have long-range service to even more cities. These trains have assigned seating.

Avant trains : These are fast trains that run a medium distance, such as between Madrid and Toledo or Segovia (also below). These trains have assigned seating.

Intercity trains : These are slower, traditional trains that run medium to long distances, such as between Madrid and Ávila. They are sometimes labeled “MD” on Renfe.

Cercanías trains : This is a network of slower, commuter trains that run to a number of smaller suburban stations, as well as Atocha and Chamartín. They serve destinations like El Escorial and Alcalá de Henares. These trains have open seating.

The faster the train, the more expensive the ticket. For the fast trains, you can often save money by booking in advance. For the slower trains or the Cercanías, you can just show up and buy a ticket on the fly.

Top 9 Day Trips from Madrid by Train

With those logistics out of the way, let’s get to those day trips. All of these have been chosen because they offer a cool mix of Spanish heritage and culture AND they are two hours or less by train. And for those that are just a :30 train ride, you can even do them as a 1/2 day trip or combine two together.

The trips are listed top to bottom from the shortest train ride to the longest.

Segovia Day Trip

Recommended by Emily of Wander-Lush

Just 30 minutes from the capital by high-speed train, Segovia is an easy Madrid day trip for history buffs and architecture aficionados.

Segovia is synonymous with three things: its Roman aqueduct, its castle, and its medieval cathedral. This trio of landmarks all lie within walking distance of each other in the upper part of the city.

The Aqueduct of Segovia, with its 167 soaring brick arches, dominates the old town and historic Jewish Quarter. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it was built around 50 BC and is a magnificent feat of engineering. Climb the stairs to view the aqueduct from above, or find a table at one of the cafes in the Plaza del Azoguejo for an early lunch with the aqueduct as your backdrop. Cordero asado roasted lamb is a popular local dish and appears on most restaurant menus.

The Catedral de Segovia was consecrated in 1768 and is one of the last Gothic-style cathedrals to be built in Europe. The interior boasts stunning stained glass and frescoes. Upgrade to a tower tour to climb to the highest point of the cathedral for a panoramic city view.

Your final stop is the Alcázar de Segovia, which famously inspired Walt Disney’s designs for the castle in Cinderella . A former royal palace for the kings of Castile, it dates to at least 1122 and combines Gothic, Romanesque and Mudejar influences. After walking the grounds and soaking up yet more beautiful views of Castile and León’s plains, pop inside for a look at the ornate rooms and the artillery museum.

Train logistics : Served by the Avant (cheaper) and Alvia lines multiple times per hour from Chamartín station. The ride takes ~28 minutes.

Toledo Day Trip

There’s a lot to do in Toledo and you could easily keep yourself busy by spending the night there. But it’s possible to cover the top sites of this interesting town as a Madrid day trip.

The town was founded by the Romans because its geography gave them a hilly bird’s eye view (for defense) and the local Tagus river (for drinking water). Spain’s history often has a linear timeline that included the Moors living in Spain, then the Jews, then the Spaniards.

But Toledo is unique in that they all lived there at the same time…and fairly peaceably. You can learn more about that on a free walking tour . Then spend the rest of the day visiting the Santa Iglesia cathedral, the Santa Maria synagogue, the Alcazar fortress and military museum, the Mezquita Cristo de la Luz (which is a former mosque) and the El Greco museum.

Train Logistics : Take Avant train from Atocha. The ride takes only 35 minutes. You can walk or take a €5 cab ride into the old town. BUT– spend an extra €5 and have the cab driver take you the long way into town via the overlook on the south side of town. It has great views of the town and river and is a picturesque cheapie tour.

Alcalá de Henares Day Trip

Recommended by Or of My Path in the World 

With a UNESCO-listed historic center and university, Roman ruins, and points of interest connected to one of the most iconic novelists in history, the city of Alcalá de Henares is a must-take day trip from Madrid by train.

This overlooked city is the birthplace of the infamous author of Don Quixote, Miguel de Cervantes, which means you can visit the house where he was born and raised. The main square is also named after him – Plaza de Cervantes – and is probably one of the most beautiful squares in all of Spain.

Next, marvel at the facade of Alcalá’s university, one of the oldest in the world, and head to Calle Mayor, which was the main street of the Jewish quarter and one of the most important business streets in the city.

Other  things to do in Alcalá de Henares  include visiting the archeological sites of the House of Hippolytus and the Roman City of Complutum, touring the 19th-century Neo-Mudejar Laredo Palace, visiting the Regional Archaeological Museum, and admiring the 13th-century Archbishop’s Palace.

Train Logistics : Take the Cercanías C2/C7 from the Atocha or Recoleta stations. The trains run every 10-15 minutes and the ride will take ~:45, dropping you into the center of the city.

Cuenca Day Trip

These day trips are positively stuffed with UNESCO World Heritage sites and Cuenca is no exception. The city (literally) hangs over the Río Huécar river gorge. The hanging houses, or casas colgadas, are one of the main attractions in town. You can get some Instagrammable views of them by crossing the river on the San Pablo bridge.

You can get yet more views by walking the 3.4 mile (5/k) Recreo Peral trail or part of the Travesía del Sistema trail, which goes through Cuenca’s well-preserved old town.

In addition to the old town, Cuenca also has the very cool Spanish Abstract Art Museum, which is quite a palette cleanser from all of the UNESCO heritage.

Train Logistics : Take the AVE from Atocha. Trains leave roughly every hour and take 55 minutes. From the station, it’s a :20 walk or bus ride to the cathedral.

El Escorial Day Trip

El Escorial was once the summer palace for Spanish royalty. The complex is a nesting doll of history which includes a Renaissance palace inside of a cathedral inside of monastery– with a stunning library to boot!

The architecture has classical Renaissance elements and the interior is positively stuffed with treasures such as a lovely cloister, frescoes, classical Spanish paintings (from artists like Goya), ceiling murals, masterful inlaid wood doors, a marble-carved mausoleum and formal gardens. And the library is such eye-candy that it made our list of the most beautiful libraries in the world .

The Parque de Casita Principe is a lovely oasis and you can tour the casita. After you are finished with your self-guided El Escorial tour, you can head just a block north into the main part of town for lunch on the main plaza.

Train Logistics : Take the Cercanías C3 line from Atocha, Puerto Sol or Chamartín stations. The ride takes about an hour. Take the nice 20 minute walk west through the Parque de Casita Principe to get to the main site.

Zaragoza Day Trip

Recommended by Roxanne of Far Away World.

Once an independent kingdom, Spain’s fifth-largest city,  Zaragoza , makes an excellent day trip from Madrid by train because of the smooth, fast ride on the AVE train.

Despite not seeing as many visitors as Valencia, Malaga or Seville, there’s a huge amount to see in Zaragoza. The jewel of the city is the Cathedral-Basilica of the Lady of the Pillar, currently a Baroque building which, according to legend, was built by the Apostle James after seeing a vision of the Virgin Mary. Other attractions worth seeing include the Roman Forum and city walls, the stunning Moorish Aljafería Palace, and the Mudejar-style churches.

Zaragoza’s Old Town is a pleasure to wander through, the architectural styles reflecting the city’s 2,000-year-old history, and there are a number of bars and cafes to choose from if you want to stop for food or a drink.

Train Logistics : Take the AVE train from Atocha, which leaves once per hour. The train stops at the main station, which is a reasonable distance from the historical center, however there are frequent and convenient buses connecting the two.

Ávila Day Trip

Recommended by Becki of Meet Me In Departures.

The gorgeous city of Ávila is one of the best preserved Medieval cities in Europe. It has UNESCO world heritage status and is famous for its immaculately preserved city walls. Parts of the wall date back to the 11th century.

The main thing to do here is the wall walk, of course. This can be done as a guided tour, or with an audio guide. The route around Ávila city walls is about 2.5km long. There are plenty of steps going up and down from some of the 82 towers and nine gates dotted along the route. You can’t do the entire circuit in one go, it’s divided into two separate sections.

Other highlights are the fifteenth-century Santo Tomás Royal Monastery and Ávila Cathedral, which is the oldest Spanish Gothic cathedral. If you’re  visiting in winter , then you’ll find pop-up traditional Spanish Christmas market stalls along the main square.

Ávila an easy day trip from Madrid by train, and although you could spend an entire day there, you can also combine it with the trip to Segovia, connecting the two with a :45 bus ride.

Train logistics : Served by an Intercity MD train about once an hour from Principe Pio. The ride takes ~1.5 hours. From there, it’s about a 10-minute, well-signposted walk to the town center, depending on how often you stop to take photos. 

Valencia Day Trip

Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe

Valencia is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that harmoniously combines two thousand years of history with the most innovative and avant-garde buildings. Among the  best things to do in Valencia  is taking a stroll through the Old Town, one of the largest historic centers in Europe, to discover a rich artistic heritage. Visit the imposing Gothic cathedral and its famous Miguelete bell tower, the Plaza de la Virgen, the Town Hall, and the Post Office, the Silk Exchange (a Gothic building declared a UNESCO Heritage Site), and the Central Market. In the afternoon, get a cab to the City of Arts and Sciences, to see the most avant-garde buildings, including the Reina Sofía opera, the Príncipe Felipe science museum, and l’Umbracle, a huge green area covered by floating arches. L’Hemisfèric, an impressive 3D IMAX projection room in the shape of a human eye. And if that’s not enough for you, the Oceanographic, the largest marine complex in Europe, is also here.

And don’t forget to try the Valencian paella, the world famous Spanish dish, in one of the local restaurants.

Train Logistics : Served by an AVE train from Atocha. The ride takes ~1:45 minutes. Valencia’s Sorolla station is centrally located and you can take the bus or an easy walk to the city center.

Córdoba Day Trip

Recommended by Paula of Spain Travel Hub

With 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites calling Córdoba home, the <2 hour train ride from Madrid is very much worthwhile. The city has a diverse cultural heritage; it was once conquered by Romans, Visigoths, and Muslims and as a result is home to some of the most outstanding architecture in Spain.

On a day trip to  Cordoba , you will be best to focus just on the old town, which is itself one of the listed sites.

Start your visit with the star of the show, the Mezquita or Grand Mosque. Built in 786 by Abd Al-Rahman, it combines Roman and Byzantine styles with traditional Arabic decoration and is one of the most significant religious buildings in all of Europe.

Next up, pop into Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Medieval Alcazar is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the Mezquita. The Alcazar has been everything from a royal residence to an Inquisition prison. Climbing to the top of the towers offers a rather breathtaking view.

To experience the next site, the Cordoba Patio Festival, you will need to visit in the first two weeks of May. At this time of year, hundreds of stunning gardens in the city are open to the public. If you visit at other times of year, take a walk along Calleja de Las Flores, one of the most famous streets. You might even like to squeeze in a visit to the Patio Museum – Palacio de Viana on your way back to the station.

The final UNESCO site is the Medina Azahara. If you want to visit this site on your day trip, you will need to take a tour or a taxi as it’s not within walking distance of the old town but on the western outskirts of town.

Finally, while not a UNESCO site, a quick walk over the Roman Bridge provides a lovely view, especially appreciated by photographers looking to capture a shot that sums up the city.

Train Logistics : Served by an AVE train twice hourly from Atocha. The ride takes just under two hours with a :20 walk or €6 cab ride to the main sites.

More Spanish Travel Inspiration

Here are some additional ideas to help you round out a Spanish itinerery.

• Niche your trip down by diving into some of these interesting Spanish guide books .
• Head south and explore the ancient (and beachy) city of Cádiz , which you can do as a day trip from Seville .
• Do some armchair travel with this list of books set in Spain , which includes non-fiction and fiction across genres.
• Explore northern Spain with these things to do in Burgos .
• If you’ve heard of the Camino de Santiago and are interested in doing it, check out our first timers guide or our inspiration for doing the Camino solo .

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10 Best Day Trips From Madrid by Train to Take in 2024

After a couple of days exploring Spain’s beautiful capital city, you might look for the best day trips from Madrid by train to expand your Spain itinerary .

I don’t think any city is better situated for exploring Spain’s hidden gems than Madrid.

Smack bang in the center of the country, it’s the perfect day trip hub; you can truly uncover some of the prettiest and most charming towns and cities near Madrid by train. 

What’s more, Madrid is well serviced by a range of comprehensive rail services, so reaching other regions of the country honestly couldn’t be easier.

If you’re looking to travel to Spain and want a way to get off the beaten track without needing to hire a car, then you really can’t go wrong with taking the train.

As one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers , Madrid is a fabulous base for exploring some of the most beautiful cities in Spain as well as enchanting Medieval towns and historical sites.

Read on to uncover some of my absolute favorite day trips from Madrid by train so that you can travel sustainably while experiencing some absolute gems.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Table of Contents

Navigating the Spanish Rail Network

Spain is home to a pretty diverse selection of rail services – nationwide, you’ve got the Renfe network, which is the Spanish national operator.

Renfe is in charge not only of the high-speed AVE trains that crisscross the country but also of a number of local routes. 

Beyond that, you’ll find smaller companies in charge of suburban or intercity services. And, beyond that, Renfe does have a handful of competitors that operate their own high-speed trains between Spain’s cities, which does wonders for keeping prices low. 

I’d pretty much always suggest that you purchase your tickets for train travel in Spain in advance wherever possible.

This is actually a requirement for almost all long-distance rail services in the country, and some short-distance ones, too; additionally, trains on some of the more popular routes can and do sell out during peak periods. 

Besides, booking your tickets in advance will generally see them costing a fraction as much of what they would if you’d picked them up on the day – I think that’s as good a reason as any! 

Some discounts are available in Spain for train travelers; children under 4 travel free, for instance, while child fares exist for anyone under 14.

The Tarjeta Dorada, for seniors, grants users a 25% discount on all train tickets. Major operators in Spain also sell rail passes, which can make for a good way to save some money if you’ll be using the country’s train network extensively during your trip.

👉 CHECK TRAIN PRICES HERE

Best Time to Take Train Trips from Madrid

I’d argue that one of the advantages of train travel in Spain is that it’s a robust means of getting from point A to B that is impacted minimally by factors like the weather and season.

Most of the high-speed, intercity trains in Spain are air-conditioned, for example, so you won’t need to worry about getting too hot riding them in the summer. 

With that being said, train ticket prices will be higher the greater the demand for them is – if you’re planning your holiday on a bit of a shoestring, you may want to visit Madrid in winter or fall.

However, spring and summer are when Spain really comes alive, so you’ll find that there’s more to do at this time of year, both in Madrid and wherever you might want to visit on a day trip from the city. 

In this vein, if you’re trying to figure out when the best time to visit Madrid might be for some train day trips, I’d argue that things like the weather and the seasons need not play too major a role – provided that you know what to expect.

Best Day Trips from Madrid by Train

Toledo is one of the oldest and most historic cities in all of Spain, making it one of the best Madrid day trips by train.

It’s got a reputation for its stunning medieval architecture, Jewish roots, and its charming, walled old town.

The fortress of the Alcázar de Toledo is an absolute must-see; the same goes for the austere, imposing Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes and the Catedral Primada Santa María de Toledo. 

If you hadn’t guessed it already, this ancient city is an incredible place to sample some of the highlights of Spain’s spiritual landmarks and religious architecture.

I can also heartily recommend checking out Museo del Greco on a day trip to Toledo Spain . The Greek artist spent many of his years painting in Toledo.

Something else that I loved about Toledo was how easy it was to get there by train from Madrid. With regular departures throughout the day from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha and a journey time of a little over 30 minutes, it really doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

And while marzipan is typical during Christmas in Spain , Toledo is famous for it all year round!

Another top choice is a day trip to Segovia from Madrid . Even in a country as ruggedly historic as Spain, Segovia stands out as being a bonafide architectural wonderland in my mind. With one day in Segovia , you can see quite a lot of what the city has to offer.

Among the best things to do in Segovia are to visit not only the city’s aqueduct, which was built all the way back in the Roman era but also the jaw-dropping design of the gothic Segovia Cathedral and the dreamy Alcázar castle.

Both beggar belief (with the latter somewhat resembling Carcassonne in the south of France). 

Combine these incredible sights with some other iconic landmarks, like the Plaza Mayor and the palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso, and you’ve got an absolutely winning day trip by train from Madrid.

Getting there by rail couldn’t be easier, either; you can hop on at Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor and disembark at Segovia Guimoar.

Tickets are very affordable and the journey usually takes less than half an hour – I really can’t think of a more accessible option for a day trip from Madrid than that!

Stunning Valencia is a global favorite, and for good reason, it hits most travelers’ Spain bucket list . It’s by far one of my favorite coastal cities in Spain and there are so many reasons to visit Valencia .

Despite being one of the country’s largest cities, Valencia still manages to retain a relaxed, down-to-earth feel; in more recent years, it’s been attracting plenty of attention thanks to the way it marries its gorgeous old town district with its groundbreaking City of Arts and Sciences museum. 

I think Valencia is one of Spain’s most exciting, dynamic cities; something that’s all the more impressive when you consider the atmosphere of the place.

With one day in Valencia , I can thoroughly recommend that you check out the city’s central market (Mercado Central de Valencia), Valencia Cathedral, and the gothic La Lonja de la Seda as some of the best things to do in Valencia .

You could also join one of the many bike tours in Valencia to get around easily and learn more about the city. Whether you travel to Valencia in winter or summer, you’ll be surprised by how much this city has to offer.

If you’ll be traveling to Valencia from Madrid via train, then you can expect your journey to take around two hours. There are regular departures from Madrid’s Chamartín station, as well as Puerta de Atocha.

BEST ACTIVITIES IN VALENCIA

• Valencia: Palosanto Flamenco Show Ticket
• Valencia: City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
• Valencia: Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas in an 11th c. Monument
• Valencia: 24 or 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
• Valencia: Oceanografic, Hemisferic, and Science Museum Combo
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Straddling the sleepy river Ebro, Zaragoza is probably most famous for its basilica, the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, as well as the myriad of architectural styles and schools represented in the many historic buildings dotted around the city.

The basilica is absolutely stunning – I think it just might be one of the most impressive religious buildings in the whole country – and the way the river frames its façade makes for a fantastic photo opportunity. 

Some of the most impressive landmarks in Zaragoza include the Palace of Aljafería, as well as the Plaza del Pílar, and the sprawling park of José Antonio Labordeta.

I love this city’s distinctly Spanish skyline, and I urge you to pay it a visit if you’re in any way an architecture enthusiast. It’s by far one of the best train trips from Madrid you can take in a day.

Direct trains depart fairly regularly from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha to Zaragoza, and the journey typically takes around an hour and 15 minutes.

Colorful Córdoba and its world-famous Mosque-Cathedral are on plenty of bucket lists, and I hardly think it’s much of a surprise.

This gorgeous city is probably one of the best places in the world to see authentic, old-world Moorish architecture; of course, the Mosque-Cathedral, or Mezquita-Catedral, has, over its long lifespan, served as one of the major seats of both Islam and Christianity for people living across Spain and beyond. 

If you pay a visit to this incredible Andalusian city, I encourage you to check out the Alcazar and Roman Bridge, too, which are perfectly possible with only one day in Córdoba .

Córdoba is also a veritable mecca for archaeology enthusiasts (does that go without saying?) – the Archaeology Museum, Palacio de Viana, ruined Roman Temple, and Plaza de la Corredera are all also must-sees.

Finally, make sure you book a tour to see the magnificent Patios of Cordoba . If you happen to be there at the beginning of May, you will be able to see them all for free as the locals open their private patios to the public.

Thanks to Spain’s fantastic network of high-speed trains, reaching Córdoba from Madrid really couldn’t be easier.

Departures run from Puerta de Atocha reasonably frequently, and you can expect the journey itself to take roughly two hours one way.

El Escorial

The fact that more people don’t know about El Escorial always blows my mind and I highly recommend it as one of the top day trips from Madrid by train.

Almost a city unto itself, this ginormous building, found just outside Madrid’s city limits, is the world’s largest Renaissance structure; it’s essentially a monastery, hunting lodge, basilica, library, museum, pantheon, royal palace, school, hospital, and university, all rolled into one. 

These are all split into two separate buildings; the old monastery and the palace complex. Some of the attractions in the monastery offer free entry, but I recommend paying the full price of admission so that you can see and do as much as possible during your visit.

The guided tour is also a fantastic way to learn the rich and, at times, unbelievable history of this very unique building. 

Trains departing from Madrid will get you to El Escorial in a little under an hour, leaving primarily from Chamartín station. 

The mysterious mountain city of Cuenca has been beguiling and enthralling visitors for centuries. I love the way its perfectly preserved medieval walls enclose the historic old town; the way Cuenca hangs precariously over the cliffs below it makes for a pretty impressive photo op, too, if you dare!

Nowhere in the city better illustrates this than the houses of Casas Colgadas, whose residents must be pretty brave indeed.

Other things to do in Cuenca include the stunning cathedral, as well as a number of excellent museums, like the Paleontology Museum and the Museum of Science.

The city is also home to a number of beautiful parks, which make for a lovely place for a stroll, no matter the weather!

Getting from Madrid to Cuenca is simple by train. Between the stations of Chamartín and Puerta de Atocha, there are typically departures every half hour or so, and the journey usually takes around an hour.

Alcalá de Henares

You hardly need to be a literature buff to have heard of Don Quixote (unless you were born under a rock!) and Alcalá de Henares is the birthplace of said legendary book’s just as legendary author, Miguel de Cervantes. 

But that’s far from being all the city has going for itself. In fact, its whole historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; not too shabby, if you ask me!

While there is, naturally, a museum that’s been converted out of Cervantes’ old place of birth, some other sites I think are definitely worth a visit in this cool little city include Laredo Palace, the Corral de Comedias theatre, the Regional Archaeological Museum of Madrid, and the various convents and churches that call Alcalá de Henares home. 

To reach Alcalá de Henares via train, you can depart from Puerta de Atocha. The journey takes just over 40 minutes.

Aranjuez is best known as the home of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, which is probably one of the most eye-catching and distinctive in the whole of Spain.

You can almost think of the place as a Spanish Versailles; the palatial (both literally and figuratively) complex features expansive gardens, as well as the Renaissance-style palace itself, which honestly needs to be seen to be believed. 

While most of the landmarks and sights worth seeing in the area are found within the palace grounds, the town of Aranjuez is quaint and picturesque; it’s somewhere I enjoy coming for a stroll on a balmy afternoon, for example. 

Traveling from Madrid to Aranjuez by train is a pretty straightforward affair, too, taking about 45 minutes from Puerta de Atocha.

You’ll usually find that there are departures every 20 to 30 minutes or so, ensuring that you have plenty of flexibility to plan your trip however you like.

Valladolid really has my heart; not only is it famous for its incredible array of pristinely preserved medieval buildings, but it’s also home to one of my favorite parks in all of Spain, the atmospheric and tastefully decorated Parque Campo Grande. 

The expansive public square of Plaza Mayor de Valladolid makes an impression on pretty much every visitor to this charming city.

Other than that, I suggest that you check out the local cathedral, as well as the Museum of Casa de Cervantes and the Palace of Santa Cruz. 

Slightly further afield than some of the day trips on this list, Valladolid takes a little over an hour to reach from Madrid via train.

With departures typically every half hour or so from Chamartín station, you’ll generally have a decent amount of flexibility as far as when you leave and arrive.

Tips for Planning Your Day Trip

Before you set out on your day trip or day trips from Madrid by train, you’ll naturally want to make sure that you’re well prepared. Consider the weather and the kinds of activities you’ll be doing in advance; do you need a good pair of hiking shoes, for instance, or a raincoat? 

When working out which trip or trips you want to make, you should probably consider how many days in Madrid your holiday is going to include. Will heading out on multiple-day trips give you enough time to really get to know Madrid itself?

And, finally, while it probably sounds obvious, navigation apps like Google Maps are absolutely invaluable when you’re exploring a new place and trying not to get lost – especially if you’ve got a return train to catch later that day.

Final thoughts on Madrid day trips by train

As you can tell, there are so many amazing day trips by train from Madrid that you can take. It truly is one of the best hubs for day trips in the country considering the great rail connection of the city.

I’m sure you found some cool day trips from Madrid by train to explore in this list, they are truly epic destinations all of them.

Happy travels!

12 Magnificent Day Trips from Madrid by Train

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

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Planning a trip to Madrid, Spain and are thinking about side trips? Keep scrolling for my list of the best day trips from Madrid by train worth adding to your Spain itinerary!

This list of day trips from madrid by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to the Spanish capital but want to enjoy adventures in other parts of the country too?

You can and you should, by taking day trips from Madrid by train! It’s almost always the quickest, cheapest, and least stressful way of traveling on day trips.

Madrid is a lively, sprawling city with lots of things to do but if you venture a few miles out, you’ll discover the land of Don Quixote with windmills dotted along hillsides and sweeping sierras. There are historic UNESCO sites and other cool Spanish cities that are an easy day trip from Madrid.

Since the capital is perfectly centered in the middle of the country, you have lots of options. Whether you want to hike up to a hilltop castle or a more compact city then there are lots of places to visit near Madrid by train.

This guide will give you lots of ideas and will help you plan lots of super fun side trips from Madrid!

Day Trips from Madrid to Toledo

As the former capital of Spain, taking Toledo day trips from Madrid allows you to experience both the old and new Spain.

The City of Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the medieval Arab, Jewish, and Christian monuments you’ll find inside the Old Town. 

It’s the main city in the Castilla-La Mancha region and there is an endless list of castles, churches, and other historic structures to explore.

How To Get From Madrid to Toledo by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , take a direct Renfe AVANT service to Estación de tren Toledo which takes around 30 minutes. There are around 13 trains per day that travel on this route and tickets start from €13.90 so choosing a Toledo day trip from Madrid is fast, easy, and budget-friendly!

Renfe is Spain’s national rail company and AVANT is one type of high-speed train. Others are AVE, EUROMED, and MD and there’s no real difference between them.

On high-speed services, the carriage classes are Básica (2nd class) and Prémium (1st class). Sometimes, they have ‘Elige’ tickets which allow you to choose some of the perks of 1st class, but not all.

Madrid to Aranjuez Day Trips

Want more options for quick day trips from Madrid to UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Yes, there’s more than one! 

Aranjuez’s Royal Palace is an impressive, French-influenced Renaissance building so it really stands out against other important buildings in Spain. The palace’s ornamental gardens along the River Tagus are also well worth exploring.

How To Get From Madrid to Aranjuez by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , get a direct Renfe Cercanías C3 service to Estación de tren Aranjuez which takes around 45 minutes. There are around eight services on this route every day and tickets start from €5.40.

Cercanías services are commuter trains which means you cannot book them in advance or reserve seats. You just buy them at the station before you travel and they are often cheaper than other services.

Day Trips from Madrid to Valencia

Valencia is one of Spain’s largest cities and well worth visiting on its own trip. However, you can also take day trips from Madrid to Valencia too because it’s one of the easiest-to-reach big cities near Madrid by train.

Valencia is a port city on Spain’s east coast and the birthplace of paella, one of the most famous Spanish dishes. It’s famous for lots of unusual art and science museums as well as its beautiful Old Town.

How To Get From Madrid to Valencia by Train

Trains to Valencia depart both Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor and Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , but most leave from the former. 

From both stations, you can hop on direct Renfe high-speed AVE services to Valencia Joaquín Sorolla which take two hours or slightly less. There are approximately 19 trains that travel this route every day and ticket start from as little as €10.

