How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Madrid to Segovia
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If you’re visiting Madrid and wondering whether a day trip to Segovia is worth it, the answer is a big yes. Segovia feels like a storybook town come to life! Think cobblestone streets, ancient Roman architecture, and a castle that inspired Walt Disney himself. And the best part? It’s less than an hour from Madrid, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips in Spain.
I first visited Segovia as part of a combined Ávila and Segovia day tour, and it quickly became one of my favorite stops in all of Spain. Between the fairytale-like Alcázar of Segovia, the impressive Roman aqueduct, and the charming old town, it’s a destination that perfectly blends history, architecture, and charm. Whether you decide to book a tour or plan your own adventure, a day in Segovia is something you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to get to Segovia from Madrid, what to see and do once you’re there, and a few insider tips to help you make the most of your visit. You’ll also find options for booking your train or bus tickets, plus my favorite tours and hotel picks if you decide to linger a little longer.
How Far Is Segovia from Madrid?
Segovia is about 90 kilometers (roughly 55 miles) northwest of Madrid, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can take from the city. Whether you prefer the speed of the train, the savings of the bus, or the flexibility of driving, there’s an option that fits every kind of traveler.
By Train (Fastest Option)
The high-speed AVANT train is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Segovia. Trains depart from Madrid Chamartín Station and arrive at Segovia-Guiomar Station in just 28 minutes. From there, it’s about a 15-minute taxi or local bus ride into the old town.
I recommend booking your train tickets through Omio or Rail Europe, as they show real-time schedules, compare prices, and let you reserve in advance with just a few clicks. Tickets usually cost between $15–$35 each way, depending on the time of day and how early you book.
If you can, aim for a morning train around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m. to arrive before most tour groups and enjoy Segovia’s quiet streets at their best.
By Bus (Most Budget-Friendly)
If you’d rather save a few euros and don’t mind a slower pace, the bus from Madrid to Segovia is a great choice. The trip takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and offers a comfortable, scenic ride through the countryside. Buses leave from Moncloa Station and drop you off near Segovia’s city center, so you’ll arrive close to the main attractions.
You can easily check timetables and purchase your bus tickets through Omio as well. I recommend this route if you’re traveling on a budget or want to enjoy the scenic journey without worrying about parking. Bus tickets start as low as $10 each way!
By Car (Most Flexible)
If you love road trips, renting a car is a fun way to see more of central Spain. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and you’ll pass through rolling hills and small villages along the way. Parking near the old town can be tricky, so plan to leave your car at one of the public lots just outside the city walls.
If you’re continuing your Spain itinerary beyond Segovia, driving gives you the flexibility to visit nearby spots like La Granja de San Ildefonso or Ávila on the same day.
Group Tour (Hassle-Free)
If you’d rather skip the logistics altogether, you can join a guided day tour from Madrid that includes round-trip transportation. I’ve done the Ávila and Segovia full-day tour myself, and it’s an excellent option for travelers who want everything handled for them. You can browse similar options through GetYourGuide or Viator to find one that fits your schedule and budget.
One-Day Itinerary for Segovia: How to Spend a Magical Day
With its storybook castle, ancient Roman aqueduct, and cobblestone streets, Segovia packs centuries of history into a single, walkable day. Below is my suggested itinerary for making the most of your visit, no matter how you arrive.
Morning: Arrive Early & Start with the Alcázar
Your first stop should be the Alcázar of Segovia, one of Spain’s most iconic castles, and the very place that inspired Walt Disney’s castle design in Snow White.
I recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour in advance to avoid wasting time waiting in line, especially during peak season. If you’re visiting Segovia on your own, it’s best to arrive in the morning to avoid the guided tour rush.
Inside, you’ll find lavish rooms with Mudejar ceilings, royal armor, and winding stone staircases that lead to panoramic views from the Tower of John II. If you’re up for it, climb the tower! You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket, and it’s a bit of a workout (especially if it’s hot), but the view over the city rooftops is 100% worth it.
This was my favorite moment of the entire day. The views, the architecture, the history, the fairytale vibes - I still think about it from time to time.
Midday: Explore the Cathedral & Plaza Mayor
After the Alcázar, make your way through the old town toward Segovia Cathedral, known as the “Lady of Cathedrals” for its grand Gothic design and intricate spires. It’s one of the last Gothic cathedrals built in Spain and stands tall over Plaza Mayor, the city’s main square.
If you have time and energy, go inside the Cathedral to admire the stained glass and choir stalls. I also recommend grabbing a light snack or coffee in Plaza Mayor and doing some people-watching before continuing your day.
Lunch Break: Taste the Flavors of Segovia
For lunch, Segovia is famous for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), a specialty that’s traditionally served with crisp skin and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. You’ll find plenty of restaurants offering this dish, but two popular spots include:
Mesón de Cándido – A legendary spot with views of the aqueduct. This family-owned restaurant is known for some of the best suckling pig in Spain.
