Segovia, Spain

Today we are headed to Segovia, Spain! 

Located 60 miles northwest of Madrid, Segovia is just a short 30 minute high-speed train ride away, departing from Chamartin Station. For our trip we left Chamartin  at 10:15am and returned at 6:20p. Once you reach Segovia, the city is a quick bus or taxi ride away. When I was originally planning this day trip, I came across several blogs that mentioned the rush for the buses and taxi was ‘nuts’ and if you weren’t quick enough, you’d have to wait a while for another bus or taxi. There was a rush of people, as the majority of passengers were also headed to Segovia but we did not have any trouble securing a taxi. If you’re trying to save a few dollars, opt for the bus. I believe the bus cost around 2 Euros.

The biggest draw to Segovia is the ancient Roman aqueduct. At it tallest point, it reaches nearly 100 feet! The aqueduct originates at the Frio River, roughly 9 miles away (I may be off a little on this number). It is an incredibly immaculate structure dating back to the 1st century and it’s easy to see why it draws so many visitors.

While the aqueduct is front and center when you hop out of the bus or taxi, there are many other beautiful sites to take in. If you head up the stairs behind the Tourist Office, you can start a leisurely stroll to the Alcazar. We took our time and wandered through the streets. The first major site we came upon was the Segovia Cathedral, located in the Plaza Mayor. There was a small market set up and dad grabbed an apple for himself while we looked around. 

After looking around the square and taking in the beautiful facade of the cathedral, we continued our stroll toward the Alcazar. As we headed down the back streets, it came into view. Originally a Roman fort, it acted as a key fortress in defending the kingdom. Very little remains from the original structure and has been rebuilt several times. The Alcazar has served many purposes: fortress, palace, prison to name a few. We didn’t go in. I remember the line for tickets being long but honestly, I’m just impatient. It’s something I’ve got to work on!

After wandering around outside the Alcazar, we zigzagged through back streets, took photos and made our way back to the aqueduct. We got some ice cream, people watched then enjoyed a few beers! Since we didn’t do any tours, we probably could have gotten an earlier train back to Madrid. Another option would have been to stay a little later or overnight. I’m sure the atmosphere changes when most of the tourists are gone. Regardless of how you see it, if you’re ever in the area, go see Segovia. The aqueduct alone is reason enough.