Madrid to Ávila Day Trips

Ávila is the capital of a province by the same name and is northwest of Madrid. It has an unusual claim to fame which is that it’s the highest provincial capital in Spain, resting at more than 3700 feet/1132 meters above sea level. So, you know it has some amazing hilltop castles and fortresses!

In fact, its medieval city walls along with the watchtowers and gates are miraculously still intact. If you’re looking for cool but off-the-beaten-path day trips from Madrid by train, Ávila is perfect.

How To Get From Madrid to Avila by Train

From Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor , take a direct Renfe regional service to Ávila station which will take around two hours. There are around seven services every day and tickets start from €9.25.

Day Trips from Madrid to Barcelona

Barcelona is ideal if you’re looking for weekend trips from Madrid because there is no way you will be able to see Barcelona’s highlights on a day trip. However, if a day is what you have to spare, then one day in the Catalan capital is far better than nothing!

You’ll have just enough time to witness the famously unfinished cathedral, La Sagrada Familia , and stroll along Barceloneta beach.

How To Get From Madrid to Barcelona by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , get a direct Renfe AVE or AVLO high-speed service to Barcelona-Sants station. Depending on which service you book, this journey takes anywhere from two hours and 30 minutes to over three hours.

Book in advance to snag seat reservations on an early, fast train! There are around 21 services per day on this route and tickets start from as little as €7.

Madrid to Cuenca Day Trips

Located southeast of the Spanish capital, Cuenca is one of the best day trips from Madrid by train that you can take. It’s a hilltop town founded by the Moors with narrow cobblestone lanes, ancient ruins, and historic city walls.

But the pièce de résistance of Cuenca is the Huécar gorge, a deep ravine surrounding the town on its limestone perch. The ‘hanging houses’ of Cuenca look like they are sitting on the very edge of the town as if they are about to jump off and have to be seen to be believed.

How To Get From Madrid to Cuenca by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , hop on a direct Renfe AVE or AVLO high-speed service to Estación de Cuenca-Fernando Zóbel . These trains take around an hour and depart approximately once per hour. Ticket prices start from €6.90.

Day Trips from Madrid to Segovia

Segovia day trips from Madrid are super popular thanks to the diverse architecture in its skyline. It’s a major city in the Castile and León region with a Roman aqueduct, Gothic cathedral , Romanesque churches, and medieval city walls.

You won’t have a spare moment to feel bored when taking day trips to Segovia from Madrid!

How To Get From Madrid to Segovia by Train

From Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor , take a direct Renfe AVANT or ALVIA service to Segovia Guiomar station which both take around an hour. 

Avoid the regional services which take twice as long! They’re usually cheaper but it’s worth spending more to get more time to explore Segovia.

There is roughly one train on this route per hour and ticket prices for the high-speed trains start at €13. Segovia’s train station is a 10-minute bus ride outside of the historic center (take the 12 bus from the station) or a short taxi ride.

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Madrid to leon day trips.

If you don’t have a month free to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route across Spain, you can still visit one of the cities on the path on train trips from Madrid.

Leon sits on the Bernesga River north of Madrid and is home to many churches and Cathedrals with beautiful frescoes. 

How To Get From Madrid to Leon by Train

From Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor , get on a direct Renfe AVE or ALVIA high-speed service to León station. These trains take just over two hours and there are around eight services a day. Ticket prices start from €7.35.

Day Trips from Madrid to Cordoba

The historic center of Cordoba also appears on UNESCO’s list not once, twice, or even three times. Yes, Cordoba is the only city in the world that can boast that achievement.

If you’re looking for incredible day trips near Madrid then this city in the southern region of Andalusia should be one of them. There are several fun things to do in Cordoba .

You should have just enough time to explore the Mosque of Córdoba , the historical quarter surrounding it, the Festival of the Patios, and Medina Azahara before catching the train back.

How To Get From Madrid to Cordoba by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , hop on a direct Renfe AVE service to Córdoba station which takes less than two hours. There are roughly 30 services every day and tickets start from €14.

Madrid to Zaragoza Day Trips

Zaragoza is the capital city of Spain’s Aragorn region and is one of the best day trips from Madrid that you can take.

Spraddling the River Ebro, among the top things to do in Zaragoza include the Nuestra Señora del Pilar Basilica, the Moorish Palace, and the Cathedral.

Most of these impressive structures date back to medieval times. Zaragoza’s blend of Islamic and Gothic architecture makes this city so unique and picturesque.

How To Get From Madrid to Zaragoza by Train

From Estación Madrid – Puerta de Atocha , take a direct Renfe AVE service to Zaragoza-Delicias station. These journeys take one hour and 15 minutes and they depart every hour. Tickets start from €7.

Day Trips from Madrid to Valladolid

Home to the Spanish Kings in the early 1600s and where Christopher Columbus died in the 1500s, Valladolid has a lot to offer if you’re looking for cultural one-day trips from Madrid. Especially if you throw in a visit to the National Sculpture museum too!

Though not as famous as other Spanish cities on the coast, Valladolid is a surprisingly large city on the River Pisuerga with lots of quirky statues and large city parks.

How To Get From Madrid to Valladolid by Train

From Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor , get a direct Renfe AVANT or ALVIA service to Valladolid Campo Grande station. These trains take just over one hour and there are around 30 services every day. Ticket prices start from €9.85.

Madrid to Salamanca Day Trips

One of the oldest Spanish cities and home to Spain’s oldest university, Salamanca is a student town through and through.

It’s compact, and lively, with its fair share of historic buildings like the grand Salamanca Cathedral which penetrates the city’s skyline. 

Think of Salamanca as Spain’s answer to Oxford or Cambridge in England. There’s even a picturesque river, the River Tormes, flowing through the city too.

How To Get From Madrid to Salamanca by Train

From Estación de Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor , take a Renfe ALVIA, Intercity, MD, or AVANT service to Salamanca station which takes around one hour and 40 minutes. Regional services can often take an hour longer, so avoid those when taking Madrid day trips to Salamanca.

Direct services are in the minority as most trains will require you to change at Ávila , Segovia Guiomar , or Valladolid Campo Grande . But direct services are there, so book ahead to get the service that’s best for you!

There are around 15 services a day and ticket prices start from €12.65.

Madrid Day Trips by Train FAQs

The best day trips from Madrid by train include destinations such as Segovia, Toledo, and Avila.

It is not necessary to speak Spanish to travel to these destinations, but it can be helpful to know a few basic phrases to communicate with locals.

The cost of train tickets can vary depending on the destination and the type of train, but it generally ranges from 5 to 15 euros for a one-way ticket.

Guided tours are available at some destinations, and they can be a great way to learn about the history and culture of the area. I highly recommend booking a few in advance.

The amount of time to spend at each destination can vary, but most people recommend allowing at least half a day to fully explore each destination. This also depends on whether or not you have booked a tour.

There may be discounts available for train tickets and attractions, such as group discounts or student discounts.

Day Trips from Madrid by Train Wrap-Up

Taking Madrid day trips by train could not be easier in such a well-connected and diverse country like Spain. It doesn’t matter which day trip destination you choose or how many side trips from Madrid you take. 

Your trip will be so much more exciting and memorable with a mini adventure to another exciting region or city in this beautiful country.

Looking for more Spain travel resources? Check out my Madrid travel tips , where to stay in Madrid with kids , things to do in Barcelona with kids , Barcelona travel tips , things to do in Madrid with kids , tips for Mallorca , Barcelona day trips , best day trips from Benidorm , how to plan a trip to Spain and hidden gems in Spain !

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10 Absolute Best Day Trips from Madrid

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

From the Prado Museum to Gran Vía, Madrid has plenty to keep you busy during your visit. However, whether it’s because you have extra time or you feel the need to get out of the big city for an afternoon, there are many fantastic day trips from Madrid.

Within two hours of the Spanish capital, travelers will find incredible towns awash with Roman and Renaissance history. You can explore 1st-century aqueducts, royal palaces, and Disney-inspired castles.

Each town marks a spot in a delightful, rolling countryside where the journey is as good as the destination. Don’t want to hire a car? Don’t worry. Madrid’s high-speed trains and immersive tours will help you see the best of the surrounding region.

Even if you are only spending 3 days in Madrid , you may want to add a day to your trip to explore one of these beautiful Spanish destinations.

Getting to the Best Madrid Day Trips 

The best way to explore most of Spain is by train. Spanish trains are well connected, especially from a hub as major as Madrid.

From Madrid, you can take regional trains to many of the best day trips or hop on a fast train to a major city anywhere in Spain and be there in half the time of a car.

The best place to book train travel in Spain is directly on the RENFE website . Try to book at least a few days in advance to get the best price. If you are booking last minute, you may get a better deal on Omio (even though they have a booking fee).

The second option for getting around to the best day trips from Madrid is to rent a car in Spain. You can rent them from Madrid airport when you arrive or pick one up close to downtown.

When I’m in Spain (or anywhere in Europe for that matter), I always check prices and usually find the best options on Discover Cars . They show you all of the lowest prices with rankings for each company so you know what you’re paying for.

You can select airport pickup or city center pickup. Their full coverage is always significantly cheaper than the full coverage offered by the rental car companies (but is just as comprehensive and easy to use). Check out rental prices on Discover Cars here .

The final option for exploring the outskirts of Madrid is to take a tour. You can explore tour options around Madrid using GetYourGuide or the similarly fantastic Viator for great, affordable, and locally run tour companies.

Best Day Trips from Madrid

The historic streets of Toledo create a scene that draws visitors from Madrid daily. Christian, Arab, and Jewish history, culture, art, and architecture infuse the former Spanish capital with a breathtaking aura.

These old, narrow streets, bound together like shoestrings, are a marvel to explore. Getting lost in this UNESCO World Heritage Site is merely a necessary part of the itinerary.

An hour by car, or half that by train, Toledo straddles these hilltops and gazes down at the Tagus River. Through its medieval core lies a litany of highlights. Step by step you’ll wander by (or explore) such majestic structures as the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcazar.

The former is renowned for its splendid facade, a spectacular interior, not to mention original pieces by the one El Greco. The Alcazar has an alluring blend of styles that combine the best of Moorish, Roman, and Gothic.

It’s an easy drive to get to Toledo, just 60 minutes down the A-42. There are also plenty of trains between Madrid and Toledo throughout the day. 

Do you prefer to leave the logistics to others, while diving deeper into Toledo’s history? Check out this guided tour , one that also provides free time to explore on your own.

Toledo is a beautiful city and an easy day trip from Madrid.

Even for the most seasoned traveler, memories of Cuenca don’t fade. Their medieval streets, as traditional as any in Spain, are enveloped by tall sandstone townhouses fixed with fabulous wooden balconies.

The colors of the town, like the sun itself, shimmer in broad daylight and it looks down into the valley with two river gorges collide.

From below, Cuenca stands on top of the hill like candles on a cake, if the edge of the cake was a sheer cliff and not something sweet.

Built into the top part of the cliffs are the town’s famous Casas Colgadas , developed between the 15th and 18th centuries. Hugging the hill with all its might, one can head out onto the balcony and either revel or be terrified by the sheer drop.

Cuenca lies just under two hours east of Madrid by car. As you explore, you’ll see that colgadas are just part of what makes this UNESCO site special. Get about on foot to admire the Parador de Cuenca, the Spanish Museum of Abstract Art, and the cathedral.

A train to Cuenca will help save you time at only an hour long. But if you’re thinking of a guided day trip, this tour takes you to Cuenca, Devil’s Windows, and the Enchanted City .

Cuenca’s hanging houses really do look like they are teetering on the edge carved into the mountainside.

3. Valencia

The coastal city of Valencia, on the shores of the Mediterranean, may seem a little too far for a day trip. That rings true if driving in Spain is your only option.

But you can turn that almost 4-hour journey into a cruisy 2-hour trip if you jump on Spain’s high-speed rail. Better yet, settle in for one of the best weekend trips from Madrid by spending two days in Valencia .

If you’ve only got the day, head out from the Spanish capital in the morning to make sure you can see as many of the wonderful things to do in Valencia as possible. After enjoying the scenery and the convenience of the train, get about exploring one of the country’s most beautiful locations.

Here, the past combines with modern culture and amazing food. It’s also a chance to trade the city heat for a dip in the cobalt-blue waters of the Mediterranean as one of the many Valencia beaches .

Refreshed, get about experiencing Valencia’s growing street art scene along El Carmen. Dance between boutiques, retro shops, and the Lonja Silk Exchange. To save time getting around all of the different sites in one day, you may want to consider using Uber in Valencia while you’re there.

When your tummy grumbles, head to Valencia’s Central Market. In the mood for some paella? Well, you’ll be happy to know Valencia is where the famous dish was invented. If you want to know more, join this paella class before jumping on the train back to Madrid.

When you arrive in Valencia by train, you’ll arrive at one of the two Valencia train stations , Valencia Nord, pictured here, is the most beautiful of the two.

It takes less than 30 minutes to get from Madrid’s Chamartín station to the ancient streets of Segovia. Stepping off the train, head to the entrance of the Old City, where pedestrianized streets allow you to take in every drop of history.

As you wander, there’ll be one structure that continues to grasp your attention: El Acueducto. The Roman aqueduct is almost 3000ft of engineering brilliance that dates back to the 1st century. It’s arguably the most impressive Roman monument that still stands in Spain. Across its 163 arches, it reaches a height of over 90ft (28m).

The jaw-dropping, comb-like structure is as good a first impression as one town can give. But as you continue to head towards the peak of Segovia, you’ll uncover the Plaza Mayor. This happening square is the cultural centerpiece, one that’s also home to the formidable cathedral from the 1500s.

After a stop for a coffee and treat in one of Plaza Mayor’s cafe patios, head west down the thin cobblestone alleys. Soon a sense of déjà vu will appear as you see the inspiration between Sleep Beauty’s castle. This is, in fact, El Alcazar, whose garden harbors wide views of the rolling Castilian countryside.

Combine your day trip to Toledo with Segovia and Ávila into one guided tour .

The famous Aquaduct of Segovia is well worth visiting on a day trip from Madrid.

5. Ávila

Whether it’s combined with Toledo and Segovia or a standalone destination, Ávila is one of the best day trips from Madrid. The center of its province, Ávila lies beyond medieval fortress walls, over 80 imposing towers, and 2,500 turrets.

Exploring the town at street level is only part of the fun. For better perspective and views, you can wander along the top of the 11th-century, 39ft tall defensive walls. From here, you can truly appreciate how well-preserved Ávila is.

After coming back down to earth, make a beeline for Plaza Mercado Chico . Here, travelers can get a real sense of not just the past, but Ávila’s current magic.

Like Segovia’s El Alcazar, there’s a hint of Disney joy here. Dine in the square before taking in Ávila’s other major sites. These include the Basilica of San Vicente, the Mirador of the Four Posts, and the Cathedral of Ávila.

Getting to Ávila is as simple as making your way to Madrid’s Principe Pio station . The regular trains make the 1hr 40 minute journey. Alternatively, you can join a tour like this one which includes stops in Toledo and Ávila .

The city of Aranjuez has beautiful architecture and history to explore while you are visiting as a day trip from Madrid.

6. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

One of the easiest day trips from Madrid, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez , was first established in the 16th century. The former opulent hunting lodge, known for its extravagant lawns, soon became the spring home of the Spanish Royal Family and their court.

Through the eras, the changing of kings, and a little help from damaging fires, the palace has a beautiful mix of architectural styles. Since 1931, it has been an open museum, where you can admire the brilliant facade up close, explore the embellished gardens, and wander through the luxurious chambers.

Each room tells its own story, with evidence, period furniture, and elaborate art painting a vivid portrait. Not to mention the literal portraits of former royalty that pop up throughout. Other notable highlights include the Porcelain Room, with endless porcelain tiles and chinaware. You can also explore the Hall of Mirrors, inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Lastly, the Throne Room, with obvious significance, but the magnificence of the thrown and rich decorations make it memorable.

After seeing as much as you can inside the palace, take in the Royal Gardens. Arguably the reason the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens, complete with glistening fountains, flowerbeds, and statues, are a sight to behold.

When traveling to the palace, we recommend the 40-minute drive. You can otherwise take the C-3 commuter line.

Salamanca is rich with history and architecture to explore on a day trip from Madrid.

7. Salamanca

Incredible history and architecture can be found in Salamanca, similar to many of our favorite Madrid day trips. But there’s something different about this little city. The sandstone architecture certainly sets it apart. However, it’s the city’s iconic university that makes the journey worthwhile.

The 15th-century intellectual movement was in part headed by the thinking minds of the University of Salamanca, an institution established four centuries prior. Today, it’s the third oldest university on earth.

Much like the university itself, Salamanca has grown largely uninterrupted, preserving its past along the way.

Known as the Golden City, Salamanca’s eye-catching sandstone buildings such as the New and Old Cathedrals will stop you in your tracks. The Old Cathedral, from the 12th century, boasts a wonderful Romanesque design with a colorful apse, opulent chapels, and a memorable cloister.

You can continue to take in the golden buildings at the Plaza Mayor. Surrounded by three stories of endless sandstone, enjoy a little fiesta at one of the square’s cafes and restaurants.

To get here, it’s around 2 hours and 15 minutes by car. You can also jump on a train from Madrid’s Chamartín station and around in under 2 hours. With so much history to cover, join this guided walking tour to see the town’s best monuments .

The buildings in Cuenca are what makes this such a special day trip from Madrid.

8. Chinchón

A quick hour from Madrid, Chinchón is a great way to escape the capital’s busy streets and enjoy a rural side to life in Spain. Chinchón sits on the hilltops and has developed a fantastic food scene and a relaxed atmosphere.

You should begin your trip to Chinchón at its unique medieval plaza. It’s not like any we’ve mentioned prior, purely due to its circular layout.

Surrounded by shady patios, delightful buildings, and a healthy buzz of locals and travelers, indulge in the cuisine at La Repesca Casa de Vinos or La Casa del Pregonero.

Sample all the tapas, paella, and, of course, some of Chinchón’s surrounding vineyards. If you’re looking for something a bit stronger, the local spirit Anís de Chinchón dates back over 300 years.

Well-fed and hydrated, set about exploring the rest of Chinchón. Highlights include the 15th-century clock tower, impressive views from the surrounding miradores, and the Parador de Chinchón.

One hour, by car or bus from Plaza Conde Casal, it’s an easy single-day adventure. If you’re into wines, this tour gives you a taste of town along with the surrounding wine region.

The Monastery of El Escorial draws visitors from all over Spain and it is well worth visiting even if you aren’t particularly religious.

9. Monastery of El Escorial

If the Royal Palace of Aranjuez has left you searching for more royal elegance and unforgettable architecture, then the Monastery of El Escorial is the answer. Under an hour by car from Madrid, it’s an easy half-day trip from the city center.

The Monastery of El Escorial is a little bit quieter than its more famous counterpart. In that sense, you get greater value as the monastery is the largest Renaissance building on earth.

Almost 450 years old, this complex site consists of a royal residence, pantheon, library, school, hospital, and museum.

El Escorial itself is a beautiful small town on the edge of one of Spain’s most iconic royal landmarks. It’s easy to overlook, but wandering the streets of this town, trying some local cuisine, and admiring the culture is a great way to complement your monastery experience.

It’s best to arrive by car, as the train & bus journey requires several stops. However, you can visit the monastery and the Valley of the Fallen on this guided tour .

The stunning castle of Segovia is straight out of a Disney movie and you don’t want to miss seeing it up close.

10. Ribera del Duero

We’ve hinted that Madrid lies near some fantastic vineyards. With a visit to Ribera del Duero, you can forego the history and Renaissance buildings for a joyous exploration of Spanish wines.

The Ribera del Duero wine region lies two hours from downtown Madrid. A car is necessary to make this trip, although there are several wineries and tasting tours . These allow you to ditch the keys and the responsibility while ensuring you get to enjoy the region’s best drops.

But folks, it wouldn’t be Spain without some historic castles, including Peñafiel and Peñaranda de Duero castles. So if you have some spare time, go exploring the splendid countryside.

Food to Try in Madrid

Madrid's Top Restaurants

Best Bars in Madrid

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Madrid Hotels

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Madrid's Art Museums

Guide to Retiro Park

Shopping in Madrid

Day Trips From Madrid

The 12 Best Day Trips From Madrid

Madrid is a world within a city, offering a thriving cultural atmosphere, great shopping and sightseeing, and unforgettable food. It also boasts a convenient location right in the heart of Spain itself, which makes the city a perfect home base when it comes to exploring the rest of the country. Throw in Spain's excellent network of intercity transportation (particularly the AVE high-speed train ), and there's really no excuse not to take one of these day trips from Madrid. Here's where to go if you want to see a different side of this fascinating country and be back in Madrid in time for an evening tapas crawl .

Toledo: The City of Three Cultures

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As Spain's former capital, it probably comes as no surprise that Toledo offers a long and storied history of its own. What makes the city particularly unique is its influence by each of the three major world religions. The winding streets of the old Jewish Quarter , awe-inspiring cathedral , and Spain's most impressive mosque outside of Cordoba help make this fascinating city one of a kind.

Getting There : AVANT trains operated by Renfe leave Madrid frequently and get you to Toledo in about half an hour.

Travel Tip : Toledo is quite hilly, and its cobblestoned streets can complicate things even further. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on doing a lot of walking.

Barcelona: Cosmopolitan Catalan Culture

Matt Boluddha / EyeEm/Getty Images

As Spain's second-largest city and a thriving hub of culture and history in its own right, Barcelona has made a name for itself as one of Europe's most exciting destinations. From the unfinished masterpiece that is the Sagrada Familia church and the quaint Catalan charm of picturesque Gracia , to a diverse drinks and dining scene and dozens of fabulous beaches , you're guaranteed to never be bored in the Catalan capital.

Getting There : Take the high-speed AVE train from Madrid (operated by Renfe , Spain's national rail service) to get there in two and a half hours.

Travel Tip : With endless options of things to see and do, Barcelona deserves more than just a day. Consider spending more time in the city in order to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

Seville: Andalusian Passion & Flamenco Flair

Dermot Conlan/Getty Images

Andalusia, Spain's southernmost region, is often what people imagine Spain to be: sultry and passionate, with a near-constant soundtrack of flamenco beats. Perhaps no place encapsulates that image more than the regional capital, Seville, a colorful and vibrant destination that looks like a postcard come to life. Take some time to explore the breathtaking cathedral and Alcazar , then head to Maria Luisa Park to row a boat along the lazy river in Plaza de España when you need a breather.

Getting There : Take the Renfe -operated AVE from Madrid, which lasts roughly two and a half hours.

Travel Tip : Due to its appearance on a recent season of Game of Thrones, Seville's Alcazar has become more popular than ever. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

Segovia: A Living Fairy Tale

Davide Seddio/Getty Images

While the towering Roman aqueduct may be Segovia' s biggest claim to fame, don't just come for the sake of checking it off your list. The storied medieval town is also home to an incredible cathedral and a castle (the Alcázar ) said to have inspired that of Disney's Sleeping Beauty.

Getting There : Getting to Segovia from Madrid couldn't be easier. Take the AVE train to get there in under half an hour.

Travel Tip : Segovia is famous for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). Don't leave without trying this delectable delicacy at a traditional spot like Restaurante José María .

El Escorial: A World Fit for Royalty

Daniel Hernanz Ramos

It's hard to sum up El Escorial in just a few words. Is it a palace, a monastery, a church or a library? The answer is all of the above, as well as the most important monument from the Spanish Renaissance. Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of King Philip II, the sprawling complex is one of Spain's most fascinating destinations.

Getting There : Madrid's commuter train, the Cercanías , will get you to El Escorial in about an hour. Take the C3 line from Atocha or Nuevos Ministerios. Bus 664 or 661 from Moncloa also get you there in about the same amount of time.

Travel Tip : While the eponymous royal complex is obviously the big draw for most visitors to San Lorenzo de El Escorial , try and take some time to explore the rest of the charming town if you can.

Valle de los Caídos: A Controversial Monument

Public domain/Wikimedia Commons

Perhaps the most controversial inclusion on this list of day trips from Madrid, Valle de los Caídos (Valley of the Fallen) is a remnant from Spain's fascist years under dictator Francisco Franco. The monument itself—an impressive stone cross and basilica—was built by prisoners of the Spanish Civil War, and today serves as Franco's final resting place.

Getting There : There is no direct public transport from Madrid to the valley—you have to make a stop in San Lorenzo de El Escorial (see above for information on reaching the town from Madrid). From El Escorial, take bus 660 to Valle de los Caídos o Cruce Cuelgamuros. The trip lasts 20-30 minutes.

Travel Tip : Due to the required stop in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, many travelers choose to combine the two into a single day trip from Madrid.

Ávila: The Majestic Walled City

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Often overlooked in favor of nearby Segovia and Salamanca, the beautifully preserved historic town of Ávila gives the more popular destinations a run for their money. Its biggest is the impressive medieval city wall , but another main draw is the Convent of Santa Teresa , a magnificent religious structure built on the home where St. Teresa of Ávila was born.

Getting there : Media Distancia trains from Madrid take about an hour and a half.

Travel Tip : Kill two birds with one stone: stop in Ávila for a few hours on your way to Salamanca to experience two of the region's most breathtaking cities in one day.

Consuegra: The Town of Don Quijote Fame

Renato is a Spanish photographer./Getty Images

Anyone who read Don Quijote in their high school Spanish class may remember how the titular character famously confused the giant windmills of Consuegra for monsters with flailing arms. While the massive white structures are certainly the town's biggest draw, the Moorish castle should not be overlooked, either.

Getting There : Buses operated by Samar take 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Consuegra from Madrid.

Travel Tip : Stock up on saffron while in Consuegra. It may be the world's most expensive spice, but it's one of the region's specialties.

Cordoba: The Caliphate City

Alex Lapuerta/Getty Images

Hop on a train in Madrid and you can be standing beneath the arches of Cordoba's Moorish-area Mezquita in two hours. The historic city is also home to a medieval Alcázar offering beautiful gardens and impressive views from its towers. If you have time, a trip out to the shimmering Muslim palace-city of Medina Azahara is well worth the effort as well.

Getting There : Take the AVE from Madrid to get to Cordoba in under two hours.

Travel Tip : If you get into town early enough and want to save 10 euros, entrance to the Mezquita is free from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

Valencia: A Colorful Mediterranean Metropolis

Jamie Ditaranto / TripSavvy

As Spain's third-largest city, Valencia offers a wealth of things to see and do within easy reach from Madrid. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences , and Valencia's charming old town —with remnants from the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors—provides a pleasant contrast.

Getting there : The AVE train from Madrid takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

Travel Tip : Foodies won't want to miss Valencia's massive Mercado Central , Europe's largest fresh food market and a verifiable gastronomic heaven.

Salamanca: An Academic Paradise

Daniel Viñé Garcia/Getty Images

Salamanca boasts a rich academic heritage—its university is one of the oldest in Europe. However, don't leave without snapping at least one photo in its breathtaking Plaza Mayor , or marveling at both of the city's two cathedrals .

Getting There : You can get to Salamanca from Madrid via bus. Vehicles are operated by Avanza and the trip lasts two and a half hours. Additionally, trains are available, but travel times differ depending on the type.

Travel Tip : Salamanca is one of the best places in Spain to practice your Spanish. The local variety of castellano is incredibly pure and easy to understand.

