Toledo: The Complete Guide

Toledo

Toledo is a city and municipality of Spain. Toledo is famous for being a “city of three cultures”. It is scarcely 70 kilometres from Madrid and connected by high-speed train in a journey of around half an hour. Its historic quarter –a UNESCO World Heritage Site– still preserves its original medieval layout, making it a fascinating place to visit. On a tour through its narrow, winding streets you will discover a series of incredible buildings, still very much alive both inside and out.

You get a better view of the ancient city as you enjoy local meals in one of the hotels across at the banks of Tagus River.

History of Toledo

The captivating history of Toledo stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of Roman occupation dating back to around 192 BC, when the city was known as Toletum. Remnants of this era, such as the ruins of the Roman circus, still stand proudly just beyond the city’s walls, serving as a tangible link to Toledo’s illustrious past.

Following the Roman period, Toledo experienced a succession of rulers, including the Visigoths and Muslims, each leaving their mark on the city’s cultural and architectural landscape. However, it was the pivotal moment of the Reconquest in 1085 AD that ushered in a new era for Toledo, as it returned to Christian rule under King Alfonso VI of Castile.

During the Middle Ages and beyond, Toledo flourished as a center of culture, religion, and learning, earning its reputation as the “City of Three Cultures” due to the harmonious coexistence of Christians, Muslims, and Jews. Its strategic location and rich heritage made it a coveted prize for successive rulers, including being designated as the capital of the Spanish Empire for several centuries.

The glory days of Toledo as Spain’s capital persisted until the mid-1500s, when King Philip II relocated the royal court to Madrid. Despite this shift, Toledo retained its significance as a cultural and historical hub, attracting artists, scholars, and travelers from far and wide.

Today, wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Toledo’s old town is like stepping back in time, with its charming cobbled pathways lined with centuries-old buildings and bustling markets. Amidst the hustle and bustle, iconic landmarks such as the magnificent 13th-century cathedral and the imposing Alcázar fortress, which traces its origins to Roman times, stand as enduring symbols of the city’s storied past.

While exploring Toledo, visitors are treated to a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and flavors, with historic sites, artisan workshops, and quaint cafes waiting to be discovered around every corner. Whether admiring architectural marvels, delving into the city’s rich history, or simply soaking in its vibrant atmosphere, Toledo offers an unforgettable journey through the annals of time.

Visiting Toledo for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Toledo on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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25 Best places to See in Toledo

This complete guide to Toledo not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Toledo and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Puente de Alcántara (Toledo)

Toledo Roman Bridge
The Puente de Alcántara is a Roman arch bridge in Toledo, Spain, spanning the Tagus River. The word Alcántara comes from Arabic القنطرة (al-qanţarah), which means “arch”. Located at the foot of the Castillo de San Servando, it was built by the Romans after they founded the city. In the Middle Ages it was one […]
Location: Puente de Alcántara, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 0.70km
Visiting Puente de Alcántara (Toledo)

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Plaza de Zocodover

Plaza De Zocodover
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luis Rogelio HM
The Plaza de Zocodover is a square of the city of Toledo, in the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha, Spain. It has been the hub of the city during most of its history, acting as its main square. A part of it was designed by Juan de Herrera during the reign of Philip II.Here horses, […]
Visiting Plaza de Zocodover

Click here to read our blog about Complete Toledo Travel Guide

Puerta de Bisagra

Puerta De Bisagra Toledo
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luis Rogelio HM
The Puerta de Bisagra (originally Bab al-Saqra, also called Puerta de Alfonso VI) is a city gate of Toledo, Spain. The structure was constructed in the 10th century, in the time of the Moorish Taifa of Toledo in Islamic Al-Andalus. It is also called ‘Bisagra Antigua’ to distinguish it from the Puerta de Bisagra Nueva […]
Location: Puerta de Bisagra C. Real del Arrabal, 26 45003 Toledo Spain | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Puerta de Bisagra

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Puerta del sol (Toledo)

