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Exploring Spain: The Best Day Trips from Madrid

Cosmopolitan Madrid may have a lot to offer visitors but the surrounding area is well worth exploring. Take a day trip from Madrid and encounter the "real" Spain, full of charm and historical highlights

The NH Housekeeper’s Tips

Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid, Spain’s capital city, is a treasure trove of cultural wonders, including stunning architecture, royal palaces, art galleries, museums, and fine dining. Yet visitors to Madrid should not limit themselves to staying in the city. For stays of more than a few days, it is highly recommended that you take the time to explore some of the excellent sights close to the city. While Madrid is an increasingly modern, cosmopolitan city, the “real” Spain is just a short journey away. Here is a rundown of some of the best places within easy reach of Madrid.

The Walled City of Avila

Just over an hour from Madrid is Avila, a medieval walled city that is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to the city is like stepping back in time. The highlight is the Walls of Avila, which were built between the 11th and 14th centuries and remain remarkably intact. The walls are illuminated at night, offering a viewing experience unlike anywhere else in Spain. The whole city has a charming medieval atmosphere, dotted with churches and a Gothic cathedral which dates back to 1107. After experiencing the busy streets of Madrid, this quiet, picturesque city will feel like a breath of fresh air.

Toledo - the Medieval Delight

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is around an hour from Madrid, Toledo is a historic city that travellers will relish. This is a city of winding, narrow streets, with ruins that date back more than 2000 years and architecture from the 13th century. There are many places to visit, such as the cathedral (located on top of the city’s hill and also home to an art gallery) and other places of worship, but the real adventure is found by just walking the streets. It is easy, and recommended, to get lost here - wherever you turn, you will stumble upon something that makes you think you are no longer in the 21st century.

Segovia - Roman Architecture Galore

Segovia is located 50 miles north of Madrid and is accessible in only 30 minutes via high speed train. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site; there are many fascinating architectural highlights, with the most famous being the Roman Aquaduct, one of the best preserved of its type in the world. Built in approximately 50AD, this is one of the most important Roman structures in all of Europe. It is quite a sight and is best appreciated from up high in the new town. Segovia also possesses such gems as the Alcazar, a royal palace which is nearly 1000 years old, and the cathedral, one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Spain. All in all, this is a beautiful city that again reveals shades of Spain’s storied past.

Manzanares el Real

Ancient cities might be the order of the day when it comes to day trips from Madrid, but it is not all about Roman buildings and picturesque medieval cities. Manzanares el Real, 45 minutes north of Madrid, is a small village of just 7000 people, and therein lies its charm. Untouched by mass tourism, this mountainous region is a delight to explore. Here you will find the best natural scenery near the capital, as well as a local way of life that is increasingly less common. The castle, built in 1475, is one of the best preserved in the country, while local festivals give the area a jubilant, yet relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The annual medieval festival is a highlight, as is the tasty tapas festival. It is also an outdoor recreation paradise, with hiking, skiing, climbing, cycling and much more all possible. After a few day of exploring cities, this will be a real delight.

Where to stay in Madrid

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NH Collection Palacio de Aranjuez
C/ San Antonio, 22,. 28300 Aranjuez
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2023 Certificate of Excellence

The NH Collection Palacio de Aranjuez has an unbeatable location in the historical part of the city center, right opposite the Royal Palace of Aranjuez. The hotel building is a showpiece itself, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

  • 0.68km Faluas Museum
  • 2.07km Labrador Home
  • 2.44km Príncipe Garden
  • 0.79km Aranjuez Bullring
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NH Madrid Las Tablas
Avenida de Burgos, 131,. 28050 Madrid
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The NH Madrid Las Tablas hotel is a striking, modern building in one of Madrid’s most prestigious areas. The hotel is 14 kilometers north of the city center, and is conveniently located for the nearby business parks. The location also puts you within easy reach of Madrid’s most famous sights, like the Prado.

  • 9.24km Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport
  • 10.05km Almudena Cathedral
  • 6.77km Avenida de America
  • 9.99km Caixaforum vertical garden
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