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Toledo: Must-See Attractions & Activities

Madrid To Toledo ToursThings to do in Toledo

Toledo is a beautiful medieval city in central Spain, just a short train ride from Madrid. Nicknamed "the city of three cultures," Toledo has a history influenced by Christians, Muslims, and Jews. It's such a historic city, in fact, the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! 

Things to do in Toledo, Spain

Couple takes photos at the Mirador del Valle viewpoint

Take photos at the Mirador del Valle viewpoint

Channel your inner travel influencer at Mirador del Valle! This viewpoint across the Tagus River offers a panoramic postcard view you won't forget. The entire city of Toledo lies at your feet, with the Alcázar fortress and Toledo Cathedral claiming center stage. It's worth the hike to see it!

Visitors walk across the Toledo Bridge

Walk across the Toledo Bridge

Stroll across the San Martin Bridge! This medieval masterpiece, built in the late 14th century, offers stunning views of the Tagus River flowing below. Snap a pic with the imposing Puerta de Bisagra gate as your backdrop.

Visitors walking through Toledo's Old Town

Visit Toledo’s Old Town

Wander narrow, medieval streets lined with ancient buildings. Don’t worry - everything here is walkable! Start your adventure at the Plaza de Zocodover, the lively main square and walk through Toledo’s beautiful old town.

Visitor seeing Spanish Art at the Greco Museum

See Spanish art at the Greco Museum

Prepare to be blown away by El Greco's masterpieces, like the "View and Plan of Toledo" and the "The Tears of Saint Peter." But that's not all! You'll also find works by other famous Spanish artists, like Velázquez (famous for "Las Meninas") and Zurbarán (known for "Saint Francis in Meditation").

Festivals in Toledo

Corpus Christi, festival in Toledo

Corpus Christi (May/June)

Witness the grandest celebration in Toledo's religious calendar. The city transforms with vibrant decorations, and a procession of giant puppets accompanying the religious figures. Festivities begin weeks in advance!

Holy Week (Semana Santa) procession in Toledo

Holy Week (Semana Santa) (March/April)

Candlelit processions wind through the city at night, with colorful costumes and religious imagery. People are often dressed in long hooded robes symbolizing mourners, or biblical characters such as angels, disciples and they carry spears and other props associated with Christ.

Virgen del Sagrario in Toledo

Virgen del Sagrario (August 15)

Join the celebration of Toledo's patron saint, the Virgin of the Sacristy. Witness offerings made to her statue and partake in the tradition of sipping holy water, which is believed to be blessed. 

Luz Toledo

Luz Toledo (September)

Luz Toledo is a light and sound festival held every September in Castile-La Mancha. The Toledo Cathedral, Rojas Theatre, and Paseo del Mirador are lit up! The light projections are accompanied by music and tell stories from Toledo’s history! 

Suggested Toledo Itinerary- Toledo in 1 day

If you want to see Toledo in a day we recommend taking a guided tour of Toledo! Bilingual guided tours allow you to see all the main highlights in Toledo in 1 day without having to worry about transport.

  • 8 am: Depart from Madrid on a comfortable air-conditioned coach.
  • 9 am: Arrive in Toledo and begin your bilingual guided tour.
  • 9:30 am: Walk through the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town.
  • 10:30 am- 2:30 pm: Choose which attractions you want to visit in Toledo!
  • 3:30 pm: Enjoy the breathtaking views from the Mirador del Valle viewpoint and Toledo Bridge. 
  • 4 pm: Take the little tourist train around Toledo from Plaza de Zocodover, if time permits, for a fun and scenic ride.
  • 5 pm: Board the coach for your return trip to Madrid.
  • 6 pm: Arrive back in Madrid, ending your memorable day in Toledo.

Suggested Toledo Itinerary- 2 days in Toledo 

Alcazar fortress

  Day 1

  • Arrive in Toledo by train (30 mins) and fuel up with a local breakfast of toast and churros at Cafe Bar Qantara near the station.
  • Cross the historic Toledo bridge and explore the 10th-century Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz!
  • Climb up the Alcazar fortress for panoramic city views.
  • Take a break at the Manchego Cheese Museum and sample local cheeses.
  • Visit the Toledo Cathedral.
Santo Tome Church

 Day 2

  • See the work of El Greco at Santo Tome Church, including his masterpiece "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz."
  • Delve deeper into El Greco's world at the Museo del Greco, housed in a traditional 16th-century home.
  • Enjoy a delicious tapas lunch at El Botero.
  • Go for a stroll along the Puente San Martín pedestrian bridge.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Entre Dos Fuegos, a restaurant housed in the former home of legendary guitarist Paco de Lucia (reservations recommended).

Is Toledo worth visiting?

Visitors in Toledo



Book your Madrid to Toledo day trip!

From Madrid: Toledo Half-Day Tour
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5 hr.
Guided tour
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From Madrid: Toledo Full-Day Tour
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8 hr.
Guided tour
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From Madrid: Toledo and Segovia Full-Day Tour
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11 hr. - 12 hr.
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From Madrid: Toledo, Segovia & Ávila Full-Day Tour
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11 hr.
Guided tour
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Toledo Guided Tour with Optional Tourist Bracelet
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1 hr. 30 min.
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Visitor tips

  • Toledo's major sites, like the Cathedral and El Greco Museum, can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider purchasing tickets in advance!
  • Toledo's historic center is best explored on foot. Pack comfortable shoes for all-day walking on cobblestone streets.
  • To avoid getting tanned in the summer, make sure to carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. 
  • Basic Spanish phrases will go a long way, especially at smaller shops and restaurants. Phrases such as ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?) and ¿Dónde está el baño? (Where is the bathroom?) are helpful to memorize!
  • Sample Manchego cheese, indulge in tapas for lunch, and try traditional marzipan sweets (mazapan).
  • When visiting churches, mosques, and synagogues, cover your shoulders and knees 
  • Don't miss opportunities to visit Mirador del Valle or Toledo Bridge for panoramic views and postcard perfect photos.

Frequently asked questions about things to do in Toledo

How much time do I need in Toledo?

You can experience all the main highlights in Toledo in a single-day trip! 

Is it possible to visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid?

Yes! We recommend visiting Toledo as an escape from the bustle of Madrid. Toledo is just an hour away from Madrid.

Are there guided tours available in Toledo?

Yes! Guided tours are available and recommended to fully appreciate Toledo's history. They include visits to key landmarks such as the Toledo Cathedral,  St Tomé Church and more! 

What is the best time of year to visit Toledo?

The best time to visit is during Spring (March, April, May) and Fall (September, October). These months offer mild temperatures for exploring outdoors, and fewer crowds. Avoid August when many businesses may close for holidays.

Can you climb the tower of Toledo Cathedral?

Yes, you can! Climb the bell tower of Toledo Cathedral, known as the Campanario, to see beautiful panoramic views of the city.

Can you walk across the Toledo Bridge?

Yes you can! It's extremely safe and allows you to see the Tagus River and the city skyline.

Can I visit Toledo with children?

Absolutely! Toledo has stunning architecture, the Toledo Cathedral, a tourist train, and the Toledo bridge - perfect for a day trip with kids. 

Is Toledo stroller/wheelchair friendly?

The historic center in Toledo has narrow, cobbled streets, which can be bumpy for strollers and wheelchairs. However, many main streets are manageable and have ramps.