The charming Toledo- how to spend an excellent day trip from Madrid

10.04.2023.

The incredible fantasy belongs to fortified towns and Toledo is the best Spanish example. You’ll find yourself in the living novel within one hour from Madrid. The labyrinth of streets in Toledo offers the pure magic of medieval times.

Shining as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old city is a lovely blend of cultures. Toledo is much bigger than you would guess as it has more than 80 000 inhabitants. Truly impressive, Toledo is such a pearl of history. The charming Toledo definitely deserves more than a day trip from Madrid, just like the other towns.

Just strolling around is enough as the best sites arrive on your way by themselves. That’s why I wasn’t obsessed to follow the certain guide before coming. But for your convenience, this post will lead you to the most stunning places in Toledo.

See also: One week of Andalusian adventures during the winter time

About the history

„The city of three cultures“ is a nickname of Toledo that describes its stunning heritage. It blends the cultural and religious influences of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

The Visigothic Kingdom had a crucial meaning for Toledo as its capital in the 6th century. It covered almost the entire Iberian peninsula and developed after the fall of Roman Empire.

The Muslim invasion followed in the 8th century after the short period of Visigothic rule. Mosque Cristo de la Luz is the most exquisite example of the Muslim period.

Already in 1085 Toledo took the power of Christians and became the capital of the Castilian kingdom.

Finally, Madrid overshaded the capital role of Toledo in the 16th century.

The Cathedral of Toledo

The majestic Cathedral Primada is one of the largest in Spain and is totally worth of visit. Its medieval Gothic style is what makes it so impressive. It takes roots in 1226 but was finished in 1493. Toledo’s Cathedral was originally a mosque.

With the entrance fee of 12,5€ I decided to skip wondering inside. The gorgeous artworks by Goya, El Greco, Titian, and Velazcuez make it so extraordinary.

The Cathedral Primada is one of Spain’s most fascinating examples of the Gothic style. The Bourges Cathedral served as the template considering its Gothic influence. The marvelous stained-glass windows and ribbed vaults characterize the Gothic style also here.

Mudejar style shines in the background taking multifoiled arches to another dimension.

El Transparente which resembles to a cave is the highlight of the Cathedral.

Alcazar

Alcazar offers panoramic views to the scenic images of the fortified Toledo. Not only this, it stretches on the highest hill overlooking the river magic. This imposant fortress dates back in Roman times and dominates the city.

The Roman rule takes the form of Moorish influence in the 10th century, which reflects also to the Alcazar.

Alcazar hosts the Military Museum nowadays with an amazing collection of weapons, uniforms and medals. This comprehensive aspect of Spanish history is a truly powerful testimony.

The main patio and stairs are completely fascinating.  During the 1540s the current building took shape thanks to Carlos I, when it was his royal residence.

San Juan de los Reyes Monastery

Dating to 1504, the Monastery San Juan de los Reyes represents the most enchanting building in Toledo. Dominating the Jewish quarter, it’s a wonderful example of Gothic style. The main purpose was to commemorate the political victory over the Portuguese.

It was also a royal mausoleum showing an elegant granite facade and lovely interior. The lush gardens will offer recharging moments.

Mudejar style put its sign on the ceiling on the second floor. Isabelline style defines the Monastery, which is a version of the Gothic one. The main chapel looks pretty astonished due to the decoration with the coat of arms.

A little bit of history

San Juan de la Reyna was the original name of the monastery. Its main purpose was to be the mausoleum of Catholic Monarchs. Finally, Granada got this role.

The construction was finished in 1504, but it became abandoned in 1835. The main reason was the complete damage due to Napoleon’s troops.

In 1954 Monastery was restored.

El Greco Museum

The Greek artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos (El Greco) was a famous resident of Toledo that painted this stunning museum. The late Renaissance art inspires its walls. It’s located in the Jewish quarter since 1911 near the synagogue El Transito.

The complex consists of the painter’s old house from the 16th century and a newer one with a museum. The museum celebrates his life and the way he shaped Toledo’s history.

