Easy Day trips from Madrid, discover these other close by destinations
Madrid makes a fantastic base to discover so many other destinations that are an easy day trip from the city. In an hour or less, you can get to visit most of these historic and cultural attractions, towns and cities and even extend it out to longer timeframes. You will love exploring by train, bus or even rental cars to get to these fantastic locations when you want to explore more places outside of the capital city.
I love traveling outside of Madrid and taking as many easy day trips to unique historical and beautiful areas a short drive from the city. Mostly taking regional trains to get to these locations, I typically just take local buses or walk around each destination or maybe a taxi if the weather is not idea which it typically is during the springtime when I usually visit.
Here are some of my recommendations and other fellow travel writers of places to visit on a short-day trip from Madrid.
Explore Toledo
This short train ride feels more like a suburb trip and takes less than 33 minutes by local AVN train to get to the historic city of Toledo. Once the ancient capital city of Toledo this is an easy day trip for most visitors to the area. Filled with historic sites and architecture that includes Jewish, Moorish and Catholic monuments. Art is featured with famous art of El Greco and Vlazquez is showcased in major churches and museums.
It’s easy to walk around the historic central district and see all the well preserved attractions, public squares, vista points and other important venues.
How to get to Toledo by train: You can easily AVN trains make the 33-minute trip from Madrid’s main train station at Atocha-Almudena Grandes station hourly. From the Toledo rail station is a 20-minute walk below the centre, you can take a bus to the main square or fast taxi service to different parts of the city.
Must-see: Although it costs around 10 euros to enter, Toledo’s Cathedral is easily one of Europe’s best with a ornate interior, amazing art to include Transparente and El Greco’s, The Disrobing of Christ. Other must do’s include visiting the impressive Alcazar, the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes and so many churches to count around the historic city that are cool to explore and enter.
Insider tips: Crowds of tourists fill Toledo during the day, especially in summer, so visiting early and staying later will allow more time to explore. The best option is to stay overnight or longer to have more time to explore and really absorb the vibe of the city.
Check out these posts to visiting Toledo below:
Another option is to take a guided group tour of Toledo
Visit to Segovia, Spain
Located in the heart of the Castile and León region, Segovia is one of the most historic cities in Spain. From exploring picturesque castles to a historic aqueduct, there are plenty of amazing tourist attractions in Segovia. Furthermore, the Old Town of Segovia is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Also, this city is an easy train ride away from the capital city of Madrid. Catch a train from Madrid Chamartín station, and within half an hour, you will reach Segovia.
One of the main highlights of Segovia is the iconic Roman Aqueduct. This amazing feat of engineering was built around the middle of the first century. It used to carry water from the Frío River to the city.
Another must-visit attraction in Segovia is the Alcazar, a magnificent fairy-tale-like fortress. This historic building is believed to be one of the inspirations for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Also, this castle has a fascinating history. It had served as a royal palace, a state prison, and a military academy. For one of the finest views of the Alcazar, take a short stroll to Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos.
Segovia Cathedral, the last Gothic cathedral of Spain, lies in the Plaza Mayor. Step inside and discover some stunning stained glass windows, intricate altarpieces, and beautiful cloisters.
Inside tip – Food lovers can sample some local dishes at the popular Restaurante José María.
Another option is to take a guided group tour of Segovia
Day trip to Avila, Spain
A historic and well preserved walled 12th century city with Romanesque and gothic churches and other historic monuments to visit. The trip to Avila is only 68 miles or 110 km west of Madrid and Atocha train station. Walking down the picturesque promenades, squares and venues is an easy way to enjoy a day in Avila.
How to get to Avila by train: You should take the fast TRN trains from Madrid’s Chamartin Station and takes about 1.5 hours to Avila. Regional trains leave less frequently and take 2 hours. Avila’s station is a 15-minute walk east of the walled city and can be reached through public transportation or taxi services at the station.
Must-see: There are over 88 semi-circular towers that protect the old city and nine gates which are a must see. Built in the Romanesque style of the 11th to 14th century, these are great to experience and capture in photographs. Make sure to visit Avila cathedral which is the first gothic cathedral that was built in Spain
Insider tips: You can walk the walls of the city ramparts for just a few euros and also explore the impressive gates like the Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta del Alcazar.
Another option is to take a guided group tour of Avila
Visit El Escorial
Surrounded by the Guadarrama mountains, the trip from Atocha train station to San Lorenzo de El Escorial is under an hour by regional train service. The main attraction to visit is the royal site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a large complex done in Renaissance style to include a famous library, palaces, monastery, basilica, pantheon and gardens.
How to get to San Lorenzo de El Escorial from Madrid:
The easiest and fastest is taking the regional C3a Cercanias train from Madrid’s Charmartin Station to San Lorenzo El Escorcial.
You can take bus 554 several times daily from Moncloa station and taking you to El Escorial city center.
Another option is to take a guided group tour of El Escorial.
Check out my post on a day trip to El Escorial for more details and information on visiting this historic city.
Alcalá de Henares
Here’s another fun fact for you – Alcalá de Henares was the birthplace of Don Quixote writer, Cervantes.
It’s also where you can find the oldest theater in Spain, the Corral de Comedias.
If you’re looking for a town with nonstop sightseeing, then there are better Madrid day trip options. But if you’re hoping to take slow picturesque strolls down a historic Spanish town, Alcalá de Henares is the perfect place.
