Madrid to Segovia Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Madrid, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to Segovia. Segovia is a charming town located approximately 30 minutes away from Madrid by train. Visiting this beautiful small town was one of the highlights of my trip to Spain, because of its stunning Roman aqueduct, fairytale-like Alcázar castle, and delicious local cuisine.

In this blog, I will discuss what you need to know if you’re considering a visit to this charming small town while you’re in Spain. If you’d like a digital itinerary on the go, be sure to check out my free digital travel plan.

WHY A DAY TRIP TO SEGOVIA??

Segovia is located 90 kilometers northwest of Spain. Because of the popularity and impressive nature Segovia, it has gained recognition on UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to that achievement, here are other reasons to consider visiting Segovia:

Picturesque Nature

A day trip to Segovia feels like stepping into fairytale storybook. With cobblestone streets, historic buildings, the view of the castle on the hill, and breathtaking views of the landscape, you’ll notice the charm of this small town within minutes of being there. I enjoyed walking throughout the day, rather than taking taxis or hopping on the bus, because it gave me several opportunities to admire beautiful areas and hidden gems.

Food

Segovia is know for its popular Cochinillo Asado (Suckling Pig) dish. It’s a cultural experience that shows the region’s culinary traditions, and it’s a must-try for food enthusiasts!

History

As you would expect from a town with stunning architectural landmarks like the Roman Aqueduct and the Alcázar castle, Segovia is deeply involved in history. These historical sites give you a look into the city’s past, from Roman times through the medieval period, and into the Renaissance.

Smaller Crowds

With Segovia being a small town, the energy is different from what you might experience in Madrid. Rather than busy and sometimes loud streets, Segovia gives off a more calm and peaceful nature. You might come across a crowd at popular sites like the Aqueduct or the Alcázar castle, but for the most part, it’s much less crowded than Madrid, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable visit.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SEGOVIA

Weather

The weather in Segovia, is similar to the weather in Madrid. Therefore, the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June to August) is perfect for those who don’t mind extremely warm temperatures, and love outdoor activities. On the other hand, winter (December to March) offers a quieter experience with cooler temperatures.

Transportation

With Segovia being a small town, most of the city is walkable. If you’re visiting, I’d recommend planning to walk throughout the day if you’re able to. This allows you to have a more enjoyable experience, because you’ll be able to venture into various corners of Segovia, where you’ll discover a lot of beauty! Also, most of the landmarks are relatively close to each other, so walking is convenient.

If you prefer not to explore on foot, local transportation is available. Buses run throughout the day, with stops conveniently located near key tourist attractions.

Safety

Segovia is generally safe for travelers. Throughout my visit, at no point did I feel unsafe in the city. However, remember to exercise common-sense precautions to ensure a trouble-free visit. This includes safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. One common oversight to avoid is leaving your cell phones unattended on restaurant tables or in open pockets. A solution that I’d recommend is wearing a zipped fanny pack across your chest during your visit. 

GOING FROM MADRID TO SEGOVIA

One of the best things about a Madrid to Segovia day trip is the convenience when it comes to getting there. You have two great travel options: train and bus, and they each have their benefits, so choose the one that best fits your preferences and schedule.

Taking the Train From Madrid to Segovia

The fastest way to get to Segovia is by the high speed train (the AVE). By train, Segovia is approximately 27 minutes away from Madrid. Prices for a ticket between both cities start from as low as $6 USD. You can purchase your ticket on the day of your trip, but you will likely pay less if you purchase tickets in advance. Prices can vary, and if book in advance, you can secure better rates. Tickets can be bought online, at the station, or through various travel apps. The train travels directly to Segovia, and operates quite frequently throughout the day. You can find more information on taking the train to Segovia here.

Tip: When you arrive at Segovia-Guiomar station, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to the city center. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes and runs frequently, making it easy to reach Segovia’s main attractions such as the Aqueduct, Cathedral, and Alcázar.

Taking the Bus From Madrid to Segovia

Taking a bus from Madrid to Segovia is also a cost-effective option, with tickets (round trip) starting at $10 USD. One of the perks of taking a bus is that you get to enjoy scenic views of the Spanish countryside. Buses depart from Madrid’s Moncloa bus station and the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Most companies (if not all) use modern buses, which have comfortable seating, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. If you don’t mind a slightly longer journey, this is also a great way to get to Segovia.

