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Madrid to Avila Day Trips

Handpicked tours
Handpicked tours
Effortless planning
Effortless planning
Expert guides. Unique insights
Expert guides. Unique insights
























Segovia Cathedral with surrounding historic architecture in Segovia, Spain, viewed from a distance.
Avila cityscape with medieval walls and historic buildings in Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with detailed stone facade and Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
Roman aqueduct in Segovia with tourists exploring the ancient stone arches.
Segovia Cathedral exterior with intricate Gothic architecture in Segovia, Spain.
Segovia's Jewish Quarter street with historic stone buildings and archway.
Segovia's Alcazar with surrounding landscape, viewed from a distance, highlighting its historic architecture.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
Segovia Cathedral with surrounding historic architecture in Segovia, Spain, viewed from a distance.
Avila cityscape with medieval walls and historic buildings in Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with detailed stone facade and Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
Roman aqueduct in Segovia with tourists exploring the ancient stone arches.
Segovia Cathedral exterior with intricate Gothic architecture in Segovia, Spain.
Segovia's Jewish Quarter street with historic stone buildings and archway.
Segovia's Alcazar with surrounding landscape, viewed from a distance, highlighting its historic architecture.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
Segovia Cathedral with surrounding historic architecture in Segovia, Spain, viewed from a distance.
Avila cityscape with medieval walls and historic buildings in Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with detailed stone facade and Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
Roman aqueduct in Segovia with tourists exploring the ancient stone arches.
Segovia Cathedral exterior with intricate Gothic architecture in Segovia, Spain.
Segovia's Jewish Quarter street with historic stone buildings and archway.
Segovia's Alcazar with surrounding landscape, viewed from a distance, highlighting its historic architecture.
Segovia aqueduct and Avila city walls on a day trip from Madrid.
NEW

From Madrid: Segovia & Ávila‎ Full-Day Trip

from
€50
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
9 hr.
Transfers included
Itinerary
Timeline
Map
START POINT

Madrid

Meet your guide and hop on an AC bus to start your adventure.

109 km

74 minutes

1

Avila

3 attractions

Things to do

1. Walls of Avila

Free Admission

A medieval fortress that encircles the city, these walls are one of the best-preserved in Europe. Walking along them offers breathtaking views and a tangible connection to Spain’s past.

2. Basílica de San Vicente

Tickets included

Admire the basilica’s exterior, then step inside to explore its crypt and medieval art. This Romanesque basilica tells the story of three Christian martyrs. 

3. Ávila Cathedral

Tickets not included

Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, built into the city walls, blending fortress-like architecture with stunning stained glass and intricate chapels. The cathedral has appeared in several Spanish historical dramas.

4. Tapas and your choice of beverage

Snacks

After exploring Ávila, take a break with a glass of wine, beer, or a soft drink, paired with delicious tapas. Prefer to keep exploring? Wander at your own pace and regroup to head to Segovia.

66 km

51 minutes

2

Segovia

4 attractions

Things to do

Alcazar of Segovia

Tickets included (based on selection)

A fairy-tale fortress that inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Moorish styles makes it a unique sight. Step inside to wander the halls of kings and knights, then climb the tower for stunning views.

Nearby things to do

Aqueduct of Segovia
3 min walk
passby-image
Plaza Mayor
8 min walk
passby-image
Segovia Cathedral
8 min walk

91 km

64 minutes

3

END POINT

Madrid

Ditch the planning woes! Tour 2 UNESCO cities in a lux AC bus and savor authentic tapas.

  • Day out: Experience the best of Ávila & Segovia, from Roman engineering to medieval fortresses, in a fascinating full-day trip.
  • You'll get: Roundtrip transfers in a plush AC bus, a bilingual guide, entry to Ávila’s walls and St. Teresa Church, plus a well-planned itinerary covering all the highlights. Top it off with tapas and your choice of beverage (beer/ wine/ soft drink)!
  • Segovia: Go on an hour-long guided tour of the city's cobblestone streets and squares, walking alongside the Roman aqueduct and an expert guide.
  • Ávila‎: Stroll along massive 11th-century stone walls, relive battle tales, and visit St. Teresa Church to honor the city’s beloved saint.
  • Upgrades: Delve deeper into history with a guided tour of Alcázar of Segovia, its Mudejar ceilings, medieval tapestries, and sky-high turrets.

