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A day trip to Avila (or Ávila as it is known in Spanish) from Madrid is an easy and rewarding way to explore one of Spain's most historic cities. Avila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its remarkably preserved medieval walls, charming old town, and rich religious history. Located approximately 90 minutes from Madrid by train, a day trip to Avila makes for a great addition to any itinerary. In this blog post, you will find everything you need to plan your day trip to Avila, including how to get there and what not to miss once you arrive.
Table of Contents:
- What to Expect on a Day Trip to Avila & The Must-See Sites
- Places to Eat in Avila
- Transportation Between Madrid & Avila
- Turning a Day Trip to Avila into a Longer Stay
- Wrapping Up Your Day Trip to Avila
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What to Expect on a Day Trip to Avila & The Must-See Sites
Avila's incredibly well-preserved medieval charm and history make it one of the best day trips from Madrid. From its iconic city walls to the incredible Avila Cathedral and the sacred Convent of St. Teresa, this city is filled with fascinating landmarks that transport visitors back in time to Medieval Spain. Here are the top sites to explore on your visit and what you can expect on a day trip to Avila.
Avila City Walls (Muralla de Ávila)
Without question, the main highlight on any day trip to Avila is its remarkably well-preserved medieval walls that encircle the Old Town. Stretching over 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) and featuring more than 80 watchtowers, Avila's city walls are a symbol of the city's historic significance. The walls were constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries to guard the city against attacks from the Moors (Muslims from North Africa) during the Reconquista period (early 8th century until 1492) in Spain. Avila, thanks to its central location within Spain, was effectively stuck in between Al-Andalus (the Muslim-ruled territories) and the Christian kingdoms of Northern Spain, and therefore saw a lot of conflict and fighting during the Reconquista period. The city walls, today, look just as they did some 700 years ago when they were completed. If you are looking to learn more about the incredible medieval walls, please visit the Ávila Muralla website.
Avila's medieval walls are open to the public, allowing you to walk along a stretch of the ramparts. Walking along the top of this imposing fortification offers panoramic views of Avila’s rooftops, historic churches, and the rolling Castilian landscape beyond. Whether you visit during the day to admire the architectural details or in the evening when the walls are beautifully illuminated, this iconic landmark is an unforgettable part of any day trip to Avila.
I highly recommend taking time before leaving Avila to walk atop the walls encircling the city. If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring water with you as there is no shade as you walk along the city walls and it can get HOT! The opening hours of the Avila City Walls differ based on the season. For the most up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Ávila Turismo website. Tickets to access the top of the walls can be purchased in-person at the ticket office. I recommend ascending to the top of the walls from the Butchers' Gate (Puerta de las Carnicerías) entrance, near the cathedral. Signage states "Entrada a la Muralla" outside, indicating that you are in the correct place.
Avila Cathedral (Cathedral of the Savior/Catedral del Salvador)
Avila Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Savior (Catedral del Salvador), is one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Spain and one of the most unique. Construction began in the 12th century and the cathedral was designed to serve both as a place of worship and as a defensive structure, built directly into the city walls. Its striking exterior, made from the same reddish-hued granite as the walls, gives it a fortress-like appearance that reflects Avila’s strategic importance in the Middle Ages. The apse of the cathedral is built directly into the fortifications, making it the first Spanish cathedral to double as a military structure. This blend of faith and defense makes it a must-visit on a day trip to Avila.
Inside the cathedral, visitors are greeted with vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and beautiful stained glass. The cathedral’s interior is a masterpiece of medieval artistry, featuring an impressive ambulatory adorned with detailed sculptures and chapels. The cathedral also houses beautifully carved walnut choir stalls and an elaborate cloister, both of which highlight the skilled craftsmanship of the period. Other highlights include the sacristy which houses a portrait of Don Garcibáñez de Múxica by El Greco and an elaborate silver monstrance.
Avila Cathedral is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The last admission to the cathedral is at 5:30 PM. Tickets for Avila Cathedral can be purchased online via the Avila Cathedral website or in-person at the cathedral.
Convent of St. Teresa
One of the most significant religious landmarks in Avila, which is a must-see on any day trip to Avila, is the Convent of St. Teresa. The convent was built on the site where St. Teresa of Avila was born in 1515. A key figure in Spanish mysticism and Catholic reform, St. Teresa was a Carmelite nun, theologian, and writer who played a crucial role in the Counter-Reformation. She is best known for her spiritual writings, which continue to inspire readers today. Canonized in 1622 and later declared the first female Doctor of the Church, she remains one of Spain’s most revered saints.
