[Ultimate Bucket List] The 27 Best Things to Do in Toledo, Spain
Toledo, Spain, also known as the City of the Three Cultures, is absolutely packed with incredible sights and epic monuments to visit.
The question is:
What are the best things to do in Toledo, Spain?
Let’s find out!
The city was founded in Roman times, and was then known as Toletum. After the fall of the Roman empire, it became the capital of the Visigoths from 542 to 725 AD.
In 725, it was taken by the Arabs and remained under Arabic rule until 1085, when it was conquered by King Alfonso VI of Castile.
Due to its rich history, Toledo has influences from 3 cultures: Christians, Muslims and Jews. This makes it a very unique city, and there are plenty of magnificent monuments to discover.
In this travel guide about the best things to do in Toledo, you’ll find in the table of contents below everything that we’ll see, from the best things to do & the best free things to do to how to get there & more.
Simply click on the table to expand it, then click on any part you’d like to jump to.
Where is Toledo?
Toledo is a city in Spain, located 1 hour south west of Madrid. If you’ll be traveling around Spain, plan your trip there with these Spain travel tips.
It’s the capital of the Castilla-La Mancha region, created in 1982, which is home to the provinces of Albacete, Ciudad Real, Cuenca, Guadalajara and Toledo.
The Full List of the Best Things to Do in Toledo Spain
No time to read the full guide?
It’s ok I got you.
You’ll find below all the best things included in the guide, just copy/paste them in your notes and you’re ready to discover the city!
Best things to do in Toledo Spain:
- Catedral de Toledo
- Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
- Puente San Martín
- Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca
- Mirador del Valle
- Iglesia de los Jesuitas
- Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz
- Puerta del Sol
- Plaza Zocodover
- Puente de Alcántara
- Alcazar de Toledo
- Museo del Greco
- Cuevas de Hércules
- Taste the Local Food
- Paseo del Miradero
- Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal
- Puerta de Bisagra
- Sinagoga del Tránsito
- Iglesia de Santo Tomé
- Mirador del Azor
- Castillo de San Servando
- Termas Romanas
- Museo de Santa Cruz
- Circo Romano
- Jardines de la Vega
- Casino de Toledo
- Puerta del Cambrón
Now if you want more information about each of these places, including photos, keep reading below!
What to Do in Toledo, Spain – Visit Toledo
Toledo is an incredible city, full of history, and there is so many things to discover in the city. As most people visit during a day trip from Madrid, they always recommend the same Toledo tourist attractions: the Cathedral, the Alcazar, and the Museo del Greco.
And for a reason; they’re amazing.
But trust me, there is a whole lot more to see in the city, and you can spend several days in Toledo. If you’re planning on visiting for more than only 1 day, or if you have already visited the main sights, you’ll find in this ultimate bucket list 27 things to do in Toledo.
1- Catedral de Toledo
We’ll start the list of what to see in Toledo, Spain, with the Catedral de Toledo.
The Catedral de Toledo is the masterpiece of Gothic architecture in Spain.
It’s an absolutely huge cathedral, and it’s filled with interesting things to discover, from more than 20 chapels to a museum, including a cloister and a bell tower.
2- Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
The second item on this list is another religious monument, the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes.
It was meant to be the final resting place of the Catholic Monarchs, and it’s thus truly magnificent. It has a beautiful cloister, with a lower and an upper level, and both are open to the public.
3- Puente San Martín
Located right next to the previous spot, the Monastery San Juan de los Reyes, you’ll find the Puente San Martín.
It’s one of the 2 original access to Toledo old town, across the Tagus river. Built in the 14th century, it’s a feat of medieval architecture, and a good start to any visit to the city.
4- Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca
Right down the street from the Monastery de San Juan de los Reyes, you’ll find our 4th best places to visit in Toledo, the Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca.
It was built in the 12th century, and it’s the oldest synagogue still standing in Spain! The inside is breathtaking, with bright white & gold colors everywhere.
5- Mirador del Valle
Probably my favorite spot in the city, the Mirador del Valle.
