Segovia Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Planning a trip to Segovia and just need the highlights? Here’s everything you need to know at a glance for one of the best easy day trips from Madrid.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Madrid | Approx. 90 km (56 miles) |
| Travel Time | 30 mins (train) | 1.5 hours (bus/car) |
| Average Cost (per person) | €50 – €110 (transport, food, entry) |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (April-June) & Fall (September-October) on Weekdays |
| Time Needed in Segovia | A full day (6-8 hours) is perfect |
How to Get to Segovia from Madrid: Train, Bus, or Car?
Getting from the bustling capital to the fairy-tale city of Segovia is surprisingly simple. Your choice of transport will depend on your priorities: speed, budget, or convenience. We’ve broken down all the options to help you plan the perfect journey for your day trip from Madrid to Segovia.
| Mode | Departure Station | Travel Time | Avg. Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Train | Madrid-Chamartín | ~30 mins | €30 – €55 | Fastest option by far | More expensive; station is 6km outside Segovia |
| Bus | Madrid-Moncloa | ~1 hr 20 mins | €16 – €20 | Cheapest; arrives centrally | Slower; can be affected by traffic |
| Car | Your location | ~1 hr 15 mins | €20+ (fuel/tolls) | Total flexibility | Parking is difficult and expensive |
| Organized Tour | Varies | Full Day | €50 – €120 | Hassle-free; includes guide | Less freedom; fixed schedule |
By High-Speed Train (The Fastest Way)
If you want to maximize your time in Segovia, the high-speed train is your best bet. The Avant/AVE trains operated by Renfe are modern, comfortable, and incredibly fast. The distance from Madrid to Segovia by train is covered in just under 30 minutes!
- Departure: Trains leave from Madrid’s Chamartín Station.
- Booking: It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance on the official Renfe website or app to secure the best prices.
- Important Note: The train arrives at Segovia-Guiomar station, which is about 6km outside the historic center. From there, you must take a short 15-minute ride on bus line #11 or #12 (cost: ~€2) or a taxi (~€10) to the city center, which drops you right at the Roman Aqueduct.
By Bus (The Budget-Friendly Way)
For travelers keeping an eye on their budget, the bus is an excellent and reliable option. It’s the most cost-effective way to get to Segovia and has one major advantage over the train: it drops you off right in the heart of the action.
- Departure: Buses, operated by the company Avanza, depart from Madrid’s Moncloa Interchange Station.
- Arrival: You’ll arrive at the central Segovia bus station, just a 5-minute walk from the iconic aqueduct. No need for a second transfer!
- Booking: You can buy tickets at the station, but booking online in advance is easy and guarantees your seat.
By Car (The Flexible Way)
Driving to Segovia gives you the ultimate freedom to set your own schedule and even stop at other points of interest along the way. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A-6 and AP-6 highways (note: the AP-6 is a toll road).
However, be warned: driving and parking within Segovia’s ancient, narrow streets is extremely difficult. We strongly advise parking in a large public garage on the outskirts, like the Parking Acueducto, and walking into the old town.
By Organized Tour (The Easiest Way)
If you prefer a completely stress-free experience, consider one of the many day tours from Madrid to Segovia. These tours handle all the logistics for you, often including a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, and sometimes even lunch. Many operators also offer combination tours, such as a day trip from Madrid to Segovia and Avila or even Toledo, allowing you to see multiple historic cities in one day.
Top 5 Things to See on Your Segovia Day Trip
Segovia is a compact city packed with monumental sights. Here are the five absolute must-see attractions you can easily cover in a one day trip from Madrid to Segovia.
-
Marvel at the Roman Aqueduct
This is the symbol of Segovia. An architectural marvel from the 1st or 2nd century, this colossal structure was built with over 20,000 granite blocks without a single drop of mortar. Its sheer scale is awe-inspiring.
- Location: Plaza del Azoguejo. You can’t miss it!
- Price: Free.
