Spain is a country full of history, culture and stunning landscapes just waiting to be discovered.
And Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, not only offers a wealth of cultural treasures and historical attractions, but is also an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes and cities in the surrounding area.
With excellent international flight connections from Europe and the Americas – flights from major cities are easy to find – Madrid is the first step on your unforgettable journey.
Discover Spain: Why Madrid is ideally located
Easy access
Madrid is well connected to the rest of the world via Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport (MAD). Numerous airlines offer direct flights from various European cities and the Americas, making your journey comfortable and quick.
There are flights from Miami to Madrid with around eight hours duration, making the Spanish capital an easily accessible destination for travelers from the US.
Cheap transport
Once you arrive in Madrid, there are a number of ways to explore the surrounding regions. Spain’s high-speed rail network, the AVE, offers fast and comfortable travel to cities such as Seville, Valencia or Barcelona, but there are also many other rail connections to surrounding cities.
Within a short travel time, you can reach completely new and fascinating landscapes and cultural scenes.
Centrally located
Madrid is almost at the geographical center of Spain, making it particularly attractive for short trips or longer explorations.
Places like Toledo, a historic city rich in medieval architecture and culture, are less than an hour away by train. The magnificent wine region of La Rioja or the impressive Sierra de Guadarrama are also just a day’s drive away.
Cultural and gastronomic diversity
While you are enjoying your stay in Madrid, do not miss out on discovering the Prado Museum, the local tapas bars and the rich cuisine or the flea markets of Madrid. The city offers a vibrant mix of traditional markets, world-class restaurants and a lively nightlife. This variety of sights, cultural and culinary experiences is the perfect complement to your excursions in the surrounding area.
Experience unforgettable day trips from Madrid
Toledo: City of three cultures
Often referred to as the ‘Imperial City’, Toledo is a must for those interested in history and culture. A day in Toledo is guaranteed to be far too short!
The fascinating ‘City of Three Cultures’ is just 80km from Madrid and can be reached by high speed train in around half an hour.
The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly fascinating because it has retained its old medieval street plan. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you’ll be immersed in an incredibly vibrant ensemble, both inside and out.
Christians, Muslims and Jews have lived here together for centuries, leaving their mark. In this interesting and surprising city, you can discover a Gothic cathedral, a 10th century mosque and two synagogues side by side.
The beauty of this imperial city was captured by El Greco. Don’t forget to visit one of the viewpoints, see the impressive Alcázar, stroll through the old streets and enjoy the sunset from the Alcántara or San Martín bridges.
It’s worth spending more than a day exploring the city to take in its full splendor and experience the play of light at night.
Segovia: An architectural wonder
Just a short train ride from Madrid, Segovia is famous for its impressive Roman aqueduct and fairytale Alcázar castle. The Gothic cathedral towers majestically over the city, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
This Castilian city has always been Madrid’s big sister. Here you will find a well-preserved old town with the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Spain, an impressive Gothic cathedral and a magnificent castle.
But Segovia has more to offer than sightseeing: there are also plenty of culinary delights to discover, with suckling pig and roast lamb among the typical regional dishes. If you’re a gourmet, don’t miss the local dish of cochinillo – a crispy roast suckling pig served in traditional restaurants.
Aranjuez: royal elegance
The tranquil city of Aranjuez, with its magnificent royal palace and extensive gardens, is a delightful place to visit, with its historic quarter and picturesque gardens on the banks of the Tagus. The Aranjuez Gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
On the Tagus, travellers can enjoy a relaxing river cruise and soak up the royal atmosphere.
Here, the urban development of the Enlightenment is reflected in a harmonious interplay between nature and man – whether in the flow of the water, the design of the gardens or the harmony of the forest and the palace architecture. No wonder it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001!
You can also experience the ‘Tren de la Fresa‘ (Strawberry Train) or the ‘Fiestas del Motín de Aranjuez‘ (Aranjuez Moorish Rebellion), two highlights that have been declared of National Tourist Interest. They are just a small sample of the rich cultural offer that awaits you in this charming city in Madrid.
Alcalá de Henares: In the footsteps of Cervantes
The fascinating city of Alcalá de Henares is one of the most exciting and accessible destinations around Madrid. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a real insider’s tip.
As the birthplace of the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares offers an insight into the life of the author of Don Quixote. Visitors can see the Museo Casa Natal de Cervantes and stroll along the historic Calle Mayor with its characteristic arcades.
The impressive castle on the Henares, built in the 8th century, was originally a Moorish fortress. A Christian settlement was established on the opposite side of the river, but it developed independently. The name Alcalá de Henares has Arabic roots, but an even older Roman name has survived.
