Half-Day Trip From Madrid: Alcalá De Henares & Winery Visit

Set out on a captivating half-day journey from Madrid to the historic city of Alcalá de Henares. Discover the birthplace of the legendary Miguel de Cervantes, explore stunning landmarks, and indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience. This comprehensive tour promises to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the region. What awaits you in this enchanting destination? Let’s dive in and find out.

Good To Know

• Explore the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, with a guided walking tour of key landmarks in Alcalá de Henares.
• Experience a local winery with a guided tour and wine tasting, complementing the historical exploration of the city.
• Discover the architectural heritage of Alcalá de Henares, including the Gothic Cathedral of the Santos Niños and the 16th-century Palacete De Laredo.
• Enjoy round-trip transportation from Madrid to Alcalá de Henares, with an expert guide leading the walking tour upon arrival.
• Immerse in the cultural and historical significance of Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage site, during this half-day excursion from Madrid.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Trip

This half-day excursion from Madrid takes visitors to the historic city of Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the renowned author of Don Quixote.

The trip includes a guided walking tour of the city’s key landmarks, such as the Cathedral of the Santos Niños and the University of Alcalá. Participants will also visit a local winery for a guided tour and wine tasting.

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and is priced at $96.59 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Round-trip transportation from Madrid is included in the price.

Getting to Alcalá De Henares

The tour begins with pickup from the Naturanda Tourist Office, located at Pl. de España, 9. Guests will board the bus/coach for the 40-minute drive to Alcalá de Henares.

| Duration | Direction | Travel Time |

|———-|———–|————-|

| 40 min | Madrid to Alcalá de Henares | 40 min |

| 30 min | Alcalá de Henares to Madrid | 30 min |

Once in Alcalá de Henares, an expert guide will lead the group on a walking tour to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed historical and artistic heritage, including the Cathedral of the Santos Niños and the University of Alcalá. After the tour, the group will visit a local winery for a guided cellar tour and wine tasting before returning to Madrid.

Exploring the Cathedral of the Santos Niños

After exploring the main street of Alcalá de Henares, the walking tour takes visitors to the Cathedral of the Santos Niños, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

The cathedral’s impressive façade and spires dominate the skyline. Inside, visitors can admire the detailed stone carvings, stained glass windows, and ornate altarpiece.

The cathedral’s soaring façade and spires command attention, while its intricate stone carvings, stained glass, and ornate altarpiece captivate visitors.

The guide provides insights into the cathedral’s history, including its connection to the martyrdom of two young Christian saints, whose relics are housed within.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich religious heritage and architectural marvels.

Strolling Through the Palacete De Laredo

As visitors continue their guided tour, they stroll through the Palacete de Laredo, a magnificent 16th-century palace that showcases the city’s architectural heritage. The palace’s intricate facade boasts Renaissance-style details, captivating the group. Inside, ornate interiors reveal the grandeur of Alcalá’s past. Visitors marvel at the stunning courtyards and elegant rooms, imagining the daily life of the aristocratic families who once occupied this historic landmark.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Renaissance-style facade with intricate details |

| Interiors | Ornate rooms and elegant courtyards |

| History | Former residence of aristocratic families |

The Palacete de Laredo provides a glimpse into Alcalá’s rich cultural and architectural legacy, captivating visitors as they explore this remarkable historical site.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering the Calle Mayor

From the Palacete de Laredo, the guided tour proceeds along the Calle Mayor, Alcalá de Henares’ lively main street.

Lined with historic buildings, churches, and shops, the Calle Mayor offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The guide points out architectural details and shares stories about the people and events that shaped this vibrant thoroughfare.

Visitors explore the bustling street, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the local culture. The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to truly appreciate the rich heritage and charming ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visiting the University of Alcalá

The guided tour then leads visitors to the University of Alcalá, a renowned institution founded in 1499.

As one of Spain’s oldest universities, the campus boasts stunning Renaissance architecture and a rich history. Guests explore the university’s historic halls, admiring the intricate details and learning about its role in shaping Spanish education and culture.

The guide shares fascinating anecdotes, bringing the university’s past to life. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site and its enduring legacy as a center of learning and intellectual pursuit.

Wine Tasting at the Local Winery

After exploring the historic sites of Alcalá de Henares, the tour then takes visitors to a local winery for a guided tour and wine tasting.

During the 30-minute visit, guests will discover the winery’s wine cellar and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.

The highlight of the experience is the wine tasting session, where travelers can savor a selection of the winery’s finest offerings.

The highlight of the experience is the wine tasting session, where travelers can savor a selection of the winery’s finest offerings.

This activity provides an opportunity to appreciate the local flavors and culture, complementing the exploration of Alcalá de Henares’ architectural and historical heritage earlier in the tour.

Returning to Madrid

Once the wine tasting concludes, the tour now heads back to Madrid. The return journey takes around 30 minutes.

The bus drops off passengers at the starting point, Pl. de España, 9. This brings the half-day excursion to an end.

Travelers will have had the chance to explore the historic city of Alcalá de Henares, visit the university, and sample local wines.

The tour provides a convenient and informative way to experience the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, just outside of Madrid.

Guests can then continue exploring the capital city on their own or head back to their accommodations.

Common Questions

Are Any Additional Food or Drinks Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a wine tasting session, but no additional food or drinks are included. Visitors can purchase any extra food or beverages they’d like during their free time in Alcalá de Henares.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s worth noting that a wine tasting is included, so it’s recommended to avoid consuming too many outside beverages during the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The walking tour includes accessible routes, and the winery visit can accommodate visitors with mobility needs. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special requirements when booking.

Can I Extend My Stay in Alcalá De Henares After the Tour?

The tour does not include an option to extend your stay in Alcalá de Henares after the excursion. The half-day trip focuses on the guided walking tour and winery visit, with transportation back to Madrid at the end of the scheduled 5-hour itinerary.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

The tour provider recommends visitors bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the historic sites and scenic landscapes. It’s also a good idea to bring a small amount of cash for any optional purchases.

The Sum Up

This captivating half-day trip from Madrid to Alcalá de Henares offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore the city’s renowned landmarks, including the stunning Cathedral of the Santos Niños and the historic Palacete De Laredo. The highlight is a visit to a local winery, where one can indulge in a delightful wine tasting, seeing the region’s vibrant heritage. This excursion provides a well-rounded glimpse into the charms of Alcalá de Henares.

You can check if your dates are available here: