Trying to decide if you want to visit Toledo makes no sense. If you are visiting Central Spain, you want, need or are compelled to visit Toledo. You do not need to question yourself or make a decision.
In a similar way, you do not think about it twice when you encounter the opportunity to revisit Toledo. I stopped by the city more than 10 years ago as part of a month long trip across the European continent. I remember how I walked the narrow streets, stood under the light of El Transparente and marveled in front of El Greco’s masterpiece.
Toledo was my first taste of Europe’s grandiose architecture and rich history. It was a dream come true to return to the place that stole my heart so many years ago.
Table of Contents
A Bit of History
Toledo is known as the “Imperial City” for having been the main venue of the court of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, and as the “City of the Three Cultures”, having been influenced by a historical co-existence of Christians, Muslims and Jews.
Toledo was part of the Roman Empire during antiquity. Once the Empire entered a period of decadency, the city was controlled by Visigoths and later conquered by North African Arabs (this is the period were the three religions co-existed).
The city was taken by the Castilian king during the Reconquest. Toledo continued being a cultural center during that period. Arabic or Jewish texts were translated to Castilian and vice versa.
How to Make the Most of the Day
It feels remorseful to write about how to spend one day in the city. There are more than 30 museums and monuments in Toledo. Plus, there are special exhibitions, interest specific tours, ecological routes and much more. In shorts, there is a humongous numbers of attractions and things to do in the city.
Yes, it is difficult to narrow a visit to one day but, being realistic, most travelers would visit as a day trip from Madrid. Here are some considerations to make the most of the day:
- The train from Madrid to Toledo takes about 40 minutes. You do not need to make any reservations beforehand. Many trains depart daily from the Atocha station. Just show up and but your ticket
- Train schedules may change on holidays. Make sure you investigate if you are traveling to Toledo during a festivity or official day off
- Alternatively, you can take the Madrid to Toledo bus. This option is a bit cheaper and takes between 50 and 70 minutes. You can take the bus from the Barajas Airport or from other bus stations located in the city
- You will need transportation from Toledo’s train station to the city center. Once at the station, you can take a taxi, public bus or touristic bus
- Try to arrive to the city as early as possible
- Toledo is touristy. There is no doubt about that. Do not worry. Visitors tend to congregate around Plaza Zocodover and the Cathedral. You will be fine once you move from those areas.
- Since the city is so popular with visitors, almost every church, monastery, synagogue and museum charge an entrance fee. Prices range from 2 to 10 Euros. It may be more cost effective to get a touristic card or pass (depending on how many places you want to visit
- Many tourist companies and vendors are located on the train station. Resist the temptation and compare prices (and ask for advice) at the tourism office located in the city center.
- For folks on a budget, it is possible to enjoy the city without entering every single monument or spending a lot of money. This is one gorgeous place! Therefore, there are a good number of free things to do in Toledo. Most of my day was spent without spending much.
- A company called Cuentamelo Todo offers free tours of the city (see, that is right away one of the free things Toledo offers)
Spain Day Tour to Toledo – Places to Visit
Mirador del Valle (Valley Viewpoint)
I recommend starting your visit by taking an open bus (or taxi) around the city (outside the walls, on the other side of the river). This is the only way to admire the famous panoramic views.
When negotiating your ride to the city center, ask if you can be driven around the city first. Make sure you will have a stop at the Mirador del Valle. To me, this is a must!
El Alcazar
The city’s most notorious building is located on the highest part. Once used as a Roman palace in the 3rd century, it was restored under the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. This is where Hernán Cortés was received by the Emperor after the conquest of the Aztecs.
Today, it houses the Army Museum and the Castilla-La Mancha Regional Library.
Zocodover Plaza
This small plaza houses the Visitor’s Information Center. It is a nice meeting point but crowded and overpriced. Avoid eating around and staying too long.
Catedral Primada (Primate or Gothic Cathedral)
The cathedral of Toledo dates from the 13th century and it is considered by many experts, to be the magnum opus (the most important) work of the Gothic style in Spain. It was begun in 1226 and the last Gothic contributions were made in 1493 (one year after the discovery of America). It also combines some characteristics of the Mudéjar style.
One of the most outstanding features of the Cathedral is the altarpiece called El Transparente. Its name refers to the unique illumination provided by a large skylight cut very high up into the thick wall across the ambulatory behind the high altar, and another hole cut into the back of the altarpiece itself to allow shafts of sunlight to strike the tabernacle.