Cuenca: Hanging Houses & A Thriving Museum Scene

Cuenca is perhaps best known for its gravity-defying hanging houses, which sit perilously on the edge of a steep cliff. Once you've been left sufficiently breathless, get a taste of culture at the Museum of Abstract Art, or learn more about Spain's robust Holy Week celebrations at the Semana Santa Museum .

Getting There : Trains from Madrid get you to Cuenca in about an hour.

Travel Tip : Keep in mind when booking your train ticket that Cuenca has two stations: Estación de Cuenca-Fernando Zóbel, served by high speed trains, and Estación de Cuenca for everything else.

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15 Unforgettable Day Trips From Madrid And How To Make Them Happen

• April 12, 2024

Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, isn’t just a hub for art, cuisine, and lively nightlife; it’s also the perfect starting point for adventurers exploring the country’s diverse offerings. From the historic walls of Toledo or Segovia Aqueduct to the royal palaces of Aranjuez and El Escorial, beyond Madrid’s bustling Gran Vía, a world of historic towns, lush vineyards, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.

As a Madrid resident myself, I have spent a lot of time exploring the fringes of the city and the nearby neighbours, and as much as I love the city, there are so many things to do outside Madrid; it is fun to explore. So I thought I would share my insights and put together some of my top recommendations for the best day trips from Madrid.

The Sierra de Guadarrama (Madrid Mountains) hide traditional villages and beautiful hiking routes, wine tasting can be enjoyed surprisingly close or just a couple of hours away you’ll find the locals favourite Ribera del Duero region wine region. With easy access to the Renfe AVE (high-speed train), local buses, or guided tour services, it may surprise you what you can fit into a day trip.

This list is a mixture of cities near Madrid that you can easily reach by public transport as well as things to do in surrounding towns and villages that you may need to hire a car for . For each recommendation, I have also included information about how to get there. 

Finally, Spain loves food and everywhere you go is fiercely proud of their local fare, so you can rest assured I have included mentions of local cuisine or specific dishes that you should explore on your day trips. So, now I have whetted your appetite, let’s get going.

This is one of the most popular cities close to Madrid and definitely one of my favourite Madrid day trips. It is the one I recommend all of my friends take when they visit me, so I’ve become a pretty good tour guide for the city after my multiple visits to Segovia. 

The city is home to one of the finest surviving Roman Aqueducts in the world (allegedly built by the Devil!), as well as an impenetrable castle that may have inspired Disney and a stunning cathedral. 

What I love about the city is it is super easy to get to by train and just the perfect size for a day trip. You can easily explore the key sites and return to Madrid for dinner.

I highly recommend checking out my post specifically about a day trip to Segovia from Madrid. In it, I spill all the details about how to get there, my recommended itinerary, and more about what you can expect to see. Hopefully, you’ll understand why I always recommend it as my best day trip from Madrid.

Top things to see in Segovia

• The Segovia Aqueduct – dates back to 50AD and is rumoured to have been built by the Devil after a local youngling tricked him.
• Alcázar of Segovia – one of the few castles in Spain that has never been taken by force. Also allegedly one of the major inspirations for Walt Disney’s castle.
• Segovia Cathedral – a gigantic Gothic-style masterpiece known as the “Lady of Cathedrals” for its architectural beauty and significance in the region’s religious history. Don’t miss the wonderful views from the bell tower.
• Jewish Quarter – discover the city’s multicultural past and its significance to the cultural fabric.

What to eat

• Cochinillo Asado – a local traditional roasted pig fed on a special diet and cooked in a special oven.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid

The easiest way is by high-speed train from Madrid Chamartin station. The Segovia train station is a bit outside of the city itself, so when you arrive you will require a quick bus or taxi ride to get into the centre. The train takes around 30 mins from Madrid to Segovia.

There is a bus option, but it takes a bit longer, or you can hire a car and drive yourself which will take around an hour and a half. You can read more advice about getting to Segovia from Madrid here .

Another really popular day trip from Madrid is to Toledo, the old capital of Spain and a Toledo’s Historic City Centre is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. It is around one hour by car from Madrid or just 30 minutes by Renfe AVE high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha station.

Just bear in mind, if you are taking the train, Toledo Railway station is at the bottom of a hill and the city at the top. There are buses or you can take a taxi to the top and still back. The taxi costs around 6 euros.

The city was once the capital of Spain and is also known as “The City of Three Cultures”, a nod to being one of the few places that the Jewish, Muslim and Christian cultures co-existed in relative peace.

One thing that you will certainly notice on a Toledo day trip are the many shops that sell awesome swords. This is due to the city’s historical metalworking industry. The manufacture of swords in the city goes back to Roman times, but it was under Moorish rule and the reconquest years, 15th to 17th centuries, that the city’s sword-makers were widely recognised as the most talented around and Toledo swords came to be regarded as the best in Europe.

If you are looking for the perfect Toledo souvenirs then a sword would be the right choice. Of course, you may want to check your airline baggage rules before buying that 15th-century replica broadsword that would have had William Wallace running in fear!

Top things to see and do in Toledo

• Toledo Cathedral (Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo) – A gothic masterpiece dating to the 13th century.
• El Greco Museum – one of Spain’s most iconic artists. The museum is a recreation of the artists home.
• The Alcázar of Toledo – An imposing castle and key historical fortress on the cities highest point. Visit for panoramic views and home to an military Museum.
• Puente de San Martin – a picturesque medieval bridge across the River Tagus.
• Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca : Emblematic of Toledo’s rich religious history, showcasing the coexistence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures.
• Marzipan – A local speciality. The Toledano are experts at crafting swords and stunning marzipan desserts. You’ll find it in bakeries throughout the city.
• Carcamusas : A traditional Toledo dish made with pork, peas, and tomato sauce, offering a taste of local cuisine.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

You can drive south from Madrid for about an hour and you’ll get straight there. It’s a simple motorway so little chance of getting lost, although the road does get pretty busy at rush hour. The Madrid to Toledo train runs on average 8 times a day, leaving approximately every two and a half hours, between 6:50 am and 9:50 pm from Madrid’s Atocha station. Depending on which train you take, the travel time is between 33 – 60 minutes. 

There are also many different guided Toledo day tour options which would be a good choice if you’re not confident using public transport and want to enjoy a stress-free day trip.

Sat high atop a spur between the Júcar and Huécar rivers, another one of my favourite Madrid side trips is a day in Cuenca, Castilla La Mancha.

The most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas – the Hanging Houses. Dating back to the 15th Century, the houses were built into the cliff overlooking the steep ravine. The wooden balconies are synonymous with the city and certainly not a place for anyone with a fear of heights.

If you visit Cuenca, I would recommend starting in the castle area and working your way through the steep cobbled streets down into the main town. From here you can head to the hanging houses, cross the river over the spine chilling St Paul Bridge and work your way down to the lower part of the city.

If you are visiting with kids, I would certainly recommend allowing some time to visit the Paleontological Museum of Cuenca. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the centre or a quick taxi ride, but you’ll find a nice museum with many dinosaurs to entertain the little ones. My kids loved it up until the point they got pounced on by a man in an animatronic raptor suit; suddenly, they weren’t so brave!

The views back to the city are also pretty spectacular.

Top things to see in Cuenca

• Hanging Houses of Cuenca (Casas Colgadas) – the most iconic sight in Cuenca, these houses appear to cling perilously to the cliff edges. They are a must-see and highly photogenic.
• Cuenca Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María y San Julián) – Located in the main square surrounded by colourful houses. One of the oldest examples of Gothic architecture in Spain, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history and impressive art collection.
• Saint Paul Bridge (Puente de San Pablo) – A stunning walking bridge offering the best views of the Hanging Houses and the Huécar gorge. It’s a favourite spot for photographers, and sightseers. You may be OK, but the gaps in the floor, the slight swinging and the height certainly made me feel very uneasy!
• The Castle – not much of a castle left, but wonderful views and lots of restaurants.
• Paleontological Museum of Cuenca – Great for kids and wonderful views back to Cuenca

If you can stay for longer, you may also enjoy the stunning Serrania de Cuenca National Park

• Pisto Manchego – a delicious local dish made from vegetables (similar to ratatouille) served with a fried egg on top. I’m sorry to say though, wherever you eat it, it won’t be as good as my mother-in-law’s.
• Alajú – A traditional sweet from Cuenca made with almonds, honey, breadcrumbs, and various spices, wrapped in a thin wafer.

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid

As with most of these day trips from Madrid, the most sensible option would be the Renfe AVE train from Madrid-Atocha Train Station. It takes just an hour (give or take a few minutes depending on the train you choose) for the high-speed train from Madrid to Cuenca to complete the journey.

Compare that to the standard train, which takes about 3 and a half hours, or driving, which is about 2 and a half hours. The fast train is by far the best option for a day trip to Cuenca.

Just bear in mind, as with most of the high-speed train stations, Cuenca Fernando Zóbel Train Station is located a fair way outside the city and will require a taxi ride that takes around 10 – 15 mins and costs in the region of €12.

4. Madrid Wine Tour

While regions such as Rioja and Ribera Del Duero dominate Spanish wine fame, Madrid actually has its very own Denominación de Origen—Vinos De Madrid DO. This official designation covers several wine-producing zones in the Madrid region: San Martin and Navalcarnero to the Southeast and Arganda, the largest, to the southwest. The great thing is that all of them are accessible via public transport.

Yes, you read that right, no need to drive so you can sample as much as you’d like (although driving is a bit easier)

However, my best recommendation when visiting vineyards while tight on time is enjoying one of the day tours from Madrid and let someone else do the thinking.

If you did want to plan your own itinerary, I’d recommend reading this post that I have written for the Winerist website . It has all the details you need to know about reaching Madrid’s vineyards via public transport.

A few vineyards to look out for include Bodega del Real Cortijo in Aranjuez, Bodega Del Nero in Chinchon and Bodega Licina Wines in Morata de Tajuña.

The wine varieties of Garnacha, Tempranillo, and Albillo, are prominent in the region.

Also, be sure to check out my tips on flying with wine , as you’ll be wanting to take some back home with you!

Top things to see in the Madrid vineyards

Don’t . . . drink the wine

How to get to the Madrid vineyards

In the post linked above, you can see the public transport links to reach the vineyards, they involve either a train or the bus. However, a tour would be my recommended option, or if you have a partner who is willing to drive, this is by far the easiest way. I would recommend Arganda as the place to plan most of your visits, however, San Martin does have a lovely reservoir and “ beach ” you can visit as part of the day trip.

5. The Madrid Mountains

Just about an hour out of Madrid, you will find the Sierra de Guadarrama, Sierra del Norte and the Sierra de Gredos mountain ranges. I’ll be honest, they are no Alps, but they do offer a wonderful respite from the hectic pace of city life and in fact, many Madrileños own second homes in the area.

During the summer, the Madrid Mountains offer some excellent hiking, cycling and bird watching opportunities and in a good Winter, there are even some pretty decent ski ports for a few winter sports. It is possible to reach some of the areas by train, but if you really want to see the best spots, you either have to do it by car and drive yourself or take a tour .

Aside from hiking, there are some fantastic little villages to be explored. Puebla de la Sierra is a nice little village with a very good restaurant and easy hiking routes. But my favourite I have discovered (so far) is Patones de Arriba.

I have been there a few times now and it is such a picturesque little village. Sitting high up in the mountains, you are not allowed to drive into it, so you have to park your car and walk. It is possible to drive close, but most people leave their car at the bottom in the more modern village of Patones and hike up.

If you do drive to Patones de Arriba, be sure to leave time to go a little further up the road and check out El Atazar so you get some awesome views over the Atazar Reservoir (Madrid’s largest reservoir) and drive across the dam.

Top places to see in the Madrid Mountains

• Parador de Gredos – Historic hotel from where numerous hiking trails start.
• Buitrago del Lozoya – Notable for its well-preserved medieval walls and Mudejar-style castle.
• Patones de Arriba – my favourite village I have found so far. It takes a bit of effort to get there, but well worth it.
• Puebla de la Sierra – Another cute little village with a great restaurant in the main square
• Rascafria – Close to a reservoir, Rascafria is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools.

Anything in Rey de Patones – an amazing restaurant, but be sure to check your bank balance first!

How to get to there

Hiring a car is really the best option for this day trip.

6. Salamanca

Believe it or not, the famous university city of Salamanca is just a little over two hours away and is certainly possible to visit on a one-day trip from Madrid.

I’m lucky to have visited the city numerous times as my wife’s family have a place in the Sierra de Francia mountains , one of my favourite places in Spain. But this is not about that; this is about Salamanca.

The biggest thing in the city is the university, it was the first one in Spain and is widely recognised as one of the best in the world with students from around the globe. As you would expect, this gives the city a rather sophisticated feel of one steeped in academic history.

Two places in Salamanca stand out to me. First, the Plaza Mayor. Alongside Madrid, it is one of my favourite plaza mayors in Spain. Decadent facades are on all four sides, and there is a great little microbrewery to grab a drink, sit, and enjoy some people-watching. You’ll also find the Visitor Information Centre here.

My other highlight is crossing the pedestrianised Roman Bridge. When you reach the far side there are wonderful views back to the city and you can even find a little stony beach on the shore of the river to relax by.

Top things to do in Salamanca

• University of Salamanca – One of the oldest universities in the world, offering rich architectural and academic heritage.
• Plaza Mayor – Salamanca’s main square and a fine example of Baroque architecture, often bustling with cafes and tourist activities.
• Casa de las Conchas – A historical building known for its shell-covered façade and its mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements.
• Cathedral of Salamanca – Include both the Old and New Cathedrals, notable for their distinct architectural styles and historical importance. Make sure you hunt for the spaceman on the Cathedral door! Really!
• Convento de San Esteban – A stunning convent known for its ornate plateresque facade and its historical significance in the religious and political history of Spain.
• T he Roman bridge – Cross the River Tormes for lovely views of the city.
• Hornazo – A local speciality which is an oven-baked meat pie, but a bit more like bread than pastry, usually stuffed with pork loin, spicy chorizo, and hard-boiled eggs.

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid

The only real way to enjoy a day trip from Madrid to Salamanca is by driving yourself, it takes about two hours to drive to the city. It is possible to get the train, however, the first high speed departure from Madrid leaves just after 10 am and you don’t arrive in Salamanca until nearly 12 pm. You have to get the train back around 6pm so that only leaves you 6 hours to enjoy the city, which is enough if you are ninja fast, but not to see it all. 

It would be a good option if you want an overnight visit. There are regular buses from Madrid to Salamanca, operated by Avanzabus. They leave from the Madrid Sur bus station but take a little over 3 hours to arrive in Salamanca.

I know what you’re thinking, Seville? Really? A day trip? Well, stick with me here as with the AVE High-Speed Train, it is totally possible to take day trips from Madrid to Seville, in fact, I have a whole post about it complete with a Seville in a day itinerary . But is it worth it? Of course. I fell in love with the city on my visit. 

Seville is the capital of the Andalusia region of Spain. Famous for Flamenco and the traditional Spanish pastime of bullfighting. Now, personally, I hate the “sport” of killing a bull and I don’t feel it has a place in the modern world, but there is quite a history and prestige to it and, it is said that as a Matador if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.

Further back there is a massive Moorish influence on the city, which most represented the Alcazar of Seville , an amazing palace to visit and even a filming site for the Game of Thrones.

Seville is also home to the world’s largest cathedral the the tomb of Christopher Columbus, a tower of gold, delicious tapas and weird architecture in the shape of mushrooms.

However, as amazing as it is, a day trip to Seville from Madrid is not cheap, but it is definitely worth it.

Top things to see in Seville

• A flamenco show in Triana- after all, this district in Seville is the birthplace of this emotional dance.
• The Alcázar of Seville – A must-see UNESCO World Heritage site. Just dripping in decadence and you’ll never want to leave the garden.
• The Cathedral and Bell Tower – the largest cathedral in the world and a bell tower you can climb, what’s not to love?
• The streets of the old Jewish Quarter – Great food & great stories, you can really get into the history of Seville in this area.
• Plaza de España – It’s famous for its semi-circular brick building, ornamental bridges, and beautiful ceramic tiles located in María Luisa Park. Also, a filming spot for the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
• Metropol Parasol – Known locally as Las Setas, this is a modern architectural wonder. The large wooden structure fills a plaza and you can get on top of it for some fantastic views.
• Secreto Iberico – a cut of pork that just melts in your mouth
• Gazpacho or Salmorejo – tomato-based Andalusian soups served chilled

How to get to Seville from Madrid

If you want to take a day trip to Seville, the high-speed train is your only real option as it is a long drive. It takes a little under 3 hours each way, but with regular departures throughout the day from Madrid’s Atocha Station, there is plenty of time to see the city highlights and be back in Madrid by bedtime.

The tickets cost in the region of €100 each way, but If you can book tickets early , there is a good chance you can save up to 25%. It does seem like a lot, but it is certainly a city worth visiting to really enjoy some of the southern Spanish cultures. 

An incredibly popular day trip from Madrid is Avila . Tours will often combine it with a visit to Segovia . If you are looking to get the most out of your time in Spain, that could be a really good option.

As you approach Avila from the outside, it looks spectacular, is it a walled city with some of the most eye-catching fortifications you will see thanks to years of restoration work. It really is postcard perfect.

However, on my visit to Avila, once I had breached the city walls, I found it a little underwhelming. As with most Spanish cities, there are plenty of churches to visit, and the main cathedral is pretty spectacular. The walk around the top of the walls was a really nice experience, but other than that, I didn’t find a whole lot more that really stands out about the city.

While Avila is a nice side trip from Madrid, if you allow a full day here, you may find yourself getting a little bored by the end, but it is certainly worth visiting. It is a nice stop on the way to Salamanca, or as mentioned previously, part of a multi-stop organised tour.

Top things to see do in Avila

• The Walls of Ávila – The city walls are among the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage site . They can be enjoyed from a distance or also walking along the top.
• The tourist train – a nice little tour which is a great way to get a concise history of Avila and see the main sites. It will also take you to a viewpoint out side of the city to get nice photos of the walls.
• Ávila Cathedral (The Cathedral of the Saviour) – Integrated into the city’s defense system, this cathedral is one of the first Gothic cathedrals in Spain and offers architectural and spiritual insights.
• Amarguillos – traditional almond flavoured pastries
• Yemas de Santa Teresa – a sweet made from egg yolks

How to get to Avila from Madrid

The best way to see Avila is either by organised tour or driving yourself. This gives you the most flexibility to see as much as possible in a day. It is a simple drive, motorways all the way (with a toll), but leaving Madrid can get busy at peak times.

There are nearly 20 trains a day that go between Madrid and Avila, but they are not high-speed trains so take around 1 hour and 45 minutes. I would not recommend this as an option.

9. Zaragoza

I visited Zaragoza recently, and although I must admit I cheated, it was an overnight trip, not a day trip; however, the fact that it is a very pretty city and on the high-speed train line certainly makes it worth considering. 

In fact, it is the only stop between Madrid and Barcelona , so if you are travelling between the two cities, I would highly recommend breaking your ride up a bit and spending a few hours exploring Zaragoza.

The city’s heart lies in the Plaza Nuestra Señora del Pilar. It is a huge square where you will find the gorgeous Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, that faces onto the River Ebro, La SEO Cathedral and the entrance to the historic Roman parts of the city.

However, my highlight is a network of alleyways called El Tubo. It is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas. We eat some mushroom burgers, croquettes, migas and much more, if you love your food and drink, you will not want to leave.

If you would like to read a more in-depth guide, check out my what to see in Zaragoza post to be fully inspired.

Top things to see in Zaragoza

• La SEO Cathedral – an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years.
• Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar – Simply stunning from the outside and home to a dome that was painted by Goya and a tower you can get to the top of for wonderful views. 
• Aljafería Palace – an old Moorish palace and a stunning example of Islamic architecture in Northern Spain with some lovely courtyards.
• Cross Stone Bridge – cross the old river bridge and look back across the Ebro for great views of the Basilica.
• Everything . . . in El Tubo

Once again we’re back on the AVE High-Speed Train. Zaragoza is on the high-speed train route between Madrid and Barcelona meaning there are loads of departures from Atocha station throughout the day. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to Zaragoza-Delicias station. As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona.

10. Aranjuez

The small town of Aranjuez is a nice escape from the city of Madrid. It is only 45 minutes by car or a little under an hour by Renfe Cercanías (Commuter Train). However, most visitors to the city take what is known as the Strawberry Train.

The area of Aranjuez was a traditional strawberry producing powerhouse, and the Strawberry Train tries to take you back to this era. You get on the train at the old railway station which is now the Madrid Train Museum and an old school (read: uncomfortable) train carriage will take you to the town.

The train guards dress up in traditional clothing and on your return to the city you get given a serving of strawberries.

The biggest draw in the town is the huge royal palace and expansive gardens. Aranjuez has been one of the Royal Estates of the Crown of Spain since 1560 and for nearly 200 years, until 1752, only the royalty and nobility were allowed to live in the town.

In fact, the Aranjuez Cultural Landscape is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This cultural landscape includes the palace and surrounding gardens, reflecting the concept of an ideal city that influenced landscape design in the Americas.

Top things to see in Aranjuez

• Royal Palace of Aranjuez – A beautiful palace that is a key attraction, famous for its blend of architectural styles and its historical significance as a former residence of the Spanish royal family.
• Prince’s Garden (Jardín del Príncipe) – Famous for its wide variety of flora, historical buildings, and the peaceful Falúas Museum (Museo de las Falúas Reales), which houses historic royal pleasure boats.
• Plaza de Toros – one of the oldest in Spain.
• Fresas de Aranjuez (Strawberries of Aranjuez of course) – as mentioned, Aranjuez is famous for its strawberries. When visiting, you must sample these locally grown fruits.
• Menestra de Verduras – A vegetable stew and a typical dish in Aranjuez, reflecting the agricultural richness of the region.

How to get to Aranjuez from Madrid

If you choose not to take the strawberry train, The C3 Renfe Cercanías line directly connects Madrid’s Atocha Station with Aranjuez. Regular bus services also link Madrid to Aranjuez from the Méndez Álvaro bus terminal (Estacion Sur).

Alternativly, if you want to kick it easy, other organised tours will take you to the town or you can also drive yourself. It will take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid.

11. Ribera del Duero

I’m back with another wine region. While outside of Spain, there is no doubt Rioja is considered the best wine from the country, however, those in the know also talk about this smaller wine region named Ribera del Duero. It is home to some of Spain’s top winemakers and, unlike Rioja, is within reach of a day trip from Madrid.

The Ribera del Duero wine route runs along the Duero river, the same one that flows all the way through Portugal and is famous for Port wine. But this is nearer the beginning of the river’s life. It covers a length of over 70 miles through Castile-León.

There are many underground wine cellars to discover in the region, a wonderful mix of famous producers and small family affairs.

Top things to see in Ribera del Duero

• Vineyards – lots of them. Bodegas Protos is my personal favourite.
• Aranda de Duero – a nice little town in the area.
• Grapes . . . in their liquified state

How to get to Ribera del Duero from Madrid

If you are visiting wine regions, I would always recommend taking a tour as you can then relax and enjoy without worrying about drink-drive limits. 

If you would rather take public transport, you can get buses to various towns in the region from Valladolid which is reachable from Madrid by train or intercity bus.

12. Chinchón

Probably the least famous town on this list, Chinchón is home to one of Spain’s prettiest Plaza Mayors. 

The Medieval plaza is surrounded by old buildings with iconic wooden balconies, it is like a little time trap as you step into the past. 

The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción sits atop a hill, overlooking the town and is home to a piece of early work by Goya, one of Spain’s most famous artists.

One other thing to bear in mind, if you are travelling with teenagers, Chinchón is really close to the Warner Brothers Theme Park. If Theme Parks are not your thing, just drop your kids there for the day while you explore the town.

Top things to see in Chinchon

• Chinchón Castle – Also known as Castillo de los Condes, although mostly in ruins, it still offers a glimpse into Spain’s feudal past and is a point of interest for visitors.
• Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción – A lovely church that houses “The Assumption of the Virgin”, a painting by Goya, making it an important cultural and historical site.
• The Clock Tower – Standing as a solitary remnant of a destroyed church, it is an iconic symbol of the town.
• Garlic Soup – The town loves its garlic, they even have a festival in honour of the delicious little edible bulb every October.
• Drink Anisette – Chinchón’s famous anise liqueur. Adding on a visit to a local distillery can be a fascinating experience.

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid

The best way is driving. If you have a car it is about 45 minutes to drive to Chinchón from Madrid.

13. El Escorial & The Valley of the Fallen

El Escorial is a town just to the north of Madrid that most people visit to see the imposing Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial , and the nearby Valley of the Fallen, a Catholic basilica and controversial civil war memorial.

The Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial can get confusing as it is also known as the Monasterio del Escorial, is a large palace that dates back to the 16th century. 

Visitors can spend hours exploring the hallways and gardens, but my stand out memory was the catacombs. There are many tombs of famous royals from throughout history, but none quite as spectacular as the Panteón Real de El Escorial, a small room down a long flight of stairs that only the top of the royal hierarchy can be laid to rest.

The room glows in red and gold with a magnificent chandelier hanging high above your head. The coffins are vertically lined up the walls with the names of the ex-monarchs. I would love to show you, but it is not allowed to take photos.

About 20-minutes up the road from El Escorial is The Valle de Los Caídos, which translates to The Valley of the Fallen. A huge cross in the mountains marks the site of this basilica that was built during the Franco regime. 

Franco claimed that the monument was meant to be a “national act of atonement” and reconciliation with fighters from both sides of the war buried there, although much of it was built through the forced labour of political prisoners.

But, as it was also the burial site of Franco himself, it became a shrine for the far-right and detested by many Spaniards.

However, that was up until October 2019, when Franco’s body was exhumed and relocated to the understated (by Spanish standards) El Pardo-Mingorrubio cemetery.

While moving the body proved to be a controversial move that divided opinions across the country, the aim of the government is to see The Valle de Los Caídos move away from a site where Spain’s far-right pay homage to the dictator and become “a place of commemoration, remembrance and homage to the victims of the war”.

No matter what your political persuasion, there is no doubt the monument is an impressive maker to the bloody past of a dark time in Spain’s history.

Top things to see in El Escorial

• Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial – It’s not only a royal palace but also a monastery, a school, and a historical burial place for the kings of Spain.
• The Cross – a towering 150-meter (500 ft) cross which is one of the largest in the world and visible from miles away.
• The Basilica and Abbey at The Valley – an underground basilica carved into the rock with a Benedictine abbey adjacent to the complex.
• Suckling pig roasted in a traditional wood oven

How to get to El Escorial from Madrid

El Escorial is about 50km by car from Madrid and will take a little over an hour to get to. It is also easily reachable by public transport. Trains to El Escorial leave from Atocha or Chamartín station. They are the municipal Cercanías Renfe lines which mean there are a lot of stops, but they are also cheap. Take line C-8 or C-3 which depart every hour and the journey lasts approximately one hour. 

Once you arrive at the El Escorial train station, it is about a 15 – 20-minute walk uphill to get to Monastery of El Escorial. However, there are also plenty of tuk-tuk drivers who offer tours of the town and trips up to some wonderful viewpoints.

If you wish to tie in a visit to The Valley of the Fallen, you can either take a taxi from El Escorial or a tour. You can also organise private tours that will take you to both sites with pick up and drop off. As always, this will be a bit more expensive but that’s the price for a stress-free trip.

