Curator’s statement
Exploring the heart of Spain by Train; while Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastián, and Seville captivate with their landmarks and rich culture, venturing off the beaten path offers a unique allure. This five-day train itinerary is for those who want to uncover Spain's hidden gems, journeying through quaint towns and lesser-known destinations that embody the country's heart and soul. In this segment, we step away from the well-known tourist routes and delve into authentic experiences and scenic landscapes connected by Spain’s high-speed trains (AVE). While our blog covers the major cities in other sections, here we present an adventure that dives deeper into Spain’s culture and history, from the medieval charm of Segovia and Burgos to the Moorish influences in Córdoba and the breathtaking vistas of Ronda.
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Day 1: Madrid to Segovia
Morning: Depart from Madrid to Segovia via high-speed AVE train (approximately 30 minutes).
Activities:
Visit the iconic Roman Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore the Alcázar of Segovia, a fairy-tale castle with stunning views
Stroll through the old town, visiting the Segovia Cathedral
Local Interaction: dine at a traditional Castilian restaurant, Restaurante José María. Renowned for its cochinillo (roast suckling pig), this traditional restaurant offers an authentic taste of Castilian cuisine in a warm, rustic setting.
Day 2: Segovia to Burgos
Morning: Travel from Segovia to Burgos via high-speed train (approximately two-and-a-half hours).
Activities:
Visit the Burgos Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore the Monasterio de las Huelgas, a historic Cistercian monastery
Walk along the picturesque Paseo del Espolón by the Arlanzón River
Local Interaction: Enjoy tapas at a local bar in the lively Plaza Mayor or dine at
Casa Ojeda, a historic restaurant known for its refined Castilian dishes, including the famous morcilla de Burgos (blood sausage), served in an elegant, old-world atmosphere.
Day 3: Burgos to León
Morning: Take a high-speed train from Burgos to León (approximately one-and-a-half hours).
Activities:
Visit the León Cathedral, famous for its stunning stained glass windows
Explore the Basilica of San Isidoro and its impressive frescoes
Wander through the Barrio Húmedo, known for its vibrant nightlife and tapas bars
Local Interaction: Participate in a local wine tasting session featuring wines from the nearby Bierzo region.
Dine at Cocinandos, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative Leonese cuisine with a modern twist, featuring a seasonal tasting menu that highlights local ingredients.
Day 4: León to Córdoba
Morning: Travel from León to Córdoba via high-speed train with a change in Madrid (total approximately four-and-a-half hours).
Activities:
Visit the Mezquita-Catedral, a unique blend of Islamic and Christian architecture
Explore the historic Jewish Quarter and the beautiful Calleja de las Flores
Discover the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and its lush gardens
Local Interaction: Engage with locals at a traditional Andalusian flamenco show in the evening.
Dine at Casa Pepe de la Judería. Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this restaurant offers traditional Andalusian dishes and an inviting rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Mezquita.
Day 5: Córdoba to Ronda
Morning: Travel from Córdoba to Ronda via high-speed train to Málaga and then a regional train to Ronda (total approximately three-and-a-half hours).
Activities:
Visit the Puente Nuevo, a stunning bridge spanning the El Tajo Gorge
Explore the historic bullring of Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest in Spain
Wander through the old town, discovering charming plazas and white-washed buildings
Local Interaction: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the gorge, chatting with locals about the history and culture of the region.
Dine at Restaurante Bardal. A Michelin-starred gem, Bardal offers a creative tasting menu that combines local ingredients with avant-garde techniques in an intimate and sophisticated setting.
Need to know
Key Points for Train Travel in Spain
Renfe AVE: Spain’s high-speed trains (AVE) are known for their punctuality, comfort, and speed, connecting major cities and towns efficiently.
Booking: Tickets can be booked online through the Renfe website or at train stations. It’s advisable to book in advance for the best prices and availability.
Classes: AVE trains offer multiple classes, including Turista (standard), Preferente (first class), and Club (premium first class).
Scenic Routes: The trains often pass through scenic landscapes, offering views of Spain’s diverse geography, from rolling plains to rugged mountains.
Consult with a Travel Advisor: Expert Assistance: If the planning process seems daunting, seek help from a travel advisor. Marc Scholnick, a travel advisor from Fora, can assist in crafting the perfect adventure, ensuring every detail is taken care of. Contact Marc to make your dream trip to Spain a reality, so you can focus on enjoying the journey without any hassle.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Spain. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Exploring South America: A Guide to Small Ship Cruising.