While there, make sure you don’t leave without seeing Laredo Palace, the Calle Mayor, the Cervantes Museum, and Alcalá University.
How to get to Alcalá de Henares from Madrid:
Take the C2 or C7 Cercanías train from Atocha and arrive in Alcalá de Henares 40 minutes later.
Check out my post on a day trip to Alcala de Henares for more details and information on visiting this historic city.
Another option is to take a guided group tour of Alcala de Henares
Aranjuez
The historic city of Aranjuez is an easy train ride from Madrid’s Atocha station around 40 minutes, making it an easy day trip from the city. The main attraction to this Unesco World Heritage site is the Royal Palace of Aranjuez which is a smaller scale modeled after Versailles even with its own hall of mirrors.
The alliance treaty against England was signed here with King Charles IV and Napoleon.
Outside of visiting the palace, it’s worthwhile to visit the palace gardens and also visit the town sitting next to the palace along with various squares, parks, beautiful architecture and churches and even visiting the local markets and having a nice meal in town.
How to get to Aranjuez from Madrid:
There are two main options on getting to Aranjuez, and they both take around 40 minutes: the 423 bus from Estación Sur Coach Station, and the C3 Cercanías train from Atocha Station.
By Train (Fastest & Most Convenient)
- Take a Renfe Cercanías (C-3 line) from Atocha Station to Aranjuez.
- The journey takes about 45 minutes.
- Trains run frequently, approximately every 15-30 minutes.
- Ticket price: Around €4-€6 one way.
By Bus (Alternative Option)
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- Intercity buses (line 423) run from Estación Sur (Méndez Álvaro) in Madrid to Aranjuez.
- The trip takes about 50-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Tickets cost around €4-€5.
Another option is to take a fast track entry to Aranjuez palace
Historic Cordoba
You can easily visit historic Cordoba city by fast Ave trains about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Travel to Córdoba is easy on fast AVe trains which take about 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore its iconic Mosque-Cathedral, flower-lined courtyards, and vibrant festivals to experience.
Córdoba, a city rich in history and culture, is best known for the stunning Mezquita-Catedral, a breathtaking blend of Islamic and Christian architecture. Strolling through the Jewish Quarter (Judería) offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and the famous Calleja de las Flores, a picturesque alley adorned with colorful blooms. The Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, with its beautiful gardens and Moorish-style courtyards, is another must-visit. Córdoba is also home to the impressive Roman Bridge, which provides stunning views of the city, and the Patios of Córdoba, a UNESCO-recognized tradition where locals decorate their courtyards with vibrant flowers, especially during the annual Patios Festival in May.
How to get to Cordoba
Getting to Córdoba from Madrid is quick and convenient. The high-speed AVE train departs from Madrid’s Atocha Station and reaches Córdoba in just under two hours, making it an ideal day trip. Tickets can be booked in advance through Renfe, Spain’s national rail service. Alternatively, long-distance buses take around four to five hours, offering a more budget-friendly option. For those preferring to drive, the A-4 highway connects Madrid to Córdoba, covering the 400 km (250-mile) journey in about four hours.
Check out these posts on Visiting Cordoba here
Day trip from Seville to Cordoba
Another option is taking a high speed train to Cordoba with guided tour
Guadalajara
A unique visit to the small city of Guadalajara which is an easy day trip from Spain’s Chamartin train station. Within the historic city you can visit the 14th century Torija Castle and the Palacio del Infantado completed in Gothic style. Other important and unique architecture includes the Pantheon or the Duchess of Sevillano, the cathedral of Guadalajara and even the unique Guadalajara Zoo.
How to get to Guadalajara, Spain
By Train (Fastest Option)
- Take a Renfe Cercanías (C-2 or C-8 line) from Madrid’s Chamartín Station to Guadalajara.
- The journey takes 40-50 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
- Ticket prices are around €4-€6 one way.
Arrival train station: Guadalajara-Yebes
Journey time: about 40-50 minutes
Visit to Brihuega
Escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid and immerse yourself in the stunning lavender fields of Brihuega, a picturesque town just an hour away by car or bus.
Known as the “Garden of La Mancha,” Brihuega’s idyllic landscape, dotted with vibrant lavender blooms, offers the perfect day trip destination. The scenic journey takes about an hour from Madrid, giving you time to relax and soak in the views.
Once you arrive, the town’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, or you can rent a bike to cover more ground.
Start your visit by delving into Brihuega’s rich history. Key landmarks include the Castle of Piedra Bermeja and the Prado de Santa María, both showcasing the town’s deep cultural heritage. Half a day is plenty of time to tour these highlights before turning your attention to Brihuega’s star attraction—the lavender fields.
If you visit in July, don’t miss the Lavender Festival, a magical celebration filled with live music, delicious food, and artisanal lavender products like essential oils and soaps to take home.
After the festivities, wander through Brihuega’s charming streets and admire its traditional Spanish architecture. Be sure to stop at Plaza Mayor, the town’s central square, and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant featuring fresh, regional flavors.
The crowning moment of your trip will undoubtedly be the lavender fields themselves. The best time to see them in full bloom is from mid-June to late July. You can either join a guided tour or explore the fields at your own pace.
By Stephanie from BeyofTravel
Experience Chinchon
Check out these other posts to visiting Madrid
If you are looking to explore more of the capital city of Madrid, check out my other posts to visiting historic, cultural sites and cool places to explore around the city below.
Visiting Retiro park in Madrid
Conclusion for Day trips from Madrid
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