Madrid day trips: 5 amazing getaways less than 1 hour away
Are you looking for Madrid weekend escapes? Well, the city, in itself, has plenty to offer, but some of Spain’s most captivating towns, royal sites, and wine regions lie just beyond the capital. So, whether you are in the mood for medieval streets, palaces fit for kings, or a vineyard afternoon, there is a perfect day trip waiting.
In this guide, we have handpicked five of the best day trips from Madrid that deliver history, culture, and unforgettable experiences…and all within an hour.
Why take a day trip from Madrid?
Thanks to the city’s strategic location, you can escape from Madrid and appear in a new world in just an hour. Isn’t it cool? Here are a couple of trips near Madrid by train you can take:
- Experience UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Toledo and Segovia
- Enjoy local wines and cuisine in the countryside towns
- Visit less crowded cultural gems and scenic views
- Maximize your time with efficient half- or full-day tours
- Add variety to your stay without changing hotels
Toledo – A medieval city full of wonders
Known for its cultural fusion and hilltop views, Toledo is one of the most iconic day trips from Madrid.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Toledo Cathedral – A Gothic masterpiece with rich interior details
- El Greco Museum – Showcasing the life and work of the Renaissance painter
- Jewish Quarter & San Martin Bridge – Atmospheric alleys with riverside views
How to get there?
- Train: 33 minutes from Madrid Atocha
- Car: 1-hour drive for a Toledo day trip
Suggested duration: Full day
Best day to visit: Wednesday to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy full museum access
Plan your visit: Discover Toledo: Private Tour from Madrid
Segovia – Castles, aqueducts & suckling pig
Segovia is for architecture lovers and foodies, with a stunning Roman aqueduct, a castle straight out of a fairytale, and roast suckling pig you will not forget. Segovia from Madrid is just an hour away.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Roman Aqueduct – 2,000-year-old engineering marvel
- Alcázar of Segovia – Turreted castle said to inspire Disney
- Traditional lunch at a mesón – Famous for cochinillo asado
How to get there:
- Train: 28-minute AVE train from Madrid Chamartín
- Car: 1-hour drive
Suggested Duration: Full day
Best Day to Visit: Sunday is ideal for a relaxed stroll and lunch
Explore more: Segovia: City of Kings from Madrid
Aranjuez – Royal gardens & palaces
Aranjuez, a lesser-known gem ideal for a calm escape when it comes to Madrid day tours, is known for its palaces and lush landscapes.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Royal Palace of Aranjuez – Lavish interiors and Spanish royal history
- Jardín del Príncipe – Vast landscaped park perfect for a slow stroll
- Tagus River boat ride – Serene views of palace grounds from the water
How to get there:
- Train: 45 minutes from Madrid Atocha
- Car: 50-minute drive
Suggested duration: Half-day to full day
Best day to visit: Friday for quieter than weekends, yet everything is open.
El Escorial – A monastery fit for a king
This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines a palace, basilica, library, and royal tombs.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial – Massive 16th-century complex
- Pantheon of Kings – Burial site of Spanish monarchs
- Library & Gardens – Ornate ceilings and peaceful landscaping
How to get there:
- Train: 1 hour from Madrid Atocha
- Car: 50 minutes
Suggested duration: Half-day to full day.
Best day to visit: Thursday for fewer crowds, full tour access.
Alcalá de Henares – Cervantes’ birthplace & Tapas town
This university town offers literary heritage, charming streets, and some of the best tapas experiences close to Madrid.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes – Museum dedicated to the author of Don Quixote
- University of Alcalá – Renaissance architecture and historical tours
- Tapas crawl on Calle Mayor – Popular with students and locals
How to get there:
- Train: 40 minutes from Atocha or Chamartín
- Car: 35-minute drive
Suggested duration: Half-day
Best day to visit: Tuesday is great for exploring without weekend crowds
Discover the wine region: Wine tour out of Madrid
Wine lovers will find that a short ride out of Madrid leads to some of Spain’s most underrated vineyards.
Top 3 things to see/do:
- Visit boutique wineries in Navalcarnero or Arganda del Rey.
- Enjoy expert-led tastings of Tempranillo and Malvar varietals.
- Pair wines with local cheese, Iberian ham, and olive oils.
How to get there: Most tours offer car transportation from Madrid.
Suggested duration: Half-day to full day.
Best day to visit: Thursday (smaller groups, great for tastings).
Book your spot: Wine Tour Out of Madrid with Transportation
Travel Tips: How to plan your day trips from Madrid
Here’s how you can easily plan these trips:
- Start early to avoid crowds and heat
- Buy train tickets in advance if using AVE
- Use guided tours
- Avoid Mondays because many sites are closed
From medieval cities to wine country, these day trips from Madrid offer a chance to experience Spain’s diversity, without straying far from the capital.
¡Hasta luego!