There’s no shortage of cities and towns near Madrid to visit easily in less than two and a half hours. From royal palaces to well-preserved walls to natural scenery, these places are must-haves on your Spain bucket list and easy day trips from the capital (my favorite city!). Let’s go!
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may show pop-ups.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.
Quick suggestions for your Madrid trip:
Highly-rated day tours from Madrid:
1. Segovia and Toledo, must-visit UNESCO cities
2. Alcala de Henares, Miguel de Cervantes’ birthplace
3. El Escorial, one of the top royal sites in Spain
4. Cuenca and the Enchanted City, an intriguing historic city and a unique natural landmark
5. Guadarrama National Park, including the Castle of Manzanares el Real
6. Avila and Salamanca, two more magnificent UNESCO cities
Top experiences in Madrid:
1. Four different FREE walking tours of Madrid
2. Wine and tapas food tour
3. Guided tour of the Royal Palace
4. A combo ticket to the museums of Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza (valid for one year)
Highly-rated accommodations in Madrid:
1. Woohoo Rooms Boutique Sol (mid-range), a stone’s throw away from the central Puerta del Sol
2. Oriente Palace Apartments (mid-range/luxury), uniquely decorated and situated right next to the Royal Palace
3. 7 Islas Hotel (mid-range/boutique) situated a stone’s throw away from Gran Via
Charming Towns and Cities Near Madrid to Visit – Map
Note that most of these places can be reached by train from the stations of Chamartin, Atocha, or Príncipe Pío. Some train rides require a seat reservation, so it’s best to purchase your tickets in advance (I personally love using Omio for that).
Note that travel times can change depending on the train you book – some are high-speed. Other spots are reachable by bus or car.
Access the map here (some cities are not as close to Madrid as others, but you can reach them in less than two hours).
Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).
18 Cities and Small Towns Near Madrid to Visit
Toledo
Known as the “City of the Three Cultures” for preserving its Jewish, Christian, and Muslim heritage, Toledo is an intriguing UNESCO city (and a former capital of Spain) located only 35 minutes from Madrid by train.
Throughout the years, it was ruled by the Romans, Moors, and the Kingdoms of León and Castile, and it was also home to a flourishing Jewish community in the Middle Ages, making its landmarks popular tourist attractions.
These include many awe-inspiring medieval monuments like the fortress-like Alcázar de Toledo, Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca (turned into a church), Synagogue of El Tránsito, Toledo Cathedral, Castle of San Servando, Puerta de Bisagra, and Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.
You also shouldn’t miss the El Greco Museum and the views seen from the Mirador del Valle, a lookout point overlooking the city and the Tagus River.
If you love shopping for souvenirs, be sure to look for Toledo’s infamous marzipan, Damascene jewelry or decorative items, and Manchego cheese.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Toledo or opt for a guided Toledo day tour or a Segovia & Toledo day tour.
Segovia
Known for its UNESCO-listed center, Segovia is one of the most fascinating places to visit near Madrid, steeped in history and packed with enchanting alleys and squares waiting to be roamed.
It is home to three of the most impressive landmarks in Spain – the Roman-era aqueduct, the Segovia Cathedral, and the Alcázar of Segovia, each transporting you to a different era.
Every monument also has something extra unique about it –
- The Roman aqueduct is one of the best preserved in the world.
- The medieval Alcazar (which served as a royal residence of the Castilian monarchs) was one of the inspirations for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
- The Segovia Cathedral was the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain.
Also notable are the Moorish city walls, the Jewish quarter, and the countless scenic viewpoints you can find in and around the city (don’t miss Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos).
If you’re here with a car, you can also visit the 18th-century Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, situated only 15 minutes away. Otherwise, a high-speed train will take you from Madrid to Segovia in about 30 minutes.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Segovia or opt for a guided Segovia & Toledo day tour.
Avila
By Penny from Globe Trove
Not everyone has Avila on their bucket list, but don’t be fooled, you really should think about visiting the walled city when you’re looking for cities in Spain near Madrid.
Luckily, Avila is just a little over 100 km away from the capital, which means that it is easy to visit as part of a one-day trip from Madrid because it takes just 1 hour of driving time (or an hour and a half by train)!
The walled city of Avila is known for its walls and its famous churches and cathedral. The most famous among these however is the St. Teresa of Avila church.
The church is a pilgrimage spot of sorts for Christians from all over the world because of its connection with the Carmelite order of sisters. St. Teresa is also the patron saint of the city.
If you visit Avila, walk through the cobbled roads and take in the centuries-old buildings. Catch a meal at one of the many cute local restaurants. Don’t forget to walk along the top of the city’s walls for some really unparalleled views.