- Insider Tip: For the best photos, climb the steps next to the aqueduct at Plaza del Azoguejo for a breathtaking elevated view. Try to see it both when you arrive and again at dusk when it’s beautifully illuminated.
-
Explore the Alcázar of Segovia
Perched on a cliff, this is the fairy-tale castle that reputedly inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. It has served as a royal palace, a state prison, and a military academy throughout its long history. The interior is stunning, but the views from the outside are what dreams are made of.
- Location: The westernmost point of the old city.
- Price: General entry ~€7. Access to the Tower of Juan II is an additional ~€3.
- Insider Tip: Absolutely pay the extra fee to climb the 152 steps of the tower. The panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside are unforgettable. Book tickets online in advance to skip the lines, especially on weekends.
-
Visit the Segovia Cathedral (The Lady of Cathedrals)
Dominating the Plaza Mayor, this magnificent late-Gothic cathedral is one of the last of its kind built in Spain. Its elegant spires and soaring interior are a testament to masterful craftsmanship. Step inside to admire the intricate stained-glass windows and peaceful cloister.
- Location: Plaza Mayor.
- Price: General entry ~€4.
- Insider Tip: For a small extra fee, the guided tour of the bell tower offers another incredible perspective of the city, looking down on the Plaza Mayor and towards the Alcázar.
-
Get Lost in the Jewish Quarter (Judería)
Step back in time as you wander the enchanting, narrow cobblestone streets of Segovia’s former Jewish Quarter. This beautifully preserved neighborhood is full of character and charm. Don’t miss the former Main Synagogue, which is now the Corpus Christi Church.
- Location: Between the Cathedral and the old city walls.
- Price: Free to wander.
- Insider Tip: This is the perfect area to escape the main tourist crowds. Follow the signs for the “Ruta de la Judería” to ensure you see the most important spots.
-
Try the Local Delicacy: Cochinillo Asado
A trip to Segovia isn’t complete without experiencing its most famous culinary tradition: Cochinillo Asado (roast suckling pig). Cooked until the skin is impossibly crispy and the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, it’s a true spectacle. The pig is traditionally so tender that it’s cut with the side of a plate.
- Where to Try: Restaurante José María or Mesón de Cándido (for a classic experience).
- Price: This is a splurge, typically €20-€25 per portion.
- Insider Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for lunch at the famous restaurants. If you’re on a budget, look for restaurants offering a “menú del día” that includes it.
Sample Itinerary: The Perfect One Day in Segovia
Wondering how to fit it all in? Here is a sample schedule to help you visualize your perfect day.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Depart Madrid | Take the high-speed train from Chamartín for an early start. |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive & See the Aqueduct | Take the bus to the center. Get your first “wow” moment at the aqueduct. Grab a coffee. |
| 10:30 AM | Wander to Plaza Mayor & Cathedral | Walk up the main street, Calle Real, browsing shops. Arrive at the main square and visit the Cathedral. |
| 12:30 PM | Explore the Alcázar | Walk to the far end of the city. Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the palace and climbing the tower. |
| 2:30 PM | Lunch Like a Local | Head to a pre-booked restaurant for Cochinillo or find a cozy tapas bar in a side street. |
| 4:30 PM | Jewish Quarter & City Walls | Enjoy a post-lunch stroll through the historic Judería and walk a portion of the old city walls. |
| 6:00 PM | Final Views & Souvenirs | Walk down to the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos for the classic Alcázar photo. |
| 7:00 PM | Head back to Madrid | Take the bus/train back, filled with memories of a magical day. |
Where to Eat in Segovia
From world-famous restaurants to humble tapas bars, Segovia has something for every palate and budget. Remember to try the local specialties: Cochinillo Asado and Judiones de la Granja (a hearty white bean stew).
For a Splurge ($$$)
- Restaurante José María: Often cited as having the best cochinillo in town. An elegant dining experience.
- Mesón de Cándido: Located right at the foot of the aqueduct, this historic restaurant is famous for its tradition and atmosphere.
