Matt
Having Spain’s largest international airport, Madrid is often the most common arrival point for most who visit Spain – no wonder there is an endless list of things to and tours that depart from Madrid.
Madrid offers a thriving, colourful atmosphere, ideal for sightseeing and shopping, and provides the most delectable, unforgettable cuisine. A world within a city, it boasts the perfect location right in the heart of Spain itself, making it the perfect base when it comes to exploring the rest of the country.
Whether you are considering a short half-day tour or if you have a little longer to venture out even further to neighbouring cities, you’ll no doubt find something perfect for you. These tours from Madrid are the best-guided day trips from the capital.
Take a look at a different side of this spectacular country and still be back in Madrid for the evening tapas crawl and flamenco dance shows.
1. Toledo Full-Day Tour From Madrid City
Embark on a full-day tour from Madrid to discover the magnificent city of Toledo, more famously known as the “City of Three Cultures.” You will receive a panoramic tour of the city, which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986.
The bus will stop at some of the famous points around the city of Toledo until you reach the main square of Zocodover. Here you have six hours to explore the city of Toledo. We highly recommend seeing Toledo’s Cathedral, famed for being the second most opulent Catholic building in the world!
Admire the impressive fortress of Alcazar, and El Greco’s famous world-renowned painting named the Count Orga’z Burial.
Some of our favourite Toledo attractions are the narrow streets in the Jewish Quarter, the Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue, Mirador de Valle, and San Juan de Los Reyes monastery. This city is filled with a spectacular mix of architectural styles to soak in and snap a few photos.
What We Love Most:
- Round trip going to and from Madrid and Toledo
- Documentary on the bus trip
- Panoramic bus tour of Toledo
Check tour dates and book your Toledo full-day tour here!
2. Madrid Day tours to Guadarrama National Park
For a truly unforgettable experience just 40 minutes from Madrid, immerse yourself in nature with a full day trip to the Guadarrama National Park. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Spain’s nature and wildlife. Your local guide will highlight popular places not to be missed, such as Puerto de Cotos, Puerto de la Morcuera, and La Pedriza.
The Guadarrama National Park is Spain’s fourth-largest national park and is home to 11 recognized ecosystems. The park has an abundance of wildlife species, including wild boar, Liberian wolf, roe deer, fallow deer, mountain goats, wildcats, foxes, hares, and badgers. Not to mention it hosts more than 1,500 native flora species.
After the park tour, make your way to the medieval constructions left from a 500-year old castle, the Manzanares el Real Castle. It’s a truly unforgettable experience to be able to see an abandoned castle that was once home to royals and opulence.
What We Love Most:
- Entrance to the Manzanares el Real Castle
- Marvel at beautiful Sierra de Guadarrama landscapes
- Enjoy a walking tour inside the Guadarrama National Parks
- Visit famous places like La Pedriza, Puerto de Navacerrada, and Puerto de la Morcuera.
Check tour dates and book your trip to Guadarrama National Park here!
3. Three Cities Day Trip: Segovia, Avila, and Toledo
Pack the best of central Spain into one incredible day. Take an 11-hour tour and explore the three cities – Segovia, Avila, and Toledo – from Madrid. Your professional guide will introduce you to the landscapes, culture, and history of Spain.
Visit the historic Roman ruins and famous landmarks, and learn why all three cities are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Admire the convent of Santa Teresa in Avila, and the spectacular Roman aqueduct in Segovia. The tour will end in Toledo, where you’ll explore one of the city’s hidden gems – the famous Gothic Cathedral! Here you will enter and meet a monastery of nuns, where you’ll get to taste a traditional Toledo marzipan.
Get your camera ready for an unforgettable experience in these three cities before you head back to Madrid.
What We Love Most:
- A professionally guided tour of Segovia, Avila, and Toledo
- Marzipan tasting from a centuries-old recipe
- Tour the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo
- Explore a Roman aqueduct at Segovia
- Visit Spain’s first Gothic Cathedral
Check tour dates and book your trip to the Three Cities here!
4. Guided City Tour of Segovia with Hot Air Balloon Adventure
Discover the rich heritage and true beauty of Segovia from land and sky during an epic city tour, and a hot air balloon trip. You’ll start the journey with a splendid hot air balloon experience as you glide over the city and spot its iconic sights like the Cathedral and the Roman aqueduct.
Once you’ve landed, explore the city on foot. The city’s former royal palace and fortress, and the Alcazar Real, should not be missed.
What We Love Most:
- Explore Segovia’s historic locations like Roman Aqueducts, Alcazar Real during a walking tour
- Enjoy a day of culture and history with a bilingual guide
- Be in awe at the breathtaking scenic views of Segovia city in a hot air balloon
Check tour dates and book your trip to Segovia here!
5. Wine Tasting Tour From Madrid
For wine lovers, this is a day spent in absolute heaven. Visit three wineries and enjoy tasting more than 10 different wines in the Vinos de Madrid Do on a full-day Spanish wine tour.
Explore the scenic Madrid wine Region and learn about the complex production processes in the wine cellars, also known as a bodega. The tour is led by an expert guide.
Enjoy sampling signature wines grown in the Region and gain insight into the Spanish capital’s heritage.