You will find that many people combine this trip with a visit to Segovia. This is because you can easily walk all around Avila in an hour or two.
Segovia is also close by so it makes the perfect combination if you are looking for great places to explore near Madrid.
Purchase your train ticket from Madrid to Avila or book a guided Avila & Segovia tour or an Avila & Salamanca tour.
Manzanares El Real
By Gabriele from The Lithuanian Abroad
Another perfect one-day destination you can visit close to Madrid is Manzanares el Real.
This beautiful town is located just 50 kilometers North of Madrid (reachable by bus 724 from Plaza Castilla) and offers the perfect mixture of nature, history, and culture.
The highlight of your visit will be the Manzanares Castle. This medieval fortress dates back to the 15th century and is one of the town’s most popular monuments.
You can enjoy the well-preserved rooms of this castle and go up the towers to enjoy the breathtaking views over the surrounding area.
Manzanares el Real is also the perfect place to visit for nature enthusiasts and hiking lovers! There are countless outdoor activities you can do in the nearby Santillana Reservoir, including fishing, boating, and hiking.
When visiting Manzanares el Real, do not forget to try out the amazing local cuisine.
Sample one of their local dishes, such as the “cocido madrileño”. This chickpea stew is the perfect dish to try during the cold months, as it will truly warm you up from the inside.
Make sure to add a glass of fine Spanish wine to your order to have the complete local culinary experience.
All in all, Manzanares el Real is the ideal place to visit from Madrid for a day. You will be surprised to see this beautiful town surrounded by untouched nature so close to the capital. It will be truly an unforgettable experience!
If you don’t want to get there independently by bus, book a guided day tour to the castle and the Guadarrama National Park.
Cuenca
By Jacoba from Opreis Met Co
Cuenca is a beautiful historic town about 170 kilometers east of Madrid. Traveling to Cuenca from Madrid is quite easy. You can catch a high-speed train at Atocha station, and in about 1 hour, you’ll reach your destination.
Cuenca is mostly famous because of the hanging houses, the “Casas Colgadas,” which have been clinging to the cliffs for centuries. These 15th-century architectural wonders are UNESCO-listed and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
When you’re there, make sure to explore the old town, visit Cuenca Cathedral, and go for a walk across the historic San Pablo Bridge, which hangs 60 meters above a canyon.
Also, the city is built on cliffs, so there are many great viewpoints to check out, one even better than the other.
If you like hiking, you’ll also love visiting Cuenca. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature, natural parks, and mountains that provide excellent hiking opportunities. It’s also a great destination for rock climbers.
All in all, Cuenca is a wonderful destination for a day trip or a weekend trip from Madrid.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Cuenca or opt for a guided Cuenca day tour.
El Escorial
By Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Just a short drive or train ride from Madrid, El Escorial awaits you with its rich history and architectural grandeur. It’s a must-see on your trip to Madrid.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a captivating blend of monastery, palace, and mausoleum, making it a destination not to be missed.
History buffs will be captivated by the origins of El Escorial, built in the 16th century by King Philip II.
This imposing complex was designed as a symbol of Spanish power, housing a grand basilica, royal apartments, and an extensive library, reflecting the magnificence of the Spanish Empire during its peak.
When you explore El Escorial, take advantage of the stunning frescoes, intricate chapels, and the royal pantheon, where many Spanish monarchs rest in eternal slumber. The beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for a stroll.
While in the vicinity, consider visiting the Valley of the Fallen, a controversial monument built by Francisco Franco.
This massive basilica and mausoleum is carved into a mountain and houses the remains of those who died during the Spanish Civil War. It’s a thought-provoking addition to your El Escorial trip, offering insight into Spain’s complex history.
You can take a train from Madrid to San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a convenient and scenic journey.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to El Escorial or opt for a guided El Escorial tour.
Alcala de Henares
Easily reachable from Atocha and Chamartin stations by lines C2 and C7 (there’s no need to book tickets in advance), which belong to the suburban train system Cercanias Madrid, Alcala de Henares is one of the best cities to visit near Madrid.
Mostly known as the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, its historic center and its university (one of the oldest in the world, founded in the 15th century) are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Alcala is packed with fascinating points of interest like the stunning Plaza de Cervantes, Calle Mayor (which was once the Jewish quarter’s main street), the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cervantes Birthplace Museum (where the novelist was born and raised).
You can also step back further in time by visiting the Regional Archaeological Museum or exploring Alcala’s Roman history at the complex of the Roman City of Complutum and the House of Hippolytus.