Ayuntamiento and Plaza (City Hall)
The City Hall and the Archbishop Palace are located across the Cathedral. There is a nice plaza among the buildings from where you can relax and people watch.
La Juderia (Jewish Quarter)
During Moorish rule, most of the Jewish contingent of Toledo lived in this area. They were allowed to work, raise families and practice their religion. Much of this area has been preserved over the years and is now on display for tourists.
This is where the city’s more interesting architecture can be found. Inquire about guided tours in the Visitor’s Office.
Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes (San Juan Monastery)
This Franciscan Monastery has Gothic and Mudejar architectural influences.
Sinagoga de Santa Maria La Blanca (San Maria Synagogue)
This is considered the oldest synagogue building in Europe still standing. Its stylistic and cultural classification is unique as it was constructed under the Christian rule by Islamic architects for Jewish use.
Sinagoga del Transito
This synagogue is famous for its rich stucco decoration. It holds a museum with exhibits about the Jewish history in Spain.
Iglesia de Santo Tome
This small church holds the masterpiece of El Greco, El Entierro del Conde Orgaz. As the name implies, the artist was born in Greece but lived and worked in Toledo for a long period of time. He is considered one of Spain’s Master Painters. A museum dedicated to the artist is located nearby.
Puerta de la Bisagra
This door was built to resemble a triumphal arch. It holds the imperial shield of the Roman Holy Emperor.
Puente de San Martin (Saint Martin’s Bridge)
This medieval bridge has five arches and two doors.
Puente de Alcantara
This bridge has Roman origin and was reconstructed during the Moorish and Christian times.
Resources
- For more info about the city, visit this site: http://www.toledo-turismo.com/en
- In addition, try Maribel’s Guide to Toledo (her guides are excellent)
- Rick Steves explains has tons of recommendations on how to tackle the city
Other Spain Day Tours
Toledo or Segovia? That is one hard question! I think a visit to any of these two cities is a wonderful experience. Therefore, there is no reason to stress out. Pick one (or both) and enjoy! Here is my post about Segovia in case you want to check it out.
More Ideas for Spain
- Remember this Toledo itinerary can be included on a longer trip to Spain. I have detailed instructions on how to spend the best two weeks in the country
- If you are in Madrid, do check out Historic Center, Mercado San Miguel and one of the many viewpoints scattered around the city
Have you been to Toledo? What are your recommendations for free things to do in the city? Other ideas for day tours in Spain or from Madrid?
Ready to pin? Let’s do this!
Traveling with kids? Acquire the gear for a perfect road trip in here.
Neesie says
It’s always wonderful to travel to new places and see amazing architecture Rita. I’ve never been to Toledo before now, so thank you for sharing your fantastic photographs.
Have a wonderful week 😀
Ruth says
You are right! Architecture is one of the things that draw me to European cities. I can’t get enough of the different styles in so many cities.
Carol says
Beautiful architecture – your series of photos is like a wonderful travel presentation
Ruth says
Thanks a lot Carol! Glad you enjoyed the post.
Sallie (FullTime-Life) says
Thank you for the travelogue.
Ruth says
Your welcome!
Photo Cache says
It is touristy for a reason. Visiting “all” of Spain is top on my list and I’d love to see these beautiful architectural in person.
Ruth says
Visiting “all” of Spain is something I would love to do. I wouldn’t mind living in the country. I just connect with it.
Yogi says
Great post, with wonderful photographs and a lot of information. I am fascinated by the synagogue designed by Islamic architects under Christian rule.
Ruth says
I was fascinated by that synagogue too. I thought it was very unique, like something I have never seen before.
Andrea says
Your description and photos make me realize i am so very much deprived. I hope i can still see Spain in this lifetime. So thank you so much.
Ruth says
I hope so too! Spain is one of my favorite countries in the world for a reason. It has great cities, food and natural areas.
Wandermust mummy says
We lived toledo! Much better than Madrid in our opinion
Ruth says
Well, I imagine it is nicer since it is smaller and cozier. Plus, there are tons of places to visit not only in the city but in the surrounding areas.
Tanja says
beautiful city! I’ve visited Madrid and Barcelona in Spain. I’d like to visit Toledo and Sevilla and Granada one day:) #citytripping
Ruth says
I want to visit Southern Spain too! I have plans for my grand tour but I need the time to do it ;0)
Hilary says
We spent three days in Toledo and loved it! Your photos are lovely! #citytripping
Ruth says
Wow! That sounds great! Where you able to visit the surrounding areas? I know the city is surrounded by artisan towns.