Puerta Del Sol, Toledo Spain
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ursushoribilis
Puerta del Sol is a city gate of Toledo, Spain, built in the late 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller. The medallion above the arch of the gate depicts the ordination of the Visigothic Ildephonsus, Toledo’s patron saint. The name of the gate comes from the sun and the moon that were once painted on […]
Location: Puerta del Sol, Callejón San José, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Puerta del sol (Toledo)

Click here to read our blog about Exploring the Jewish Quarter of Toledo

Museo De Santa Cruz

Museo De Santa Cruz
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Turol Jones
The Museo de Santa Cruz or Museum of Santa Cruz is an art, archaeology and ethnographic museum located in the historic centre of the city of Toledo, Spain. It exhibits collections pertaining to the province of Toledo, including works painted by El Greco in the city of Toledo. The museum is housed in an architecturally […]
Location: Museo de Santa Cruz, Calle Miguel de Cervantes, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 0.90km
Visiting Museo De Santa Cruz

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz

Mezquita Cristo De La Luz De Toledo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ignasilm
The Mosque of Cristo de la Luz is a former mosque in Toledo, Spain. It is the one of the ten that existed in the city during the Moorish period. The edifice was then known as Mezquita Bab-al-Mardum, deriving its name from the city gate Bab al-Mardum. It is located near the Puerta del Sol, […]
Location: Ermita "Mezquita" del Cristo de la Luz C. Cristo de la Luz, 22 45002 Toledo Spain | Hours: 10am-2pm & 3.30-5.45pm Mon-Fri, 10am-5.45pm Sat & Sun | Price: adult/child €2.80/free | Distance: 1.00km
Visiting Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz

Explore Toledo yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

El Alcazar

Toledo Alcazar At Night
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Adrian.lifa
The Alcázar of Toledo is a stone fortification located in the highest part of Toledo, Spain. It is a large quadrangular building measuring 60 meters on a side, framed by four large towers 60 meters high, each crowned by the typical Madrid spire. Most of the city was rebuilt between 1939 and 1957 after the […]
Location: Alcázar de Toledo C. de la Union, s/n 45001 Toledo Spain | Hours: 10am-5pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/child €5/free, Sun free | Website | Distance: 1.10km
Visiting El Alcazar

Roman circus of Toledo

Toledo Ruinas Del Circo Romano
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Antonio.velez
The Roman circus of Toledo is an Ancient Roman circus site of Hispania, located in present-day Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. The circus at Toletum (Toledo) was built during the 1st century, during the mandate of the emperor Augustus or the emperor Tiberius. Possibly, its construction was included within the plan that the emperor undertook throughout […]
Location: Roman circus of Toledo, Av. de Carlos III, 9, 45004 Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.10km
Visiting Roman circus of Toledo

Cave of Hercules

Cueva De Hercules Toledo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Carlos Delgado
The Cueva de Hércules or Cave of Hercules is a subterranean vaulted space dating back to Roman times located in the alley of San Ginés (Spanish: Callejón San Ginés) in the city of Toledo, Spain. The cave is under a building located where the Church of San Ginés, Toledo stood until 1841. The structure was […]
Location: Cuevas de Hércules, Callejón San Ginés, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.10km
Visiting Cave of Hercules

Catedral de Toledo

Cathedral Of Toledo
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Michal Osmenda
The Primatial Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, otherwise known as Toledo Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church in Toledo, Spain. It is the seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Toledo. The cathedral of Toledo is one of the three 13th-century High Gothic cathedrals in Spain and is considered, in the opinion of some authorities, […]
| Hours: 10am-6.30pm Mon-Sat, 2-6.30pm Sun | Price: €10, incl Torre de las Campanas €12.50 | Website | Distance: 1.20km
Visiting Catedral de Toledo

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo

Catedral De Toledo
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Catedral de Toledo
Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo or Toledo Cathedral is built during the 13th century. The architecture is Gothic. This cathedral has a long and rich history which you can explore on your visit. The cathedral is highly decorated beautifully both inside and outside. You will have a wonderful and pleasant experience as you go […]
Location: Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo, Calle Cardenal Cisneros, Toledo, Spain | Hours: 10am-6.30pm Mon-Sat, 2-6.30pm Su | Price: €10, incl Torre de las Campanas €12.50 | Website | Distance: 1.20km
Visiting Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo

Termas Romanas

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
CC BY-SA 2.0 / amaianos
The Roman baths of Toledo or Roman thermae of Amador de los Ríos are ruins of Roman thermae located in the city of Toledo in Castile-La Mancha, Spain. The baths can be seen as part of the system of supplying clean water to the city (then known by the Latin name of Toletum). From the […]
Location: Termas Romanas, Plaza Amador de los Ríos, Toledo, Spain | Hours: 10am-2pm & 5-9pm Tue-Sat Jun-Sep, 10am-2pm & 4-8pm Tue-Sat Oct-May, 10am-2pm Sun year-round | Distance: 1.20km
Visiting Termas Romanas

Convento de Santo Domingo El Antiguo

Convento De Santo Domingo El Antiguo, Teledo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Yildori
The Monasterio de Santo Domingo de Silos (el Antiguo) or Monastery of Saint Dominic of Silos (the Old) is a Cistercian convent in Toledo, Spain. It is believed to have been founded in the 6th century. Its rebuilding after the Conquest of Toledo by King Alfonso VI of Leon and Castile is mentioned by the […]
Location: Convento de Santo Domingo El Antiguo, Plaza Santo Domingo Antiguo, Toledo, Spain | Hours: 11am-1.30pm & 4-7pm Mon-Sat, 4-7pm Sun | Price: adult/child €2.50/free | Distance: 1.30km
Visiting Convento de Santo Domingo El Antiguo

Iglesia de El Salvador, Toledo

Iglesia De El Salvador, Toledo
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luis Rogelio HM
The Iglesia de El Salvador is a church located in Toledo, Spain, completed in 1159. Despite its small size, it is a remarkable structure due to its historical significance. The church is the result of four successive constructions, each built on top of the previous one. It originated as a 9th-century Visigothic religious building, which […]
Location: Iglesia de El Salvador, Plaza el Salvador, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.40km
Visiting Iglesia de El Salvador, Toledo

Iglesia de Santo Tomé

Iglesia De Santo Tome Toledo
©
The Iglesia de Santo Tomé is a church located in the historical center of the city of Toledo (Spain), and was founded after the reconquest of this city by King Alfonso VI of León.[1] It appears quoted in the 12th century, as constructed on the site of an old mosque of the 11th century.[2] This […]
Location: Iglesia de Santo Tomé Pl. del Conde, 4 45002 Toledo Spain | Distance: 1.50km
Visiting Iglesia de Santo Tomé

Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca

Synagogue Of Santa Maria La Blanca
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Roy Lindman
The Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, also known as the Ibn Shoshan Synagogue, is a museum and former synagogue situated in Toledo, Spain. Its construction is dated to the late twelfth or early thirteenth century, and some believe it to be the oldest standing synagogue in Europe, although this claim is disputed and requires […]
Location: Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca, Calle de los Reyes Católicos, Toledo, Spain | Hours: 1 March – 15 October 10:00 – 18:45 * 16 October – 28 February 10:00 – 17:45 * | Price: Adults €4,00, Children €3,00 | Website | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca

Monasterio San Juan de Los Reyes

San Juan De Los Reyes Toledo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Choniron
The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes or the Monastery of Saint John of the Monarchs, is an Isabelline style Franciscan monastery in Toledo, in Castile-La Mancha, Spain, built by the Catholic Monarchs (1477–1504). This monastery was founded by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile to commemorate both the […]
Location: Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes, Calle de los Reyes Católicos, Toledo, Spain | Hours: 10am-6.45pm Mar-Oct, to 5.45pm Nov-Feb | Price: €3 | Website | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Monasterio San Juan de Los Reyes