If you’re here at the beginning of October, you could attend Cervantes Week (Semana Cervantina), a unique medieval festival dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes.
If you don’t want to get there independently by train, book a guided half-day tour of Alcala de Henares.
Aranjuez
By Michael from Time Travel Turtle
There was a time when you wouldn’t have been able to visit Aranjuez, one of the most beautiful places near Madrid.
Just 40 kilometers south of the capital, it had been one of the official residences of the Spanish Royal Family since the 16th century – their home in spring, to be exact – and commoners were not welcome!
Now, though, the town is a perfect day trip, and the Aranjuez Royal Palace is the highlight. Inside, the rooms are decorated in luxurious detail, each like an art gallery with a different style.
The Porcelain Room is particularly impressive, with walls covered in white porcelain reliefs, mirrors, and a chandelier illuminating it all.
The palace gardens are an important part of the royal estate and one of the reasons it has been listed as a World Heritage Site.
From the small manicured Parterre Garden, with its flowerbeds and statues, to the sprawling Prince’s Garden that was once a hunting ground, it’s worth taking a walk through it all.
Aranjuez is less than 40 minutes by train from Madrid. After touring the palace, head to the town’s historic center, where the royal church, heritage hospital, and bullring all show the opulence of a community that grew to serve the Spanish kings and queens.
Purchase your train ticket from Madrid to Aranjuez.
Salamanca
By Iphi from Travel Choreography
So, you’ve got Spain’s capital on your travel radar, and you’re probably wondering about beautiful cities near Madrid worth visiting. Look no further than Salamanca – this charming city in Castile and León has it all.
Salamanca is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and Spanish zest. Whether you’re into exploring centuries-old architecture or diving into the local food scene, the city has a vibe like no other and a little something for everyone.
Salamanca’s roots go way back, even before Roman times! But the city’s true Golden Age occurred during the Christian Reconquista when King Alfonso IX reclaimed Salamanca for the Christian Kingdom of León.
It was during his reign (in 1218, to be exact) that the University of Salamanca was founded, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe.
After visiting the city’s academic soul (and its famous frog sculpture!), head to the Plaza Mayor. It’s a showstopper and the perfect spot for a leisurely coffee.
Later on, climb the Clerecía Towers for a panoramic treat and a bird’s-eye view of Salamanca.
From Madrid, you can hop on a train from Chamartín station. It’s about a 2-hour journey, but the scenery is worth it. It will lead you across plateaus with the majestic Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range as a backdrop.
Avoid the crowds by exploring Salamanca’s top spots early in the morning or later in the afternoon. And don’t miss out on the local tapas and cuisine; it’s the quickest way to fall in love with the region’s flavors.
Purchase your train ticket from Madrid to Salamanca or book an Avila & Salamanca day tour.
Zaragoza
By Noel from Visit Spain and Mediterranean
If you are looking for a historic city to visit as a day trip from Madrid in less than two hours of transportation, then consider Zaragoza, Spain.
Located in the Northeastern part of Spain, it’s about 1.5 -2 hours away, taking the Ave trains from Madrid.
Steeped in history and cultural treasures, there is a lot to explore and discover around the city limits area, experiencing beautiful architecture, amazing cuisine, riverbank walks, and important sites.
Within the historic central district, you can visit the Zaragoza Cathedral or La Seo, an impressive Gothic cathedral known for stunning interiors, and explore the Aljaferia Palace, which is a Moorish palace that reflects the city’s Islamic past.
You can visit the iconic Basilica of our Lady of the Pillar or Basilica de Nuestra del Pilar, walk along the Ebro Riverbank area, or explore the Roman Forum and theater archaeological ruins.
Check out the collections and treasures of the Goya Museum, Pablo Gargallo Museum, and the Caesaraugusta Forum Museum. These are all historic sites worth exploring.
Zaragoza is renowned for its delicious cuisine with authentic Spanish flavors and unique tapas from the region.
You can visit local cafes and restaurants and indulge in traditional favorites like Migas, Ternasco de Aragon, Balcalao a la Argonesa, and Chireta.
Purchase your train ticket from Madrid to Zaragoza.
Calatayud
By Guillem from Feast of Travel
Calatayud is one of the lesser-known day trips from Madrid.
This city’s unique charm lies in its historical significance, a testament to its past rulers, from Celt-Iberians and Romans to the Muslim era with a thriving Jewish community, followed by the Spanish Kingdom’s reconquest.
While not widely known among international travelers, this town is a hidden gem in Spain for those seeking art, architecture, wine culture, and gastronomy.
