After reading reviews of both Pullmantur and Viator for day trips to Toledo, Avila and Segovia, I am wondering if my husband and I should venture out on our own. Would very much appreciate hearing from fodorites about their experiences. Thank you for your help!!

Irtayloe:

We have been to those three cities on our own, in the past, without any problem.transpot is really easy via train, and the cities are relatively compact and walkable.
That said, we soeak soanish as our first language, being from South America, and we did our homework avout the coties, history and attractions.

The onlu reason to go on a guided tour can be that you will be given some information about the place, but notjing that you cannot access on a guide book or on the web.

Enjoy your stay?

Toledo and Segovia are both very easily reached from Madrid, but I think they both merit more than a day trip. Toledo is closer to Madrid, so at least you'd have most of the day there. I'm not sure how far Avila is from Madrid; I've been there twice, but once leaving from Segovia and once from Salamanca. Avila is pretty small, and I think you could easily see it in a day, but it would depend on how long the trip would take.

There are many buses and trains to those towns. You can even go to Cuenca on the high speed train AVE.

First stop when you get to these places should br the tourist office,get their map,ask if their are any walking tours-I know there are tours in Segovia and Toledo-right outside the cathedral.
If time is limited go off on your own with the maps!

First stop when you get to these places should be the tourist office,get their map,ask if there are any walking tours-I know there are tours in Segovia and Toledo-right outside the cathedral.
If time is limited go off on your own with the maps!
I really dislike the Pullmantur/Viator tours.You will waste so much time waiting around etc! You will see much more on your own and it's definitely more fun!

Absolutely no need for a tour to either Toledo or Segovia. Both are easy to do on your own.

Thank you for your responses. Confirms my thoughts about the ease with which to see more on our own. I know a little bit of Spanish and remember from earlier travels just how warm and friendly the people of Spain are. Can't wait!

It is very easy to visit Segovia, Avila, and Toledo on your own.

FWIW, I thought Toledo deserved 2 full days.