Toledo Spain

Visitor Guide and Tourist Information

Toledo is located just 70km south of Madrid and is the capital of the Castille La Mancha region, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986, and rightly so, the city is an absolute must-place to visit if you are looking to discover the rich artistic and cultural history of Spain.

Toledo has a long and varied history, having been home to various civilizations throughout the ages, including the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians. The city is famous for its multicultural past, with influences from all these different civilizations visible in the architecture, culture and gastronomy of the region.

Toledo is full of cultural and architectural wonders, some of the most striking include the impressive Alcazar, a fortified palace that dates back to the Roman era.   Another popular attraction is the Toledo Cathedral, which is one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Spain.

Toledo Bridge

The synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca and the Church of Santo Tome, which houses El Greco’s famous painting "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz", is also a place you should visit when in Toledo.

In addition to its cultural attractions, there are numerous charming bars, restaurants, and cafes where you can enjoy the local cuisine and soak up the local atmosphere.

Toledo is also famed for its delicious gastronomy, with dishes such as "cochinillo" (roast suckling pig) and "cordero" (roast lamb) being the most popular local specialities. The city is also famous for its marzipan, which has been produced here since the 16th century.

Metalwork is legendary in the city with swords, daggers, suits of armour, iron furniture, and decorative items all being highly popular. The traditional gold and black enamelled decorative items are a symbol of Toledo throughout Spain.

Pro Tip


Admission fees for most of the monuments in Toledo are priced at €3 per person. To make the most of your visit consider purchasing the Tourist Wristband for just €10. This special pass grants you access to seven top sites in Toledo, excluding the cathedral (€10) and the Alcazar (€5), which have separate admission fees.

» Order the Toledo Bracelet that includes entry to 7 attractions.

5 Interesting Facts about Toledo

  1. The city of Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and monumental legacy.
  2. One of the most famous sons of Toledo is the artist El Greco.
  3. The Toledo Alcazar dates back to the 3rd century and has been used time as a prison, military academy and palace.
  4. Toledo is twinned with 11 cities across the globe including Toledo in the US, Safed in Israel and Havana in Cuba.
  5. Toledo was one of the first Spanish cities to benefit from a train service when the Madrid – Aranjuez line opened in the mid-19th Century.

The History of Toledo

Toledo Bridge

For centuries, Christians, Jews and Arabs resided behind the old walls of Toledo, leaving behind them an outstanding cultural, historical and artistic legacy in the city today.

There is so much to soak up in this fantastic historical Spanish city from over 100 monuments including beautiful churches, palaces, synagogues and mosques.

Enter the old city through the Puerta Bisagra, a beautiful ancient gateway that is in fact two gates, the first built by the Moors in the 6th century and the second added in the 16th century. Once through, discover an abundance of historic and cultural treasures in this magnificent Spanish city.

Probably the most emblematic monument in Toledo is the imposing rectangular Alcazar fortress, which sits on top of the highest hill overlooking the rest of the city.

The Alcazar was originally built by the Romans but was restored under the rules of both Alfonso VI and Alfonso X as well as Charles V in 1535. Each added its own elements to the fortress, transforming it into the fascinating piece of historical architecture it is today.

Yet another iconic building in the city, the Toledo Cathedral sits in the centre of the city and is considered by many to be the very best example of Gothic-style architecture in Spain. Construction began in 1226 but the cathedral was not fully built until the 15th century.

True to Toledo’s multicultural heritage, the cathedral also reflects the Mudejar style (a mix of Islamic and Christian styles) which can be found throughout the city.

There are so many sites of interest within Toledo, and others well worth a mention are the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes; the 13th-century Jewish Synagogue El Transito and the stunning Mosque of Cristo de la Luz built in 999.

Toledo was also the home to one of the world’s most famous artists – El Greco. Born in the 16th century, this outstanding artist made the city famous with his extraordinary works of art and his name now defines Toledo the world over.

The El Greco Museum at the Cathedral houses a superb collection of his work as does the Monastery Cisterciense de Santo Domingo de Silos, also the place where El Greco is buried.

The Alcazar of Toledo

Alcazar of Toledo

The Alcazar de Toledo is a majestic fortress located on the highest hill in the city of Toledo, Spain. The fortress dates back to Roman times and has been modified and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries. It has served as a palace, a military academy, and even a prison during its long history.

During the Spanish Civil War, the Alcazar de Toledo was the site of a famous siege that lasted 70 days. The defenders held out against the Nationalist forces until they were finally relieved by Franco's troops.

Today, the Alcazar de Toledo is a popular tourist attraction and museum. Here, you can explore the various rooms and exhibits that showcase the history of the fortress and the city. The building also offers stunning views of the city from its walls and towers.