Museo del Greco

Museo Del Greco
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Museo del Greco
The El Greco Museum is located in Toledo, Spain. It celebrates the mannerist painter El Greco (Domenikos Theotokopoulos, 1541–1614), who spent much of his life in Toledo, having been born in Fodele, Crete. This museum has an extensive collection of paintings by this artist of the Spanish Golden Age. Opened in 1911, the museum is […]
Location: El Greco Museum, Paseo Tránsito, s/n, 45002 Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain | Hours: 9.30am-7.30pm Tue-Sat Mar-Oct, to 6pm Nov-Feb, 10am-3pm Sun year-round | Price: adult/child €3/1.50, from 2pm Sat & all day Sun free | Website | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Museo del Greco

Synagogue of El Transito

Synagogue Of El Transito Toledo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Antonio.velez
The Sinagoga del Tránsito or Synagogue of El Tránsito is a historic synagogue, church, and Sephardic museum in Toledo, Spain. It was built as an annex of the palace of Samuel ha-Levi Abulafia, treasurer to King Peter of Castile, in 1357. The synagogue was converted into a church after the expulsion of the Jews from […]
Location: Sephardic Museum C. Samuel Levi, 2 45002 Toledo Spain | Hours: 9.30am-7.30pm Tue-Sat Mar-Oct, to 6pm Tue-Sat Nov-Feb, 10am-3pm Sun year-round | Price: adult/child €3/1.50, after 2pm Sat & all day Sun free | Website | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Synagogue of El Transito

Baños del Ángel

Baños Del Angel
© Callejón del Ángel
The Baños del Ángel or Baños de Zeid are an Islamic baths located in the city of Toledo, in Castile-La Mancha, Spain. These are undoubtedly one of the best preserved among the eight that still maintain recognizable structures within the Historic Quarter of Toledo. The restored room corresponds to the warm and, unlike other bathrooms, […]
Location: Baños Árabes del Ángel, Calle del Ángel, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Baños del Ángel

Puerta Del Cambrón

Puerta Del Cambron, A City Gate Of Toledo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / rheins
The Puerta del Cambrón is a gate located in the west sector of the Spanish city of Toledo, in Castile-La Mancha. Also called previously “Gate of the Jews” or “Gate of Saint Leocadia”, has been speculated The possibility that the name of the gate, del Cambrón, had its origin in the growth of a thorn […]
Location: Puerta Del Cambrón, Puerta del Cambrón, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Puerta Del Cambrón

Casa del Judío, Toledo

Casa Del Judío, Toledo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rafael Tello
The Jewish House (Casa del Judío) is a significant historical site located in the heart of Toledo’s Jewish quarter in Castile-La Mancha, Spain. Constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries, this building holds special interest due to its unique features. The courtyard of the Jewish House is adorned with intricate yeserias, or carved plasterwork, providing […]
Location: Casa del Judío, Travesía Judería, c, Spain | Website | Distance: 1.60km
Visiting Casa del Judío, Toledo

Baños de Tenerías

Espana Toledo Bano Arabe
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Antonio.velez
The Baños de Tenerías were a public bath in Toledo, Castile-La Mancha. The structure has been dated to the beginning of the 11th century,[1] when Toledo was under Islamic rule, and formed one of the six Arab baths in the city. The Spanish name Tenerías refers to the baths being located in the leather-working district […]
Location: Restos Arqueológico Baños Árabes de Tenerías, Calle Carreras San Sebastián, Toledo, Spain | Distance: 1.70km
Visiting Baños de Tenerías

Puente de San Martín (Toledo)

El Puente De San Martin Toledo Espana
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Dan Vaquerizo Molina
The Puente de San Martín or St Martin’s Bridge is a medieval bridge across the river Tagus in Toledo, Spain. The Puente de San Martín features five arches, with the largest in the middle having a span of 40 meters. Only very few bridges in the world were that long at the time of its […]
Location: San Martin's Bridge Bajada San Martín 45004 Toledo Spain | Distance: 1.90km
Visiting Puente de San Martín (Toledo)

