Looking for a the perfect day trip from Madrid? Then you’ve arrived to the correct place. In this blog, I will share the best things to do in Toledo, a breathtaking city located just a short train or bus ride away from Spain’s capital.
Toledo is known as the “City of Three Cultures” due to its rich Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage. A day trip to Toledo will offer you an incredible mix of historical landmarks, charming streets and unforgettable views. Whether you’re drawn to its impressive cathedral, ancient fortresses, or traditional marzipan treats, this UNESCO-listed city is an absolute must-visit.
Wandering trought Toledo feels like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone alleys, towering city walls, and centuries-odl buildings at every turn. From the magnificient Toledo Cathedral, one of Spain’s most stunning Gothic masterpieces, to the iconic Alcazar of Toledo, a fortress with panoramic views, the city is full of hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Art lovers can admire works by the famous painter El Greco, while foodies can indulge in local specialties like carcamusas (a delicious slow-cooked pork dish). No matter what you’re looking for, Toledo is a must-visit destination just an hour away from Madrid!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT TOLEDO
Toledo is, without any doubt, the most popular day trip to do from Madrid. Every day, plenty of visitors, get on the bus or train in order to visit this enchanting city just an hour away from Madrid. Most people have heard of the magnificent Toledo Cathedral or the impressive Alcazar. However, here are some interesting facts about Toledo that you might not know.
- Toledo is known as “The City of Three Cultures”. There was once a time in which Christians, Jews, and Muslims lived together in harmony in the city. This led to a rich cultural exchange and the development of a unique architectural style.
- The famous Greek painter El Greco, lived in Toledo for a big part of his life.
- Toledo is known for its high-quality stee which was used to make swords and other types of knifes for centuries.
HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED TO VISIT TOLEDO?
Toledo makes for the perfect day trip from Madrid. In just one day, you will be able to enjoy the city’s most famous sites. However, you will not be able to see everything that I will list in this blog, in just one day. You will have to choose the sites that interest you the most.
If you want to visit every site listed in this blog, you’ll have to stay at least for two days in Toledo (1 night).
GETTING TO TOLEDO
Toledo is located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula, just 69 km away from Madrid. Gettting there is relatively easy since it has excellent connections via highway, bus, and train. It is even served by the AVE (high-speed train) from Madrid.
💡If you want to visit Toledo from Madrid without having to worry about the logistics of getting there and planning your visit, you can join a Guided Tour to Toledo from Madrid. All you will have to worry about is having a great time!
🚗 BY CAR
Madrid and Toledo are connected by the A42 free highway. The drive there will take you around 40 minutes depending on traffic.
🅿️ Parking: The streets in the center of Toledo are quite narrow and difficult to drive. I recommend you park your car at the big Safont Parking Lot, which is located just outside the city walls.
🚉 BY TRAIN
For those who prefer not to drive, the train is an excellent option. The Avant high-speed train line connects Madrid and Toledo in just 34 minutes which is very comfortable. Book your Avant train tickets at Renfe website.
Once you are at the Toledo train station, you you will have to walk for 15 minutes to reach the city walls. From there, be prepared to a steep uphill to the city center.
🚌 BY BUS
You can also reach Toledo by bus. Buses that go to Toledo, depart from Plaza Eliptica bus station and the ride will take approximately 45 minutes to reach the city. You can book your bus tickets here.
TOLEDO TOURIST WRISTBAND
Toledo Tourist Wristband provides you entrance at a discount rate to 7 of the city’s most famous sites:
- San Juan de los Reyes Monastery
- Santa María La Blanca Synagogue
- El Salvador Church
- Santo Tomé Church
- Cristo de la Luz Mosque
- Jesuist’s Church
- Royal College of Noble Maidens
The wristband is valide for 7 days after the purchase so if you’re visiting the city for more than 1 day, you should definitely consider buying it.
THE 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOLEDO
Here is the list of the 15 best things to do in Toledo (in no particular order). At the end of this blog, I pinned them all in a map to help you locate them and plan your visit to this beautiful city.
1. CROSS THE "PUERTA DE LA BISAGRA" (tHE hINGE gATE) and "Puerta del Sol" (The Sun Gate)
Puerta de la Bisagra (which translates into English as the “Hinge Gate”) is one of the gates that allowed access inside the city walls during the Mediaval times. On the inside part of the gate there are two impressive surveillance towers.
Puerta del Sol (in English the “Sun Gate”) is a second gate inside the city walls which is also very beautiful in Mudejar style.
2. VISIT THE MOSQUE OF CRISTO DE LA LUZ
The Mosque of Cristo de la Luz is one of Toledo’s reminders of the city’s rich multiculturla past. Built in the year 999, this small yet beautifully preserved mosque is the oldest standing Islamic monument in Toledo. Its intricate brickwork, horseshoe arches, and delicate geometric designs are very elegant.
