Sometimes Madrid gets loud. Busy. A little nonstop. So when you start craving a change of pace—but don’t want to go far—Segovia quietly raises its hand and says, “Hey, come here.” Just over an hour from Madrid, this small historic city feels like stepping into a different century. Roman ruins, medieval castles, cobblestone streets… it’s the kind of place that makes you slow your steps without even trying.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to spend a perfect day in Segovia, what to see, why it’s worth the trip, and how it feels to experience this Spanish gem for yourself. If you’re planning a day trip from Madrid, this one’s a no-brainer.
First Impressions: The Aqueduct of Segovia
You don’t really arrive in Segovia—you’re greeted by it. And that greeting comes in the form of the Roman Aqueduct of Segovia, towering above you like it’s casually showing off. Built without mortar (yes, really), this ancient structure has been standing strong for nearly 2,000 years.
Standing underneath those massive arches felt surreal. You look up, tilt your head back, and suddenly you’re very aware of how small you are—and how brilliant Roman engineering was. We walked along its length, snapping photos, pausing often, just taking it all in. It’s not just a landmark; it’s the heartbeat of the city.
The Cathedral of Segovia: Quiet, Grand, and Unexpected
From there, we wandered toward the Cathedral of Segovia, known as the Lady of Cathedrals. And honestly? The name fits. Its elegant Gothic spires dominate the skyline, but the inside is where it really gets you.
It was calm, almost hushed. Sunlight filtered through stained glass, and the cloisters felt like a little escape from the world. Our guide’s stories made the history come alive—how the cathedral evolved over time, blending Gothic and Renaissance influences. You could feel the centuries layered into every corner.
The Alcázar of Segovia: Straight Out of a Fairytale
And then… the Alcázar of Segovia. This was the moment everyone waits for.
Perched on a rocky hilltop, the castle looks like it was pulled straight from a storybook—and yes, it famously inspired Disney castles. Walking through its halls, with their ornate ceilings and suits of armor, felt like time travel. Every room had a story. Every corner begged you to stop and stare.
The real reward, though, was climbing the tower. The views over Segovia were incredible—red rooftops, rolling hills, and that peaceful, medieval feel you don’t get in many places anymore.
Why Segovia Is Worth the Trip
What really tied the day together was our guide, who sprinkled history with legends, humor, and little local details that made Segovia feel alive. By the end of the day, it felt like we hadn’t just visited Segovia—we understood it.
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get better, we hopped back on the bus and headed to Ávila, another stunning walled city nearby. But that’s a story for another post.
If you’re looking for the perfect Madrid day trip, Segovia checks all the boxes: history, architecture, walkability, and that magical feeling you get when a place surprises you in the best way. You’ll come back with a full camera, tired feet, and a heart that’s already planning a return trip.
Travels by Cheryl Anne 