Mirador del Valle

Toledo From Mirador Del Valle
For the best photographs of Toledo you need to cross over the river to the hill opposite. Both Mirador Toledo and Mirador Del Valle, are great spots, they are about 50 metres apart so it doesn’t matter which you head for. If you don’t fancy the hike try the tourist train to get there.
Location: Mirador del Valle Ctra. Circunvalación, s/n 45004 Toledo Spain | Distance: 1.90km
Visiting Mirador del Valle

Best Time to Visit Toledo

The best time to visit Toledo, Spain, largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a delightful time to visit Toledo, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The weather is comfortably warm, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic streets, visiting its many churches and museums, and enjoying outdoor activities such as walking tours and picnics in the parks. Additionally, spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Toledo, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities such as sightseeing, visiting outdoor cafes and restaurants, and attending cultural events and festivals. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds, especially in popular tourist areas. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
  3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Toledo, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The weather remains pleasant, allowing you to continue enjoying outdoor activities such as exploring the city’s historic sites, hiking in the nearby countryside, and sampling local cuisine at outdoor cafes. Additionally, autumn offers opportunities to experience cultural events and festivals celebrating Spanish traditions and harvest season.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest time to visit Toledo, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While the weather may not be suitable for outdoor activities like picnics or hiking, it’s an excellent time to explore indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic sites. Additionally, winter offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s festive atmosphere, with Christmas markets, holiday decorations, and traditional Spanish celebrations.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Toledo depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Whether you prefer the mild temperatures of spring and autumn, the vibrant energy of summer, or the peaceful ambiance of winter, Toledo offers something for every traveler throughout the year.

Average Temperatures in Toledo

  • January 13°C 4
  • February 16°C 4
  • March 20°C 6
  • April 26°C 6
  • May 28°C 4
  • June 34°C 2
  • July 39°C 1
  • August 37°C 1
  • September 31°C 5
  • October 26°C 6
  • November 18°C 7
  • December 15°C 6

Festivals held in Toledo

Easter week in Toledo

Easter week in Toledo

During the Easter week celebrations in Toledo, the Easter brotherhoods display remarkable skill as they navigate their statues through the city’s narrow streets. The processions on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are particularly solemn and noteworthy.

Corpus Christi Festival Toledo

Corpus Christi Festival Toledo

Toledo comes alive during the grand festival of Corpus Christi in June, adorning its streets with splendour. This ancient and significant celebration, dating back to the 15th century, holds tremendous importance for the city.

How to get to Toledo

Toledo, Spain, is a historic city that once served as the capital of the Spanish Empire. It is located in central Spain, just 70 kilometers south of Madrid, making it easily accessible for visitors. Here’s how to get there:

By Train

One of the quickest and most convenient ways to reach Toledo is by train from Madrid. High-speed trains run frequently from Madrid’s Atocha Station to Toledo. The journey takes about 30 minutes, making it an ideal day trip. Trains are comfortable, and tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the station.

By Bus

Buses from Madrid to Toledo are a budget-friendly option. Buses depart from the Plaza Elíptica bus station in Madrid and the journey takes about an hour. The frequency of buses makes it easy to find a time that suits your schedule.

By Car

Driving to Toledo from Madrid is straightforward. The journey takes about an hour via the A-42 highway. This option provides flexibility to explore at your own pace and perhaps visit other nearby sites. Parking can be found outside the old city walls, as the historic center is mostly pedestrianized.

Guided Tours

Many visitors choose to visit Toledo on a guided tour, especially if they are short on time or prefer not to organize transport themselves. Tours often include transport from Madrid and a guided walk around the city’s major sights, providing a convenient and informative way to experience Toledo.

Arrival in Toledo

Once in Toledo, most of the historical attractions are within walking distance. The city is known for its medieval architecture, including the stunning Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar, and numerous synagogues and mosques reflecting its diverse historical population. Walking through the narrow streets allows you to appreciate the blend of Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Toledo’s close proximity to Madrid and excellent transport links make it an easy and worthwhile addition to any travel itinerary in Spain.

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