The visiting hours for the Alcazar de Toledo vary depending on the season, but it is generally open to the public every day except Mondays. Guided tours are available, and visitors can purchase tickets online or at the entrance to the fortress.

Toledo Cathedral

Toledo Cathedral

Toledo Cathedral, also known as the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Toledo, Spain.

Its construction began in 1226 on the site of a former mosque and was completed in the 15th century.

The cathedral's exterior is striking, with a beautiful blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Inside, visitors can admire its impressive stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and stunning chapels.

One of its most famous features is the Transparente, a Baroque altarpiece that appears to glow from within.

You can also climb to the top of the cathedral's bell tower, the Torre del Campanario, for breathtaking views of Toledo and the surrounding countryside.

Toledo Cathedral is open to visitors daily, with varying opening hours depending on the season. Admission fees apply, but visitors can also purchase combination tickets that include access to other nearby attractions such as the Alcazar of Toledo and the El Greco Museum.

Audio guides and guided tours are also available for an additional fee, night visits are also available for groups.

The Corpus Christi Festiva

Corpus Cristi Toledo

Although celebrated throughout Spain, Toledo is the prime focus for one of the most important dates on the catholic calendar – the Festival of Corpus Christi – and its procession has been declared one of international interest.

The festival takes place on the first Thursday after Trinity Sunday. The streets are beautifully decorated with awnings, wreaths, medieval weaver’s guilds fabrics and lanterns and the ground is strewn with coloured flowers and fragrant herbs.

The gold monstrance by Enrique de Arce is taken out of the Cathedral and paraded through the streets of the city by various religious groups dressed in differing coloured hooded robes. Although Toledo is extremely busy at this time of year, it truly is an amazing festival and the city hosts a whole programme of events throughout the week.

Saint Martins Bridge

St Martins Bridge

Saint Martin's Bridge, known as Puente de San Martín in Spanish, is one of the iconic landmarks of Toledo, Spain.

This medieval bridge spans across the Tagus River and is Located on the southern edge of the historic old town, the bridge serves as a crucial connection between the city centre and the San Martin neighbourhood of Toledo.

Constructed in the 14th century, Saint Martin's Bridge showcases stunning architectural features and historical significance. It consists of five arches, with the central arch being the largest and most prominent. Each arch is adorned with intricate stonework, displaying the craftsmanship of the era.

Walking across the bridge can soak in the panoramic views of the city, including the imposing Alcazar fortress and the majestic Cathedral.

To reach Saint Martin's Bridge, visitors can walk from the city centre, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

The Church of San Juan de Los Reyes

Church of San Juan de Los Reyes

The Church of San Juan de Los Reyes is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. It was commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile to commemorate their victory in the Battle of Toro in 1476.

This impressive church, known for its intricate façade and beautiful interior, is a must-visit for first-time visitors to Toledo.

The church is located in the Jewish Quarter, just a short distance from the city centre, a walk takes around 10-15 minutes to reach, follow Calle de los Reyes Catolicos, one of the main streets in Toledo, until you reach the church on the left side.

The church's stunning façade is adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting religious symbols and scenes from the Battle of Toro.

The interior of the church is equally impressive, with soaring arches, detailed vaulted ceilings, and ornate altarpieces.

One of the highlights is its serene courtyard, featuring a beautiful cloister with elegant arches and a tranquil garden. This peaceful space provides a welcome respite from the bustling streets of Toledo, offering visitors a chance to relax and reflect.

The Church of San Juan de Los Reyes is open to the public for visits throughout the year, with varying opening hours depending on the season.

It is advisable to check the official website or consult local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information.

The Puerta Bisagra

Puerta Bisagra Toledo

The Puerta Bisagra is a magnificent city gate and one of the main entrances to the city.

This iconic landmark dates back to the Moorish era and has undergone various renovations over the centuries.

Its strategic location, historical significance, and impressive architecture make it well worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Toledo.

Located on the eastern side of the city, the Puerta Bisagra can be easily reached from the city centre by foot.

From the main square, Plaza de Zocodover, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk along Calle del Comercio and Calle de Alfonso X el Sabio.

The Puerta Bisagra consists of two imposing towers and a central archway, adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements.

The gate provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's history and showcases a mix of architectural styles, including Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance influences.

Its strategic location, historical significance, and impressive architecture makes it well worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Toledo.