14. Alcalá de Henares

Alcala de Henares is a town that is one of the more popular side trips from Madrid as it can easily be visited using Madrid’s Cercanías rail system. It is a university town that is most famous for being the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Spain’s most famous literary work, Don Quixote.

As you’d expect, the town is home to the Cervantes Birthplace Museum where you can learn about the life and inspiration of the “Spanish Shakespeare”. The town also has some wonderful large squares and impressive Mudejar architecture.

Top things to see in Alcala de Henares

• Cervantes Birthplace Museum
• Plaza de Cervantes
• Laredo palace
• Torre De Santa Maria
• Regional Archaeological Museum of Madrid
• Rosquillas de Alcalá – traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze

How to get to Alcala de Henares from Madrid

It takes a little over 35 minutes to drive from Madrid to Alcala, but there is also a local train on Madrid’s public transport system that will take you there. The C-2 Cercanías line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares. It takes about 45 minutes and trains leave every half hour or so. Alcala de Henares is in zone B-3 which means a return ticket can be bought for less than €5.

If you want to just relax and enjoy the day, then tours with pick up and drop off are available and offer good value.

15. Monasterio de Piedra

The Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park is a large park and monastery a little over 2 hours outside of Madrid.

Years of erosion by the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular waterfalls that visitors can visit and wander around. The route even takes you behind one of the largest in the park. 

The site has also been carefully landscaped over many years by the monks that live in the monastery on site. The result is a wonderful harmony of natural falls and crafted waterways to impress the many visitors.

As well as the park you can visit the monastery itself and a small wine and chocolate museum with winemaking exhibits and information about the relationship between monks and winemaking as a commercial business to fund their way of life.

Top things to see in Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park

• Waterfalls & Lakes
• Trucha a la Piedra – trout cooked in the style of Piedra
• Chocolate – lots of it obviously

How to get to Monasterio de Piedra from Madrid

The best way is by far to drive yourself, but there are bus and train options. I have broken it all down in my other post specific to a day trip to Monasterio de Piedra . If you would like an in-depth look about how to get there, you can find it near the top of the post as well as some more tips about what to expect from the park.

Final thoughts on the best day trips from Madrid

While I do love living in the city of Madrid, one of my favourite things to do is leave it behind for a day and explore further afield. 

In this post, I haven’t even mentioned some of the micro trips and things to do in surrounding towns in Madrid. You can visit sites such as the unique cathedral in Mejorada Del Campo or eat olives in Campo Real.

Whether you are in Madrid for a week or a year, I hope you have found some inspiration in this post and are ready to explore some amazing places.

If you know of anything I may have missed off of this list, drop it in the comments, I’d love to check it out myself some time and maybe add it to the list.

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13 Day Trips from Madrid By Train You MUST See

Staying in Madrid and looking for quick weekend trips? Here are the 13 best day trips from Madrid by train .  

Madrid is a gorgeous city and definitely worth a visit. However, several other cities in Spain are equally worth a visit. So, don’t limit yourself to Madrid; instead, explore more of Spain if your time and budget allow it. 

But where to go?! Here’s where I come into play. 

In this post, I’ve listed the top places near Madrid for day trips so you can explore other Spanish cities while you’re in Madrid. 

So, whether you are staying long-term in Madrid & need a break from the city, or you simply want to see another city on your trip to Madrid, I’ve got you covered with the best day trips from Madrid by train. 

This post is all about day trips from Madrid by train. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the  full disclosure  for more information.

Day Trips from Madrid by Train

This post is strictly dedicated to day trips from Madrid by train. However, most of these destinations, if not all, are accessible via car, plane, or even bus. Riding by train is a more unique travel experience, and I highly recommend it while in Europe!

*Did you know? Europe has a highly robust railway system that allows travelers to see over 30 countries on the continent! And unlike traveling by plane, you get to see the most breathtaking scenery when traveling by train. The countryside is so beautiful, you might not ever want to travel by anything other than train. 

Now, without further ado, here are the best day trips from Madrid by train. 

The first day trip is to Seville, in southern Spain. If you haven’t been to southern Spain, let me tell you, it’s quite the treat. And Seville is the best place to start. 

Not only is it warmer, but the dialect is different, and the people are friendlier—all things you’d expect from the southern part of any area. I wonder why that is. 

Anyhow, Seville is an excellent option for a day trip; it has much to see and do. Plus, it’s super close to Madrid. 

How to get from Madrid to Seville by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Seville. You will arrive at Seville’s Santa Justa Station. 

Travel Time : 2 hours and 20 minutes

Ticket Cost : Prices as low as $44 and as high as $62 (USD)

Book your ticket to Seville here!

Toledo is the next quick day trip from Madrid. And when I say quick, I mean fast. You can get to Toledo from Madrid in about half an hour, which is perfect for maximizing your time. 

Located in central Spain, Toledo looks like it came from ancient times. It is filled with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and ancient landmarks. Plus, Toledo is a super affordable city, so if you’re looking for cheap day trips from Madrid, this is the place for you. 

This Spanish city will undoubtedly sweep you away with its charm, making it the perfect city to explore outside Madrid. 

How to get from Madrid to Toledo by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Toledo. 

Travel Time : 33 minutes

Ticket Cost : $16 (USD)

Book your ticket to Toledo here!

If you’re looking for medieval cities, Ávila‎ is the place to see. This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its well-preserved medieval walls. These walls wrap around the entire town, which travelers can see from far away. 

Other great things to do in the city include seeing the ancient churches, dining on the local cuisine, and simply relaxing in the calm atmosphere. This city is definitely your day trip if you want a more tranquil experience. 

While there aren’t many things to do in Ávila‎, it’s definitely worth visiting as a day trip. 

How to get from Madrid to Ávila‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Ávila‎.

Travel Time : 1 hour and 40 minutes

Ticket Cost : $15 (USD)

Book your ticket to Ávila‎ here!

Next on the list of day trips from Madrid is Córdoba, another beautiful city in the south of Spain. 

Steeped deep with centuries of history, Córdoba has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Yes, you heard that right— four ! 

As you can imagine, there is a lot to see in Córdoba. In addition to the historical sites, you can expect nice warm weather, delicious food, and more!

Also, Seville is right around the corner, so you can add Seville to your Córdoba trip and make it a whole weekend trip!

How to get from Madrid to Córdoba‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Córdoba‎.

Travel Time : Around 2 hours

Ticket Cost : $37 (USD)

Book your ticket to Córdoba‎ here!

5. Salamanca

Salamanca is well known for its stunning architecture and its long history. Like others on this list, Salamanca is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is perfect if you enjoy visiting these historical sites. 

The beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets add a romantic side to the city, making Salamanca an excellent option for a romantic getaway with your significant other. 

Plus, the food and wine are superb: tapas, cheeses, and curated meats. What more do you need?!

How to get from Madrid to Salamanca‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Salamanca‎.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 40 minutes

Ticket Cost : $30 (USD)

Book your ticket to Salamanca‎ here!

6. Valencia

Valencia is another one of my favorite destinations in Spain. Spain itself is an exciting country to visit, but Valencia takes the cake! It offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in Spain. 

If you enjoy festivals, you’ll want to attend the famous Fallas of Valencia festival, which occurs every March. The festival celebrates the coming of spring, during which time the community showcases its creativity. It’s a fun and exciting event you don’t want to miss. 

In addition to this UNESCO festival, Valencia is known as the city of arts and sciences because it has many museums specifically dedicated to these topics. 

Valencia is also the birthplace of paella. And you know if such a delicious dish came from this city, it is bound to have more delicious food. So, as you can see, Valencia has a lot to see!

How to get from Madrid to Valencia‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Valencia‎.

Ticket Cost : $21 (USD)

Book your ticket to Valen cia here!

7. Barcelona

Next is my all-time favorite city in Spain (I may be biased because I used to live there) – drumroll, please…Barcelona! 

Barcelona is a bustling city with much to see and do. It boasts beautiful beaches and the gorgeous Montserrat mountains nearby. So, you get the best of both worlds here. You’ll also find stunning architecture, fascinating history, and rich culture, not to mention mouthwatering cuisine. 

So, if you’re considering a weekend trip from Madrid, Barcelona is an excellent option. 

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Barcelona, check out my two-day itinerary or list of things to do at night in Barcelona!

How to get from Madrid to Barcelona‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Barcelona.

Travel Time : 2 hours and 30 minutes

Ticket Cost : $44 (USD)

Book your ticket to Barcelona here!

Segovia is another super quick day trip from Madrid; you can reach the town in under 30 minutes. The World Heritage town is full of ancient Roman ruins, such as the aqueduct, the cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and many other popular sites! If you’re into history, specifically Roman history, you’ll want to check out Segovia. 

And when you’re not exploring the mansions and such, you’ll want to dine on the local cuisine in Plaza Mayor.

You’ll truly feel like you stepped into a fairytale when visiting Segovia, which is quite the contrast to Madrid. 

How to get from Madrid to Segovia‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Segovia.

Travel Time : 25 minutes

Book your ticket to Segovia here!

Cuenca is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, like many other cities, due to its well-preserved streets and city. 

Cuenca sits perched on a wall of rock, which gives it an otherworldly, medieval vibe right off the bat. But these Hanging Houses aren’t the only thing giving the city this vibe. You’ll also find prehistoric ruins, cobblestone streets, and ancient buildings that build on this theme. 

This beautiful Spanish town is known for its top-notch restaurants, calming squares, numerous museums, and winding rivers. So whether you visit the city for the castle ruins or old cathedrals, Cuenca will surely capture your heart. 

How to get from Madrid to Cuenca‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Cuenca.

Travel Time : 54 minutes

Ticket Cost : $20 (USD)

Book your ticket to Cuenca here!

10. Aranjuez

One of the top cheap day trips from Madrid by train is Aranjuez. For less than $10, you can hop on the train to visit this gorgeous city. The town is located in central Spain, just south of Madrid. 

Aranjuez is a very laidback and chill town that offers an excellent alternative to Madrid’s more bustling culture. The city is most famous for the Palace of Aranjuez, the royal family’s vacation spot for centuries. Because of its stunning gardens, the town of Aranjuez has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

I recommend visiting Aranjuez if you want a cheap, relaxing day trip. 

How to get from Madrid to Aranjuez‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Aranjuez.

Travel Time : 30 minutes

Ticket Cost : $6 (USD)

Book your ticket to Aranjuez here!

11. Granada

Next is Granada, another popular destination to visit in Spain. This city sits right at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada mountains. So, Granada is an excellent destination for you if you enjoy skiing since it is right by the mountains. 

However, Granada also has sandy beaches, making it the perfect destination to visit anytime! 

Besides these fun activities, Granada has a rich culture and a long history. The city has a strong Moorish influence, which is evident in its buildings and structures. So, there is a lot of exciting history to explore here. 

And now, maybe my favorite reason to visit Granada is that tapas are free. Yes, free! You just need to order a drink, and you will get your tapas for free. 

If that’s not enough to make you want to visit, I don’t know what is. 

How to get from Madrid to Granada‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Granada.

Travel Time : 3 hours and 30 minutes

Ticket Cost : $67 (USD)

Book your ticket to Granada here!

12. Zaragoza

Another epic day trip from Madrid by train is Zaragoza, Spain’s fifth biggest city. Like other Spanish cities, this old city has a long history, being ruled by the Romans, Moors, and the Goths. Each group has left its mark on the town in some way or another. As a visitor, you can learn exactly how each group designed and influenced the city. 

Besides its rich history, Zaragoza is a vibrant Spanish city with delicious food, impressive architecture, and locals everywhere living their lives. If you enjoy observing people or examining culture, Zaragoza offers one of the best opportunities for it. 

Zaragoza is an excellent place for a weekend getaway or a day trip. Regardless of the length of your stay, you’ll have a blast!

How to get from Madrid to Zaragoza‎ by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Zaragoza.

Travel Time : 1 hour and 30 minutes 

Ticket Cost : $33 (USD)

Book your ticket to Zaragoza here!

13. Manzanares el Real Castle

Medieval castles seem to have been the theme for this post, and I’ve got one more to add: Manzanares el Real. If you enjoy visiting old castles, you’ll want to add this destination to your list of the best day trips from Madrid!

The Manzanares el Real Castle was built in the 15th century and is one of the best-preserved castles, so it’s definitely a must-see . This impressive structure was built for the Castillian military, but it ended up being the residence of the Mendoza family. You can still see furniture in the castle that dates back to the 17th century, which is super interesting. 

If you’re anything like me and enjoy learning about how people used to live centuries ago, then you won’t regret making the trip to this castle. 

How to get from Madrid to Manzanares el Real by train

Head to Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha) station to catch the train to Manzanares el Real.

Book your ticket to Manzanares el Real here!

Day Trips from Madrid FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about day trips from Madrid.

What is the best coastal town near Madrid?

Spain is full of beautiful coastal towns, so choosing just one is hard. Here are a few of my favorites: Barcelona, Valencia, Sitges, San Sebastian, and Tenerife. 

What is the best area to stay when visiting Madrid?

The best area to stay in when visiting Madrid is the city center, which is near all the top attractions. Read about the best hotels in Madrid here! 

What is the number one attraction in Madrid?

The number one attraction in Madrid is the Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace of Madrid). This palace is the royal family’s official residence; however, they don’t actually live there. 

The palace is HUGE, with over 3,000 rooms! So, it is quite the sight & worth the visit. 

You can grab your ticket for a guided tour here.  

Check out my Madrid itinerary if you’re looking for things to do in Madrid! 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are several day trips from Madrid by train, each with its charm. So, whether you’re looking for an extra city to visit during your trip to Spain’s capital or merely just need a break from the bustling city, you have plenty of options. 

Regardless of where you visit, you will surely have a fantastic time!

Stay blessed, lovelies! Wishing you safe & happy travels. 

~ Jacquelyn

This post is all about day trips from Madrid by train . 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Jacquelyn is the owner of La Vie de Jacquelyn, a travel blog that helps people make the most of their traveling experiences. When she isn’t exploring the world or writing blog posts, she’s loving on God & His people.

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17 Best Day Trips from Madrid & How to Plan Them

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: December 14, 2022

Home >> Destinations >> 17 Best Day Trips from Madrid & How to Plan Them

There is so much to do in Spain’s capital, we recommend at least three days in Madrid . However, Madrid also makes an excellent base for some of Spain’s best day trips.

Using Spain’s excellent high-speed train system, it is possible to visit some of the best attractions on day trips from Madrid. So while at least three days in Madrid is optimal, a few days extra will allow you to access some of the country’s most incredible cities and attractions.

Table of Contents

How to Get Around

Each day trip listed has information on how to get there, or we recommend tours that might make better sense or offer exceptional value.

The train is usually the best way to travel around Spain – this is the case with many of these day trips. However, some of the best day trips from Madrid are better if done by car. Driving allows you to visit multiple towns or cities in one day where they are close. It also allows you the flexibility of exploring the magnificent countryside, wine regions and smaller towns where transport may be tricky.

Car hire from Madrid is very reasonable – Discover Cars search for the best rates in Madrid with prices as little as €75 for two days in a small car – perfect for navigating Madrid city and the small towns and cities. See here to compare car rental rates .

Search the Best Accommodation Deals in Madrid

The Best Day Trips from Madrid

San lorenzo de el escorial monastery and palace.

1 hr from Madrid | 58 km | Unesco Listed Palace

Less than an hour from Madrid, nestled in the southern slopes of the  Sierra de Guadarrama , is the quaint 16th-century town of San Lorenzo del Escorial (El Escorial). It is home to the  UNESCO-listed  Royal Monastery and Palace of El Escorial.

Just one of Spain’s many UNESCO sites, the Royal Monastery and Palace of El Escorial hold great significance. One of the most popular day trips from Madrid, The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is easy to access. The town also offers visitors a lot to see in the way of charming shops and traditional restaurants.  

Initially conceived as a monastery in the 16th century and a mausoleum for the royal family, the royal residence grew to include a basilica, a library containing over 40,000 books, two royal palaces and magnificent halls and gardens. 

The Pantheon of the Kings is a highlight – the remains of every monarch since the 16th century are laid to rest in breathtaking gold and marble tombs.

The nearby Valley of the Fallen is worth a stop to see the  controversial Civil War Monument . An enormous 150-meter cross towers over a basilica which Dictator  Francisco Franco  claimed was a “national act of atonement” and reconciliation.

If You Have Time : Combine this with a trip to Toledo, Segovia or Salamanca, which are within easy reach. 

Tour Recommendation : If you prefer to visit San Lorenzo de El Escorial with a guided tour, you can take an El Escorial and Valley’s Basilica Half-Day Tour from Madrid . The five-hour tour includes return transport, guides, and entry to the Monastery, royal monuments, the Valley of the Fallen and the Basilica with audio guides. See here for full tour details .

For a full-day tour that combines two historical sites, try the  Toledo and El Escorial tour from Madrid , recommended below.  

How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. Take bus lines 661 and 664 from the Moncloa transport hub. The 664 bus is the most direct and drops you very close to the monastery. 
• Train:  Approximately 1 hr. Take the regional train C8a from Atocha station. It is around a 10-minute walk to the monastery. 
• Car:  Approx. Fifty-five minutes from central Madrid.

1 hour from Madrid | 74 km | UNESCO Site and   Moorish Architecture

One of the most popular day trips from Madrid and one of Spain’s most visited UNESCO sites, there are plenty of reasons to visit Toledo.

Called the “City of Three Cultures”, Toledo is a rare city where Islamic, Hebrew and Christian faiths lived and co-existed harmoniously. The influence of its successive Christian, Muslim, and Jewish occupants reflected in the architectural, cultural and artistic legacies.

Visitors can trace this fascinating history within the medieval walls, exploring the narrow cobbled streets to discover a magnificent array of churches, convents, monasteries, synagogues, and mosques.

Situated on a hill with sweeping views of the Río Tajo, the Alcázar is a must-see. See the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Toledo and the oldest standing synagogue in Europe, Santa Maria la Blanca. Visit the EL Greco Museum to learn about the great Spanish Renaissance artist El Greco who was granted artistic sanctuary in Toledo. 

Toledo also has a long history of creating prized forged steel throughout history and continues to produce swords and armour, including for Hollywood productions. Take a tour of the steel forge for a very different view of Toledo’s history. 

Don’t Miss : Enjoy the traditional Marzipan sweets invented by the nuns of Toledo around 1150. You can find them in local stores or buy them directly from the convents where nuns still make them. Try the Monasterio de San Clemente or Monasterio de Mochas Comemdadoras de Santiago. 

Tour Tip : The full-day  Toledo and El Escorial tour from Madrid  includes two historic sites in one day, visiting all the major attractions, and a demonstration of the famous damascened technique – the inlaying of precious metals in steel and the forging of swords.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. from Plaza Eliptica bus station. You will need to get the metro to the bus station from Madrid.
• Train:  30 minutes to 1 hr, depending on the service. Trains depart from Atocha Station in Madrid. The Toledo train station is outside the historic centre. You can take a bus (number 5, 61, or 62), a taxi, or a leisurely 25-minute walk to the historic centre.  
• Car:  Approx. 1 hr from central Madrid.

La Mancha 

1.40 hrs driving or bus 2.5 hrs  |  132 km to Consuegra | Historical Route, wine region, natural heritage

La Mancha is the stunning wine region in central Spain that provided the setting for the adventures of the famous 17th century literary hero  Don Quixote of La Mancha  by Cervantes.

Spain’s most prominent wine region and one of the largest wine-producing regions in the world, La Mancha, is where hundreds of wineries thrive, using traditional winemaking methods, despite challenging growing conditions.

Follow the steps of Don Quixote along the Castilla-La Mancha windmills route. The route takes you through several towns, including Consuegra in the heart of Castilla–La Mancha, where you will find 12 of the original windmills dating back to the 16th century. Most have been restored and are open to the public. The parking area close to the last windmill offers the best views over the hill.

Campo de Criptana sets the scene for chapter eight of  Don Quixote –  “At this point, they caught sight of thirty or forty windmills which were standing on the plain…”. There is a charming restaurant with a view of the windmills where you can try local specialities like the famous Manchega cheese . 

If You Can : Visit La Mancha in October when the fields around Consuegra turn purple thanks to the dainty crocus flowers that provide the precious saffron. Consuegra’s Saffron Festival celebrates the cultivation of saffron in late October.

Tip : It is possible to make a combined Toledo and Consuegra day trip from Madrid. Or, if you have time, stay in Toledo and continue to Consuegra the next day.

How to get to Consuegra from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 2.5 hrs from Madrid or 1.5 hrs from Toledo.
• Train:  There are no train services to Consuegra. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.40 hrs from central Madrid.

Royal Palace of Aranjuez

45 minutes | 48 km | UNESCO Site, Royal Palace and Nature

Aranjuez is one of the most accessible day trips from Madrid, which you can  combine with a visit to Toledo  if you are short on time. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape, the city of Aranjuez, boasts some of the most spectacular heritage in Spain. 

The highlight of the charming city on the banks of the Tagus River is the 16th-century Royal Palace of Aranjuez and its spectacular royal gardens. The royal residence served as a country escape for kings and queens. The complex displays the wide variety of styles of the monarchs that continued the enhancement of the property over the centuries.

Some of the palace’s highlights are the Chapel Royal by Sabatini and the opulent Throne Room. Don’t miss the dazzling display of ornate Buen Retiro porcelain plaques depicting Chinese scenes in the Porcelain Room. The Chinese Room has over 200 delicate paintings on rice paper, a gift to Queen Isabella II from the Emperor of China.

The magnificently intricate Arab Cabinet was modelled on the Sala de Dos Hermanas of the Alhambra in Granada, built in the mid-1800s as a private smoking room for the consort Don Francisco de Asis. 

Initially established as a royal hunting lodge, the palace boasts over 100 acres of magnificently ornate gardens and woodlands filled with ancient trees and exotic plants tracing the Tagus. 

How to Get to Aranjuez

• Bus:  Approximately 50 minutes. Buses leave from Estación Sur de Autobuses de Madrid.
• Train:  Approximately 45 minutes. Take The regular commuter C3 train from Madrid Atocha Cercanias. It is around a 10-minute walk to the palace. 
• The Strawberry Train:  Approx 50 minutes in spring and summer only. The Strawberry Express ( Tren de la Fresa ) is a highlight. The early 20th-century steam train with wooden carriages runs from the Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on several weekends from April to October. Hostesses in period costume hand out locally grown strawberries throughout the journey. 
• Car:  Approx. Fifty minutes from central Madrid.

1 hr driving or 30 minutes train | 91 Km | UNESCO City, Roman Aquaduct, Gothic Castle and Cathedral

While Segovia lays claim to the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Spain, it is just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in Segovia. 

Dating back to the 1st century AD,  the Segovia Aquaduct  is one of Spain’s most significant and well-preserved Roman structures. All of its 167 original arches remain intact. The structure carried water from a river 17 kilometres (11 mi) away to the city’s fountains, public baths and houses until 1973. 

UNESCO gave the historic centre of Segovia World Heritage status in 1985. Visit the Royal Museum of the Mint of Segovia and the magnificent Segovia Cathedral, one of the last built in Europe in the Gothic style. 

Explore the charming tangle of medieval streets and the Jewish Quarter, which has many significant sites, including the Museo de Segovia and the Old Major Synagogue, now the Convent of the Corpus Christi Order of St. Clare, a cloistered order.

A highlight of Segovia is the 13th-century fairytale-style Alcazar. Built by Alfonso VIII on top of a rock with commanding views of the Castilian countryside, the Alcázar of Segovia is a work of Gothic elegance. Possibly Spain’s most famous castle, it is believed the Segovia Alcazar was part of the inspiration for Disney’s iconic Cinderella Castle. 

Don’t Miss : Cochinillo Asado – roast suckling pig, a traditional dish of Segovia. The meat is so tender the side of a plate is used to slice it up. 

If you have time , the elegant Palacio Real la Granja is only 10 km from Segovia in the little town of San Ildefonso in the Sierra de Guadarrama.

How to get to Segovia from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1 hr. Buses leave for Segovia from Moncloa Station in the north of Madrid and arrive in the historical centre in Segovia, which is very convenient.
• Train:  Approximately 30 minutes on the high-speed AVE train from Chamartin station to Guiomar Station in Segovia. The high-speed station is 6km from the historic centre. You can take the bus to the centre or a taxi from the station.   

Tour Tip for Segovia : Take a  Combined Avila and Segovia Day Trip from Madrid  with Tickets to Monuments. Visit the picturesque cities of Segovia and Avila with entry and guided tours of the most iconic monuments in these UNESCO World Heritage cities.

Ávila

1.2 hours driving. 1.5 hrs train or bus | 109 km | UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its city walls and gastronomy

The gorgeous medieval World Heritage City of Ávila is as beautiful from afar as when exploring the narrow historic streets.

Also known as the Town of Stones and Saints, Avila’s walls and turrets are some of the best-preserved walls in Spain and some of the most complete in Europe. Once a military outpost, the strategic position led to the building of the Muralla de Ávila between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Tour tip : Maximise your time with a 2 hr Ávila old town private walking tour , including entrance to the walls.

Spanning 2.5km, nine entrances and defensive gates are within the walls and more than 80 watchtowers. It is a magnificent site visible from a great distance.

Inside the walls, explore the cobbled streets to discover its many significant sites, such as the cathedral. Considered to be Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, it also was fortified and is connected to the city walls. 

A dedicated 1700-metre walkway along the top of the walls is open to the public. Take a lofty walk to enjoy magnificent views inside the walls over the cathedral and the Plaza del Mercado Grande and outside over the surrounding countryside. 

Head to Cuatro Postes Viewpoint of Avila for the best views over the walled city. Especially at sunset when the wall lights up as the sun disappears. 

Throughout the year, the city holds special events such as Medieval Days, also called “The Market of Three Cultures” (Christian, Jewish and Arabic), on the first weekend in September. There will be traditional Easter rituals and parades in March or April, and during summer, you can enjoy theatrical shows on the walls in the evenings.  

Don’t Miss : Also known for its gastronomical heritage, Ávila is famous for its meat dishes, especially T-bone steaks. Enjoy a steak with beans from El Barco de Ávila, and Patatas Revolconas made with paprika and bacon. Yemas de Santa Teresa, a small round sweet made with egg yolks, lemon and cinnamon, is also very popular. Many restaurants in town will have a set menu,  Degust Ávila  lunch, where you can sample these local specialities. 

How to get to Avila from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1.5 hrs. Buses leave for Avila from Estación Sur (also called Mendez Alvaro Station, connected by Metro line 6). It is a 15-20 minute walk to the historical centre from the bus station in Avila. 
• Train:  Approximately 1.5 hrs from Príncipe Pío Station. Avila station is very close to the city walls – approx. 15-minute walk. There is also a city bus. Make sure you buy a return ticket, especially in the peak season (best bought in advance), as they can sell out, and you may get stuck. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.2 hrs from central Madrid.

1.30 hr from Madrid or 35 minutes from Segovia | 128 Km from Madrid – 40 km from Segovia | Best preserved medieval village

Pedraza is a great side trip to Segovia if you are driving . The medieval town is only 40 km northeast of Segovia.

Declared a Monumental Complex in 1951, Pedraza is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Spain. Surrounded by pristine landscapes, Pedraza offers exquisite culinary heritage, artisan bakers and shops offering products typical of the area. Pedraza is a taste of authentic Spanish culture and history.

Visit the Pedraza Castle and Zuloaga Museum, the Imperial Eagle House and the village jail.