After the Christian reconquest, the mosque was converted into a chapel, blending Islamic and Christian influences in a unique way.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the mosque cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: The mosque is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
3. GET IMPRESSIVE VIEWS OF TOLEDO FROM THE JESUITS CHURCH (IGLESIA DE LOS JESUITAS)
The Jesuits Church is a baroque church built in the 18th century. The church is also known as the Church of San Ildefonso (the patront saint of Toledo) as it was built on the birthplace of this Saint.
The church has two twin towers, more than 50 meters high that are connected by an outdoor terrace. From here you will be rewarded with impressive views over Toledo‘s historic center.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the Jesuits Church cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: This church is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From April to September it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from October to March between 10:00 and 17:45.
4. VISIT THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF NOBLE MAIDENS
The Royal College of Noble Maidens (Real Colegio de Doncellas Nobles) is one of Toledo’s lesser-known historical sites. Founded in the 16th century by Cardinal Juan Martinez Siliceo, this institution was created to educate young women to be good mothers and to give them a Christian education. Despite its name, the students of this school were both from humble and noble families.
The building was built in Renaissance style with elegant courtyards and impressive stoneworks. A visit to this beautiful site will include several rooms of the school, the courtyard, the beautiful 19th century Art Nouveau passageway connecting the two buildings and the marble tomb of Cardinal Silíceo.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the Royal College cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: It is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
5. ADMIRE THE BEAUTIFUL MONASTERY OF SAN JUAN DE LOS REYES
The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes is one of Toledo’s most stunning architectural treasures and a must-visit when in the city. Built in the 15th century by the Catholic Monarchs, Isabel I of Castille and Fernando II of Aragon, this breathtaking monastery was meant to celebrate their victory in the Battle of Toro in 1476. It was dedicated to Saint John in memory of her father Juan II and their son Prince Juan.
The Monastery was built in Gothic style and it is full of symbolism of their reign, their beliefs and their politics. For example, from the walls of the monastery, you can see hanging the chains carried by the Christian slaves of the nasrid kingdom in Granada.
The cloister of the Monastery is absolutely stunning and peaceful. You will not regret including this site in your visit to Toledo.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the monastery cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: It is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
6. ENJOY ART AT EL GRECO MUSEUM
This museum is completely dedicated to the art of the Greek painter, Domenikos Theotokópulos, or as it was mostly known El Greco. The museum is located in the former house where he used to live and you can find many of his masterpieces as well as other 17th century painters.
Even though El Greco’s most famous masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz is not in display in this museum, it is still worth visiting it if you are interested in art.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the museum cost 3 € per person. On Sundays and on Saturdays (only after 14:00), the museum can be accessed for free.
- Opening Hours: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and it is closed on Mondays. From March to October it is open between 9:30 and 19:30 and from November to February between 9:30 and 18:00. On Sundays and bank holidays, it is only open between 10:00 and 15:00.
7. Visit the synagogue of santa maria la blanca
The Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca is another must-see place in Toledo! Built in the 12th century, it is the oldest existing synagogue in Europe. It was the main synagogue in Toledo until the year 1411 when it was converted into a Christian temple.
The synagogue gets its name from a carving of a virgin in the building,which was made as copy of the one existing in the choir of Toledo’s Cathedral. The synagogue is full of whitewash arches and columns with intricate designs. And in addition, its garden is also a very peaceful area with more than 700 years old cypress trees.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the synagogue cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: It is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
8. VISIT EL SALVADOR cHURCH (THE CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR)
El Salvador Church is another example of the blend of cultures in Toledo. This building was initially built as a Visigoth church, then transformed into a mosque and later, converted again into a church. Your visit to this building will allow you to admire the Visigoth columns that are still standing, as well as the roman excavations that have been buried out.
It is also possible to go up its tower to admire Toledo from a different point of view.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the church cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: It is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
9. ADMIRE EL GRECO'S MOST FAMOUS PIECE AT SANTO TOMÉ CHURCH
Santo Tomé Church is worth a visit if you want to see El Greco’s most famous art “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz”. This masterpiece is one of the few unirversal paintings that can still be admired in the place for which it was created. The painting represents a portrait of Castilian Society at the time of El Greco.
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the church cost 4 € per person.
- Tourist Wristband: It is one of the seven monuments included in the Toledo Tourist Wristband.
- Opening Hours: From March to October it is open between 10:00 and 18:45 and from November to February between 10:00 and 17:45.
10. RELAX AT PLAZA DE ZOCODOVER
Plaza de Zocodover is the main square and the living heart of Toledo. It is surrounded by charming cafés, restaurants, and shops, making it a great spot to grap a coffee, soak in the atmosphere, and do a little people-watching.
11. TASTE SOME MARZIPAN
Marzipan (in Spanish Mazapán) is a local sweet traditional from Toledo. Marzipan is made from ground almonds, sugar, honey, and eggs.
