self guided tour toledo

Self Guided Walking Tour of Toledo (with maps!)

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Toledo is the heart and soul of Spain and an incredibly cultural city. It has seen numerous cultures and dynasties pass through its walls, as well as wars, royalty and artists. The legacy it guards is an essential part of Spanish culture, so visiting the city is bound to be a unique experience. This monumental walled hilltop city is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind its daunting medieval walls, in a labyrinth of winding pedestrian streets, are some of the most important historical landmarks in the country.

Magnificent old stone buildings and quiet cobblestone streets whisper the legacy of the past. For centuries, Christians, Jews, and Muslims flourished in a “city of three cultures” and built a dazzling array of churches, convents, palaces, fortresses, synagogues, and mosques.

1. Puerta Nueva de Bisagra

The Puerta Nueva de Bisagra is of Arab origin, and was rebuilt by Alonso de Covarrubias in Renaissance-style, back in the 16th century. It is one of Toledo’s six  medieval city gates.

The side that faces the city opens up with a semi-circular arch, flanked by two square towers with roofs and decorated with the coat of arms of Charles I. The other side has an arch that bears the city’s coat of arms. This arch is flanked by two huge circular towers.

Across the road is the Tourist Information office.

2. Puerta del sol

The Puerta del sol was built by the Hospitaller Knights as a gateway to the walled city in the 13th century.

It has a rectangular floor plan which finishes in a semi-circle. The entrance, with a horseshoe arch, is flanked by two towers. At the centre of the blind arches there are remains of an early Christian sarcophagus from the 4th century. It features a relief with the emblem of the cathedral that represents the imposition of the chasuble to San Idelfonso under the Sun and the Moon, hence the name of the door.

3. Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz

The Mosque of Cristo de la Luz is a former mosque in Toledo, Spain. It is the one of the ten that existed in the city during the Moorish period. The edifice was then known as Mezquita Bab-al-Mardum, deriving its name from the city gate Bab al-Mardum. It is located near the Puerta del Sol, in an area of the city once called Medina where wealthy Muslims used to live.

4. Termas Romanas

Quick to get around and on the positive side, free to access. The Roman baths, discovered in 1986, are viewed via a walkway extending over two rooms. There are also the remains of an ajibe (water system) dating from the 8th century Moorish era when a large villa stood here.

5. Cuevas de Hércules

Historic archeological site featuring a Roman-era storage facility in subterranean vaulted caverns.

6. Plaza de Zocodover

The Plaza de Zocodover is a square of the city of Toledo, in the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha, Spain. It was the nerve centre of the city during most of its history, acting as its main square. A part of it was designed by Juan de Herrera during the reign of Philip II. Here horses, donkeys, foals, mares, mules and other beasts were sold, when the city of Toledo was Spanish-Muslim city.

Here the most important market of the city took place. It has been celebrated as a weekly market for centuries. Today it occurs on Tuesdays in the vicinity of Paseo de Merchán or de la Vega.

7. Museo De Santa Cruz

Museo De Santa Cruz is a must visit in Toledo for being one of the most important museums in Spain due to the quality and quantity of pieces it contains, such as archaeological, fine arts and decorative arts.

There are three important collections: Roman, Visigoth, Arabic and Mudejar archaeology; Toledan painting from 16thand 17th centuries with El Greco’s art works; industrial arts with examples of popular culture and artisan local tradition.

Established by Cardinal Mendoza, it is a special building for being a hospital which carries out the new ideas about the importance of the cleanliness, the air circulation and the sunlight. It still has medieval features and shows the evolution towards the Plateresque Renaissance. must visit in Toledo for being one of the most important museums in Spain due to the quality and quantity of pieces it contains, such as archaeological, fine arts and decorative arts.

8. El Alcazar

It is today the site of the city’s Army Museum. Its construction dates from Roman times. During the reigns of Alfonso VI and Alfonso X ‘the Wise’ it was rebuilt and became the first example of a square fortress with towers on the corners.

It was once again rebuilt under Emperor Charles V, on this occasion by the architect Alonso de Covarrubias. The façades are Renaissance in style, and it has towers and crenellated defences according to a preliminary design by Alonso de Covarrubias, subsequently completed by Juan de Herrera. After the last reconstruction it became the site of the Army offices and museum.

9. Santa Iglesia Catedral

The temple dates back many centuries, but has only existed as a Christian church since the nineteenth century.

The temple was actually built on top of a Muslim mosque, and before that it had been a church in the sixth century during the reign of the Visigoth King Recaredo. King San Fernando and the archbishop began building the new church in 1226. The fifteen chapels of the ambulatory were subsequently completed. In the year 1300 the transept nave was completed, although work continued on the church for the next two centuries.

10. Baños de Tenerías

At present it is thought that the archaeological remains found about fifty meters from the church of San Sebastián, in the lower area of ​​the Barrio de Curtidores de Toledo, a few meters from the banks of the Tagus River in its southern sections, belong to one of the of the six Arab baths that the city had.

Indeed, it is thought that these Arab baths known as Baños de Tenerías or San Sebastián de Suso offered the possibility of carrying out purification baths for access to the Al-Dabbagin Mosque (the current church of San Sebastián).

11. Casa y Museo del Greco

This museum has an extensive collection of paintings by this artist of the Spanish Golden Age.

Opened in 1911, the museum is located in Toledo’s Jewish Quarter. It consists of two buildings: a 16th-century house with a courtyard, and an extension dating from the early 20th century. The two share a garden. The museum houses numerous works by El Greco, especially from this brilliant painter’s last period, as well as canvases by other 17th century Spanish painters, furniture from the same era and pottery from  Talavera de la Reina .

12. Synagogue of El Transito

Mudéjar art in El Tránsito synagogue. The El Tránsito synagogue is the common name for the synagogue of Samuel ha-Leví, and is the most important example of Spanish-Jewish art in existence. It was built in the 14th century, and is decorated with Mudéjar elements and beautiful geometric and floral motifs, and inscriptions in Arabic and Hebrew.

13. Iglesia de Santo Tomé

The church itself, which dates back to the 12th Century is relatively small and is located on the site of an old mosque. In fact, the gorgeous squared tower was the old minaret that was converted to a bell tower.

The main draw for the church today is to view The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. The church also  houses El Greco’s masterpiece, El Entierro del Conde de Orgaz, also known as The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. The painting itself is huge and the very vivid colours portray a death on the earthly plane and an image of heaven above. There is much to see in this painting, but not enough time in the St. Tome Church.

14. Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

The Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes was built to commemorate the victory at the Battle of Toro and commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs.

It has a single nave, with side chapels located between the buttresses. Of particular interest on the main façade are the chains of the freed prisoners. It has a late Gothic cloister and the ceiling on the second floor is in the Mudéjar style. Its church has a single nave with a stellar vault. Another highlight is the main chapel, which is decorated with the coats of arms of the Catholic Monarchs supported by a large eagles, ogee arches and the figures of saints.

15. San Martin's Bridge

San Martin’s Bridge has one of the most beautiful sunsets in Spain. The bridge was built in the Middle Ages and dates to around the 13th century, the bridge was later rebuilt almost entirely.

Initially it was constructed from ashlars. It was later modified with new defensive structures such as the two end towers, one from the 13th century and the other connecting to the wall from the 16th century. All this has meant that today the bridge has an impeccable structure. In 1921 it was declared a National Monument. It has five arches.

16. Puerta Del Cambrón

The Puerta Del Cambrón was also historically known as the gate of the Jews. This gate owes its name to the spiny buckthorn bushes all around it which are known in Spanish as cambroneras.

The Puerta Del Cambrón  was built over the remains of a Visigoth gate, and the current structure is in the Renaissance style with a square floor plan. On the interior façade there is a statue of Santa Leocadia attributed to Berruguete.

Tours and Activities from Toledo

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Spanish Nomad

One day in Toledo, the ultimate itinerary you need for an unforgettable visit

Right after the massive lockdown in Europe in 2020, I got to travel to Toledo for a day. At the time, my brother was studying there so I got to drive with him to pick up some of his stuff. Spending one day in Toledo was the perfect getaway albeit a bit far from Cadiz, where I am from. However, this one-day trip is one of the many things you can do if you are visiting Madrid since it’s only a 30-minute train ride or a 1.5 hour bus ride.

I didn’t do much planning which I regret because I lost some precious time. That’s why after my not-so-perfect day in Toledo, I decided I would put together the itinerary I would have loved to follow. This is what I ideally would have done, had I had a better grasp of things during my visit to Toledo.

Before you visit Toledo…

These are some things to consider before you spend one day in Toledo or in any place for that matter. Just a reminder to do some research before embarking on your adventure.

You will not have time to see everything

That’s a fact. The historic city of Toledo has been declared Unesco heritage and it has innumerable historical sites that exude history… And one day in Toledo is not enough. Think about the places that you absolutely cannot miss and build your itinerary on that.

I have put together a map with a suggested route, main attractions and other places of interest around the area so that you can visualise where everything stands. If there is anything you would like to visit and is not there, just add it to the map.

Research lesser-known things to do

Do some research to learn what other activities that line up with your hobbies you can do. For example, I knew I wanted to go to a lookout to out of the city to take awesome photos, visit the Jewish museum and do a guided city tour because I love learning a little about history. So before I started my day I made sure I had all that arranged and planned. 

Think about things that you enjoy when you travel. History? Architecture? Photography? Food? Nature? Adventure sports? There is plenty to do in Toledo but if you do not research it you will miss out. 

These are some cool things off the beaten path you can do in Toledo during the day: – City zip line over the river – Self-guided city tour through a city escape – Join a food tour – Nature hike along the Tagus river and up the Valley

You can totally have a fulfilling day in Toledo for free, minus food and beverages, of course. Here are a few choices on how you can spend your money wisely if you decide to do so and how to save a few euros.

Tourist bracelet

You can buy a tourist bracelet for 10 Euros, totally worth it if you are going to visit 4 or more of the monuments. Otherwise, each monument costs 3 euros each. The bracelet is valid for as long as you have it in your wrist so you can use it multiple days and you can totally reenter all the monuments. I think it is also worth it even if you are just staying one day in Toledo, because some spots don’t take very long to visit. Check here what monuments are included in the deal. 

Free visits

Some museums, galleries and buildings will be free or at a reduced price on certain days of the week, especially during this “new normality”. Below, you will find more detailed information, but if you want an easy list of free monuments put together by a local tour operator click on this link (sorry, only in Spanish).

Well, they are not exactly free since you are expected to tip the guide. It is still cheaper than your average tour and quite informative. A few companies offer these services and you can make a reservation through here or show up in Plaza Zocodover and ask if you can join them.