You can witness its history with your own eyes by visiting the original Roman settlement of Augusta Bilbilis, dating back to the 2nd century BC, the castle of Ayyub, a Muslim fortress from the times of Al-Andalus, and the unique Mudéjar buildings found all over the region.
This incredible architecture arose from the use of Arabic styles and techniques derived from Al-Andalus in Christian buildings after the reconquest. Lastly, the city’s Old Town is a colorful example of Aragonese Renaissance.
To top it all up, the region is home to delicious gastronomy, highlighting Aragonese and Castilian staples, and boasts an incredible wine culture that emphasizes the local Garnacha variety and extreme vineyards.
If all of this didn’t convince you enough, it is extremely easy to get there from Madrid. Just take a direct high-speed train from the capital and you’ll be enjoying Calatayud in under an hour!
Purchase your train ticket from Madrid to Calatayud.
Soria
By Anna from At Lifestyle Crossroads
Soria is one of the most underrated cities in Spain, almost undiscovered by international visitors.
It could be an easy weekend getaway from Madrid, or even a road trip if you want to explore more landmarks of the Soria region.
Many visit Soria for the Museum of Numantia and the famous Numantia Archaeological Site, located in Garray (9 km away from the city center).
Numantia was once a simple Celtiberian settlement, but it made history thanks to the heroic resistance against the Roman Empire: After 13 months of siege, the Numantians decided to burn the city down rather than surrender it to the Romans.
Aside from the unique historical insights, Soria is known for its beautiful architecture. The city has inspired numerous Spanish writers and poets, like Gustavo Adolfo Bequer, Gerardo Diego, and Antonio Machado.
Every Soria sightseeing itinerary should include Arcos de San Juan de Duero, Iglesia de Santo Domingo, Iglesia San Juan de Rabanera, Plaza Mayor, and Palacio de los Condes de Gomara.
Another must-do in Soria is a cozy morning or evening walk along the Duero River towards a local cave church – Ermita de San Saturio.
If you don’t want to drive, book your bus ticket from Madrid to Soria.
Sigüenza
By Paulina from Paulina on the Road
If you’re searching for an authentic Spanish experience and beautiful towns near Madrid worth visiting, Sigüenza should be at the top of your list.
This small medieval town, tucked away in the province of Guadalajara, is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Spain’s history and culture.
Founded by the Celts in the 5th century B.C., Sigüenza’s rich past is reflected in its stunning architecture and landmarks.
A must-see is the imposing Sigüenza Cathedral, a Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century.
Other noteworthy sights include the enchanting Castle of Sigüenza, the Plaza Mayor, and the Parador de Sigüenza.
You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the stone buildings and quaint shops.
To get to Sigüenza, you can catch a train from Madrid’s Chamartin station, which takes about 90 minutes. Once there, you can easily explore the town on foot or rent a bike to cover more ground.
An insider tip: Don’t miss the local specialty, roast lamb, which is the perfect way to end your visit to Sigüenza and one of the top things to eat in Spain.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Sigüenza.
Buitrago Del Lozoya
If you’re in search of offbeat towns to visit near Madrid, head to Buitrago del Lozoya, a small medieval town roughly 80 km north of the capital. It is reachable by bus 191, which starts its route at the subterranean part of Plaza Castilla.
Here, you can admire medieval Spanish landmarks like the town’s castle, the Church of Santa Maria del Castillo, and the defensive walls, which also provide scenic views of Buitrago and its beautiful natural surroundings.
Unexpectedly, the town is also home to a Picasso museum that houses a collection of his original artworks.
If you prefer renting a car, add other quaint villages in the area to your itinerary, such as Horcajuelo de la Sierra, La Hiruela, Valverde de los Arroyos, or Patones de Arriba.
El Pardo
By Ellie from Madrid Insider Tips
El Pardo, nestled by the Manzanares River, offers a delightful town to visit near Madrid, perfect for nature and history enthusiasts.
This hidden gem combines historical significance dating back to the 16th century with natural beauty, making it a haven for nature lovers and food enthusiasts.
Reaching El Pardo is easiest by car, with ample parking options. Alternatively, buses 601 and 602 run from Madrid.
El Pardo is renowned for the Royal Palace, with a history spanning over 500 years and hosting various royal dynasties.
There is a 9 euro adult admission fee, which includes a guided tour in Spanish of the Palace of El Pardo. If you’re a citizen of the EU or Latin America, you can enter for free & without a guide at certain hours on Wednesdays and Sundays (read all the details here).
