How to get from Madrid to Toledo: The 5 Best Ways
Wondering how to get from Madrid to Toledo? Look no further! In this post I will tell you all about it.
A trip to Toledo is one of the best things to do while on holiday in Madrid, the beautiful Spanish capital.
In fact, I would say, if you are interested in an authentic Spanish experience, a trip to Toledo is a must!
Known as “The City of Three Cultures,” Toledo has a rich and diverse history and culture that only a few small cities in the entire world can exhibit.
As a popular destination from Madrid, there are plenty of ways to reach this beautiful and historic city.
So, let’s see the best ways to travel to and from Toledo for an unforgettable and relaxing trip.
Is taking a trip from Madrid to Toledo worth it?
Toledo is a picture-perfect city. Its castle is perched on a hill, overlooking beautiful medieval narrow streets lined with ornate buildings and a blend of old and new coming together to paint a beautiful postcard.
Furthermore, it is a city with a history of more than 2000 years. Hence it’s a fantastic spot for a day trip to explore the region and even the whole country’s rich history.
After all, once upon a time, Toledo was Spain’s capital.
So, if you are looking for a day trip full of history, incredible attractions, delicious food, and scenic spots for beautiful photos, Toledo should definitely be on your bucket list while on holiday in Madrid.
How to get from Madrid to Toledo
It is easy to get around from Madrid to Toledo, about 75 kilometers south of Madrid, so it is relatively close and easy to reach. Also, there are several ways to arrive in Toledo, from taking the train or bus to joining an organized tour or renting a car and taking a taxi.
Below you’ll find all the details necessary for an enjoyable trip to Toledo.
1. Train from Madrid to Toledo (fastest option)
👉🏽 Duration: 30 minutes
👉🏽 Price: €14 for one way, €23 roundtrip
👉🏽 Station: Puerta de Atocha train station
✔️ How to buy train tickets in Madrid
Tickets for Toledo from Madrid can be purchased from the train station Atocha Cercanias, either from the customer service booths or the vending machines.
However, it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance from online platforms since the route between Toledo and Madrid is a popular one, even among locals.
There are several Spanish platforms to buy tickets for regional and high-speed trains, but the most convenient platform is Trainline because often platforms such as Renfe require you to have a Spanish credit card.
✔️ Madrid to Toledo train schedule
The high-speed AVE train is the fastest method to arrive in Toledo from Madrid. It takes about 30 minutes from the Madrid-Atocha Cercanias station.
Furthermore, several trains go back and forth between Toledo and Madrid. Specifically, trains depart every hour or half-hour in the morning and every hour in the evening.
✔️ Things to know before taking the train from Madrid to Toledo
Firstly, check the train schedule in advance to ensure the availability of suitable departure times for your trip.
It is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best prices and avoid last-minute disappointment.
Additionally, it is better to have a ticket before boarding the train. Otherwise, even though it is possible to buy a ticket on the train, it will be a lot more expensive.
Also, it is important to note that metro tickets are not valid on Cercanias services.
✔️ Getting to the city center from the Toledo train station
Upon arriving at the Toledo train station, reaching the city is convenient and straightforward. It is just a short walk away. Specifically, it’s about 10 minutes on foot.
Once you exit the train station, follow the signs leading to the historic center, which allow you to easily navigate from the train station to Toledo’s bustling city center.
In case you carry heavy luggage, rather than arriving on foot to the city’s center, right outside the train station, you’ll find taxis that can take you anywhere around the city.
2. Madrid to Toledo by Bus (cheapest option)
👉🏽 Duration: 1 hour
👉🏽 Price: €7 for one way, €13 roundtrip
✔️ How to buy bus tickets in Madrid
Several bus companies are traveling between Madrid and Toledo. So, first, decide which is the most convenient for your trip. Some bus companies include ALSA and Avanza.
Next, you can visit the bus station in person or use their online platforms to buy tickets. Online booking offers convenience since it is the best option to securely reserve your seat in advance.
If you prefer to book in person, you can visit the ticket office at the bus station. But ensure you have cash or a valid credit card for the payment.
✔️ Madrid to Toledo bus schedules
The bus trip from Madrid to Toledo is about an hour, with the bus starting from Estación de Plaza Elíptica. And although it takes twice as much as a train, the bus is the cheapest option.
Furthermore, several buses go back and forth between Toledo and Madrid. Specifically, trains depart almost every half-hour, with the earliest at 6 in the morning and the latest at 11 in the evening.
✔️ Things to know before taking the bus from Madrid to Toledo
Firstly, check the bus schedule and plan your departure time accordingly because Madrid’s bus station is quite far from the city center.
Also, book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure a seat.
Furthermore, roundtrip ticket prices are slightly lower, as well as a more convenient and safer option. This is because tickets to and from Toledo can be sold out fast. So if you don’t already have a return ticket for Madrid, you might need to spend a night in Toledo.
Finally, keep an eye on your belongings and follow instructions provided by the bus company for a safe and enjoyable trip.
