Just 70 kilometers from Madrid, Toledo, one of the most beautiful places to see in Spain, suddenly reveals itself, perched on an imposing boulder that proudly dominates the surrounding plain. Once the capital of the Spanish kingdom, the city majestically overlooks the waters of the Tagus from its hilltop. The Romans erected a fortress on the site of today's Alcazar, and in the 6th century, the Visigoths made it their capital. Inside, the city is a veritable labyrinth, with narrow streets that all look alike. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo is a precious enclave of Spanish history, having been home to Arab, Jewish and Christian cultures for centuries, in an atmosphere of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. A must-see getaway in Spain, one of our top destinations for vacations in 2024.
1. Primada Cathedral, a must-see in Toledo
Here's a little Spanish jewel that you really shouldn't miss if you're passing through Toledo. The majesty of the cathedral in the capital of Castilla-La Mancha bears witness to the city's historic importance and religious role over the centuries. Even today, with papal authorization, masses are celebrated here in the Mozarabic rite of the Visigothic era. In the past, the cathedral site was home to a 7th-century church, then a mosque. Construction of the cathedral began in 1226 and was completed in 1493. The exterior is in typical French Gothic style, while the interior incorporates Mudejar and, above all, Plateresque decorative elements.
Discover Toledo's most important streets and squares on this guided walking tour of the city's jewel, the cathedral.
2. The Alcazar
Dominating Toledo from its highest hill, this 16th-century fortified palace is one of the most imposing and emblematic monuments of the city, one of Europe's 10 must-see medieval cities. Today, the Alcazar houses the Toledo Army Museum and interesting exhibitions. The current building stands on a site that was successively home to Romans, Visigoths and Arabs. In 1535, King Charles V undertook the reconstruction of the fortified palace on this site. It was destroyed by fire three times, and then almost completely destroyed in 1936 during the siege by the Republican army. Under the dictatorship of General Franco, the Alcazar became a symbol of military heroism. For its restoration, the original plans were respected.
Explore Toledo, one of Spain's most fascinating cities, with a 24-hour multi-stop bus ticket bookable right here.
3. Le Puy du Fou España, a must-see in Toledo
Near Toledo, discover the first international version of the famous Vendée park Le Puy du Fou, this time dedicated to Spanish history. This Puy du Fou España offers a spectacular journey through the ages, allowing visitors to explore a 30-hectare site. Among its attractions, four reconstructed period villages invite young and old to take a real trip back in time. The day is punctuated by four thirty-minute shows, before giving way at dusk to the night show "El Sueño de Toledo" ("The Dream of Toledo"). The latter features some 200 actors and impressive special effects to relive 1,500 years of Iberian history. The shows are also available in French via the park's free app. Numerous food and water outlets are scattered around the site, offering a welcome respite, especially on hot summer days. An unmissable visit book here (including the "El Sueño de Toledo" night show).
Tempted? Book your round-trip bus ticket (official transfer )to Puy du Fou España from Toledo right here.
Book my ticket to Puy du Fou España
4. Toledo Sephardic Museum
Next to the prayer hall of the famous Tránsito synagogue is a museum dedicated to Sephardic culture. This interesting museum offers a perspective on the history of the Jewish people in Spain, from Roman times to their expulsion by the Catholic Monarchs. Of course, particular emphasis is placed on their history in the region. It also highlights the specificity of the Sephardic people in this historical context. The museum regularly organizes events linked to the traditional festivals of the Jewish and Spanish calendars. There is also a library and video library.
Looking for an unusual activity to do during your stay in Toledo? We recommend a hot-air balloon flight over Toledo: you'll discover a different side of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage city!
5. El Greco House Museum
The famous 16th-century painter El Greco never actually lived in this house. But it does house some of his works. Among these, the most noteworthy are his View of Toledo, in which he depicts the city in his time, and The Tears of Saint Peter. On the first floor, a small chapel houses a valuable collection of works by artists of the Toledo school, including Luis Tristán, a disciple of El Greco. The house's garden and cellars are also beautifully showcased. A must-see when visiting Toledo, the city where the famous painter died.
6. Iluziona, an experience not to be missed in Toledo
The Iluziona Museum is a not-to-be-missed family experience, offering fascinating immersions, surprising optical illusions and captivating legends. This unique (and very Instagrammable) museum plunges you into the heart of the history of the city of three cultures. You can imagine yourself floating on the ceiling of Cervantes' office, flying over Toledo's mosque on a magic carpet, climbing the cathedral tower, or even finding yourself trapped in a Salvador Dalí glass. Designed to entertain young and old alike, this museum offers a truly playful adventure. And don't forget your camera!