Mid-Range & Delicious ($$)
- Restaurante El Sitio: A modern twist on traditional Castilian food, located in the Plaza Mayor.
- La Tasquina: A beloved local spot known for its creative tapas and cozy vibe.
On a Budget ($)
- Bar El Gato: A no-frills tapas bar where you can fill up on delicious, cheap bites.
- De Bote en Bote: A popular spot for inventive tapas and a great selection of wines by the glass.
Estimated Budget Breakdown for 2025 (Per Person)
So, how much will a day trip to Segovia cost? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | €18 (Round-trip Bus) | €45 (Round-trip Train) |
| Attractions | €11 (Alcázar + Cathedral) | €14 (Alcázar + Tower + Cathedral) |
| Food | €15 (Tapas/Bocadillo) | €40 (Full Cochinillo Lunch) |
| Coffee/Snacks | €5 | €10 |
| Total | ~€49 | ~€109 |
Insider Tips for Visiting Segovia
- Wear comfortable shoes! This cannot be stressed enough. The city is hilly and paved with cobblestones. Your feet will thank you.
- Book in advance. Especially if traveling on a weekend or during peak season, book your train tickets and Alcázar entrance online to save time and money.
- Check the return bus schedule. If you take the train, know the bus times from the aqueduct back to the Segovia-Guiomar station to avoid a long wait or an expensive taxi ride.
- A popular tip found on travel forums like the Segovia day trip from Madrid Reddit threads is to walk down from the Alcázar to the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos. It’s the postcard-perfect photo spot of the castle.
- Mind the siesta. While major attractions stay open, many smaller shops and some restaurants close from roughly 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Plan your shopping accordingly.
- Bring a jacket. Due to its high altitude (1,000m), Segovia is often cooler and windier than Madrid, even on a sunny day.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Keep your bag light for a comfortable day of exploring. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ✅ Comfortable Walking Shoes
- ✅ A Portable Charger/Power Bank for your phone
- ✅ Reusable Water Bottle
- ✅ Sunscreen & Sunglasses (the Spanish sun is strong!)
- ✅ A Light Jacket or Sweater
- ✅ Your Camera
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Madrid to Segovia?
Absolutely! It’s one of the most popular and easiest day trips from Madrid. Thanks to excellent transport links, including a high-speed train that takes less than 30 minutes, you can easily travel there and back in a day with plenty of time for sightseeing.
Which is nicer, Toledo or Segovia?
This is a classic debate! It really depends on your personal preference. Segovia feels like a fairy tale, defined by its three grand monuments: the Roman Aqueduct, the Gothic Cathedral, and the Disney-like Alcázar. Toledo, the “City of Three Cultures,” is larger and denser, with a labyrinth of historic streets reflecting its Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage. If you love grand engineering and magical castles, choose Segovia. For a deep dive into religious history and art, choose Toledo.
Is there a high speed train from Madrid to Segovia?
Yes, the Avant/AVE high-speed trains run frequently from Madrid’s Chamartín Station to the Segovia-Guiomar Station. The journey is incredibly quick, taking only about 28 minutes, which makes it the fastest way to get there.
How much time do you need in Segovia, Spain?
For a day trip, 6 to 8 hours is the perfect amount of time. This gives you enough time to see the three main attractions (Aqueduct, Cathedral, and Alcázar), enjoy a leisurely lunch (perhaps with cochinillo!), and wander through the charming streets of the old town without feeling rushed.
TL;DR: Your Segovia Day Trip in a Nutshell
Still here? Great! If you’re in a rush, here’s the ultimate summary: Yes, Segovia is worth visiting! Take the 30-minute high-speed train from Madrid-Chamartín or the cheap bus from Moncloa. Once there, see the jaw-dropping Roman Aqueduct (free), the stunning Cathedral (€4), and the magical Alcázar castle (€7). For the best photo, walk to the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos. Splurge on the famous Cochinillo Asado for lunch. Wear comfy shoes. You’ll need about 6-8 hours for a perfect, unforgettable day trip. Enjoy!
