Toledo Half Day Tour

Leaving Madrid, relax on the 43-mile (70-kilometer) drive by luxury coach to Toledo, known as the city of three cultures - where Christians, Jews and Arabs lived together in harmony.

The tour takes you along the labyrinth of laneways winding through the medieval walled town with your friendly guide pointing out Arabic, Mudejar, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, evidence of the citys Roman origins, Moorish influences and baroque grandeur as the former capital of Spain.

View the outside of Toledo Cathedral which is one of just three 13th century High Gothic cathedrals in Spain and considered to be the best example of the Gothic style. Also, see the medieval castle, with its storybook fortified towers, and the stunning Moorish architecture of Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue, Europes oldest synagogue.

Whether you're an art lover or history buff, youll recognize the setting of Toledo from the majestic paintings by the 16th-century master, El Greco. Coming face to face with one of El Grecos most impressive works, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, in the church of St Tome is a tour highlight. The painting features portraits of 16th-century Toledos most important citizens, dressed in late-Renaissance fashions.

Also visit the Monastery of Saint John of the Kings, built by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in the 15th century. Notice the courtyard cloisters and royal coats of arms in this classic example of Spanish Gothic Mudejar design. The tour then takes you to the former house and studio of a local sculptor at the Victorio Macho Museum, where you can see examples of the artists modern artworks and explore the lovely garden.