First Visit to Segovia: Five Mistakes to Avoid

A practical guide to sidestepping the common pitfalls that can dull a first trip to Segovia, from timing the aqueduct to choosing the right neighbourhood.

Mistake 1: Treating Segovia as a day trip from Madrid

The high-speed train from Madrid Chamartín to Segovia-Guiomar takes about 27 minutes, making a day trip tempting. But Segovia's charm unfolds slowly, and rushing back to Madrid means missing the city after dark, when the aqueduct is illuminated and the Plaza Mayor buzzes with locals. Staying overnight lets you explore without the midday crowds and enjoy a quiet morning before the tour buses arrive. Hotels inside the old town, like those near the Plaza del Azoguejo, put the aqueduct at your doorstep, while options near the train station are cheaper but require a 15-minute bus ride to the centre.

If you only have one day, prioritize the aqueduct, the cathedral, and the alcázar, but accept that you'll skip the quieter corners. For a first visit, I recommend at least one night, ideally two, to soak in the atmosphere. Book a hotel in the old town to maximize your time; the slightly higher price is worth it for the convenience and evening ambiance. Avoid the mistake of squeezing Segovia into a half-day; it deserves more.

Mistake 2: Climbing the Alcázar without checking opening hours

The Alcázar of Segovia, the fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney, is a must-see, but many visitors arrive to find a long queue or, worse, closed doors. Opening hours vary by season: generally 10:00 to 18:00 from October to March and 10:00 to 20:00 from April to September, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. However, it often closes early on public holidays and Mondays. Tickets cost around €8 for adults, and booking online saves time, though you'll pay a small fee. The tower climb, an additional €2.50, offers the best views of the surrounding countryside.

To avoid disappointment, check the official website for updated hours before you go. Arrive at opening time or after 15:00 to dodge the peak midday crowds. If you're visiting in summer, go early to beat the heat, as the climb up the tower is exposed. I'd skip the audio guide (€3) unless you're keen on history; the signage is sufficient. Also, note that the Alcázar is a 15-minute uphill walk from the aqueduct, so wear comfortable shoes.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the city's culinary specialties

Segovia is famous for cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and judiones de la Granja (white beans from nearby La Granja), but many visitors settle for generic tapas near the aqueduct. Instead, head to the Plaza Mayor or Calle Real for authentic mesones. Mesón de Cándido, right by the aqueduct, is a classic, but reservations are essential. For a more local experience, try José María, a short walk from the Plaza Mayor, known for its cochinillo. Expect to pay €25-35 for a main course. If you're on a budget, opt for a menú del día (set lunch) at a smaller bar, often €15-20.

Vegetarians might find options limited, but many restaurants offer salads and tortilla española. Don't leave without trying a ponche segoviano, a sponge cake filled with custard and marzipan, at a pastry shop like El Alcázar. For coffee, avoid the tourist traps on Calle Real and head to Plaza Mayor, where locals gather. I'd book a table for dinner at a traditional mesón to fully experience Segovia's culinary heritage. Skip the chain restaurants near the aqueduct; they're overpriced and uninspired.

Mistake 4: Overlooking Segovia's surrounding natural beauty

Segovia is not just a city; it's surrounded by stunning landscapes. Many visitors never leave the old town, missing the chance to hike or cycle in the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama. The Eresma River valley, just below the Alcázar, offers a pleasant walk with views of the castle and the Vera Cruz church. For a longer excursion, take a 20-minute bus to La Granja de San Ildefonso, where the royal palace and gardens are a UNESCO site. In summer, the gardens are a cool retreat; in autumn, the foliage is spectacular.

If you have a car, drive to the Puerto de Navacerrada (about 45 minutes) for mountain trails. Public transport is limited, so plan accordingly. I'd recommend dedicating half a day to La Granja; the bus from Segovia's bus station runs hourly and costs around €2.50 each way. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike. Avoid the mistake of thinking Segovia is only about its monuments; the natural surroundings add depth to your trip.

Questions, answered

How do I get from Madrid to Segovia?

Take the high-speed Avant train from Madrid Chamartín to Segovia-Guiomar; it takes about 27 minutes and costs around €13 one-way. Buses from Madrid Moncloa take about 1 hour 15 minutes and cost less, but trains are more frequent and comfortable.

Where should I stay in Segovia for a first visit?

The old town, near the Plaza Mayor or the aqueduct, is ideal for walking to all major sights. Hotels there range from €60 to €120 per night. Staying near the train station is cheaper but less convenient; you'll need a bus or taxi to reach the centre.

What are the opening hours of the Alcázar?

The Alcázar is generally open from 10:00 to 18:00 (October to March) and 10:00 to 20:00 (April to September). Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. It may close early on Mondays and holidays, so check the official website before visiting.

What local dishes should I try in Segovia?

Don't miss cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and judiones de la Granja (white beans). For dessert, try ponche segoviano. Expect to pay €25-35 for a main course at a traditional mesón; set lunches are €15-20.

Is Segovia walkable?

Yes, the old town is compact and best explored on foot. The main sights—aqueduct, cathedral, and Alcázar—are within a 20-minute walk of each other. Wear comfortable shoes as streets are cobbled and some are steep.

What day trips can I take from Segovia?

La Granja de San Ildefonso, with its royal palace and gardens, is a 20-minute bus ride away. The bus runs hourly and costs about €2.50. For nature lovers, the Sierra de Guadarrama offers hiking trails, but you'll need a car to access them easily.

When is the best time to visit Segovia?

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot, and winters cold but festive. Avoid major holidays if you dislike crowds, as the city gets busy.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Alcázar?

It's not mandatory, but booking online saves time and costs a small fee. During peak season (July-August), queues can be long, so arriving early or booking ahead is wise.

← Segovia's page