Go to Segovia

Q: I will be in Madrid in July and am considering a day trip to Segovia. Is it possible to do this comfortably in one day? My main aim is to see the famous Roman aqueduct. However, can you tell me what else I can see in the city and is easier to get there by bus or train? - Susie Johnson

A: You can certainly take a day trip to Segovia, as the journey should not take you more than two hours each way. Located 80 kilometres north of Madrid, this small city is home to a wealth of monuments. The aqueduct is the premier attraction, but you should also visit the hilltop castle, El Alcazar, the royal summer palace of La Granga and the landmark cathedral, visible from anywhere in the city. There are plenty of interesting churches to see, as Segovia has the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in all of Europe. The old city, which is surrounded by walls built in the 8th century AD, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can travel by bus or train, but most travellers opt for the bus service as it ends very close to the old city and takes a scenic route. Buses leave Madrid for Segovia every half hour and trains every two hours. You can also take a packaged day trip from Madrid, where all your arrangements will be taken care of. For further information, go to the www.segoviamint.org website. (31 May 2009)