Perfect one day itinerary

Let me be clear before we start, there is no perfect itinerary. This is my version of a perfect day in Toledo here and now. Next year I may feel different about it and you now may feel different, too. Everybody likes different things to do, travels at different paces, have different budgets… There is no one size fits all. (By the way, I hate it when I see that label on clothing. It clearly doesn’t fit people my hight, how absurd!! Just say I didn’t want to bother making smaller sizes…)

Having said that, remember, this is just a guideline so that you don’t feel lost as I did.

Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo

• How to get there : It depends on where you are staying
• Why you should visit: The jewel of the crown in Toledo
• Duration: 15 mins (outside), 1.5 – 2 hours (full visit)
• Price: 10.50 Euros / 12.50 including bell tower and tapestry museum
• Included in tourist bracelet: no
• Discount: Sundays from 14 to 18.30h. free for Toledo locals, 2.50 euros for Spanish citizens and normal price for non-citizens.
• Other points of interest in the area:  Museum of Manchego cheese, Alcázar and Military Museum
• Go to Mass at 9 am to listen to the service in the Hispanic-Mozarabic rite (as opposed to the Roman rite). 
• If you are interested in the Military Museum it’s better to visit it in the morning since this self walking tour will only lead you further from it.
• Pro tip: I have recently read that visits to the Cathedral will soon be free Monday to Friday 8 to 9.30 am. The reason is that Unesco Heritage buildings should be free at least 4 times a month, someone pointed that out and they are studying the case. You can read the news in Spanish here .
• Website: https://www.catedralprimada.es/en

Santo Tomé Church

• Distance from previous stop: 3 min. walk
• How to get there : walk up on Cardenal Cisneros road following Camino el Salvador and Santo Tome road.
• Why you should visit: This church from the 1400s holds the most important painting from El Greco, El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz .
• Duration: 5 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
• Price: 3 euros
• Included in tourist bracelet: yes
• Discount: free for Toledo locals (so this is probably a no for you)
• El Salvador Church on Plaza de El Salvador (3 euros or free entry with tourist bracelet);
• the narrowest street in Toledo, Callejón de la Soledad , a bit further up Santo Tomé street.
• follow Paseo del Conde towards Mirador de San Cristóbal for a nice view of the most expensive cottages in Toledo, the Cigarrales .
• Tip: if you don’t have the tourist bracelet and you are not interested in seeing the most famous painting by El Greco, you can either skip this spot if swap if for El Salvador Church.
• Website: http://santotome.org/la-iglesia (Spanish only)

Transito Synagogue and Jewish museum

• Distance from previous stop: 4 min. walk
• How to get there : walk down the stairs and follow Reyes Católicos road.
• Why you should visit:
• Duration: 5 mins (outside), 45 mins (full visit)
• Discount: 5 Euros including El Greco Museum, free on weekends from Saturdays at 14h and on the following dates: April 8th, May 18th, October 12th and December 6th. All of June and July 2020 is free, too.
• Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, free with tourist bracelet
• Tip: If you don’t want to pay extra, pick the Synagogue that makes the most sense to you. Both of them are very pretty inside, but the Transit Synagogue has a very interesting museum on Jewish history in Spain. Closed on Mondays.
• Website: http://www.culturaydeporte.gob.es/msefardi/en/museo.html

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

• Distance from previous stop: 5 min. walk
• How to get there: continue on Reyes Católicos road
• Why you should visit: It is one of the most beautiful Gothic-style temples in Spain.
• Duration: 10 mins (outside), 20 – 30 mins (full visit)
• Discount: no
• Palace of Cava (Dukes of Maqueda)
• you can walk through the narrow streets of Jewish Quarters on your way to the Royal School of Noble Girls (included in tourist bracelet)
• Tip: closed 14 -15h.
• Website: https://toledomonumental.com/san-juan (Spanish only)

San Román Square

• How to get there : continue on Reyes Católicos road
• Why you should visit: San Román church, Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture and statue of Garcilaso de la Vega
• Duration: 15 mins (outside), 30 mins (full visit including Museum)
• Price: square stroll is free, Museum inside church 2 euros.
• Included in tourist bracelet: no, but nearby attraction does
• Discount: n/a
• Museum of Councils and Visigothic culture inside San Román Church (cost of 2 euros, free on Wednesday afternoons, Sundays and on May 18th and 31st.)
• follow one of the robbed alleys down to Padre Juan de Mariana square to visit the Jesuit Church. It’s free with the tourist bracelet and there is a nice viewpoint of Toledo Old Town from its tower.

San Vicente Square

• Distance from previous stop: 2 min. walk
• How to get there : follow the narrow street behind Garcilaso’s statue and turn right onto Esteban Illán road.
• Why you should visit: San Vicente church is a repurposed church that serves as an exhibition hall in the present. If it is open you can check it out.
• Duration: 10 mins (outside look)
• Price: free
• robbed alley with a gate
• Alfileritos road, plenty of tapas bars
• Our Sorrowful Mother (aka Our Lady of the Little Pins) shrine, with a very cool legend you can read here
• Tip: If interested in the current exhibit at San Vicente, come right after the visit to the Cathedral and continue your self-guided tour counterclockwise. They are only open 10 to 14h.
• Website: https://cultura.castillalamancha.es/patrimonio/catalogo-patrimonio-cultural/iglesia-de-san-vicente-de-toledo (Spanish only) Scroll all the way to the bottom and you will find current and future events on the bottom left corner.

Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

• Duration: 5 mins. (outside), 15 mins max (full visit)
• Gate of Valmadrón (cool photos with Mosque in the background and beautiful viewpoint)
• Gate del Sol go there on your way to the next stop
• Tip: closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
• Website: https://toledomonumental.com/cristo-luz

Puerta nueva de Bisagra (Bisagra Gate)

• How to get there : go through Valmadrón Gate, and turn right whenever possible, then turn left on Real del Arrabal road and continue straight ahead.
• Why you should visit: the biggest entrance gate to the old city of Toledo. Very impressive
• Duration: 10 mins
• Included in tourist bracelet: n/a
• tourist information office nearby
• Tip: if you feel like you can walk more, you can walk towards San Martín bridge on Paseo de Recaredo, a very pleasant walk if you are not too tired. Cross the bridge and find the bus stop that takes you to the Valley lookout.

Mirador del Valle

• Distance by bus: around 15 minutes
• How to get there : bus line L71, bus stop “Alfonso VI (Junto a Fuente)” on Paseo Merchán, near the tourist information office. Click here for timetables .
• Why you should visit: greatest view of Toledo Old Town
• Duration 15 mins or longer
• Price: free/bus ticket 1.40 euros one way
• Ermita del Valle (only Spanish)
• you can hike up to the lookout if you feel energetic.
• For best shots go in the early morning or before sunset
• Have a drink at the nearby bar while you wait for the golden hour to take your perfect shot
• Bus passes by every hour, for more accurate information, ask the bus driver
• Buy a bus card for 5 euros at the bus station (Unauto office) with 7 trips automatically added. One way trip costs 0.64 cents if you do that.
• When you get back, remember you can stop at San Martin Bridge, Puerta de la Bisagra and Plaza Zocodover, so that you don’t have to walk that much after such a long day.

San Martín Bridge or Alcázar

• Distance from previous stop: 10 to 20 minutes
• How to get there : hop on the bus on the same stop it left you at the lookout, stop either at San Martín Bridge stop to cross the bridge or Plaza Zocodover to see the Alcazar lit up at night.
• Why you should visit: both are iconic spots in the city
• Duration: 10 mins, just enough to cross the bridge or walk around the Alcázar
• Discount: Military museum in Alcázar is currently free
• Santa Cruz art gallery near Zocodover square
• city outdoor escalator near Zocodover square
• if you absolutely want to visit the Military Museum, head towards the Alcázar right after your visit to the Cathedral.
• You can hop off the bus at the bridge ad then walk towards the Alcázar (30 mins)

Final thoughts

It takes a little over 2 hours to do the walking part of this itinerary excluding lunch stop, bus ride to the lookout and time inside premises. Your time at the lookout would add 1.5 hours to the itinerary, and if you decide to visit all the monuments and museums mentioned it would take between 3 and 4 hours. Altogether, the full itinerary would take over 8 hours to complete , which is a very dense and satisfying visit. In my opinion, this is a perfect itinerary to spend one day in Toledo.

Disclaimers:

This post has been written in July 2020 during what we commonly call ¨the new normality¨during the COVID crisis. Travel experiences during this period of time are very different from normal circumstances therefore:

• some businesses, museums and other tourist attractions may not be open when you visit and opening times and rest days may change.
• current free activities during the ¨new normality¨ may not be free in the future
• Availability to enter certain places may vary depending on demand
• websites attached are mostly in Spanish , but I think they are useful for you to check out the pictures and give you an idea of what the place looks like and if you are interested in going inside. Hopefully, google translate will help you out too.
• You can check this Castilla La Mancha tourism website for extra info in English, but I have noticed that the prices are outdated.

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37 comments.

You are so right in that you can’t see it all. I had allocated a day but needed a lot more. I wish I had your itinerary as it is a good route to take and the timings are helpful. My favourite parts of Toledo were visiting the Transito Signagogue and some of the museums.

I wish i had done my homework before my trip :). Transito synagogue was one of my favourites too, Spanish Jewish history would be hardly known if it weren’t for places like Toledo or Córdoba.

I spent a short day only in Toledo and didn’t get to see half of the things on your itinerary. It is such a gorgeous city. I hope to go back and spend more time there. The tourist bracelet is such a good idea and well worth the 10 euros.

Had I planned better, i probably would have gone for the tourist bracelet, too.

I’ve wanted to visit Toledo for a while now! I hope to be able to go one day soon!

Tash // A Girl with a View

I hope you can visit soon! It’s a great city!

Toledo sounds so interesting to me. I would love to visit. I especially would love to see the El Greco paintings in the churches and museum. I agree that one day sounds to short on time. Thanks for all the great info!

You’re welcome! I am sure you would like Toledo!

What a gorgeous spot. I’m dying to go to Spain, I cannot wait for the pandemic to be over so I can go.

I know! Hopefully we can all travel soon 🙂

Wow, so many great stuff to do and see! I´ve never been in Toledo and have no idea what to expect! But it looks like a great place to stay for a couple of days and explore! Would love to do so one day!

I didn’t know much about Toledo before. I’ll need to take a drive there some time!

