Segovia, SPAIN is a strong pick if you want food, culture, fun, art, architecture, and history in a an easy to walk or drive location. The city is magical with an ancient aqueduct that greets you. The streets of the ancient city used to house the capital of Spain. Getting to Segovia from Madrid, one passes great outlet malls, scenic mountains, and the opportunity to shop for ceramics and home décor. You can make it a day trip or spend the night in one of the wonderful hotels.
One can graze their way through the city eating everything from ice cream to their famous ham. The classic Segovian dishes and culinary items to try or purchase:
-Cochinillo Asado (roast suckling pig) or Pate De Conchinillo- roast suckling pig pate
-Miel- honey
-Judiones- a hearty pork dish
-Judiones de La Granja —white bean stew.
-Chorizo Extra Artesano – look for Embutidos y Jamones Artesanos chorizo sausage
-Beans- both large white beans and garbanzo- they are sold all over the city
-Queso Artesano De Oveja ( Semicurrado Elmolinero)- cheese
-Paleta Cerveza- Pale Lager
-Mermelada FincaCardaba Vino- marmalade
-Caramelos Violetas- typical Spanish candy that are purple and flower shaped
There are numerous restaurants in the old and new city to choose from. One can eat classic Segovian or modern Chinese. Below is a list of Spanish food:
- José María is one of the city’s most noted traditional restaurants and is also listed by the MICHELIN Guide. The classic cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) is served here. [Jose Maria…Restaurant]
- Villena- upscale dining
- Casa Silvano-Maracaibo– is in the Michelin Guide
- Mesón de Cándido, near the aqueduct, is famous for roast pig and traditional food. [Restaurant…de Cándido]
- Taberna López – classic food in a relaxed atmosphere. [Restaurant…erna López]
- El Bernardino -traditional restaurant [Restaurant…Bernardino]
The famous Aqueducts from Roman times still work!
Must-see places when visiting Segovia
- The Roman Aqueduct of Segovia is the city’s signature sight, with views of Plaza del Azoguejo. [Segovia Aqueduct]
- The Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Esteban Vicente-The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Esteban Vicente honors the life and work of Esteban Vicente, as the only Spanish born member of the first generation of Abstract Expressionists. The museum is free and has fantastic exhibitions of modern-day Spanish artists. https://estebanvicente.com/museum
- The Alcázar de Segovia is the fairytale castle that houses armor and art. [alcazardesegovia.com]
- Segovia Cathedral, beside Plaza Mayor, is an incredible Cathedral filled with art and historic artifacts. [turismodesegovia.com]
- The Jewish Quarter (Judería) has a museum, a restaurant, and plaques that are on the streets in front of what used to be Jewish institutions and homes.
- The Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, is a short ride from Segovia. The palace has beautiful gardens.
Best areas to stay
1) Old Town / Casco Antiguo —
This is the easiest area for sightseeing because you’re close to the Aqueduct, Plaza Mayor, and Cathedral, and you can walk through the city.
2) Jewish Quarter / around the Alcázar — quiet and full of ancient character
The Jewish Quarter is central in the old city and offers wonderful walks that are filled with history.
3) Outside the center has views —for those with cars
Old Segovia has very narrow streets. If you prefer easier parking, more space, and views, staying just outside the old town can be fantastic—at places like the Parador. [paradores.es]
Hot Hotels to Consider
- Áurea Convento Capuchinos —In the historic center, set in a former monastery and known for its spa, interesting rooms, and great breakfast buffet.
- Parador de Segovia — wonderful if you want views, parking, and a pool rather than a stay inside the old city center. It’s about 3 km from the historic center.
- Hotel Real Segovia — on Calle Juan Bravo, is a great choice if you want to walk everywhere easily. [recordishotels.com]
- Infanta Isabel Hotel — right on Plaza Mayor, ideal if you want to stay in the center of the action.
- Hotel Don Felipe — location in the historic district with views toward the Alcázar.
Segovia is a beautiful destination for vibrant art, ancient history, rich food, and even hot air balloons. It is the perfect destination for families or for individuals. There is so much to take in, that I would spend a night or two there. The crisp mountain air feels so good! Visitors can feel safe knowing that they have their own hospital and there are many pharmacies in the region that are easy to access. So, no excuses! Make your way to Segovia on your next trip to Spain!
Mitch’s note: The husband and I spent a long weekend in Madrid and did 2 daytrips (pre kid, so over 25 years ago). We went to Toledo and Segovia. We had an amazing time and did not have as much time as Jen to eat all the foods, but the suckling pig in Segovia was the standout for sure! What a beautiful country!
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