Pedraza also hosts many festivals and events, such as the Candle Concerts on the first and second Saturday of July. Thousands of candles illuminate the entire town of Pedraza, and concerts are held in various parts of the town.

Pedraza is home to the annual Fiestas Patronales from September 7-12, which sees bulls run through the winding streets in honour of its patron saint, the Virgen del Carrascal.

How to get to Pedraza

• Car : Car is the best way to get to Pedraza, either 1.30hr from Madrid or 35 minutes from Segovia

Alcalá de Henares

45 minutes driving or 25 minutes by train | 41 km from Madrid | UNESCO World Heritage Site | Birthplace of Cervantes

Literary lovers can indulge in the  Spanish Golden Age  in the birthplace of the famed author of Don Quixote – Miguel de Cervantes. Alcalá is where some of Spain’s most renowned artists and writers studied between the 15th and 17th centuries. 

One of the easiest day trips from Madrid by train, the World Heritage-listed university town of Alcalá de Henares can be reached in under 30 minutes from Madrid.

The Cervantes Birthplace Museum is a must-visit to see where Miguel de Cervantes was born and raised. The museum transports visitors to daily life in 16th and 17th century Alcalá. It also includes a collection of furniture, ceramics and art from the period and an important library collection, including first editions.  

The small UNESCO city surrounds the prestigious university campus – one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1486 by Cardinal Cisneros. Highlights of the University are the Mudéjar chapel and the magnificent Paraninfo auditorium, where the Spanish King and Queen award the prestigious  Miguel de Cervantes Prize. The literary prize honours the lifetime achievement of an outstanding writer in the Spanish language on the anniversary of the death of Cervantes – April 23. 

It is also at the University of Alcalá where Christopher Columbus first met King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel to discuss his plans for his voyage of discovery.

Worthwhile events throughout the year include the  Classical Theatre Festival  in summer, the  Mercado Cervantino  in early autumn when the streets are full of markets and activities in 17th-century style and the famous  Christmas lights in December .

Don’t Miss : Alcalá is famous for its generous and delicious tapas, served in most bars when you order a drink. Try the artisanal sweets and pastries made in the city’s convents – Convento de San Diego is a favourite for candied almonds. 

Tour Recommendations

• Half Day Alcalá de Henares & Cervantes Museum Day Trip from Madrid – 5 hours. Includes transport, guides and tickets.
• Private Walking Tour of the Historic Alcalá de Henares – 1.5 hrs

How to get to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 45 minutes. From Avenida de América station in Madrid, the 223, 227 and 229 bus routes and the N202 (night bus) all go to Alcalá.
• Train:  Approximately 25 minutes on Madrid’s Cercanias train lines. 
• Car:  Approx. 45 minutes from central Madrid.

2.20 hrs driving or 1.40 hrs by high-speed train | 214 km from Madrid | Vibrant UNESCO city | Historic University 

The city of two cathedrals, Salamanca is considered one of the most beautiful world heritage cities in Spain. 

While a very historic city, the university, the oldest in the Hispanic world and one of the oldest in continuous operation, continues to give Salamanca youthful energy. The city is a treasure trove of historical buildings and fascinating finds. 

Stop for coffee or an afternoon drink at the beautiful Plaza Mayor and enjoy the endless parade of people, perhaps from the hundred-year-old Café Novelty. You may even be treated to a show in the magnificent plaza in the evening, especially in the summer. 

Explore the intriguing features of the city’s most famous historical buildings, such as Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells). The building is adorned with thousands of shells placed there as a token of the marriage between two noble families. Legend says there is treasure beneath one of the shells. 

At the two cathedrals of Salamanca, you will find people searching for other curious icons. In the Cathedral door, you can see carved figures of an astronaut, a monkey eating ice cream and a stork. At the university, for centuries, a secret frog carved in the gothic facade is believed to determine the success of a student’s studies based on whether you can find it. 

If You Have Time : If you can manage a night in Salamanca (which we wholly recommend), it is breathtaking at night, and there is no shortage of nightlife and great places to eat. 

Head to Calle Van Dyck in the north of the city for a good selection of bars and cheap and cheerful tapas places. The street will be very lively from around 9 pm.

Don’t Miss : Hornazo. A typical pie of Salamanca and Avila that is easily eaten by hand – Pastry filled with pork loin, spicy chorizo, and hard-boiled eggs.

• Tour of Avila & Salamanca from Madrid – 11 hrs. Tour both cities with transportation, guides and entry to Salamanca Cathedral.
• Monuments and Landmarks Guided Walking Tour – 2-2.5 hrs
• Salamanca Like a Local. Customized Private Tour – starting at 2 hrs

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 3 hrs. Avanza and Alsa both operate bus services between Madrid and Salamanca. 
• Train:  Approximately 1.40 hrs. There are numerous daily services, with the fastest AVE train being 1.40 hr. Some services will be 2.20 hrs. 
• Car:  Approx. 2.20 hrs from central Madrid.

1.50 hours driving or less than an hour by fast train | 170 km | UNESCO Medieval city with fascinating houses 

One of Spain’s best-kept secrets, visitors, often bypass Cuenca in favour of Toledo or Segovia. The UNESCO-listed city is worth at least a day trip from Madrid. 

Less than two hours from Madrid, in the mountains of east-central Spain in the Castile-La Mancha region, the town’s highlight is the attention-grabbing hanging houses of Cuenca “ Casas Colgadas .” Perched on a limestone spur, they cling precariously to the cliff’s edge, appearing to hover over the Huécar gorge. 

Explore the steep cobbled streets of the World Heritage walled town to discover medieval castle ruins, Plaza Mayor, the Mangana Tower, the secret underground tunnels of Alfonso VIII and the Cuenca Cathedral.

There are museums to discover Cuenca’s past and culture, such as the Semana Santa Museum. But there is also a very modern side to the historic town – restaurants, hotels and landmark buildings creatively restored to reveal strikingly modern interiors, such as the Spanish Museum of Abstract Arts, housed in one of the iconic hanging houses, and the Castilla-La Mancha Science Museum.

Another important landmark and the best viewing point for the Hanging Houses is the San Paolo Bridge. The original stone bridge over the Huécar River dates back to the 16th century, connecting the town with the San Pablo convent. The original stone bridge collapsed but was rebuilt in 1902 in iron and wood. The 40-meter-high bridge may not be for those with a fear of heights, but it does offer the best photo opportunities of the unique historic town. 

Must Try : Hit up the local Castilian-style restaurants to try  Morteruelo , a paté style dish originating from Cuenca,  Ajoarriero  a cod and potato dish usually served as a starter, and the local liqueur  resolí , traditionally served with  alajú,  a typical cake from Cuenca of spices, nuts and honey wedged between two wafers. 

• Day Trip to Cuenca and The Enchanted City from Madrid – 11 hrs Cuenca and the Enchanted City including Devil’s Window. Includes guide, transport and tickets to the Enchanted City.
• Cuenca Medieval Old Town Guided Tour – 2 Hrs

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 2 hrs from Madrid  Estación Sur de Autobuses . The bus station in Cuenca is close to the historic centre. 
• Train:  Some high-speed train services take less than an hour between Atocha Station in Madrid and Cuenca. Cuenca’s high-speed railway station is the “Fernando Zobel”, about 6 kilometres from the city centre, which is connected by bus and taxi. The Cuenca rail station, closer to town, is serviced by regional trains. 
• Car:  Approx. 1.50 hrs from central Madrid.

Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains

50 minutes driving or 2+hrs by train | 70 km | National Park, historic towns and Ski Resort

Less than an hour’s drive north of Madrid is the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range in the eastern part of the Sistema Central that separates the autonomous regions of Madrid and Castilla León.

It is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid for the diversity of experiences, whether you enjoy hiking, nature, sports or exploring historic towns. 

The Sierra de Guadarrama National Park covers 33,960 hectares reaching altitudes of 2,428 metres at its highest point, the  Peak of Peñalara .

The national park offers visitors a magnificent diversity of terrains to explore, including vast pine forests, smaller Pyrenean oak forests, mountain grasslands, snow-covered landscapes, rocky areas, and seasonal streams, waterfalls and natural swimming areas. 

Skiing in Sierra de Guadarrama

There are two ski resorts in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range – Valdesquí  and  Puerto de Nevacerrada . 

Valdesquí, near the town of Rascafría, has 22 km of marked pistes, making it one of the most significant ski areas of the Sistema Central chain.

The Puerto de Navacerrada is the closest ski resort to Madrid, with 10 km of protected pistes set among picturesque pine forests. It is divided into intermediate/advanced in the upper area and intermediate/beginners’ pistes in the lower.

• Day Trip to Guadarrama National Park from Madrid – 10 hrs. Includes transport, guide and walking tour inside Guadarrama National Park.
• Horse Riding in Sierra del Guadarrama National Park from Madrid – 2.5 hrs. Transportation, guide and all equipment.

How to get to Sierra de Guadarrama from Madrid

• Bus:  Approximately 1.50 hrs from Madrid Moncloa, finishing at Ctra. M601 – Club Alpino Espanol.
• Train:  Approximately 1.40 – 2 hrs. Take the train from the Atocha station in Madrid to Cercedilla on line C88. Then take another train to the Puerto de Navacerrada ski station. 
• Car:  Approx. 50 minutes from central Madrid.

Madrid’s Wine Country

The region of Madrid has some of the most celebrated wineries in the world. An incredible winemaking history in the Madrid wine country dates back over a century. The area is particularly famous for its Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes.

East of Madrid, you will find Arganda , the largest subregion with more than 50% of Madrid’s vineyards and 60 % of its total production. In the southwest, Navalcarnero produces 15% of its wine. In the west of Madrid, you can experience the highest-altitude vineyards of San Martin .

There are plenty of opportunities for wine-tasting tours, many incorporating visits to some of the biggest attractions close to Madrid.

• Madrid Region 3 Winery Guided Tour and Tastings – 6 Hours
• Ribera del Duero Tour of 3 Different Wineries – 11 hours
• Toledo Tour with Wine Tasting and 7 Monuments – 9 hours
• Small Group Countryside Wineries Guided Tour and Tasting – 6 hours

Other Day Trips from Madrid

There is so much to do in Valencia , I believe you should spend at least a few days. However, making a day trip to Valencia from Madrid is possible. Valencia is 3 hr 50 min (359.8 km) by car. However, the high-speed train service can take as little as 1.40 hr, which makes a day trip to Valencia, the birthplace of paella, very achievable.

Tour Recommendation : 4-Day Valencia and Barcelona tour from Madrid . If you want to visit all of Spain’s big cities and see all the highlights (returning with a stop in Zaragoza), take an all-inclusive four-day tour from Madrid with accommodation, daily breakfasts, comfortable transportation, and high-speed AVE tickets between cities. See here for full tour details .

Again, Barcelona is a trip in its own right. However, a day trip to Barcelona is achievable on the AVE high-speed train. The fastest train service is around 2.30 hrs. Perhaps at least a night is recommended.

Córdoba

Córdoba is a city in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia, home to the largest old town in Spain and the only city in the world to have four Unesco-protected sites. The city is known for its beautiful 8th-century Mezquita (Mosque turned cathedral), the charming Alcázar, ruins of Arab baths, and a gorgeous tangle of streets in the old Judería (Jewish Quarter). 

One of the most popular day trips from Seville , it is possible to make a day trip to Córdoba from Madrid on the high-speed train. Some train services are as little as 1.45hr.

Much like Barcelona, there is so much to do in Seville , a day trip would not do it justice. However, if you only had a day, the fastest high-speed train between Madrid and Seville is around 2.30 hrs making a day trip from Madrid to Seville possible.

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Home / Blog / Destination / Spain / Madrid / 15 Best Day Trips from Madrid: Ávila, Cuenca, Segovia, & More

15 Best Day Trips from Madrid: Ávila, Cuenca, Segovia, & More

As much as we love Madrid, sometimes a change of scenery is nice. Luckily, Madrid is located right in the center of Spain. From there, it boasts easy public transportation connections to all corners of the country. In short: when it comes to day trips from Madrid, you’re spoiled for choice.

The beauty of Spain is unquestionably its regionality. From the passionate, duende -driven south to the rugged Atlantic terrain of the north, the food , culture, and even occasionally languages vary from one Spanish region to the next.

With this in mind, the great thing about Madrid is that you have all of that at your fingertips. These day trips from Madrid make it easy to experience all that Spain has to offer. You’ll even get back in plenty of time for an evening tapas crawl here in the capital.

Most popular day trips from Madrid

Widely considered the best day trips from Madrid, these five popular destinations should of course be at the top of your list!

Fun fact: Madrid wasn’t always the capital of Spain! With its stunning (and strategic) panoramic views, the small but powerful hilltop city of Toledo  had the honor until 1560.

It won’t take you long to see why this city is one of the best day trips from Madrid. Wander the winding streets of this charming historical city where Christians, Muslims and Jews all co-existed harmoniously for centuries. Take a gander at artisan sword craftsmanship, visit the 15th-century Gothic cathedral, and climb up to the ancient Alcázar for incredible views.

After a day of sightseeing, be sure to try Toledo’s famous marzipan. Many consider Toledo to be the birthplace of this almond-based sweet—legend says it was created here during the time of Moorish rule—but different versions of the story persist. No matter which version you believe, it’s still a must-try typical treat while you’re here!

How to get to Toledo from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (half an hour) or the Alsa bus from the Plaza Elíptica station (one hour).

It only takes an hour to get to Segovia; however, it feels worlds away from busy Madrid. At the end of the Middle Ages, the city—which was an important center for trade—experienced something of a golden age.

The impressive Segovia cathedral is one of several works of breathtaking Gothic architecture that were completed during this period. Another noteworthy attraction is its incredibly preserved Roman aqueduct (which has towered over the city for nearly 2,000 years!). The city’s magical castle is said to be the inspiration for some of those seen in Disney movies.

But Segovia is one of our favorite day trips from Madrid for another reason altogether: the famous roast suckling pig, or cochinillo asado . The meat is unbelievably tender and flavorful, and pairs beautifully with a glass of local Bierzo wine. To top off your lunch, stroll the cobblestone streets in search of the typical dessert from Segovia,  ponche segoviano .

How to get to Segovia from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (25–30 minutes) or the Avanza bus from the Moncloa station (one hour and 20 minutes).

El Escorial

Nestled in the Guadarrama mountains northwest of Madrid is a small village that’s home to a giant royal complex.

The  Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial , simply referred to as El Escorial, dates back to the 16th century. The complex includes a royal palace, a monastery, a school, a basilica and a Royal Pantheon, and moreover is one of the several historical residences of the King of Spain. For that reason, it’s no wonder why half a million visitors descend on the small town from Madrid every year!

How to get to El Escorial from Madrid : Take bus 661 or 664 from the Moncloa station (one hour).

History buffs, this one’s for you.

Ávila is without a doubt one of the most enchanting 16th-century towns in Spain. It’s surrounded by ancient city walls, some of the best preserved and most complete of their kind in the country. Climb to the top and enjoy the captivating views of the quaint town below.

As if the vibrant village wasn’t enough, Ávila is set against the gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills. When you work up an appetite from exploring, dig into typical dishes like the famous local steak ( chuletón de Ávila ). Save room for some yemas de Ávila , traditional sweets made of candied egg yolk and sugar.

How to get to Ávila from Madrid : Take the train from Principe Pio (one hour and 40 minutes). Another option is the Jiménez Dorado bus from Estación Sur (one hour and 20 minutes).

A stunning medieval gem of a city with UNESCO World Heritage status, Cuenca lures hundreds of thousands of curious travelers every year. As one of the most popular Madrid excursions, its biggest draws are the casas colgadas —gravity-defying “hanging houses” perched perilously on the edge of a cliff above a gorge.

In addition to the dramatic architecture and landscapes, Cuenca also boasts a beautifully preserved historic center bursting with colorful houses. It’s also home to an impressive number of worthwhile museums for such a small city. If you have time, the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the city are also great for hiking.

How to get to Cuenca from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (one hour) or the Avanza bus from Estación Sur (two hours and 10 minutes).

Unique Day Trips from Madrid

Already checked all of the above destinations off your list—or looking for something a bit more off the beaten path? Give one of these lesser-known (yet still worthwhile!) Madrid excursions a try.

Chinchón is a magical place where life moves slowly. You’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you roam around this little town.

The small city attracts visitors for its unique oval-shaped  plaza mayor  and the well preserved 18th-century buildings that surround it. It’s even got a surprisingly famous local product: anise liqueur, best enjoyed on a sunny terrace.

Anise is available in sweet as well as dry varieties. It pairs especially well with any of the local pastries from the many bakeries that are scattered throughout the center.

How to get to Chinchón from Madrid : Take bus line 337 from the Conde de Casal bus stop to Chinchón (45 minutes).

You generally don’t need much prior planning to make an Aranjuez excursion happen. Just hop on the train straightaway and enjoy this enchanting town that’s home to the royal family’s former summer palace!

In addition to touring the beautiful palace, the 150 acres of gardens—designed in the style of Versailles—are ideal for relaxing afternoon strolls. The town itself is also well worth exploring, with its well-manicured wide avenues and sprawling plazas.

How to get to Aranjuez from Madrid : Take the C3 Cercanías (commuter train) line from Sol or Atocha (45–50 minutes), or the Samar bus from the Méndez Álvaro station (35–45 minutes).

Throughout the summer and fall, you can also take the  Strawberry Train  to Aranjuez. This restored wooden train lets you experience what train travel was like in the 19th century while sampling one of Aranjuez’s most famous delicacies: strawberries!

No worries if you can’t board this classic locomotive—you can find asparagus (another beloved local product) and strawberry creations on any  menú del día  in town. 

Ribera del Duero Wine Region

D.O. Ribera del Duero wines stand alongside their counterparts in Rioja as some of the best-known Spanish wines , particularly for reds. The region is rather easily accessible from the capital, making it a can’t-miss day trip from Madrid for wine aficionados.

Firstly, stop for a bite in Aranda de Duero, the region’s largest town, and from there take your pick from among the dozens of surrounding wineries. The idyllic country landscapes—not to mention the chance to taste some of Spain’s best wine straight from the source—make for a positively dreamy escape.

How to get to the Ribera wine region from Madrid : This excursion is overwhelmingly easier by car. Take the M30 highway out of the city to the A1, and from there it’s a straight shot north (one hour and 40 minutes).

Cercedilla & the Guadarrama Mountains

Want to get out and about in nature? This is the trip for you, without a doubt.

Cercedilla and the surrounding Sierra de Guadarrama are home to some of the best hiking trails in the Community of Madrid. As you explore, you’ll come across dozens of viewpoints ( miradores ) offering stunning vistas of the Fuenfría Valley down below. If you don’t feel like an active hike but still want to enjoy the fresh air, the Las Berceas leisure park is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon.

The quiet mountain town of Cercedilla itself is small but impressive, and well worth an hour or two of exploring even if you came mainly to hike. Ancient Roman roads and bridges crisscross the area, and the village is dotted with centuries-old buildings constructed in an architectural style unique to the mountainous areas of the Community of Madrid that’s especially hard to find these days.

How to get to Cercedilla from Madrid : Take the C2 cercanías line from Atocha (one hour and 20 minutes) or bus line 684 from Moncloa (one hour).

Alcalá de Henares

Alcalá de Henares is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Particularly known as the birthplace of legendary Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes (author of Don Quixote ), the city is full of history at every turn.

Walk along the charming streets and visit Cervantes’ house and the Church of Santa María, where he was baptized in 1547. The local university, which is one of the oldest in the world, is a global leader in the study of Cervantes and his work.

Despite the city’s small size, there’s always a lot going on. The main plaza alone hosts dozens of events throughout the year, such as a medieval festival every October. But beyond the monuments and history, Alcalá de Henares is also home to something truly amazing—free tapas! With every drink you order, you’ll have your pick from a selection of tapas to enjoy with it.

How to get to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid : Take the C2 or C7 cercanías lines from Atocha (40 minutes).

Consuegra & the Don Quixote Windmills

Live the legend of the Man from La Mancha himself in Consuegra, home to the massive whitewashed windmills that have become one of the most lasting images of the Spanish landscape.

The 12 windmills—five of which have conserved their original mechanism—sit on a rolling hillside just outside the town of Consuegra itself, with a rather solemn castle dating back to the Moorish days perched nearby. None of them still serve their original function, but a handful now have been repurposed—one houses an ice cream parlor, and another the local tourist information center.

This is a particularly beautiful area to visit in the fall, when the surrounding fields turn a beautiful purple color as the saffron flowers come into bloom.

How to get to Consuegra from Madrid : Take the InterBus bus from Estación Sur (two hours and 20 minutes). Driving down the A42 and CM42 highways is much faster (one hour and 30 minutes).

Day Trips from Madrid by High Speed Train

Even more stunning Spanish destinations lie a bit further afield. Luckily, the high-speed AVE and Avant trains make day trips from Madrid to these cities especially quick and easy.

While it’s technically possible, we don’t recommend Barcelona or Seville as a one-day excursion from Madrid. Both simply have too much to see and warrant at least a few days each.

Come to Valencia for the paella ; stay for the whimsical architecture and laid-back vibes

Spain’s third-largest city is a sunny gem of a destination on the eastern Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula. You could easily spend an entire day exploring its futuristic City of Arts & Sciences complex, but it has much more to offer as well. The lively old town is full of character, and foodies won’t want to miss the impressive Mercado Central—one of the largest fresh food markets in all of Europe.

How to get to Valencia from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (one hour and 40 minutes).

The breathtakingly historic city of Salamanca has a lot to offer. It’s home to one of Europe’s oldest and most acclaimed universities, an ornate Plaza Mayor, and not one but two extraordinary cathedrals—just to name a few.

Everything about Salamanca captures Castilla at its most classic: from the stately historic architecture to the pure variety of Spanish spoken here (often said to be one of the easiest dialects to understand). It’s also a particularly great city for foodies—the local market is packed with fresh regional products, and the thriving tapas scene is one of the best in the area.

How to get to Salamanca from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Chamartín (one hour and 40 minutes).

If a trip to sunny, passionate Andalusia is calling your name, you’re in luck. Córdoba is a quick train ride south from Madrid and offers countless possibilities for things to see, do, and eat .

Home to a world-record four UNESCO World Heritage sites , Córdoba is a small yet thriving city with history around every turn. The stunning Mezquita-Catedral is something you have to see to believe (an entire Renaissance cathedral built inside a massive eighth-century mosque!), and immaculately preserved Roman structures are scattered throughout the city as well.

Córdoba is especially striking in the springtime, when the city comes alive with bright flowers blooming to life. If you happen to be in Spain during the first half of May, you won’t want to miss the colorful floral patios festival—a rare chance to see the private inner courtyards of local homes at their most beautiful.

How to get to Córdoba from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (one hour and 45 minutes).

Whether as a day trip from Madrid or a stopover on the way up to Barcelona, Zaragoza is well worth your time.

As one of Spain’s most underrated cities, Zaragoza offers a wealth of fascinating culture and history. It’s an art lover’s dream, packed with works by Goya (who is from the area) and full of stunning architecture as well. And no matter how many Spanish churches and cathedrals you’ve seen, the stately Basílica de Nuesta Señora del Pilar with its multiple domes and pillars will be unlike any other.

How to get to Zaragoza from Madrid : Take the high-speed train from Atocha (one hour and 15 minutes).

Day trips from Madrid FAQs

You can’t go wrong with any of these day trips from Madrid, as each offers something fascinating yet totally unique. However, when it comes to travel convenience, proximity, and things to see and do (and eat!), Toledo checks all the boxes.

We recommend two days at the very least. 48 hours in Madrid gives you time to see all the major sights, including at least one of the famous museums, and even explore a bit off the beaten path. However, three to four days is ideal, as it will give you more time to discover more hidden gems in the city and take a day trip.

Both cities are excellent, and you can’t go wrong either way. Toledo is larger and has more to see and do, but depending on your travel style, you may find it hard to fit everything you want to experience into one day. It’s also a more popular option, so expect more crowds of tourists. Segovia is a smaller, quieter city and still gets plenty of visitors, though not as many as Toledo. It is easier to explore in one day, but this may be a drawback depending on how much time you want to spend outside Madrid.

In addition to having plenty to see and do within the city limits, Madrid’s surroundings are also full of worthwhile sights. Highlights include the home of famed Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes in Alcalá de Henares (40 minutes away), the stately royal palace of Aranjuez and its gorgeously manicured gardens (45 minutes away), and the massive monastery complex at El Escorial (one hour away).

Valencia is an hour and 40 minutes away from Madrid on the high-speed train, and about three hours and 45 minutes by car.

Small Group Toledo Day Trip from Madrid with Winery Tour

Madrid Tapas & Flamenco Tour

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18 Best Day Trips From Madrid in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Madrid is the glitzy yet industrial Spanish capital. Cutting edge and modern, yet famed for being the royal residence of the Spanish Royal Family, it is a city with one foot in the past and traditional and the other leaping forward with modern developments and forward-thinking attitudes. There are many things to do in Madrid; it is one of the  best cities to visit in Spain.  

Don’t let that dissuade you from the fabulous Madrid day trips on offer, though. This major city is surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage sites and even the castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. A day trip from Madrid is one of the best ways to better understand Spanish culture and harness a new admiration of the country while enjoying a Madrid city break. This guide will cover the best day trips from Madrid, inspiring you on amazing one-day trip experiences.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips From Madrid

We love Spain , and we’ve already compiled a  Spain travel guide  that you can use to plan the Spanish holiday of a lifetime. But for Madrid specifics, this guide is your bread and butter for the best day trips from Madrid. Weekend trips are great, but you don’t need a weekend trip to enjoy these top destinations near Madrid – with just one day, you could be heading to a UNESCO World Heritage Site or a stunning mountain range. Draw away from Madrid’s Plaza Mayor and enjoy one or more of these top 18 day trips from Madrid.

Planning Your Trip To Madrid Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours for Day Trips from Madrid. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Spain!

Top Day Trips and Tours from Madrid:

• From Madrid: Toledo & Segovia with Optional Ávila Tour (Most Popular)
• Madrid: Day Trip to Cuenca and The Enchanted City (Do Not Miss)
• Madrid Region Wineries: Guided Tour and Tasting s (Likely to Sell Out)
• From Madrid: Day Trip to Ávila and Salamanca w/ Guided Tour (Best Deal)
• From Madrid: Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer (Our Favorite)

1. Valencia

If you look at Google Maps, Valencia might look like an ambitious day trip from Madrid. It is one of the most convenient mid-length day trips from Madrid. This is thanks to the high-speed train network that connects the two, meaning you can be in Valencia in as little as 2 hours. Easy.

Valencia is the capital of Spain’s Valencia region and, in fact, was once the Spanish capital. While it suffered heavy damage during the Spanish Civil War, it remains one of the prettiest and most historic places to visit in Spain for a city break. With a day to enjoy the city, you should see the cathedral (climb to the bell tower), grab food at the Central Market, and admire the Carmen Street Art. There’s a lot to see, so plan your itinerary before departing. Luckily, Valencia is highly walkable.

• Distance from Madrid: 2 hours by train

2. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is a beautiful day trip destination from the 18th century. Just an hour away from Madrid’s city center by public transportation, it is one of the easiest yet most rewarding day trips from Madrid. The Spanish Royal Family still visits this royal site, usually for state ceremonies. While it is no longer an official royal residence, visitors can tour its interior on set days. The Royal Palace is stunning and set within over 100 hectares of manicured gardens. Its beauty is well-celebrated, and you won’t be surprised to hear it holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Visiting the Royal Palace of Aranjuez is a fabulous thing to do. Because it is so close to the capital city, you can spend hours exploring the grounds without thinking about rushing back. Jump on a guided tour here .