Ditch the planning woes! Tour 2 UNESCO cities in a lux AC bus and savor authentic tapas.

  • Day out: Experience the best of Ávila & Segovia, from Roman engineering to medieval fortresses, in a fascinating full-day trip.
  • You'll get: Roundtrip transfers in a plush AC bus, a bilingual guide, entry to Ávila’s walls and St. Teresa Church, plus a well-planned itinerary covering all the highlights. Top it off with tapas and your choice of beverage (beer/ wine/ soft drink)!
  • Segovia: Go on an hour-long guided tour of the city's cobblestone streets and squares, walking alongside the Roman aqueduct and an expert guide.
  • Ávila‎: Stroll along massive 11th-century stone walls, relive battle tales, and visit St. Teresa Church to honor the city’s beloved saint.
  • Upgrades: Delve deeper into history with a guided tour of Alcázar of Segovia, its Mudejar ceilings, medieval tapestries, and sky-high turrets.

Inclusions

  • Full-day tour of Segovia & Ávila‎ 
  • Expert English and Spanish-speaking bilingual guide
  • Pick-up from Madrid
  • Round-trip transfers in a luxury AC bus
  • Entry to Segovia Alcázar(as per option selected)
  • Tapas and wine/beer/ soft drinks

Exclusions

  • Lunch
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Tip: Consider purchasing local specialties like honey, olive oil, or traditional sweets as souvenirs. These can be found in markets or specialty food shops.
  • This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, and people with mobility impairments.
  • Infant seats are applicable for children over 1 year old. Children under the age of 1 year must sit on your lap.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Medieval walls surrounding the historical city of Avila, Spain, with ancient stone towers and battlements.
Tourists exploring the historic Medieval city walls of Ávila, Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Avila city walls and Salamanca's Plaza Mayor on a guided tour from Madrid.
Tourists strolling through Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, Spain, surrounded by historic architecture.
Avila's medieval city walls with illuminated towers at dusk.
Avila Cathedral's intricate stone facade with detailed carvings in Avila, Spain.
Salamanca Cathedral exterior with intricate stone carvings and Gothic architecture in Salamanca, Spain.
Salamanca University historic facade with intricate carvings and architectural details in Salamanca, Spain.
Basilica de San Vicente in Ávila with Romanesque architecture and detailed stone carvings.
Medieval walls surrounding the historical city of Avila, Spain, with ancient stone towers and battlements.
Tourists exploring the historic Medieval city walls of Ávila, Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Avila city walls and Salamanca's Plaza Mayor on a guided tour from Madrid.
Tourists strolling through Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, Spain, surrounded by historic architecture.
Avila's medieval city walls with illuminated towers at dusk.
Avila Cathedral's intricate stone facade with detailed carvings in Avila, Spain.
Salamanca Cathedral exterior with intricate stone carvings and Gothic architecture in Salamanca, Spain.
Salamanca University historic facade with intricate carvings and architectural details in Salamanca, Spain.
Basilica de San Vicente in Ávila with Romanesque architecture and detailed stone carvings.
Medieval walls surrounding the historical city of Avila, Spain, with ancient stone towers and battlements.
Tourists exploring the historic Medieval city walls of Ávila, Spain.
Avila Cathedral exterior with Gothic architecture in Avila, Spain.
Avila city walls and Salamanca's Plaza Mayor on a guided tour from Madrid.
Tourists strolling through Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, Spain, surrounded by historic architecture.
Avila's medieval city walls with illuminated towers at dusk.
Avila Cathedral's intricate stone facade with detailed carvings in Avila, Spain.
Salamanca Cathedral exterior with intricate stone carvings and Gothic architecture in Salamanca, Spain.
Salamanca University historic facade with intricate carvings and architectural details in Salamanca, Spain.
Basilica de San Vicente in Ávila with Romanesque architecture and detailed stone carvings.
NEW

From Madrid: Ávila & Salamanca Full Day Trip

from
€94
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
11 hr.
Transfers included
Itinerary
Timeline
Map
START POINT

Madrid

Meet your guide and hop on an AC bus to start your adventure.

