Central Spain Road Trip Itinerary
The Central Spain Road Trip is the perfect way to explore the heart of the country. Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Madrid, this 831 km route takes you through some of Spain’s most beautiful towns and cities, including Segovia, Ávila, Salamanca, Plasencia and Toledo. Along the way, you will discover a wealth of historical sites and monuments, many of which are UNESCO Heritage sites. The best time of year to drive is during the spring and autumn months, when the days are mild and the roads are in excellent condition. Although the route is mostly straight and wide, there are some curvy and narrow roads along the way. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. It is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience and many lasting memories.
6
number of days
831 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Madrid/El Retiro Park/Photo by nperron22 on Pixabay
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START
Madrid
Distance 831 km
Driving time 12.3 h
Pace: fast
249.4 kWh
Airports
MAD
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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is an exciting and vibrant city with countless attractions and activities to explore. Known for its rich culture and history, Madrid is a great starting point for the Central Spain Road Trip.
When visiting Madrid, you have to explore the Royal Palace, a beautiful 18th century palace that has been home to the Spanish Royal Family for centuries, and the Prado Museum, which houses one of the finest art collections in the world. For a more modern experience, head to Gran Via, the main shopping and entertainment street in Madrid. Here you can find unique stores and restaurants, as well as some of the city’s best nightlife.
If you’re looking to explore the outdoors, Madrid is home to several stunning parks and gardens, including the Buen Retiro Park, a large park with beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of outdoor activities.
The closest international airport to Madrid is Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). This airport has many car rental services, so you can easily start your Central Spain Road Trip from Madrid.
Madrid is a great starting point for a road trip, with plenty of attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re looking for culture, nightlife, or outdoor activities, Madrid has something for everyone.
1
Madrid
- El Escorial
- Segovia
Distance 126 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
37.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Madrid to Segovia! This 126km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be able to experience some of the most interesting places in the area. Start your journey in Madrid, the capital of Spain, and head to El Escorial, a historical site and former residence of the Spanish monarchs. Make sure to take a stroll through the monastery, and admire its impressive architecture. Next, you will drive through some winding and narrow roads, so pay attention to the road. Once you reach Segovia, you will be able to explore the city's historical sites, such as the Roman Aqueduct, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the Gothic Cathedral. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Segovia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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2
Segovia
- Ávila
Distance 67 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
20.1 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Segovia to Ávila? This route is only 67 km and it can be done in less than an hour. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you drive through winding roads, narrow sections, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain. Along the way, you'll want to make sure to visit some of the most interesting places in Segovia and Ávila. In Segovia, make sure to explore the old city, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the Aqueduct of Segovia. In Ávila, visit the old city walls, the Cathedral of Ávila, and the Basilica of San Vicente. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
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3
Ávila
- Salamanca
Distance 127 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
38.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Ávila-Salamanca road trip! This 127 km drive will take you less than two hours, so you can make the most of your time and explore some of the most interesting places in these two Spanish cities.
Start your journey in Ávila, a beautiful city surrounded by medieval walls. Here you can visit the Cathedral of Ávila and the Basilica of San Vicente, both of which are stunning examples of Romanesque architecture. You can also explore the Convent of Saint Teresa, the birthplace of the famous mystic and saint.
Continue your journey to Salamanca, a city known for its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. Here, you can visit the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in the world. You can also explore the old city center and admire the Plaza Mayor, a stunning main square surrounded by colorful buildings. Last but not least, don't forget to visit the Catedral Nueva, a marvelous example of Spanish Baroque architecture.