Distance from Madrid: 1 hour by bus

Cuenca is a stunning little city and one of the most amazing day trips from Madrid. It is famed for its ‘Hanging Houses’, aka ‘Casa Colgadas de Cuenca’. These Hanging Houses are centuries old and hang off the edge of a cliff face, suspended above a gorge. The Hanging Houses have wooden balconies and are ridiculously photogenic. For traditional architecture with a novelty twist, they are brilliant to visit. Aside from the Hanging Houses, Cuenca also has the San Pablo Bridge, the Spanish Abstract Art Museum, and the Cuenca Cathedral. It is a walkable city and the perfect sightseeing day trip from Madrid.

Madrid to Cuenca is one of the easiest and quickest train trips, taking just an hour. Catching the train is much faster, so we recommend avoiding driving to Cuenca. The old town is super compact, too, so you’ll easily explore on foot.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour by train

Avila is the capital of its province and is set scenically within medieval city walls. With 80 towers and lengthy sections of walkable walls, it is beautiful to visit and admire the old town’s medieval layout. It gets even more beautiful at night as the city walls are lit up. It is one of the best day trips from Madrid if you want somewhere with a really magical atmosphere. The drive is reasonable, taking over an hour. And you can detour through one of two regional parks.

We suggest hitting Avila mid-afternoon so that you can wander the walls and enjoy the scenery after dark. The journey takes hardly any time when driving. You can take as long as you’d like because you aren’t limited to a public transportation schedule. For us, Avila has that magical, Disney-style atmosphere. Its city walls and ancient architecture make it so popular amongst other visitors.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Toledo is nicknamed the city of ‘three cultures’. This couldn’t be more accurate, as the ancient city was formed with Christian, Jewish, and Arab influences, and you can still see traces of each throughout the compact city center. Toledo dates back to the Middle Ages, and it is no wonder it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considering all its history and remaining architecture. You can stop by the Jewish Quarter, close to its stunning Gothic cathedral, or visit the El Greco Museum. There are many  things to do in Toledo  – including visiting the beautiful Toledo Cathedral.

Just one hour away from Madrid by car or 35 minutes by train, Toledo is one of the best day trips from Madrid if you want an easy journey. It is popular because of its proximity to Madrid and fascinating blend of three cultural influences. History buffs will love this day trip destination, and we just had to add it because of all its history.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour by car or 35 minutes by train

6. Salamanca

Salamanca is easily one of the best day trips from Madrid, so what exactly earns that grand title? Well, firstly the city has tons of Celtic history. Secondly, it has been part of the intellectual movement in Spain since the 15th century. The University of Salamanca is one of Spain’s oldest universities and was founded in the 1100s. Today, it gives the city a ‘university town’ feel, with friendly and sociable vibes. The University of Salamanca attracts plenty of Spanish and international students.

As a day trip from Madrid, Salamanca is just one of those Spanish cities that welcomes you with open arms. It has a beautiful historic center with attractions like Casa de las Conchas – a beautiful 16th-century Gothic building covered in seashells that is used for exhibitions. However, it also has an easygoing café culture and also great nightlife. Its riverside location is also beautiful, and there are many attractions to enjoy mooching around. If you want one of the least daunting day trips from Madrid, Salamanca is one of the most ‘gentle’ day trips to break your teeth on.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour and 40 minutes by direct train

7. Colmenar Viejo

Colmenar Viejo is one of the most religious day trips you can take from Madrid. It is a brilliant day trip choice if you are intrigued by religious history. There’s a stunning 15th or 16th century-built basilica called the Basilica de la Asuncion de Nuestra Senora. To visit an actual Spanish hermitage, you can visit Ermita de Nuestra Senora de los Remedios, which dates back to the 7th century. Colmenar Viejo is somewhere most people overlook, and it is predominantly surrounded by cattle farms – even running a traditional cattle migration festival at the start of the year. However, it offers raw and unique insight into rural Spanish culture. For those who want to dig deeper than superficial tourist attractions, it is one of the best day trips from Madrid.

Getting to Colmenar Viejo is surprisingly a breeze. It is either a half-hour’s journey on the train or a 40-minute drive. The choice is yours.

Distance from Madrid: 30 minutes by train or 40 minutes by car

8. Manzanares el Real

Manzanares de Real is a stunning little town set in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, which we also mention as a day trip destination in this guide. The town is most famous for its beautiful Manzanares El Real Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. The castle is so eye-catching and a leading motivation for people to visit. It is decked out in numerous antique furnishings and has an onsite museum.

Aside from the castle, Manzanares de Real has a huge artificial lake that fishermen use for carp and pike fishing. There are also river beaches just outside its town center, making it one of the closest ‘beach’ destinations to Madrid. Just 50 minutes away by car, it is an absolute breeze to reach.

• Distance from Madrid: 50 minutes by car or 1.5 hours by public transport.

9. Siguenza

Many describe Siguenza as sleepy. Its centuries-old architecture has indeed fallen into retirement in many cases – its castle is now just a tourist attraction. However, despite its retired heritage sites and laidback atmosphere, we’d argue that Siguenza is anything but sleepy. The sheer scale of tourist attractions means you’ll have a full day of action if you choose this as one of your day trips from Madrid. You can also visit more active attractions outside the city center, like Barranco del Rio Dulce Natural Park, which has trails linking limestone rock formations and waterfalls.

Siguenza is out of the way but definitely worth a detour as a day trip destination. This is the perfect trip if you fancy beautiful architecture, refreshing waterfalls, and plenty of heritage sites.

• Distance from Madrid: 2 hours by train or 1.5 hours by car

10. Chinchon

Chinchon is a much more rural day trip from Madrid. Instead of a big city atmosphere, it is a small town set on a hilltop. Its attractions include museums like Museo Etnologico La Posada, which preserves traditional farming tools and techniques. So, if you fancy embracing Spanish countryside culture, a day trip from Madrid to Chinchon is perfect. Remember to visit the medieval square, Playa Mayor, too. The square is surrounded by traditional buildings with wooden balconies – a photogenic spot to enjoy a takeout coffee or cooling ice cream.

Chinchon is popular because it showcases a different pace of life. You just can’t get that same experience in metropolitan Madrid, so adding it to our guide was a no-brainer.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour by car or just over 1 hour by bus

11. El Alcazar

Are you ready for an adventure? Seville might not be one of the most classic day trips from Madrid, but it is definitely feasible. As an immediate disclaimer, this will involve around 6 hours of traveling. However, you’ll be sat on a direct train, where you can enjoy WiFi, bring books, and download movies ahead of time. Besides, many guided day trips have you on coaches all day, so what’s the difference? If you are up for the challenge, you should catch a 6 a.m. train to get to Seville nice and early.

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and is widely praised for being the most authentic place to experience Spanish culture. While there, you can enjoy things like El Alcazar – the Royal Alcazar of Spain – the beautiful Plaza de Espana, and dozens of museums ranging from modern art museums to niche history museums. It is easy to see why everyone loves Seville. And if you fancy a change from Madrid, it is a beautiful day trip destination.

• Distance from Madrid: Just under 3 hours by train

12. Caceres

Caceres is a longer distance from Madrid but is so aesthetic that it warrants the drive. In 3 hours, you’ll head west towards the Portuguese border and have arrived in the beautiful town of Caceres. It looks like something straight out of Game of Thrones or some medieval fantasy film, and its ancient old town has lingering Gothic and Renaissance architecture. You’ll be walking through cobbled streets and in the shadow of looming 12th-century city walls, where if you look carefully, you can spot nesting storks. The whole city is a ready-made film set, especially in the old town.

Caceres is easily one of Spain’s most historic cities. The extra journey time is worthwhile if you have multiple drivers on the rental car insurance. Set off early and leave as late as possible to maximize your day trip to Caceres.

• Distance from Madrid: 3 hours drive

13. Zaragoza

Zaragoza is Aragon’s capital and has over 2,000 years of history squeezed into its city center. Zaragoza is the perfect day trip for Roman history, with ruins that include forums, city walls, and an ancient theater. This is an ideal solution if you want a slice of Roman history without actually visiting Italy. We love how many Roman-related attractions you can see in such a small Zaragoza area; it feels like a fantastic way to broaden your sightseeing experience. As a side note, Zaragoza is also known to have delicious cuisine – and who doesn’t love tucking into Spanish food?

Zaragoza is just 1 and a half hour’s train ride from Madrid, much faster than the alternative driving time of over 3.5 hours. We suggest catching the train instead.

• Distance from Madrid: 1.5 hours by train

14. El Escorial

El Escorial is a stunning little town. It was primarily built for its monastery and royal palace. It is one of Spain’s most famous royal sites, with some small neighborhoods of residential areas around it. El Escorial’s Casita del Principe is ideal if you want an alternative to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez. It is a little quieter, a little less well-known, and is open to tourists on set days. You can admire manicured royal gardens and private antique displays of fine arts. It is one of the best day trips from Madrid for a royal day out.

Just an hour from Madrid by train or car, El Escorial is super easy to squeeze into a busy city break itinerary. It is a much-loved option for royal sightseeing for those in the know.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour by train or car

15. Ciudad Real

Beautiful Ciudad Real is a hotspot for literary history and architecture. You can wander the compact city’s streets easily on foot, admiring a 13th-century cathedral, Gothic churches, and 14th-century gates. And when you fancy more of a museum-style experience, there’s the Quixote Museum – dedicated to the novel Don Quixote, written by Miguel de Cervantes. Ciudad Real is a really varied day trip from Madrid. Still, it is especially suited to fans of Cervantes’ work, architecture, and history fans. For such a small city, it really packs a punch.

Ciudad Real is just an hour away from Madrid by train, so getting there is a breeze. The train is much quicker than driving (which takes 2.5 hours). Stick to the faster and more environmentally friendly option; you’ll be in Ciudad Real in no time.

16. Sierra de Guadarrama

Ready for a more natural day out? Sierra de Guadarrama is your answer. This mountain range is a beautiful day from Madrid, and you can reach the foothills in just an hour. Sierra de Guadarrama is most famous for hiking opportunities, but with that comes impressive photo opportunities. The mountain range is one hour from Madrid by car, so it is easy enough to be a full-day trip. You can also spot some incredible animals, including adorable mountain goats and iconic birds like vultures and multiple types of eagles.

Regarding day trips from Madrid, Sierra de Guadarrama is the best choice for a day of immersion in nature. It is one of the only day trips from Madrid where you can spot animals like vultures and mountain goats. For that reason, it is hugely popular and deserves a place on our list.

• Distance from Madrid: 1 hour drive

17. Alcalá de Henares

Alcalá de Henares is the perfect one day trip for anyone looking for noteworthy attractions related to academia and literature. The Cervantes Birthplace Museum is where the author of Don Quixote lived, and the King of Spain presents a literary prize in Alcalá de Henares every year. It is also seen as a university town despite its city status. The University of Alcalá is one of the most esteemed Spanish universities. It is in the city’s old town, set amongst a collection of 16th-century buildings.

You can reach Alcalá de Henares in just 40 minutes by train from the capital city. It is hugely popular as a day trip destination for academics and those with an interest in literature. And for us, it just offers a different view of Spain than Madrid’s more metropolis-style introduction.

• Distance from Madrid: 40 minutes by train

18. Segovia

Segovia is one for the history buffs. As a UNESCO-listed city, Segovia attracts the most attention from its Roman aqueducts. You can snap beautiful photos of the city, especially its main aqueduct, which has 160 arches. It is definitely worth visiting as one of your Madrid day trips. This city catches everyone’s eyes, us included. And between the medieval city walls, Romanesque churches, and the aqueduct, you can see why history lovers like Segovia so much.

Besides sightseeing, visitors should also check out the bizarre but beautiful Casa de los Picos. The 15th-century building is full of spikes – 617 to be precise. It is just one example of how Segovia is weird and wonderful. And if you like sightseeing, it really is heaven. Everything is super close together too, you won’t be more than a half hour’s walk between each attraction.

• Distance from Madrid: 50 minutes by public transport

Day Trips From Madrid: FAQs

Day trips from Madrid are among the best things you can indulge in on your city break. Some of these destinations are ideal for an overnight stay if you have the chance, but even just a day will open your mind to new experiences. Before you head off on your day trips from Madrid, though, check out these common FAQs.

What is the best day trip to take from Madrid?

The best day trip from Madrid is either the Royal Palace or Toledo. These day trips from Madrid offer a lot of history, and Toledo has UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Is it better to visit Toledo or Segovia?

Both destinations are great, but Toledo takes the edge. There is just more to see, and while Segovia has the Roman ruins, Toledo has that unique blend of Arab, Christian, and Jewish influence.

Where can you travel to from Madrid?

You can travel to hundreds of places from Madrid. You can access brilliant day trip destinations by hopping on a high-speed train or renting a car .

Can you do a day trip from Madrid to Valencia?

Yes, a day trip from Madrid to Valencia is easy. Just hop on the train, and you’ll be there in around 2 hours – plenty of time to leave you with a full day of exploring. 

One of the best things about day trips from Madrid is the public transport system; it makes day-tripping easy. You could discover the history of the Spanish Civil War or head to see the Hanging Houses, and there will likely be a high-speed train to get you there. Madrid is one of the easiest day-tripping cities, so make the most of it and maximize your city break with one or more of these trip ideas.

Looking for some more inspiration ahead of your trip to Spain? We’ve got a guide on the  best Spanish dishes  to try, so definitely check that out. Spanish food is notoriously delicious. Make sure you are clued up on the best dishes before heading to Madrid.

Plan Your Next Trip To Spain With These Resources

• The Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain
• 23 Interesting and Fun Facts About Spain
• 25 Of The Best Things to do in Marbella, Spain
• 26 Best Things to do in Granada, Spain
• 16 Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “18 Best Day Trips From Madrid in 2024”

I often have friends drop onto Madrid and to kill 2 birds with one stone do breakfast in Escorial including the visit to the Royal Monastery then do lunch in Segovia visiting the acueducto and walking through Segovia to the Alcazar .. all doable an back on Madrid for dinner ( Spanish time )

12 BEST Day Trips from Madrid, Spain

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking for the best day trips from Madrid? From exploring Toledo to seeing stunning Segovia, this is where to go near Madrid!

Madrid is a city steeped in historic art and awe-inspiring architecture. There’s so much to do and see – and eat, given that the local cuisine is world famous.

But even when there’s so much on offer, the best adventures in Spain often come from venturing a little bit further out. With so many amazing day trips from Madrid very close by, this city is a great base for seeing more of Spain. I’m talking landmarks, heritage sites, culture, art… Spain just has so much to see!

Also, these Madrid day trips are a fun and easy way to make the most of your travels. I’d highly recommend making some time on your itinerary to explore the area around Madrid as much as possible. These are some of the best tours around, all within a few short hours of Madrid. That means you can really make the most of your holiday.

Here, you’ll find some really diverse experiences. We’ll go from World Heritage Site cities like Toledo and Salamanca to the palaces of Aranjuez and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. And that’s before we get to the Puerto de Navacerrada Ski Resort and Madrid’s wine region.

I’ll give you a fair warning: wanderlust may be inspired.

While you’re in the city, then check out my food guide on what to eat in Madrid . I’ve also got city guides to Barcelona , Murcia , San Sebastian and Valencia if you’re heading to those places.

Best Day Trips from Madrid

A Madrid to Toledo day trip is one of the easiest you can do while you’re in the city.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Spanish capital, there’s a lot to see in Toledo. On a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, the views are incredible and the architecture insane.

A cool fact about Toledo is that it was once called ‘The City of Three Cultures’. That’s because historically, Christians, Muslims and Jews coexisted for centuries (mostly) in peace. So, Toledo brims with the history and heritage of each community.

I’d check out the Alcázar of Toledo , a looming castle and army museum. And the El Greco Museum, dedicated to the Greek painter who lived here for many years.

For me, this is one of the best day trips from Madrid. Also, it’s only an hour’s drive, or 30-60 minutes on the train from Atocha Station, so it’s very easy when travelling from the city centre. If you’re looking for a tour, then this is o n e of the best around .

Segovia is also a World Heritage Site. If you’ve visited, you’ll know why. Segovia is home to some of the most impressive historic architecture in the world. There’s just something about these old builds, and how long they’ve stood as the world changed around them, the makes you fall in love with the place.

Most notably, there’s the Aqueduct of Segovia. This is one of the longest surviving and best preserved aqueducts built by the Roman Empire. It’s one of the most impressive imprints of the Roman Empire’s legacy in Europe and is incredible to look at.

The Alcázar of Segovia and Catedral de Segovia – a gothic 16th century cathedral – are also awe-inspiring.

This is actually one of the best walled cities in Spain and it’s a place I really recommend to people travelling around the country.

The quickest route to Segovia is by train, though bus and car are also options. A full guided tour of Segovia from Madrid is a great way of exploring the local area.

Royal Palace of Aranjuez

When it comes to day trips in Madrid, this one is right up there with the best.

The name is fairly self explanatory of what you can expect here. But knowing it’s a royal palace doesn’t quite prepare you for the sense of grandeur this place holds.

It’s one of the most impressive royal palaces in Spain . I mean, it’s one of the only ones deemed a World Heritage Site. This is mostly because of the gardens.

These are proper palace gardens. There are 3: the Parterre Gardens, Island Gardens, and Princes Gardens.

All are worth exploring as well as the castle – which is basically like a gallery with how ornately each room is decorated. The gardens are the same, beautiful flowers and statues and fountains. You could get lost in them, especially the sprawling Princes Gardens.

The Medieval Fortress of Manzanares el Real

As far as Madrid day trips go, Manzanares el Real is probably one of the less frequented ones.

It’s weird because it’s such a gorgeous place to visit. It’s a small town nestled within the picturesque Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. The surrounding area is fantastic for walks and hikes.

But the most popular spot is the medieval fortress-castle, or the Castillo de los Mendoza . A 15th century building home to a courtyard, basement, as well as six storeys to explore. It really feels like exploring a different time.

Schedules for exhibitions and performances at the fortress are available here .

Puerto de Navacerrada Ski Resort

I feel like when I say ‘ski resort’, most people would assume I’m talking about somewhere like France or Switzerland. But did you know that you can ski in Spain too?

Puerto de Navacerrada is one of the most historic Spanish skiing resorts. In the winter, this is absolutely one of the best day trips from Madrid. Located in the mountains of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, winter sees these heights blanketed with thick snow.

There are a range of slopes available for all abilities. Don’t worry if you visit in the summer. While you can’t ski, the resort is perfect for hiking and you can still use the ski lift for mesmerising views.

Valley of the Fallen

The Valley of the Fallen is a monumental memorial and burial site. It’s located near San Lorenzo de El Escorial, north of Madrid. Now, a fair warning, this is a more sombre experience than the Madrid day trips I’ve mentioned so far.

The Valley of the Fallen was created as a mass grave and a memorial to the thousands killed in the Spanish Civil War. But it’s controversial; it was created by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco.

Through a fascist regime, Franco remained Spain’s ruler until his death in 1975. His remains were housed in the Valley. Many viewed it not as a memorial to those lost, but as a symbol of Franco’s abuse of power.

So, his body was exhumed and transported in 2019.

The Valley of the Fallen is a reminder of the decades of atrocity in Spain, as well as the sheer loss of life. It is a challenging, uncomfortable experience. But I think such experiences are a really important part of history – I’d encourage you to visit if you can.

If you’re looking for a weekend trip from Madrid, then I’d really recommend visiting Cuenca.

You know those cities where you don’t even need to scout out a museum or gallery to see its best sights? Well, cuenca is one of those.

Cuenca’s heritage is framed by medieval architecture. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes ideal for walks or hikes.

Most famous are the Hanging Houses, or Casas Colgadas. The houses are built into the cliff edge, almost like they’re defying gravity. You can view them all over the city, but particularly well from the San Pablo Bridge.

There’s also Los Ojos de la Mora, the eyes of the moors. Two eyes painted into the walls, said to be linked to a tragic love story thousands of years in the past. Like the houses, these are viewable from many locations, but the observation dock on Plaza la Merced is the best.

The city of Salamanca is another World Heritage Site. Are you noticing a pattern? Seriously, I don’t know why Spain’s landscape and architecture isn’t as revered as that of other countries.

Salamanca is best known for its university, the first ever in Spain. It’s famous all over the world. The city is renowned for its academic history, but it also means there’s a ton of draw for young people.

While a little further away than some of the other Madrid day trips at around two hours, it’s definitely doable. Some highlights include the Cathedral and the Plaza Mayor – sort of a town centre. This one is particularly grand, with loads of options for boutique shops or local bars and restaurants.

This tour of the city is available with a local. I love local tours. They’re perfect for a comprehensive history, and to discover hidden gems.

Zaragoza is one of those places you’ll wish you had more time for. Don’t worry though, a day trip is totally doable – it just might inspire you to come back!

The city is best known for two things. The annual Festival of Pilar, and the Basilica of El Pilar, one of the most famous Baroque churches in Europe.

That said, there’s way more cool stuff to discover. Cultural heritage is diverse; visit Aljafería Palace for a rich Moorish history, including a mosque.

Don’t worry about finding dinner back in Madrid. Instead, head to the El Tubo district for some of Europe’s tastiest tapas. Foodies should take this tour through Old Town for the best food and wine.

Madrid Wine Vineyards

Speaking of wine, we’re onto one of the best types of Madrid tours – wine tasting and vineyards!

While Madrid may not be the region that first comes to mind when you think of Spanish wine, business is booming here. Madrid has its own Denominación de Origen: Vinos de Madrid. Essentially, it has a wine region.

Split into three zones, San Martin, Navalcarnero and Arganda, each area is populated with vineyards for different types of wine. I realise that when you’re paying to sample wine, you want to make the most of the wine. You’ll be pleased to know there are easy public transport links.

With so much variety, getting a guided tour is probably a lot easier than planning your own itinerary. This is a good one that you’ll love.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

I mentioned this town already; it’s relatively close to the Valley of the Fallen. This day trip from Madrid however is a much less sobering experience.

The main highlight is the Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, or the Monasterio del Escorial. As you can probably tell, the history of this looming building is expansive.

It used to house the former King of Spain. Later, it was a monastery – but it’s still much more than that. It holds a Royal tomb, a basilica, a palace and an insane library.

If you’re not convinced, it’s even been referred to as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’. So, not one to miss. A full day could be spent here alone. There are many Madrid tours you can take to explore it; this one is a good option for the highlights and a comprehensive history.

Sometimes known as ‘The Town of Stones and Saints’, Avila is famous for the walls and turrets which surround it.

It’s evident that most Madrid day trips come with a cathedral. Avila’s is impressive, still standing from the 12th century with the architecture I’ve come to love in Spain.

One of the highlights though has got to be walking around the city. You’re even allowed to walk on top of certain sections of the walls, and even to the top of turrets. I probably don’t even need to mention the spectacular view.

If you’re short on time, many Madrid tours can take you through Avila and another city on the same trip. Here’s an example of a tour through Avila and Segovia , but there are many other options.

There are so many places to visit near Madrid – it’s genuinely surrounded by so many other awesome cities. Are any of these locations on your bucket list? Make sure to let me know in the comments!

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Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Cultural Travel , Spain

Cultural City-Hopping Spain Trips From Madrid by Train

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A capital city in the centre of the country, the places to go in Spain on easy trips from Madrid by train are vast. This selection of the best spots has you covered.

More than just a big city trip deserving of your attention, Madrid is also the epicentre for wider Spain travel. A capital city that sits in the middle of the country, it’s the optimal starting point to journey in any direction and explore one or more of Spain’s 17 regions.

Spain is the second biggest country in Western Europe after France. Still, its accessibility via the Renfe ‘Spanish High Speed’ AVE train network makes navigating different parts of the country and getting anywhere from Madrid by train easy.

With the trains reaching speeds of up to 350 km per hour, you can travel from Santander on the north coast to Malaga in the south in 8 hours or western Salamanca to eastern Castellón de la Plana in 6. Madrid Atocha is the most common station change – the hub of the high-speed tracks.

Beyond Madrid, planning a myriad of Spain trips ultimately comes down to what city to choose, also factoring in travel time and ticket budget. To help you shortlist, I have gathered a selection of my personal highlights, the most searched for city trips by train from Madrid on the Renfe rail site, and the most remarkable places to go in Spain that set the stage of Spanish culture, history and landscape.

I can’t wait to get back on the (rail) road when we can travel again and head south to explore new ground. 

Remarkable Places to Go in Spain – Spain Trips From Madrid by Train

Travelling from Madrid by Train

Highlights of madrid, madrid to san sebastian, madrid to oviedo, madrid to león, madrid to girona, madrid to zaragoza, madrid to barcelona, madrid to valencia, madrid to córdoba, madrid to seville, madrid to granada, madrid to malaga, save for future planning, tips for planning spain trips.

The best time for this trip, based on optimal weather conditions, are the shoulder ends of May-October, based on all the average forecasts for Madrid, San Sebastian, Girona, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Malaga.

READ MORE:   Travel in Spain by Train: AVE Guide

• All train tickets for the AVE rail network have to be pre-booked since you can’t turn up on the day and book at the station . You can show tickets electronically via a smartphone. There are nine classes, of which Turista (a second class option with 2 x 2 seating rows) and the more spacious Turista Plus (with 2 x 1 seating rows) are the most common and cost-effective.
• If you are booking a multi-stop trip, consider getting a ‘Spain Pass’. This means you can travel using just one ticket for the AVE and other long-distance trains. You must reserve a seat before every trip, as limited space is assigned for Spain Pass holders.

Madrid City Sightseeing

Train Stations: Madrid’s main train station is Madrid Atocha (Madrid Puerta de Atocha). It is also the largest railway station in the city, the central station for the high-speed AVE trains and home to a large botanical garden – a tropical greenhouse in the capital.

Is Madrid worth visiting? The dishevelled elegance of the capital jostles with the touristic and coastal Barcelona for visitor attention; still, I don’t think it should be bypassed, especially if you thrive in the momentum of big city life.

You need ample time (three to four days) to explore the remaining threads of medieval history, the Renaissance Habsburg to the 19th-century neoclassical architectural styles, the art museums, markets, and a mix of grungy and bohemian neighbourhoods. Madrid is a heady mix of grandiose sites and local subcultures, fuelled by a buzzing tapas bar culture, day and night. A walkable city, the best way to get around Madrid is by metro.

Madrid’s Royal Palace ( Palacio Real de Madrid) is the largest in Europe, with over 3,000 rooms. Daily tours take you through the highlights , including the Main Staircase and the Royal Gallery. A stroll in the adjacent Sabatini Gardens provides green-set views of the palace, and the public viewing Changing of the Guard takes place every Wednesday and Saturday.

Plaza Mayor square is outlined by the pretty arched porticos of its marketplace past – once the heart of Old Madrid when it first became a capital during the reign of the Habsburg King Phillip III. Today’s bustling square is the Puerta del Sol, whose semi-circular thoroughfare is the junction for some of Madrid’s busiest streets. It was once the site of an old city gate and the starting point for all the major roads in Spain.