214 km

2 hours 18 minutes

1

Salamanca

5 attractions

A city of golden sandstone, Salamanca is home to Spain’s oldest university, grand plazas, and a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Walk through historic streets, soak in the town’s energy, and admire its iconic monuments.

Things to do

1. Plaza Mayor

Free Admission

A grand Baroque square, buzzing with cafes and history. It’s Salamanca’s living room, where locals and visitors alike gather.

2. Plaza del Corrillo

Free Admission

The square has been a marketplace since medieval times. Stroll through this hidden gem, admire historic buildings, and enjoy a moment away from the crowds.

3. Cathedral of Salamanca

Tickets included

A breathtaking mix of Gothic and Baroque, this dual cathedral complex offers stunning domes and intricate carvings. Step inside to admire stunning frescoes, grand chapels, and the famous facade filled with hidden figures.

Nearby things to do

passby-image
University of Salamanca
5 min walk
passby-image
Casa de las Conchas
5 min walk

109 km

66 minutes

2

Avila

3 attractions

A medieval walled city frozen in time, Ávila is known for its perfectly preserved ramparts and ties to Saint Teresa of Ávila. Walk atop the walls, explore ancient churches, and uncover stories of knights and saints.

Things to do

1. Plaza Mercado Chico

Free Admission

The heart of Ávila’s old town, this picturesque square has been the city’s commercial and political hub for centuries. Explore this charming square and discover local artisan shops.

2. Ávila Cathedral

Tickets not included

Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, built into the city walls, blending fortress-like architecture with stunning stained glass and intricate chapels. The cathedral has appeared in several Spanish historical dramas.

3. Walls of Avila

Tickets not included

A medieval fortress that encircles the city, these walls are one of the best-preserved in Europe. Walking along them offers breathtaking views and a tangible connection to Spain’s past.

109 km

74 minutes

3

END POINT

Madrid

See Spain's oldest walls and university in a full-day guided trip, complete with transfers.

  • Day out: Walk through two UNESCO cities, tracing Spain’s past from medieval walls in Ávila to Salamanca’s grand cathedrals and golden sandstone streets.
  • You'll get: Bilingual guide? Check. AC transfers from Madrid? Check. Entry to Salamanca Cathedral? Also check! Walk Ávila’s ancient walls, admire Salamanca’s historic university, and soak in the charm of Spain’s best-preserved medieval cities without the stress of planning!
  • Segovia: Step into a fairytale as you explore Ávila’s 11th-century walls, Gothic palaces, and churches that whisper centuries of Spanish history.
  • Salamanca: Enter Salamanca Cathedral with your guide, wander through chapels, admire Gothic masterpieces, and spot hidden symbols in the stonework.

See Spain's oldest walls and university in a full-day guided trip, complete with transfers.

  • Day out: Walk through two UNESCO cities, tracing Spain’s past from medieval walls in Ávila to Salamanca’s grand cathedrals and golden sandstone streets.
  • You'll get: Bilingual guide? Check. AC transfers from Madrid? Check. Entry to Salamanca Cathedral? Also check! Walk Ávila’s ancient walls, admire Salamanca’s historic university, and soak in the charm of Spain’s best-preserved medieval cities without the stress of planning!
  • Segovia: Step into a fairytale as you explore Ávila’s 11th-century walls, Gothic palaces, and churches that whisper centuries of Spanish history.
  • Salamanca: Enter Salamanca Cathedral with your guide, wander through chapels, admire Gothic masterpieces, and spot hidden symbols in the stonework.

