What to do in Toledo?

1. Saint Mary Cathedral of Toledo

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Every city has its historic monument, which through its history and architecture tells the story of the city while amazing visitors. For the city, this mythical monument would undoubtedly be Saint Mary Cathedral. It's one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in all of Europe, and its construction is undoubtedly among the longest building projects in the world! Indeed, the cathedral took nearly 2 centuries to be officially completed, from 1226 to 1493. It's also built on the remains of the former great mosque of Toledo: this practice aims to show its dominance and power over civilizations and governments. If the exterior of the place has already dazzled you, know that its interior decorated with jewels and works of art will leave you speechless. The cathedral is open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 6:30 PM, and Sunday from 2 PM to 6:30 PM.

2. San Juan de los Reyes Monastery

Category: €/Cultural

Description: Like Saint Mary Cathedral, the Saint John of the Kings monastery in Toledo is also Gothic in style. This building was constructed to honor the victory of the Battle of Toro. Also, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile took the initiative to build the monastery in honor of their son's birth. Its somewhat magnetic aura intimidates and arouses curiosity at the same time. The choir decorated with the coat of arms of the Catholic Monarchs supported by great eagles is impressive, and its facade displaying the chains of freed prisoners shows an atypical and unique decor. The square cloister on two levels generally pleases tourists who don't hesitate to immortalize the present moment through a couple of camera clicks. For art lovers and history enthusiasts, know that the place you're about to visit has a tumultuous past whose echoes still resonate throughout the city of Toledo... So discover this must-see monument housing many surprises.

3. Stroll through the City Center

Category: €€/Cultural/Sports

Description: Yes, yes, we know. It's obvious that when visiting a new city, one must thoroughly explore its city center. It's often there where you'll find all the main attractions and the main monuments to see. But it's also where you can make beautiful encounters, chat with locals, and taste delicious dishes and delicacies from the city. Toledo has a unique old town, with the "Puerta de Bisagra," a magnificent restored stone gate, which is actually the original entrance gate opening to a city with medieval allure. In addition, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Tagus, which embraces the city in a torrent of delicacy and refinement. As you wander through the city center, you'll realize that the Saint Martin and Alcantara bridges connect the historic center with the modern district: giving you the vague impression of switching from one world to another.

4. The Alcázar of Toledo

Category: €/Cultural

Description: It's impossible for you to miss the Alcázar of Toledo which can be seen from kilometers away thanks to its famous rectangular shape and its style dating from Roman times, and which majestically overlooks the highest part of the city. Located on a 548-meter hill, it was formerly the defense of the Muslim Alcazaba. The building was first built under the reign of Charles V, then transformed under the orders of Alfonso VI and Alfonso X the Wise. The Alcázar of Toledo is a place charged with history, which has witnessed numerous military confrontations throughout the centuries: from the Middle Ages to the Spanish Civil War. Fascinating to historians, captivating to architects, the Alcázar is today mainly known for housing the army museum as well as the Castilla-La Mancha library. Open every day except Monday, busy hours vary depending on the season: it's recommended to avoid going there during summer.

5. The Synagogue of El Tránsito

Category: €/Cultural

Description: This Jewish temple dating from the 14th century is one of the best-preserved synagogues in Toledo, and the seat of the Sephardic museum. The place is located in the Jewish quarter and was commissioned by Samuel ha-Leví Abulafia, who was none other than the treasurer of Peter I of Castile. More precisely, the synagogue was intended to be the oratory of the palace. At first glance, its architecture is simple, without great artifices, it's only when you enter that you can admire the richly decorated wooden coffered ceiling. In truth, the contrast between the simplicity of the exterior and the details of the interior make the place even more attractive and intriguing. You can admire among other things the various Mudéjar elements, superb geometric motifs, and inscriptions in Arabic and Hebrew. The synagogue is open every day except Monday, and its hours vary depending on the season.

6. Santo Tomé Church

Category: €/Cultural

Description: Santo Tomé Church is known for housing one of El Greco's most beautiful major works: "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz." For many, moreover, it would be the most influential painting in world history: it's up to you to judge once inside the monument! For those who don't know it, the painting actually tells a very old Toledan legend. It's actually the miracle of the apparition of Saint Augustine and Saint Stephen who had come to bury the Count of Orgaz. In Mudéjar style, the church dates from the 12th century, but was built during the 14th century, under the orders of the Lord of Orgaz. A little info to keep in mind: when you pass near the bell tower, know that it's one of the finest examples of art in all of Toledo. Santo Tomé Church is among the most visited buildings in the entire city.