The Temple of Debod  is a 2nd-century Egyptian temple set within the elevated Cuartel de la Montaña Park and the prime spot for watching Madrid’s sunset. The Egyptian government gifted the temple to save it from being submerged in the construction of the Aswan Dam.

The 19 th century El Retiro Park (Parque de El Retiro) is the city’s most beautiful and famous park, with a boating lake, monuments and botanical gardens. It’s also close to the Atocha train station. The striking white crown-like spired Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles) stands at one end of the park’s exterior.

Art enthusiasts could spend their entire time engrossed in the city’s 50 museums, of which around half are art galleries. If you choose just one, then The Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)  is the most world-renowned and locally famed. I took a guided tour of El Prado for an introduction to this treasure chest of European masterpieces spanning the 12th to the 20th centuries.

I spent most of my time scratching the surface of Madrid’s neighbourhoods . It’s personally how I like to understand the intricacies of a city. Malasaña and Chueca are the trendy, stylish and boho areas, Lavapiés is the edgy, street art-filled multicultural neighbourhood, and La Latina is the centre of the Tapas bar culture. Barrio de las Letras (the Literary Quarter) is a compact artist hub where writers from the Spanish Golden Age once resided. Los Austrias is the historic neighbourhood where you’ll find Plaza Mayor and San Miguel Market .

Short on time or looking for a different form of sightseeing? Excitedly tour Madrid in a nostalgic SEAT 600 or venture to the city’s highlights on the  hop-on-hop-off bus .

Places to Go in Spain From Madrid by Train

• Stations: Madrid-Chamartin-Clara Campoamor Station to San Sebastian/Donostia
• Fastest Train: 5 hours, 23 minutes (Renfe)
• Book Madrid to San Sebastian Train Tickets : From 50.00 €.

A visit to the northern Spanish coastal city of San Sebastian (Donostia) lands you in a very distinct region of Spain. A gastronomically acclaimed city, awash with Old Town architecture from Baroque basilicas to Belle Époque buildings, filled with music, the arts and home of Balenciaga, and the root of some of the oldest traditions and language in Europe from the Basque heritage.

A city surrounded by sea that once drew in royals and aristocrats for summer holidays, you can factor in beach strolls, surf lessons, and stand-up paddleboarding with the city’s creative pillars that made San Sebastian a European Capital of Culture. I viewed the city from the heights of Igueldo mountain, explored the grounds by bike on the city’s 30 km of dedicated biking paths, and made sure to find time to go Pintxos bar-hopping. 

Things to Do in San Sebastian – From Conflict to Capital of Culture.

The Best Pintxos in San Sebastian – The Miniature Food Culture.

• Stations: Madrid Chamartín to Oviedo
• Fastest Train: 4 hours, 40 minutes (Renfe Alvia)
• Book Madrid to Oviedo Train Tickets : From 50.00 €.

Colourful, monumental, beautiful Oviedo – it’s been the capital of Asturias since the 8th century, yet this stately city of northern Spain is lesser-known. Give yourself a day or two to wander the historic city, with its pretty plazas and colourful tile-stoned streets, and get lost within this architectural wonderland of northern Spain. The central gothic Cathedral is a masterpiece, and the pre-Romanesque treasures just a 3-kilometre walk from the city centre is part of the collection of the rare Medieval architecture style from the days of the Asturian monarchy.

Oviedo is famous for its sidra (cider) and statues. The entire city is full of statues and sculptures, turning Oviedo into an open-air museum with over 100 works of art in its streets, squares and parks. And the cider is a core part of Asturian cultural heritage, alongside its gastronomic treasures, including over 40 artisan cheeses, so don’t leave without a visit to a Sidrería for some tasty dishes and Asturian cider drinking – poured in a unique way. 

Things to do in Oviedo – The Monumental Capital of Asturias.

• Stations: Madrid Chamartín to León
• Fastest Train: 2 hours, 1 minute (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to León Train Tickets : From 35.00 €.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Girona
• Fastest Train: 3 hours, 53 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Girona Train Tickets : From 68.00 €.

Barcelona steals the limelight for those planning to visit Spain’s north-eastern Catalonia, but consider the neighbouring city of Girona takes you on a journey spanning over 2,000 years. The secluded beaches of the Costa Brava are just 30 minutes away. You can find Girona’s medieval history in the historical centre Old Quarter (Barri Vell) and its Roman in the 1st-century BC Força Vella Fortress – you can walk along some of the remaining parts. Take a walking tour to find the Game of Thrones filming locations to immerse yourself in it all. 

Other city highlights include the Cathedral with a Romanesque tower and baroque façade, built between the 11th and 18th centuries, getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow lanes and alleys of the Jewish Quarter, and the magnificent Islamic-modelled architecture of the Arab Baths, built by Christians in 1194. The red iron Peixateries Velles Bridge from 1827 is a famed postcard picture viewpoint in the city.

Things to Do in Girona – Inside the Historical Secret of Spain.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Zaragoza-Delicias
• Fastest Train: 1 hour, 15 mins (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Zaragoza Train Tickets : From 38.00 €.

Anchored between Madrid and Barcelona, the Aragon region’s capital in North-Eastern Spain is a compact city that could work as a day trip. Zaragoza is where an artful urban boldness mixes with the graceful ancient.

The 11th-century medieval Islamic Ajafería Palace is the most symbolic site to visit. Zaragoza’s UNESCO World Heritage status comes from this display of Mudéjar art native to Aragon – a blend of Islamic and Christian elements when the two faiths coexisted after the Christian Reconquista. Beyond the palatial centre of Zaragoza, best viewed from the heights of the Roman Catholic Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, you will soon see that street art paves the way for the city’s other persona.

The colossal building murals are part of an annual urban regeneration drive, bringing an artistic new life to forgotten neighbourhoods. Consider hiring a local guide for insider knowledge. In Goya’s home, with a dedicated museum of his works to boot, it’s no wonder that art plays a central role in the city’s persona. Ultra-modern architecture like the Alma del Ebro sculpture (The Soul of the Ebro) at the Zaragoza Expo Zone continues the decorative trend.

Things to do in Zaragoza, Spain – World Heritage, Legacy and Urban Revival

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Barcelona Sants
• Fastest Train: 2 hours, 30 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Barcelona Train Tickets : From 56.00 €.

One of the most popular long-distance trips from Madrid by train is to Barcelona, the coastal capital of the Catalonia region. I’ve visited the city twice, choosing new major sites to peruse without rushing, savouring long boulevard-strewn walks, Barcelona bike tours and beach days, and spending long evenings sipping jugs of sangria in a local neighbourhood square. Coupled with Madrid, you’ll need some big city steam.

A stroll on the kilometre-long Las Ramblas is a rite of passage, and Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces take centre stage, most notably the Sagrada Familia, the egg-white curves of Casa Mila, the mosaic wonders of Casa Batlló and Park Güell. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) combines an incredible maze of narrow streets, medieval squares and striking gothic façades. Shop local produce from seafood to jamón ibérico and cheese at the market institution that is La Boqueria and catch a local bus to one stretch of La Barceloneta – the long yellow sand stretch and promenade of Barcelona’s city beach.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Valencia Joaquín Sorolla
• Fastest Train: I hour, 40 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Valencia Train Tickets : From 26.00 €

© VisitValencia

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Valencia is one of Spain’s oldest, a trip that combines a heritage of 2,000 years with a Mediterranean climate and fine-powered sand beaches.

Valencia is a city full of accolades. Start in the Old Town’s cobblestoned labyrinth (Ciutat Vella) . The historically layered Roman, Gothic, and Baroque Cathedral protects the Holy Chalice and the Silk Exchange (La Lonja) World Heritage Site displays why it is one of the most famous civil gothic monuments in Europe. The 1000-year-old neighbourhood of Barrio del Carmen, whose Muslim and Christian walls whose gates still stand, preserves some of the city’s iconic medieval structures like the Serrano and Quart Towers.

For food and nature, the Central Market in Valencia, with its 1200 food stalls, is the largest market with fresh produce in Europe. The wetland oasis of L’Albufera National Park is where the famed culinary paella was invented. Valencia’s port area trio of museums, known as the City of Arts , connects to the Turia Gardens. This city park’s extensive network of tree-lined footpaths, lakeside recreation spots and 18 bridges in different architectural styles makes it one of Spain’s largest urban parks. 

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Córdoba Central
• Fastest Train: I hour 40 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Córdoba Train Tickets : From 43.00 €.

A trilogy of cultures from its founding as a Roman city to Arab conquest and Christian rule, the golden stoned Córdoba is an ancient architectural marvel. In preserving this legacy, Cordoba holds the title of the first city to have four UNESCO World Heritage Sites – more than any other city in the world.

Visit the Mosque-Cathedral, La Mezquita – the most famed of the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites as a distinguished monument of Islamic architecture, alongside the notable Historic Centre and Jewish Quarter surrounding it. Also included are the excavated ruins of the Caliphate city palace at the foot of the Sierra Morena Mountains, which ruler Abd-al Rahman III had constructed in 929 AD to display his Kingdom’s power. The beautiful domestic courtyards symbolic of Córdoba and its acclaimed Festival of the Patios, which open the private community spaces for public viewing, are a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity site.

Other interest sites include touring the fortress turned Royal residence, Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos and the 1 st century BC Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir River. The former Moorish Calahorra Tower at the end is today a museum detailing the city’s long history of conquest and achievement.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Sevilla-Santa Justa
• Fastest Train: 2 hours, 32 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Seville Train Tickets : From 46.00 €.

From bustling Madrid to the charming, flamenco dancing famed Seville, this city is where the colourful, artistic streets converge with the delicate, classical architecture of the open squares and boulevards. As Andalusia’s capital, and another of the most popular trips from Madrid by train, it will most likely be your introduction to the region too.

The Cathedral is a city centrepiece as is the exquisite Plaza de España is a plaza in the Parque de María Luisa. A mix of Islamic and Renaissance designs, this 1928 masterpiece is a symbol of the city known for its grandeur of tiled fountains, opulent bridges and lush gardens. Dedicate at least half a day to exploring the vast landscapes and vivid detail of the stunning Mudéjar architecture of the Real Alcázar of Seville , a 14th-century royal palace built by Muslim Kings.

Seville is not without its modern architectural additions. Occupying one of Seville’s squares, the city’s Metropol Parasol (more affectionately known as ‘the mushrooms’) is the largest wooden structure in Europe, whose curling walkways up to 26 metres high provide a new panoramic view of the city. Designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer, it has been controversial since its completion in 2011.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Granada
• Fastest Train: 3 hours, 17 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Granada Train Tickets : From 48.00 €.

Granada’s icon is the fortified Arab citadel of the Alhambra , perched defiantly in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. An opulent tiered, tiled and terraced complex of palaces, courtyards and gardens, it is preserved as one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture on the continent.

Catholic architecture takes centre stage in the Historical Centre of Granada city, including the Renaissance masterpieces of the Cathedral of Granada and the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, alongside the baroque Basilica San Juan de Dios and the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel) mausoleum of the last Catholic Monarchs. Admire the cave houses of Sacromonte and join the buzz at Campo del Prínicpe Square in the Jewish neighbourhood of Realejo-San Matias, and indulge in the tradition of free tapas in Granada, for which a complimentary morsel is given with every drink ordered.

Adjacent to Centro Granada, spend time getting lost in the streets of Albaicin, granted UNESCO World Heritage status for its traditional Moorish architecture and courtyards and kicking back in the hum of the atmospheric Arabic teahouses.

• Stations: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Malaga María Zambrano
• Fastest Train: 2 hours, 46 minutes (RenfeAVE)
• Book Madrid to Malaga Train Tickets : From 48.00 €.

The fashionable city of Malaga on the golden sand southern coastline of the Costa del Sol is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its pre-historic 3,000 years of history go back to its founding by the eastern Mediterranean Phoenicians in the 7th-century BC. Today, Malaga is best known as the birthplace of the revered artist Pablo Picasso.

History stands at the base of Gibralfaro hill with the preserved palace structure of Alcazaba of Málaga, a Muslim monument partially constructed in 1057 using stone materials from the 1st century AD Roman Theatre that stands in front of it. The hilltop Castillo de Gibralfaro Castle was built to protect the Alcazaba, captured in 1487 by the Catholic Monarchs during the Reconquista that drove out the Moors and used as a residence by the King. Visitors also come here for the sweeping views over the city. Monuments from the Christian era of Malaga include monasteries and basilicas and the commanding Renaissance allure of the Malaga Cathedral (Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación).

Art enthusiasts can follow Picasso’s trail at number 15 Plaza de la Merced – the building where he was born in 1881 – before heading to the 16th-century Renaissance beauty of Buenavista Palace, home to the Museo Picasso Málaga (Malaga Picasso Museum). Break up a tour of Malaga’s highlights with a trip to one of the 15 city beaches.

Disclaimer:  This article was created in collaboration with the Tourism Office of Spain as inspiration for when we can travel again. For further Spain travel advice and help planning your trip, visit Spain’s official tourism portal . Borders of Adventure maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.

Photos of Malaga by former local David Brennan and an image of Valencia used with permission from the Spanish Tourist Office in London for this campaign. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Day Trips from Madrid

15 Best Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid is one of the most popular cities in all of Europe. Partly due to their world famous football team, Real Madrid, and in part for the incredible history and architecture that it houses, Madrid really does have something for everyone.

With balmy summer days and cool winter months Madrid is a year-round destination and each season brings something new to explore.

Once you have ticked off the Buen Retiro Park, the Royal Palace and of course the Plaza Mayor, it’s time to escape the city limits and explore Spain as a whole.

From historic cities to wine regions, from royal palaces to coastal retreats there is a heap of great day trips from Madrid to enjoy.

Let’s take a look:

1. Barcelona

Although a fair hike, Barcelona can be easily reached in the space of a day trip from Madrid.

Spain’s buzzing second city has a whole host of cultural and historical gems to explore.

The Sagrada Família and Park Güell are the must-visit sights in Barcelona.

Park Güell is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Spain and is a one of Gaudi’s most impressive architectural works.

Football fans will have ample time to sign up to a tour of Camp Nou, the stadium home ground for FC Barcelona.

Self-confessed foodie travellers should make a beeline for La Boqueria, Barcelona’s famous indoor food market.

Toledo is one of Spain’s best loved UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is a great addition to any visit to this wonderful nation.

Toledo is often dubbed at the ‘City of Three Cultures’ for it has been home to harmonious communities of Christians, Jews and Muslims for decades.

Toledo provides a wonderful introduction to all three faiths and the religious buildings that are scattered throughout the city are each more magnificent than the last.

Toledo is situated atop of a gorge that offers incredible views over the Río Tajo.

Home to a wonderful history of art, Toledo provided an artistic sanctuary for greats like El Greco.

A highlight of any day trip to Segovia is to marvel at the Aqueduct of Segovia.

That said, the Alcázar of Segovia is pretty darn impressive, as is the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso.

The Aqueduct of Segovia was built by the Romans, features two tires and a whopping 167 arches.

It’s a awe-inspiring feat of historic construction that has stood the test of time.

The Alcázar of Segovia is certainly not to be missed.

This restored medieval castle has been brought back to life after a devastating fire.

The rooms are beautiful decorated and the armoury museum is seriously impressive.

If you have time do consider a visit to Real Casa de la Moneda, Spain’s former royal mint.

Avila is a historic walled city that lies just over 100 km from Madrid.

Known also at the Town of Stones and Saints, Avila has an interesting history to explore.

It really is incredible that the walls and turrets of Avila are still standing.

The town features over 80 of these towers and there nine different gated entrances.

Despite its age it is still possible to walk along the top some sections of the walls which is a wonderful experience, offering amazing views of the town below.

Within the walls of Avila you will find a fortified cathedral that dates back to the 12th-Century and a number of gothic palaces which are not to be missed.

5. Salamanca

Salamanca is another Spanish city to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and deservingly so, there is just so much culture and history here.

The New Cathedral of Salamanca is truly a sight to behold.

Ornate and imposing, the Cathedral features unique carvings that have been added slowly throughout the years, including an astronaut (of all things) during the 1990s.

For those interested in gothic architecture Casa de las Conchas should not be overlooked.

Covered from top to bottom in seashell motifs the Casa de las Concha one of Salamanca’s hidden gems.

6. Madrid’s Wine Country

Madrid is not only a city but the name for the whole region of Spain.

This region sees Manzanares, Tajuña, Jarama, Henares and Tajo rivers come to confluence.

All this water makes the landscape incredibly fertile, add in the Spanish sunshine and you have the perfect recipe for a vineyard.

There are dozens of wineries in the Madrid wine country and the winemaking history of this area dates back nearly a century.

During a day trip to the wine region you not only have the opportunity to taste some of Europe’s best wines but to learn about grape cultivation, wine production and the history of this lush landscape too.

This area is particularly famous for its Tempranillo grapes.

7. Las Rozas Village

Las Rozas Village is the leading outlet shopping facility in Madrid Region.

Lying just 30-minutes from Madrid city centre, Las Rozas Village is home to over 100 boutique stores offering up to 60% off luxury brand names.

If shopping is in order during your trip to Spain make sure to save yourself for Las Rozas Village.

With shops catering for men, women and children there is something for everyone.

There are a number of high end restaurants at Las Rozas Village that provide a welcome respite from a busy day bagging up bargains.

There is a Shopping Express coach that shuttles shoppers from central Madrid to the outlet and back again throughout the day.

8. Ribera del Duero

Spain produces some of the most highly sought after wines in the world and many of those wines are produced Ribera del Duero.

The landscapes of Ribera del Duero are simply breathtaking and couple this with the opportunity to sample some of the best wines in the world and you’re onto a real winner.

Ribera del Duero region is too home to an awesome selection of restaurants serving traditional Castilian food.

If you’re seeking a food based cultural adventure then a day trip to the Ribera del Duero region is certainly for you.

9. San Lorenzo de El Escorial

The small down of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is home of the royal seat.

In centuries gone by San Lorenzo de El Escorial was the full time residence for the King of Spain.

El Escorial itself in an vast imposing building build during the Renaissance era and is an expansive palace complex that could take a whole day of its own to explore.

If you’re travelling with children you can add a little variety into the mix and take a few hours to visit the Insect Park; an easy way to get the little ones back onside during a history filled day.

10. La Mancha

La Mancha is a region of central Spain, east of Madrid, that provided the setting for ‘Don Quixote’ the 17th-Century novel by Miguel de Cervantes.

A visit to La Mancha region offers you the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the lovable nobleman and connect with the Spanish countryside.

La Mancha is home to the largest vineyard in the world.

Budding sommeliers will not miss the chance to visit such a significant spot.

The wineries of La Mancha still employ traditional winemaking methods Easily one of the most beautiful areas of Spain La Mancha is best experienced with a glass of wine in one hand and a copy of ‘Don Quixote’ in the other.

11. Cordoba

There is just so much to explore in Cordoba, for lovers of architecture it is not to be missed.

Set in Andalusia, Cordoba has a rich and vibrant history.

The Mosque of Cordoba is constructed in typical Moorish style and features an impressive basilica.

Considered to be one of the greatest Islamic buildings in the world, the mosque is a wonderful starting point.

Moving on to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the Calahorra Tower, these too should feature high on the must-visit list for Cordoba.

There are a number of high end restaurants in Cordoba that serve exquisite traditional tapas.

12. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is a wonderful day trip from Madrid that can be coupled with a visit to Toledo if you are short on time.

The grounds of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez are wonderfully kept and a joy to explore.

From the Prince’s Gardens to the Island, to the Parterre, there is a fascinating array of vegetation to be found within the grounds and plenty of different tree species too.

The throne room houses phenomenal royal artefacts that give fascinating insights into the lives and times of monarchs gone by.

The Museum of Royal Feluccas is an interesting addition to a day trip and features exhibits on the royal boats.

Cuenca is one of Spain’s best kept secrets.

Although a UNESCO World Heritage Site Cuenca is often overlooked by travellers in favour of Toledo and Salamanca.

Most definitely worth a day trip from Madrid Cuenca has so much to explore.

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca really have to be seen to be believed.

The Bridge of San Pablo plays a vital role in this city’s history and is not for faint hearted nor those with acrophobia.

The Devil’s Nose train takes you on a picturesque journey through the Andes is an option most definitely for travellers who opt for a cheeky overnight stay in Cuenca.

14. Pedraza

Pedraza is a medieval town that lies just 37 km from Segovia, to the north east.

It is a charming, rustic town that is rich in history and culture.

With cobbled streets and plenty of cafes serving up traditional tapas, Pedraza offers you the opportunity to get at one with the Spanish pace of life and experience the culture at its most authentic.

The Pedraza Castle is not to be missed and houses the masterpieces of Ignacio Zuloaga.

Pedraza is home to the annual Fiestas Patronales which sees bulls run through the winding streets and bull fighting in the Plaza Mayor.

15. Valencia

If a trip to the coast be the order of the day then a visit to Valencia is a great option.

Just an hour and a half from Madrid city centre is the charming city of Valencia.

Sitting on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia has a laid back atmosphere that will make you never want to leave.

A city known for its art culture, make sure to find time to visit the L’Oceanografic if only to marvel at the wave-like architectural design.

The Institut Valencia d’Art Modern has a great selection on modern art pieces on display throughout the year and a great cafe too.

15 Best Day Trips from Madrid:

• Madrid’s Wine Country
• Las Rozas Village
• Ribera del Duero
• San Lorenzo de El Escorial
• Royal Palace of Aranjuez

15 Best Day Trips From Madrid (+ Map)

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure

Wanna know what are the best day trips from Madrid? Spain’s fashionable capital offers endless entertainment. But if you only visit Madrid, you’re missing out on historical towns, majestic castles, lavish palaces, and breathtaking natural attractions, all close enough to Madrid to get there and back in one glorious day. If you have more than 3 days in Madrid , you should definitely take the opportunity to go on one (or several) of these top-notch day trips.

Madrid is ideally situated at the heart of the Iberian Peninsula and smack bang in the middle of a bunch of great day trip destinations, all under two hours away by either car or rail. This makes Madrid the perfect base for day trips.

On the off chance that you fancy joining an organized day tour or venture on your own, I’ve put together a convenient list of the very finest day trips out of Madrid, complete with useful information like the top places to visit in each location and the best local foods to sample.

So make sure you add on some extra days to your vacation and enjoy some of the best day trips from Madrid. You’ll be happy you did!

Looking for a place to stay? Check out these amazing boutique hotels in Madrid .

Best day trips from Madrid by train or organized tour

One of the best things you can do when planning your day trips from Madrid is to think strategically and batch two or three destinations into a full day’s exploration.

To do this, I recommend joining small group tours as they are the most efficient use of your time and an opportunity to learn a great deal more about the places you visit. Plus you don’t have to worry about parking space or timetable restrictions.

While most of these day trips can be done by train I’ve also included links to organized-for-you day trips, whenever a day trip from Madrid was available. I hope you’ll find this helpful.

1. Toledo – the most popular day trip from Madrid

Toledo is a nearly frozen-in-time city just half an hour by train from Madrid. Its historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its unparallel blend of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian influences make it an unmissable day trip from Madrid.

As the former capital of the Spanish Empire, Toledo has a rich history reflected in its grand monuments. Among the must-see attractions are the imposing Alcazar, the cathedral, Santa María la Blanca (a Mezquita turned synagogue turned Christian church), the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes, and several still-standing city gates and bridges.

Toledo has been immortalized in paintings by El Greco, one of the city’s most prominent residents. Now, almost half a millennia later, these paintings that can be seen inside the El Greco Museum stand proof of how little Toledo has changed.

What to eat in Toledo: Among the most typical foods in Toledo are marzipan , a confectionary made with almonds, sugar, and egg yolks, and carcamusas local tapas consisting of lean pork with vegetables served in a small clay dish.

2. Segovia – a fantastic day trip from Madrid for UNESCO fans

Segovia is another easy day trip from Madrid. This UNESCO World Heritage City can be reached in as little as half an hour by train and it’s worth visiting first and foremost for its Roman aqueduct and fairytale-like Alcazar.

The aqueduct is one of the best-preserved elevated Roman aqueducts in the world and it runs right through the middle of the city. Build in the 1st century AD, it continued to bring water to the upper part of Segovia until 50 years ago.

The Alcazar on the other hand is believed to have served as inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle. In the Middle Ages, this austere fortress was a favorite residence of the monarchs of Castile. Nowadays, its turrets continue to captivate the visitors’ imagination.

Segovia is ideal for a half-day trip, so if you want to fit other cities into your schedule, a tour that includes Segovia, Toledo, and Avila is worth checking out. It might seem like a lot to see in a day, but the tour is very well organized and you really can’t see all three cities in one day if you were to travel by train (believe me, I tried!).

What to eat in Segovia: Foodwise, Segovia it’s best known for its roasted suckling pig and roasted suckling lamb dishes as well as for the judiones de la Granja , a local variety of ginormous beans. For dessert, try the ponche Segoviano , a cream-filled sponge cake.

3. Avila – a great day trip from Madrid for history lovers

Avila can be reached from Madrid by train in 1h 30 min. An adorable city best known for its intact medieval walls, Avila is one of the best day trips from Madrid for anyone with an interest in history and defense strategy.

The Walls of Avila, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were built between the 11th and 14th centuries, are 2,5 km long, and enclose an area of 31 hectares. Complete with 9 gates and dozens of turrets these walls are 3 meters thick and 12 meters high on average and can be walked upon.

Besides the walls, Avila is famous for its pilgrimage sites and churches because of its connection with Saint Teresa, the patron saint of the sick.

Avila is also perfect for a half-day trip from Madrid, so you’ll have time to visit another city if you’re not in a hurry. For example, you could visit Avila and Segovia or Avila and Salamanca on the same day.

What to eat in Avila: When it comes to food, the city is best known for its legendary chuletón de Avila , a delicious veal steak prepared on the grill and served rare to preserve all the flavor of the meat. For those with a sweet tooth, the yemas de Santa Teresa (oddly addictive egg yolk and sugar balls) are a must-try.

4. Salamanca

Salamanca is a 1h 40 min train ride from Madrid. However, some trains take even longer, which is why joining an organized tour is definitely the best option if you want to visit Salamanca on a day trip from Madrid.

A city steeped in history, Salamanca is best known for its university founded in 1218 by King Alfonso IX. This is the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest universities in the world and it attracts many students from all over the country and from abroad.

Often dubbed the “Oxford of Spain”, the University of Salamanca offers nearly 600 bachelor’s and master’s degrees at affordable rates (somewhere between 1,000 EUR and 3,000 EUR per academic year). Several old university buildings can be visited.

As you probably came to expect by now, Salamanca is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I highly recommend exploring its Old Town boasting over 20 palaces, its Plaza Mayor (the city’s main square) as well as the Old and the New Cathedral (that’s right, Salamanca has two cathedrals!). And certainly don’t miss Casa Lis, one of the most stunning Art Nouveau buildings I’ve seen out of Brussels .

What to eat in Salamanca: When you feel hungry, stop by a pastry shop and grab an hornazo , an oven-baked pastry stuffed with ham, sausage, or bacon. Or order some guijuelo a raw ham that matured naturally following ancient traditions.

5. El Escorial (+ the Valley of the Fallen) – perfect day trip from Madrid for art lovers

Situated a bit over an hour away from Madrid Atocha by cercanias (short-distance trains) lines C8 or C3, El Escorial is a royal palace and monastery declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built between 1563 and 1584 by the order of King Philip II and is the largest Renaissance building in the world.

