Things to do in Segovia

The Segovia Aqueduct is an age-old monument to the innovation and grandeur of the Roman Empire. Framing the ancient borders of the city, the aqueduct’s perfectly precise design merges beauty and utility. Stroll beneath the colossal pillars of the two-tiered structure and imagine the city as it would have appeared two millennia ago. Find out about the myths and legends surrounding the monumental landmark and learn about the feat of engineering that allowed the structure to function for almost 19 centuries.

Explore the labyrinthine cloisters, chapels and tombs of the Segovia Cathedral and learn about a history that stretches back to the 16th century. Charles V ordered the construction of the cathedral in 1525 to replace the razed cathedral that stood near the Alcázar. As Renaissance architecture flourished elsewhere, the Segovia Cathedral continued to be built to plans drawn by Juan Gil de Hontañón until 1768, making it Spain’s final Gothic-style construction. Affectionately known as Dama de la Catedrals (Lady of the Cathedrals), the ornate spire-tipped structure has been a cherished landmark in Segovia for centuries.

The Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos is a green park and observation deck a short walk north from the majestic castle known as the Alcázar de Segovia. The viewing deck lies on a pleasant meadow and provides an excellent vista of the castle and its surrounding trees from below. Gaze up at the golden turrets and towers and crenellated walls of the medieval fortress. Notice that its shape is a bit like the bow of a ship.

Discover the preserved artworks and architectural flourishes of the San Antonio El Real Convent, a hidden treasure on the outskirts of Segovia’s historic district. Experience the simplicity and grandeur of the preserved complex, which features an Isabelline-Gothic façade, 15th-century Mudéjar elements and rich Baroque decorations. Learn about the monastery’s former use as a leisure palace and follow its path through history as it is transformed into a convent and finally a hotel and restaurant.

The Vera Cruz Church is a remarkable and solitary landmark of Romanesque architecture in the Segovia neighborhood of Zamarramala. Built in 1208 by the Knights Templar, the ancient building is not a church so much as a shrine to the True Cross (Vera Cruz). Explore the two-story gallery where the knights would have watched over the holy shard of the True Cross and climb the tower to check out unbeatable city views.