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Arriving a bit early or staying on after the General Assembly?
If you feel like escaping the buzz of Madrid for a day —which can be a bit overwhelming at times— and discovering some of the most beautiful and historic places nearby, here are four excellent day trip ideas to inspire you. These four jewels of Spain’s historical and cultural heritage are also recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Toledo, City of Three Cultures
Perched on the banks of the River Tagus in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, Toledo is a city steeped in history, where walking through its narrow, cobbled streets truly feels like stepping back in time. Its walled old town bears witness to centuries of coexistence between Christians, Jews and Muslims, creating a unique cultural and architectural legacy.
Highlights include the majestic Primatial Cathedral, the Alcázar (now home to a military museum), the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, and the El Greco Museum, a true gem of Spain’s artistic heritage.
Toledo is just an hour from Madrid by bus or traine (directions), making it a perfect day trip. You can find more information about the city here.
Segovia and La Granja de San Ildefonso
From the iconic Roman Aqueduct to the striking Casa de los Picos, and from the fairy-tale Alcázar and the Gothic Cathedral of Santa María to the ancient city walls and the San Andrés Gate, Segovia boasts a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Elegant and understated, this Castilian city is also known as the national capital of roast suckling pig. You can find more information at this link and directions to reach Segovia easily by train here.
Just outside the city lies the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, a magnificent palace complex commissioned by King Philip V in the 18th century. Located in the Royal Site of San Ildefonso, it features vast French-style gardens adorned with monumental fountains. The palace is just 80 kilometres from Madrid and easily accessible by bus from Segovia. Further information is available here.
Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
A masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture, the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial was commissioned by King Philip II following his victory at the Battle of Saint Quentin in 1557. Located in the Guadarrama mountain range, around 45 kilometres from Madrid, this monumental complex serves as a monastery, royal palace, basilica, library, school and the royal pantheon of Spanish monarchs from Charles I onwards.More information.
The monastery gives its name to the charming town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. It's not only a beautiful place to visit, but also holds a special place in the life of Universidad Complutense, which hosts its prestigious annual summer courses there.
The town is easily accessible from Madrid by bus or train.
The Palace and Gardens of Aranjuez
Aranjuez is home to one of Spain’s most stunning royal residences. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez, once a spring retreat for the Spanish monarchs, is surrounded by vast gardens inspired by French and Italian landscaping traditions, filled with fountains, sculptures and leafy promenades that make for a truly memorable visit.
The town itself, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape, combines history, charm and nature in equal measure. It’s also famous for its strawberries and asparagus, celebrated every spring in local festivals and markets.
Aranjuez is just under an hour from Madrid and can be easily reached by commuter train (Cercanías C-3 line) or bus. More information.
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