Among the highlights of El Escorial is the Royal Pantheon, a circular chamber that has served as the final resting place for most Spanish kings for nearly 500 years; as well as the library, which hosts over 45,000 volumes, countless terrestrial and celestial globes, maps, and scientific instruments and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

A mere 13 km away, the Valley of the Fallen is a basilica and Spanish Civil War memorial that boasts the tallest memorial cross in the world. Up till 2019 it also hosted the remains of dictator Francisco Franco.

El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen are popular destinations for day-trippers from Madrid. The two sites are usually visited together due to their proximity. If you visit by public transport, however, the only way to get to Valley of the Fallen from El Escorial is by bus.

6. Alcalá de Henares

Just a 40-minute journey away and with several cercanias trains running every hour, Alcalá de Henares is one of the easiest day trips from Madrid.

As the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alcalá de Henares has plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a good part of the day.

First off, you should visit Plaza de Cervantes, a charming square dating back to medieval times. Then take a stroll on Calle Mayor, Europe’s longest street lined with arches on both sides. And of course, you should also check out the Cervantes Museum, the stunning Laredo Palace (a 19th-century palace in Neo-Mudejar style), and the UNESCO-listed university, one of the oldest in the world.

What to eat in Alcalá de Henares: As for food, you try the rosquillas , a donut-shaped puff pastry dunked into a creamy glaze made with egg yolks and sugar, and the costrada , a dessert consisting of sheets of puff pastry filled with custard cream and meringue.

7. Cuenca (+ the Enchanted City)

Cuenca can be easily reached from Madrid in just under an hour by AVE high-speed train. As a UNESCO World Heritage City famous for its hanging houses dramatically clinging over a steep river gorge, Cuenca is a great option to spend the day away from the hustle and bustle of Madrid.

Besides the iconic hanging houses (one of them houses an abstract art museum), other attractions include de cathedral, the picturesque alleys, and the Túneles de Alfonso VIII, a series of natural underground tunnels that through the ages served as pedestrian passageways, aqueducts, and even crypts.

If you’re visiting Cuenca on a day tour from Madrid, it’s good to know that some tours also include a visit to Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City), a fascinating site with curious rock formations just 36 kilometers from Cuenca. The Enchanted City cannot be reached by public transport.

What to eat in Cuenca: Try the morteruelo , a thick paté made with partridge, quail, hen, hare, rabbit, and pork, and the alajú , a cake made with an almond base, roasted bread crumbs, spices, and honey sandwiched between two wafers.

8. Valencia – the best day trips from Madrid for beach lovers

While it might sound wildly ambitious, visiting Valencia on a day trip from Madrid is totally possible thanks to the high-speed AVE train that will take you to the Mediterranean Sea in just 1h 40 min.

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is best known for its golden sand beaches, the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Lonja (the Silk Exchange), Las Fallas festival , and for being a really cool city overall.

While, as a first-time visitor, I recommend you spend at least 3 days in Valencia , if you’re in a hurry, one day is always better than none. Do some sightseeing, maybe even some shopping , relax on a terrace, and stroll through Turia Park (the largest in Spain!). If you’re looking for inspiration, this list of the best things to do in Valencia can definitely help.

What to eat in Valencia: Since Valencia is the birthplace of paella , you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this exquisite rice dish for lunch. To save you time, I put together a list of the best paella restaurants in Valencia . If you want to try some other traditional food in Valencia a good place to start is with a refreshing glass of horchata (a sweet tigernut drink).

9. Aranjuez

Easily reached by the C3 cercanias train line in 45 minutes, Aranjuez has been a royal site since 1560 and an exclusive town where only royals and nobles were allowed for nearly two centuries.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aranjuez makes for a fun day trip from Madrid. Top of the list of places to visit is without a doubt the Royal Palace which was intended to rival the Palace of Versailles and the adjacent formal gardens.

Also worthy of a visit are the Prince’s Gardens, one of the largest gardens in Spain featuring botanical gardens, an 18th-century neoclassical palace, the royal barge collection, and even a Chinese garden.

What to eat in Aranjuez: Aranjuez it’s so famous for its mouth-watering strawberries, that in 1984 the Strawberry Train line connecting Madrid’s Railway Museum with Aranjuez’s Station of Delights was introduced. Besides strawberries, Aranjuez is also famous for its asparagus and the perdiz escabechada (marinaded partridge).

10. Palace of Infante Don Luis

If you’ve watched Netflix’s Spanish drama series The Cook of Castamar (and even if you haven’t), you’ll want to visit this neoclassic palace located in Boadilla del Monte, on the outskirts of Madrid.

Since it can be reached by metro line ML3 (different from L3!), this might be the easiest day trip from Madrid on this list.

Although the Netflix series is set in 1720 during the reign of Philip V, in reality, the Palace of Infante Don Luis wasn’t built until the 1760s and stands on the former Palace of Two Towers.

The palace is built in the late Spanish Baroque style and is surrounded by extensive gardens. It was also the setting for the movie Goya’s Ghosts. Free guided visits are available, but you need to register in advance.

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11. Madrid wine region

Winegrowing has been a thing in the Madrid region ever since Roman times. Wine production continued throughout the Moorish invasion (9th to the 11th century) despite the koranic prohibition, and later on, Madrid’s wines were celebrated in the works of Cervantes and other Spanish writers and painters.

Nowadays, Madrid’s wine region covers some 12,000 hectares and has been granted a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status. Besides, the wine regions of La Mancha (the largest wine region in Europe) and Ribera del Duero (known for its high-quality, bold, and lush red wines) are not far away either.

So if you are a wine lover, you should consider visiting some of the nearby wineries on a day trip from Madrid to see the clay vats, vineyards, and centennial caves.

Of course, since such a day trip almost inevitably includes a wine tasting or two, I certainly wouldn’t recommend driving. This is why joining a guided tour such is the best option (reaching wineries by train or bus is complicated and not the best use of your time).

Also read: 20 Fun Madrid Facts You’ll Love

Best day trips from Madrid by car

Unfortunately, not all places that make great day trips from Madrid can be reached by train or by joining an organized group tour. Some can only be reached by private car.

If you want to enjoy these fantastic Madrid day trips, you can rent a car. I’m sure you’ll have a blast!

12. The Consuegra Windmills

When thinking of historic windmills, the Netherlands might be the first country to come to mind. But Spain is certainly a close second, and that is thanks to famed Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes who created one of the most iconic images of Spain when he wrote the scene of Don Quixote fighting with the windmills of Castilla-La Mancha.

Nowadays, historic windmills such as the ones Cervantes described in his early 17th-century novel can still be occasionally spotted in central Spain. But the most emblematic ones are the 12 windmills of Consuegra, a short drive from the Spanish capital, and one of the most memorable day trips from Madrid.

The original purpose of the windmills was to grind wheat. They were passed from one generation to another until they finally fell into disuse in the 1980s.

Now beautifully restored, these windmills on a hill just outside the town stand as guardians of the adjoining 10-century castle. They are all positioned in pretty much a straight line, so they are easily reached. Plus one of them, Molino Bolero, can be visited inside.

13. La Granja de San Ildefonso

La Granja de San Ildefonso is situated nearly 100 km from Madrid. While there are no direct trains or buses from Madrid to La Granja de San Ildefonso, the town is only half an hour by bus from Segovia. So if you really don’t want to rent a car, you could still, in theory, batch the two into a full day trip away from Madrid.

The lavish palace and gardens were built in the early 18th century in the Baroque style by King Philip V, the first Bourbon to reign in Spain. While probably feeling homesick, his intention was to build a palace that resembled the Palace of Versailles which was built by his grandfather, King Louis XIV of France. For that reason, La Granja de San Ildefonso is also called the “Versailles of Spain”.

The extensive palace grounds are impeccably decorated with numerous sculptures and 26 enormous fountains along with numerous smaller ones. They are also designed in the French style and surrounded by English landscape gardens and woodlands, making them some of the most beautiful gardens in Spain. Definitely, a relaxing setting to spend a day out of Madrid.

14. Coca Castle

Situated on the outskirts of Coca, a town 140 km from Madrid and the birthplace of the Roman Emperor Theodosius I, this castle can only be visited by private car. But in spite of being more difficult to reach than other places on this list, it is definitely a destination worth considering when planning your day trips from Madrid.

Coca Castle was constructed in the 15th century and is considered one of the best examples of Spanish Gothic-Mudejar architecture. From a strategic point of view, the most unusual trait of this castle is that it was built on a flat area rather than a hilltop. Therefore, its main defense was the surrounding wide and deep dry moat.

However, these days, Coca Castle is known throughout Spain for its stunning red brickwork that captivates the imagination. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular views of Coca from one of the towers.

15. The lavender fields of Brihuega

Maybe you thought that to take Insta-worthy photos of lavender fields you have to travel to Provence. But Spain has picture-perfect lavender fields as well and they are most certainly less crowded.

The lavender fields in Spain are concentrated around the tiny village of Brihuela, 100 km from Madrid. Since there are no direct trains or buses connecting Brihuela to the capital, renting a car is the logical thing to do, especially if you want to arrive early in the morning or leave well after sunset.

Alternatively, if you’re okay with visiting at any time of the day, you could take a train to Guadalajara and from there a bus to Brihuega. But remember the lavender fields are well, in the fields, and they spread over 10,000 hectares so it might not be ideal.

Brihuela produces close to 10% of the world’s lavender and in recent years it started to organize a festival to celebrate the lavender harvest, which quickly became popular.

If you plan to visit Madrid towards the end of June or the beginning of July, bookmark this article so that you remember to include Brihuega in your itinerary.

What to eat in Brihuela: Lavender-infused anything, from cakes to lemonade.

Recommended: 20 Spanish Dishes You Should Eat While Traveling Through Spain

Map of the best day trips from Madrid

To make planning easier for you, I’ve pinned all my suggestions onto the below map of the best day trips from Madrid. To get the most out of your time exploring Madrid’s surroundings, you can either rent a car, take the train or simply join an organized day trip.

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10 Best (Easy!) Day Trips from Madrid: Ultimate Guide

Located in the geographical center of Spain, Madrid seems close to everything. Madrid has so much to offer travelers, but Madrid’s proximity to so many incredible nearby destinations means that choosing at least one day trip from Madrid is a must for any itinerary.

Within a few hours of Madrid, you’ll find medieval cities and fortresses, royal palaces, fantastic vineyards, the most impressive cities in Spain , and much more. There is a perfect Madrid day trip for every type of traveler and on every budget.

In this ultimate guide to the ten best day trips from Madrid , we share exactly where you should add to your itinerary. Plus, we’re covering how to get there and the best things to do once you arrive. Let’s dive in!

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Day Trips from Madrid

There is a lot to choose from when it comes to deciding on a perfect day trip from Madrid. If you’re on a tight itinerary, it can even be a good idea to base yourself in Madrid and take several day trips from Madrid, rather than jumping from city to city for the duration of your time in Spain.   

Of course, with Madrid in the geographical heart of the country, you can reach so much in just one day. The options we’ve included in this article allow for an easy trip in and out to return to Madrid in one day.   

However, don’t think you can’t spend even more time in these destinations! Taking a weekend trip from Madrid can be the perfect way to explore these lovely spots even better, and enjoy them at a more relaxed pace.  

While the ease of travel varies with each destination, train travel is generally the way to go from Madrid. You’ll find frequent trains heading out of the city – including standard trains and high-speed trains – that cover most of Spain, and beyond.   

Download the handy Omio app to make travel easier – it will allow you to easily check train times and book train tickets (or tickets for buses, or flights!) on all carriers at once.   Now, let’s dive into the ultimate top ten day trips from Madrid! 

Prepare to be wowed by Ávila! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive one, and one of the world’s only medieval cities entirely enclosed inside original walls. In addition to being easily accessible to Madrid, this charming and historic city makes for an ideal day trip from Madrid – it’s hard to get better than this!

The imposing city wall is the main attraction here, and you’ll want to spend time exploring them. The view from the top of the walls is impressive, but you’ll also want to take it all in from outside the city. Head to the Four Posts monument outside the city walls – an important site in the life of St. Theresa, this spot also has an enviable view of the walls.

Don’t miss the Catedral de Ávila, either. Ávila’s grand and towering cathedral is built into the walls, and while it certainly is an attraction you won’t want to miss, it is also the best way to access the walls.

Ávila is easily reached from Madrid by bus or train, though the train journey is easiest – trains leave hourly from Madrid’s Principe Pio train station and cost around €10.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to see multiple historic cities outside of Madrid in just one day, you’ll have several options to choose from.

Guided small-group excursions to Ávila and Segovia are pretty popular and relatively inexpensive! Small group excursions to Ávila and Salamanca are also very popular, and while a little more expensive, well worth it to see two incredible destinations in one day, with ease.

Yet another jaw-dropping city in Spain perfect for a day trip from Madrid, Segovia oozes charm, history, and culture. It should be one of the top destinations you’re considering for a Madrid day trip. 

The star attraction in Segovia is the massive Roman aqueduct that cuts through the city’s heart. Thought to have been constructed around 115 A.D., standing in front of this gigantic architectural feat nearly 2000 years old is worth the trip to Segovia alone. 

However, the charm and beauty of the city don’t stop at the aqueduct. Next, you’ll want to head through the city’s historic Jewish Quarter and visit all of the major attractions along the main Calle Cervantes that cuts through the oldest part of the city.

You’ll see the Iglesia de San Martin church, Plaza Mayor, and Segovia’s cathedral , as well as the city’s old walls. 

Make sure to branch off and explore the side streets of the old Quarter, where you’ll find small mom-and-pop shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

Segovia is an easy trip from Madrid, and the AVE high-speed trains cover the distance in just around half an hour while taking a bus or driving can take double the time – or longer. You can catch one of these trains from the Charmartin train station in Madrid, and they depart hourly. 

You’ll also find inexpensive day trips from Madrid to Segovia and other nearby cities –  small group excursions to Segovia and Ávila  are popular, as well as  excursions to Segovia and Toledo .

If you’d rather just focus on enjoying this historic city, you can also book  a walking tour around the historic center  with an experienced guide. 

Think the stunning city of Seville in southern Spain is too far out of reach for a day trip from Madrid? Think again! While it takes about 5 hours to drive from Madrid to Seville, the high-speed  train from Madrid to Seville  that departs from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha station cuts travel time down to a little over two hours. 

Considered the most beautiful city in the stunning southern region of Andalusia, Seville is an unmissable highlight of Spain.

Home to the Real Alcázar of Seville, this royal palace is one of Spain’s most impressive examples of Mudéjar architecture that mixed Spanish and Moorish Muslim influences into a beautiful and ornate architectural style.

No matter what else you plan on doing in Seville,  book your ticket to the Real Alcázar in advance online ! You’ll be able to skip the (often very long!) lines and be assured you can visit – this is something you don’t want to miss!

In Seville, you can also visit highlights like the Giralda Tower and the Seville Cathedral, as well as visiting the Barrio de Triana, home to the famous Flamenco style of dance. If you’re looking for alternative things to do, take in  a traditional flamenco show  or  experience the city from the river on a river cruise . 

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4. El Escorial

One of Madrid’s most popular day trips is the monastery of El Escorial, also known as the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Located just an hour outside of Madrid, the monastery was built between 1563 and 1584 by King Phillip II to honor his father, Charles V.

Today El Escorial is one of the largest religious complexes in the world, housing a monastery, church, cloisters, and a royal palace and offices.

The complex is also home to an ornate library, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries , and thousands of illuminated manuscripts and thousands of historical books.

Guided  small group tours to El Escorial,  are among the most popular activities in Madrid. Coordinating guides and transportation, these organized visits will save you a lot of time and allow you to see the best of the monastery and its many buildings while returning to enjoy Madrid for the rest of the day.

If you’re planning on visiting without a guide, it’s still a good idea to pre- book your ticket online in advance . You’ll be able to skip the line – which can stretch on endlessly , especially during the high season – and make sure that you can enter the palace when you want and for the time you’d like.  

The former capital city of Spain , Toledo is one of the country’s most unique cities, with an incredible combination of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences, the likes of which are hard to find anywhere in Europe.

With a stunning historic center, including structures built in the Roman times, plus one of Spain’s most magnificent cathedrals, Toledo is an excellent (and easy!) day trip from Madrid.

A prominent feature of Toledo’s skyline is the Alcázar de Toledo, a former royal palace and fortress, now home to Toledo’s famous swords and armor, as the city was once well known for its blacksmiths.

The Toledo Cathedral is a must-visit, and make sure to climb the tower if the weather is nice for an unbeatable view over the city and the river below.

Toledo is just an hour outside of Madrid by train or bus, so it’s easy to reach on your own, and transportation options are abundant. Alternatively, book a  small group guided excursion to Toledo – these are very inexpensive, usually costing right around $25 for the whole day , which is less than you’d spend to get there yourself. 

If you’re not interested in a small group excursion, a  walking tour of Toledo  is a great way to see the very best of the city in a day while still being able to spend the rest of the day visiting the city at your leisure. 

If you’re planning to visit Toledo, you’ll want to make sure you pre-book your  Toledo Tourist Bracelet . This pass lets you into seven significant attractions in the city for just a few dollars , so you’ll save a lot of money over individually purchasing each ticket.

6. Zaragoza

Located between Madrid and Barcelona, Zaragoza is a thriving city full of Spanish charm, home to a unique cuisine, and has plenty to see and do. Definitely a contender for one of the best day trips from Madrid, you should be careful when visiting – you may wish you had planned to stay for a few more days!

There are many landmarks in the city worth seeing on a day trip from Madrid, including the Alifajería, which has some of the most beautiful Moorish architecture you’ll find anywhere in Spain , and the museum dedicated to Francisco de Goya, one of Spain’s most famous artists. 

The city oozes history around every corner, from the Roman amphitheater to the massive Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar church, the most prominent feature of Zaragoza’s skyline. 

In addition to taking in all of Zaragoza’s sites, you’ll also want to ensure you leave plenty of time to sample its unique cuisine. While Zaragoza is the capital city of Spain’s province of the same name, it is also the capital of an autonomous region of Spain called Aragon.

Its culinary legacy is strong, making  Zaragoza wine and tapas tours  some of the most popular activities for visitors to the city. 

You can easily reach Zaragoza from Madrid via high-speed AVE train in just over one hour, though the journey takes almost three hours by car or standard train. Trains are frequent , often leaving every hour, making this the most convenient way to reach this stunning Spanish city. 

7. Valladolid

Despite being the capital of Spain’s Castilla y Leon region and a beautiful city with history, culture, and great food, Valladolid is often overlooked by foreign travelers. Use this to your advantage and head to this charming city as a great Madrid day trip! 

Valladolid has a charming center, home to beautiful old churches like the famous Iglesia de San Pedro and the   Catedral de Valladolid. You’ll find plenty of pedestrian streets and shouldn’t need public transportation to explore the center quickly. 

As a university town, there is always something going on here: art shows or festivals, movie screenings, musical performances, and more.

Plaza Mayor often is home to events, or check out the  local cultural calendar to get an idea of what to look forward to when visiting.  

The city is also at the heart of one of Spain’s fantastic wine regions, so if you’re a wine lover, this might be a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Plan to visit a nearby vineyard – or several – for a tasting and to learn more about Spain’s winemaking. 

Valladolid is easily accessible from Madrid by bus or train, though taking the high-speed train will save you some travel time – the trip usually takes a little more than two hours, but less than one hour at high speed.

8. Salamanca

The historic city of Salamanca is another fabulous option for travelers looking for the best day trips from Madrid. Wandering the old city center, exploring and tasting your way through the Salamanca Central Market, and seeing the best of Salamanca is the perfect way to spend an engaging day in the city.

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Can’t picture traveling to visit a university? Founded in the 1200s, the university is home to an incredible mix of architectural styles, and you’ll marvel at the beauty of the university buildings and churches that are a part of the area.

Budget about two and a half hours to reach Salamanca, either by bus, car, or train. However, a daily high-speed train departs Madrid for Salamanca every morning around 8:30 AM, cutting traveling time down to an hour and a half.

If you’re interested in booking a small group excursion to Salamanca, you’ll find popular  day trips that include visits to both Salamanca and Ávila , a great chance to see two historic cities in one go. Alternatively, a  private guided excursion from Madrid to Salamanca  will let you enjoy the full day in this fabulous city. 

If you’d prefer to save money and travel to Salamanca on your own, a  walking tour with a guide  is a great way to learn the history and secrets of this incredible city. 

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The unique hilltop town of Cuenca, with its world-famous hanging houses, looks like it belongs among the famous hill towns of Tuscany rather than the hilly area surrounding Madrid.

Built atop the remains of a Muslim town and fortress dating back to the 700s, Cuenca is home to countless historic Christian churches, as well as a seminary, convent, and the Bishop’s Palace. Even if you’re not interested in visiting religious sites, this historic town on a hill has winding, centuries-old cobblestone streets, lovely buildings, delicious food, and much more to offer visitors. 

The Plaza Mayor and the Catedral de Cuenca are some of the star attractions within the historic center of the city – the cathedral’s unique facade is unforgettable, and its interior is well worth a visit as well.

For a better look at the city’s position on the hill, head to the Puente de San Pablo pedestrian bridge across the valley. While the original bridge collapsed in the early 1900s, the newer bridge is just as lovely for the incredible view of the hilltop city you’ll see from it. 

Consider using part of the day in Cuenca to learn about how this region of Spain is famous for its olive oil, and join in the olive oil-making process in a unique  olive oil “tour.” 

You’ll get to see firsthand how olive oil is made and taste fresh olive oil. This inexpensive class and taste test is an unexpected treat!

High-speed trains between Madrid and Cuenca will get you here in just over an hour , so the city is easily added as a half-day excursion or a full day if you’d like to take your time exploring and taking in the beauty and history of this unique hilltop town. 

10. Aranjuez

Located less than 40 minutes outside of Madrid and easily accessible by car, bus, or train, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez is well worth a day trip from Madrid, or even just a half-day excursion outside the city. 

The Royal Palace, built and rebuilt over centuries by Spanish royalty, is impressive. The palace’s interiors are stunning and well-preserved , and it is great fun to imagine the splendor of the kings and queens who once spent their springs and summers here.

The gardens are immense and include details like artificial lakes, countless fountains, pavilions, statues, and much more. 

You can book a  private tour to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez from Madrid , or take the train from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha train station – there are ten or more trains daily, so you should have no problem finding one to suit your schedule. 

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

The train journey from Lisbon to Madrid is a slow-travel showstopper

Jun 14, 2024 • 5 min read

After exploring Lisbon, why not take your time getting to Madrid and have some adventures on the way © Getty Images

Sometimes the journey is almost as good as the vacation itself, and traveling by train from Lisbon to Madrid certainly ticks that box. 

Some years ago, the overnight train service meant you fell asleep in Portugal and woke up the next day in the Spanish capital. While it was certainly quicker than the current route, it also meant you saw none of the incredible views and charming towns that rolled past the carriage window.

Take the time to explore parts of Portugal and Spain you've never seen before on a delightful journey full of new discoveries – you'll never regret it.

Wave goodbye to Lisbon

Although it’s not immediately apparent on the ticket, the Portuguese leg of the trip isn't direct and requires a transfer in the town of Entroncamento. I board a train that departs from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia station at 7:45am – a commuter train, which means no assigned seating nor cafe car. We depart, and the train hugs the left bank of the Tagus River, which narrows as we head north, the landscape shifting from industrial-feeling suburbs outside Lisbon to marshy fields after an hour or so. Around Vale de Figueira, the view changes to rolling hills, oak trees and the occasional vineyard estate. We pull into Entroncamento around two hours later and I only have a few minutes to quickly transfer to my next train.

A quick change at Entroncamento and on to the next stage

Upon arrival in Entroncamento at 9:28am, I board my ride to the Spanish border town of Badajoz : a two-carriage commuter train that’s such a bright shade of green it’s like a cartoon. On this humble train, I enjoy the most beautiful leg of the trip as we rattle through a landscape that is typically Alentejo (the region considered Portugal’s rural heartland): rolling hills populated by cattle and oak trees, whitewashed villages, former farmhouses, the occasional bullfighting ring and even an abandoned castle. The train is nearly empty, and I’m able to stretch my legs and walk around the caboose to take photos at will. After nearly three hours, we cross a tiny, unremarkable stream – and, without ceremony, we’re in Spain . Badajoz’s train station, the location of my next and final transfer, is only a few minutes away.

Wander through the charming streets of Badajoz

If your train from Entroncamento is on time, it’s possible to make an almost direct transfer to a Madrid-bound train. But I wanted the chance to have lunch and explore Badajoz, so I opted for a later departure, giving me nearly four hours to burn in this historic city.

The train station is in the new part of town, just west of the Guadiana River, a 15-minute walk to the more interesting old town. I exit the station, head south on Avenida Carolina Coronado, cross the 15th-century Puente de Palmas footbridge and enter town via the Puerta de Palmas, a 16th-century fortification.

I arrive at around 2pm – exactly when museums such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Badajoz and the Museo Extremeño e Iberoamericano de Arte Contemporáneo take their daily 2pm to 5pm siesta. But lunch is just kicking off at this hour, and there are a few interesting options in town. I opt for tortilla española and morcilla (blood sausage) at La Corchuela , an ancient, bullfighting-themed bar and restaurant located in the heart of the old city (the almost space-age Galaxia , is a more upscale option located slightly farther outside the city center).

After lunch, I explore Badajoz’s ancient center on foot, taking in the scene at Plaza de la Soledad and the Plaza de España, the over-the-top architecture such as the Giralda de Badajoz and the narrow paths that lead to the Plaza Alta and its trippy Moorish architecture. I ultimately emerge at the northern end of town, at the Alcazaba . This 12th-century Moorish citadel is the largest in Spain, and today functions as both archaeological site and public park. It’s possible to explore the gardens within the walls, as well as walk along the ramparts, which offer great views of town and the river. 

From the Alcazaba, I return to the river and cross the Puerta de Palmas back to the station to catch my final train.

The final leg before Madrid

At 5:36pm, I board the train to Madrid. Operated by Renfe , this is a modern, high-speed carriage with comfortable seats equipped with power outlets, an onboard movie and cafe car. Slicing through Spain’s Extremadura region, the view takes the form of seemingly endless olive plantations with the rocky Sierra de Gredos forming a backdrop; at Mérida ’s train station, I spot the remains of a Roman aqueduct. It gets dark and I fall asleep, only waking as we pull into Madrid’s hectic Atocha station at 10pm. Approximately 13 hours after having boarded my first train in Lisbon, I have reached my destination.

How to make it happen

Trains are operated by two different, unlinked entities: Comboios de Portugal and Renfe. This means you’ll need to book two sets of tickets to cover both countries.

Food and drink on the journey

The trains on the Portuguese side are commuter or regional trains and don’t have cafe cars. The Badajoz to Madrid train has a dining car that serves basic bites and drinks. There is a cafe at Badajoz’s train station that serves basic snacks and drinks.

There are no luggage lockers in Badajoz’s train station – traveling with a compact case or backpack will make exploring the city a lot easier. Wi-fi is not available in the stations or on the trains.

Travel disruption

In the last couple years, strikes led by employees of the state-run Comboios de Portugal (CP) have led to the cancellation of as many as half the country’s trains on multiple occasions. Before buying tickets, do a quick search or check CP’s website to see if a strike is in progress or about to happen.

This article was first published Apr 21, 2023 and updated Jun 14, 2024.

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