The convent, constructed in the 17th century, is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and serves as both a place of worship and a shrine dedicated to St. Teresa’s life and legacy. The main highlight of the Convent of St. Teresa is the gilded chapel built over the room where she was born, appropriately named La Capilla Natal de Santa Teresa (Birth Chapel of St. Teresa).
A visit to the Convent of St. Teresa offers a glimpse into Spain's religious history. Whether you come to visit the convent for its architecture or its spiritual significance, this site provides a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of one of Spain’s most influential saints. The Convent of St. Teresa is free to visit and open to the public. The Convent of St. Teresa is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM. On Sundays, the Convent of St. Teresa is open from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
Basilica of St. Vincent (Basílica de los Santos Hermanos Mártires, Vicente, Sabina y Cristeta)
The Basilica of San Vicente in Avila, formally known as the Basilica of the Martyred Sibling Saints Vincent, Sabina, and Cristeta, is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Spain and another must-visit site on a day trip to Avila. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the basilica is located just outside the city walls. The basilica is dedicated to Saint Vincent (San Vicente) and his siblings, who were Christian martyrs (also called the Martyrs of Avila), and according to tradition, were executed on this site during the Roman persecution of Christians in the early 4th century.
One of the basilica’s most important features is its Cenotaph of San Vicente, an elaborate sculpted stone funerary monument that depicts the martyrdom of the siblings in intricate detail. The monument, considered one of the masterpieces of Spanish Romanesque sculpture, is adorned with beautifully carved biblical and historical scenes that bring the story of Saint Vincent and his siblings to life.
The Basilica of San Vicente is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM during the winter months (November through March) and from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM during the summer months (April through October). During the summer months, there is reduced opening hours on Tuesday, when the basilica is open from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. On Sundays, the Basilica of San Vicente is open from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, regardless of the time of year. There is a small fee to enter the basilica and tickets can be purchased on-site. For additional information about the Basilica of San Vicente, please visit the Basilica de San Vicente's website.
Plaza del Mercado Chico
The Plaza del Mercado Chico is the heart of Avila's old town. Surrounded by elegant buildings, cafés, and traditional shops, this square has been a center of community and activity for centuries. It serves as the city's main gathering place, hosting markets, festivals, and celebrations throughout the year.
As you walk through the square, you will see the City Hall, a beautiful Neoclassical building that adds to the plaza’s architectural appeal. Nearby, the Church of San Juan Bautista, with its Romanesque and Gothic architectural features, offers another glimpse into Ávila’s deep religious heritage. Whether you stop for a coffee at one of the outdoor cafés, browse local shops for souvenirs, or simply cut through the square as you enjoy your day trip to Avila, Plaza del Mercado Chico is a must-see spot while you are in Avila.
Las Delicias del Convento
No day trip to Avila would be complete without trying one of the local delicacies: yemas!
Yemas, also known as yemas de Ávila or Yemas de Santa Teresa, are a traditional sweet made from egg yolks and sugar, resulting in a soft, rich, and creamy bite-sized treat. As a must-try on a day trip to Avila, these little confections offer a taste of Avila's heritage and make for a perfect souvenir to bring home. The best place to purchase yemas is from Las Delicias del Convento.
In Spain, the tradition of nuns baking and selling sweets dates back centuries, often as a way for convents to support themselves financially. Using simple, readily available ingredients like eggs, sugar, and almonds, these convents became known for their handmade, time-honored recipes passed down through generations (like yemas in Avila and marzipan in Toledo). In Avila, this tradition lives on at Las Delicias del Convento. It is a delicious way to taste a bit of local history and support a culinary legacy rooted in Spanish monastic life.
Delicias del Convento is located near Avila Cathedral on Calle Reyes Católicos. For their opening hours and additional information, please visit their Facebook page.
Places to Eat in Avila
Avila’s cuisine is hearty, traditional, and deeply rooted in the agricultural heritage of Castile and León. The city is best known for chuletón de Ávila, a thick, bone-in beef steak (think: T-bone steak) sourced from locally raised cattle, grilled, and served medium-rare to highlight the quality of the meat. You will also find comforting dishes like judías del Barco, a rich bean stew made with local legumes and chorizo. The food here reflects the region’s no-frills, rustic character.
While on a day trip to Avila, stopping for lunch or a light snack will inevitably be a part of your day. Some of the best restaurants in Avila, located within the city walls, are listed below. I dined at Restaurante Cocó on my day trip to Avila, enjoying the menu of the day (menú del día).