We had a three night stay in Madrid I decided to take a day trip on the train to Toledo. It was a gorgeous sunny day and we had a great day exploring the little couple the back streets. We found a fabulous little place for lunch away from the main tourist squares that served delicious Spanish food. We didn’t go in to any of the buildings because the architecture I’m just wondering around The street was enough for us I loved our day there

Love how organized this article is! I have never been to Spain, but definitely do want to do in the future. Great content! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Sounds like an amazing experience! This is a great location for a day trip and find less touristy things to do. Thanks so much for sharing

I have seen some lovely pictures of Teledo on Instagram and it looks like a gem place to visit. I like how you provided all the information for a day’s visit. I’m interested in the Architecture and like you said, planning ahead will save time on the day.

Toledo is one of my favourite cities in Spain to visit! Great article!

I have never been to Toledo, but I would love to especially after seeing the photo from the Mirador del Valle viewpoint.

Toledo is a really lovely city worth to visit. I have been there twice and every time I love it even more. So characteristic! Really great itinerary!

It looks like a charming place to visit… Love your article and can’t wait to check it out myself 🙂

Loved reading your post! I studied in abroad in Toledo so it takes me back to my semester there. I loved hiking up to the Mirador del Valle. It does offer a great view of the city.

My biggest problem is that I want to see everything. I make an impossible plan but in the end, it never works 🙁 Your plan is amazing! Thank you for sharing!

Toledo look like a great day trip to take! The view of the city is beautiful, you itinierary and all the details are great to plan a trip there! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharing!! Toledo looks gorgeous. Spain is next on my list! Saving this post for later :)!!

Toledo looks like such a beautiful city to visit. I’d really love to visit the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, it looks amazing. Thank you for sharing.

The Monastery is beautiful! Hopefully, you can visit some time soon. 🙂

Great post! I love Spanish cities and can’t wait to be back in Spain. Toledo seems so worth it, will check it out next time!

i spent a day in Toledo years ago and didn’t get to half these places lol. There is so much to see there! I’d love to go back for an overnight trip, especially so I could walk around before all the tourist crowds show up.

I would totally recommend an overnight stay and walk on the empty streets of the city.

I lover Spain! I can’t wait to go back and will defiantly be going to Toledo when I Do!

Toledo looks like such a lovely place! I didn’t know much about it before reading your post! I think the tourist bracelet is a brilliant idea! What a great way to make the most of seeing the some of the wonderful attractions! Thanks for the great guide!

Wow! Such a detailed guide. I didn’t know there’s so much to do in Toledo and I hope to be able to check it out soon.

Adding in the walking tour to this itinerary is super helpful. I always like to have a guide to stick to when you only have a day to see it all. Great post and Toledo looks like a beautiful place to visit x

Toledo is one of the few Spanish cities I still haven’t made it to! It looks like there is loads to do – I’ll def plan to spend more than a day. And what a good deal the bracelet is – I don’t think I’ve ever seen one so cheap!

It really is a good deal, and yes, there is plenty to do and see in Toledo.

This post is a timely read as I am going to Spain at the end of May for 3 months and plan to do a day trip to Toledo from Madrid.

I hope the itinerary helps! It’s quite intense but if you are fast paces like me, you will enjoy it!

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Old West End Self-Guided Historic House Tour

Take a self-guided tour of the Historic Old West End of Toledo! This neighborhood is one of the best kept secrets in the country with 25 city blocks making up one of the largest collections of late Victorian homes left standing in the United States. Frank Lloyd Wright studied this area in his planning of his Oak Park Project in Illinois. Pristine examples of Colonial, Georgian, Italian Renaissance, Queen Ann, Dutch Colonial, French Second Empire and Arts and Crafts homes fill these streets. We invite you to experience our rich and glorious history and architecture. For more details, visit  www.toledooldwestend.com .

Collingwood Boulevard

Rudolph Bartley House 1855 Collingwood Blvd. (1905) This is Toledo’s only intact Chateau style structure designed after a 16th Century French Renaissance Chateau. This mansion was appropriately built with massive hand-carved sandstone and roofed with red clay tile.

Reynolds - Secor House 2035 Collingwood Blvd. (1887) Characteristic features of this Queen Anne style house include numerous gables, multi-planed roof and wrap-around porch bee. Victorian ornamentation showcased with sunbursts, scroll tile, various window treatments and a dragon on the southern pitch of the roof. Pillars and spindles in the balustrade resemble furniture legs.

Hopkins - Berdan House 2038-40 Collingwood Blvd. (1892) This house is one of the best examples of the shingle style in the Old West End. Although originally built as a twinplex, the exterior is asymmetric, having a northern tower with conical cap and battlement windows. Note also the gabled dormers and roof.

Edward Ford House 2205 Collingwood Blvd. (1901) Designed by George S. Mills, this house is an original interpretation of Renaissance Revival design and decoration. The yellow brick is a striking contrast to the red terra-cotta moldings and ornaments. Bowed windows on the exterior are repeated in the unusual elliptical dining room.

John Waite House 2256 Collingwood Blvd. (1892) The Italian Renaissance style of this house is reflected in its rectangular design with composite columns, brick walls and sandstone trim. A large selection of carved stone and zink panels is displayed above the windows on the soffit area, on the two-story bay and on the porch.

Christian Gerber House (Collingwood Arts Center) 2413 Collingwood Blvd. (1872) Some of the most prominent Second Empire features of this house are the mansard roof with arched dormers which lie under the central tower, as well as a tower which is bracketed with large piers. The upward vertical thrust of the facade is affected by the alignment of the windows and brackets.

Gerald James “Jimmy” Hayes House 2709 Collingwood Blvd. (1926-27) Designed by Harry Wachter, the exterior of this house is an eclectic assemblage of styles. Tudor influence is seen in the half-timbering, while the rounded arches and extensive use of patterned ceramic tiles on the front porch indicates a Spanish influence. Hayes was the reputed king-pin of Toledo gambling in the ‘20s/early ’30s.

Fred E. McCaskey House 2717 Collingwood Blvd. (1899) The expansive full porch of this house has Doric column supports and the double central door is flanked by fluted Ionic columns. The original carriage house can be seen at the rear of the property.

Thomas Marlow House 2729 Collingwood Blvd. (1904) This Gothic Revival style house includes wood siding, shingles and brick. The second story lancet window is flanked by bays with carved verges, dental work, large support brackets and diamond panes. Over the doorways and windows are Gothic arches with carved spandrels. The brick porch has ceramic tile inserts.

Thomas A. Devilbiss House 3015 Collingwood Blvd. (1902) The most striking aspect of this house is the imposing front entry featuring a two story, flat roofed portico highlighted by enormous full length Corinthian fluted columns with acanthus leaf caps. Over the entrance is a large gambrel dormer which is flanked by dormers with Roman arched windows. At the corners of the house are Corinthian capped pilasters.

Parkwood Avenue

Edson Baumgardner House 2015 Parkwood Ave. (1884) The cost of building this house in 1884 was $10,000. Historic records label this house as anywhere from Georgian Colonial Revival to Neoclassical. Features include three window dormers, window trimmed with double Ionic columns, Gothic tracery in the upper casements and dentillated dormers and cornices. 

Harry Wachter House 2020 Parkwood Ave. (1910) Formerly located at 650 Lincoln Street behind the museum, this house is an excellent example of English Cottage Craftsman style. Designed by Harry Wachter in 1910 as his own residence, this house exhibits a large central brick chimney with stone accents, deep recesses supported by Doric columns, and a steep mansard roof.

William A. Brigham House 2049 Parkwood Ave. (1887-88) A beautiful Queen Anne style house was built for $6000. It features an octagonal tower, large attic gables, turned and carved ornamental woodwork and stained glass windows. Frank D. Stranahan House  2104 Parkwood Ave. (1892, altered in 1918) Originally built for $14,000, this house once had a large, full-width front porch. In 1918 this Georgian Revival house’s front porch was removed and a one story side wing enclosed for a sunroom was added.

Clarence A. Leeper / Frank L. Geddes House 2116 Parkwood Ave. (1926-27) One of the most palatial homes in the Old West End, this house is a very ornamental  Classic Revival mansion. The colossal Corinthian pilasters and veranda with the bowed porch element reflect late Italian Renaissance architecture.

Irving B. Hiett House 2255 Parkwood Ave. (1887) Moved from 2241 Collingwood, this house exhibits window treatments, a wraparound porch, carved panels and galleries which characterize the varied and decoratively rich Queen Anne style.

Rollin C. Inglesby House 2404 Parkwood Avenue (1910) This distinctive and charming cottage is a treasure chest of beauty. Unlike the pure English Cottage style, the abundance of windows gives the illusion of expansive wall space which complements the Tudor styling influence. Also, note the terrace style front porch.

Charles A. Tiedke House 2460 Parkwood Avenue (1915) The Four-Square, Arts and Crafts outside construction on this house is contrasted to its classical interior featuring brown cherry wood. Built for Charles A. Tiedtke, of the Tiedtke Department store, this house has many exposed rafter beams and contains a 2 lane bowling alley. The original carriage house can be seen at the rear of the property.

Virginia Street

George H. Nort House 630 Virginia Street (1875) The original farmhouse on this land, as well as the first house on the Virginia St. addition, makes this home precious to the neighborhood. The most unusual feature is the vertical panel between each set of upstairs and downstairs windows.

Acklin Avenue

Aaron Chesborough House 634 Acklin Avenue (1900) Located on one of the small side streets, the green shingles of this house are nicely contrasted by the varying shades of green in the shrubs and trees. Note especially the Queen Anne style of the front and side views and the turret.

Scottwood Avenue Clarence Brown House 2007 Scottwood Avenue (1883/1903) This circa 1903 Tudor style mansion was designed by Norval Bacon and built at a cost of $4,200 replacing the fire-damaged original.

Edward Drummond Libbey House (National Historic Landmark) 2008 Scottwood Avenue (1895) This structure combines the irregularity of the Shingle style and the symmetry of the Classical. The attic gables, granite foundation, wrap-around porch and bow windows are contrasted by the Classical style used in the unpatterned upper walls and delicate 18th century details.

Herman Dick House 2040 Scottwood Avenue (1892) This massive 9733 sq. ft. brick home was built in the Eclectic style with Dutch influence in the gables and Ionic fluted columns on the porch and second floor.

Harry T. Dunn / James Blair House 2049 Scottwood Avenue (1915) The exterior of this house was copied from Edward Luytens’ addition Temple Dynsley in Hertfordshire, England. The overall symmetrical design and the acanthus leaf scroll, a part of the front door decoration, are common features of the Georgian Revival style.

William H. Boshart House 2055 Scottwood Avenue This elegant stucco Arts & Crafts style house has grand proportions. Two matching gables are predominate to the exterior. The front porch is supported by large Tuscan style columns. 

