Toledo is unquestionably one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Its dense historical heart is packed with horseshoe-arched mosques, Sephardic synagogues, and one of Spain’s finest Gothic churches.
You are searching for amazing activities and the best landmarks to visit in Toledo? Search no further than this 45 Best & Unique Things To Do In Toledo, a perfect balance between secret spots, majestic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
The best day trip from Madrid is Toledo. That’s a fact! Although in a day you can explore many beautiful landmarks, definitely you will need more than one day to visit Spain’s best-preserved old town.
Located in the central Castilla-La Mancha region, Toledo is home to the country’s second-biggest church among the best UNESCO-listed medieval sites. The old town is one of the most wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, a haven for any history lovers.
Toledo has been influenced by three civilizations due to its rich history: Christians, Muslims, and Jews. This makes it a really unique city, with many stunning monuments to discover.
While there are endless things to do in Toledo, this guide narrows down the absolute epic and the unmissable ones. Whether you’re on a weekend getaway or you’re planning an entire trip to Toledo there are few unmissable landmarks to see.
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Iconic Sights in Toledo
Unlike a lot of places, Toledo is still very much a medieval city that has been perfectly preserved and maintained over the centuries with a very long list of iconic sights to visit. So long, in fact, that it would take days to see all of them, and as a consequence, there are a few unmissable things you should do and see especially if this is your first time here!
El Alcazar
The Alcazar of Toledo is an old fortress located in the highest part of Toledo, Spain. The building itself, as well as the main patio and stairs, are very impressive. It’s a must-visit just for the stunning city views from the top balcony while in Toledo.
Plaza Zocodover
Plaza Zocodover is the heart of Toledo, a beautiful location that connects many of the main sites in Toledo. The square is also beautiful at night when the surrounding buildings are all lit up.
Mirador del Valle
No visit to Toledo is complete without the spectacular view from Mirador de Valle. The classic panoramic view of Toledo’s pain with river Tagus in the foreground is just unbelievable!
Puente de Alcantara
Considered the most beautiful historical bridge in Toledo, Puente de Alcantara is also a great place for some of the most beautiful pictures.
Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is just one of six beautiful medieval city gates and another must-visit sight in Toledo.
Puente de San Martin
Puente de San Martin is a great place to go and enjoy magnificent views from here. For a bit of adventure, experience the bridge by riding the zip line that goes from one side of the river to the other. Undoubtedly a place worth visiting when traveling to Toledo.
Castle of San Servando
The castle of San Servando is a medieval monastery and a spectacular place to enjoy some hours in Toledo.
Old Town
You definitely must take a stroll along the old city. Toledo’s Old Town is filled with incredible tourist attractions, from impressive historical and cultural sights, imposing city walls and gates, to centuries-old churches, magnificent museums and monasteries. Besides its astonishing array of artistic, architectural, and historical treasures, the Old Town also boasts countless cozy cafes, traditional restaurants, and artisanal shops.
History in Toledo
Know as the “City of the Three Cultures” due to the blend of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influence and also the “Imperial City” because it was where the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V held his court, Toledo is definitely one of the best destinations for history lovers
Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes
Located in the heart of Toledo’s Jewish Quarter, the Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes is really hard to be missed. The structure is exquisitely ornamented both inside and out. For a fantastic view of the monastery and surrounding region, climb to the Plaza Virgen de la Gracia.
Catedral Primada
Catedral Primada, Toledo’s most iconic cathedral, is one of the most impressive monuments in the ancient town center. The structure has a gallery that displays paintings by El Greco, Goya, Velazquez, and many more well-known painters. Climb the 44-meter-tall Catedral Primada tower and take in the incredible city views from the summit.
Monasterio de Santa Clara la Real
The Monasterio de Santa Clara la Real is a place filled with a lot of history, exquisitely adorned with paintings by well-known Spanish painters. The patio is the oldest component of the monastery, and it offers even more spectacular views of Toledo.
Iglesia de San Ildefonso
The magnificent site of Toledo, Iglesia de San Ildefonso offers the greatest perspective of Toledo’s ancient center. The church itself is beautiful in the manner that practically all European churches are, but check out the vista!
Iglesia de Santo Tomé
If you are an art lover looking for a masterpiece of one of the most prominent Spanish painters then you must visit Iglesia de Santo Tomé. The chapel itself is unremarkable, but El Greco’s painting is one of Toledo’s must-sees.
Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal
The Iglesia de Santiago Arrabal in Toledo is one of the numerous tourist attractions you must see in the city. The structure dates from approximately 1245 AD and has many of the original elements associated with the so-called Mudéjar architectural style.
Be impressed by Real Colegio de Doncellas
There are so many churches to see in Toledo, but none have an interior quite like Real Colegio de Doncellas Nobles with the front part entirely decorated with gold.
Traditions and Culture in Toledo
Whether you want to simply wander around or immerse yourself in the local culture, you can’t leave these cultural sites off your schedule. Toledo has been influenced by three civilizations due to its rich history: Christians, Muslims, and Jews which makes it a really unique city, with many stunning monuments to discover.
Mezquita Cristo de la Luz
Located inside the ancient medina, the square-shaped mosque is still in nearly the same condition as when it was built, which makes it definitely unique.
El Greco Museum
The El Greco Museum is dedicated to the iconic El Greco’s late Renaissance work. Aside from El Greco paintings, the museum also houses works by other Spanish artists, as well as furniture and ceramics.
Hospital de Tavera
The Hospital de San Juan Bautista in Toledo is one of the city’s most notable Renaissance-style structures. Now, converted into a museum with pretty impressive paintings, this site is available to the public.
Day Trips in Toledo
The beauty of Toledo is renowned, and no amount of time spent here will ever be enough. If you can pull yourself away from the city, there are several fantastic day excursions you can take, whether you prefer pretty small towns or national parks!
Aranjuez
Aranjuez, a picturesque town that was formerly home to a royal summer palace, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with dreamy gardens, stately architecture, and beautiful green fields, making it a perfect scenic drive from Toledo.
Consuegra
This town has been locally famous since the 16th century for its windmills and Cervantes’ writings. Also known for being the backdrop for a famous scene in Don Quixote, the town includes an amazing castle and a town hall in the Renaissance style.
Cabañeros National Park
If you want to change the view immerse in the nature at Parque Nacional de Cabaeros! It’s a wide-open landscape with mesmerizing sunsets, also ideal for trekking.
Shopping in Toledo
Using my philosophy once again: no vacation without shopping! Just a bit! Shopping is an essential part of every vacation, whether you wish to buy souvenirs, presents, or local handmade crafts.
Visit some shops in the Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter in Toledo is home to a two-story building with a small watch tower on top, an excellent place for shopping while wandering around. Also, you should stop at any of the restaurants, and taste some of Toledo’s eateries!
Buy some treats
All over the city, you will find plenty of places to buy delicious treats, taste the local cuisine or dive into a large list of souvenirs.
Shopping in Toledo
The swordsmiths of Toledo were known for the excellence of their weaponry during the Crusades, and the same high level is maintained by Artesana Morales. If you are looking for great kitchen cutlery this is a excellent choice for long-lasting knives. Toledo was also known for the Moorish art of inlaying gold, copper, or silver so the city is teeming with souvenir stores selling damascene jewelry.
Food and Wine in Toledo
If you want to discover Toledo’s secrets then you definitely must explore the traditional dishes. Diving into the history, culture, ingredients, and dishes will let you know what makes Spanish cuisine so special.
Taste the Local Food
While touring Toledo, you should definitely try the local cuisine, after all, Toledo was named Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy in 2016! Taste famous local dishes, such as the mazapan de toledo, a traditional sweet pastry, or Carcamusas, a warm bar snack.
Churros and hot chocolate
Experience more of the local cuisine in a relaxed environment. Just in front of the northern entrance of Toledo, you’ll find Jardines de la Vega, one of the best places to buy food & drinks, such as granizado de limon (lemon slush), hot chocolate, and churros while enjoying the peaceful vibe!
Find some hidden gems in Toledo
Toledo is full of hidden gems where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. The main streets surrounding Plaza de Zocodover are filled with quaint cafes and restaurants, but if you veer off these streets you’ll find little hidden corners where there are plenty of places to sit and relax.
