Traveling from Madrid

Trips

 

Chances are that you came to Spain not only to teach but to travel around Europe. So here are our list of places you must visit both in Spain and around Europe.

 

Day trips –

Around Madrid there are lots of amazing places to visit which you can do within a day. Here are some of our favourite day trips.

Salamanca

Salamanca is the home of Spain’s oldest university and is also known as the ‘golden city’ owing to the beautiful golden sandstone used to build the buildings within the old town. This place is a beautiful town to walk around and take in the beautiful architecture, but also an ideal place to learn about some of Spain’s history.

Segovia

Segovia has a colourful past, over time it has been under the control of the Celts, the Romans, Islamists and Christians. Within Segovia is one of the most spectacular aqueducts, which dates back to the first or second century. As well as the beautiful Aqueduct there is also the alcazar of Segovia.

Toledo

Similar to Segovia, Toledo has influences in Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures. This cities cobbled hillside streets were made for wandering and exploring. When visiting Toledo you must visit the cathedral and alcazar and Toledo is also known for their marzipan so why not give it a try.

Cuenca

Cuenca in a medieval city which offers tourists something which is not seen every day, houses which hang from the cliffs. Cuenca is located about 100 miles east of Madrid and oozes old world charm. The city is the perfect place to soak in the sights of some amazing architecture. If you do take a day trip to this town, keep a close eye out as the hills here really do have eyes.

El Escorial

El Escorial is a complex in the suburbs of Madrid town centre.Located just outside El Escorial is one of Spain’s most controversial monuments, the Valle de los Caídos( The valley of the fallen) . This monument was built by Franco’s political prisoners to house the bodies of those who lost their lives in the Spanish Civil war. The basilica which now stands in the valley of the fallen is the final place of rest for around 40,000 who lost their lives in the war. However, it is also the final resting place of Franco ( the only person buried here who did not die during the war) and this is why it is such a controversial location to visit. Despite the controversy this place is beautiful and well worth a day trip.

 

Weekend Trips –

Madrid is the perfect place to come if you want to get away on the weekends as they have plenty of long weekends. Here are some our favourite weekend getaways.

 

Lisbon –

Lisbon has a beautiful mediterranean climate facing the atlantic ocean, so it is no wonder this is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations. Lisbon mixes whitewash houses, intimate alleys and modern architecture to give this city a completely unique feel. There are lots of things to see and do in Lisbon so why not take a trip and see what all the fuss is about.

Granada –

Granada is a city which will take you back in time to Spain’s Moorish and Christian history. The alhambra is one of Spain’s most visited attractions and a filming location from Game of Thrones. So why not do a Game of thrones tour of the city or just get to grips with some of the wonderful history on offer in Granada.

Sevilla –

Southern Spain’s largest city, sevilla was once home to carmen, Don Juan and Figaro and the cathedral is the resting place of Columbus. This city oozes romance which can be seen and felt as you wander the winding streets. Make sure you climb the Giralda tower for some amazing views across the city.

Cadiz –

This is one of Spain’s locals favourite holiday locations, with beautiful golden sandy beaches we can see why. But if lazing on the beach is not your idea of the perfect holiday, don’t panic! Cadiz has lots of sights on offer as well. So why not head over to Cadiz, explore the history and soak up some of the amazing culture on offer.

Berlin –

Seeped in history there is no way you can be bored in such an amazing city. Why not visit the berlin wall,Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. When you are finished with wandering around seeing the sights why not head to a local bar or cafe for some traditional german beer and bratwurst.

Prague –

Prague is the breathtaking capital of the czech republic, with beautiful architecture and a wonderful history there is never a dull moment in Prague. Why not check out some of the amazing sights, which survived Europe’s violence and destruction in the 20th century. Prague is home to Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square with the Prague astronomical clock, the Jewish Quarter, Petřín hill and Vyšehrad.