Madrid

If you are planning to spend more than a couple of days in Madrid, you should really consider an expedition (or a few more, why not?) to the near cities and their monuments. The majority of them are fairly easy to reach, be it by bus, train, an organized tour, or by car.Toledo

Toledo is located just 50 kilometers (that is 31 miles) away from Madrid. It was the Capital of Spain for more than five centuries and it features some really great Jewish, Moorish and Christian monuments. While you are there, do not forget to visit the Cathedral (one of the biggest in the world) or the Alcazar. The Alcazar is a historically rich, restored fortress. It was restored after it went through the Spanish Civil War. If you are looking to get more information or tips, you should consider visiting the city’s tourism webpage. You should also consider staying more than just a day in Toledo. That way you will experience much more.

Segovia

Segovia is a little farther than Toledo. It is located 88 kilometers from Madrid (55 miles), but can be reached fairly easily by bus, by car or by train. It is an amazing city, located in the center of the mountains. It is famous for its Gothic cathedral, Roman aqueduct, the Castilian cuisine and for its medieval part of this town. Here is a tip for you: if you want to visit Segovia, go on the weekdays. This is because the people of Madrid usually flood it on the weekends. You can find out more about Segovia on their website, Segovia Turismo.

El Escorial

El Escorial is the monastery and palace of King Philip II. It is located just 40 km from Madrid (25 miles). It features a large number of old buildings (16th century) and an amazing royal palace. At the palace you can visit the king’s private apartments and bedroom, both amazingly austere.

Valle de los Caidos

The monument Valle de los Caidos (meaning the Valley of the Fallen) is dedicated to the victims of the Spanish Civil War. It features an amazing basilica that was built by the prisoners of General Franco. Some estimate that there are well over 40,000 dead Nationalists and Republicans soldiers behind the walls.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is another tourist attraction. General Franco used to live there and it still holds and entertains VIPs even today. It features some amazing riverside gardens that look beautiful when the weather is nice, as well as the lovely city of Chinchon.