- Restaurante Siglodoce (Pl. de la Catedral)
- Restaurante Alcaravea (Pl. de la Catedral)
- Restaurante Cocó (C. Vallespín)
- Los Candiles (C. Pedro de Lagasca)
If you are looking for a pastry, sandwich, or even a coffee, there are a number of bakeries and cafés in Avila. When I visited Avila last, I opted for a late-breakfast at Granier (C. Don Gerónimo), which is in the Old Town, not far from Avila Cathedral.
Looking for even more restaurant suggestions? Check out Tripadvisor or theFork.
Transportation Between Madrid & Avila
A day trip to Avila is one of the best day trips from Madrid thanks to its location not too far from Madrid in Castile-León and affordable train fares. Frequent trains to Avila depart from Madrid’s Príncipe Pío Station, with a journey time of around 90 minutes and train tickets beginning at just €10,15 (approximately $11.86 USD). There is only one train station in Avila, commonly referred to locally as the Renfe Station. The train station is walking distance to the must-see attractions and sites within Avila. It is an easy, 20-minute walk from the train station to the Avila Cathedral. Train tickets can be purchased in advance of your day trip to Avila using the RENFE website.
Alternatively, there is a regular bus service between Madrid and Avila from both Madrid’s Estación Sur (Madrid South), Madrid Barajas Airport Terminal 1, and Madrid Barajas Airport Terminal T4 with a travel time running between 75 minutes to 2.5 hours. The main bus company operating this route is Jimenez Dorado Autocares and bus tickets can be booked directly through the Jimenez Dorado Autocares website in advance of your day trip to Avila. The Avila Bus Station is located across the street from the Avila train station, making it a 23-minute walk to the Avila Cathedral.
I personally recommend taking the train between Madrid and Avila, since the trains in Spain are clean and reliable. When I visited Avila in November 2023, I traveled by train and that is how I would go again in the future. I am personally not familiar with the Jimenez Dorado Autocares company, but I have taken buses in Spain in the past. With that being said, buses can be a great option for those traveling on a budget or looking to head out on a day trip to Avila from Madrid Barajas Airport.
Guided Tours of Avila
While a day trip to Avila is easy to plan and accomplish using Spain's efficient network of public transportation, guided tours are also available in the event that you are interested in visiting this historic city in such a setting. Since Avila is small, with not an extensive list of things to do, you can easily pair a day trip to Avila with a nearby city for one of the best day trips from Madrid. The top-rated guided tours of Avila from Madrid, offered through our affiliate partner GetYourGuide, all include at least one additional nearby city and are listed below.
- From Madrid: Day Trip to Avila & Salamanca with Guided Tour
- Madrid: Toledo & Segovia with Alcazar & Optional Avila Tour
- From Madrid: Segovia, Toledo, & Avila Guided Tour
- Madrid: Avila & Segovia Day Trip with Tickets to Monuments
- Madrid: Avila with Walls & Segovia with Alcazar Tour
Turning a Day Trip to Avila into a Longer Stay
While Avila itself does not necessarily warrant more than one day, there are other cities and towns in the larger Castile-León region of Spain that are certainly worth exploring, especially if you are looking to spend an overnight in Avila. A few options include: Salamanca, Burgos, and Segovia. While I previously covered a day trip from Madrid to Segovia in a past blog post, Salamanca and Burgos are less popular among tourists, but still certainly worth a visit. Salamanca impresses visitors with its sandstone buildings, grand Plaza Mayor, unique cathedrals, and one of Europe’s oldest universities. Meanwhile, Burgos is home to Spain’s most magnificent Gothic cathedral which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each of these cities can be reached from Avila by train: Salamanca (76 minutes), Burgos (2 hours 48 minutes), and Segovia (2 hours 17 minutes).
If you are looking to extend your stay in Avila, there are a couple of hotels that I recommend within the historic center, available for bookings through our affiliate partner, Expedia.
Wrapping Up Your Day Trip to Avila
A day trip to Avila offers the perfect blend of history, architecture, and local flavor, all just a short train ride from Madrid. From walking along the city’s incredible medieval walls to visiting Ávila Cathedral and the Convent of St. Teresa, there is no shortage of cultural and spiritual landmarks to explore on a day trip to Avila. Be sure to leave time to sample some of the region’s signature dishes, especially the famous chuletón de Ávila and yemas. Whether you are spending just one day in Avila or planning to stay longer, Avila is a rewarding destination that captures the spirit of the historic region of Castile-León.
If you are planning more adventures in central Spain, including Madrid, do not miss our full Madrid Travel Guide and other blog posts on the best day trips from Madrid, the top sites to see in Madrid, hidden gems in Madrid, and more to help you make the most of your time in this incredible region. ¡Buen viaje!
