I am planing a 15 day trip to Spain with 3-5 days in Madrid. Other than the hassle of moving, any pros and cons of 5 nights in Madrid with days trips to Segovia and Toledo verses 3 nights in Madrid and 1 night each in Segovia & Toledo? This will be my first trip to Spain. Thanks.

Segovia is one of my gavorite cities in Spain, but I don't consider that, if limited by time, you MUST stay in Segovia. I do agree that it is a city that must be visited and a day trip from Madrid is certainly recommended. Toledo, on the other hand, is sooo crowded most of the time, that an overnight is almost compulsory if you really want to see this interesting city without too much hassle.

When are you planning to visit?

typo alert: "favorite" not gavorite...sorry!!

I hope to go the first two weeks of Sept, 2004. I know its a long way off but planning is almost as fun as going.

I would suggest staying overnight at least one night in Toledo at Hotel Cardenal--this place is truly magical. I loved the Prado and Sofia in Madrid, but would suggest cutting your time there and including Toledo. I haven't been to Segovia, but it sounds wonderful too.