The UNESCO World Heritage site of Segovia lies just 90km north-west of Madrid and makes for one of Spain’s most rewarding day trips. This compact medieval city offers visitors a journey through Spain’s golden age with its remarkably preserved ancient monuments and atmospheric old town. Best of all, tourists in the Spanish capital can easily arrange a Madrid to Segovia day trip thanks to a number of convenient transport options which are ideal for visitors with limited time who want to experience the essence of Old Castile.
The fastest way to get from Madrid to Segovia is on the high-speed AVE train which whisks visitors from Madrid’s Chamartín station to Segovia-Guiomar station in just 27 minutes. Alternatively, there are regular bus services from Moncloa station which provide an economical alternative, reaching Segovia in approximately 1¼ hours. Driving offers flexibility with a straightforward 90-minute route via the AP-6 and AP-61 highways.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the city’s most astonishing feature – a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct stretching 800 metres through the heart of town. Your Madrid to Segovia day trip continues with the elegant 16th-century Gothic cathedral and the fairytale Alcázar perched dramatically on a rocky promontory, widely believed to have inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
What makes a Madrid to Segovia day trip particularly appealing is how easily you can combine architectural splendour with culinary excellence. The city’s restaurants are famous for traditional Castilian specialties like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and cordero asado (roast lamb), drawing weekend crowds of discerning Madrileños.
For those seeking maximum value, organized Madrid to Segovia day trips often include transportation and stops at nearby historical gems like the walled city of Ávila. Whether travelling independently or with a tour, this accessible journey through Spain’s golden age delivers unforgettable experiences just a short ride from Madrid.
Madrid to Segovia Day Trips: Transport
Madrid to Segovia by Train
There are several trains per day from Madrid’s Atocha station in the south of the city which arrive in the main train station at Calle Obispo Quesada. Please note that these are regional services travelling on the ‘Cercanias’ network with a journey time of around two hours each which isn’t particularly convenient for day trippers. A far better option is the high-speed AVE service which only takes 25 minutes from Madrid’s Chamartin station arriving in the Segovia-Guiomar station which is about 5km from the tourist centre. Bookings can be made online through the RENFE website. On arrival there are frequent buses and taxis are available to take you into town.
Madrid to Segovia by Bus
You can get public bus services to Segovia with Avanzabus from the Moncloa bus station in Madrid. This is a most comfortable service with departures every 30 minutes which take about 1¼ hours to get there. The bus arrival point in Segovia is on Paseo de Ezequiel Gonzalez which is a very short walk to the Roman aqueduct and the city’s other main tourist attractions.
Madrid to Segovia by Car
As a rule it’s not particularly recommended to hire a car if you’re just taking a short break to Madrid, however, if you do have a car available then Segovia is easy enough to get to. Just take the A-6 northwest out of the city which becomes the AP-6 toll road just beyond Collado Villalba. Continue along this road until you see signs for Segovia on the AP-61 shortly after San Rafael which is another toll road which goes directly into the city. This route is around 90km and will take you around 1¼ hours. If time isn’t an issue there are more scenic routes going right through the Sierra de Guararrama mountains.
Organised Tours from Madrid to Segovia
Many organized tours from Madrid to Segovia offer the opportunity to visit other nearby historical sites, making for a comprehensive cultural experience. Popular combinations include:
Ávila: Just 68km west of Segovia, this UNESCO World Heritage site features perfectly preserved 11th-century walls with 88 towers encircling a medieval city rich in religious heritage. The impressive cathedral, part of the defensive walls and sites associated with Saint Teresa of Ávila make this a natural companion to Segovia.
El Escorial: This UNESCO-listed Royal Monastery built by Philip II houses an extraordinary complex including a palace, basilica, library with 40,000 volumes and royal pantheon. Its austere magnificence exemplifies Spain’s Golden Age architecture and provides insight into the Spanish monarchy.
Valley of the Fallen (Valle de Cuelgamuros): Recently renamed from Valle de los Caídos, this controversial monument features the world’s tallest memorial cross (150m) and a basilica carved into the mountain. Built between 1940-1958, it holds complex historical significance related to the Spanish Civil War and Franco era. Tours typically provide important historical context for understanding this site.
These combined tours offer excellent value for travellers with limited time, providing a broader understanding of central Spain’s rich cultural landscape in a single day trip from Madrid.
Things to See in Segovia
The Roman Aqueduct: One of Spain’s most impressive Roman structures, Segovia’s aqueduct is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Built in the 1st century AD, it spans over 800 metres and consists of more than 160 arches, all constructed without mortar. The best viewpoint is in Plaza del Azoguejo, where the aqueduct reaches its highest point.
Alcázar of Segovia: The Alcázar of Segovia is a striking fortress which appears straight out of a fairy tale. Perched on a rocky promontory, it has served as a royal palace, military academy and state archive. Visitors can explore its lavishly decorated rooms, climb the Tower of Juan II for panoramic views and learn about its history in the on-site museum.
Segovia Cathedral: Segovia’s cathedral is a stunning example of late Gothic architecture. Located in Plaza Mayor, it boasts intricate stained-glass windows, soaring vaulted ceilings and an impressive altarpiece. Visitors can also climb the tower for breathtaking views over the city.
The Jewish Quarter: Segovia’s Jewish Quarter is a fascinating area filled with narrow streets, historic synagogues and cultural centres which shed light on the city’s medieval Jewish community. The Centro Didáctico de la Judería offers an insightful look into the history of Jewish life in Segovia.
Church of Vera Cruz: Located slightly outside the main city centre, the Church of Vera Cruz is an intriguing 12-sided Romanesque church built by the Knights Templar. Its unusual design and connection to medieval religious orders make it a worthwhilst stop for history enthusiasts.
Casa de los Picos: This 15th-century mansion is famous for its striking façade adorned with pyramid-shaped granite blocks. Today, it serves as an art school and exhibition space, but its unique exterior remains the main attraction.
La Granja de San Ildefonso: Located just 12km south-east of Segovia is the Bourbon summer palace of La Granja. This was built in the early 18th century by Philip V, Spain’s first Bourbon king. It’s well worth taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens with their spectacular fountains, surrounded by the mountains of the Sierra De Guadarrama.