Book my ticket for the Iluziona Museum
7. The ancient gateway of Bisagra
The Puerta de Bisagra Antigua, or Ancient Gate of Bisagra, is the most remarkable of the nine entrances still visible in the walls of Toledo. It commemorates the exploit of Alfonso VI, who in 1085 broke through the ancient Arab wall to enter the city and recapture it from the Muslims. The current gate, built in 1550 to welcome King Charles V, is in a military style, with its imperial crest adorned with eagles and its imposing round towers. A superb building to admire!
Want to explore Toledo's secrets? Book this night tour and discover the lesser-known, more intriguing side of Toledo.
8. Santo Tome church
The Santo Tome church, built in the 12th century, features a Mudejar-style tower. And it's probably the most representative example of this art form in Toledo. In addition to its remarkable architecture, it houses a Mannerist masterpiece by El Greco: The Burial of the Lord of Orgaz (1586). Historians have determined that the man depicted by El Greco was not the Count, as often believed. This work, which has remained in its original state, is reason enough to visit this magnificent Toledo church.
Discover Toledo's Santo Tomé church, Santa María La Blanca synagogue and San Juan de los Reyes monastery by booking this guided tour of Toledo.
9. The Tránsito synagogue
Toledo's most remarkable Mudejar interior ornament lies behind the walls of this ancient synagogue. Built in 1366 by Samuel Ha-Leví, the Jewish treasurer of Peter the Cruel, the Tránsito synagogue was converted into a church after the expulsion of the Jews in 1492. It was donated to the Order of Calatrava and renamed Nuestra Señora del Tránsito (Our Lady of Dormition). The prayer room is adorned with geometric motifs of Hebraic, Islamic and Gothic influence, while next door is the Sephardic Museum, which is well worth a visit.
10. What to do in Toledo Cultural exhibitions
Here's a fascinating visit not to be missed during your stay in Castilla-La Mancha. It's an opportunity to discover the history of Toledo through four simply fascinating exhibits. The first features 28 wooden models of catapults and siege machines. The second reveals the ancient instruments of torture used during the Inquisition, offering a hard-hitting glimpse into those troubled times. Fans of the Knights Templar will appreciate the 3rd exhibition, dedicated to this legendary order. Finally, a captivating exhibition on witchcraft reveals mummies, relics and recipes for magic potions.
11. Feast on tapas
It's no surprise that Spaniards in general are very attached to the ritual of tapeo, or tapas. In Toledo, you'll find the great classics from all over Spain, including all kinds of cold meats such as jamón ibérico, chorizo, salchichón (Spanish sausage) and lomo ibérico (similar to cured filet mignon). Chorizo is also served, as is morcilla, a blood sausage similar to our black pudding. Cheeses are rarer, but it's common to have a few cubes of queso manchego, a Castilian cheese made from sheep's milk. Salted (en salazón) or smoked (ahumadas) anchovies (anchoas) are also popular. Most of these mouthfuls are served on small slices of bread known as montaditos. Ideal before a long night of partying. The perfect way to warm up before heading off to one of Spain's not-to-be-missed music festivals.
See below for some of the hottest things to do in Toledo:
Where to stay in Toledo?
In Toledo, to be at the center of all the tourist attractions, it's best to pack your bags in the Casco Antiguo, the heart of the Old Town.
- Family-friendly: Hotel Santa Isabel
This family-run hotel, located in the heart of the Old Town, is ideally situated, especially when you take advantage of its superb rooftop terrace overlooking the nearby cathedral. Click here to book your stay.
- The most central: the Sercotel Alfonso VI
The Sercotel Alfonso VI is conveniently located opposite Toledo's Alcazar, a 16th-century palace in the city's historic center. The hotel's rooms are tastefully decorated and offer a warm ambience. Click here to book your stay.
- The most luxurious: Parador Conde de Orgaz
If you can afford it, this parador is undoubtedly a very good address for a dream stay. Although it's outside the historic center, it boasts magnificent views over the city, including from its swimming pool. Click here to book your stay.
What to do and see in Toledo in two days?
Often a favorite with tourists visiting Madrid, and a must on any itinerary to discover the beauty of Spain, a two-day getaway to Toledo is a great idea. In just two days, you can get a good overview of the Castilian city by visiting a few must-sees on the first day: the Primada Cathedral, the Alcazar, El Greco's House Museum... After a good tapas evening,the next day can be devoted to continuing the tour of the city or treating yourself to a day at Spain's Puy du Fou before setting off to discover the villages of Spain.
