Segovia is a world heritage city well known for its impressive Aqueduct built by the Romans and the fairytale castle that inspired Walt Disney for the movie Cinderella.

The main sights are all within easy walking distance, making it an attractive day trip destination from Madrid. However, by spending only a couple of hours here you will soon notice that the city has a lot to offer, and I, therefore, recommend spending at least one night in this beautiful town. This way, you can also see the Aqueduct at night when lights are being turned on. It is worth it!

In this travel guide, I will show you Segovia’s top sights, where to stay, how to arrive, and the local dishes you should try in the Spanish region of Castile and León.

This place is perfect for: Couple Travel / Solo Travel / Family Travel

Best months to visit: June / July / August /  September

From Madrid Airport

From Madrid Airport (Aeropuerto Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas), take the metro line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios (5 stops – 17 minutes). From Nuevos Ministerios, take the metro line 10 to Chamartin (4 stops – 7 minutes).

From Chamartin you can take the train to Segovia Guiomar, which will take about half an hour. Please note that Segovia Guiomar station doesn’t stop in the city center. However, frequent buses take you to the center (close to the Aqueduct).

From Madrid City Center

Several buses (company Avanza) go daily from the Madrid Moncloa bus station to the Segovia bus station. The trip takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, and a one-way ticket only costs 4,19 €

Timetable and Prices

By Car: The distance between Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) and Segovia is 100 km, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes if you decide to go by car ➔ Rent a car

Mid-Range

Hotel Don Felipe: Located in the historic center of Segovia, this 3-Star hotel offers beautiful views of the Alcazar from its gardens. You can find many restaurants and cafés within easy walking distance, and Segovia Cathedral is only a 5-minute walk away from the accommodation.

Luxury

Aureá Convento Capuchinos by Eurostars Hotel Company: Offering a wellness center with massage treatments, Áurea Convento Capuchinos is located in a former monastery in Segovia’s old town, beside Plaza Mayor Square and the Cathedral. The former monastery has two large cloisters and gardens with a terrace. Their rooms are spacious, bright, and chic.

#1 Explore The Aqueduct

When arriving in Segovia and walking into the city center, you’ll be greeted with one of the city’s most significant monuments, the Roman Aqueduct (Spanish: Acueducto de Segovia).

Most of us have already seen a picture of it. But standing in front of it for the first time leaves one speechless, and every time you walk by or through it, it will amaze you again and again. So, if you can make at least a day trip to Segovia, you should go for it!

The Romans built this impressive architectural construction about 2000 years ago. Its function was to carry water from the river to the upper part of the city. It’s fascinating that it withstood all possible weather conditions, such as storms and blizzards, for many years. The Romans truly knew how to do their work.

#2 Take A Look At The House Of The Peaks

When you walk through the streets of Segovia, pay attention to the buildings. You will notice that many of them have an attractive facade. However, the House of the Peaks (Spanish: Casa de los Picos) stands out from all the other buildings. Its front facade is fully covered by peaks that look like little pyramids. It has gone through many ownerships over the years. However, since 1977, it has housed the Segovia School of Art.

You can’t miss it as it is on the right side of the main street, leading you from the Aqueduct to the Cathedral.

#3 Spend some time at Medina del Campo Square

Only a two-minute walk away from the House of the Peaks, you will stumble over the old town’s pretty Medina del Campo square. It is a lovely and picturesque corner next to the San Martín Church that is well preserved. Make sure to spend some time here to check out the interesting buildings surrounding the square and soak up the lovely and somewhat medieval atmosphere.

#4 Step Inside The Cathedral Of Segovia

The Cathedral of Segovia (Spanish: Santa Iglesia Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y de San Frutos) is one of three stunning monuments that are a must-see in Segovia.

Looking at the Cathedral, you will understand why it took two centuries (between the 16th and the 18th) to finish it. And indeed, you will understand why this gothic-style Cathedral is also called The Lady of the Cathedrals. Its impressive appearance from the outside is breathtaking. But also inside, it holds many gems that want to be discovered.

#5 Visit The Alcazar Of Segovia

Visiting the Alcázar of Segovia is a unique experience and an absolute MUST for every visitor.

Accessing the castle area and walking towards the imposing monument with its bright facade, the beautiful towers, and the stunning views you’ll have from all sides will transition you directly into a fairytale moment from which you don’t want to leave. No wonder this castle inspired Walt Disney for the movie Cinderella!

Inside the Alcázar, you will have access to many rooms and quickly notice that they are all decorated quite pompously – it’s pretty impressive how people lived back then! It’s a place I’d always like to come back to when visiting Segovia. However, if you only want to see the outside, I recommend arriving just before sunset for a magical memory!

#6 Walk Up To The Alcázar Viewpoint

This viewpoint is by far the most stunning and my absolute favorite in the city. On my way to the Mirador del Alcázar y los dos Valles, I took a lovely walk alongside the Eresma river (the trail is called Paseo del Eresma). It took me some time to arrive as there was so much to see on the way; the river, a park, cafés, views of the Alcázar, etc.! But once you arrive at the top, the view is terrific.

So take your time and admire the beauty of the Alcázar to its fullest. I recommend going by sunset time as the lightning is gorgeous at this time and fantastic for photos.

Cochinillo de Segovia: It’s a popular dish in Segovia that consists of a roast suckling pig. The waiter will cut the piglet into two parts with a plate to show its tenderness.

Judiones de la Granja: This traditional dish consists of large white beans, sausages (usually chorizo and black pudding), smoked bacon, onion, garlic, laurel, and olive oil.

Patatas Revolconas: A simple yet delicious dish made of mashed potatoes, spicy and sweet paprika, garlic, salt, and oil. It is topped with fried crispy bacon.

Rosquillas Segovianas: Rosquillas Segovianas are like tiny donuts made of flour, butter, eggs, sugar, anise, and cinnamon.

Ponche Segoviano: The Ponche Segoviano is a pretty-looking dessert that is very sweet. It consists of layers of marzipan and custard, topped with icing sugar, giving the cake a beautiful appearance.

Patatas Revolconas

Browse through the list below for some of the most notable museums in Segovia, and check entrance fees, opening hours, and location.

If you have some spare time during your stay, you should consider visiting nearby sites. The places below are perfect for a day trip and will enrich your holiday!

• Walk the medieval walls in Ávila
• Visit Salamanca, also known as the “Golden City”

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Anja