In this building El Greco lived himself, so you can witness the wonderful furniture and sculptures. Other Spanish artists like Zurbarán and Miranda had honour to include their paintings also.

Mezquita Cristo de la Luz

Built in 999 as a mosque, this lovely building became a church in 1085. Having a square shape, Mezquita significantly preserved its original state. The interior is just impressive though pretty small. It also signs as the first place where mass happened in the city.

The bridges

The fantastic views stretch along Toledo’s bridges over the river Tajo. Their stone structure offers a charm full of fantasy.

Puente de Alcantata

Since Roman times this bridge connects the city center with the other side of the river. Leading to the Castillo de San Servando, the Alcantata bridge was once the only entry for the pilgrims.

After the damage, the reconstruction took force in the 10th century. In the 1700s the baroque triumphal arche add a new charm to the bridge.

The name itself derives from the Arabic language and means „arch“. Alcantata Bridge is an ideal spot for night photography in Toledo.

Puente de San Martin

Puente de San Martin is another picturesque bridge over the river Tajo in Toledo. Taking roots in the 14th century, Puente de San Martin folds five arches. The middle arch covers 40 m leading to stunning dimensions.

The bridge is associated with a legend about its construction. Thinking that it would collapse due to the flaw, the architect needed to re-construct the bridge.

The scenery along the bridge creates a stunning adventure for the zip-line.

Viewpoints

The picturesque nature of Toledo bursts with pretty views. Its medieval atmosphere can totally transform the time and take you back years ago. To admire Toledo even more, discover the best viewpoints.

Mirador del Valle

Mirador del Valle is the most scenic view, where you can see Toledo in all its awesomeness. The comprehensive panorama on the other side of Tagus is simply delightful.

Alcazar that takes the throne over Toledo is truly breathtaking. You can easily reach Mirador del Valle on foot and enjoy the images of windy streets.

Another story appears during the night when Mirador del Valle takes the magic colours.

The Alcazar

Taking the highest point of the city, Alcazar offers a necklace of stunning views. The river Tagus shows its marvelous shine in the touch of lovely bridges.

Alcantara bridge

You don’t have to go far to absorb the essence of Toledo. The ancient Roman bridge unveils the charm of Alzacar.

The city gates

As a fortified town, Toledo holds some authentic and amazing gates.

Puerta del Sol

Built in the Mudejar style, Puerta del Sol dates back to the 14th century. The medallion above the arch represents Ildephonsus, the city’s patron saint. You can also see sun and the moon on both side of the medallion. The stunning view of Toledo stretches below the monument.

Puerta del Sol takes place at the Calle Carretas.

Puerta de Bisagra

Puerta de Bisagra is the impressive monument that once served as the main entrance to the city. It originates in the Morish time, but the gates were re-constructed in the 16th century.

The name itself derives from the Arabic word Bab-Shagra which means „the doors that lead to the field“.

Toledo’s coat of arms decorates the gate around the beautiful towers. The statue of Miguel Cervantes takes place at the courtyard nearby.

The famous delicacy- marzipan

The most famous local delicacy in Toledo is marzipan or mazapán. Though having an Arabic origin, this Spanish town adopted marzipan as its own.

It’s an almond pastry and Toledo has its own version at the cathedral.

Exploring the surroundings- Guanamur

Toledo definitely deserves more than a day trip from Madrid, but I was blessed to discover even more. Visiting a friend in a village near Toledo- Guanamur- gave me a new perspective of the city.

Guanamur castle is very pretty and well-preserved considering that it dates back to the 15th century.

We couldn’t find the entrance but it’s open only on certain days upon reservation.

Italian style defines this lovely fortress. After being abandonded in the 18th century, the restoration took place in 1887.

Final thoughts

The sweetness of Toledo fills its medieval charm. It’s not only an excellent day trip from Madrid, but a great place to admire the night views.

As it’s perched on the hill, Toledo can be much colder than the surrounding places. Covering the blend of cultures, Toledo will let you lost so pleasantly.

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