Toledo: The Former Capital

Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves the original medieval layout which makes it a fascinating place to visit. It is a place that is most representative of Spanish Culture.

The former Spanish capital is now a tourist favourite. 

Visiting majestic sites that offer a window into the past of the former seat of the Spanish Empire is among Toledo’s top things to do. The ancient city is undoubtedly full of historical treasures and is the location of a wide range of magnificent Roman and Moorish archaeological sites. The city is home to a distinctive fusion of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. A few must-see attractions include the magnificent Alcázar fortress, Gothic cathedrals, and mediaeval stone bridges. Count on us to prepare for you the perfect guide.

  1. Toledo Cathedral
  2. Toledo Train Vision
  3. Alcazar Fortress
  4. Museum of Santa Cruz
  5. San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery

Toledo Cathedral

One of Spain’s most significant churches is the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo (Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo), also known as Toledo Cathedral. This 13th-century Gothic monument was constructed over the ruins of an earlier church, which had been converted into a mosque before being demolished. 

Its cloisters and gallery feature some distinctive Moorish Mudéjar architectural elements. An audio tour that might help you understand more about the specifics of the cathedral and displays is typically included in the admission ticket. You can also enter the Collegio de Infantes, a nearby museum with lovely tapestries, for free as a result of this card.

Location: Calle Cardenal Cisneros, 1, 45002 Toledo, Spain

Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday from 2 pm to 6.30 pm

Phone: +34 925 222 241

Toledo Train Vision

The Train Vision of Toledo You are given an audio-guided tour of Toledo’s city centre by Zocotren. Locate the red train that is typically parked on the Plaza Zocodover’s northern side. It’s a cool choice for a short and enjoyable tour of the city. 

However, the “train” is actually a converted truck with two enclosed passenger waggons that mimic a train rather than a genuine locomotive. Because the journey over some cobblestone paths can be both bumpy and loud, make sure to turn up the audio on your headphone.

Location: Plaza Zocodover, 15, 45001 Toledo, Spain

Open: Sunday–Thursday from 10 am to 6.30 pm, Friday–Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm

Phone: +34 625 301 890

Alcazar Fortress

One of Toledo’s most striking monuments is the fortified 16th-century palace known as Alcázar Fortress (Alcázar de Toledo). The Moorish stone fortress that looms above Toledo from its highest peak is now home to the Museo del Ejercito (Military Museum), which features a variety of displays that highlight the long history of the Spanish army. 

There is a lot to see inside the Alcázar Fortress, which is rather large. Explore the castle’s mediaeval and Roman ruins, as well as certain rooms that were used during the city’s historic siege and still have bullet holes in the walls. Sundays are free admission days.

Location: Calle de la Union, 45001 Toledo, Spain

Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +34 925 238 800

Museum of Santa Cruz

The Museum of Santa Cruz (Museo de Santa Cruz) is housed in a magnificent 16th-century structure in Toledo, just behind Plaza Zocodover. West of the Alcázar stronghold, a hospital once stood where the museum now stands. 

Before going inside, pause to admire the façade, which showcases Spanish Plateresque design with large windows and floral motifs on its decorative walls. Although the collection is not particularly large inside, it is still worth visiting for the famous Spanish architect and painter El Greco’s works as well as artefacts from the Roman and Visigothic periods.

Location: Miguel de Cervantes, 3, 45001 Toledo, Spain

Open: Monday–Saturday from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm

Phone: +34 925 221 402

San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery

One of the outstanding instances of the syncretistic Isabelline Gothic architectural style, which combines Romanesque and Iberian elements with richly ornamented walls and pointed spires, is the Gothic-Flemish Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which dates to the 15th century. 

There are two galleries located within the monastery. One has a hallway beneath tall windows, while the other has a colourful Mudéjar ceiling that nods to its former Moorish habitation. View the lovely interior courtyard of the monastery, which is home to orange trees and rose bushes.

Location: Calle de los Reyes Católicos, 17, 45002 Toledo, Spain

Open: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm

Phone: +34 925 223 802

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