Julius G. Lamson House 2056 Scottwood Avenue (1905) The classical balance and symmetry reflect this David L. Stine designed Georgian style home which is well balanced by the front porch and side porte-cochere, in addition to the third floor dormers and widow’s walk.

Arthur Sieben House 2109 Scottwood Avenue (1902) This Queen Anne style house also has touches and details common to the French Chateau style. The turrets on the sides of the house and finials around the windows give it that element found in the chalets of France. The stone porch has scrolled wood arches and carved exterior applique.

Ann Manor Condos 2200 Scottwood Avenue (1929) Built originally for Sam Davis as a 59 unit apartment building in the English Tudor style. Third floor units include diamond shaped leaded glass windows with cathedral ceilings. There is also an interior courtyard with a fish pond. Ann Manor was converted to condominiums in 1996.

Dean V.R. Manley House 2260 Scottwood Avenue (1897) This Colonial Revival home has a gambrel roof and a large front porch complete with bowed front steps.

John J. Barber House 2271 Scottwood Avenue (1897) A synthesizing of the classic and medieval idioms are highlighted in this home. Designed by Davis L. Stine, this carved woodwork design, has foliated tracery above the windows and the frieze under the eaves distinguish this Colonial Revival style home.

Moses G. Bloch House 2272 Scottwood Avenue (1909) One is reminded of the open plains of the Midwest when viewing this house. This adaptation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style exhibits a low pitched hip roof, wide eaves, stucco and brick walls featuring bands of casement windows.

Albert G. Wright House 2320 Scottwood Avenue (1895) Although there are many examples of Queen Anne style, there are few built with rose brick and mortar. Of particular interest are the multi-paned hip-on gabled roof, attic dormers and a broad and circling veranda with porch bee.

Harold Arms Terrace 2367-2405 Scottwood Ave. (1907) One of the first examples of inner city multi-family living is this cluster of row houses. The lavish historical detail shown in this building is French Renaissance style. Of particular interest are the very decorative parapet dormers and arched sandstone porch entrance.

William W. Bolles, Jr. House 2428 Scottwood Avenue (1910) Characteristics of this Dutch Colonial Revival style house are the pavilion windows on the side, dormers with pilasters, large pilasters around the house, gambrel roof and the Dutch door.

Edward G. Shawaker House 2487 Scottwood Avenue (1905) Where to look first truly reflects the flavor of this brick house. The roof line has an original flair and the straight linear line of the wrap-around porch is offset just enough to draw the eye to the eyebrow dormer on the third floor. Note the placement of the turret and the steeple.

Robinwood Avenue

Charles A. Russell House 2027 Robinwood Avenue (1891) This Queen Anne style house boasts seven gables, a domed turret, ginger-bread ornamentation, tracery on the peaks and columns which resemble furniture legs.

Michael Henahan House  2052 Robinwood Avenue (1894) Comparable to Henry Hobson Richardson’s Trinity Church in Boston, Massachusetts, the Romanesque style of this house is characterized by a straightforward treatment of stone with its effect dependent on mass and volume rather than Victorian ornateness.

Albert E. Overmyer House  2061 Robinwood Avenue (1903) This house is a mixture of Classical Revival and Colonial Revival styles. Classic columns, pilasters, and pediments along with side porches and sun rooms are incorporated in this house.

Johanna, John & Peter Murray House 2105 Robinwood Avenue (1900) The shingle exterior of this house, the trim and detail, the frequent use of large rounded bays and the decorative third floor dormers were English in origin. This was combined with the impressive rough-cut American fieldstone on the porch area. John N. Willys House  2210 Robinwood Avenue (1901) Vast proportions, medieval detail and the Tillinghast coat-of-arms with a motto carved in stone, combined with a half-timbered Tudor style, a French mansard roof and French Gothic dormers make this house one of the most pretentious of the Old West End mansions.

Frederick Paddock House  2233 Robinwood Avenue (1892) The lavish use of sandstone, brick and cut shingles on this 9,500 square foot house is unusual. The rambling asymmetrical designs are of the Shingle style, accentuated by the prominent tower, and a generous curving veranda. Built for $30,000 for grain merchant Frederick Paddock, it became the second largest home in the Old West End. George Storer Jr. House  2243 Robinwood Avenue (1892) Though originally built in the late 1800s for $9000 as a Queen Anne style, this house was extensively remodeled in 1920 by prominent architect David L. Stine for George Storer Jr. and his wife Mabel. The current formal design reflects the Tudor, or more correctly, Jacobethan Revival which flourished in America in the 1920s.

Julian H. & Lillie Tyler House  2251 Robinwood Avenue (1897) This is a reproduction of a Roxbury, Mass. house, which includes coupled columns, a second story balcony and an elliptical fan-light over the door. The widow’s walk and portico, with the free standing columns, are distinguishing Georgian Revival features.

Frank C. Hoehler House   2256 Robinwood Avenue (1920) The well balanced symmetry of this Italian Renaissance style house is emphasized by the arched sandstone entry, flanked by pavilion windows, well spaced second story windows and a centered dormer window. The original house on this site was a Victorian style that burned in 1919.

Emerson Apartments 2308 Robinwood Avenue (1913) Symmetry is the keynote feature of this building which contains the first residential elevator in the city. Each floor is a single flat. The Ionic pillars give an upward sweep that draws the eye to the bowhead windows in the low structured towers.

Horton Clifford Rorick House   2313 Robinwood Avenue (1899) This house typifies a similar version of late Victorian architecture. The asymmetric placement of the second story bay window helps to emphasize the symmetry of columns on the full front porch and the three third floor dormers. The north side is set off by a beautiful stained glass window.

Edwin J. Marshall House   2347 Robinwood Avenue (1899) Called “The Chalet” by neighbors, this house is unique in the area with its fancy brackets and eaves, numerous window panes and a lovely wrought iron fence.

Jay C. Lockwood House 2461 Robinwood Avenue (1910) This Spanish Colonial Revival style house shares many elements of Mission Revival and Pueblo styles of the southwest. Features include smooth plaster, stucco walls and chimney finishes and a low pitched clay tile roof. The deep overhangs match those on the garage and its sideway placement on the lot sets this house apart from its late Victorian neighbors.

Fred R. Gibson House 2611 Robinwood Avenue (1910) The Italian style of this house is most apparent on the south side which has an unusual flat tile roof, stucco extension walls and arched windows on the second floor. Gabled dormers and fan windows face the front and side. French doors lead to a large veranda. Basket arches surround the front windows and door.

Glenwood Avenue

Thomas Van Stone House 2103 Glenwood Avenue (1892) This Colonial Revival house has matching 2nd story front bay windows and unique multi-columned front porch with a rounded end. Large double cornice brackets add interest to the double bay wall on the north side of the house.

Jacob J. Freeman House 2274 Glenwood Avenue (1896) A mix of irregular Queen Anne and symmetrical Colonial Revival makes this house unique. Three dormer roofs resemble witches’ hats and a large turret in front has shingles and clapboard siding.

John Winfield House 2351 Glenwood Avenue (1907) This Arts & Crafts Four Square was built of New York yellow brick which gets its distinctive color from a high iron content. The handsome exterior is accented with sandstone trim. Square brick pillars with sandstone coping support the porch roof.

J. Heywood House 2528 Glenwood Avenue (1915) This 3-story, 12-room Georgian Revival was designed by Bernard Becker. Gray stucco walls are complimented by red shutters, more than 100 French-hung windows, and the massive cypress pillars of the main portico. A beautiful carriage house with chauffeur’s apartment compliments the property.

Charles H. Whitaker House 2546 Glenwood Avenue (1915) This Shingle style with Georgian influence was designed by Landgon and Hohly. The beautiful front entrance has built-in benches and a large Dutch door. Situated on a large lot surrounded by century old trees is typical of many Old West End properties.

Allan H. Emerson House 2561 Glenwood Avenue (1912) The exterior of this house is Arts & Crafts with a blended influence of English Country style. The barrel tile roof and stucco walls along with a unique attached drive-thru garage in the back help to make this house unusual.

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Treasures of Traveling

8 places to visit on a walking tour of toledo.

Treasures of Traveling in Toledo

Toledo is a wonderful Spanish city to visit full of culture, history and treasures of traveling. Toledo is located only 45 miles south west of Madrid so it makes it a wonderful day trip if you happen to be visiting the capital of Spain. Toledo is the capital of Castilla-la-Mancha and is an ancient Spanish city that is full of interesting things to discover due to its history of the co-existence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures within the city. Toledo is one of the many cities of Spain with stunning treasures of traveling to see and explore while visiting such a charming city. Everything in Toledo is within walking distance, which makes it easy to discover most of the city. The historic center is small and dense so you will have the best experience of the city by exploring it on foot. Walking tours are one of my favorite ways to discover a new city. You can easily take the following walking tour of Toledo by using the map below.

Map of Walking Tour of Toledo

Below is a map of the Toledo walking tour. The map lists eight locations throughout Toledo that you shouldn’t miss. If you follow this walking tour from San Martin’s Bridge to the Mirador del Valle, it is only 2.92 miles (4.7 km) in total distance so if you decide to walk back using the same path, it will be 5.84 miles (9.4 km) total. If you just walk and don’t stop it will take you around one hour to walk the total distance. I would give yourself at least five hours or more to walk along the path and stop and visit many of the locations from the Toledo Cathedral to the Alcazar fortress or take in the sweeping views from the Mirador del Valle. If you decide to skip the longer walk to the lookout points across the Tagus River then the walk through the city is only 1.36 miles (2.2 km) in total distance so it will only take about 30 minutes to walk the path through the city. Toledo can be visited in one day, but keep in mind that the abundance of hills will make it a long and tiresome day. 

Puente de San Martín

Puente de San Martín is a great place to start your day at because it is a medieval bridge from the 14th century. It is actually one of the two original access points to the city as the Tagus River surrounds the city of Toledo. This National Monument was built in 1390 and is the perfect introduction to the medieval city of Toledo. Generally this bridge can become crowded as many tourists come to walk across the bridge. If you are looking for something fun to do that will get you off your feet for a few minutes, then take the zipline across the Tagus River. This is also a beautiful place to return at the end of the day for views of the sunset!

Torreón de los Baños de La Cava

The Bath of the Cava of Toledo is a tower located downstream from the San Martín Bridge, on the banks of the Tagus River. It has several access points on three of the four sides of the tower. Each of the access points are at different heights allowing people to board boats throughout the year regardless of the level of the river. It was originally an Arab structure that was changed and modified over time through Christian interventions to what you see today.

Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

After crossing the Puente de San Martín and viewing the Tower, climb the hill to reach the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes. The Convent of San Juan de los Reyes Monastery is a wonderful example of the Elizabethan Gothic style. It is a monument commemorating the achievements of the Catholic Monarchs in uniting the different Christian kingdoms. The architecture is impressively diverse relative to other sites in Toledo and Madrid. 

Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca

Continuing along Calle de los Reyes Católicos, just down the street from the monastery, you will arrive at the Sinagoga de Santa María Blanca, a church in a converted 12th century Moorish style synagogue with a hall of horseshoe shaped arches. From the outside, it’s similar to many other churches in Toledo, but inside you will see the Moorish architecture and influence. 

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

The Toledo walking tour continues to the city center where the Toledo Cathedral is located at. You will first arrive at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which is also where the Toledo City Hall is. This is a great spot to just sit down on the park benches under the trees and relax while you people watch. The Catedral de Toledo is actually one of the largest Cathedrals in Spain, just behind the massive Cathedral of Seville and one of the 10 largest in Europe. The exterior architecture is beautiful, but the inside is truly awe inspiring. You can easily spend two hours exploring this cathedral so if you enter, make sure you have time. 

Plaza Zocodover

After leaving the Toledo Cathedral, you will make your way on Calle Comercio, passing by storefront after storefront, where you can find almost anything you would need while traveling in Toledo. You will finally arrive at Plaza de Zocodover, the hustling center of this historic city made up of three civilizations and of three religions. This square was the historic former central market during Moorish times. You can sit on one of the tree covered benches and just watch the world go by or have a meal or a drink at one of the many cafes in the square. 

Alcázar de Toledo y el Monumento a la Gesta del Alcázar

Just down the street from Plaza Zocodover is the Alcázar de Toledo. You can actually see the towers of the Alcazar from the Plaza so there is no way to get lost as you walk down Calle Cuesta Alcázar. The Alcázar de Toledo is a former fortified royal palace that now houses a military museum. It is huge so if you plan to go inside make sure to give yourself at least two hours to explore the extensive exhibitions. Outside of the Alcázar is the Monumento a la Gesta del Alcázar. It is a statue completed by Juan de Ávalos and it represents faith embodied in a woman. 

Mirador del Valle de Toledo

After visiting the Alcázar most people might choose to return to their hotel, but if you feel adventurous and don’t mind walking another 1.5 miles (2.4 km) for about 30 minutes you will arrive at a scenic overlook offering panoramic city and sunset views of the city of Toledo and the Tagus River. There are a few eateries and markets along Ronda de Toledo. If you don’t feel like walking you can also take a taxi or a ride sharing service. The view of the entire city is very beautiful because you can see the historical city center of Toledo with the Cathedral, the Alcázar, the old city walls and the Tagus River as it wraps itself around Toledo. This is one overlook you should not miss!

Traveling to Toledo

You can travel to Toledo from Madrid in a car, on a bus or by taking the train. I would suggest the train as it is the fastest. It takes about an hour in a car or bus, but using the high speed train from Madrid to Segovia takes only 30 minutes. It’s a great value and is the quickest way to get to Toledo from Madrid, although the bus will be a little less expensive.

There are many treasures of traveling to visit in Toledo like the Alcazar and the Cathedral. Toledo has many things to offer any tourist and is filled with a few of the amazing treasures that Spain has to offer. There are also many other wonderful Spanish cities to discover like Madrid , Segovia and San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the central part of the county and Granada and Seville in the southern Andalusian region of the county. 

— Luke Keeler

Check out the map below to see the walking tour of toledo.

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• ← 16 Places to Visit on a Walking Tour of Segovia!
• 4 Great Day Trips From Madrid! →

[True Free Tour Toledo] Explore Toledo with this Free Walking Tour

There are a lot of companies out there offering free tours if you search for “free tour Toledo”. But in the end, you are expected to pay for all of these “free tours”.

The only TRUE free tour is a self-guided walking tour.

But where should you go? What itinerary should you follow?

I’ve got you covered. 

Check out the free Toledo walking tour in the guide below.

Toledo is the capital of Castilla-la-Mancha , and it’s located 1 hour south west of Madrid, which makes it an ideal destination for a day trip.

The ancient city is full of interesting things to discover, in particular Christian, Jewish and Muslims monuments dating from the Middle Ages .

In this travel guide about the free walking tour Toledo, Spain, you’ll find in the table of contents below everything that we’ll see, from the recommended walking tour itinerary to more information about the city. Simply click on the table to expand it, then click on any part you’d like to jump to.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Your Free Interactive Map

Free walking tour – toledo, tips for your toledo walking tour, how to get to toledo, where to stay in toledo, visit spain.

To make it easy for you to go on your Toledo Walking Tour, I’ve created a custom map, specially for you.

And yes, it’s free .

Here’s your Toledo Itinerary map:

Just like walking in Avila , walking in Toledo is the best way to discover the city. The historic center is small and dense, and you will have the best experience of the city by exploring it by foot.

Ready to discover Toledo? On this Toledo free walking tour we’ll visit 10 spots, that will give you the best experience of this part of Spain.

Here are the main spots you’ll see on this free Toledo tour:

• Puente de San Martín
• Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
• Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca
• Iglesia de Santo Tomé
• Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo
• Iglesia de San Ildefonso
• Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz
• Plaza Zocodover
• Alcázar de Toledo
• Puente de Alcántara

So there you have it, your  Toledo free tour .

For more information about all of the places included in this walking tour, along with photos, keep reading below.

1- Puente de San Martín

We’ll start the city tour of Toledo in the west side of the historic city center.

The Puente de San Martín is one of the 2 original accesses to the city, spanning over the Tagus river. This National Monument built in 1390 is the perfect introduction to the medieval city of Toledo.

2- Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

After crossing the Puente de San Martín, climb the hill to reach our next stop, the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes.

It’s a huge building, and if you have time it’s definitely worth going inside to visit.

3- Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca

You won’t have to walk a lot to reach the next stop, which is literally down the street.

The Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca doesn’t look much from the outside, but it’s a real hidden treasure inside.

4- Iglesia de Santo Tomé

After the sinagoga, we’ll keep going down the Calle de los Reyes Catolicos , on our way to the Iglesia de Santo Tomé.

The itinerary will take you in front of the Sinagoga del Transito, a synagogue from the 14th century with beautiful ornaments inside. You’ll also walk next to the Museo del Greco, which might be worth a stop if you’re into museums.

5- Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

Our Toledo Spain walking tour will then take us to the center piece of the city, the Catedral de Toledo.

On the square, you’ll see the Toledo city hall ( Ayuntamiente de Toledo ) and the famous cathedral. It’s a good spot to stop for a while, and sit on benches under the trees to relax.

6- Iglesia de San Ildefonso

A short 4 minutes walk will lead you to the Iglesia de San Ildefonso, on the highest part of Toledo.

On top of gazing upon the beautiful facade of the church, you can climb all the way up to the twin bell towers, for one epic view of Toledo, with the cathedral and the castle in the distance!

7- Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz

Toledo is a special city because of the 3 cultures it has: Christianism, Islam and Judaism. On the first part of the tour we’ve seen churches and synagogues, it’s now time to see a mosque!

The Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz is a very small mosque, revealing incredible details inside.

8- Plaza Zocodover

Our 8th stop on the free walking tour Toledo edition is the main square in Toledo, the Plaza Zocodover.

There are beautiful buildings on every side of the square, and it’s the perfect place to sit on the terrace of a local café while enjoying the view and the local vibe.

9- Alcázar de Toledo

From the Plaza Zocodover, you can see the towers of the Alcazar de Toledo peaking above the roofs; in fact, it’s right down the street.

We’ll walk around to have a better view of the castle, and if you have time in your schedule you can go inside to visit.

10- Puente de Alcántara

And finally, the 10th and last stop of our Toledo self guided walking tour, the Puente de Alcántara.

After entering the city through the first medieval bridge, we’ll leave by crossing the second one. If you have extra time at the end of this walking tour, you can walk up to the Mirador del Valle , to end the day with a beautiful view over the whole city.

So there you have it, your walking tour Toledo itinerary. If you follow this 10 spots itinerary, you’ll discover the main points in Toledo, and it’s a good way to see the city!

Of course, this walking tour is meant to be used as a starting point –  don’t follow it to the letter !

I highly encourage you to  be curious along the way: follow that quaint street; go in this appetizing bakery.

If you post your photos of Toledo on Instagram, tag them with #kevmrc so that we can see them!

If you’re planning to discover Toledo by walking around in the city and following this free walking tour of Toledo Spain, then I have a few tips for you.

These will help you make the most out of your visit in Toledo:

• as for any walking tour, make sure to wear proper footwear ! Sneakers are ok for this short walk, but hiking shoes are always recommended
• wear sunscreen and a hat if it’s sunny; the sun is no joke
• remember to be respectful when you enter places of worship: take off your hats, and be quiet
• bring a thermos with you on your walk, you’ll be happy to have cold water/hot coffee with you when you sit down for a break
• if you’re planning to visit the monuments (the cathedral, go up the walls, and more) consider purchasing the Toledo Bracelet to save some money

You can either get to Toledo by car, or by train.

Toledo is a perfect day trip from Madrid, and from other Spanish cities. You’ll find below the driving time from nearby cities:

From Madrid : 1h

From Segovia : 1h35

From Valencia : 3h30

It’s difficult to drive and park in the city; the best option is to find a parking outside of the city walls, then walk to the center.

When you’ll reach Toledo, head to the north east of the city, right outside of the city walls. This is where you’ll find the cheapest parking options, and the most parking spaces available.

If you don’t have a car, you can get to Toledo by train from Madrid. There is a direct train that goes straight from Madrid to Toledo.

From : Madrid-Puerta de Atocha

To : Toledo

Duration : 33 minutes

Cost : 13.90€ (average price)

Book here : Train to Toledo

You can also take the trains from other cities in Spain (Barcelona, Segovia, …), just click on the link above to see all options.

From the Toledo train station, you can walk to the city center, which will take you around 20 minutes.

If you’re visiting Toledo, you have several options for where to stay. You’ll find below hotels depending on your travel style:

Budget : Albergue Juvenil Los Pascuales

Cheapest accommodation in Toledo, for around 14€ per night.

This youth hostel is only 2 minutes away from the Toledo Cathedral and the Toledo Castle. It also comes with included breakfast!

Comfy : Hotel San Juan de los Reyes

The Hotel San Juan de los Reyes is my favorite accommodation for a comfy stay in Avila, for around 75€ per night.

