10 Things to Do in Toledo: The City of Three Cultures

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Toledo is a small, yet incredibly integral city for Spain as a nation. It was once the capital of the Kingdom and home to the kings, queens, emperors and Caliphs of several great empires in history and gave the world artists like El Greco, Luis Tristán, Muñoz and Maíno. Today, Toledo plays a large role in Spain’s tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world who wish to walk through the streets of an authentic medieval town.

In this article we will cover the top things to do in Toledo so you can plan the smoothest visit as possible. If you want to explore even more of Toledo and other small towns outside of Madrid, don’t miss out on Citylife’s many trip packages around Spain! If you prefer exploring on your own, make sure you follow ou Ultimate Guide to Spain so you can plan your travels like a pro!

1. Enter the Toledo Cathedral

In 1226, construction began on the famous Toledo Cathedral. This Gothic wonder stands on the grounds of a former Visigothic Church which was also a Mosque during the time of the Arab Caliphates. The importance of the location and the fact that this church was built for the Archdiocese (one of the highest positions in the Roman Catholic church) makes this one of the most important cathedrals in all of Spain.

2. Explore the Alcazar of Toledo

The Alcazar of Toledo was built on the former site of a Roman Palace. It stands at the highest point of the city, overlooking absolutely everything going on in the city below and surrounding areas. Over the centuries it has acted as a royal palace, a prison, a fortress and now, a beautiful museum highlighting Spain’s medieval history, specializing specifically in Spanish warfare.

3. Go Souvenir Hunting

There is something particularly special about the little things you can find in Toledo. Like the handmade, one-of-a-kind ceramics that are sold in the city’s Jewish Quarter. But most notable are the endless shops of swords, suits, armour and jewelry that you’ll find all across the city. That’s because Toledo is home to one of the most famous metalworking factories in the world and is where many film productions like Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones had their props made.

4. Wander the Jewish Quarter & Visit The Synagogue

The Jewish Quarter in Toledo has a lot more to offer than the small, romantic medieval streets. From small cafes, and charming gardens to artisan boutiques and bakeries. Most important though, are the beautiful synagogues. Particularly, the Synagogue of Santa Maria de la Blanca stands out as a beautiful symbol of Toledo’s Safartic history. At the time of its construction (late 12th century) Toledo was a part of the Christian Empire and it is said that the synagogue was built for the Jewish community by Islamic residents in an act of solidarity.

5. Explore the Arabic Quarter

Islamic architecture can be felt in the very bones of Toledo. From the designs of its medieval streets and the classic Mudéjar styles on its buildings. To impressive monuments that still stand today. If you want to tour some of the most notable features of Toledo’s Arabic past make sure to visit the former Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, the Church of Santiago del Arrabal, the bridge of Alcantara and even the city walls.

6. Tour in El Greco Museum

El Greco is arguably the most famous artist to come out of Toledo, and surely one of the most important to come from Spain in general. This museum is located in the Jewish Quarter and honours the world of El Greco, as well as many other Spanish artists. The museum and its collections are housed in 2 distinct buildings on the same property. The first being a 16th century house which is meant to show visitors how El Greco lived during his time in Toledo. The second being a 20th century building that displays the majority of Greco’s works as well as many other Spanish artists.

7. Try Some Local Specialties

Toledo’s gastronomy, just like the whole city, carries influences of all three cultures. It includes a lot of meat, cheese beans, rice, as well as several sweet dishes and desserts. The most popular one is mazapán de Toledo or simply marzipan. Marzipan is a paste of almonds, sugar or honey, used to create pretty figures of animals, people, flowers, etc. In Toledo, it was traditionally made by nuns in Convent of San Clemente. As they are still producing marzipan today, it is a great opportunity to try the real thing.

8. Fly Next to the Bridge of San Martín

The medieval Bridge of San Martín, was built in the 14th century over the river Tajo. It once acted as a major entryway into the city, particularly into the Jewish Quarter. Now, it acts as a popular photo spot, viewpoint, and surprisingly, the home of the longest urban zipline in Europe! If you have time during your visit, make sure to stop by Fly Toledo and hop on their exciting zipline!

9. Stretch your Legs on an Easy Hike

Nature and hiking enthusiasts will love to visit Toledo for its many walking routes that are just waiting to be explored! Located along the base of the Tajo River and extending beyond into the countryside of Castille La Mancha, are several walking routes that take minimal skill and experience to enjoy. If you’re seeking more of a thrill, you can try joining the mountain climbers as they scale the incredible rock faces that line the base of the city.

10. Admire the Town Wall

Few steps down the road from the Bridge of San Martín, you will start seeing the very foundation Toledo – Its walls. First built by the Romans, fortified by the Moors and repaired by the Christians, these walls speak for the very history of Toledo and its three cultures. Visitors can walk along these walls and pass through the ancient gates during their time in the city to get a true sense of just how much history this city holds.