As you take this road trip, make sure to take in the stunning views of the countryside. If you need more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Salamanca - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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4
Salamanca
- Béjar
- Plasencia
Distance 130 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
39.0 kWh
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Are you ready to embark on a road trip through the stunning Spanish countryside? Starting in Salamanca, your first stop is Béjar, a small town with plenty of history and culture to explore. From here, you'll drive through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region, with plenty of stops along the way to admire the views. As you make your way to Plasencia, you'll pass through some of the oldest towns in Spain, such as the beautiful medieval city of Ciudad Rodrigo. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to explore some of the most stunning natural sites, including the Sierra de Francia mountain range and the Monfragüe National Park. With a total distance of 130km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, this stage of your tour will be a great way to get a taste of the beauty and culture of the region. Don't forget to take some time to explore the historical sites and scenic roads along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Plasencia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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5
Plasencia
- Arenas de San Pedro
- Toledo
Distance 262 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
78.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 262 km long road trip starting in Plasencia, Spain, and ending in Toledo. The journey will take you less than 5 hours and you will pass through Arenas de San Pedro. Along the way, you will be able to marvel at the stunning historical sites, the winding road, and the breathtaking scenery. Visit the Plaza Mayor in Plasencia, the largest plaza in Spain, and the nearby Cathedral of Plasencia, built in the 16th century. In Arenas de San Pedro, do not miss the opportunity to observe the Roman ruins and the famous castle. Finally, in Toledo, you can explore the old Jewish Quarter, the Cathedral of Toledo, and the Church of Santo Tomé. Make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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6
Toledo
- Aranjuez
- Madrid
Distance 120 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
35.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Toledo to Madrid and explore some of Spain's most interesting places. The drive is only 120 km and will take less than two hours, making it the perfect day trip. Start your journey in Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in its rich history and architecture. From there, visit Aranjuez, a beautiful Royal Palace and Gardens, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, end your journey in Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital city, where you can explore its iconic landmarks, museums, and food culture. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning natural beauty of the Spanish countryside. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Madrid - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Madrid
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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is the perfect ending point for your Central Spain Road Trip. Located right in the center of the country, Madrid is easily accessible by car and is the perfect place to cap off your road trip.
The best way to experience Madrid is to start with a stroll through its bustling streets. See the magnificent Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace, or marvel at the stunning architecture of the numerous churches. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the main shopping street of Gran Via, or take a day trip to the stunning El Escorial Monastery.
Madrid also has world-class museums and galleries, including the Prado Museum, one of the most important art galleries in the world. With over 7,000 artworks, it’s sure to keep you occupied for hours. The Reina Sofia Museum is also a must-visit, with its collection of modern art from the 20th century.
For those flying into Madrid, the closest international airport is Madrid-Barajas Airport (IATA: MAD). Once you’re in the city, there’s plenty of public transportation options to get around.
Madrid is the perfect place to end your Central Spain Road Trip. With its rich culture, vibrant streets, and world-class museums, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Central Spain Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Madrid
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End:
Madrid
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Distance:
831 km
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Stay:
6 days
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Getting there:
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating Central Spain Road Trip that weaves through the historical tapestry of Spain's heartland. This journey begins and culminates in the vibrant capital city of Madrid, encompassing a distance of approximately 831 kilometers (516 miles). Roadtrippers will experience the allure of Spain's rich cultural heritage, impressive landmarks, and diverse landscapes.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Madrid: Start your adventure in Madrid, where art and culture come alive. Visit the world-renowned Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya. Explore the opulent Royal Palace, a symbol of the city's regal history, and unwind in the lush greenery of Retiro Park, once a retreat for Spanish monarchs.
- Segovia: Marvel at the astonishing Roman Aqueduct, one of the best-preserved in the world, and the Gothic Segovia Cathedral, a testament to the city's medieval grandeur.
- Ávila: Walk along the imposing Walls of Ávila, which encircle the old city, and admire the fortified Cathedral of Ávila, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
- Salamanca: Discover the Old City with its golden sandstone buildings, visit the historic University of Salamanca, founded in 1218 and one of the oldest universities in the world, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Plaza Mayor, a baroque masterpiece.
- Plasencia: Stroll through the Old Quarter with its medieval charm and visit the Plasencia Cathedral, which intriguingly features both Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.
- Toledo: Dive into the historic city of Toledo, a cultural melting pot known as the `City of Three Cultures` for its Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage. Explore the imposing Alcázar fortress and the majestic Toledo Cathedral, a prime example of Spanish Gothic architecture.
Best Time to Go:
The most pleasant times for a Road Trip in Central Spain are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the natural beauty of blooming or changing foliage, enhancing the Scenic Drives.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of winding and narrow Roads, particularly in hilly areas or historic town centers. Familiarity with manual transmission vehicles is recommended, as automatics may be less common in rental fleets.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This scenic route is navigable for drivers across various experience levels, with clear signage and well-maintained Roads.
- The itinerary boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic city centers of Segovia, Ávila, Salamanca, and Toledo.
- The Trip offers great value, as many of the cultural and historical attractions have minimal or no entrance fees, and food and accommodation options are available for a range of budgets.
A good choice for:
The Central Spain Road Trip is more than just a drive; it's a journey through time that offers an immersive experience into Spain's glorious past and present. Each destination along the route promises a unique story and an opportunity for personal discovery amidst Spain's cultural and architectural wonders.
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