✔️ Getting to the city center from Toledo bus station
Once you arrive at Toledo bus station, you can simply follow the road signs, and within a ten-minute scenic walk, you can arrive at the city center.
Otherwise, you can take a taxi, or the bus line L12 which takes you directly to Toledo’s historic center. The trip shouldn’t be more than 10 minutes.
But prior to taking the bus, check the schedule in advance or ask for assistance at the station to ensure you take the correct bus heading to Toledo city center.
3. Driving from Madrid to Toledo (most convenient)
👉🏽 Duration: 1 hour
✔️ Where to rent a car in Madrid
Undoubtedly, the most convenient option to get to Toledo from Madrid is by car. It allows you to travel at your own pace and create a personal Toledo itinerary.
There are several reliable rental car agencies in Madrid that offer a wide range of vehicles to suit every budget and preference.
Among the popular options are international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, which have multiple locations across the city, including the Madrid-Barajas Airport.
Additionally, local agencies like Goldcar and Centauro also provide competitive rates and quality service.
The best way is to compare all
Find the best car rental deals and explore around freely, at your own pace. My favorite way to enjoy a destination!
✔️ Parking in Toledo
When visiting the beautiful city of Toledo, finding parking can be a bit challenging due to its narrow, winding streets and limited parking spaces. However, there are a few options available for parking in Toledo.
One of the alternatives is to use the public parking lots located outside the city walls, such as the Granada Parking, which is the most used due to its proximity to the old town.
Another option is to use the Park and Ride service, where you can park your car at designated areas near the city outskirts and take a shuttle bus into the town center.
Alternatively, if you prefer to park closer to the attractions, there are a few smaller parking lots scattered around the city, but availability can vary, so it’s advisable to arrive early.
✔️ Driving from Madrid to Toledo tips
Driving from Madrid to Toledo is a relatively short and straightforward journey, but there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s advisable to avoid driving during rush hour, as traffic can be congested.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the route beforehand, as there are multiple routes that can lead you to Toledo.
Also, take note that tolls may be applicable on certain highways.
Once in Toledo, be aware that the city’s streets are narrow and winding, so caution and patience are essential while driving.
4. Private taxis
If you are looking for a convenient way to reach Toledo but are not keen on driving yourself, you can always hire a private taxi, which offers a comfortable and personalized experience.
Private taxi services in Madrid are widely available and can be easily booked in advance or hailed on the spot.
These taxis are typically modern, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers who are knowledgeable about the route and surrounding areas.
Furthermore, the private taxis provide door-to-door services, meaning you can be picked up from your desired location in Madrid and dropped off at your preferred destination in Toledo.
Therefore, although they are a more expensive choice, they cater to all your needs and can accommodate special requests, such as child seats or extra luggage space.
Also, they ensure the well-being of passengers with licensed and professional drivers.
5. Book a day tour
Rather than creating a personal Toledo itinerary and finding the best transportation option yourself, you can opt for an organized tour.
After all, tours are an excellent way to fully experience Toledo’s history, culture, art, food, and lifestyle. So, let’s see the best-organized tours for Toledo from Madrid.
👍🏼 Full-Day Toledo Tour with Cathedral from Madrid
5.0 ⭐️ 2,156 Reviews
This full-day tour is an excellent guided and organized round-trip for those who are interested to visit and learn more about Toledo’s history and the three cultures, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish, influence the city’s development.
Walking around the city was amazing. We were really glad they stopped and let us take some pictures of the city from an advantage point to give us an overview.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Youngsuk_S, Jun 2023
👍🏼 Toledo Half or Full-Day Guided Tour from Madrid
4.0 ⭐️ 2,796 Reviews
Choose this morning, afternoon, or full-day excursion to experience Toledo’s rich history and culture. Specifically, with the help of an expert and knowledgeable guide, you can stroll around medieval cobbled streets, marvel at beautiful architecture, and admire masterpieces by El Greco.
Guide was fantastic! Knowledgeable and fun! The Madrid tapas scene is a fantastic experience when shown what to look for and what to look out for. And the history was very interesting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Paul_S, Jun 2023
👍🏼 Toledo Experience, a Tour from Madrid
4.0 ⭐️ 342 Reviews
Join this tour to Toledo from Madrid with comfortable roundtrip bus transfers and a guide to explore the city’s rich and diverse history through popular attractions like Alcázar of Toledo, the Santo Tome Church, and the Santa Maria Cathedral, without all the hassle of organizing a trip to Toledo on your own.
Our guide, Angie, was very friendly and informative during our walking tour of Toledo. Info that would have been hard to find as an individual.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jun 2023
Top Attractions in Toledo Spain
Getting to Toledo from Madrid is quite easy, no matter which option you choose. So, now, let’s see the top attractions in Toledo you should visit while there.
👉🏻 Catedral de Toledo
The Catedral de Toledo is a magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral showcasing breathtaking architecture and rich historical significance.
It features an impressive interior, ornate altarpieces, and intricate artwork, making the cathedral an excellent example of Spain’s grandeur religious heritage.
Also, its towering bell tower, known as the Tower of San Ildefonso, offers panoramic views of the city, enhancing the allure of this remarkable structure.