You will find plenty of shops in Toledo where you can buy and taste some marzipan, but the most famous ones is probably Santo Tomé, located in Plaza de Zocodover. This confectionary has been making marzipan pastries since 1856.
12. VISIT THE ALCAZAR OF TOLEDO
The Alcazar is a stone fortication located on the highest point in Toledo, towering over the city. The building was originally built as Roman building and was later restored by Charles I (Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor) and his son Philip II. The Alcazar was severely damaged during the Spanihs Civil War but was fortunately rebuilt between 1939 and 1957.
Inside the Alcazar you will find the Army Museum, which holds a collection of weapons, uniforms, and medals. Personally, I don’t find very interesting this museum but I do think you should at least check out the Alcazar from the outside.
In addition, inside the Alcazar there is a cafeteria on one of the four towers with great views of Toledo. The cafeteria is nothing special, but the views are quite nice and access is completely free. Just one floor below the cafeteria, there is a public library where you can also get nice views of the surroundings of Toledo.
13. BE IMPRESSED BY TOLEDO'S CATHEDRAL
A visit to Toledo’s Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Toledo) is an absolute must for every visit to Toledo. Even if you’re not a big fan of visiting churches, this one will definitely impress you. It is considered to be one of the most impressive Gothic cathedral’s in Spain.
The construction of this magnificent cathedral began in 1226 and construction of the main Gothic nave was finished in 1493. However, it has been modified many times throughout the years.
A main sites to include in your visit to the Cathedral are:
- The Lions Gate (Puerta de los Leones)
- The Nave and its Baroque altarpiece, El Transparente
- The choir
- The cloister
- The Chapel of Saint Blaise and its magnificen ceiling
- The Chapter House
- The Sacristy
- The tower (unfortunately it is not possible to climb to the top anymore)
Practical information
- Price: Tickets to visit the cathedral cost 12 € per person.
- Opening Hours: The cathedral is open daily. From Monday to Saturday, it is open between 10:00 and 18:30. On Sunday’s it is open between 14:00 and 18:30.
13. VISIT THE CITY HALL
Right accross the cathedral, in the same square, you will find Toledo’s City Hall. Designed in the 17th century, this elegant building showcases a mix of Herrerian and Baroque styles, with its symmetrical façade and twin towers.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the interior of the building since it is an active government building. However, visitors can admire its exterior, soak in the lively atmosphere of the square where it is located.
14. ADMIRE THE VIEWS OF TOLEDO FROM aLCÁNTARA BRIDGE
If you go to Toledo by train, then Alcántara Bridge will most probably be your first contact with the city as it is located on the way to the city center from the train station. However, even if you don’t go to Toledo with the train, you should consider adding this bridge to your itinerary.
Spanning over the Tagus River, the bridge was originally built between 104 and 106 AD under the orders of Roman Emperor Trajan. However, the bridge that we see today is a reconstruction from 1860.
Right before the bridge, you will get impressive views of the Toledo and its Alcazar.
Photo by Thomas Haas on Unsplash
15. DO A ROUTE OF THE DIFFERENT VIEWPOINTS IN TOLEDO
The Best way to complete your visit to Toledo is to stop in one or more of the different viewpoints that are located outside the city and that provide beautiful views over the city’s historic center.
The most famous viewpoint of is the Valley Viewpoint (Mirador del Valle). The view of Toledo from here is so famous that this stop is included in many organized tours to the city.
The best way to reach these viewpoints is by car. Just drive the winding road tha connects them (TO-3100 Road) and stop at as many of them that you want. It is particularly pretty to visit these viewpoints at sunset.
Good to know: If you don’t have a car, it is still possible to reach the famous Mirador del Valle viewpoint. However, you have to be ready for a 25 minute uphill walk from Puente de Alcantara.
Photo by javier alamo rodriguez on Unsplash
ACCOMMODATION IN TOLEDO
Being originally from Madrid, I always visit Toledo as a day trip. However, I do think that staying overnight here, especially during the summer, would be interesting to get a more in depth visit of the city.
If I was going to spend a night in Toledo, here are some options I would choose for myself.
Hotel Hacienda del Cardenal
Charming hotel located just a few hundred meters away from the city center. The garden of the hotel is surrounded by an 11th century moorish wall which makes it even more enchanting. In addition, the hotel houses one of the most renowned restaurants in Toledo where you will be able to taste the local cuisine.
Photos from Booking.com
Parador de Toledo
If you want to treat yourself to a special stay in Toledo and don’t mind being a bit outside the city, then you have to book a night at the Parador de Toledo.
Parador the Toledo is just 4km outside of Toledo which offers stunning views of the city from the garden. The building is built in Mudejar style with contemporary touches. You will not forget your stay here.
Photos from Booking.com
MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.
And that’s it for this week’s blog. I hope you liked it and found it useful. Let me know what you think in the comments!
Happy travels!
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