Visit the UNESCO City of Toledo, Madrid

Explore the historic town of Toledo on a day trip from Madrid. This city has a fascinating past where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities are said to have peacefully coexisted. You can see evidence of this history by visiting some of the city's main sites, which include a 15th-century monastery, a Moorish synagogue, and a former Roman palace. Toledo was also Spain's capital in the 16th century, and you'll learn all about its past with the help of a local private guide.

Toledo is an amazing city worth exploring, and your private tour guide will take you through the city's unique history and heritage. As this is a private tour, your guide will pick you up wherever it's most convenient, whether at your hotel, the train station, the airport, or anywhere in the city. Then, you'll drive about one hour south of Madrid. Though you'll follow the highway, you can catch glimpses of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. 

Then, as you arrive in Toledo, your guide will lead you through what's known as the "city of the three cultures," thanks to its legendary past of historically conflicting religious communities living together harmoniously. Toledo was the capital of Spain in the 16th century and sits atop a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, creating quite a picturesque scene. Enjoy the city views from a few different viewpoints, either at the start of your day or as you leave the city.

There are a few important sites to visit in Toledo, including the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, the former Roman palace Alcázar de Toledo, and the Moorish Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, which dates to the 12th century. You'll also visit the grand 13th-century Toledo Cathedral and the 12th-century Church of Santo Tomé, with its art (a famous masterpiece by the Spanish painter El Greco, who lived in Toledo during the 16th century) and impressive bell tower.

Unsurprisingly, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even simply walking through its streets feels like a step back in time. With your guide's knowledge, you can admire genuine Spanish architecture, including Arab, Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance, and Baroque. You can also follow the more than 500 tiles in the Jewish Quarter, placed to mark the district's borders and signify important monuments and historical sites. 

The rest of the private tour is up to you, as is lunch. Your guide is happy to recommend delicious eateries in Toledo or even outside the city. You can also follow one of the nature paths along the river for some of the best views in Toldeo, especially now that you're familiar with the city's history. The Ruta de Don Quijote is a great option and offers lovely views at Puerta de Doce Cantos. The Senda Ecológica de Toledo trail is a bit more natural and closer to the river, and you'll still get great views at the Mirador del Puente San Martín.

At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to your accommodation (or where you'd like to be dropped off) in Madrid.