Lolo says
Ah anything related to Spain and I love it! I would love to visit Toledo! It looks absolutely beautiful! Pinned! #CityTripping
Ruth says
Me too! Spain has so many great places!
Corey with fifi + hop says
Absolutely love Toledo!! One of my favorite places ever! I lived in Madrid for college semester abroad and the city stole my heart too. Beautiful. #citytripping
Ruth says
I am pretty sure you got to know the city very well. It would be a dream to stay in the Madrid area for some time (a couple of months will do it for me).
Rhonda Albom says
Toledo is an interesting city. I enjoyed the El Grecco Museum and Castle of Guadamur.
Ruth says
Didn’t get to visit those two places! I googled the castle and it looks stunning! Thanks for the tip.
Sharon says
What varied and lovely architecture! I especially like the Jewish area. Thanks for such an information post and beautiful photos!
Ruth says
The Jewish Quarter was so beautiful! I found ton of surprises on it. It was a pleasure to stroll the streets.
Buckeroomama says
So informative! I love how rich in culture Toledo is… If I ever get to visit Spain again, I’d love to make a stop there.
Ruth says
Oh yes! This place is very rich in culture. Will need pages to describe all the historical events related to the city.
Suze says
Having seen your photos, I’d be tempted to stay for more than a day! I’d love to visit both Madrid and Toledo. The cathedral looks magnificent
Ruth says
Believe me, more than a day is needed. I felt bad rushing through the attractions (and skipping some).
Cathy (Mummytravels) says
I would love to visit Toledo (and Madrid… and Seville and Córdoba among others) and your photos have just confirmed that. Great tips on what there is to do there and some fascinating history. #citytripping
Ruth says
Thanks Cathy. Yes, there are so many places to visit in Spain. It is kind of difficult to decide what places to visit. It is like 10 trips are needed to properly see the country.
Van says
I have to admit, I actually haven’t heard much about Toledo before but the city looks so gorgeous, especially the palace!!
Ruth says
Agree! The Alcazar is the crown jewel of the city. It is huge! So bad I didn’t have time to enter. A guy told me they had an exhibition about Puerto Rico.
NatureFootstep Photo says
Interesting place I guess, but not my first choice 🙂
Ruth says
Ok,I get a feeling of the places you like.
Al says
It looks like a wonderful city – I’d love to spend some time exploring Spain. When I saw the post’s title I thought it would be about Toledo, Ohio, another city I’ve never seen.
Ruth says
Ha, ha! That is funny. Toledo, Ohio and Toledo, Spain are sister cities, by the way. I imagine they are very different.
Sharon Wagner says
Amazing architecture! I’ll look forward to seeing your Sedona photos too. Great travel minds think alike!
Ruth says
Sharon, agree! Seems like we have similar tastes in travel. Have a good one!
Bumble Bee Mum says
Wow, visiting the Valley viewpoint is definitely a must! That’s some amazing architecture going around. It’s hard to imagine trying to cover all these in a day trip! #CityTripping
Ruth says
I feel you. I think I rushed too much. Not enough time in one day to cover all the wonderful sights in the city.
alex muir says
Oh it does look so beautiful! Some bits remind me of Salamanca. We spent 48 hours on Madrid last year but unfortunately didn’t have time to see Toledo. I shall remember it for another trip. Oh, and I do love a good Roman bridge don’t you! #citytripping
Ruth says
Roman bridges rock! Have to agree with that. If you enjoy Roman ruins, you have to stop by Segovia. it is an easy day trip from Madrid too.
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
Such beautiful, beautiful architecture. Just wow! 🙂
Ruth says
Thanks Marcella! I was swoon by the architecture too!
Jesh StG- Bradbury dam CA says
It seems all the countries bordering the Medditerranean Sea are full of interesting places!
When we travel, we’re not trying to see as much as possible, but like to get a feel for the culture and way of living, as well as art. Long time ago we decided on the South of Spain, stayed at the town Malaga, birthplace of Picasso (where closeby the Rock of Gibraltar, and the Moorish palace (forgot its name)
By the way thanks for visiting me on Tuesday -couldn’t figure out if you are helping with the meme”Our world”?
Ruth says
Hello Jesh, I haven’t visited southern Spain but I know you are referring to The Alhambra (Moorish Palace). I do not help with the “Our World” meme but like to visit several people who participate.
