Are you investigating the best day trips from Madrid? If so, I definitely recommend taking a day trip to Segovia – a city famous for its aqueducts, medieval walls, and history. Check out my itinerary to learn how to spend 1 day in Segovia.
Don’t have time to leave Madrid? Be sure to check out How to Spend 2 Days in Madrid for fun-filled Madrid options!
Table of Contents
Marvel at the Aqueducts
As soon as you enter the long, main street you will see the Roman aqueducts. It is remarkable how commanding yet casual they feel amongst the town. Older women sit chatting over cups of coffee mere steps away from the landmark without even batting an eye. Apparently if you live here you become accustomed to seeing them every day. If you’re like me, you’ll just be staring at the aqueducts with your mouth gaping open.
It is an incredible experience to see the aqueducts in person – especially because they are still standing in great condition! Head up the steps of Calle San Juan to the observation deck for the best view of them, as you can see in the images below.
Have a Vermouth in Plaza Mayor
Once you pick your jaw off the floor, meander through the tiny pedestrian alleys to make your way to Plaza Mayor. At this point, I think it’s safe to say almost every major city in Spain has a Plaza Mayor (either that or the vermouth has gone to my head).
Speaking of which, sit down at one of the many small cafes to order a round of vermouth! A vermouth is Spain’s equivalent of an Aperol Spritz in Italy; old and young Spaniards enjoy this aperitif year-round. Typically, you order one and it arrives with a tapa to try! For instance, mine came with thick slices of fried pork belly (talk about winning the tapas lottery!).
Segovia’s Plaza Mayor is beautiful. The best part is the view of the Catedral de Segovia. The gothic-style cathedral towers over Plaza Mayor (which you can slightly see in my picture above), which makes sense as it is built on the highest point in the center of Segovia. Inside, you’ll find magnificent art and tapestries as well as smaller chapels within the cathedral.
Igelisa de San Miguel
Plaza Mayor is also nearby the famous Iglesia de San Miguel (Church of Saint Michael). It is famous for being the location where Isabel was named Queen of Castille – a very big deal in Spain! Check the hours as it does sometimes close mid-day for a bit.
Try the Segovian Speciality, Cochinillo
After some Vermouth and pork belly, it is time for a genuine and traditional meal. Vegans and vegetarians, this is your trigger warning. We are going to try the Segovian specialty, cochinillo, aka baby pig. Since the baby pig has only ever been fed milk, the meat is extremely tender. In fact, at most restaurants they slice the meat with a plate to prove how soft and tender it is!
One word: YUM. It is tender, flavorful, and altogether an excellent choice for a meat-lover. *Thank you sacrificial baby pig for granting me that wonderful foodie experience in Segovia.*
Check out Iglesia de la Vera Cruz
After the cochinillo, there is one more pit stop during for your 1 day in Segovia – a visit to Iglesia de la Vera Cruz. While this little church may look meek from the outside, the inside is an absolute gem. Keep in mind, it is old! The church was consecrated in 1208! The church itself is uniquely round and you can still see remnants of renaissance paintings on the walls.
After your visit, head outside for a great view of the Alcázar de Segovia. It dates back to the 12th century and looks like it has been snatched directly out of a Disney fairytale. If you have time to visit inside, visitors are welcome!
Take one last stroll through the Segovian streets before saying your goodbyes. Overall, I hope you enjoy your 1 day in Segovia. Please let me know if there are other Segovia spots that you love. Adios!
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