Monuments, history, and gastronomic tradition in a journey to the heart of Castile

Traveling through Toledo, Alcalá de Henares, Segovia, and Ávila in a single trip offers the chance to delve into four UNESCO World Heritage Cities bringing together history, culture, and some impressive monuments. This experience is even further enriched by the opportunity to stay in Paradores—all four-star establishments forming part of Spain’s architectural heritage and offering travelers an immersion into the essence of each destination, in a combination of comfort and tradition, serving up cuisine that’s always true to the local land. Toledo, the beginning of a monumental journey This tour can begin in Toledo (Castile-La Mancha), the imperial city that rises above the Tagus River. The Parador of Toledo, located in an old cigarral estate with unique views, offers a comprehensive panorama of the old town. From there, tourists can access iconic sites like the Primatial Cathedral, the famous Alcázar, and the San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, as well as museums, synagogues, and mosques. Some of the must-see destinations include Plaza de Zocodover and the Santo Tomé Church, home to El Greco’s masterpiece. Meanwhile, the local cuisine features such unmistakable flavors as Toledo-style partridge and marzipan.

The restaurant at the Parador de Toledo offers its guests the chance to enjoy an unparalleled view of the monumental city, with the cathedral and Alcázar in the background © Paradores de Turismo

Alcalá de Henares, birthplace of Cervantes A few miles away, Alcalá de Henares, in the Community of Madrid, reveals its unparalleled university legacy. Together, the arcades of its Calle Mayor, the San Ildefonso College, the Magistral Cathedral, and Cervantes’ Birthplace set the pace in this city’s cultural life. Staying at its Parador allows you to connect with that monumental heritage and enjoy a culinary tradition closely linked to tapas culture and unique venues such as the historic Hostería del Estudiante. Segovia, heritage and cuisine in two days The route continues to Segovia, Castile and León, where the Roman aqueduct, the cathedral, and the Alcázar make up a first-rate monumental complex. Its Parador becomes the ideal base to explore city walls, churches, and squares, as well as savoring iconic dishes such as roast suckling pig or Spanish white beans. Nearby highlights include the La Granja de San Ildefonso Royal Palace and the Riofrío Palace, further enhancing the cultural experience.

The traditional roast Segovian suckling pig is Segovia’s most renowned dish © Shutterstock

Ávila, a walled city to conclude the trip Finally, this route can be completed in Ávila, also in Castile and León, whose medieval walls incorporate the city’s Parador into their layout. From this destination, visitors will gain access to the San Salvador Cathedral, the Santa Teresa Convent, and a priceless collection of Romanesque palaces and churches. The privileged views from the Cuatro Postes lookout present the most iconic scenes of the city, while the local culinary scene invites you to try patatas revolconas, Avileña beef ribeye steak, or the sweet yemas de Santa Teresa. Traveling through these four UNESCO World Heritage Cities becomes a cultural, gastronomic experience magnified by choosing the Paradores de Turismo as your accommodation, in spaces that add history and authenticity to every trip.