Madrid to Toledo Day Trip with Toledo Cathedral Tickets, Sword Workshop & Don Quixote Windmills

Your Madrid to Toledo day trip starts in Central Madrid where you’ll meet your expert guide and small group, then hop into a private, air-conditioned minibus for the hour’s drive to Toledo. Crossing the beautiful countryside, your guide will tell you the story of the city and explain how it was shaped by Christians, Muslims and Jews over some 2,000 years.

Your first stop is Toledo's most famous viewpoint for a few pictures, then you'll wind your way up through the old Jewish Ghetto. Pass by ancient metal workshops before heading inside an artisanal sword maker's workshop. Here you'll see how the famed workshops of Toledo have been making weapons for thousands of years. You’ll go behind the scenes for a full tour, and discover how modern artisans are still using centuries-old techniques to produce functional works of art.

Next, you'll use your Toledo Cathedral tickets to step inside for a guided tour. This is one of the most spectacular gothic cathedrals in the world. Your guide will show you all the highlights, like the overwhelming retable, jaw-dropping ceiling frescoes, and the famous Disrobing of Christ by El Greco.

After your Toledo Cathedral tour, you’ll head over to the Tower of San Ildefonso - the highest viewpoint in Toledo - for stunning, 360-degree views over the city and nearby Alcázar.

Lunch is not included, but your guide will give you recommendations on where to go to sample Toledan specialties like lamb, partridge, and marzipan.

Your Madrid to Toledo Day trip continues after lunch when you drive out to the windmills of La Mancha, made famous in the 17th century when they appeared the novel Don Quixote. You’ll step inside the only working windmill and learn about its literary importance as well as its traditional importance in the local economy. Stop off at the windmill's cafe and enjoy a tasting of manchego cheese with a glass of wine, beer, or a soft drink. When the weather is nice, you'll do this outside to take in iconic views of the countryside, which has changed very little since Don Quixote was written over 400 years ago.

This day trip from Madrid is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Central Spain. Your expert guide will always address the group in English (this is not a bilingual tour) to ensure you have an enjoyable, and fully-immersive experience.