5 stunning walled cities near Madrid

Sometimes you just have to travel a little away from Madrid to see scenery straight from a history book. Cities surrounded by centuries-old walls, with narrow streets full of legends and squares where life is still savored at your own pace.

In the Middle Ages, many of these towns were protected by walled enclosures to defend themselves from attacks or emphasize their strategic importance. Today, those walls still stand as silent witnesses to the past, inviting us to discover a heritage that can be not only seen, but also felt.

The most amazing thing is that many of these cities are just over an hour from the capital, making them a perfect getaway break for visitors to Madrid seeking a quieter and more authentic experience. A break amid so much urban energy to reconnect with history, art ... and with yourself.

They are not the only ones, but these five walled cities are here because they combine proximity to Madrid, charm and history that make them well worth your visit.

From medieval fortresses to walls that tell centuries of history: these five cities are just a short trip away ... and also amazing at the same time.

1. Toledo

Conocida como la ‘Ciudad de las tres culturas’, el alma medieval de Toledo sigue viva entre sus callejones, sinagogas y miradores. Rodeada aún por su muralla histórica, Toledo es una ciudad milenaria declarada Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco.

A escasos 70 km de la capital española, las posibilidades para llegar a Toledo son muy variadas y accesibles. El AVE es la forma más rápida y cómoda, pero también cuentas con autobuses urbanos con un amplio horario, si no prefieres ir en coche por la autopista A-42.

Puy de Fou

You can also make your medieval visit a sensorial journey. The city of La Mancha is perfect for combining in a day with archaeology, views of the Tagus and cobbled streets with such a surprising experience: Puy du Fou Spain. A few minutes from the city centre, this historical theme park recreates the history of Spain with epic shows such as El Sueño de Toledo), and makes a visit with family or friends a unique experience.

2. Avila

The city wall is probably the most iconic in all of Spain. With more than 80 towers, 9 perfectly preserved gates and its unmistakable profile, it is not just a decoration: you can tour the city and enjoy a city that is pure heritage.

The fortified cathedral, churches outside the city and a mystical ambience complete the experience of visiting this capital which is about 110km from Madrid. You can arrive by train or bus throughout the day, as you have a long time period to buy tickets.

3. Buitrago de Lozoya

Set between mountains, it is the only walled town in the region of Madrid, surrounded by the River Lozoya which acts as a natural moat. It has a defensive wall of more than 800 metres, towers, a layout that is a mixture of Christian and Mudejar styles, and walls of Arab origin from the 10th century that still stand for more than a thousand years. Indoors, the Mendoza Castle, the church of Santa María del Castillo and the Picasso Museum add a special charm to a setting as historical as it is lively.

There are also green areas and trails by the river that allow you to breathe in the fresh air and connect with your inner self just 84km from the center of Madrid. The best means of transport available to get here is the car or bus.

4. Cuéllar

In the province of Segovia , this Castilian villa seems to have stood still in time: walls, medieval gates such as San Basilio or San Andrés, Mudejar churches such as San Esteban and the impressive castle-palace of the Duques de Alburquerque. There’s no hurry here, just narrow streets full of art, local cuisine (pudding, meat and mushrooms) and popular festivals that will make you feel part of the local community in Castilla y León.

A Castilian treasure brimming with authenticity about 130km from Madrid. How can you immerse yourself in centuries of local history? You can also get by train or bus, but you should book a little longer as you are not only far away from the bus, but also have more time limits.

5. Uclés

If you are looking for an intimate and authentic getaway break, this small walled city in the heart of the route made by the Order of Santiago is the perfect option. In its center is the impressive 18th-century monastery-fortress surrounded by walls that evoke centuries ofreligious and militarytradition Ideal for travelers seeking heritage andintrospection.

In the heart of the Castilian countryside 103km from Madrid, this is a destination which is attracting more and more interest for visitors which can be reached by car or by bus.

The best thing about these medieval treasures is that they are not far away and are easily accessible. From Madrid, getaway breaks to walled cities can be as easy as taking a train or driving a couple of hours through beautiful scenery.

Ávila and Segovia, for example, are perfectly connected, making them ideal options for an uncomplicated cultural excursion.

If you prefer to explore charming secondary roads, we recommend a circular route that passes through Buitrago del Lozoya, Sepúlveda and Brihuega: villages where time seems to have stood still.

For travelers seeking a more comprehensive experience, a weekend between Toledo, Cuéllar and Uclés is a short journey between castles, cobbled streets and scenery that changes with every kilometre.

Because sometimes you just have to leave the city to find something so much bigger: a feeling of traveling back in time.

History is best savored when accompanied by local delicacies.

In Toledo, don’t leave without trying some carcamusas or traditional suckling pig. In the province of Segovia, roast suckling pig is almost a ritual, and the green bean from La Granja is pure tradition. In Ávila, Santa Teresa egg yolks are a must: sweet, delicate and full of history. Cuéllar also surprises visitors with intense Castilian dishes such as black pudding or grilled chorizo. And in Buitrago del Lozoya, the most authentic thing is to sit alongside the city wall and savor a great tapa including artisan cold cuts or a  comforting Castilian soup .

At the end of the day, a tasty meal is also a great way to discover the soul of the places.

If you are staying in Madrid and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, these destinations are just a step away. And when you return, there is nothing better than a space full of history. Something more peaceful, cultural and different from the urban hustle and bustle. Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a concept that reflects art, tradition and history in every corner. And if you are looking for another refuge with soul, Casa de las Artes Meliá Collection offers ideal accommodation for travelers seeking rest with personality.