Have a big breakfast at a local Cafetería
Breakfast in Toledo is spectacular! Try 2 sunny-side-up eggs, a bun, bacon, tomato spread, fruits in a bowl, yogurt bowl, cornflakes dry in a bowl, and a glass of orange juice. With so many great locations to choose from, especially close to Plaza de Zocodover, you’ll be blown away by their breakfast options.
Relax in Toledo
No trip to Toledo is complete without exploring the city in a peaceful and relaxed vibe while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Museo de Santa Cruz
Talking about relaxing spots, then definitely Museo de Santa Cruz is worth a visit for the building itself, with a gorgeous facade and art displayed inside, but also for the nice patio.
Convento de Santo Domingo el Antiguo
The Convento de Santo Domingo el Antiguo is another fascinating medieval building to spend a great time in. While it truly grabs your attention as you walk past it, the interior is what makes this such a special site.
Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca
As I said, Toledo is often called the city of the Three Cultures. So, visiting one of the many synagogues must be added to the list of things to do. Easily the most beautiful and by far the oldest, the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca is Toledo’s third most visited historic monument.
Synagogue of El Tránsito
Synagogue of El Tránsito is another stunning site you don’t want to miss while in Toledo. The Sephardic Museum inside tells you all about Spain’s Jewish history.
Iglesia de los Jesuitas
Looking for another spot with a great view over Toledo? Then you need to visit Iglesia de los Jesuitas, an absolutely stunning, site, both outside and inside. Here definitely climbing the Twin Tower bell is what really makes it more special.
Walk along the trail below Puente de Alcántara
One thing is for sure, Toledo isn’t short on breathtaking viewpoints! Many options are within the historic center, overlooking the rest of the city and the surrounding landscape, but there are also plenty of spectacular places outside the city and Puente de Alcántara is one of them.
Top Fun Activities in Toledo
Fun activities may not be one of your primary reasons for visiting Toledo, but there are lots of things to do to have a good time, and you won’t want to miss this out!
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Toledo
Enjoying a bit of adventure while exploring the medieval myriad of Toledo on a hot-air balloon ride is a great way to create lifetime memories and with this trip, you will definitely have this chance.
Cuevas de Hércules
There are things happening underground in Toledo so for another fun on this list of things to do you must visit Cuevas de Hercules. Although not really a cave, more of an underground water cistern dating from Roman days, is a great way to spend some hours admiring this remnant of ancient times.
Paseo del Miradero
Looking for more Toledo sights? Then head straight to Puente del Alcantara and climb up the stairs to reach Paseo del Miradero to have a nice view of the surroundings.
Puerta de Bisagra
The main gate of Toledo since 1559, The Puerta de Bisagra Nueva it’s a massive gate, with the coat of arms of Emperor Charles V clearly visible on the front.
Mirador del Azor
The Mirador del Azor is also an underrated spot in Toledo. Located right next to the Puerta del Sol, it offers a spectacular view and definitely a great place for those looking for great Instagramable spots.
Termas Romanas
After Cuevas de Hércules, we’ll go down again to visit the Termas Romanas where you can find remains of ancient Roman baths and also learn more about the Roman history of Toledo.
Circo Romano
Looking for more Roman ruins to explore? The Circo Romano, or Roman Circus is the place you want to go next. I guess you have noticed by now that Toledo is an old Roman city, so you have plenty of Roman ruins to visit here.
Casino de Toledo
Time to change the view and try your luck! This one is a lot different from the other items in this guide, but it’s definitely on top of the list of fun things to do in Toledo. It’s also a good place if you’re looking for late-night activities.
Things to Do at Night in Toledo
There are very few cities that lend themselves to telling as many stories related to ghosts, apparitions, and enchanted places as Toledo. If you want to make the most out of your trip, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Dive into clubbing atmosphere
The Alfileritos Street area, very close to Zocodover is full of bars and pubs with a lot of atmosphere on weekends and a great place to enjoy a night out.
Walk around the historic streets of Toledo
Puerta del Sol, The Gate of the Sun is one of the best locations to go to at night in Toledo. There are plenty of guided tours offering amazing walking tours where you can explore the most spectacular stories of the city. Also, take some time to walk around its lesser-known historic streets.
Watch the sunset from the other side of Puente de San Martín
Sunset view from across the river with the medieval bridge on the right and the old town higher up on a hill is a memorable experience you must try while in Toledo.
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