How to Get from Madrid to Toledo: Best Routes for a Day Trip
Just over 70 kilometers south of Madrid lies Toledo — a medieval hilltop city woven with stone lanes, ancient walls, and layers of history. Here’s a complete guide to reaching Toledo from Madrid — by train, bus, tour, or car.
How Far Is Toledo from Madrid?
Toledo is located about 73 km (45 miles) south of Madrid. Despite its proximity, it feels like stepping into another century. Depending on how you travel, the journey takes between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours.
Option 1: Taking the Train from Madrid to Toledo
The Renfe Avant high-speed train is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Toledo. It connects Madrid’s Atocha station with Toledo’s railway station in about 33 minutes.
Why take the train?
- Speed: The fastest route — less than 35 minutes
- Comfort: Reserved seating, air conditioning, smooth ride
- Frequency: Trains run 8–10 times per day in both directions
How to book:
- Buy tickets on the Renfe website, through apps like Omio, or at Atocha station
- Advance purchase is recommended for morning departures (especially in high season)
What to expect:
- Departure: Madrid Atocha (get there ~20 min early)
- Arrival: Toledo train station — a short 1.5 km walk or 5-minute bus/taxi from the old town
- Ticket price: ~€14–€17 one way
Travel tip: Sit on the left side heading south for river views as you approach Toledo.
Option 2: Taking the Bus from Madrid to Toledo
Buses to Toledo depart regularly from Plaza Elíptica bus station in Madrid and are operated by ALSA.
Why take the bus?
- Budget-friendly: Around €6–€7 one way
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes or so
- Flexibility: No seat reservations required
What to know:
- Travel time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Book online at alsa.es or at the station (but no need to pre-book)
- Arrival point: Toledo’s main bus station — about 20 minutes’ walk to the old town or 5 minutes by local bus
Tip: Plaza Elíptica is a bit outside central Madrid, but easily reachable by metro (Lines 6 or 11).
Option 3: Joining a Day Tour from Madrid to Toledo
Organized day trips are widely available and can be a relaxing option if you don’t want to plan logistics yourself.
Types of tours:
- Half-day or full-day with transportation only
- Guided tours with entry to major sites (like the Cathedral or Synagogue)
- Multi-city combos (Toledo + Segovia or Ávila)
Pros:
- No planning required
- Often includes skip-the-line access
- Good for first-time visitors
Cons:
- Less flexibility and free time
- Group sizes vary — check reviews
Who it’s for: Travelers short on time, those who prefer guided context, or families wanting an easy day out.
Option 4: Driving from Madrid to Toledo
Renting a car is a good option if Toledo is one stop on a longer road trip — or if you plan to explore nearby towns like Consuegra.
Things to keep in mind:
- Drive time: ~1 hour via A-42 highway
- Parking: Not allowed inside the old town; use public lots outside and walk or take an escalator
- Fuel and tolls: No major tolls on this route
Benefits:
- Total freedom with timing
- Ability to stop en route
- Can stay overnight and explore at your own pace
Note: Driving in historic cities like Toledo can be tricky — narrow streets, lots of one-ways, and pedestrian zones.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Traveler Type | Best Option |
|---|---|
| First-time visitor | High-speed train |
| Budget-conscious | ALSA bus |
| History lover | Guided tour with entrance |
| Independent explorer | Train + walking |
| Family with kids | Tour or train |
| Road-tripper | Drive + stay overnight |
Is Toledo Worth Visiting as a Day Trip?
Absolutely. Even a single day in Toledo gives you a glimpse of medieval Spain: cathedrals, synagogues, ancient city walls, and winding alleys.
That said, if you have the time, spending one night in Toledo lets you enjoy the city after the day-trippers leave. The golden hour light, quiet streets, and hilltop views are unforgettable.
Quick FAQ: Madrid to Toledo Day Trip
Can I buy train tickets the same day?
Yes, but for morning departures in summer or weekends, it’s safer to book in advance.
How long does it take to walk from the train station to Toledo old town?
About 20 minutes uphill — or take a quick bus or taxi.
Are there luggage lockers in Toledo?
Yes — at the train station and bus station.
Can I do Toledo and another city in one day?
Possible (e.g., Segovia), but rushed. Better to focus on one place or join a combo tour.
Whether you take the sleek AVE train or wander in with a backpack from the bus, the journey to Toledo is short — but the experience stays with you.