Inclusions

  • Full-day tour of Ávila and Salamanca
  • Expert English and Spanish-speaking bilingual guide
  • Pick-up from Madrid
  • Round-trip transfers in an AC bus
  • Entry to Salamanca's Cathedral

Exclusions

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Entry to monuments of Ávila
  • This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, and people with mobility impairments.
  • The tour’s start point is in central Madrid, making it easily accessible by public transport.
  • The itinerary of this tour is subject to change.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Alcazar and San Martin Bridge in Toledo with scenic river view.
Tourists with a guide at Mirador del Valle viewpoint overlooking Toledo, Spain.
Visitors with a guide at San Martín Bridge in Toledo, Spain, during a guided tour.
Alcazar of Toledo in Spain with tourists exploring the historic fortress.
Toledo old town street with historic buildings and tourists exploring, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral facade with tourists exploring the historic site in Toledo, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral interior with ornate arches and detailed stone carvings, showcasing historical architecture.
Tourists with guide at Segovia's Roman aqueduct, Spain.
Tourists exploring Segovia Alcazar's historic architecture in Spain.
Alcazar Gate in Avila, Spain, showcasing historic stone walls and medieval architecture.
Alcazar and San Martin Bridge in Toledo with scenic river view.
Tourists with a guide at Mirador del Valle viewpoint overlooking Toledo, Spain.
Visitors with a guide at San Martín Bridge in Toledo, Spain, during a guided tour.
Alcazar of Toledo in Spain with tourists exploring the historic fortress.
Toledo old town street with historic buildings and tourists exploring, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral facade with tourists exploring the historic site in Toledo, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral interior with ornate arches and detailed stone carvings, showcasing historical architecture.
Tourists with guide at Segovia's Roman aqueduct, Spain.
Tourists exploring Segovia Alcazar's historic architecture in Spain.
Alcazar Gate in Avila, Spain, showcasing historic stone walls and medieval architecture.
Alcazar and San Martin Bridge in Toledo with scenic river view.
Tourists with a guide at Mirador del Valle viewpoint overlooking Toledo, Spain.
Visitors with a guide at San Martín Bridge in Toledo, Spain, during a guided tour.
Alcazar of Toledo in Spain with tourists exploring the historic fortress.
Toledo old town street with historic buildings and tourists exploring, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral facade with tourists exploring the historic site in Toledo, Spain.
Toledo Cathedral interior with ornate arches and detailed stone carvings, showcasing historical architecture.
Tourists with guide at Segovia's Roman aqueduct, Spain.
Tourists exploring Segovia Alcazar's historic architecture in Spain.
Alcazar Gate in Avila, Spain, showcasing historic stone walls and medieval architecture.
NEW

From Madrid: Toledo, Segovia & Ávila Full-Day Trip

from
€109
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
11 hr.
Transfers included
Itinerary
Timeline
Map
START POINT

Madrid

Get picked up from a central location, hop on a luxury coach, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain’s most historic cities.

78 km

1 minute

1

Toledo

2 attractions

First stop, the timeless city of Toledo! Wander through its ancient streets where grand cathedrals, stunning synagogues, and rich history intertwine.

Things to do

1. Toledo Cathedral

Tickets not included

Marvel at this Gothic wonder where soaring spires and the dazzling El Transparente altarpiece turn light into magic.

2. Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

Tickets not included

Discover the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes - a stellar vault, Gothic cloister, dazzling Mudéjar ceilings, and the chains of freed prisoners.

160 km

1 hour 40 minutes

2

Segovia

3 attractions

Wander through this fairy-tale city known for its ancient Roman aqueducts, majestic Gothic Cathedral, and the Alcázar straight from a storybook.

Things to do

1. Segovia Aqueduct

Free Admission

Behold the Segovia Aqueduct—an ancient Roman marvel with 167 arches spanning 818 meters, crafted from granite with impeccable precision and timeless elegance.

2. Segovia Cathedral

Tickets not included

Picture soaring Gothic spires, a dazzling rose window casting a rainbow of colorful light, and an altarpiece so intricate it’s like stepping into a cathedral of living art.