It’s ideally located in Toledo, a short walk from all the main sights. The beds are pretty comfy, and the included breakfast makes it a perfect choice for your stay in Avila. You’ll also enjoy free parking (which is nice in Toledo), and spacious bathroom with a hydro-massage bathtubs, perfect to relax after a long day of exploration in the city.

Luxury : Almunia de San Miguel

The best hotel in Toledo , hands down.

The Almunia de San Miguel has everything you’ll need, and even more: free parking, breakfast included, incredible rooms, and the location… The hotel is right next to the castle and the cathedral, you can’t be closer! There’s even a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Planning a trip to Toledo and Spain? You can find below several other articles about this wonderful part of the world to help you plan your trip:

Toledo Guides:

The Best Things to Do in Toledo

Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo

Visit the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes

Spain Guides:

Best Sunrise Spot in Mallorca

Free Walking Tour of Avila

How to get from Madrid to Segovia

I hope you enjoy your trip to Toledo and to Spain!

If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

Photo credits: 8 | 11

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Group Tours

Tours at tma.

The Toledo Museum of Art is a perfect destination for groups. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Picasso, the museum’s 30,000-strong art collection is considered one of the finest in the U.S. And as the birthplace of the Studio Glass Movement, it keeps this heritage alive with daily glassblowing demonstrations that show the magic—and mystery—behind this beautiful art form.

Request a tour

Booking a group tour at the Toledo Museum of Art is easy. Click on the tour request forms below. Please notice we have two separate forms, a Youth Tour form for school groups (K-University) and one for Adult Tours. We ask that all tour groups planning to visit the museum submit a request form so we can best prepare for your arrival. This includes self-guided groups as well as groups requesting a Docent-led tour.

By participating in a tour at the Museum, you grant permission for you and/or your students to be photographed for promotional purposes, without compensation.

Before you register:

Tours are scheduled in advance with at least three weeks’ notice.

Any change in your group size or cancellation must be made one week prior to your visit.

Tours are scheduled on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

School tours are not offered during the months of January, June, July, and August.

The museum does not have any indoor lunch spaces available for school groups. Please check out Tour FAQs to learn more about nearby lunch spaces for groups.

The museum is wheelchair accessible. Tours are also available in French and Spanish. Please indicate when scheduling whether your group requires special accommodation or requests.

Directions and parking information will be sent with your confirmation email. Please review the materials sent in your confirmation before your visit. 

K-12 Youth Groups

The Toledo Museum of Art offers guided tours for K-12 students, led by trained volunteer Docents. Students explore and make connections between classroom learning and the museum experience. Volunteer Docents will guide your group to discover art from cultures and makers that contribute to an inclusive global history. Our guided tours help spark student imagination through guided looking and curiosity through collaborative activities that support school curriculum.

Docents use approximately five works of art. This focused approach gives students time to develop observation skills and critical thinking. We engage students through a range of learning strategies, including open-ended and guided questioning, conversation, small group activities, drawing, and writing.

We can accommodate K–12 homeschool groups for Docent-led tours. Homeschool groups will be charged $50 for their Docent-led tour. Pre-K groups can check out our Family Center. Volunteer Docents will guide your group to discover art from cultures and makers that contribute to an inclusive global history. Our guided tours help spark student imagination through guided looking and curiosity through collaborative activities that support curriculum.

College & University Groups

We're happy to welcome your college or university class on a Docent-led or self-guided visit. Tours can be customized to focus on specific galleries, mediums, or collection areas.

School self-guided experience

Want to bring a group to the museum, but don't need a Docent guide? Explore the galleries on your own, but please register group. 

We provide teacher resources that extend student learning from the classroom. These resources use hands-on and activity-based approaches, including curriculum areas, lesson plans, and writing prompts. Teachers can also use these downloadable resources to help bring the TMA collection into the classroom. 

Small group sizes are recommended. If you are bringing multiple classes, we require 1 chaperone per 10 students.

Adult and other group tours

Experience the museum with family, friends, and colleagues by scheduling a private, custom tour with a volunteer Docent. Tours last about one hour, and you can choose from a variety of topics. While admission to the museum is free, the following rates apply to private tours; additional fees may apply for tours of special exhibitions.

Number of Visitors / Fee

5-15 people / $150 fee

16-30 people / $250 fee

31-45 people / $350 fee

46-60 people / $450 fee

Larger groups can be accommodated on a similar rate schedule.

Adult self-guided experience & charted bus groups

Tour independently without a Docent. We ask that you submit a tour request form so we can best prepare for your visit.

Accessibility tours

Toledo Museum of Art guests are invited to experience the Museum’s collection and special exhibitions in different ways. Click here  to learn more about tour accessibility at TMA. 

Touch Tours

Touch Tours, in collaboration with the Sight Center, are a free tour designed for guests who are blind or have low vision to engage with works of art. Each tour includes the opportunity to touch sculptures in the TMA galleries and have a guided discussion with trained Docents. All tours are Docent-led and must be scheduled in advance. Docents can accommodate a maximum of two guests for this tour type.

Register for touch tours

We can accommodate field trips of student groups of 10 to 100 and require one chaperone for every 10 students.

Bus parking is always free and located in lot #7 near the Glass Pavilion. We encourage buses to drop off the group at their designated drop-off before parking. A map will be included with your confirmation. Standard parking rates apply for groups parking personal vehicles in museum parking lots; as always, museum members park for free.

Currently the museum only offers an outdoor lunch space for school and other large groups at our picnic tables. This is on a first come, first served basis. The museum does not have any indoor lunch spaces for school groups available. If groups need an indoor space, we apologize, but we will not be able to accommodate you at this time. If possible, we recommend planning lunch back at school before or after your visit.

For an indoor space nearby, we encourage groups to look into Metroparks Toledo or the Toledo Lucas County Public Library .

We can accommodate K–12 homeschool groups for Docent-led tours. Homeschool groups will be charged $50 for their Docent-led tour. Pre-K groups can check out our Family Center.

Pre-K groups

Unfortunately, our volunteer Docents are not trained to tour Pre-K groups. Pre-K groups are welcome to check out our Family Center.

Our volunteer Docents are unable to accept tips, but you are welcome to make a donation to support the museum’s educational programming.

Museum tour guidelines

Please talk! Get excited about art. Discussion leads to better understanding and appreciation.

Stay about two feet away from artwork and do not touch.

Backpacks, large purses, satchels, umbrellas, and other bulky items are not permitted in the galleries. Please check them at the door prior to your tour.

Laser pointers are prohibited in the galleries.

Please walk, not run, through the galleries.

Handheld, non-flash photo and video cameras are welcome in the permanent collection galleries.

Eating and drinking are permitted only in designated areas.

Chewing gum and tobacco products are not permitted in the museum.

Tour Topics

A wide range of tour topics is available, each designed for specific ages and types of learners. Browse our available tour topics through the link below.

Become a TMA member today

Support TMA

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Toledo Tours

15 Best Toledo Tours

Located in central Spain, Toledo is one of the region’s most historically significant municipalities. As such, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the mid-‘80s for its abundance of cultural and archaeological attractions.

The city is situated on a bluff overlooking the Tajo River and is known as ‘the city of three cultures’ because it is home to large Muslin, Christian, and Jewish populations.

Toledo is full of palaces, fortifications, cathedrals, synagogues, and mosques, and there are a variety of tour options available to suit those of most budgets and interests.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Toledo.

1. 7 Monument Walking Tour and Tourist Pass

For travelers interested in Spanish culture and history, Toledo offers way more options than most cities its size.

The Monastery of St. John of the Kings was built in the 15th century and is one of Toledo’s premier examples of awe-inspiring Gothic architecture.

On this three-hour walking tour, guests and their guide will explore the monastery, as well as half a dozen other attractions, like the Church of El Salvador and the Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue.

Things get underway mid-morning. With their passes, guests can explore the sites on their own further when the tours are over.

2. 3 Cultures Walking Tour with Lunch Option

For generations, Toledo’s Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities have coexisted relatively peacefully; their influences touch the city’s art, architecture, history, and cuisine.

On this three cultures walking tour, guests and their guide will explore a number of the city’s premier attractions and monuments.

After a brief meet and greet with their guide, the group will begin at the cathedral before making their way to a number of mosques and synagogues.

Known for their fascinating histories and breathtaking architecture, these impressive structures are among the city’s most revered attractions.

Participants will have ample time to appreciate their splendor, ask questions, and learn about their pasts from their local guide.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Walking Tour

For some travelers, being chained to a large group or chatty tour guide for hours on end isn’t the optimum way to utilize valuable vacation time.

If that sounds like you and your travel companions, you may want to consider a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

This combo tour offers both open-air bus and guided walking options. Guests can choose to get off and explore the attractions that interest them and ignore those that don’t.

The Alcazar Palace is one of the city’s most quintessential sites, and packages include a free guided walking tour for those who want to see it up close and personally.

Click the link below for complete details and options.

4. Ancient Underground City Tour

Over the years, the rock strata beneath Toledo has been continuously excavated to provide building materials, storage areas, and shelter during times of strife and turmoil.

Now, there’s a labyrinth of tunnels that are truly fascinating to explore, especially for those who aren’t claustrophobic or easily spooked.

Along with their guide, guests will descend into the subterranean world after the sun has set and learn about the city’s history, legends, and lore from a truly unique perspective.

Underground attractions include Muslim and Roman baths, religious and archaeological sites, and wells that were originally constructed in the 11th century.

5. Mysteries and Secrets Tour

Apparently, the city of Toledo is home to more than its fair share of mysteries and secrets, because this popular 90-minute tour is dedicated to them exclusively.

The tour focuses on parts of the city that most travelers dare not tread and gives lovers of the macabre, alluring, and eerie a unique view into Toledo’s residents in eras long gone.

Participants will learn about magic, sorcery, and unusual events in the past that straddle the worlds of history and mythology.

Tours begin and end in the city center. Many guests find the dungeons and prisons leftover from the Inquisition particularly interesting.

6. Exclusive Private Tour with Licensed Guide

The Plaza de Zocodover is Toledo’s main square, and the perfect central location from which to set out on an exploration of many of the city’s most prominent attractions.

On this exclusive private tour, guests will benefit from their licensed guide’s historical and cultural insights as they wind their way through some of the city’s most unique ethnic neighborhoods.

The Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faiths and communities are central to the city’s history. On this tour, guests will visit the Alcazar, mosques, cathedrals, and synagogues.

Tours may also include archaeological attractions and underground sites, and hotel pick-up and drop off is an option as well.

7. Toledo Cathedral Tour with a Local Guide

Located just a stone’s throw from the city’s central square, the Santa María de Toledo Cathedral is one of the country’s most impressive religious structures.