Restaurante José María – Another fantastic option for traditional Segovian dishes on the opposite side of town.
Not into pork? No worries! Most menus have plenty of local tapas, grilled meats, and hearty stews.
Afternoon: Visit the Roman Aqueduct
You’ll finish your day at Segovia’s most famous landmark, the Roman Aqueduct. This structure was built nearly 2,000 years ago without a single drop of mortar. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Spain and will absolutely stop you in your tracks.
Be sure to climb the stairs to the viewpoint at the top for an incredible photo op. The panoramic views show just how massive and intricate this engineering marvel really is. You can also book a short walking tour of the old town and aqueduct if you want more context and fun historical tidbits.
My mom and I climbed to the top (lots of stairs, again!), but it was totally worth it. We even rewarded ourselves with gelato afterward!
Where to Stay in Segovia (If You Choose to Overnight)
If you decide to extend your stay and spend the night in Segovia instead of returning immediately to Madrid, you’ll be rewarded with golden‑hour light, quieter streets after the day‑trip crowds leave, and the chance to see the city at a more relaxed pace. Here are two excellent hotel picks to consider.
Áurea Convento Capuchinos by Eurostars: This hotel is the perfect blend of historic and modern. The exterior is made of stone, while the inside has been updated with contemporary touches. Nightly rates start at $150.
Hotel Real Segovia by Recordis Hotels: Perfectly situated between the aqueduct and the Alcázar, this stylish hotel is the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. They even have a rooftop bar and restaurant. Rates start at $80 per night.
Hotel Cetina Palacio Ayala Berganza: If you’re looking for somewhere truly unique to stay that won’t break the bank, this hotel is for you. Housed in a 15th-century palace, you’ll find this luxurious yet rustic slice of heaven. Rates start at $90 per night - you can’t beat that!
If you decide to stay the night in Segovia, one really unique activity that you can do to make your trip even more memorable is to take a hot air balloon ride in the morning the following day. This is something I really wish we had done, but at the time, I didn’t know it was offered. We ended our trip in Salamanca, and on the train ride back to Madrid, we saw colorful hot air balloons floating in the sky over Segovia, and it was beautiful!
Hot air balloon rides over Segovia begin at 7:30am and last for three hours. You’ll meet your guide in Segovia’s city center before driving just out of town for the safety briefing. You’ll be in the air for about one full hour, with opportunities to see both the Alcázar and the cathedral from the sky. Then, end your tour with a small picnic and a champagne toast. I can’t think of a better way to start your day in Segovia!
If You Have More Time: Explore Beyond Segovia
If you have an extra day in your Spain itinerary, I highly recommend exploring more of Castilla y León. Segovia pairs perfectly with a visit to Ávila, a completely walled medieval city that feels frozen in time. It’s only about an hour away, making it easy to combine both destinations in one day or as back-to-back day trips from Madrid.
I visited Ávila on a guided Segovia & Ávila day tour, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. The massive stone walls surrounding the city are some of the best-preserved in all of Europe, and walking along the ramparts gives you a whole new perspective. Inside the walls, you’ll find quaint shops, Gothic churches, and a calm, old-world atmosphere that feels very different from Segovia’s lively plazas.
If you’d rather travel independently, you can easily reach Ávila by bus or train. You’ll need to change trains at least once, as there’s no direct route, so it’s easiest to tack this on if you have a car or by deciding to do a combination day tour of both towns from Madrid.
If you’ve already seen Ávila and want something even more off-the-beaten-path, consider:
La Granja de San Ildefonso: Just 20 minutes from Segovia, this royal palace and garden complex is often called “Spain’s Versailles.” The ornate fountains and manicured hedges are stunning, especially in spring and summer.
Pedraza: A tiny walled village less than an hour away, known for its quiet charm and cobbled streets lined with artisan shops and local eateries. It’s the perfect stop if you want to escape the crowds completely.
Whether you visit Segovia on a guided tour or plan your own day trip by train, one thing’s for sure: this fairytale city is worth every minute of your itinerary! Between its towering Roman aqueduct, the fairytale-like Alcázar, and the relaxed energy of its plazas, Segovia feels like stepping into another era.
If you're still shaping your time in Spain, you might also enjoy my 5-day Madrid itinerary, which helps you make the most of the capital without feeling rushed. And for something a little different, my stay at Hacienda Zorita near Salamanca is another experience I still think about. It is one of the most unique hotels I have ever stayed in, and it pairs perfectly with a Segovia day trip if you want to venture a bit deeper into the region.
Whether you are in Spain for a few days or a few weeks, Segovia is a destination that fits seamlessly into almost any route. It is simple, memorable, and absolutely worth it.
Happy travels!
-Tess
Looking for more information about Spain? Check out these articles!
Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!