We are going to be spending 3 days in Seville, 3-4 days in Madrid (2nd time) and 3-4 days in Barcelona (2nd time). We were thinking about doing a day trip to Segovia or Toledo from Madrid? Is this feasible, or would we be better off saving those cities for another trip?

Did them both 30 yrs ago as day trips. Used public transportation (train). Plenty of time to see everything. Both very interesting.<BR><BR>

What were the highlights? I realize that this was a long time ago, so whatever recollections you have would be greatly appreciated.

I took a day trip from Madrid to Toledo around 3 years ago. We signed up at the hotel lobby with a day-long bus tour. I recommend it. The bus ride was about an hour. Toledo is a steep, compact city with cobble-stone alleys. The Cathedral is incredible. Plus the tour took us to synagogue with the architecture influenced by arab archecture.

WE are planning on going to Toledo from Madrid on an overnite next month. From my research it looks pretty easy to take public transporation there, and that is what we are planning to do. My guess is that this is one of those situations where you reslly don't need to go with a group unless you feel you need the assurances of a tour guide.

RAC - both are very easy day trips from Madrid. Check out the Renfe site. Given only one option, I would choose Segovia.

I took day trips to both Segovia and Toledo from Madrid while visiting. It was very easy to reach both cities using the bus. I enjoyed both and think they are well worth the time. Have fun!

I have been to both Segovia and Toledo and both are unique and have much going for them. The Roman aquaduct, cathedral, and the roast pig restaurants of Segovia all have appeal. Toledo has a beautiful cathedral, wonderful tiny streets (notice the great doors you see in Toledo), and the best of all-- the famous painting of El Greco, The Death of the Count Orgaz. Because of the El Greco, I would choose Toledo over Segovia, if I couldn't see both cities. However, my heart belongs to Segovia!

I think we're leaning towards Segovia right now. We're definitely going to hit one of the two. Does anyone have an opinion on whether it's worth it to change hotels and spend a night or two in either town? Some cities, like Siena in Italy, need to be experienced at night. Is that the case for either of these?

RAC - I personally feel that changing hotels for one night is a real hassle! Packing, toting luggage, and unpacking, then repeating the process eats into your travel day and adds unnecessary headaches and worries. The last train from Segovia leaves at 20:55 and arrives Madrid at 22:34. The last train from Toledo leaves at 20:58 and arrives Madrid at 22:12. Not enough time for a full Spanish set-down meal, but certainly enough time for some tapas and wine.

Would not bother changing hotels, too much of a pain. I would recomend either of the towns. Both of these places are easy to get to from Madrid, and both are beutiful. Hell, why not go to both?
(not the same day though...)

I did Toledo as a day trip. Buses leave between Madrid and Toledo every half hour and take about 90 minutes. It was a pretty easy trip. I enjoyed the town. You should know the alcazar is closed until 2004 (I think), but you can see the Cathedral and a lot of art work by El Greco.