Explore Segovia, "The Sleeping Beauty of Spain," on a day trip from Madrid. Wander through fairy tale castles, ancient Roman cathedrals, and charming cafés. Marvel at the stunning Roman aqueduct with its 167 arches. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride to enjoy breathtaking views of the city's terracotta and sandstone hues.

Here's all you need to know about Segovia, one of the most exciting day trips from Madrid.

Getting there

By car: You can rent a car to reach Segovia from Madrid in just over an hour. The trip duration depends on your exact starting point in Madrid.
By bus: A bus tour is a better option, offering similar travel time without the hassle of driving. It's convenient and affordable.
By Train: Europe's reliable public trains can cut travel time to Segovia by half compared to driving or a bus. However, you'll need to arrange local transport upon arrival unless a tour picks you up.

Our selection of the best tours

Ávila & Segovia Tour with Tickets to Monuments

Full-day tour + guide to Ávila & Segovia
Coach transport, guided walks, and entry fees included
Price: From €69
Duration: 9 hours

Three Cities in One Day: Segovia, Ávila & Toledo

Guided tour to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Entrance fees and lunch included
Price: From €120
Duration:12 hours

Segovia and Toledo Tour, Alcázar, and Cathedral

Guided tour to Toledo and Segovia
Access to the former palace of the Alcázar of Segovia and to Toledo Cathedral
Price: From €56
Duration:12 hours

Prices

Guided Tours

Guided tours of Segovia start at €40, with more expensive options offering multiple stops. Tours with included lunch provide great value, combining sightseeing with a meal.

Combined Tours

Combined tours offer great value, covering multiple places in a day with transportation included. Segovia and Toledo day trips start at €50, while Segovia and Ávila day trips start around €60.

Hot Air Balloon Tours

Hot air balloon tours in Madrid take you far above the city of Segovia. See the surrounding terrain, including Madrid off in the distance. Hot air balloon tours are close to €160 per person.

Best time to visit

Segovia is worth visiting throughout the year. Spring (March-May) and early summer offer pleasant temperatures. Summer is mild but crowded, while fall (late August to early October) is also enjoyable. Choose based on your preferred weather and crowd preferences.

Highlights

There are options when it comes to traveling to Segovia from Madrid. It depends if you are visiting the northern city because of its countryside or history. The best things to do on a Segovia day trip from Madrid include:

Sightseeing

In Segovia, whether you're exploring the downtown area or the surroundings, there's no shortage of captivating sights. This picturesque community offers plenty of photo opportunities to share on social media. Segovia is renowned for its history and three significant landmarks: the Segovia Cathedral, the Roman aqueduct, and the castle.

Aqueduct of Segovia: Don't miss this iconic sight, as the well-preserved elevated bridge symbolizes Segovia.

Segovia Cathedral: Located in Plaza Mayor, this Gothic-style cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary is a must-visit.

Alcázar of Segovia: This medieval castle, rising from a rocky crag at the confluence of two rivers, is a legendary fortress with a unique presentation. Used as a royal palace, state prison, and college over the centuries, it's a fascinating piece of history.

Festivals

Segovia hosts numerous festivals annually. San Lorenzo in August is particularly popular, while June sees celebrations leading up to San Juan and San Pedro. San Frutos and Virgin of the Fuencisla are celebrated in the fall.

Attractions near Segovia

Toledo

Toledo, the heart and soul of Spain, is renowned for its medieval walls, winding streets, and iconic landmarks like the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes and the Catedral de Toledo.

Ávila

Ávila, nestled along the Adaja River, boasts medieval walls enclosing its elevated boundaries. Known as the "Town of Stones and Saints," it features numerous Gothic and Romanesque churches.

Alta Manzanares Basin Regional Park

The Alta Manzanares Basin Regional Park, situated between Segovia and Madrid, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. It features diverse landscapes, from high plains to mountains, providing a habitat for various wildlife species.

Travel Tips

Maximize your day by planning ahead. Consider scheduling a tour of Segovia to streamline your day.
Opt for a bus or high-speed train for transportation to avoid the hassle of renting a car, fueling up, and navigating unfamiliar roads.
Don't forget to bring snacks and water to stay energized throughout the day, especially if lunch isn't provided.
Dress comfortably and wear sun protection, particularly in the summer, to ensure a pleasant experience.

Segovia: Day Trips and Tours from Madrid