3. Alcázar of Segovia

Tickets included

Live your fairytale dream at the Alcázar of Segovia—where grand battlements crown the castle and the Hall of the Kings dazzles with gold hexagon and diamond ceilings.

64.3 km

50 minutes

3

Ávila

2 attractions

A fortified marvel with towering medieval walls and timeless elegance, inviting you to explore its rich heritage and tranquil, historic ambiance.

Things to do

1. Walls of Ávila

Ancient stelae and funerary inscriptions reveal secrets of bygone lives, and enigmatic verracos, wild boar sculptures, hint at ancient rituals and beliefs.

2. Mirador de los Cuatro Postes

Say Adiós to Ávila from the Mirador de los Cuatro Postes, where four pillars hold up a breathtaking view of the city's historic heart.

112 km

75 minutes

4

END POINT

Madrid

Juggle 3 UNESCO cities in a day with a well-rounded itinerary and a bilingual guide.

  • Day out: Escape Madrid and explore 3 closest UNESCO gems—Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila, packed with castles, cathedrals, and centuries of history!
  • You'll get: This full-day trip whisks you to 3 cities hassle-free. Enjoy comfy transfers, expert insights in English and Spanish by a bilingual guide, and entry to Segovia’s dreamy Alcázar. Your day will be loaded but well-paced, so you won't have to rush!
  • Toledo & Segovia: Explore Toledo’s old town and Segovia’s ancient walls with a guide who knows all the panoramic spots and medieval secrets.
  • Ávila: Marvel at Ávila’s towering walls, round towers, and ancient necropolis, it makes you feel like you are in a fantasy novel.

Juggle 3 UNESCO cities in a day with a well-rounded itinerary and a bilingual guide.

  • Day out: Escape Madrid and explore 3 closest UNESCO gems—Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila, packed with castles, cathedrals, and centuries of history!
  • You'll get: This full-day trip whisks you to 3 cities hassle-free. Enjoy comfy transfers, expert insights in English and Spanish by a bilingual guide, and entry to Segovia’s dreamy Alcázar. Your day will be loaded but well-paced, so you won't have to rush!
  • Toledo & Segovia: Explore Toledo’s old town and Segovia’s ancient walls with a guide who knows all the panoramic spots and medieval secrets.
  • Ávila: Marvel at Ávila’s towering walls, round towers, and ancient necropolis, it makes you feel like you are in a fantasy novel.

Inclusions

  • Full-day tour of Toledo, Segovia and Ávila
  • Expert English and Spanish-speaking bilingual guide
  • Round-trip transfers in an AC bus
  • Pick-up from Madrid
  • Entry to Alcázar of Segovia

Exclusions

  • Lunch and beverages
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Starting point: Madrid

Check the location shared on your final voucher to meet your guide and board your comfortable transfers for the day.

  • Toledo

Walk the narrow historic streets, and pass by the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.

  • Segovia

This enchanting city welcomes you with its ingenious aqueduct, iconic Alcázar, and beautiful Segovia Cathedral that towers over the highest part of town.

  • Ávila

Surrounded by 11th-century walls, beset by an enormous Roman necropolis, discover the city's historic center – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • End point: Madrid
  • Tip: Visit Toledan Damascene workshops. where swords were made exclusively for the Lord of the Rings movies and Game of Thrones!
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible, the streets of Toledo are narrow and paved. People with mobility impairments may have difficulties accessing some parts of the city.
  • The itinerary of this tour is subject to change.
  • The tour’s start point is in central Madrid, making it easily accessible by public transport.
  • This tour is not recommended for people with heart or back problems and other serious medical conditions.
  • This tour requires at least two participants. If the minimum isn’t met, your trip will be rescheduled.
  • Reach the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the scheduled visit for a seamless experience.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
MadridMadrid to Avila day trip

What are your Madrid to Avila day trip options?

Too many great options and cannot decide which is the best one for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide.

