As we approach the start of December, many are already counting down the days, preparing for the first week’s long weekend or the rest of the month’s festivities. Thus, next Friday, December 6 – Spanish Constitution Day – and the 25th – Christmas Day – will be non-working holidays. In addition, with the first falling on a Friday, it will offer all workers a long weekend, perfect for planning a last-minute trip to discover some of the most striking places on the peninsula.
The center of the country brings together a large number of historic towns and unique places to discover. From cities with remnants of ancient civilizations to forests of enormous trees and green fields, several destinations near the autonomous community of Madrid offer unique experiences perfect for a multi-day getaway. In this way, it is important to take into account which are the fashionable destinations or those which offer the most attractive activities to prepare the most pleasant trip possible.
Knowing what these destinations are and how to make the most of them is essential to having a complete experience during the last month of the year. So here are three excursions you can do near Madrid to enjoy the bridge and the holidays.
Segovia, Castile and León
Just 1 hour by car from Madrid, the city of Segovia is one of the most historic cities on the entire peninsula. Its initial occupation dates back to prehistoric civilizations, although its maximum splendor came from the Roman Empire, of which monuments of great importance are still preserved, such as the main attraction of the enclave, the aqueduct.
Built at the beginning of the 2nd century, it was built with the aim of supplying water to the entire city. As well as being considered one of the city’s characteristic symbols, appearing on its flag and shield, it was also declared a national monument in 1884 and a world heritage site in 1985.
Another of the most striking is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and San Frutos, in late Gothic style and which was built over more than 2 centuries, between 1525 and 1768. Inside it has 18 chapels and 3 naves with several domes and countless stained glass windows.
However, these are not the only historical and religious monuments in the city, which has accumulated work for years until becoming one of the most remarkable destinations for the cultural heritage it houses. So, here are other spaces among the most striking in the city:
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Monastery of San Antonio el Real
- Saint-Étienne Church
- Church of the True Cross
- Royal Mint Museum
Toledo, Castile-la-Mancha
One of the best options just an hour’s drive from Madrid is Toledo. Known as “the City of Three Cultures” due to the coexistence between Christians, Jews and Muslims at different times, Toledo stands out for the high quality of its heritage.
Although it was an important city in the province of Tarragona under the Roman Empire, Toledo is best known for other occupations, such as when it became the capital of the Visigoth kingdom or when it was conquered by the Muslims in 711.
Among the main attractions of Toledo, the Alcazar stands out, located in the highest area of the entire city. This building has been marked by different historical events, such as the War of Succession, the War of Independence or the Spanish Civil War; during which it suffered several damages caused by sieges, fires and others.
However, it is not the only historical monument in the city, since it has a varied heritage, both historical and religious. Other most striking constructions are:
- Primatial Cathedral of Toledo, also called Cathedral of Santa María
- Tránsito Synagogue, current Sephardic museum
- Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca
- Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes
- Bisagra Gate and San Martín Bridge
Aranjuez, in Madrid
One of the main options to enjoy a getaway without needing to leave the Community of Madrid is Aranjuez. Although it is home to prehistoric, Roman and Muslim remains, it was not until the 16th century that King Philip II attached great importance to the enclave by establishing it as a royal residence. In the same way, some time later it became considered an enlightened city thanks to the Bourbon monarchy.
Among the most notable monuments are the Royal Palace – residence of the kings of Spain – and the Royal Gardens, which include the Prince’s Garden, the Island Garden and the Parterre Garden. In the same way, it is also possible to enjoy the Casa del Labrador, a small palace surrounded by nature.
Just 45 minutes from the center of Madrid, the enclave also presents an ideal option for carrying out different easy hiking routes, full of unique environments and landscapes. Thus, the space is not only a great historical and cultural option, but it is also an excellent alternative for nature and sport lovers.
