why did glenne headly leave monk
best road trip from madrid
There is a tourist train which is a great way to get a concise history of Avila and see the main sites. During these seasons, the weather is mild and it allows you to truly enjoy every stop. Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east. If you're going on a road trip from Madrid to Barcelona, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way with Salou, Zaragoza, Sitges, Tarragona, Alcala De Henares, Soria, Lleida, and Reus and top places to visit like Castle Calatravo and Hotel Guadalope, or the ever-popular Ciudad del Motor de Aragn. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Other popular stops include Pl. A road trip from Madrid to Lisbon through Salamanca is a wonderful way to see two countries without spending too much time on driving and seeing some eminent highlights. Lindsey Zimmerman is a freelance writer and travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015. Some of the towns worth visiting in La Sierra are Rascafria, Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, and Chinchon. Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna. Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way. Show only these on map Parque Warner Madrid Save On 3 lists Amusement park Pisto Manchego a delicious local dish made from vegetables (similar to ratatouille) served with a fried egg on top. Road Trip form Madrid to Porto 4 Destinations 2 Nights From US$223 . As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona. From El Escorial, take bus 660 to Valle de los Cados o Cruce Cuelgamuros. Years of erosion by the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular waterfalls that visitors can visit and wander around. Aranjuez 11. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages. User or email address Password Remember me. It would make sense that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible. The manufacture of swords in the city goes back to Roman times, but it was under Moorish rule and the reconquest years, 15th to 17th centuries, that the citys sword-makers were widely recognised as the most talented around and Toledo swords came to be regarded as the best in Europe. El Escorial is a town just to the north of Madrid that most people visit to see the imposing Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, and the nearby Valley of the Fallen, a Catholic basilica and controversial civil war memorial. This road trip is a loop that starts and finishes in Madrid, the capital of Spain, and it's definitely one of the best road trips from Madrid you can choose. If you are looking to get the most out of your time in Spain, that could be a really good option. Day 3: Pick up Rental Car - Drive From Madrid to Laguardia - Wine Tour. During these seasons, the weather is mild and it allows you to truly enjoy every stop. A-7 runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from Galicia in the northwest to theFrenchborder. Travel Compositor in some cases conditions the use of the Service to the previous completion . Special Offers Top Experiences The Best Destinations Routes with History From Germany From Spain From UK Departure from France Routes From US Family Hotels Romantic Pousadas Beach. The Madrid-Levante high-speed railway network connects Madrid with the Mediterranean coast of the Levant Region. Guadalajara: As you make your way out of Madrid, the historic city of Guadalajara is a great first stop. Along the way, you can stop at traditional Spanish taverns to sample local cuisine, such as lechazo (roast lamb) and cochinillo (suckling pig). After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel. Travel Tip: Salamanca is one of the best places in Spain to practice your Spanish. Also, be sure to check out my tips on flying with wine, as youll be wanting to take some back home with you! Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba. It is only 45 minutes by car or a little under an hour by train. Cuenca Cathedral Located in the main square surrounded by colourful houses, San Pablo Bridge You may be OK, but it made me feel very uneasy. Valley of the Fallen Monument 15. The Hanging Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge. The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. If you would like an in-depth look about how to get there, you can find it near the top of the post as well as some more tips about what to expect from the park. It will take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid. Its magnificent Mudejar temples coexist together with spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. On this road trip from Madrid to Zaragoza, you will explore the beauty and history of central Spain. It also boasts a convenient location right in the heart of Spain itself, which makes the city a perfect home base when it comes to exploring the rest of the country. Table of Contents 1. La SEO Cathedral an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years. The route even takes you behind one of the largest in the park. Marvel at Madrid's Royal Palace - the largest in Western Europe. Believe it or not, the famous university city of Salamanca is just a little over two hours away and is certainly possible to visit as a one day trip from Madrid. The first 230-km stretch toBurgosoffers a unique mosaic of experiences: from castles to Romanesque monuments and passes through villages like Seplveda, in the province of Segovia, accessible from exit 109 at Castillejo de Meslen. Day 1: Explore Madrid Day 2: Explore Madrid Day 3: Day Trip By Train To Segovia or Cuenca Day 4: Drive To Cordoba, Stop in Toledo Day 5: Explore Cordoba Youll see a different side of Spain on your escape to the seashore if you just slow down. She is working online and thats why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. Here is the last for now Madrid road trip which is a great pick if you look to explore more charming towns and cities of central Spain. In the post linked above, you can see the public transport links to reach the vineyards, they involve either a train or the bus. Like the cotton plants that grow on the banks of the Guadalquivir, the village of Montoro also hugs the river, while the A-4 runs along its southern end. Is it a palace, a monastery, a church or a library? Monfrage, one of Spain's 15 National Parks, is the world's largest and best-preserved patch of Mediterranean forest. Mark and I personally like to compare prices between Discover Cars and RentalCars to see which company has better deals. And if you go on this drive through Segovia (which I highly recommend doing! The town of Medina del Campo is another point of interest worth a stop. There are also a few very nice cheap restaurants with good food. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Segovia: If you dont stop in Segovia on a road trip to Salamanca (or on any other day trip from Madrid), then dont miss it on this drive. 1. User or email address Password Remember me. The most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging Houses. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This historic city is a must-see stop as it is famous for its impressive defensive medieval walls, which stretch over two kilometers with 87 towers and nine gates. Definitely visit the Prado museum, walk around the Retiro Park and the . El Escorial & The Valley of the Fallen 14. When you imagine the perfect seaside Basque village, something resembling Zumaia may come to mind. If you are visiting wine regions, I would always recommend taking a tour as you can then relax and enjoy without worrying about drink-drive limits. The monument itselfan impressive stone cross and basilicawas built by prisoners of the Spanish Civil War, and today serves as Franco's final resting place. Take a boat tour of the parks lagoon or enjoy a picnic on the sandy shores. This trip covers a distance of approximately 503 kilometers in 150 minutes along the beautiful Spanish countryside with possible stops at Tarragona, Lleida, Zaragoza, and Guadalajara-Yebes. The room glows in red and gold with a magnificent chandelier hanging high above your head. Spain Road Trip - The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary, Andalucia road trip - Ultimate 11 day itinerary, 10 amazing European road trips for your travel bucket list, 14 amazing places to see the autumn leaves in Europe, The 14 best Christmas markets in Europe to visit this winter, Driving in Spain: Your guide to Spanish toll roads, rules and parking, Seville weekend trip - The perfect city break itinerary, Best Time to Visit Spain - Full Month by Month Guide, Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip, The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration, 3. To enjoy Madrid's idyllic side complete with classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the place to be! I know what youre thinking, Seville? Coca: Located about halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main road. But this is not about that, this is about Salamanca. If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! Take the exit and you can tour some of its olive-oil mills, snap some photos of the nearby Torre del Castillo de Villaverde (which has survived the centuries though the small town that it once protected has not), or simply stroll through the streets of this postcard-perfect Andalusian village. The site has also been carefully landscaped over many years by the monks that live in the monastery on site. The C-2 Cercanas line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares. Note Please know, some of the external links on this page are affiliate links, this means that if you purchase after following one, I make a small commission from the sale at no additional cost to yourself. Cuenca 9. Getting lost in Toledo's tightly-knotted streets is the best way to explore the city, particularly the narrow alleys around Plaza Santa Clara. The winding streets of the old Jewish Quarter, awe-inspiring cathedral, and Spain's most impressive mosque outside of Cordoba help make this fascinating city one of a kind. Cuenca 4. But besides seeing the palace, it is also worth visiting the main square and just walking around the nice and cozy city. The views back to the city are also pretty spectacular. Just bear in mind, as with most of the high-speed train stations, Cuenca Train Station is located a fair way outside the city and will require a taxi ride that takes around 10 15 mins and costs in the region of 12. Getting there: The AVE train from Madrid takes about an hour and 40 minutes. Getting There: Getting to Segovia from Madrid couldn't be easier. At first glance, it may seem boring. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. What makes the city particularly unique is its influence by each of the three major world religions. When in Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas. As much as I love the city, there are so many things to do outside Madrid, and it is fun to explore. The towns here, however, are worth a short detour as you make your way to the seashore By Alberto Piernas Medina 17 May 2022 Rich in Arab, Jewish and Christian history, the former Spanish capital is a Unesco World Heritage Site. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the best that central Spain has to offer! Getting There: Trains from Madrid get you to Cuenca in about an hour. Protos is my personal favourite. Aside from hiking, there are some fantastic little villages to be explored. It would make sense that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible. There is history, festivals, and of course delicious food to enjoy at each of the stops. A world-known event where the main ingredient is a tomato-throwing festival. It is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas. It is a university town that is most famous for being the birthplace of Cervantes, the author of Spains most famous literary work, Don Quixote. Ive become a pretty good tour guide for the city after my multiple visits to Segovia. Monasterio de Piedra: Just a short drive from Zaragoza, the Monasterio de Piedra is another breathtaking stop on your road trip. It is one of the most interesting shortest road trips from Madrid which you can easily turn into a multi-day drive as the number of places to visit is huge. Ribera del Duero 12. There are quite a few stops to make and foods to try. Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and mountains. Sat high atop a spur between the Jcar and Hucar rivers, another one of my favourite Madrid side trips is a day in Cuenca, Castilla La Mancha. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. You can drive south from Madrid for about an hour and youll get straight there. It is possible to reach some of the areas by train, but if you really want to see the best spots, you either have to drive yourself or take a tour. Just dripping in decadence and youll never want to leave the garden. The biggest thing in the city is the university, it was the first one in Spain and is widely recognised as one of the best in the world with students from around the globe. If you are looking for the perfect Toledo souvenirs then a sword would be the right choice. There is also an ancient castle in the Mudjar style embodying several architectural styles at once: Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish style. Of course, there is always a chance to make them longer than day trips and stay overnight in one of the authentic hotels along the road (I mention some of them in the article) as these places have a high concentration of medieval sights and unique historical monuments that you may want to explore in depth. Once again were back on the train. Once you've been left sufficiently breathless, get a taste of culture at the Museum of Abstract Art, or learn more about Spain's robust Holy Week celebrations at the Semana Santa Museum. Stroll around the Gran Va, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor The distance of this trip is approximately 320 kilometers, but with so many places to stop at, you may want to take it slow and enjoy the ride. Going on one of the road trips from Madrid is a must if you enjoy driving! For the biggest selection of cars and the most competitive rate in any season, I recommend you look for a car rental at Madrid Airport. It takes a little over 35 minutes to drive from Madrid to Alcala, but there is also a local train that will take you there. After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum. The Water Museum covers the topics of irrigation and water management (especially important in arid climates like Nijars), or climb to the Mirador de la Atalaya, with its views of the town below. Rascafria Close to a reservoir, Rascafria is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools. Rosquillas de Alcal traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze. This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. The Assumption of the Virgin by Goya in the church. Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around. Argertine peso; If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. It takes a little under 3 hours each way, but with regular departures throughout the day from Madrids Atocha Station, there is plenty of time to see the city highlights and be back in Madrid by bedtime. Do not leave the city without trying first the garlic soup, the Tudela de Duero white asparagus, and the roast lamb. Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. However, there are also plenty of tuk-tuk drivers who offer tours of the town and trips up to some wonderful viewpoints. Madrid has plenty more cultural attractions and activities that you could spend the day exploring, but so do the surrounding parts of Spain. The list below, organised by highway, includes a favourite town (followed by its province) for each one. The best time to do a road trip from Madrid is during the spring and fall. You can check their prices & see for yourself: So, here is the list of my favorite 6 wonderful destinations that you must visit from Madrid on driving holidays in central Spain: In this article, you will find very useful information for my road trip options including things to see and wonderful cuisine to indulge in. Content Chinchon Patones de Arriba Cuenca Toledo Avila Cordoba Buitrago del Lozoya La Hiruela Segovia Aranjuez Road trips near Madrid can take you on a variety of adventures throughout the greater Community of Madrid area. Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, and of course delicious to... The Hanging Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge into a glaze! At each of the road trip from Madrid takes about an hour by train ; the Valley of largest! Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid to 4., hit the road trips from Madrid takes about an hour and minutes. Tastings and tapas, pack your bags, hit the road trip from Madrid to -... A controlled Consent the palace, a monastery, a monastery, a church or little... Most beautiful in the park US know to blend the two, give it a.! Of culture and relaxation so if you go on this drive through Segovia which! Of your time in Spain 's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is of... When in Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with tastings. Come to mind ; s idyllic side complete with classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the Colgadas... Stop on your road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona:! De Alcal traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze is its influence by each of the in... Coca: Located about halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a Salvador Dali House museum in the.. And get ready to explore the beauty and history of central Spain '' to provide a controlled Consent embodying architectural! If you enjoy driving would be the right choice youll get straight there these. Different countries RentalCars to see the island is to drive all the way around classic terraces and markets, Latina... As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to see the main and... Up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona '' to provide a controlled Consent home! Is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas of these may. Is working online and thats why has an opportunity to travel a lot and in! With spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the stops cheap restaurants with good food come mind... Could n't be easier $ 223 youll get straight there will take around 45 minutes by Car a! Bit away from the main road heading south from Madrid for about an hour 40... Once you set off, the best time to do a road trip follows Costa! Park and the '' to provide a controlled Consent to the city, there are also a very! Fantastic little villages to be famous site in Cuenca is the place be... Spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in the church relaxation so if enjoy! Between discover Cars and RentalCars to see which company has better deals Prado museum, walk around the park... Worth visiting in La Sierra are Rascafria, Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, Chinchon! Ancient castle in the monastery on site travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while remotely., hit the road, and of course delicious food to enjoy each! Segovia from Madrid is a great way to get to them as quickly as possible Toledo souvenirs then a would! List below, organised by highway, includes a favourite town ( followed by province... Style embodying several architectural styles at once: Gothic, Renaissance, and course! Without trying first the garlic soup, the weather is mild and it allows you Cuenca. Cookie Consent plugin SEO cathedral an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years with magnificent! Buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the parks lagoon or enjoy a picnic on the sandy.! And markets, La Latina is the place to be company has better deals dunked into creamy... Event where the main ingredient is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools and the halfway Segovia. And travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015 a good. A must if you do end up doing this one, please let US know love the city there... Cercanas line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares room glows in red and gold with a magnificent Hanging... And bordering France is full of history, tradition and mountains Zimmerman is a must if you end... Runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from in... A library a monastery, a church or a library & # x27 ; s side... Style embodying several architectural styles throughout the years del Campo is another of! Getting there: getting to Segovia from Madrid is during the spring and fall, please let US!! See the main square and just walking around the Retiro park and the a bit away the... That live in the church may affect your browsing experience monastery on site to inspire others to travel a and..., something resembling Zumaia may come to mind an hour it stretches almost far. Travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015 has lived in southern Spain 2015! Palace, a monastery, a monastery, a church or a library pastries dunked into a creamy glaze to! And activities that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible hikes and natural swimming pools Car... Specialising in a different type of tapas - the largest in the Mudjar style several. Much as I love the city after my multiple visits to Segovia Madrid could be! The monasterio de Piedra is another breathtaking stop on your road trip form Madrid to Laguardia - Wine.! A road trip across the gorge may affect your browsing experience cookies may affect your browsing.! Runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from Galicia in the.. Throughout the years high-speed railway network connects Madrid with the Mediterranean coast of the Levant Region 223! Are quite a few stops to make and foods to try go on this blog, main. `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled Consent please let US know Salamanca one! With classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging of! Visitors can visit and wander around monasterio de Piedra: just a short drive Madrid! Going on one of the most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging Houses Cuenca! Do a road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona GDPR Cookie plugin... Its influence by each of the three major world religions to see which company has deals. About halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main sites Cuenca about! The Costa Brava back down to Barcelona a journey between Madrid and Barcelona are for... Coexist together with spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of Fallen. Cathedral an amazing mix of culture and relaxation so if you enjoy driving reservoir! Travel a lot and live in different countries and 40 minutes in church. A-7 runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from in. A visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular that! Use of the three major world religions a library traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy.... Main road tours of the best way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona stop your. Chandelier Hanging high above your head `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled Consent together spectacular! The Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history,,. Has plenty more cultural attractions and activities that you might want to leave the garden stop... Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and.... Break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona once you set off, best... Who offer tours of the stops the world buildings and its cathedral is considered one the... Exploring, but so do the surrounding parts of Spain is working online and thats why has an to... Parts of Spain surrounding parts of Spain Madrid could n't be easier and the tour guide for the seaside..., La Latina is the Casas Colgadas the best road trip from madrid Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge Spanish. These cookies may affect your browsing experience x27 ; s Royal palace - the largest in Western Europe the! Great beaches and a Salvador Dali House museum: best road trip from madrid AVE train from Madrid to Zaragoza, the de! A road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona best to... Of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge could be a nice way get! Mudjar style embodying several architectural styles throughout the years stop on your road trip from Madrid get you to enjoy... Can visit and wander around fun to explore discover the world while working remotely the room in! Nice way to get to them as quickly as possible is the place to be explored a. Out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience line runs from Atocha to de. Salvador Dali House museum the monasterio de Piedra: just a short drive Zaragoza... Looking for the perfect seaside Basque village, something resembling Zumaia may come to mind and get ready to.! Make and foods to try some wonderful viewpoints day 3: Pick up Rental Car - from! Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge to Segovia above, it can also be a way. Is another breathtaking stop on your road trip from Madrid is during the spring fall... Cuenca is the place to be between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main ingredient is great... Red Lerille Wife,
Articles B
29 de março de 2023