The wealthy Roman settlement was called Complutum and was located on an important road that connected Zaragoza to the north and Mérida to the south. The word complutense, derived from this name, is still used to refer to the inhabitants of Alcalá. The official name of the University of Madrid is the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, as it was originally founded in Alcalá de Henares.
San Lorenzo del Escorial – For lovers of culture and history
In the middle of the beautiful Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, just 50 kilometres from Madrid, you will find the impressive El Escorial monastery palace, a true symbol of Spain’s Golden Age. Philip II had this magnificent building constructed, creating a unique style that combines the splendour of a palace with the modesty of a monastery.
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the complex impresses with its monumental architecture, the majestic Royal Crypt and an impressive art gallery with works by famous artists.
But San Lorenzo is not only an architectural masterpiece, it is also a charming and lively city. Its historic squares and buildings are well worth exploring, as is the surrounding countryside.
Let us inspire you to discover this World Heritage Site either on your own or as part of an organized tour!
La Granja de San Ildefonso: a royal retreat
This royal summer residence boasts Baroque architecture and magnificent gardens. The spectacular fountains are especially active between April and August and offer an unforgettable spectacle.
This impressive palace of the Spanish royal family was once a summer residence and is now open for you to explore.
You can admire the magnificent interiors with their Baroque decorations, fascinating paintings and elaborate sculptures. After your tour of the palace, be sure to step outside and visit the magnificent gardens. Here you will find extensive gardens with dozens of impressive fountains.
Keep in mind that the fountains are only in operation between April and the end of August, usually on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. So don’t miss the opportunity to visit the palace on these days – you won’t want to miss the breathtaking spectacle of the fountains!
Ávila: A journey to the Middle Ages
The city of Ávila is famous for its impressive medieval walls, dotted with towers and gates. A stroll along these walls offers a fascinating insight into Spain’s past.
With over 80 towers and 9 gates, including the spectacular Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta del Alcázar, there is much to discover. Much of the wall can be explored and at night you will be enchanted by the iconic sight of the walls lit up.
But the medieval walls are only the beginning! You can also visit the first Gothic cathedral in Spain, explore the monastery of Santo Tomás or stroll through the charming Mercado Chico. The Santa Teresa convent is also waiting to be discovered.
Sierra de Guadarrama: for nature lovers, hikers and winter tourists
For nature lovers, the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park offers many opportunities for hiking and skiing.
The Sierra de Guadarrama is a beautiful mountain range that offers spectacular scenery close to the capital.
A great way to explore this area is to visit the numerous viewpoints, both natural and man-made. This ecologically valuable area attracts thousands of day-trippers every year, who come to enjoy its emblematic routes. Here you will find a variety of walks and viewpoints.
One of the best is the easy panoramic walk in the tranquil hinterland around El Escorial, Monte Abantos and La Herrería. This 9km walk takes 2 ½ to 3 hours and climbs about 500 meters in altitude.
Wineries, Bodegas – for gourmets and wine lovers
Discover the wine cellars and bodegas of Madrid! Did you know that great wines are produced in the surroundings of the capital?
Just 45 minutes from Madrid, there are some remarkable wineries waiting to be discovered – easily reached by bus. San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Navalcarnero and Arganda are three exciting wine regions to visit. Here you can experience everything from impressive royal wineries in historic buildings to modern organic farming and enjoyable wine tastings with picnics among the picturesque vines.
Ribera del Duero: a wine lover’s paradise
If there is one wine region in Spain that has really shone in recent decades, it is undoubtedly Ribera del Duero!
Wine lovers should not miss a trip here. Wineries invite you to taste their wines, and medieval villages enchant you with their beauty. In Aranda de Duero, visitors can explore the underground wine cellars and enjoy the famous lechazo asado, a delicious lamb dish.
For an unforgettable experience, visit several wineries and taste a variety of wines. Get a great insight into wine production and harvesting, and take time to explore the many medieval villages and castles in this fascinating region.
Other adventures near Madrid
The winter sports resorts of Valdesqui and Puerto de Navacerrada are easily reached by public transport.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid, Valencia offers the perfect mix of beach fun and cultural experiences. The AVE high-speed train links Madrid to this vibrant coastal city in no time.
These day trips offer a wealth of opportunities for independent travellers who want to discover both the cultural and natural beauty of Spain. Whether you are looking for historical heritage or culinary delights, Spain offers unforgettable experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Madrid is the perfect choice for travellers who want to explore a dynamic metropolis and the rest of Spain. With excellent international flight connections and a superb local infrastructure, it is easier than ever to use Madrid as a springboard for your adventures.
