Segovia
Introduction
Nestled along a bend of the Eresma River, you will find Segovia situated within the Inner Plateau of the Iberian Peninsula. Located near the northern slopes of the Sistema Central mountain range, this city serves as the capital and most populated municipality of its namesake province in the Castile and León region.
Before you go
Prepare for a climate that fluctuates between scorching heat and bitter cold. You will find yourself in a high-altitude location situated along an ancient trade and pilgrimage route connecting Madrid to the central plateau. The history of the area is defined by its transition from a Roman stronghold featuring a magnificent aqueduct to a medieval textile hub known for producing Segovienne flannel.
The city's architecture reflects centuries of change, from the stout walls built by Christian settlers to the religious and secular buildings funded by medieval wealth. You can find tourist information at kiosks located in Plaza Azoguejo near the aqueduct or in Plaza Socorro by the cathedral.
Getting there
You can reach the city by plane via Madrid-Barajas Airport, which offers extensive connections across Europe and beyond. From there, take the Metro downtown to access buses and trains heading toward Segovia.
Train travel provides several options from Madrid Chamartin. You can take a nonstop train to Segovia-Guiomar, which is located a short distance south of the town center; from this station, local buses can transport you to the area beneath the Aqueduct or to the main bus station. Alternatively, regional trains run from the older Estacion de Trenes station, which sits closer to the heart of the city.
If you prefer by road, buses depart from Madrid Moncloa as well as from Avila and Salamanca. The Segovia bus station is located just a short walk from the Aqueduct.
Getting around
You can easily explore the walled Old Town on foot, as much of the area is pedestrianized. Because no traffic passes beneath the Aqueduct, you can cross this landmark that divides the city to reach different areas. If you need to park your vehicle, an underground lot is located at Plaza Artilleria on the east side of the Aqueduct, while a tourist information center sits in Plaza del Azoguejo on the west side.
For local transit, a bus service operates from the parking lot at Plaza Artilleria to provide a circuit of the Old Town. Taxis are also available for your use at both the plazas beneath the aqueduct and at the Guiomar railway station.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations that offer distinct atmospheres throughout the city. For those seeking a central location, you might prefer staying in a charming hotel directly on the main square or a spacious option just off it. If you prefer a historic feel, stay in a 19th-century merchant's house or an atmospheric former monastery. For a more modern experience, a chain hotel located next to the aqueduct provides convenient parking despite some street noise.
Depending on your preference for proximity and style, your options include:
- A small hotel with comfortable rooms near the main square
- A pleasant hotel in the old town where many rooms offer views of the cathedral
- A simple establishment located a short walk from the old town
- A parador situated on a hillside north of the center, offering expansive views and parking but requiring a car or taxi to reach local sights
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of Segovia by sampling traditional staples such as slow-roast suckling pig (cochinillo), roast lamb, veal, and beef. You can also enjoy sausages, salads, and a hearty judiones bean stew. For seafood lovers, look for verdel or smoked mackerel. To finish your meal, try local desserts like natillas or ponche segoviano.
Explore the city's diverse dining scene to find everything from numerous tapas bars to specialized establishments:
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available in a spot located just north of the cathedral.
- Traditional Castilian fare can be found at various local mesons, including those offering a rich selection of regional dishes or splendid traditional food near the historic district.
- For a unique experience, you can dine in an old railway dining car on a nearby hill to enjoy views of the city.
What to see and do
Explore the historic architecture of the Old Town, where you can walk from Plaza del Azoguejo up Calle Cervantes to see the 15th-century Casa de los Picos. The city is enclosed by a substantial ring of walls and features several Romanesque churches, including San Martín, San Esteban, and la Santísima Trinidad. Visit the Segovia Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that incorporates elements from its predecessor, or explore the nearby Bishop's Palace and the atmospheric Jewish quarter. For a deeper look into local culture, visit the Museo de Segovia, which houses artifacts related to the region's history, or the Real Casa de Moneda to see an extensive collection of coinage.
Experience the grandeur of the Alcázar, a site featuring a mix of Romanesque and Renaissance styles with distinctive towers. You can also visit the Museo Zuloaga to view paintings and ceramics in a former church, or explore the house of poet Antonio Machado. Beyond the city center, you can travel to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso to see its expansive 18th-century French gardens. For those seeking outdoor activities, the nearby mountains offer skiing at Puerto de Navacerrada and Valdesqui, while the Camino de Madrid provides a pilgrimage trail for hiking.
- Segovia Aqueduct: A Roman structure that makes a spectacular leap across the valley into the Old Town.
- Museo Zuloaga: Featuring paintings and ceramics by Daniel Zuloaga.
- Fundación Torreón de Lozoya: An art museum located in a tower.
- Centro Didáctico de la Judería: Located in the former house of Rabbi Abraham Señor within the Jewish quarter.
- Real Casa de Moneda: A 15th-century Royal Mint turned museum of coinage.
- Jardín Botánico: A nearby wooded park.
Three days in Segovia
Day one, you can begin your journey in the Old Town. You will find yourself immersed in history as you explore the Roman Aqueduct and wander through the local squares like Plaza Azoguejo or Plaza Socorro.
Day two, you can take in more of the surroundings of Segovia. You might visit the nearby area of Plaza Artilleria to experience the character of this region within the Castile landscape.
Day three, you can prepare for your departure from the city. Whether you are heading toward Madrid or other destinations like Avila and Salamanca, you can make your way to the station to begin your next leg of travel.