  • Love medieval vibes? This Avila and Segovia full-day trip is the one for you. Walk Ávila’s epic walls, then hop over to Segovia for its jaw-dropping Roman aqueduct and castle straight out of a fairytale.
  • Those here for culture and spirituality, choose the Avila and Salamanca full-day trip. This tour blends Avila’s deep religious heritage with Salamanca’s historic university and grand cathedrals.
  • Want to tick 3 UNESCO cities off your bucket list in one day? Pick the Toledo, Avila, Segovia full-day trip! It’s a fast-paced adventure covering Toledo’s cultural fusion, Segovia’s ancient wonders, and Ávila’s fortress-like beauty.

Compare the best Madrid to Avila trips

Segovia & Avila Day Trip
Avila & Salamanca Day Trip
Segovia, Toledo, & Avila Day Trip

Duration

9 hours

11 hours

11 hours

AC transfers

Food

Tapas & 1 drink

Avila

Guided walking tour of Avila & St. Teresa Church

Guided walking tour of Avila

Guided walking tour of Avila

Beyond Avila

Guided walking tour of Segovia & its aqueduct

Guided walking tour of Salamanca & its Cathedral

Guided walking tour of Segovia along its aqueduct & Toledo’s old town with entry to Toledo Cathedral

Free cancellation

Price

Starting at €51

Starting at €94

Starting at €109

How to get to Avila from Madrid

Want to skip the hassle of train schedules and bus timetables? Book a Madrid to Avila day trip and et viola! Everything’s sorted, from transport and itinerary to a bilingual guide who’ll bring history to life in vivid colors. However, if you’d rather DIY your visit, here’s everything you need to know:

By bus
By train
By car

Tourist boarding air-conditioned coach bus for transfer to Montserrat Monastery.

It’s the cheapest option and drops you close to the old town.

  • Take any of the ALSA buses
  • Start Station: Estación Sur (Méndez Álvaro) or Moncloa, Madrid
  • Destination station: Ávila Bus Station (10-minute walk to the city walls)
  • Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Bonus tip: Book your ticket online to avoid long lines, especially on weekends

train in madrid

Trains are comfortable, scenic, and usually faster than buses.

  • Take the Renfe Regional or Media Distancia
  • Start Station: Madrid-Chamartín Clara Campoamor
  • Destination station: Ávila Train Station (15-minute walk to the city center)
  • Travel time: 1.5-2 hours
  • Bonus tip: Media Distancia trains are quicker, so check their schedule before booking

Family driving through scenic countryside towards a travel destination.

Drive at your own pace, make stops along the way, and avoid rigid public transport schedules.

  • Route: A-6 and AP-51 highways
  • Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Bonus tip: Free parking is tricky near the old town. Head to Parking El Rastro for a convenient, safe and budget-friendly spot close to the walls

Why choose planned day trips to Avila

Exploring a historic city without knowing the language can feel like trying to read a map upside down. A planned day trip handles all the details, so you can focus on all the fun stuff in Avila, like walking along the legendary walls and discovering hidden plazas. Here’s why it’s the most stress-free way to go:

Visitors observing the historic Avila Wall on a guided tour from Madrid.
  • Skip the travel headaches: Don’t struggle with train schedules, bus transfers, or figuring out how to reach the old town from the station. A comfy AC coach picks you up from central Madrid and drops you right in the heart of Ávila.
  • See the best of Ávila without the guesswork: These tours are planned to hit all the highlights, from the city walls and cathedral to the birthplace of St. Teresa. No wasted time, just a smooth, well-paced itinerary.
  • Get the inside scoop from a local guide: Ávila’s history is packed with stories, and a guide brings them to life. You’ll hear about knights, saints, and centuries-old traditions, and they’ll help with translating signboards and inscriptions.
  • One-click for everything: No need to juggle train tickets, bus schedules, or separate reservations. Pick your day trip, book it in seconds, and just like that, you’re all set for a day of medieval magic.
  • Customize your tour: Whether you want to pair Ávila with Segovia, Salamanca, or Toledo, there’s an option for you. Choose what fits your style and get ready to explore!