From the Mirador, which is located outside of the city, you’ll have the best view over Toledo. It’s my favorite place in the whole city, and I highly recommend catching a sunrise or sunset there!
6- Iglesia de los Jesuitas
Looking for another spot with a view over Toledo? Then you need to visit the Iglesia de los Jesuitas.
The church itself is stunning, both outside and inside, but what really makes it one of the best things to do in Toledo, Spain, is the fact that you can climb up the twin bell towers. From up there, you’ll get a grand view over the city, with the Cathedral and the Alcazar.
7- Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz
The Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz is an old mosque, and it was part of the 10 mosques in the Moorish Toledo (from 753 to 1085).
The mosque was built in 999, and it’s been incredibly well-preserved over the years. It’s a rather small monument, but definitely worth a visit.
8- Puerta del Sol
Located right next to the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz, the Puerta del Sol is worth checking out if you’re visiting the mosque.
The Gate of the Sun, one of the 9 gates of Toledo, was built in the 14th century. It’s a massive gate in typical Mudejar style, and one of the icons of the city.
9- Plaza Zocodover
The Plaza Zocodover, or Zocodover square, is the main square in Toledo old town.
I love this square for 2 reasons: first, it’s surrounded by magnificent buildings just like the one on the picture above and second, you’ll find some nice cafés & restaurants to sit down and enjoy life like a local.
10- Puente de Alcántara
As we saw previously, there was 2 original bridges linking to the old town: the Puente de Alcántara is the second one!
This one is the most ancient of the bridges in Toledo, as it was built by the Romans when they founded the city (around 17 AD). It’s one of the eastern entries to the city, and it will take you to the Alcazar.
11- Alcazar de Toledo
On everyone’s list of what to do in Toledo, Spain, you’ll find the Alcazar de Toledo. Literally Toledo Castle, the Alcazar is the first thing you’ll see when you approach the city, with the 4 white & blue towers sticking up above the roofs.
Not like the typical medieval castle, you’ll find inside the Alcazar the Museo del Ejercito, the Army Museum.
12- Museo del Greco
I’ll admit that I’m not a big fan of museums, but Toledo has a few really nice ones that you should consider visiting if that’s something you enjoy.
The Museo del Greco is dedicated to El Greco, mannerist painter from the late 16th century. His most famous work is a painting named View of Toledo (on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC), together with one named View and Plan of Toledo that you can see in the museum.
13- Cuevas de Hércules
Let’s go underground for our 13th item on this list of things to see in Toledo, Spain.
The Cuevas de Hercules is not really a cave, but more of an underground water cistern dating from Roman times. It’s free to visit, so just swing by and admire this remnant of ancient times.
14- Taste the Local Food
While you’re exploring Toledo, you should stop to enjoy the local food; after all, Toledo was voted Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy in 2016!
Try a typical Mazapán de Toledo, a sweet pastry made of almonds, sugar and egg yolks. Or go have a drink at the local bar and ask for Carcamusas, a warm bar snack made of pork, tomatoes, peas and white wine.
15- Paseo del Miradero
Looking for more Toledo sights? Then climb up the stairs from the Puente del Alcantara to reach the Paseo del Miradero!
The Paseo del Miradero is a viewpoint in Toledo, created in 1575. It’s a large open area, where you’ll have a nice view over the surroundings.
16- Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal
Built in 1245, the Church of Santiago del Arrrabal was built on a previous mosque after the Moors. It still has the distinct horseshoe shape of a mosque, with the addition of the bell tower.
The church was originally attached to the Puerta de Bisagra, that you can still visit right nearby.
17- Puerta de Bisagra
The Puerta de Bisagra Nueva is indeed right next to the Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal. It’s a massive gate, with the coat of arms of the Emperor Charles V clearly visible on the front.
It’s been the main gate of Toledo since 1559, replacing the Puerta de Bisagra Antigua built in the 10th century.
18- Sinagoga del Tránsito
Next on our list is the Sinagoga del Tránsito, a National Monument that was recently converted into a museum, the Sephardi Museum.
The building is famous for its fine details, and insanely rich decoration inside, in stucco style.
