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Nestled in the heart of Castile y León just 30 minutes from Madrid, Segovia is a city that displays Spain’s rich history, architecture, and culture all in one place. With its UNESCO World Heritage status, Segovia offers visitors a place where Roman engineering meets medieval charm.
I had a feeling I’d love Segovia the moment my taxi squeezed through the arch into the old city. From there, the streets got narrower and narrower until we were mere inches from the centuries-old buildings.
Segovia feels like it’s wrapping you in a warm, slightly crumbly, but charming hug. Unlike some of the glossier towns near Madrid, Segovia is refreshingly unpolished and feels authentic, without trying too hard to impress tourists- a big plus in my book.
But Segovia isn’t just about cozying up with a delicious meal or wandering the tiny streets- it has two show-stopping icons: the Aqueduct and the Alcázar.
First, let’s talk aqueducts. I didn’t think I’d be that excited by a bunch of stones, but this marvel completely captivated me. The scale of it is mind-boggling, and I found myself in awe over its sheer size. A trip to Segovia is worth it just for that.
Then there’s the Alcázar. I mean, who doesn’t want to visit a castle that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fairy tale? This is your chance to live out your inner Rapunzel dreams- or at least snap some great photos.
Segovia is equal parts history lesson, foodie haven, and fairy-tale setting. Honestly, it’s impossible not to fall for its charm.
WHAT TO DO IN SEGOVIA
The Alcázar
The Alcázar of Segovia is one of Spain’s most iconic castles. Perched on a rocky crag at the confluence of two rivers (yes, there’s a moat!), the castle is renowned for its fairy-tale appearance. It’s even said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
The reason everything looks so well-maintained is that the entire site burned down in the late 1800s. What stands today is a (very beautiful) reproduction. That said, it’s absolutely worth a visit, especially for the stunning ceilings in the Pineapple Room, the intricate Mudejar carvings in the Throne Room, and the impressive Hall of Kings.
For an unforgettable view, head out to the terrace, which overlooks the picturesque countryside and the charming castle garden. Don’t miss climbing the Torre de Juan II—it’s a bit of a hike, but the 360° panoramic view from the top is well worth the effort.
You can purchase your tickets for the Alcázar at the Casa de la Química (House of Chemistry), located just inside the gates and right next to the entrance.
The City Wall
The Muralla de Segovia (city wall) is an example of medieval fortification that was first begun during the Moorish period in the 11th century. Encircling the old town, the wall stretches about 1.5 miles and is offers a walking route for visitors to explore its history and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.
A peaceful place to stop and take a breather is the Garden of the Poets (Jardín de los Poetas). +me
Roman Aqueduct
Built in the 1st century by the Romans and used up until almost the 20th, the aqueduct is a marvel. Its 166 arches rise almost 100 feet high and stretch almost 10 miles with the most impressive part in the middle of town.
Take the stairs from the Tourist Information up to the top for a gorgeous view. Another interesting view of it is from the devil statue on the road just north of it. No matter your POV, it is truly an incredible feat of engineering.
Cathedral (Catedral de Segovia)
The last Gothic cathedral in Spain is decorated by sculptures of Segovia’s saints as well as beautiful art, stained glass, and tapestries. Audio guides, available in 8 languages, will take you through the church and tower as well as the bell-ringer’s house.
Plaza Mayor
This quaint and fairly quiet plaza lies halfway between the Aqueduct and the Alcázar so it’s a great place to spend some time. The Cathedral looks out over this shady little plaza lined with restaurants and shops. At the other end is the theatre (Teatro Juan Bravo) with music, theatre, and dance performances. Line up early if you want a ticket!
The plaza is lined with cafes and restaurants, where visitors can sit and enjoy a coffee or a traditional Segovian dish while people-watching. The area is particularly lively in the evenings, when the square is illuminated, and the atmosphere is magical.
Casa de Los Picos
Similar to the Casa de las Conchas in Salamanca being covered in shells, this building is covered in diamond shaped stones. It currently houses the headquarters of the Segovia School of Art and Design but just checking out the exterior is interesting.
There’s a nice view over the city from the Mirador de la Canalega across the road and Iglesia de San Martín with its Mudejar tower is just up the road.
Jewish Quarter
The Puerto de San Andrés, I now know, is the arch that my taxi drove through and is the entry point to the Jewish Quarter. This neighborhood once served as the heart of Segovia’s Jewish community during the Middle Ages.
Take a stroll around the narrow, winding streets and admire the ancient buildings in the typical Mudejar style (a blend of Islamic and Christian) or take in the view over the countryside (and castle) from the city wall.
Be sure to stop by the Casa del Sol to learn about Segovia’s history.
Take a Hike
There are (at least) two interesting places outside the town that are walking distance. The 12-sided Iglesia Vera Cruz is about 20-minute walk from the Alcazar and is where the Knights Templar held secret meetings.
Or head over to the Monasterio de Santa María del Parral which is about the same distance. It can be visited only with a guide (in Spanish) and only at certain times so be sure to check before you head over there. If you want to see inside, knock on the door and someone will give you a little tour.
Hot Air Balloon
A magical way to see this area is from above in a hot air balloon. There are trips that offer lunch and even pickups from other cities nearby. It would be an experience to remember! +GYG
Take a look at hot air balloon trips in Segovia on Get Your Guide!
Day Trips from Segovia
If you want to see palaces, check out La Granja Palace (20 minute drive), the Riofrío Palace (15 minutes), or Castillo de Coca (45 minutes)
The bustling city of Madrid is just a 30-minute train ride away and a big transportation hub.