The cathedral is characterized by vaulted arches, stained glass windows portraying significant historical and religious events. It is adorned with works of art by masters like Goya, El Greco, and Caravaggio.

The chapel’s interior features polished bronze, alabaster, and intricate wood carvings, making it a truly stunning attraction that’s definitely best experienced with a local guide.

Cathedral tours are great options for lovers of architecture and Christians interested in learning about the roots of their religion.

8. 7-Day Green Label Toledo Pass

For travelers who’ll be in town for the better part of a week, this 7-day Green Label Toledo Pass is a fun and cost-effective way to see many of the city’s most significant attractions without signing up for lots of individual tours.

The package includes access to eight of Toledo’s most historic, sites including the Alcazar, the Cathedral Primada, Synagogue of Maria la Blanca, and the Church of the Jesuits, to name just a few.

Guided tours of each attraction are usually offered daily. Since the tickets are good for seven days, guests can choose to take advantage of each when it suits them.

9. Welcome to Toledo Private Tour with a Local

For many international visitors, traveling is as much about people as it is about places.

This private welcome tour with a local guide is a popular option for those who prefer to let a professional handle all the pesky details.

It includes stops at many of Toledo’s most noteworthy attractions and allows guests to choose meeting at a central location or their accommodation.

For those who prefer the latter, tours usually begin with participants and their guide exploring the area to get familiarized with nearby attractions, restaurants, and places to shop.

Tours can be customized to fit the schedules of guests and focus on the things that interest them most.

10. History, Literature, and Inquisition Walking Tour

After rendezvousing with their guide in the city center, this history, literature, and Inquisition-focused walking tour will set out at a moderate pace to explore some of Toledo’s more obscure gems.

The three main elements of this tour are inexplicably linked. Along with the guide’s insights, they offer guests a unique look into what makes Toledo so memorable and exotic.

Much of the city’s past may seem romantic and even idyllic, but during the Spanish Inquisition, terror and uncertainty reigned.

Though it’s a fascinating slice of local and national history, it may not be a good fit for the faint of heart who find implements of torture and harrowing tales of interrogation off-putting.

11. 3-Hour Monuments Walking Tour

As a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo is one of just a few lesser-known Spanish cities that offer as many historically significant attractions as larger ones like Seville and Madrid.

It’s a city of varied cultures and faiths, and for lovers of old-world charm, visiting is a truly memorable experience.

On this three-hour walking tour, guests and their guide will visit iconic sites like the home of El Greco, the site of the original Imperial Capital, Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, and the majestic gothic cathedral that was built for King Fernando III between the 13th and 15th centuries.

12. Medieval Exploration Game and Tour

For activity minded visitors and those traveling with little ones in constant need of entertainment and engagement, game and exploration self-guided tours are fun and reasonably priced options that shouldn’t be passed up.

This app-based tour gives participants all the information and guidance they’ll need to see the city on their own terms and at their own speed.

Using their grey matter to solve riddles and uncover clues, guests and their companions will be led from one attraction to the next.

Tours are open to groups of all sizes and only require a charged cellphone, internet access, and a comfy pair of shoes.

13. High-Speed Train, Museums, Tour, Bus and Menu Toledo Card from Madrid

The short distance between Madrid and Toledo is easily covered in about 30 minutes on one of the country’s high-speed trains.

For those staying in Madrid looking to broaden their horizons without venturing too far, this value-packed combo tour is a logical choice.

Tours begin and end at the train station in Madrid and are available in English and Spanish.

They feature officially licensed guides and offer several dining options, as well as guided walking and bus tours with audio guides.

Tours of this nature can make for a long day, but for most participants, it’s an efficient way to experience the area to the fullest.

14. 3-Hour Private Walking Tour

For those who’ve just arrived in town, private walking tours are great ways to get the lay of the land without spending an arm and a leg.

Guests of this 3-hour tour will meet their guide at the train station, after which they’ll embark on a cultural and historical tour of a number of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim neighborhoods and attractions.

Tour highlights include St. Mary’s Cathedral as well as impressive mosques and synagogues that have been religious and cultural centers for hundreds of years.

Tour participants shouldn’t be shy about asking questions about the things they’re seeing, and also for suggestions about places to eat, shop, and visit when the tour is officially over.

15. Alcazar and National Army Museum Guided Tour

The Alcazar is one of those attractions that shouldn’t be overlooked when visiting Toledo.

For much of its existence, the Arab fort loomed over the horizon, providing an intimidating deterrent to would-be invaders.

Though much of the original structure is gone, the site features reconstructed portions and abundant displays, images, and historical accounts to give visitors a fascinating look into the past.

It’s also home to the National Museum of the Spanish Army, which includes an impressive collection of weapons, artifacts and military memorabilia dating back centuries.

Tours last about 90 minutes and include the services of a knowledgeable local guide.

15 Best Toledo Tours:

• 7 Monument Walking Tour and Tourist Pass
• 3 Cultures Walking Tour with Lunch Option
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Walking Tour
• Ancient Underground City Tour
• Mysteries and Secrets Tour
• Exclusive Private Tour with Licensed Guide
• Toledo Cathedral Tour with a Local Guide
• 7-Day Green Label Toledo Pass
• Welcome to Toledo Private Tour with a Local
• History, Literature, and Inquisition Walking Tour
• 3-Hour Monuments Walking Tour
• Medieval Exploration Game and Tour
• High-Speed Train, Museums, Tour, Bus and Menu Toledo Card from Madrid
• 3-Hour Private Walking Tour
• Alcazar and National Army Museum Guided Tour

Best things to do and see in Toledo

Toledo is one of the most charming cities in the Spanish province of Castilla La Mancha , and quite possibly, the entire interior of Spain. This city is also known as the “Imperial City” as it was the seat of the court of Charles I, and another nickname for this city is “The Three-Cultured City” because it was part of the Christian, Jewish, and Moorish culture. The Tagus River wraps around its Old Town and is a popular site that attracts thousands of tourists to this city each year to learn more about its rich history and immerse themselves in the local culture of one of the oldest cities in the country. 

When visiting all those essential tourist destinations , you can choose to do it with a local guide on a free walking tour to get to know Toledo better. You’ll discover all those hidden spots and lesser-known tourist attractions and get the most out of your holidays. These are some of the most iconic places and monuments you can choose to visit: the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, Roman road, Zocodover Square, City Hall Square, the Cathedral and the Jesuit Church, the Burial of the Count of Orgaz by El Greco in the church of Santo Tomé , the Transit Synagogue, the Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, the San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery as well as the Tajo River Viewpoints where you can visit the Victorio Macho Museum.

All the free walking tours in Toledo have opinions from other walkers who have already done the route with the guru in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Check out what they had to say about the experience so that you can find the best option for you. Other cities that offer a free walking tour with a local guru that tourists were reading up on, are Segovia, Cuenca or Cáceres.

Free walking tour near Toledo

Others cities to visit after toledo, find other guruwalks in toledo, where are you traveling to.

Adventures in Destinations Unknown

A Perfect Toledo Day Trip from Madrid

Last modified on May 10th, 2023 at 20:23

Toledo is one of Spain’s most magnificent and storied cities. Positioned on a hill overlooking the Tagus River, the attraction-packed gem is a popular day trip from Madrid and a highlight of travel to Central Spain.

Much of Toledo’s beauty lies in its pretty church-speckled streets, its decorated synagogue walls and its tucked-away mosques. With its monument-laden core, Toledo is a testament to the harmony which once existed between the world’s three monotheistic faiths. As a result, mosques, cathedrals and synagogues cram into the city’s dense and compact core.

Walking in the footsteps of these religious treasures remains the most compelling thing to do in present-day Toledo.

Table of Contents

DAY TRIP FROM MADRID TO TOLEDO

I organized a day trip to Toledo with my future mother-in-law, following a whirlwind five days in Barcelona, Andorra and Madrid. Toledo is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Madrid both because of its proximity, and because of its wealth of historical attractions.

If at all possible, visiting the city should be a top priority when traveling to Central Spain.

GETTING FROM MADRID TO TOLEDO

Toledo lies roughly 75km from Madrid. Its close proximity to the Spanish capital makes it easily reachable using a variety of public transportation methods and organized tours . Since we wanted to explore the city at our own leisure and didn’t want to deal with the hassle of renting a car, we opted to take the train.

High speed trains between Madrid’s Atocha Station and Toledo are both frequent and convenient. The train journey takes about 30 minutes and costs roughly €14 each way. Buses traveling the route are a bit cheaper, but take upwards of an hour for the same journey.

Our train ride to Toledo from Madrid was fast, comfortable and convenient. Seemingly in the blink of an eye, we found ourselves standing in front of the Moorish-influenced train station, just a stone’s throw away from the gates of Toledo’s old city.

THINGS TO DO IN TOLEDO SPAIN

From the Toledo Station, we headed through the Puerta del Sol, into Toledo’s old town. Immediately, we found ourselves lost in a maze of intriguing side streets, hidden churches, lively plazas, and shops selling delectable sweets.

Toledo is teeming with things to see and do—from sampling marzipan pastries, to shopping for knives, to discovering historical relics. It is no wonder that the UNESCO-laden gem is such a popular day trip from Madrid.

We had little in the way of an organized itinerary before visiting Toledo. And yet, by simply wandering through Toledo’s streets and alleyways, we stumbled upon many of its top attractions regardless.

VISIT ZOCODOVER SQUARE

We began our self-guided walking tour of Toledo at the lively Zocodover Square. A central gathering place, the square has long been the hub of Toledo’s old town. From the 1400s until the 1960s, Zocodover was the scene of the city’s Arab S ouk al-Dawab. 

Today, though the square shows no indication that it was once an Arab market, it is nonetheless a nice place to visit and a good starting point for tours of the old city center.

LOOK UP AT THE ALCAZAR

Towering over the city’s labyrinthine streets and a few paces from Zocodover Square, looms the foreboding Alcazar.

The Alcazar of Toledo is a stone fortification located in the highest part of the city. Originally constructed as a Roman palace, the since-remodeled structure became the site of a ten-week siege during the Spanish Civil War in 1936. The siege—which resulted in the capture of some 2,000 people and culminated in the hostage-taking of Colonel Jose Moscardo’s 16 year old son, Luis—made the building a centerpiece of Spanish lore and a symbol of the country’s nationalism.

Today, the imposing Alcazar houses Toledo’s military museum.

GAPE AT THE TOLEDO CATHEDRAL

From the Alcazar, we walked to the Toledo Cathedral–a masterpiece of Spanish architecture. The cathedral dates back to the 1200s. Its unique architecture contains a melting pot of styles, including Gothic, Mudéjar and Renaissance.

