Since its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the walled city of Toledo has emerged as one of Spain’s cultural gems. Spend your days wandering through the city’s medieval streets or dip into an outdoor café as you admire views of the Tagus River and cathedral.
Formerly the capital of Spain until 1560, Toledo has remained unchanged since the 16th-century with many of its buildings surviving the effects of the Spanish Civil War. The Toledo Cathedral is perhaps the best example of Gothic architecture in the city, with grand interiors and alcoves housing a 22-tonne bell – the largest in Spain. Head to the Army Museum, Museo del Greco and the Museum of Santa Cruz to learn more about Toledo’s Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities and how it came to be known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’.
As the birthplace of the medieval cookbook, the ‘Book of Casseroles’, Toledo’s food scene is one of Europe’s best, so much so it was recognised as Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy in 2016. In Downtown Toledo, you’ll find over 70 restaurants serving casseroles and Manchego cheeses traditional to the La Mancha region. Alternatively, visitors looking to satiate a sweet tooth should check out the Confitería Santo Tomé for some artistic marzipan treats.
Located approximately 30 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train, Toledo is also accessible from many major European airports, creating the opportunity to explore the city across a day or weekend.