For a few fantastic alternatives, check out our favourite Madrid wine tours.
What We Love Most:
- Enjoy a full-day spent exploring Vinos de Madrid Do – a classified wine region just outside Madrid
- Explore three prestigious contemporary and classic wineries in the area
- Sample various wines as you learn about the biodynamic wine made in the Region
Check tour dates and book your wine tasting trip from Madrid!
6. Half-day Tour to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez
If you’re looking for a tour that dives into Spain’s royal history, this tour is made just for you. Embark on a spectacular 4-hour half-day tour to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, and explore the former residence of the Spanish monarchy. As a 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage site, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez is rich in history and fascinating stories.
Soak in the atmosphere as you stroll through the impressive, picturesque grounds. Admire the preserved architecture and fountains of this 12th-century historic landmark.
What We Love Most:
- Guided tour of the palace and grounds
- Listen to fascinating stories about the palace and the Spanish royals
Check tour dates and book your trip to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez here!
7. Day tour to Cuenca & the Enchanted City
Enjoy a full-day tour to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca. Here you will get to explore the medieval city. Walk among the narrow streets and postcard houses that look as though they hang on the cliff’s edge.
Along your trip, you’ll stop at a countryside winery and the Enchanted City, where you’re surrounded by scenic beauty and strange-looking geological formations in the landscapes.
What We Love Most:
- Enjoy a guided tour of Cuenca
- Visit the Ventana del Diablo
- Enjoy stops at wineries along your way
- Explore the Enchanted city and the strange stone formations
Check tour dates and book your trip to Cuenca and the Enchanted City here!
8. Half-Day tour to El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen
Hop on an enriching half-day tour to El Escorial Monastery and The Valley of the Fallen and uncover the mysteries of these spectacular historical landmarks. You’ll start your day travelling through the picturesque countryside from Madrid.
Be awed at the monumental memorial of The Valley of the Fallen, a sculpture in commemoration for the victims of the Spanish civil war. Soak in the splendorous scenery as you tour the long-time residence of the King of Spain, El Escorial.
What We Love Most:
- Enjoy a tour from Madrid to UNESCO-listed El Escorial landmark and The Valley of the Fallen
- Visit the residence of the King of Spain
- Gain valuable insight into Madrid’s rich history at The Valley of the Fallen
Check tour dates and book your Half-Day tour to El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen here!
9. Private Tour to Toledo from Madrid
Why not enjoy the ultimate full-day trip, your own private tour, and guide when visiting the city of Toledo. Ride in luxury and comfort as you enjoy a customized tour of the city and learn about its history.
This private tour is customized to take you to some of the city’s most fascinating museums and monuments. You can choose from a range of different options for your private tour guide to take you to, as well as your own free time. Your hotel pickup and drop-off will be included.
What We Love Most:
- A private personalized tour in comfort
- A private tour guide to the cities most important museums and monuments
- Includes skip-the-line admission to the Toledo Cathedral
Check tour dates and book your private tour to Toledo from Madrid here!
10. Private Tour to Segovia and La Granja from Madrid
Ever wanted to see a fairytale land come to life? Embark on a 10-hour private tour to Segovia and La Granja from Madrid. Discover the historical charms of the city with your private guide.
Stroll through the scenic gardens of La Granja de San Ildefonso’s Royal Palace and view its breathtaking interior. The city, Segovia, is famous for its Roman aqueduct, and many other popular landmarks such as the Cathedral of Segovia and Alcazar.
Alcazar takes you back to medieval times. It was originally built as a fortress and is currently being used as a museum and a military archives building.
Enjoy a superb hassle-free day with private transportation.
What We Love Most:
- A private tour of Segovia and the La Granja Palace
- A personalized experience with your private guide
Check tour dates and book your private tour to Segovia and La Granja from Madrid here!
11. Day Trip to Toledo & Don Quixote Windmills Tour with Cheese Tasting
Enjoy a day trip to see the splendors of Toledo from Madrid. Take a tour to see famous UNESCO World Heritage sights with your personal guide.
Get your camera ready when you explore famous places like the Gothic Cathedral, a sword workshop, the Jewish quarter, and the city’s highest peak.
You will get to stop over to take a look at the windmills of La Mancha, and learn the history of ‘Don Quixote’ as you enjoy a wine and cheese tasting at the windmill cafe.
What We Love Most:
- An expert guide shows you the best of Toledo
- Learn about medieval weapons and how they were made at a sword workshop
- Taste delicious manchego cheese and wine at a windmill
Check tour dates and book your day trip to Toledo & Don Quixote Windmills Tour with Cheese Tasting!
Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Madrid
Madrid is known to be the vibrant capital of Spain, yet venturing out of the bustling metropolis offers you an entirely new world of experiences. Enjoy electrifying historical medieval sights like no other, taste traditional ancient recipes, view imposing architectural monuments, and soak in the Spanish culture.
Relish days spent on the wine route in Madrid’s popular wine region. Visit one or all of these notable locations for a lifetime of memories. Don’t miss the cathedrals and tombs in Toledo, and walk on the royal ground at El Escorial.
No matter what tour option you decide on, there is something for everyone! Enjoy some of the best day trips from Madrid.
