Quick answer
Toledo and Segovia are about 30 minutes from Madrid on Renfe's Avant train. Alcalá de Henares, Aranjuez and El Escorial, three World Heritage sites, are reached by Cercanías commuter trains. Check current times and prices on Renfe before you go.
Destinations at a glance
| Destination | How to get there | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Toledo | Avant train (Renfe) | About 30 minutes |
| Segovia | Avant train (Renfe), from Chamartín | About 30 minutes |
| Alcalá de Henares | Cercanías | Check on Renfe |
| Aranjuez | Cercanías | Check on Renfe |
| El Escorial | Cercanías | Check on Renfe |
The times for Toledo and Segovia come from Renfe's official pages. We include no prices because they change by train and day: always check Renfe's website. There is no direct train from Segovia to Toledo, so it is best to do each city on a different day.
Toledo in a day
A World Heritage city, about 30 minutes by Avant. Wear comfortable shoes: its streets are steep. Buy your ticket in advance, because Renfe says that is how you get the cheapest prices.
Segovia in a day
Segovia, with its Roman aqueduct and alcázar, is also about 30 minutes by Avant from Chamartín. Go early to make the most of the day.
Cercanías: Alcalá, Aranjuez and El Escorial
According to Madrid's tourist office, these three World Heritage destinations are reached by Cercanías, which starts from or stops at Atocha. Trains run between 5-6 am and midnight, normally every 10 to 30 minutes. To get to Atocha, see from Atocha and Chamartín to the centre.
If you only have one day in Madrid
The day trip may not be worth it. See our Madrid in one day or Madrid in two days guides and leave Toledo or Segovia for another time. Our full-day tuk tuk tour covers the city at an easy pace.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Madrid to Toledo?
About 30 minutes on the Avant, according to Renfe.
Can I see Toledo and Segovia on the same day?
It is not practical: there is no direct train between them, so it is best to give each one a day.
Which day trips can I take by Cercanías?
Alcalá de Henares, Aranjuez and El Escorial, according to Madrid's tourist office.
When should I buy the ticket?
In advance: according to Renfe, that is how you get the cheapest prices.
Sources
Facts and prices checked on 18 October 2026. They can change: confirm them with the official source before you travel.