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Welcome to the religion capital of Spain… Toledo, which has impressed me with its narrow streets and unique architecture, is on Unesco World Heritage List and I think it is definitely worth extending your Madrid holiday for at least 1 day…
Toledo is built on a hill surrounded by the Tagus River. In other words, it is on a safe hill which is protected by the river from 3 sides, which makes it difficult to occupy. With this strategic location and with its strong church, it was Spain’s capital before Madrid. After the capital was moved to Madrid, the power of the church continued. For this reason, it is now known as the religion capital.
The oldest remaining building of this city, which has been home to many different religions and cultures throughout its history, is a mosque dating back to 999, but you can also visit the magnificent churches and synagogues.
A day trip from Madrid is enough to explore this beautiful city, but if you are interested in history and museums, I recommend you to stay here for 1 or 2 nights. There are many museums and historical buildings to visit.
Transportation to Toledo
Toledo is easily accessible from Madrid by train or bus. You will be in Toledo in about 30 minutes by train and in about 45 minutes by bus. You can check the train times here and the bus times here.
Getting around in Toledo
After getting off the train or bus, you can take the city bus to the old town square. There is also a touristic train to go around the city but I think the best way to explore this city is walking and getting lost in the streets.
After getting off your transportation vehicle, you find yourself in the old city centre after a short walk in the steep streets.
And our trip begins…
Zocodover
This is Toledo’s old town square, surrounded by beautiful buildings. There are, of course, many cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops around.
Toledo Cathedral
Cathedral of Toledo, which fascinates with its gothic architecture, is surrounded by works of famous Spanish painters in the inside. It is also the second largest cathedral in Spain. Like many cathedrals in Spain, it took quite a long time to complete, 267 years!
Church of San Ildefonso
This is the second biggest church in Toledo after the cathedral. Again, it is quite impressive and you can enjoy a great view of the city from the towers of this church.
Alcantara Bridge
This is one of the two old bridges that connect the city to the other side of the valley. The view of Toledo Castle is fascinating when you cross the valley.
Toledo Castle
This is the old royal palace of Spain. It is now turned into a museum, for those interested in old weapons and armour.
San Martin Bridge
This is the bridge on the other side of the city. When you cross the opposite side, you have the chance to watch a beautiful view of the old city.
Bisagra and Sol gates
These are the gates of the historic city. They’re pretty well preserved.
Synagogues
There are two different synagogues that you can visit in the so-called Jewish quarter. They are said to be quite different in architecture, but I did not visit.
Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes
Also in the Jewish quarter, this beautiful monastery is open to tourist visits.
El Greco Museum
The famous painter, who is originally from Greece, spent most of his life in the city. The house where he lived is now a museum. His most famous painting is on a wall in the Toledo Cathedral.
Shopping in Toledo
There are, of course, things you can buy that are unique to Toledo. This city’s marzipan is very famous. It is said that the best is made by nuns in the monasteries. I didn’t particularly buy marzipan, but the marzipan cake I ate a cafe was incredibly delicious.
Toledo is also a world famous city for sword making. It is said that the swords used in many Hollywood movies and even in the Game of Thrones series were made in Toledo.
Things to do in Toledo:
- Get lost in the streets
- Cross the river and enjoy the panoramic views
- Try the famous marzipan
- Watch the city view from the church tower
And there’s Mirador del Valle, which I didn’t visit because of the weather conditions. This is a scenic view point on the other side of the valley. If you go, don’t forget to send me photos 🙂
In short, extend your holiday to Madrid for a day, but be sure to visit this beautiful historic city.
