With its fun-to-get-lost-on winding cobblestone roads and its medieval atmosphere, Toledo is more than a worthy option for a day trip. It has, of course, become an essential stop for anyone spending time in Spain due to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
But never mind that this incredibly old and alluring city, once the capital of the Spanish Empire, is no longer an unnoticed gem and, no doubt, rife with tourists when the weather’s nice. If you want to experience a city that dates back to the Roman Occupation of 192BC, a city that will wow you with its old architecture and art, a city that sells awesome swords, then you won’t regret your choice to go. So don’t hesitate to hop on the next train, bus or car ride to Toledo for a day trip you’ll never forget.
flickr/lucan2008
Upon your arrival, no doubt you’ll notice the way the city majestically sits atop a hill surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River. It’s quite a sight. And if you don’t mind a steep walk, I recommend going by foot through the entrance of the walled city up to where the old quarter is perched. You’ll get more than your fill of picturesque views that way. Once you make it into the old city, that’s when the sightseeing adventures really begin.
But what can you do in a day?
Visit the Santa Cruz Museum. Not only do major exhibitions pass through this cultural venue, but also the buildings were converted from the old Hospital de Santa Cruz and the Santa Fe Convent. And the courtyard is quite lovely.
Get an aerial perspective of the city at the Alcazar Fortress. From the Castile-La Mancha Library located in one of the towers you can even grab a coffee and skim some books while you enjoy the vista.
flickr/Never House
Wander through the old Jewish Quarter. While you’re there you’ll probably run into El Tránsito Synagogue, which is also the home of the Sephardic Museum. Inside the temple there’s all sorts of lovely plasterwork to be seen. And the museum is great for learning about Jewish tradition in Spain.
Eat at one of the many old Toledo mansions-turned-restaurants. These places are incredibly charming due to their old-style Toledo décor. Some delicious dishes include cocido (a chickpea stew), carcamusas (stewed pork with tomato), or a type of game dish such as venison or partridge.
Find your way to the Toledo Cathedral. This stop is a must-see. There are enough sparkling gold distractions, extraordinary oil paintings, and portraits of the city’s most renowned individuals throughout its history that you’ll most likely want to spend hours here. Do not miss the art gallery there unless you want to pass up seeing works by Raphael, Rubens, Goya, Titian, and El Greco.
flickr/Alexei Malutin
Taste some Toledo sweets from the convent neighborhood. Take a walk down to the convents of San Antonio, San Clemente and the Agustinas Calzadas where they sell sweets and pastries made by the nuns themselves.
By the time you’ve completed this list, you’ll certainly be exhausted and your day trip will be coming to an end. Of course, if you’re too tired to make the trip back, you could always stay the night!
Some of the best hotel options in Toledo include Oasis Toledo – Hostel (Budget), Hotel Carlos V (Mid-range), and Sercotel San Juan de los Reyes (Luxury).
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