The 7 things to do in Toledo

Visit Toledo: what are the best things to do and see in this locality of the center of Spain located 70 km southwest of Madrid?

Toledo was the capital of Spain until 1563. Near Madrid , it is known as the city of the three cultures or the “West Jerusalem” for having seen living in Jewish, Christian and Muslim peace for centuries.

Toledo therefore enjoys very diverse influences that each left a singular mark on this commune. Visiting Toledo is immersed in an unprecedented historical and cultural richness concentrated in a reduced space.

What to do in Toledo? You only have the embarrassment of choice! Here are some suggestions for a first visit to the capital of the Castilla-La Mancha region.

1. Passage obligated by the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo

The Cathedral of St. Mary of Toledo is a Gothic-style building whose construction began in 1226 to end in the 15th century. It contains magnificent masterpieces including paintings by Goya, Caravaggio, Velázquez and Greco. The Gothic facade of this symbol of the power of Catholic Spain is to be seen absolutely.

2. The Alcázar of Toledo, witness of history

The Alcázar is an imposing Arab fortress converted into a residence at the time of Emperor Charles V. It is on the highest hill of the city it dominates. The Alcázar is a place full of history, especially for witnessing many military clashes over the centuries, from the Middle Ages to the Spanish Civil War. Today we find the Army Museum and the library of Castilla-La Mancha.

3. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

This beautiful monument was built in memory of the Battle of Toro of 1476 and in honour of Prince John by the Catholic Kings at the time of the reign of Isabelle Ière de Castile. It was also intended to become a royal mausoleum. This is a sumptuous example of the so-called Isabélin Gothic style. Its two-level square cloister is absolutely magnificent and not to be missed under any pretext.

4. Discover the Jewish legacy of Toledo

The city of Toledo has one of the most preserved Jewish quarters in the country. The Sefarade Museum will allow you to understand all the wealth of Jewish civilization. It is located within the El Tránsito Monument, one of the two synagogues in the city. Santa María la Blanca, the second, is nearby. Built in the 12th century, it was transformed into a church in the 15th century. A beautiful example of mudéjar style.

5. The Church of Santo Tomé contains a beautiful secret

An indispensable visit would be to admire one of the major works of the Greek, the Enterrement of the Count of Orgaz, in the purest maneuverist style. This museum monument was erected in the 12th century and has a beautiful bell tower.

6. See also in Toledo

Visit Toledo are also these few attractions we offer to complete your tour of the city:

• The Mosque Cristo de la Luz, a beautiful example of Islamic art
• Zocodover Square and Mercado de San Agustín
• The Convent of San Clemente
• Le Mirador del Valle
• The Gate of Bisagra
• The Maison-Musée du Greco

7. Things to do in the vicinity of Toledo

Would you like to discover the surroundings of the city? You will find in this list that to do near Toledo:

• Aranjuez and his royal palace
• The castle of Guadamur
• Cabañeros National Park for nature lovers
• Consuegra's windmills, Don Quichotte's adventure theater!
• Madrid, 30 minutes by train, several departures per day

How do I go to Toledo?

Toledo usually visits since Madrid In one day, but as you can see Toledo deserves to spend a little more than one day. You can go by train from the Atocha train station from which a train leaves every hour, with a reasonable rate (between 10 and 15€ per day). To find cheap flights to Madrid, you can search our partner's website Skyscanner .

Where to stay in Toledo?

You will have no trouble finding accommodation in Toledo, the city being not large and enjoying several neighbourhoods Where to drop his suitcases. However, the old centre should be prayed for more authenticity. You can find a cheap hotel in Toledo by looking for this Compare hotels .