Danielle says
Such a pretty city!! Lovely pictures and great explanation of all of the sites. Thank you for sharing! #farawayfiles
Ruth says
Your welcome Danielle! Glad you were able to get a glimpse of Toledo.
Sadie says
Toledo looks pretty amazing! The architecture is incredible and that bridge! It seems like the locals have worked hard to preserve their rich history.
Ruth says
I think this city has been protected by the country. Spaniards know this is a place full of history. They have worked hard to preserve the heritage.
Flo @ Yoga, Wine & Travel says
We are traveling to Spain this summer and doing a road trip (starting in Madrid) – I literally have 0 idea why Toledo isn’t on our list of places to visit! Pinned for later 🙂
Ruth says
Well, hope you can include Toledo in your plans. It is one of the prettiest places in Spain!
Ava Meena says
Very beautiful! I can see why it’s so popular.
Ruth says
Ava, you are right! I think it is pretty obvious why it is popular.
Katy says
Ruth I have been to Madrid several times now but never to Toledo although I have always wanted to. Loved your inspiring post so I’m more determined than ever to get there. Thanks for sharing with us on #farawayfiles
Ruth says
Katy, I am glad you have Toledo in your plans. This city will blow you away. There are so many interesting and charming places to visit.
budget jan says
Toledo is as you say easy to visit as a day trip from Madrid. We arrived by train and were captivated by the tile work and design of the train station. We stayed there so long that all the buses had left so we walked into the city!
Ruth says
I didn’t include the train station in here but it surely deserves a mention. I can’t believe such a beautiful building welcomes you to the city.
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
Toledo looks incredible! I can’t believe it hasn’t really been on my radar before! Your photos are fantastic particularly the ones from the valley viewpoint. Spain has so many pretty cities and towns with rich histories…I need another road trip! Thanks for linking to #citytripping
Ruth says
Agree with you! Maybe another road trip is needed. Believe me, I am dying to go back to the country.
jill says
Lovely! I’ve not been but my husband was in Spain for business and was able to tour Toledo for a day. Someday!
Ruth says
Lucky husband! It should be nice to be able to travel to interesting places for work. You guys have to go to Spain together.
Lynne Sarao says
Toledo is so unbelievably beautiful! It was one of my favourite day trips during my trip to Spain! Your photos and words capture it perfectly and really brought me back to one of my most memorable trips!
Ruth says
So glad you love Toledo too! I get chills thinking about it. I would like to explore more of the province in the future.
David says
Toledo looks incredible and just like my kind of destination. Sadly, my only visits to Madrid have been overnight transfers and so I never got the chance to do a day trip out. Your photos are amazing and I love me some grandiose architecture so this definitely confirms that I need, want and am compelled to visit Toledo the next time I’m in Spain. Pinned for then!
Ruth says
David, I think you will enjoy this part of Spain. Not sure how much time you have spent in the country but will recommend it if you have not explored a lot of it.
Allison says
Toleda looks amazing! It’s no wonder it’s stolen your heart. #weekendwanderlust
Ruth says
Thanks Allison, I am sure yo understand the reason.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
Toledo is beautiful, and you’re 100% correct; you can’t go to Spain and not go to Toledo! Thanks for linking up with #wkendtravelinspiration!
Ruth says
Your welcome Jim! The mix of cultures that still lives in Toledo is what makes it special. I am not sure if there city like this one.
Anda says
Toledo is one of the most amazing cities in Spain. I couldn’t stop taking pictures there while my husband and our son could’t stop shopping for swords. If you want original, best quality Spanish swords, then Toledo is the place to go. We had a very hard time bringing them home however.
Ruth says
Anda, the first time I went to Toledo, my travel companions had problems bringing the swords back home too. Customs wanted to confiscate them. After they complained and complained, they let the swords on the plane under but guarded by the flight attendants.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Toedo is definitely a place we’d like to visit. I have now been to Spain three time and have only visited the Cataluyna/Catalonia region! I love this area (hard to beat Barcelona, a beach lined coast, and mountains) but hope to see more of Spain on our next trip as I’ve never been to Toledo, Alhambra, or Madrid!
Ruth says
On the contrary, I have never been to the Costa Brava area. You need to check out other parts of Spain. I think you will find them very different from Catalonia.
Brooke of Passport Couture says
Fascinating to learn about a place that has a mix of Christian, Jewish, and Islam. I was thrilled to see all of the great architecture from synagogues to cathedrals to bridges. Thanks for sharing your explorations of Toledo!