Note that photography is not allowed inside the palace. After the palace exploration, stroll through the free-to-visit gardens, and don’t miss the Chapel of El Pardo. You can also explore the Casita del Príncipe if it’s open.
A 3 km hiking route along the Manzanares River offers a peaceful nature escape. The surrounding El Pardo Forest, home to deer and boars, is ideal for birdwatching and hiking. In October, you might hear the deer rutting.
Consider visiting the Convento de los Padres Capuchinos and Quinta del Duque del Arco, offering unique experiences near El Pardo village.
If you don’t mind traveling a bit further away from Madrid, you can also get to these cities in less than two hours:
Cordoba
By Delilah from Travel Sim Expert
Andalusia is one of the most gorgeous regions in Spain and a must-visit for anyone traveling to the country.
Fitting in the entire region can be challenging for travelers on a shorter itinerary, but luckily, there’s a town within a short train ride of the capital!
Cordoba is one of the cutest and most unique cities you can find near Madrid. Offering an intriguing mix of Arabic and traditional Andalusian culture, you won’t be disappointed with this day trip.
Reaching Cordoba requires a comfortable 2-hour journey on a fast train from Madrid Atocha train station that drops you off right near the old town.
Once you arrive, you should head straight to the Mosque-Cathedral. This is the most popular sight in the town – and for good reason.
This incredible building was originally built as a mosque and later converted to a cathedral, making for an extremely unique building that is absolutely worth the 13 EUR entry fee.
After the cathedral, you can check out a few of the other sights including the Cordoba Synagogue, Roman Bridge, Alcazar, and Roman Temple.
Just remember to sort out your directions before you go, as the SIM cards in Spain don’t offer great reception in the old town of Cordoba.
Above all else, you should enjoy some local tapas and a refreshing Tinto de verano – wine with soda. Casa Pepe de La Judería won’t disappoint but it’s hard to find a bad place to eat in Cordoba. This is the correct way to experience Andalusia.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Cordoba.
Read more:
Leon
By Kristin from Scotland Less Explored
Leon is just under 2 hours from Madrid on the direct fast train. This small city is located in the north of Spain in an area called the Basque Country.
This part of Spain has a climate that is often more similar to that of Scotland than the south of Spain, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting.
Leon is a well-known stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and it was once the capital of the Kingdom of Leon. It is most famous for its Easter parades, which continue for 10 straight days.
In Leon’s old town, there are several beautiful buildings and squares to visit, such as Plaza Mayor and Leon Cathedral. The narrow streets are pedestrianized, making them perfect for a day of exploring.
Just outside the old town are a couple of other sights not to miss, such as Casa Botines, the Basilica of San Isidoro, and the Convent of San Marcos.
Should you wish to stay overnight, the convent is today a hotel. It is part of the Parador hotel chain, a luxury chain of hotels located in historic buildings.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Leon.
Valencia
By Lara from Valencia Revealed
If you’re looking for a day trip from Madrid that promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean charm, look no further than Valencia.
Nestled on Spain’s eastern coast, Valencia dates back to Roman times. Over the centuries, Valencia has evolved into a thriving trading hub and today stands as a vibrant city, blending its rich historical heritage with a modern, cosmopolitan identity.
Among the most impressive places to visit in Valencia are the iconic Silk Exchange, a UNESCO Heritage Site, and the majestic Valencia Cathedral, home to the Holy Grail.
For something completely unique that you won’t find anywhere else, you have to visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex, a marvel of modern architecture.
And of course, you cannot leave Valencia without trying the paella, the most famous product of local cuisine.
To get there from Madrid, you can take the AVE high-speed train, which gets you to Valencia in approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Book your train ticket from Madrid to Valencia.
Read more:
- Free things to do in Valencia
- Hidden gems in Valencia
- Valencia travel tips
- Las Fallas festival guide
You can get to many other places by public transport from Madrid, including Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Granada, and Caceres, but it’ll take you around 3 hours, and you will only see 2%-5% of what they have to offer, so visit them as a weekend trip rather than a day trip.
OTHER MADRID & SPAIN TRAVEL GUIDES
Looking for more Madrid travel tips? Here’s:
- Madrid packing list
- 2-day Madrid itinerary
- 4-day Madrid itinerary
- Hidden gems in Madrid
- Best areas to stay in Madrid
- Fun facts about Madrid
- Landmarks in Madrid
- Reasons to visit Madrid
- Brunch places in Madrid
- Free museums in Madrid
Read more:
- Long weekends in Spain
- Spain travel tips
- Spain travel quotes
- Travel quotes in Spanish
- Best road trips in Spain
- Novels about Spain
- Spain themed gifts
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