This medieval city is stunningly beautiful, and it made me break the rule of travel.
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◦ Toledo
Located approximately 70 kilometers south of Madrid, Toledo was founded during the Roman era. In the Middle Ages, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Castile. Its history, enriched by the occupation of the Moors and invasions by the Romans and Visigoths, is reflected in its diverse architectural styles and cultures. The ancient city, which underwent little change after the 16th century, has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
◦ Breaking the Rule
When traveling, especially in countries where safety might be a concern, I adhere to one principle: return to the hotel before dark. However, the beauty of this city captivated me so deeply that I willingly broke this long-held rule.
After spending 7 hours walking around and realizing that my return train was about to depart, I made the decision to change my ticket and catch the last train back to Madrid. In retrospect, that decision was absolutely right! I took advantage of the extra time and walked up to the hill south of the river, enjoying a panoramic view of this ancient city. If I have the chance to visit again in the future, I would definitely stay a few more nights to fully immerse myself in the local culture and atmosphere.
◦ How to Get to Toledo
By train: Start from Atocha station, where you'll take a train to the Toledo station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. After arriving, it's a bit of a hike to the old town, requiring approximately a 30-minute walk.
By ALSA bus: Depart from Madrid's Plaza Elíptica station. The ride takes approximately 60-90 minutes, and the drop-off point is closer to the historic city district.