Best time to visit Avila

Peak season (April-June, September-October): This is when Ávila shines. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the golden-hued city walls look even more magical in the soft sunlight. Spring brings blooming flowers around the old town, while fall adds a cozy touch with cooler breezes. Tourists flock here for perfect sightseeing weather, so expect lively streets and plenty of café-hopping opportunities.

Low season (November-March, July-August): Winter turns Ávila into a festive wonderland, with Christmas lights twinkling along the medieval streets and fewer crowds at its famous sights. It can get chilly, but that just makes a warm plate of judías del Barco (Ávila’s famous bean stew) even more satisfying. On the flip side, summer can be hot and quiet; locals escape to cooler spots, leaving you with emptier streets but an intense midday sun. If you visit in August, stick to morning and evening strolls to dodge the heat.

Want the best balance? Late spring or early autumn gives you the perfect mix of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for walking the walls, exploring at your own pace, and enjoying a long, lazy meal in a sun-dappled plaza.

Things to do near Avila

Plaza Mayor de Salamanca bustling with people

Salamanca

University City | UNESCO World Heritage | Gothic Rennaisance

↔ 109km from Avila

⏳1 hour from Avila

Salamanca, known as the "Golden City" for its sandstone buildings, is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its rich history, stunning Plaza Mayor, and grand cathedrals make it a cultural and architectural gem of Spain.


Toledo cityscape with Alcázar and Tagus River in view.
Segovia Cathedral with intricate Gothic architecture in Segovia, Spain.
El Escorial monastery in Madrid with tourists exploring the historic architecture.

Tips to make the most of your Avila day trip

  • Spain uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand for smaller purchases or taxis is always handy.
  • Avila is compact, but those charming cobbled streets are not easy to walk on with high heels or flip-flops. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
  • The city sits over 1,100 meters above sea level, so it can be chilly even in summer. A light jacket is always a good idea.
  • Siestas (afternoon naps) are a common practice in Spain. Many shops and attractions close between 2pm and 5pm, so plan meals and shopping accordingly.
  • For some day trips, guests can choose a preferred language, but tours may be bilingual based on group size. If the bus isn’t full, one guide will likely lead in both English and Spanish. Either way, you won’t miss a thing—the bilingual guides ensure a smooth and informative experience for everyone!
  • Even though a bilingual tour guide will accompany you, we recommend downloading a translation app!
  • Don’t leave without trying chuletón de Ávila (massive T-bone steak) and yemas de Santa Teresa (sweet egg yolk treats). They’re local legends.
  • The best views of Ávila’s golden-lit walls are at dusk from Los Cuatro Postes. Time your visit right for an unforgettable photo.
  • Bring only essentials in a small bag or backpack to keep your load light and your hands-free for exploration.

Frequently asked questions about Segovia day trips from Madrid

Can I combine a visit to Ávila and Segovia in a single-day trip from Madrid?

Yes, combining both cities in a single day is feasible and popular among travelers. This day trip offers a full-day excursion from Madrid that covers both Ávila and Segovia, plus it includes transportation and guided visits to major landmarks.

Is Ávila suitable for a self-guided day trip?

Absolutely! Ávila's compact layout and well-marked attractions make it ideal for self-guided exploration. However, joining a guided tour can enrich your experience with historical context and local anecdotes.

What are the best vegetarian options in Ávila?

While Ávila is famous for its meat-heavy cuisine (especially Chuletón de Ávila), vegetarians will still find plenty of delicious options like Judías del Barco (a rich white bean stew), Pisto (Spain’s version of ratatouille, made with tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and onions), and Queso de Ávila (local cheese from the region, served with honey or jam).

Do I need to tip in Ávila?

Tipping in Spain is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service. Leave 5–10% tip in restaurants if you enjoyed good service and you can just round up your fare for taxis.

Are there any local festivals I should know about?
  • Fiestas de Santa Teresa (October 15): Celebrating Ávila’s most famous saint with parades and cultural events.
  • Medieval Market (September): The town transforms into a medieval fair with costumes, performances, and market stalls.