Best Things to Do in Toledo

Toledo Statue

  1. Explore the underground caves of Toledo: Beneath the city's streets lies a network of ancient caves and tunnels, which can be explored on a guided tour.
  2. Take a hot air balloon ride over Toledo: See the city from a new perspective by taking a balloon ride, offering panoramic views of Toledo and the surrounding countryside.
  3. Attend a medieval banquet: Dine like a king or queen at a medieval-themed banquet, complete with period costumes and entertainment.
  4. Take a ghost tour of Toledo: Hear spooky stories and legends on a guided tour of Toledo's haunted sites, including the old prison and the castle.
  5. Visit the San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery: This stunning Gothic monastery is home to a beautiful courtyard and cloister, as well as a peaceful garden.
  6. Take a chocolate-making workshop: Learn how to make traditional Spanish chocolates at a local workshop, where you can create your own unique flavour combinations.
  7. Visit the Jewish Quarter: A fascinating neighbourhood where the Jews lived in the Middle Ages
  8. Take a river cruise on the Tagus: Take a leisurely cruise down the Tagus River, which flows through the heart of Toledo, and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
  9. Attend a flamenco show: Experience the passion and energy of Spanish flamenco at a live performance, complete with live music and dancing.
  10. Visit the Toledo Manchego Cheese Museum. The Museo de Queso Manchego is located in the heart of Toledo and offers a museum, tasting room and shop.
  11. Visit the Puy de Fou theme park. A  dazzling "El Sueño de Toledo" night show that takes you on a journey through Spanish history performed by dancers and acrobats.
  12. Visit the Iluziona Museum: This unique illusion-inspired museum is a fun place to visit for all the family.

Free Things To Do In Toledo

Toledo offers many excellent free activities to experience its cultural charms:

Wandering the postcard-perfect streets of Toledo's UNESCO-listed old town is free and the best way to soak up the medieval atmosphere. Stop to appreciate architectural details on the Casa y Torre de las Cadenas and other landmarks along the way.

Step into the vast, Gothic-Mudejar splendour of Toledo Cathedral to admire the intricate details, artworks, and soaring ceilings without paying an entry fee. Don't miss El Greco's masterpiece painting The Burial of the Count of Orgaz on display.

Take in views of Toledo's skyline, the Tagus River, and surrounding plains from scenic overlooks like Mirador del Valle and Miradero de la Canaleja. The sunset views are stunning from these vantage points.

Stroll down the Calle Comercio, perfect for a shopping trip, pop into free museums like the Museum of Words, and visit historic sites like San Juan de los Reyes monastery to appreciate the mix of cultures.

Enjoy free performances, activities, and festivities in Toledo's principal plaza, Zocodover, the heart of the city's social life.

Toledo delivers memorable experiences without spending a centimo!

 

Try A Unique Museum Experience

Museum Iluziona Toledo

If you are planning to visit the amazing city of Toledo in the near future, you will probably be thinking, of Art by Greco, the Santo Domingo Monastery, or the famous Jewish and Christian monuments, well there is another truly unique attraction you should visit.

The Iluziona Museum is fast becoming a major attraction in Toledo as it offers a fun way to learn all about the art of illusion that is perfect for all the family.

This is such a unique attraction that would not expect to find in such a historic city but is well worth visiting and a welcome break from the other tourist landmarks you will find in Toledo

Things to do in Toledo With Children:

Toledo Zoo

Visit Toledo's Alcazar:

Explore this historic fortress, which houses the Museum of the Army. Children can admire the impressive architecture, climb its towers, and learn about Spain's military history.

Website: Alcazar de Toledo

Toledo Zoo and Botanical Garden:

A fun day out for the whole family, the zoo features a wide range of animals from around the world. The botanical garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll and learning about different plant species.

Website: Toledo Zoo

Toledo Train Vision:

Take a guided train tour that offers an interactive and informative way to discover Toledo's history and landmarks, making it engaging for both kids and adults.

Website: Toledo Train Vision

Labyrinth of Toledo:

Located in the Jewish Quarter, this maze-like garden provides a fun and adventurous experience for children as they navigate through the twists and turns.

Toledo Cathedral:

While it might not sound exciting for kids, the cathedral's awe-inspiring architecture and stained glass windows can be a captivating experience. Some children's tours are available to make it more engaging.

Website: Toledo Cathedral

Picnic in the Parks:

Toledo has several beautiful parks, such as the Parque de las Tres Culturas ( Google Maps ), where families can have a picnic and relax amid nature.

Toledo Gastronomy

Manchego Cheese
Manchego Cheese

The gastronomy of Toledo is wide and varied due to its rich heritage and a blend of the Christian, Jewish, and Moorish cultures.

The most popular dishes in Toledo include "cuchifrito", a pork dish cooked with garlic, bay leaves, and white wine. "Migas" is a dish made from leftover bread, garlic, olive oil, and paprika, often served with chorizo and fried eggs, and "Carcamusas" is a stew made with pork, vegetables, and white wine.

Toledo is also known for its "marzipan," a sweet pastry made from almonds and sugar. Other traditional sweets include "yemas de Toledo," made from egg yolks and sugar, and "rosquillas de San Juan," doughnuts flavoured with anise.