👉🏻 Sinagoga del Transito
Sinagoga del Transito is a 14th-century historic synagogue and a fantastic example of Toledo’s Sephardic Jewish heritage.
It is a stunning building featuring intricate Mudejar architectural details and a beautiful interior adorned with gorgeous plasterwork and tile designs.
Today, it also houses the Sephardic Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Sephardic Jews who once thrived in this area.
👉🏻 El Greco Museum
The El Greco Museum is a tribute to the renowned Greek-born painter El Greco.
Housed in a 16th-century building, the museum displays a comprehensive collection of his artworks, including his signature elongated figures and vibrant color palette.
It offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the life and artistic journey of this influential master of the Spanish Renaissance.
👉🏻 Museo de Santa Cruz
The Museo de Santa Cruz in Toledo is a fascinating museum showcasing the rich history and culture of the city.
Housed in a striking Renaissance building, the museum features an impressive collection of artworks, archaeological artifacts, and historical exhibits.
From Roman mosaics to El Greco paintings, this museum offers a captivating glimpse into Toledo’s heritage and artistic legacy.
👉🏻 Alcázar fortress in Toledo
The Alcazar Fortress is a formidable structure that has played a vital role in the city’s history.
Originally built as a Roman palace, it has been transformed over the centuries into a military fortress and royal residence. With its commanding location atop a hill, the Alcazar offers breathtaking city views.
Today, it houses the Army Museum, where you can explore the fascinating exhibits showcasing Spain’s military history.
Where to stay in Toledo Spain
🛏 Budget: Barrios Rey
Barrio Rey is a recently renovated accommodation located in the center of Toledo.
The guest house offers soundproof rooms and facilities for disabled guests.
Furthermore, each unit is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free WiFi. Some rooms also have balconies and city views.
The guest house is situated near popular attractions such as Toledo Cathedral, El Greco Museum, and Toledo’s train station.
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
🛏 Midrange: Casa Palacio Rodrigo de la Fuente
Casa Palacio is a luxury apartment complex located in the center of Toledo. It offers accommodations with city views, a private entrance, and an inner courtyard.
The apartments feature air conditioning, a seating area, a kitchen, a dining area, and a private bathroom.
Furthermore, the apartment complex provides a sun terrace, a 24-hour front desk, and a selection of packed lunch boxes for day trips.
Buffet and continental breakfast are available daily, with local specialties, fresh pastries, and fruits.
Lastly, the property is conveniently located near popular landmarks and offers sightseeing tour options for guests to explore the surrounding area.
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
🛏 Boutique: Hotel Boutique Cigarral de las Mercedes
Hotel Boutique Cigarral de las Mercedes is a countryside hotel located 5 km away from the historic center of Toledo.
The hotel offers modern and soundproofed rooms with unique designs and antique-style furniture. The rooms also feature beds with fine cotton sheets, and the bathrooms are equipped with high-pressure showers with either a waterfall or hydromassage effect for a relaxing and cozy stay.
Additionally, all rooms have a private terrace with views of the lake or the gardens.
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Hotels.com
Madrid to Toledo travel tips
Before planning your trip to Toledo, here is a list of essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
✔️ First, consider taking the high-speed AVE trains, which will get you to Toledo in just 30 minutes.
✔️ Alternatively, buses run regularly and are more budget-friendly.
✔️ Once in Toledo, don’t miss exploring the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as iconic landmarks such as the Alcazar of Toledo and the Toledo Cathedral.
✔️ However, Toledo is famous for its steep inclines, so wear comfortable shoes.
✔️ Finally, savor the local gastronomy by trying traditional dishes like marzipan and partridge stew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get from Madrid to Toledo?
The best way to get to Toledo depends on personal preference and convenience. But the most common ways to get to Toledo from Madrid are by train, bus, car, or guided tours.
Is there a high-speed train from Madrid to Toledo?
Yes, there is a high-speed train which you can catch at the Atocha Cercanias train station.
What is the fastest train from Madrid?
The fastest train is the AVE high-speed train.
How long is the train journey from Madrid to Toledo?
By high-speed train, the journey from Madrid to Toledo is 30 minutes.
What train station goes from Madrid to Toledo?
To get to Toledo, catch the train from the Atocha Cercanias train station.
Can you get to Toledo without a Madrid metro card?
You do not need a metro card to get to Toledo. But you might need it if you are traveling by bus since the bus station is quite far from the city center and you need public transportation to get there.
How do you spend a day in Toledo?
Spend your day visiting the city’s many beautiful attractions and museums and indulging in local cuisine or taking an organized tour.
How much does it cost to go to Toledo from Madrid?
The cost of getting to Toledo can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the specific time of travel. The average cost is about €16.
How to get from Madrid to Toledo: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when it comes to traveling from Madrid to Toledo, there are several excellent options available to suit every individual’s needs. Whether you prefer convenience, affordability, or flexibility, there is a transportation method that will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
With the five best ways outlined in this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to this captivating city and explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and remarkable cultural heritage.
