Three excursions you can do near Madrid to take advantage of the long weekend and holidays

With the beginning of the month of December just around the corner, many are already counting the days, preparing for the long weekend of the first week or for the rest of the month’s festivities. In this way, both next Friday, December 6 – Spanish Constitution Day – and the 25th – Christmas Day – will be non-working holidays. Furthermore, the first one falls on a Friday, so it will provide all workers with a long weekend, perfect for planning a last-minute trip in which to discover some of the most striking places on the peninsula.

The center of the country brings together a large number of historic cities and unique places waiting to be explored. From cities with remains of ancient civilizations to forests of enormous trees and green fields, several destinations near the autonomous community of Madrid offer unique experiences perfect for a multi-day getaway. In this way, it is important to take into account which are the fashionable destinations or those that offer the most attractive activities to prepare the most pleasant trip possible.

Knowing what these destinations are and how to enjoy them to the fullest is essential to enjoy a complete experience in the last month of the year. So, these are three excursions that you can do near Madrid to take advantage of the long weekend and the holidays.

Segovia, in Castilla y León

Just 1 hour by car from Madrid, the city of Segovia is one of the cities with the most history in the entire Peninsula. Its initial occupation dates back to prehistoric civilizations, although its maximum splendor came from the Roman Empire, of which monuments of great importance are still preserved, such as the main attraction of the enclave, the Aqueduct.

Built at the beginning of the 2nd century, it was built with the aim of supplying water to the entire city. In addition to being considered one of the characteristic symbols of the city, appearing on its flag and shield, it was also declared a National Monument in 1884 and a World Heritage Site in 1985.

Another of the most striking is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and San Frutos, in late Gothic style and which was built over more than 2 centuries, between 1525 and 1768. Inside, it has 18 chapels and 3 naves with several domes and countless stained glass windows.

However, these are not the only historical and religious monuments in the city, which has been accumulating works for years until it has become one of the most notable destinations for the cultural heritage it houses. Thus, these are other of the most striking spaces in the city:

Toledo, in Castilla la Mancha

One of the best options just an hour from Madrid by car is Toledo. Known as “the City of Three Cultures” due to the coexistence between Christians, Jews and Muslims during various periods, Toledo stands out for the great heritage quality it has.

Although it was an important city in the Tarragona province under the rule of the Roman Empire, Toledo is mainly known for other occupations, such as when it became the capital of the Visigoth Kingdom or when it was conquered by the Muslims in 711.

Among the main attractions of Toledo, the Alcázar stands out, located in the highest area of ​​the entire city. This building has been marked by different historical events, such as the War of Succession, the War of Independence or the Spanish Civil War; during which it has suffered several damages caused by sieges, fires and others.

However, this is not the only historical monument in the city, since it has a varied heritage, both historical and religious. Other of the most striking constructions are:

Aranjuez, in Madrid

One of the main options with which to enjoy a getaway without the need to leave the Community of Madrid is Aranjuez. Although it has prehistoric, Roman and Muslim remains, it was not until the 16th century when King Philip II gave the enclave great importance by establishing it as a royal residence. In the same way, it became considered an enlightened city some time later thanks to the Bourbon monarchy.

Among the most notable monuments is the Royal Palace – residence of the kings of Spain – and the Royal Gardens, which include the Garden of the Prince, the Garden of the Island and the Garden of the Parterre. In the same way, it is also possible to enjoy the Casa del Labrador, a small palace surrounded by nature.

Just 45 minutes from the center of Madrid, the enclave also presents an ideal option for carrying out different easy hiking routes full of unique environments and landscapes. Thus, the space is not only a great historical and cultural option, but it is also a great alternative for nature and sports lovers.