Being a hub of history, culture and activities, there are so many things to do in Toledo. It’s the perfect day trip for anyone visiting the Spanish capital and allows you to immerse yourself in intriguing heritage. You can easily explore most of Toledo in a day, but there are some sights you absolutely can’t miss.
Below we highlight 7 of the best things to do in Toledo that are perfect for a day trip from Madrid.
Plaza Zocodover
Toledo rests atop a hill and once you’ve reached the top you will quickly find yourself in Plaza Zocodover. This is the main square of Toledo and a good place to start your day trip from Madrid. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes and restaurants which creates a very welcoming atmosphere.
You’ll immediately notice that there are a lot of sword shops around the square. Toledo has very much embraced its historical past and you’ll find plenty of shops selling historic sword replicas as well as some models from famous video games and movies. While it’s fun to explore the different weaponry, we’d suggest you stick to browsing as you likely won’t be able to take any of the replicas back home with you.
Catedral Primada de Toledo
Head southwest from the plaza and you’ll stumble upon Catedral Primada de Toledo, the Toledo Cathedral. This breathtaking Gothic cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain, with imposing minarets and a striking facade. Many guided tours of Toledo include a Cathedral visit, allowing travellers to see the incredible interior architecture firsthand.
The cathedral has an extensive history, making it one of the top things to do in Toledo. It began as a church in the 6th century CE under the Visigoths but was then converted into a Muslim mosque. In 1226 AD under the mandate of the Archbishop, construction of the cathedral began on the foundations of the previous temples.
Author’s Tip: There is a small pool of water just opposite the cathedral, in front of the tourist information office. If you want to take an amazing photo on your day trip to Toledo, be sure to capture the cathedral’s reflection on the water. It makes for an excellent photo opportunity!
The Alcázar
The Alcázar of Toledo is an astonishing stone fortress that sits on the highest point of the city. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rivers and hills, making it a must-visit when on a day trip to Toledo. The fortress has immense historical significance, having been a Roman palace and medieval fortress before being converted to the site of army offices and the military academy.
While exploring the Alcázar, spend some time in the Army Museum where you can learn more about the history of Spain through artefacts, weapons, uniforms, and other military memorabilia. There are also exemplary collections of military documents like maps and manuscripts that provide more details about significant military campaigns. It’s one of the best things to do in Toledo for history buffs and will be a real treat for those who adore military history.
Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes
To the western side of the Old Town visitors can find the Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes, a Franciscan monastery built by the Catholic Monarchs in the late 15th century. The monastery stands out from other Toledo attractions thanks to its pristine buttresses and elegant courtyard, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike.
The Isabelline Gothic architecture of the monastery is a treat for the eyes, allowing visitors to notice slight differences in styles and motifs. There is also an abundance of decoration and intricate detailing around the main chapel, making this one of the most beautiful buildings in Toledo. It’s one of the best things to do in Toledo as you can dive into the religious history of the city and enjoy some respite on the beautiful grounds.
Puente de San Martín
There are a few bridges that connect Toledo to the surrounding area, each offering a different perspective of the idyllic natural landscape. However, if there is one bridge that you don’t want to miss on a day trip to Toledo, it’s certainly Puente de San Martín. Located just south of the monastery, this medieval bridge spans the Tagus River and is the ideal place to stop and admire the scenery.
The bridge is notable for its five arches and defensive towers which dowse the area in a historic ambience. It’s a great place to go for a refreshing stroll after exploring the top sites in Toledo and provides stunning views of the river and city.
Mirador del Valle
As you explore Toledo, you will notice that there is a good selection of viewpoints or ‘miradors’ that are dotted around the city. These are all exceptional places to see in Toledo as you can take impressive photos of the surrounding natural beauty and admire the striking Toledo skyline.
Mirador del Valle is found south of Toledo, on the southern bank of the Tagus River. From this prime vantage point, visitors can take in sweeping views of the area and marvel at the impressive architecture of Toledo. For a real treat, visit around sunrise or sunset and watch as the city becomes painted in hues of the brightest orange.
Museo del Greco
If there’s one thing you absolutely have to do on your Toledo day trip, it’s exploring Museo del Greco. This fascinating museum is dedicated to the works of the famous painter El Greco who lived and worked in Toledo from 1577 CE. The museum has been designed to recreate a 16th-century home, allowing visitors to imagine the day-to-day life of the painter.
The exhibitions at the museums feature El Greco’s works, including some of his most famous paintings that highlight his individual style. It also gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about El Greco’s life and artistic process, as well as his contributions to the Spanish Renaissance. What’s more, it’s the only museum in the world dedicated to El Greco, providing visitors with a unique experience that is perfect for art-loving travellers.