Visit Avila & Segovia in One Day from Madrid
If you have come to visit Madrid and you have some free days and you don’t know what to do, we recommend you to visit Avila and Segovia in one day from Madrid, as both cities are less than 120 km (75 miles) from the capital, is a good choice for make tourism on the outskirts of Madrid.
Avila and Segovia are two cities that are worth visiting, as they have a very important history that is worth knowing. From its monuments to its streets where different civilizations have passed through the centuries.
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INDEX
1. Avila
Located in the Castile and León region of Spain, Avila is a beautiful medieval walled city that is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1985.
How to get there
The easiest way to visit Avila is by taking a high-speed train from Madrid’s Atocha or Principe Pio station to Ávila station, which takes about an hour and 45 minutes and costs around €20-€25 a round-trip ticket. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Madrid’s Moncloa station or Estación Sur, which takes about 2 hours and costs around 10€-15€ one way.
Main Tourist Attractions:
1. Avila’s Ancient City Walls
Photo: City Wall of Avila from outside
Description: Avila is renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls, dating back to the 11th century. These imposing fortifications stretch over 2.5 kilometers and feature 88 watchtowers and nine gates, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Price: 8€ (General Admission)
5€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule:
From March 21 to June 30 and September 1 to October 21: 10 AM to 8 PM
From July 1 to August 31: 10 AM to 3 PM and 5 PM to 11 PM
Winter Opening Hours until March 21: From 10 AM to 6 PM // Mondays Closed
*Last access 45 minutes before closing time.
Book your tickets here: Online Tickets
2. Avila Cathedral
Photo: Avila Cathedral from Cathedral Square
Description: This stunning Gothic cathedral, integrated into the city walls, is a testament to Avila’s architectural prowess. Constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries, the cathedral boasts a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements, with intricate stained glass windows and a grand altarpiece.
Price: 8€ (General Admission)
6.5€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule: Monday to Friday: 10 AM to 8 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
Saturdays: 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Sundays: 12:30 PM to 7:30 PM
*Last access 30 minutes before closing time.
Book your tickets here: Online Tickets
3. Basilica of San Vicente
Photo: Basilica of San Vicente from top of city Wall of Avila
Description: This Romanesque basilica, built between the 12th and 14th centuries, is one of Avila’s most significant religious sites. The basilica features an impressive façade, beautiful frescoes, and the tomb of the martyrs Vicente, Sabina, and Cristeta.
Price: 3€ (General Admission)
2.2€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule:
From April 1 to October 31: Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Tuesday from 10 AM to 1:30 PM // 3 PM to 6:30 PM
Sunday from 4 PM to 6 PM
Winter Opening Hours From November 1 to March 31: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 1:30 PM // 4 PM to 6:30 PM
Sunday from 4 PM to 6 PM
Book your tickets here: More Info + No Online Tickets
2. Segovia
Just a short 55-minute drive from Avila, Segovia is another must-visit destination in the Castile and Leon region. This charming city is known for its iconic Roman aqueduct, stunning Alcazar castle, and picturesque old town filled with impressive monuments.
How to get there
One way to visit Segovia,is that you can take a train from Avila, but the trip takes at least two hours and makes a stop in Valladolid, so we do not recommend this option. On the other hand, you can take a bus from the bus station of Avila to Segovia, which takes less than an hour and costs between 5€ and 6€.
Main Tourist Attractions:
1. Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct
Photo: Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct from the aqueduct viewpoint
Description: Segovia’s iconic Roman Aqueduct, constructed in the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Spain. Stretching over 800 meters, this engineering marvel has 167 arches and towers high above the city, providing a spectacular backdrop for photos.
Price: Free
Schedule: Open 24/7
Book your tickets here: No Links
2. Alcazar of Segovia
Photo: Alcazar of Segovia from La Pradera de San Marcos viewpoint
Description: This fairy-tale castle, perched on a rocky hilltop, offers panoramic views of Segovia and its surroundings. Built in the 12th century, the Alcazar has served as a royal palace, military academy, and prison. Explore its grand halls, ornate chambers, and climb the tower for a bird’s-eye view.
Price: 9€ (General Admission)
7€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule:
From April 1 to October 31: 10 AM to 8 PM
Winter Opening Hours From November 1 to March 31: 10 AM to 6 PM
*The rooms must be vacated 10 minutes before closing time.
Book your tickets here: Online Tickets
3. Segovia Cathedral
Photo: Segovia Cathedral from Mirador del ultimo Pino
Description: Known as the “Lady of Cathedrals,” Segovia Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece of the late Gothic style. Constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries, the cathedral features stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and a richly decorated cloister.
Price: From 7€ (General Admission)
4€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
Sunday: 12:45 PM to 6:30 PM
Book your tickets here: Online Tickets
4. Church of Vera Cruz
Photo: Church of Vera Cruz from Vera Cruz viewpoint
Description: This unique Romanesque church, built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century, is situated on the outskirts of Segovia. Its distinctive circular design and serene location make it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.
Price: 3€ (General Admission)
2€ (Reduced Admission)
Schedule:
From April 1 to October 31: Wednesdays to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 4 PM to 6:30PM
Winter Opening Hours From November 1 to March 31: Wednesdays to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 4 PM to 6PM
Mondays and Tuesdays closed
Book your tickets here: More Info + No Online Tickets