Recently, we took a look some of what Spain's capital city has to offer
to the visitor. While Madrid offers something for just about everybody,
there's another aspect to local tourism which warrants a closer look: day trips
to all sorts of fascinating and varied venues, easily reachable by car,
train or bus.
Here's my personal list one day visits from Madrid
- Aranjuez
Lying some 40 km south of the city, just off the N-IV highway to Andalucia,
Aranjuez is quiet city along the banks of the Tajo (Tagus) River. The city
and its restaurants make it a worthwhile visit, but the real highlight
is the Royal Palace. The last royal resident was King Alfonso XIII, and
the huge building and palace grounds now serve as a permanent museum.
- El Escorial
While the name's not pretty (El Escorial means "the slag heap"),
the incredible monastery built by King Felipe II make this a great trip.
The town, some 40 km northwest of the city, is a popular summer residence
for many Madrid residents. The monastery, its medieval library, and the
royal mausoleum are interesting enough - but don't miss the excellent restaurants
and the nearby "Valle de los Caidos" (Valley of the Fallen) monument
to the Spanish Civil War dead.
- Segovia
The provincial capital of Segovia is some 90 km northwest of the city,
just across the Guadarrama mountain range. The city's 2,000 year old Roman
aqueduct, is the most striking monument, but don't miss the Cathedral and
the beautiful Alcazar Castle. Many say the world's best roast lamb and
suckling pig are prepared in the wood fired oven of Segovia - I for one
agree. Another worthwhile stop is La Granja - a short distance from Segovia
with its spectacular royal palace and gardens, and the old glass factory
museum. There are also high speed trains to Segovia.
- Toledo
Sitting some 50 km southeast of Madrid, the beautifully preserved medieval
city with its narrow streets and surrounding fortifications is a real must.
Things worth seeing include the Cathedral, El Greco Museum, and the Spanish
Inquisition Museum. Local specialties include marzipan, cutlery and handcrafted
gold on steel damask jewelry and nicknacks. There are also some excellent
restaurants around the city. There are also high speed trains to Toledo.
- Ávila
Located some 115 km from Madrid, the walled city of Ávila is an amazing place, one of my favorites.
It's not as crowded with tourists as Toledo or Segovia and is a delight to the eye with its narrow
cobblestone streets and well preserved stone architecture. Great spot for photos
and with excellent cuisine to boot:
El Almacén is my personal favorite, but there are plenty of other good dining
spots around town.
Information Links for Daytrips
TimeOut's Daytrips
The excellent TimeOut Guide offers good information on daytrips from
Madrid to these and other interesting spots, with maps and travel information.