Armed with the regrettable attitude that a church is a church is a church, we chose not to pay the cathedral’s €10 entrance fee. Later, however, after seeing images of the church’s alter and vaulted ceilings, we realized we had made a mistake.

Travelers who—like us—would like to get a glimpse of the church’s interior without paying €10, can peek into the cathedral using a small side door that provides access to one of its chapels.

VISIT THE REYES MONASTERY

The imposing 15th century Reyes Monastery sits in the heart of Toledo’s Jewish quarter. Constructed by Catholic monarchs Isabel and Fernando, the Franciscan Monastery was built with the intention of demonstrating the supremacy of Christianity.

The highlight of the monastery is is a two-level cloister that surrounds a manicured garden. The cloister reminded me of the courtyard in Lisbon’s Jeronimos Monastery. It boasts elaborate stonework, intricate arches, and vaulted ceilings.

Entrance to the Reyes Monastery costs €3.

ADMIRE THE SANTA MARIA LA BLANCA SYNAGOGUE-TURNED-CHURCH

From the Reyes Monastery, we entered the exquisite Church of Santa Maria la Blanca. The delicate structure—originally known as the Ibn Shoshan Synagogue—is a synagogue-turned church that dates back to the 1100s.

The exquisite building displays the Mudéjar style of architecture. Characterized by ornamentation and Islamic-influenced motifs, the style was popularly used by the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish builders who lived in parts of Moorish Spain.

Muslim architects built the Ibn Shoshan Synagogue on Christian soil. Its construction reflects the religious tolerance of Medieval Toledo.

In the early 15th century, Christians renamed the structure and turned it into a church.

Today, Santa Maria la Blanca has been deconsecrated, beautifully restored, and opened to the public as a museum.

DINE IN ONE OF TOLEDO’S TRADITIONAL EATERIES

Toledo may be a small city, but it punches above its weight when it comes to food. In 2016, the city was deemed Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy.

In Toledo, stews made of rabbit, venison and partridge, are common fare. After a morning of sightseeing, we chose to stop by a lovely outdoor restaurant in Toledo’s old town for a bite of traditional food. My mother-in-law and I shared a meal of partridge and rabbit. The food was delicious and beautifully presented.

Toledo’s gastronomical appeal extends to its sweets. According to Spanish folklore, the nuns at the Convent of St Clement invented Marzipan during the 16th century. And while the veracity of the claim has been contested, residents of Toledo have embraced the sweet almond paste as entirely their own.

As a result, Toledo is chock-a-block full of shops selling marzipan in nearly every shape and form.

Needless to say, we made several stops to sample the sweet confections.

RELISH THE BEST VIEWPOINT IN TOLEDO

The Mirador del Valle is Toledo’s best-known viewpoint. It sits across the river from the city’s downtown core, located a half hour on foot from the train station. Due to poor lighting, we chose to skip the Mirador del Valle. We realized that if we wanted to stop by the viewpoint, it would have been best to visit in the morning, immediately after arriving in Toledo.

In the afternoon, the sun’s position casts shadows over the city—making Toledo’s most photogenic viewpoint unfavorable for photography.

Instead, we realized we were better off soaking in the city’s skyline views from the Idelfonso Church Bell Tower.

The view from the bell tower is one of the finest in Toledo and well worth the €3 entrance fee.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO SEE IN TOLEDO

For being such a small city, Toledo packs a lot of punch. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts  some of Spain’s finest monuments, it merits at least an overnight visit.

Since I only had time to visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid, I was not able to experience all the top things to do in Toledo firsthand.

If I could go back in time, however, I would have done a few things differently in order to ensure I made the most of my day trip.

First off, I would have purchased a €10 tourist wristband that allows for entrance into six of the town’s top monuments. The wristband includes three of the sites we visited (the Church of San Idelfonso, the Church of Santa Maria la Blanca and the Reyes Monastery), as well as access to the Iglesia del Salvator , the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz and the Church of Santo Tome .

Each site costs €3 to visit individually, making the combination ticket a fantastic value for money.

In addition to the sites that can be accessed with a wristband, I wish we would have entered the Toledo Cathedral and visited the El Transito Synagogue.

When we traveled to Toledo, we knew we wanted to visit a synagogue. What we didn’t know, is that Toledo houses two within spitting distance of each other. And while we enjoyed setting foot in the lovely white-arched synagogue-turned-church of Santa Maria la Blanca, we would have loved to see the stucco decorations of El Transito as well.

EVENING IN MADRID

After our unforgettable day trip to Toledo, we headed to Madrid’s Mercado de San Miguel for dinner. The market—adjacent to Plaza Mayor— is a foodie-lover’s paradise that overflows with an enticing variety of tapas and cocktails.

Once we filled our bellies with an assortment of savory treats from the market’s food hall, we headed to the nearby San Gines Chocolateria for a tasty dessert of churros and chocolate.

Following our indulgence in some of the tastiest Spanish foods , we had a few hours to enjoy the jovial atmosphere of Madrid’s historic downtown.

Madrid is a city that exceeded my expectations. For some reason, I’d always viewed Madrid as second to Barcelona . As a result, I only really considered visiting the city with the intention of using it as a gateway to Toledo.

Yet my limited time in Madrid made me realize that Spain’s largest city is not merely a financial and political hub. On the contrary, an ideal Madrid itinerary includes visits to regal buildings, pleasant streets, world-class museums and leafy parks.

Between Madrid’s nightlife , its jovial atmosphere, its pretty aesthetics and its vibrant food scene, Spain’s capital city quickly made me feel as though I’d set foot in one of Europe’s most livable cities.

Fortunately, prior to our day trip to Toledo, we had a half day to wander Madrid’s parks and visit its exceptional Prado Museum.

Still, the lack of time we dedicated to Madrid meant we were only able to skim the surface of what the city has to offer.

As a result, I now have every intention of using Madrid as a launching point for future visits to Spain .

While I spent the first part of my Spain vacation revisiting places I had seen nearly a decade prior, I was excited to add a new Spanish city to my travel repertoire.

And Toledo didn’t disappoint.

Toledo is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and an easy day trip from Madrid. It is the type of place that feels frozen in time. The type of place where artisans have perfected their craft for centuries. The type of place where culinary traditions are alive and well.

As I walked through the city’s streets and admired its monument-crammed core, it wasn’t difficult to imagine a time when Toledo was one of Spain’s most important cities. Or a time when interfaith cooperation in the city meant that the world’s three monotheistic religions coexisted in harmony.

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Discover Toledo with the best-rated Tour Guides

Toledo Free Tour

The best introduction to toledo, secure your space now.

The best-rated Toledo Free Walking Tour

• 12.30 pm & 3 pm
• Zocodover Square
• 1 hour 45 min

Toledo Free Walking Tour

Toledo is known as The City of Three Cultures . An amazing blend of some of the most important cultures and civilizations, Jewish, Muslim and Catholic, Toledo is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe .

Toledo's 13th Century Cathedral is one of the most impressive historical buildings in Spain. It is the home of El Greco's most famous works . Probably the most important artist of the Spanish Renaissance.

The Toledo Free Tour starts every day in Zocodover Square , the heart of Toledo's Old Town. On this 1 hour 45 min Free Walking Tour , your professional guide will lead you through the most attractive and interesting spots of Toledo.

Every day at 12.30 pm and 3 pm

In Zocodover Square

What’s included?

English-speaking guide

What's the price?

Pay-what-you wish walking tour

Tour Description

A former capital of the Spanish Empire, in Toledo you can admire a gothic-style cathedral, a 10th century mosque and two synagogues , in its fantastically preserved Old Town.

Join our 1 hour 45 min Free Walking Tour and we will show you all the most captivating spots of Toledo's Old Town. On this tour you will have a great introduction to Toledo for a first-time visitor.

If you will only spend one day in Toledo, this tour is a perfect chance to explore the Old Town and see their most famous sites. If you plan to stay for longer, we will give you some great recommendations so that you can enjoy your stay in Toledo to its full .

To ensure the highest quality of our Free Tours, groups of more than 6 people should book a Private Tour .

If you are arranging a booking for a School Group , please book a Private Tour .

This will allow us to give you a more personalized experience. Thanks for your understanding!

Secure your spot now for the Toledo Free Tour!

Showing up is fine in most cases. However, you will have priority with a booking if tours reach their capacity.

Meeting Point

The Toledo Free Tour starts every day at 12.30 pm and 3 pm in Zocodover Square, right in the heart of Toledo's Old Town and next to The Alcazar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about the tours, do our free tours run everyday, where does the free tour start, how do i recognize the guide, where does the tour end, how long does the free tour last, why are these tours free, which languages are the tours offered in, are the routes suitable for disabled people, are pets allowed on the free tour, questions about bookings, are the free tours suitable for groups, do i need to book a space for the free tour, how can i join the tour if i don’t have a booking, about our free tours.

The best way to explore Toledo and experience the unique atmosphere of The City of Three Cultures is on foot. The Toledo Free Tour is an informative and casual walking tour around the Old Town of one of Spain's most beautiful cities.

Toledo Free Tour offers informative and fun walking tours in the Old Town of Toledo. History, culture and entertainment are all on the menu at our Free Tours.

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Toledo, Spain

Guided free walking tours.

Book free guided walking tours in Toledo.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Toledo.

Explore Toledo in Spain with one of our free walking tours . Click on a marker on the map to get started and view details about the tour. Below is an overview of the sightseeing tours. A total of 3 tours are available in Toledo, Spain.

Self-guided Tour #1

• Alcázar of Toledo
• Army Museum
• Iglesia de Santa Justa y Rufina
• Capilla de San Blas
• Teatro de Rojas
• Capilla de los Reyes Nuevos
• Convento de Santa Úrsula
• Museo Taller del Moro
• Mezquita-Iglesia de El Salvador
• Iglesia de San Ildefonso
• Iglesia de San Román

Self-guided Tour #2

• Iglesia de San Bartolomé
• Palacio de fuensalida
• El Greco Museum
• The Sephardic Museum
• Synagogue of El Tránsito
• Old Synagogue Santa Maria la Blanca
• Iglesia de San Vicente
• Oratory of St. Joseph
• Puerta del Sol
• Castillo de San Servando

Self-guided Tour #3

• Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca
• Convento de San Antonio de Padua
• Church of Santo Tomé
• Iglesia de Santa Leocadia
• Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz
• Parroquia de Santiago del Arrabal
• Federico Martin Bahamontes
• Plaza de Toros de Toledo
• Circo romano de Toledo
• Yacimiento Arqueológico de la Vega Baja

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Toledo at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.

THE BEST Toledo Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours & rentals in toledo.

• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Toledo Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

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