Explore Madrid & Day trips!

Your New Backyard Is Pretty Epic

Wanderlust is real when you’re studying abroad. But here’s a friendly reminder: you’re literally living in one of Europe’s coolest capital cities!! Madrid has world-class museums (free/discounts for students!), sprawling parks perfect for lazy Sunday afternoons (Retiro, we’re looking at you), rooftop bars with insane views, hidden speakeasies, vintage markets, and neighborhoods you could spend weeks exploring. Not every weekend needs to be a mission. Sometimes the best days are stumbling into a random flamenco show in Lavapiés, getting churros at San Ginés at 2am, or just people-watching in Plaza Mayor with a vermut. You’ve got months here—pace yourself, save some euros, and actually get to know your adopted city. Those spontaneous tapas nights with your new friends and fully immersing yourself into the culture? Those are the moments you’ll remember.

Adventure Is Closer Than You Think

Madrid’s amazing! And some of Spain’s coolest destinations are right next door. We’re talking medieval cities, ancient Roman engineering, royal palaces, and cliff-hanging houses—all less than two hours away. Whether you’ve got a free Saturday, need a study break, or just want to escape the city buzz for a day, these spots are insanely easy to reach by train or bus. Pack a day bag, grab some bocadillos for the road, and get ready to explore. You’re studying abroad in Spain—might as well see more of it, right?

TOLEDO: Game of Thrones Meets Real Life

Just 30 minutes from Madrid, Toledo is basically a medieval time capsule perched on a hilltop. This UNESCO World Heritage city earned the nickname “City of Three Cultures” because Christians, Jews, and Muslims all left their mark here. Wander narrow cobblestone streets that twist and turn like a labyrinth, peek into the jaw-dropping Cathedral (seriously, the gold alone is Instagram gold), and don’t miss the Alcázar fortress towering over everything. Pro tip: Get lost on purpose—that’s when you’ll find the coolest hidden courtyards and artisan shops. Bonus: The views across the Tagus River are unreal at sunset. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can check out the zip line, like the BU crew above!

Getting there: Super easy 30-min train from Atocha or bus 402 from Plaza Elíptica – free with your ABONO JOVEN transport card!
Budget hack: BU pays for the cathedral entry & the tourist bracelet!

SEGOVIA: Aqueducts, Castles & Cochinillo (Oh My!)

Segovia has THE Roman aqueduct you’ve seen in every Spain guidebook—and yes, it’s even cooler in person. Built 2,000 years ago WITHOUT mortar (how?!), it still dominates the Plaza del Azoguejo. After gawking at ancient engineering genius, head to the Alcázar castle that supposedly inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Climb the Tower of Juan II if you’re up for 152 spiral steps and don’t have claustrophobia—the views are worth the leg burn. Foodie alert: Segovia is famous for cochinillo (roast suckling pig), but vegetarians can find plenty of tapas bars around the charming cathedral square.

Getting there: 30-min high-speed train from Chamartín or direct buses
Must-do: Walk under the aqueduct arches at night when it’s lit up

ÁVILA: Walls, Walls & More Walls

Want to walk along perfectly preserved medieval walls like you’re defending a castle? Ávila’s got you covered with the most complete city walls in Spain—we’re talking 2.5 km of walkable ramparts with 88 towers. This birthplace of Saint Teresa feels quieter and more authentic than touristy spots, perfect for when you need a break from big-city energy. The cathedral is literally built INTO the city walls (wild!), and the whole old town is a UNESCO site. Best part? It’s less crowded than Toledo or Segovia, so you can actually enjoy your churros con chocolate in peace.

Getting there: 1.5 hours by bus or train from Madrid
Insider tip: Combine it with Segovia for an epic two-city day trip

EL ESCORIAL: Royal Access to the Mountains

This massive Renaissance complex was King Philip II’s way of saying “Go big or go home.” Part palace, part monastery (BU reimburses the student ticket!), part pantheon (where Spanish royals are buried!), El Escorial is huge and honestly a bit overwhelming—but in the best way. The library alone will blow your mind if you’re into books and baroque ceilings. After touring the palace, head to the nearby Valley de los Caídos. This massive monument is just up the road, but fair warning—it’s controversial and historically heavy. Built under Franco’s regime, it’s a thought-provoking but intense visit if you’re interested in Spain’s complex Civil War history.

Getting there: Bus 664 from Moncloa free using your transport card, from El Escorial take bus 660 to see Valle de los Caídos
Pro tip: Get the audio guide—it makes the history way more interesting!

Madrid is yours- go enjoy it & all the nearby sites have to offer!

Whether you’re getting lost in Toledo’s maze-like streets or having a tapa at a local terrace, you’re in the perfect spot to make this semester unforgettable. Madrid and its surrounding gems give you the best of both worlds—big city energy when you want it, escape-to-the-past vibes when you need it. Explore your barrio like a local, take the above day trips, plus so many more like Salamanca, Cuenca, or Aranjuez! Say yes to spontaneous plans, take way too many photos, and soak it all in. This is your time to explore, mess up your Spanish with confidence, and collect stories you’ll be telling for years. Now get out there!