Cheese fans are in for a real treat as the world-renowned Manchego cheese comes from the region and for those with a sweet tooth, the local marzipan cakes are delicious.

Eating out in Toledo

Here is our round-up of popular bars and restaurants which serve traditional local and regional dishes.

Restaurant Tobiko

Located on Calle Ronda de Buenavista number 27 in central Toledo the Tobiko Restaurant is one of the most popular fine dining eateries in Toledo, and for good reason.

Local produce is the mainstay of their cooking although the menu is a mixture of traditional Spanish with South American and Asian influences.

Signature dishes include Iberian Port Secret with Almagro Onions,  Roasted Sea Bass and artisan Ham Croquettes.

Restaurant Adolfo

 

Located on Calle Hombre de Palo Number 7 in central Toledo this is another award-winning fine dining restaurant serving an array of delicious authentic Spanish dishes. Signature dishes at Restaurant Adolfo include Smoked Octopus, a Carpaccio of  Langoustines and Red Pidgeon.

Restaurant Meson La Orza

Located on Calle Descalzos 5,  in the heart of the Jewish quarter in central Toledo.

This award-winning restaurant is the place to relax and enjoy traditional local cooking in relaxed surroundings.

Famous faces from the world of politics, sport and the arts regularly choose La Orza to dine at.

Signature dishes include Lomo de Orza, pork tenderloin served with Parmesan ice cream and a pine nut praline; Migas, a traditional Spanish breadcrumb dish served with lamb sweetbreads; roast suckling lamb and pig; partridge on Arroz Meloso.

Taberna El Embrujo

Located on Calle Santa Leocadia Number 6, in the heart of Toledo, the Taberna El Embrujo is a great place for relaxed dining with a large selection of delightful fresh tapas and some great local wines to try. 

Although the bar can get busy with locals and tourists alike it is well worth the wait, the bar is situated within a typical plaza which adds to the ambience of your meal.

Impressively you will be treated to some free tapas while you wait for your main courses to arrive.

Toledo Hotels & Accommodation


With its wealth of historic architecture, Toledo offers accommodations spanning charming hotels in renovated monasteries and palaces to budget guesthouses tucked into medieval buildings.

For luxury, the Parador de Toledo is set in a converted 15th-century convent with an unmatched location atop the town's hillside ruins. Equally opulent, Hotel San Juan de Los Reyes occupies a meticulously restored 17th-century monastery in the historic Jewish quarter.

Mid-range hotels provide character without the steep prices. Hacienda del Cardenal offers rooms in a noble 16th-century mansion with a quiet patio. El Hostal del Cardenal features a sleek update on a traditional Toledan manor home.

On a budget, Hostal Santo Tome is a friendly guesthouse along the Tagus River offering great value. Cool, contemporary apartments are also available to rent.

 

 

Getting to Toledo From Madrid

Getting to Toledo from Madrid is convenient as there a number of options available.

If you prefer driving, the journey takes approximately 50 minutes on the A42 highway. We recommend parking outside the old town or near the Tagus River and exploring the city centre on foot. There are both free and paid parking options available, including spaces near the Alcantara Bridge, where you'll also find a tourist information office.

There is a direct train from Atocha station in Madrod that takes just 30 minutes to reach Toledo. Another option is taking the bus from Plaza Elíptica, which will get you to Toledo in about an hour. Both the train and bus offer scenic views along the way.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely, for its well-preserved medieval architecture, mix of Jewish, Moorish and Christian history, and iconic sites like the Cathedral and Alcazar.

Its historic legacy as the former capital of Spain and the breathtaking medieval architecture of its historic center, a UNESCO site.

Exploring the narrow alleys, visiting the Cathedral, the Alcazar, churches, synagogues, and local shops and museums around the old town.

1-2 full days allow ample time to see the main sights without feeling rushed. It can also be done as a day trip from Madrid.

Yes, to experience its atmosphere, and get the old town to yourself early in the mornings before day-trippers arrive.

Yes, the main attractions are concentrated and walkable within Toledo's small historic center.

Around 3-5 hours depending on the pace is needed to wander around the central historic sites and shops.

Yes, it's a very scenic town steeped in history with lots of charm that's enjoyable to explore on foot.

Yes, in some bars and restaurants but nightlife is limited compared to big cities like Madrid or Barcelona.

Yes, only about 70 km or a quick 30-40 minute train ride south of Madrid.

Toledo is renowned for its marzipan treats, a sweet confectionery made from almonds.

For the historic mix of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian influences seen in its architecture over time.

For its immense Gothic architecture and abundance of artworks, including many by the famed local artist, El Greco.

No, but it is certainly one of the oldest and most historic cities in Spain with its well-preserved medieval structures.

TOLEDO WEATHER