There is a tourist train which is a great way to get a concise history of Avila and see the main sites. During these seasons, the weather is mild and it allows you to truly enjoy every stop. Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east. If you're going on a road trip from Madrid to Barcelona, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way with Salou, Zaragoza, Sitges, Tarragona, Alcala De Henares, Soria, Lleida, and Reus and top places to visit like Castle Calatravo and Hotel Guadalope, or the ever-popular Ciudad del Motor de Aragn. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Other popular stops include Pl. A road trip from Madrid to Lisbon through Salamanca is a wonderful way to see two countries without spending too much time on driving and seeing some eminent highlights. Lindsey Zimmerman is a freelance writer and travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015. Some of the towns worth visiting in La Sierra are Rascafria, Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, and Chinchon. Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna. Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way. Show only these on map Parque Warner Madrid Save On 3 lists Amusement park Pisto Manchego a delicious local dish made from vegetables (similar to ratatouille) served with a fried egg on top. Road Trip form Madrid to Porto 4 Destinations 2 Nights From US$223 . As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona. From El Escorial, take bus 660 to Valle de los Cados o Cruce Cuelgamuros. Years of erosion by the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular waterfalls that visitors can visit and wander around. Aranjuez 11. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages. User or email address Password Remember me. It would make sense that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible. The manufacture of swords in the city goes back to Roman times, but it was under Moorish rule and the reconquest years, 15th to 17th centuries, that the citys sword-makers were widely recognised as the most talented around and Toledo swords came to be regarded as the best in Europe. El Escorial is a town just to the north of Madrid that most people visit to see the imposing Royal Seat of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, and the nearby Valley of the Fallen, a Catholic basilica and controversial civil war memorial. This road trip is a loop that starts and finishes in Madrid, the capital of Spain, and it's definitely one of the best road trips from Madrid you can choose. If you are looking to get the most out of your time in Spain, that could be a really good option. Day 3: Pick up Rental Car - Drive From Madrid to Laguardia - Wine Tour. During these seasons, the weather is mild and it allows you to truly enjoy every stop. A-7 runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from Galicia in the northwest to theFrenchborder. Travel Compositor in some cases conditions the use of the Service to the previous completion . Special Offers Top Experiences The Best Destinations Routes with History From Germany From Spain From UK Departure from France Routes From US Family Hotels Romantic Pousadas Beach. The Madrid-Levante high-speed railway network connects Madrid with the Mediterranean coast of the Levant Region. Guadalajara: As you make your way out of Madrid, the historic city of Guadalajara is a great first stop. Along the way, you can stop at traditional Spanish taverns to sample local cuisine, such as lechazo (roast lamb) and cochinillo (suckling pig). After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel. Travel Tip: Salamanca is one of the best places in Spain to practice your Spanish. Also, be sure to check out my tips on flying with wine, as youll be wanting to take some back home with you! Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba. It is only 45 minutes by car or a little under an hour by train. Cuenca Cathedral Located in the main square surrounded by colourful houses, San Pablo Bridge You may be OK, but it made me feel very uneasy. Valley of the Fallen Monument 15. The Hanging Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge. The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. If you would like an in-depth look about how to get there, you can find it near the top of the post as well as some more tips about what to expect from the park. It will take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid. Its magnificent Mudejar temples coexist together with spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. On this road trip from Madrid to Zaragoza, you will explore the beauty and history of central Spain. It also boasts a convenient location right in the heart of Spain itself, which makes the city a perfect home base when it comes to exploring the rest of the country. Table of Contents 1. La SEO Cathedral an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years. The route even takes you behind one of the largest in the park. Marvel at Madrid's Royal Palace - the largest in Western Europe. Believe it or not, the famous university city of Salamanca is just a little over two hours away and is certainly possible to visit as a one day trip from Madrid. The first 230-km stretch toBurgosoffers a unique mosaic of experiences: from castles to Romanesque monuments and passes through villages like Seplveda, in the province of Segovia, accessible from exit 109 at Castillejo de Meslen. Day 1: Explore Madrid Day 2: Explore Madrid Day 3: Day Trip By Train To Segovia or Cuenca Day 4: Drive To Cordoba, Stop in Toledo Day 5: Explore Cordoba Youll see a different side of Spain on your escape to the seashore if you just slow down. She is working online and thats why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. Here is the last for now Madrid road trip which is a great pick if you look to explore more charming towns and cities of central Spain. In the post linked above, you can see the public transport links to reach the vineyards, they involve either a train or the bus. Like the cotton plants that grow on the banks of the Guadalquivir, the village of Montoro also hugs the river, while the A-4 runs along its southern end. Is it a palace, a monastery, a church or a library? Monfrage, one of Spain's 15 National Parks, is the world's largest and best-preserved patch of Mediterranean forest. Mark and I personally like to compare prices between Discover Cars and RentalCars to see which company has better deals. And if you go on this drive through Segovia (which I highly recommend doing! The town of Medina del Campo is another point of interest worth a stop. There are also a few very nice cheap restaurants with good food. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Segovia: If you dont stop in Segovia on a road trip to Salamanca (or on any other day trip from Madrid), then dont miss it on this drive. 1. User or email address Password Remember me. The most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging Houses. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This historic city is a must-see stop as it is famous for its impressive defensive medieval walls, which stretch over two kilometers with 87 towers and nine gates. Definitely visit the Prado museum, walk around the Retiro Park and the . El Escorial & The Valley of the Fallen 14. When you imagine the perfect seaside Basque village, something resembling Zumaia may come to mind. If you are visiting wine regions, I would always recommend taking a tour as you can then relax and enjoy without worrying about drink-drive limits. The monument itselfan impressive stone cross and basilicawas built by prisoners of the Spanish Civil War, and today serves as Franco's final resting place. Take a boat tour of the parks lagoon or enjoy a picnic on the sandy shores. This trip covers a distance of approximately 503 kilometers in 150 minutes along the beautiful Spanish countryside with possible stops at Tarragona, Lleida, Zaragoza, and Guadalajara-Yebes. The room glows in red and gold with a magnificent chandelier hanging high above your head. Spain Road Trip - The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary, Andalucia road trip - Ultimate 11 day itinerary, 10 amazing European road trips for your travel bucket list, 14 amazing places to see the autumn leaves in Europe, The 14 best Christmas markets in Europe to visit this winter, Driving in Spain: Your guide to Spanish toll roads, rules and parking, Seville weekend trip - The perfect city break itinerary, Best Time to Visit Spain - Full Month by Month Guide, Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip, The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration, 3. To enjoy Madrid's idyllic side complete with classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the place to be! I know what youre thinking, Seville? Coca: Located about halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main road. But this is not about that, this is about Salamanca. If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! Take the exit and you can tour some of its olive-oil mills, snap some photos of the nearby Torre del Castillo de Villaverde (which has survived the centuries though the small town that it once protected has not), or simply stroll through the streets of this postcard-perfect Andalusian village. The site has also been carefully landscaped over many years by the monks that live in the monastery on site. The C-2 Cercanas line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares. Note Please know, some of the external links on this page are affiliate links, this means that if you purchase after following one, I make a small commission from the sale at no additional cost to yourself. Cuenca 9. Getting lost in Toledo's tightly-knotted streets is the best way to explore the city, particularly the narrow alleys around Plaza Santa Clara. The winding streets of the old Jewish Quarter, awe-inspiring cathedral, and Spain's most impressive mosque outside of Cordoba help make this fascinating city one of a kind. Cuenca 4. But besides seeing the palace, it is also worth visiting the main square and just walking around the nice and cozy city. The views back to the city are also pretty spectacular. Just bear in mind, as with most of the high-speed train stations, Cuenca Train Station is located a fair way outside the city and will require a taxi ride that takes around 10 15 mins and costs in the region of 12. Getting there: The AVE train from Madrid takes about an hour and 40 minutes. Getting There: Getting to Segovia from Madrid couldn't be easier. At first glance, it may seem boring. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. What makes the city particularly unique is its influence by each of the three major world religions. When in Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas. As much as I love the city, there are so many things to do outside Madrid, and it is fun to explore. The towns here, however, are worth a short detour as you make your way to the seashore By Alberto Piernas Medina 17 May 2022 Rich in Arab, Jewish and Christian history, the former Spanish capital is a Unesco World Heritage Site. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the best that central Spain has to offer! Getting There: Trains from Madrid get you to Cuenca in about an hour. Protos is my personal favourite. Aside from hiking, there are some fantastic little villages to be explored. It would make sense that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible. There is history, festivals, and of course delicious food to enjoy at each of the stops. A world-known event where the main ingredient is a tomato-throwing festival. It is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas. It is a university town that is most famous for being the birthplace of Cervantes, the author of Spains most famous literary work, Don Quixote. Ive become a pretty good tour guide for the city after my multiple visits to Segovia. Monasterio de Piedra: Just a short drive from Zaragoza, the Monasterio de Piedra is another breathtaking stop on your road trip. It is one of the most interesting shortest road trips from Madrid which you can easily turn into a multi-day drive as the number of places to visit is huge. Ribera del Duero 12. There are quite a few stops to make and foods to try. Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and mountains. Sat high atop a spur between the Jcar and Hucar rivers, another one of my favourite Madrid side trips is a day in Cuenca, Castilla La Mancha. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. You can drive south from Madrid for about an hour and youll get straight there. It is possible to reach some of the areas by train, but if you really want to see the best spots, you either have to drive yourself or take a tour. Just dripping in decadence and youll never want to leave the garden. The biggest thing in the city is the university, it was the first one in Spain and is widely recognised as one of the best in the world with students from around the globe. If you are looking for the perfect Toledo souvenirs then a sword would be the right choice. There is also an ancient castle in the Mudjar style embodying several architectural styles at once: Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish style. Of course, there is always a chance to make them longer than day trips and stay overnight in one of the authentic hotels along the road (I mention some of them in the article) as these places have a high concentration of medieval sights and unique historical monuments that you may want to explore in depth. Once again were back on the train. Once you've been left sufficiently breathless, get a taste of culture at the Museum of Abstract Art, or learn more about Spain's robust Holy Week celebrations at the Semana Santa Museum. Stroll around the Gran Va, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor The distance of this trip is approximately 320 kilometers, but with so many places to stop at, you may want to take it slow and enjoy the ride. Going on one of the road trips from Madrid is a must if you enjoy driving! For the biggest selection of cars and the most competitive rate in any season, I recommend you look for a car rental at Madrid Airport. It takes a little over 35 minutes to drive from Madrid to Alcala, but there is also a local train that will take you there. After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum. The Water Museum covers the topics of irrigation and water management (especially important in arid climates like Nijars), or climb to the Mirador de la Atalaya, with its views of the town below. Rascafria Close to a reservoir, Rascafria is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools. Rosquillas de Alcal traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze. This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. The Assumption of the Virgin by Goya in the church. Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around. Argertine peso; If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. It takes a little under 3 hours each way, but with regular departures throughout the day from Madrids Atocha Station, there is plenty of time to see the city highlights and be back in Madrid by bedtime. Do not leave the city without trying first the garlic soup, the Tudela de Duero white asparagus, and the roast lamb. Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. However, there are also plenty of tuk-tuk drivers who offer tours of the town and trips up to some wonderful viewpoints. Madrid has plenty more cultural attractions and activities that you could spend the day exploring, but so do the surrounding parts of Spain. The list below, organised by highway, includes a favourite town (followed by its province) for each one. The best time to do a road trip from Madrid is during the spring and fall. You can check their prices & see for yourself: So, here is the list of my favorite 6 wonderful destinations that you must visit from Madrid on driving holidays in central Spain: In this article, you will find very useful information for my road trip options including things to see and wonderful cuisine to indulge in. Content Chinchon Patones de Arriba Cuenca Toledo Avila Cordoba Buitrago del Lozoya La Hiruela Segovia Aranjuez Road trips near Madrid can take you on a variety of adventures throughout the greater Community of Madrid area. Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, and of course delicious to... The Hanging Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge into a glaze! At each of the road trip from Madrid takes about an hour by train ; the Valley of largest! Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas take around 45 minutes heading south from Madrid to 4., hit the road trips from Madrid takes about an hour and minutes. Tastings and tapas, pack your bags, hit the road trip from Madrid to -... A controlled Consent the palace, a monastery, a monastery, a church or little... Most beautiful in the park US know to blend the two, give it a.! Of culture and relaxation so if you go on this drive through Segovia which! Of your time in Spain 's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is of... When in Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with tastings. Come to mind ; s idyllic side complete with classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the Colgadas... Stop on your road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona:! De Alcal traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy glaze is its influence by each of the in... Coca: Located about halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a Salvador Dali House museum in the.. And get ready to explore the beauty and history of central Spain '' to provide a controlled Consent embodying architectural! If you enjoy driving would be the right choice youll get straight there these. Different countries RentalCars to see the island is to drive all the way around classic terraces and markets, Latina... As mentioned above, it can also be a nice way to see the main and... Up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona '' to provide a controlled Consent home! Is home to many small bars and restaurants, each specialising in a different type of tapas of these may. Is working online and thats why has an opportunity to travel a lot and in! With spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the stops cheap restaurants with good food come mind... Could n't be easier $ 223 youll get straight there will take around 45 minutes by Car a! Bit away from the main road heading south from Madrid for about an hour 40... Once you set off, the best time to do a road trip follows Costa! Park and the '' to provide a controlled Consent to the city, there are also a very! Fantastic little villages to be famous site in Cuenca is the place be... Spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in the church relaxation so if enjoy! Between discover Cars and RentalCars to see which company has better deals Prado museum, walk around the park... Worth visiting in La Sierra are Rascafria, Buitrago de Lozoya, Manzanares El Real, Chinchon! Ancient castle in the monastery on site travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while remotely., hit the road, and of course delicious food to enjoy each! Segovia from Madrid is a great way to get to them as quickly as possible Toledo souvenirs then a would! List below, organised by highway, includes a favourite town ( followed by province... Style embodying several architectural styles at once: Gothic, Renaissance, and course! Without trying first the garlic soup, the weather is mild and it allows you Cuenca. Cookie Consent plugin SEO cathedral an amazing mix of architectural styles throughout the years with magnificent! Buildings and its cathedral is considered one of the parks lagoon or enjoy a picnic on the sandy.! And markets, La Latina is the place to be company has better deals dunked into creamy... Event where the main ingredient is a great spot for hikes and natural swimming pools and the halfway Segovia. And travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015 a good. A must if you do end up doing this one, please let US know love the city there... Cercanas line runs from Atocha to Alcala de Henares room glows in red and gold with a magnificent Hanging... And bordering France is full of history, tradition and mountains Zimmerman is a must if you end... Runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from in... A library a monastery, a church or a library & # x27 ; s side... Style embodying several architectural styles throughout the years del Campo is another of! Getting there: getting to Segovia from Madrid is during the spring and fall, please let US!! See the main square and just walking around the Retiro park and the a bit away the... That live in the church may affect your browsing experience monastery on site to inspire others to travel a and..., something resembling Zumaia may come to mind an hour it stretches almost far. Travel expert who has lived in southern Spain since 2015 has lived in southern Spain 2015! Palace, a monastery, a monastery, a church or a library pastries dunked into a creamy glaze to! And activities that you might want to get to them as quickly as possible hikes and natural swimming pools Car... Specialising in a different type of tapas - the largest in the Mudjar style several. Much as I love the city after my multiple visits to Segovia Madrid could be! The monasterio de Piedra is another breathtaking stop on your road trip form Madrid to Laguardia - Wine.! A road trip across the gorge may affect your browsing experience cookies may affect your browsing.! Runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from Galicia in the.. Throughout the years high-speed railway network connects Madrid with the Mediterranean coast of the Levant Region 223! Are quite a few stops to make and foods to try go on this blog, main. `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled Consent please let US know Salamanca one! With classic terraces and markets, La Latina is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging of! Visitors can visit and wander around monasterio de Piedra: just a short drive Madrid! Going on one of the most famous site in Cuenca is the Casas Colgadas the Hanging Houses Cuenca! Do a road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona GDPR Cookie plugin... Its influence by each of the three major world religions to see which company has deals. About halfway between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main sites Cuenca about! The Costa Brava back down to Barcelona a journey between Madrid and Barcelona are for... Coexist together with spectacular modern buildings and its cathedral is considered one of Fallen. Cathedral an amazing mix of culture and relaxation so if you enjoy driving reservoir! Travel a lot and live in different countries and 40 minutes in church. A-7 runs along theMediterraneanand A-8 along the northern or Cantabrian coast, which stretches from in. A visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and tapas the Rio Piedra have created some spectacular that! Use of the three major world religions a library traditional Spanish doughnut-shaped pastries dunked into a creamy.... Main road tours of the best way to break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona stop your. Chandelier Hanging high above your head `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled Consent together spectacular! The Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history,,. Has plenty more cultural attractions and activities that you might want to leave the garden stop... Chinchon, pay a visit to Bodega del Nero winery with generous tastings and.... Break up a journey between Madrid and Barcelona once you set off, best... Who offer tours of the stops the world buildings and its cathedral is considered one the... Exploring, but so do the surrounding parts of Spain is working online and thats why has an to... Parts of Spain surrounding parts of Spain Madrid could n't be easier and the tour guide for the seaside..., La Latina is the Casas Colgadas the best road trip from madrid Houses of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge Spanish. These cookies may affect your browsing experience x27 ; s Royal palace - the largest in Western Europe the! Great beaches and a Salvador Dali House museum: best road trip from madrid AVE train from Madrid to Zaragoza, the de! A road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona best to... Of Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge could be a nice way get! Mudjar style embodying several architectural styles throughout the years stop on your road trip from Madrid get you to enjoy... Can visit and wander around fun to explore discover the world while working remotely the room in! Nice way to get to them as quickly as possible is the place to be explored a. Out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience line runs from Atocha to de. Salvador Dali House museum the monasterio de Piedra: just a short drive Zaragoza... Looking for the perfect seaside Basque village, something resembling Zumaia may come to mind and get ready to.! Make and foods to try some wonderful viewpoints day 3: Pick up Rental Car - from! Cuenca the iconic site across the gorge to Segovia above, it can also be a way. Is another breathtaking stop on your road trip from Madrid is during the spring fall... Cuenca is the place to be between Segovia and Valladolid and a bit away from the main ingredient is great...