Ávila and El Escorial: two easy day trips from Madrid

Visit El Escorial monastery and the walled city of Ávila from Madrid by Cercanías or regional train, with tips on combining both in one day.

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Two different trips

El Escorial and Ávila both lie north-west of Madrid along the same railway line, so they are often paired. El Escorial is a royal monastery and palace; Ávila is a small city enclosed by some of the best-preserved medieval walls in Europe. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Getting to El Escorial

Cercanías line C3 runs from Atocha, Sol and Chamartín to El Escorial in about an hour, and it is included in many public transport passes. From the station, it is a pleasant uphill walk or short bus ride to the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

What to see at El Escorial

Philip II built the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the late sixteenth century as a palace, monastery, library and royal mausoleum. Highlights include the Pantheon of Kings, where most Spanish monarchs since Charles I are buried, the library with its painted vaulted ceiling, and the austere private rooms of Philip II. Photography is restricted in some areas, and the monastery is usually closed on Mondays.

Getting to Ávila

Regional trains from Madrid Chamartín reach Ávila in about an hour and a half; buses from Estación Sur are similar. The walled old town is about a 15-minute walk from the station.

What to see in Ávila

You can walk along a long stretch of the walls, which date mainly from the eleventh and twelfth centuries and have dozens of towers. Ávila is the birthplace of Saint Teresa, and the Convent of Santa Teresa stands on the site of her family home. The cathedral is built into the walls themselves. For the classic view, walk out to the Cuatro Postes viewpoint across the river. Try yemas de Santa Teresa, small sweets made from egg yolk and sugar.

Combining both

Doing both in one day is possible but rushed. A better plan is El Escorial in the morning, lunch there, and a separate trip to Ávila another day; or stay a night in Ávila, which is calm and beautifully lit after dark.

The Valley of Cuelgamuros

Near El Escorial is the Valley of Cuelgamuros, formerly known as the Valley of the Fallen, a monumental complex built under Franco. It remains a controversial site, and its status and access arrangements have changed in recent years, so check current information if you plan to visit.

Eating in El Escorial and Ávila

San Lorenzo de El Escorial has plenty of restaurants around the monastery, with terraces that are pleasant in summer. In Ávila, the local speciality is chuletón de Ávila, a large beef steak from local breeds, and judías del Barco, a hearty bean stew. Restaurants inside the walls fill up on weekends.

Practical tips

Both places sit higher than Madrid and can be noticeably colder and windier, especially in winter. Ávila's walls have limited walkable sections and set opening hours, and the walkways include stairs. At El Escorial, the visit involves many staircases and long corridors. Check opening days, as many monuments in the region close on Mondays.

Who each trip suits

El Escorial is ideal for history and art lovers interested in the Spanish monarchy. Ávila suits those who enjoy medieval architecture, quiet streets and religious history. Families often enjoy Ávila's walls more, as walking along them feels like an adventure.

FAQ

Official sources

• Official Madrid tourism (esMADRID)
• Metro de Madrid