Ruth says
I am glad you liked the post. The mix of cultures and architectural styles is what makes this city so unique.
Adventuresofajerseygirl says
Great post and beautiful photos. I was drawn to reading this as we visited Toledo a few years back, whilst on a trip to Madrid. The place is amazing and I loved the maze of little streets and you could explore do hours. We even climbed the bell tower, which I am still not over being afraid of heights but the views were spectacular. Great post #flyawayfriday
Ruth says
Are you referring to the cathedral’s bell tower? I didn’t know you were able to climb it. Bummer!
Erin Gustafson says
I love the way you talk about traveling to Toledo like it isn’t a choice! It has always seemed such an amazing blend of cultures and I would love to visit. Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Ruth says
Erin, glad you enjoyed that but there are certain cities that give you that feeling. It is like you really have to visit them for one reason or another.
Anna says
Toledo is such a beautiful city! Was there 5 years ago, and your pics made me wanna go back! Catedral Primada is one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals I´ve ever been to…#TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
Anna, I agree with you! The Cathedral is beyond words.
Wendy Taing says
Love!! Thank you so much for posting all the tips and beautiful photos! I’ve only been to Barcelona but taking a train around Spain is on my to-do list! Can’t wait to start planning that trip! xoxo
Ruth says
I will love to do more train travel around Spain. We have done the Madrid-Valencia-Barcelona-San Sebastian-Madrid circuit. Would like to do the southern part of the country.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
It’s funny. I don’t know many people who have been to Toledo, but everyone who has says it’s their favorite Spanish city! Unfortunately, our visit to Toledo will have to wait until next year, at least. But…Pinning this in case we get to go sooner! Thanks for the details and the gorgeous photos!
Ruth says
Rob, I totally get the people who say that. Toledo has everything you want to see and do in a concentrated core and still retains a small city feeling.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
I really enjoyed your photos and descriptions of Toledo, Ruth. It looks like the sort of place I’d like to spend longer in than is possible on a day trip. Great tips too. Thanks for sharing this on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Correct! I feel so bad for only having a day here. There is an entire province to explore.
Paula McInerney says
I am kicking myself that we couldn’t make it to Toledo. We wanted to but ended up with so much work in Madrid, we didn’t make it. Next time for sure. Great post
Ruth says
Thanks Paula. I hope you are able to visit Toledo in the future.
Nancie says
I loved Toledo even though I visited on a bitterly cold day. I want to go back again when the weather is warmer, and my hands don’t freeze to the camera. Thanks for the trip down memory lane. #TPThursday
Ruth says
Your welcome Nancie! I can’t think of the city (or the country) as a cold place even though I know in can get miserable in the northern and central regions.
Vlad says
Toledo looks absolutely gorgeous, your photos have made me want to go even more. I may go to Madrid sometime this year, hoping to squeeze in a visit to Toledo as well. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
That would be great. Spain is always a good idea (at least to me).
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Silly me thought you meant Toledo, Ohio. Looks like there’s so much to do that it would be hard to cram it all into a daytrip. I’d really like to take that bus ride outside the walls, the San Maria Synagogue and the Gothic Cathedral.
Ruth says
You are not the only one! Looks like I need to make it to Toledo, Ohio. The two cities are sisters.
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields says
We once drove right around the coast of Spain and Portugal but never made it to the centre. It is on our list though so thanks for the tips – we might stay more than one day.
Ruth says
Wow! That sounds great! I bet you saw a lot of beautiful cities and places.
Photo(Geo)grapher says
What a charming city! You can imagine the street and the buildings telling their stories… Great captures!
Ruth says
You have a put things in a perfect way. Thanks for your comment.
India says
Thanks for the great tips. My husband and I are heading to Spain in the summer! Will definitely try to get here!
Ruth says
Hope you can go to Toledo. I am sure you will love the city.
Kana says
At first, I thought you were talking about Toledo Ohio and was shocked – haha! But really, the photos are absolutely gorgeous! Need to get myself to Spain!!! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday, hope to see you again this week!
Ruth says
Well, if you take a look at the comments, you are going to notice you are not the only one. Will have to visit that Toledo.
Chloe says
Aww Toledo is so pretty! I went a few years ago when I studied abroad in Madrid and loved it. Such beautiful alley ways and architecture!!
Ruth says
Wow! I would have loved to study in Madrid. So great you had that opportunity.
Ron says
Thank you, Ruth !