Toledo was the capital of Spain until 1561, when Philip II moved it to Madrid

Once divided into Christian, Moorish and Jewish quarters, Toledo has a rich history.

Catedral Primada
Take a visit to the Gothic Cathedral Primada where the first stone was laid in 1226. Explor the many rooms housing the cathedral’s treasures including some of the most famous works of El Greco.


Salamanca's Plaza Mayor, the centre of it all, events, music, food and exhibitions.

Two cathedrals

One dating from the 12th-13th centuries; and a newer from the 16th century. The Old Cathedral is in the Romanesque style with the outstanding Gallo Tower.


Defending a city

The Medieval walls, 2.5km long, are punctuated by 88 turrets and 9 gates, Puerta de San Vicente and Puerta de Alcázar being the most impressive of those guarding the Romanesque defensive rampart. You can walk along the entire perimeter of the city walls on the outer side. Activities include ‘Theatre in the City Walls’, “Legendary Guided Tours’, ‘Medieval Festivals”, and others.

 

Some of the best beef in Spain comes from this region and a specialty in many cafés in Avila is Chuliton, a large grilles steak and fried potatoes chops.

Barco, a local bean soup made from Judías de El Barco de Ávila

Day & Weekend Trips from Madrid
A quick train trip and a quiet day or two visiting some of Spain's most historic towns.
Toledo, Ávila and Salamanca.

TOLEDO, the old capital
A short train trip from Madrid, Toledo is perfect for a day trip or weekend get away.

Take a walking tour

Begin at the Moorish Quarter by the Gate of Alfonso VI and stroll through an interesting part of the city, away from the usual tourist areas, down narrow meandering streets. Take a tapa break at one of the local cafés. Visit a quiet plaza or garden as you go.

A traditional tapa found everywhere,
Spanish Pisto, a tasty vegitable dish often served with a fried egg on top.


SALAMANCA
Founded in the 1100s and a key intellectual center in the 15th-16th centuries.

Salamanca is home to the oldest active university in Spain, the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218 by Alfonso IX of León on the germ of its stadium general, and which was the first in Europe to hold the title of university by royal decree of Alfonso X of Castile dated November 9, 1252

Visitors take advantage of the hams and sausages produced in the area.


ÁVILA
About an hours train trip from Madrid
Named a World Heritage Site in 1985, this Castilian city is most known for the medieval city walls, that were constructed in 1090.

The old historic centre is the fine result of fruitful interaction between the Jews, the Muslims and the Christians. Today it's a lively city of medieval streets filled with shops, restaurants museums and historic sites.

Walk the medieval cobblestone streets, Ávila might be an old city but thousands live within its walls where you'll find schools, hotels, shops and many great restaurants serving local dishes.

Wrap up well if you plan to visit in autumn and winter, night temperatures can drop below freezing and mornings can be cold and foggy.