The lively university town of Salamanca is about 2 hours from Segovia.
HOTELS IN SEGOVIA
Pretty much anywhere you stay in the walled city is fine because the town isn’t very big but I personally liked being right in the middle at Plaza Mayor. There are lots of places to eat nearby and people hanging out in the plaza which gave it a nice energy without being overrun with people.
🏨 For lots more hotel options at all different price points, check out Booking.com
Here are a few suggestions for hotels in Segovia:
Áurea Convento Capuchinos 5✩
This beautiful hotel by Plaza Mayor has a wellness center, gardens, Turkish bath, and a pool. It is in a former monastery so not only is it nice, it’s also convenient to everything.
Hotel Real Segovia 4✩
The sister hotel to the one where I stayed is between Plaza Mayor and the aqueduct on Plaza de las Sirenas. It has breakfast, a bar, a lounge, and some of the rooms have amazing views over the city.
Hotel Infanta Isabel 3✩
This is where I stayed and is a great option. It’s on the Plaza Mayor and they do have breakfast if you sign up in advance. Bracketed by the two most amazing sights with a main road running between them, you’re only about 10 minutes from both the Aqueduct and the Alcázar so I felt like this was the perfect location.
Exe Casa de Los Linajes 3✩
Offering rooms for guests with disabilities and a gluten free breakfast option in a building dating from the 16thcentury, this hotel is near the alcazar.
Hotel San Miguel 2✩
Just off the Plaza Mayor, this pretty hotel offers basic but clean rooms as well as a restaurant.
RESTAURANTS IN SEGOVIA
Segovia is known for its roast suckling pig, its giant white bean stew, and ponche- a delicious lemon sponge cake. I suggest you try them all. They also have these things called torreznos sold lots of places around town which are puffy crispy fried bacon strips that taste like a heart attack waiting to happen. Eat at your own risk but they are great for a snack.
Finding the best places to eat isn’t too hard. Just look for the places that are full of people. If a restaurant is empty during a mealtime, believe me, there’s a reason. Keep in mind that mealtimes in Spain are different from other countries. They take siesta seriously here- especially in the smaller towns- and if you want to eat lunch at noon, you’ll be outta luck.
If you want to plan ahead for some delicious food in Segovia, here are some suggestions:
La Concepción
My favorite meal was at this place on the Plaza Mayor. I had the Menu del Dia for 34€ which is more than I would normally spend but it was 100% worth every euro. Please go to this restaurant because it’s amazing.
To start, I had the Judiones de La Granja which is a white bean soup special to this area and it didn’t disappoint. The beans were so big that I almost had to eat them in two bites and were cooked perfectly- no mush at all. Then I tried the famous Cochinillo Asado (roast pig) and it was even more delicious with its crackly skin and tender meat and was served with potatoes and onions. To finish, I had the Tarta de Queso (cheesecake) and it was unlike cheesecake here in the US. A little lighter and absolutely delicious. I scraped the plate to get every last bite.
Jeyma
Located on Plaza Mayor, I went here for a drink and the people were so nice. I sat inside and ordered a Tinto de Verano and the guy asked if I wanted the premade version or his and of course I said his. He asked which pinxto (tapa) I wanted out of the case then kept sending over more because he said I looked hungry. The calamari tosta with aioli was my favorite and they were all free of course as they do in Spain.
Casa Duque
The people spilling out of this 125 year old restaurant after lunch and dinner kept saying this was the best meal they’ve had their whole time in Spain. I guess there’s a reason they’ve been around so long. Maybe it’ll be your best meal too.
If you want something a little more casual, they also have a tavern in the basement that you can find by following the road that runs behind the restaurant. Here you can find stews and tapas in a cozy atmosphere.
Restaurante José Maria
An upscale place serving traditional Segovia food in a lovely setting near Plaza Mayor. All allergens are listed so you can avoid whatever you might need to.
Mesón de Cándido
If you’re looking for a place near the aqueduct, check out this atmospheric restaurant serving traditional Segovia meals in a beautiful timbered building from the 1800s.
Restaurante San Miguel
I got there at 1:50 for lunch which seemed to confuse everyone and once I got downstairs to the dining room, I understood why- it was totally empty. But at 2pm on the dot, people started arriving for lunch. I was the dumb tourist that got there 10 minutes early, haha.
I got the Menu del Dia for 16€ and had Judías Verdes (green beans- with ham of course), Albondigas (meatballs) which came with fries, and a Tarta de Chocolate (chocolate cake) for dessert. It wasn’t the best meal I ate in Segovia, but it was good and pretty cheap.
Granier
Grab yourself a pastry or a café con leche at this chain. They even have oat milk and the option to take it to go should you need to (but don’t- just sit down and enjoy a little break. You deserve it!).
TRANSPORTATION IN SEGOVIA
Getting there
It is 30 minutes from Madrid to Segovia via train, 1 hour via car or bus.
Trains arrive into Segovia Guiomar you can take a 10 minute taxi (10€) to the center of town. The bus station is also about 10 minutes. Regional trains arrive into the Segovia station that’s a little closer in.
Getting around
It’s less than a mile from the Alcazar to the Aquaduct so walking can get you around unless you want to explore outside the old town.
QUESTIONS ABOUT SEGOVIA
What’s special about Segovia?
Both the Aqueduct and the walled city of Segovia are UNESCO World Heritage sights. The Alcazar is also rumored to be what inspired the design of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
Is Segovia safe?
It is absolutely safe and a perfect place for a solo trip in Spain. I was there on my own and felt completely fine the entire time.
Ready to plan your trip?
Here are my favorite travel websites to get you started.
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