19- Iglesia de Santo Tomé
The Iglesia de Santo Tomé is a nice church, with a beautiful bell tower; but it’s mainly known for what’s inside!
Inside of the church you’ll find the masterpiece of El Greco, the painting “El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz” or The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.
The entry costs 3€, but it’s included in the Toledo Tourist Bracelet.
20- Mirador del Azor
The Mirador del Azor is the last viewpoint on this list, and also an underrated spot.
Located right next to the Puerta del Sol, it offers a unique view with the alignment of the Puerta del Sol and the Puerta de Bisagra.
There’s another Mirador del Azor right next to the Alcazar de Toledo, but it’s a different one.
21- Castillo de San Servando
The Alcazar de Toledo is not the only castle in the city; there is also the Castillo de San Servando.
Located on a hill right above the Alcantara bridge, the castle was originally a monastery, built in the 7th century. It was then occupied by the Templars, and later became a National Monument.
22- Termas Romanas
After going underground to see the Cuevas de Hércules, we’ll go down again to visit the Termas Romanas.
You’ll find remains of ancient Roman baths, in a place that was converted into a museum where you can learn more about the Roman history of Toledo.
The entry is completely free.
23- Museo de Santa Cruz
Talking about museum, our next spot is the Museo de Santa Cruz, an hospital from the 16th century turned into a museum in the 19th century.
This place is worth a visit for the building itself, with a gorgeous facade and a nice patio inside, but also for the arts displayed inside, including paintings from El Greco.
24- Circo Romano
I guess you’ll have figured it out by now, Toledo is an old Roman city, and you can still find plenty of Roman ruins in the city.
Right outside Toledo old town, you’ll find the Circo Romano, or Roman Circus.There are only 6 Roman Circus identified in Spain, and the one of Toledo is among the 3 best preserved ones.
25- Jardines de la Vega
Located in front of the northern entrance of Toledo, next to the Puerta de Bisagra, there is a nice park named Jardines de la Vega.
It’s one of the best places for the locals, and the perfect place to relax in the city. There are several kiosks where you can buy food & drinks, such as granizado de limon (lemon slush), hot chocolate and churros!
26- Casino de Toledo
Yep, this one is a bit different from the other items on this guide, but it’s definitely on top of the list of the fun things to do in Toledo.
Especially if you’re from a country where casinos are prohibited, you’ll have loads of fun going to the Casino de Toledo and playing on some of the machines. It’s also a good place if you’re looking for food late at night, as they cook until late.
Remember to play with caution and don’t bring too much money 🙂
27- Puerta del Cambrón
And that’s it, the 27th and last spot on this list of top things to do in Toledo, Spain!
The Puerta del Cambrón is one of the city gates, located in the west side of Toledo. It’s a very unique gate, looking like a fortified castle, and you can even drive through it! I hope you’re a good driver because there’s barely any space.
–
So there you have it, your list of the 27 best things to do in Toledo Spain! It’s a complete list, with a lot of things to see, and definitely too much for only 1 day in the city. But if you’re staying for a couple of days, or longer, I hope this guide gave you some ideas of what to visit!
Free Things to Do in Toledo, Spain
A lot of these 27 things to do in Toledo require to spend money, since you’ll be visiting a lot of monuments. But don’t worry, there are still some amazing things to do in the city to visit Toledo without breaking the bank!
Here are the best free things to do in Toledo Spain:
- Puente San Martín
- Mirador del Valle
- Puerta del Sol
- Plaza Zocodover
- Puente de Alcántara
- Cuevas de Hércules
- Paseo del Miradero
- Puerta de Bisagra
- Mirador del Azor
- Castillo de San Servando
- Termas Romanas
- Circo Romano
- Jardines de la Vega
- Puerta del Cambrón
Now go enjoy all of these free things and discover Toledo without spending any more money!
Recommended Itinerary to See Toledo in 1 Day
Are you planning a day trip from Madrid to Toledo? Then you won’t have enough time to see everything included in this guide, that’s for sure!
It’s ok though, you can still have a wonderful experience in Toledo in one day.
I’ve created a free custom map that you can use to plan your 1 day itinerary in the city.
Here’s your Toledo Itinerary map:
Navigate: Click on the top left logo to open the side panel. You’ll see all of the spots in the itinerary; you can click on any to have more information
Download: To download the map, simply click on the “star” next to the title. It will automatically add the map to your Google Maps. In Google Maps, you will find it under Menu>Your Places>Maps
This itinerary will allow you to explore Toledo in the best way possible, to make the most out of your Toledo day trip. If you want more information about this itinerary, including photos and details about each place you’ll visit, click on the guide below.
How to Get to Toledo
You can either get to Toledo by car, or by train.
By car
Toledo is a perfect day trip from Madrid, and from other Spanish cities. You’ll find below the driving time from nearby cities:
From Madrid: 1h
From Segovia: 1h35
From Valencia: 3h30
It’s difficult to drive and park in the city; the best option is to find a parking outside of the city walls, then walk to the center.
When you’ll reach Toledo, head to the north east of the city, right outside of the city walls. This is where you’ll find the cheapest parking options, and the most parking spaces available. It’s also right next to the bridge.
By train
If you don’t have a car, you can get to Toledo by train from Madrid. There is a direct train that goes straight from Madrid to Toledo.
From: Madrid-Puerta de Atocha
To: Toledo
Duration: 33 minutes
Cost: 13.90€ (average price)
Book here: Train to Toledo
You can also take the trains from other cities in Spain (Barcelona, Segovia, …), just click on the link above to see all options.
From the Toledo train station, you can walk to the city center, which will take you around 20 minutes.
Where to Stay in Toledo
If you’re visiting Toledo, you have several options for where to stay. You’ll find below hotels depending on your travel style:
Budget: Albergue Juvenil Los Pascuales
Cheapest accommodation in Toledo, for around 14€ per night.
This youth hostel is only 2 minutes away from the Toledo Cathedral and the Toledo Castle. It also comes with included breakfast!
Comfy: Hotel San Juan de los Reyes
The Hotel San Juan de los Reyes is my favorite accommodation for a comfy stay in Avila, for around 75€ per night.
It’s ideally located in Toledo, a short walk from all the main sights. The beds are pretty comfy, and the included breakfast makes it a perfect choice for your stay in Avila. You’ll also enjoy free parking (which is nice in Toledo), and spacious bathroom with a hydro-massage bathtubs, perfect to relax after a long day of exploration in the city.
Luxury: Almunia de San Miguel
The best hotel in Toledo, hands down.
The Almunia de San Miguel has everything you’ll need, and even more: free parking, breakfast included, incredible rooms, and the location… The hotel is right next to the castle and the cathedral, you can’t be closer! There’s even a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
Visit Spain
Planning a trip to Toledo and Spain? You can find below several other articles about this wonderful part of the world to help you plan your trip:
Toledo Guides:
Vist the Monastery de San Juan de los Reyes
The Stunning Sinagoga Santa Maria la Blanca
A Church AND an Epic View over Toledo
Spain Guides:
How to get from Madrid to Segovia
I hope you enjoy your trip to Toledo and to Spain!
If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.
Photo credits: 10 | 11 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27
Travel Tools
Use any of our recommended links below to book your trip. You pay the same, and we earn a small fee; a great way to support us!
Pin this to Pinterest!
Enjoyed this guide? Then help a fellow traveler and pin it! They'll most definitely love you for it, 100% guarantee.
Hi Kev, great compilation job you’ve done. I am going to spend a few days in Toledo in June, could you tell me if you know of some places where I can park my motorhome (without paying if possible 🙂 ) to see the city?
Regards.
Great blog! Thank you so much!
Hi Kev, I’m looking for a high quality picture of Toledo as shown in the above post (the first image on page). It really is stunning! Any chance you could email me?
https://www.kevmrc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/the-ultimate-bucket-list-of-things-to-do-in-toledo-spain.jpg
Hello! What would you use it for?
Kev my man! Thanks so much for your reply.
I would love to have this as my wallpaper. I have quite a love for Spain, you see.
I wouldn’t be posting on web or anything remotely like that.
Greatly appreciate if you could email to me.
Warm regards,
Cian