The bus station in Segovia is centrally located and within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions. This makes it convenient to start your exploration of Segovia right after you arrive.

ORGANIZED DAY TRIPS/TOURS FOR SEGOVIA

There are various platforms where you can find guided tours for your day trip to Segovia. Booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide offer various options that will ensure that you get the most of your trip. Here are some options to consider:

• Madrid: Segovia and Toledo Tour, Alcazar, and Cathedral
• Segovia: Ruta Patrimonio + Alcázar + Cathedral
• Madrid: Segovia & Avila Day Trip with Tickets to Monuments
• From Madrid: Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer

WHAT TO SEE IN SEGOVIA

If you prefer to explore this charming town independently, here are key sightings and landmarks to look out for while you’re in Segovia.

Iglesia De San Millan

Iglesia de San Millán in Segovia is a remarkable example of architecture dating back to the 12th century. It has a Romanesque appearance, and you’ll notice its stone carvings, triple-arched entrance and a bell tower. Its beautifully preserved structure makes it a compelling site to visit in Segovia.

Alcazar Castle

Alcázar de Segovia is a medieval fortress turned royal castle located in the heart the city. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been home to notable historical figures. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as slots to visit fill up quickly! There is a trail you can take from the front of the Alcázar that leads down to the park below. From here, you can get a full view of the castle. I’d highly recommend this spot for taking photos away from other crowded areas.

Catedral De Segovia

This was one of the most unique Cathedral exteriors that I have ever seen. It’s Segovia’s main Cathedral and it’s located in the main square of the city. You can pay to go in to see the interior, or you can simply walk around the property and admire its architecture.

The Aqueduct

Simply describing The Aqueduct doesn’t capture its fascinating appearance. Its remarkable construction earned it a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. As you arrive in Segovia, you’ll spot it from a distance, and the closer you get, the more impressive it becomes. Other than simply walking around it, for an even better view you can climb the stairs leading to the old part of the city.

DETAILED ITINERARY – MADRID TO SEGOVIA DAY TRIP

Though Segovia may seem small, there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s how you can get the most out of your day:

Morning Departure

I suggest leaving Madrid around 9am or earlier. I personally grabbed breakfast on the go, and trust me, the AVE trains are so comfortable that having a freshly baked croissant while enjoying the view was pure bliss.

Take The Bus To The City Centre

When you arrive at Segovia-Guiomar station, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to the city center. If you opt for a bus ride, take route 12 and come off the bus at the Centro stop. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes and runs frequently, making it easy to reach Segovia’s main attractions such as the Aqueduct, Cathedral, and Alcázar.

Start At Iglesia De San Millan

When you get off the bus at Centro, take a short 4 minute walk to Iglesia de San Millan, which is the first major landmark that you will see. It’s a church with a spectacular interior, so it’s worth going in to take a look.

Head Over To Alcázar De Segovia

From Iglesia de San Millan, you can head up to the stunning castle – Alcázar de Segovia. It’s a 20 minute walk if you don’t mind getting your steps in. However, it’s a 6 minute drive if you prefer to take a taxi.

Walk To Catedral De Segovia

From Alcázar de Segovia, walk towards the heart of the old town to visit the impressive Catedral de Segovia. This is a shorter 12 minute walk, and it’s a 9 minute drive if you choose to take a taxi.

Grand Finale At The Aqueduct

We saved the best for last! After admiring the beauty of the Cathedral, take a short 9 minute walk to the Aqueduct – the gem of Segovia.

Dinner

After a full day of exploring, return to the main square for dinner. If you’re usually curious about unique local cuisines when you travel, I would recommend that you try the town’s famous suckling pig. Unfortunately I do not remember the specific restaurant that I went to, however most of the restaurants there have it on their menu.

FINAL THOUGHTS

For me, the perfect way to end my trip to Spain was by taking on this Madrid to Segovia day trip. Given the nature of this old town, it felt like a calmer and more quiet day compared to my days in Madrid. I got to wind down and wrap up my trip to Spain, while still immersing myself in rich history and a breathtaking environment. Segovia gave me the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration, making it an unforgettable finale to my Spanish adventure.

¡Hasta la próxima vez!