The Spanish city of Segovia is one of the most famous historical cities in Europe. Standing on a rocky hilltop, the city is a hub of historical architectural legacy, starting from the Medieval period to modern plazas. For tourists visiting Spain, the city of Segovia is a definite must-visit.

2000 Year Old Aqueduct of Segovia. Photo by Luis Brea Martinez.

From natural scenic sites to man-made architectural wonders that encompass countless stories over the centuries, there are a number of things to do in Segovia. This article will take you through some of the famous landmarks and attractions that you can visit during your trip to Segovia.

1) Cathedral of Segovia

You certainly do not want to miss out on this 500-year-old Segovian cathedral in the city center. Built in a Romanesque-Gothic style, the cathedral’s structure is a feast for the eyes with its sky-rocketing medieval towers against the backdrop of clear blue skies. The cathedral is famous for its historical significance and enjoys fame across Europe for its structural elegance. It has even been dubbed the “Lady of the Spanish Cathedrals”.

2) Ancient Roman Aqueduct

Another famous historical landmark in the city of Segovia is the ancient Roman aqueduct. The site was enclosed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the near-millenium of history it magnificently preserves. The Roman aqueduct is one of the largest existing structures from Roman times in Spain. The aqueduct is still functional as it carries water from the Acebeda River to the city of Segovia.

3) Alcazar of Segovia

Perhaps one of the most famous attractions in the city is the Alcazar of Segovia. This magical castle, an inspiration for Walt Disney’s official logo, was built in the 12th century as a royal residence of King Alfonso X. The Gothic elements of the castle were added around the 15th century when King Henry IV expanded the castle grounds while adding to the architectural magnificence. The castle’s protruding bluish towers and limestone walls with the Guadarrama mountains in the backdrop create a magical impact on the beholder. The charm and aesthetics of the castle are unmatchable, especially in winters when covered in pristine snow–the castle seems like a dream coming to reality.

4) Palacio Real la Granja

The Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso is located around 11 km (7 miles) outside Segovia, in a little town known as San Ildefonso. The palace is nestled in the Guadarrama mountain range, with snowcapped peaks surrounding the castle on all sides. The natural beauty of the surroundings adds to the equally aesthetic palace, which stands as an unmatched replications of the Baroque style from French castles. The castle had a dazzling throne room, lush French gardens, and a spectacular room of mirrors which frequently captivates visitors in a beautiful trance. If you happen to visit Segovia, do not miss out on this architectural gem adjacent to the city.

5) Church of San Martin

Built in the 12th century, the Church of San Martin stands as a remanence of Romanesque architecture blended with Spanish traditions. The church was constructed around the 11th century by Queen Muniadona of Castile. The church has a conventional Romanesque exterior with a three-story façade and aisles with cylindrical bell towers lining the church’s interior. The detailing on the interior columns of the church, replete with sculptures from the 14th century, adds to the church’s historical significance. Do not miss out on visiting this medieval beauty while visiting Segovia.

6) City Walls of Segovia

The walls of Segovia are the remanent of the city’s fortification from medieval times. Extending from the Alcazar to the Gate of Santiago, the walls of Segovia extend about 2,000 meters (6500 ft) surrounding the city. Two circular towers and one rectangular tower keep watch along the walls. The walls had various gates allowing entrance to the city, only two remain: known as the San Andres Gate and the Gate of San Cebrian and Santiago. Visiting these walls, you can get a reflection of how Segovia looked, back in the 11th century AD.

7) El Parral Monastery

Founded in 1447, the El Parral Monastery is still considered one of the most important monasteries in Segovia. The monastery features Gothic inspirations, which are visible on its façade and carvings etched on the windows and interior of the building. Sculptures of apostles and the altarpieces that adorn the monastery’s interior are a perfect example of the Gothic period’s sculptural finesses and Renaissance traditions. You will certainly find yourself traveling back in time and enjoying an authentic experience of living as a Catholic monk in Segovia.

8) Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Esteban Vicente

Unlike the historical gems mentioned so far, the Esteban Vicente Museum of Contemporary Art houses some contemporary masterpieces reflecting Segovia’s culture and tradition. If you are interested in contemporary art and culture, make sure to visit Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Esteban Vicente. You will find all artistic forms and mediums displayed in the museum, from oil paintings to sculptures to contemporary media works.

With that, we conclude our list of some ideal tourist attractions and things to do in Segovia to experience the rch history and culture this glorious Spanish city has to offer. Let us know in the comment section which destination caught your interest.

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