Did you know that Spain is the country with the third most UNESCO-protected sites?
Inherited cultures, breathtaking monuments and centuries-old flavours will make you fall in love (even more) with our country. Our concierge suggests you the five most special places to discover, all located less than two hours from the capital.

Toledo, a jewel on the Iberian meseta.

Located on a hill overlooking the Tajo River is Toledo, a historic fortified city that was occupied by the Romans, the Visigoths and, later, the kings of Castile. In 1986 it was distinguished by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its great historical and cultural value. Its unparalleled beauty makes it one of the most valued jewels of the Iberian meseta, located less than an hour from the capital.

San Lorenzo El Escorial, a journey through time.

The legacy of Philip II is located in the Sierra de Guadarrama. A visit to San Lorenzo El Escorial to connect with the history of the Spanish monarchy. Its famous monastery and stunning gardens are two of the most important attractions of this Royal Site. It was in 1984 that the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Aranjuez, a garden of royalty.

The garden of the Spanish monarchy was the spring residence of the Bourbons. Bathed by the Tajo River, its palace gardens are of great beauty and botanical variety. There are also several places of priceless cultural value, such as the historic centre of the city itself, the natural landscape of the banks of the Tagus and the historic market gardens, which once provided the Court’s pantries. A magical place that was named a UNESCO Cultural Landscape on 14 December 2001.

Segovia, a city with history.

One of the most beautiful cities in Castile-León. The good state of conservation of its famous aqueduct, which has blended in perfectly with the new Segovia, led to its inclusion on the list of World Heritage Cities in 1985. Let yourself be enchanted by the impressive landscape that surrounds it as you stroll through its streets under the refreshing groves of trees that make Segovia a unique place.

Alcalá de Henares, a moment of admiration.

The homeland of Miguel de Cervantes was the first university city to become a World Heritage Site in 1998. An ideal place to stroll through its streets, enjoy every square, lose yourself in its museums and admire its monuments.

The Paseo del Prado and the Jardines del Buen Retiro, a place for culture.

In the heart of the city centre of Madrid, you will find heritage sites recently recognised as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro is a unique urban environment where you can enjoy green spaces (such as the Buen Retiro Garden or the Royal Botanical Garden), buildings of great institutional value and the main cultural references of the country such as the Prado National Museum, the Reina Sofia National Museum, the National Museum of Anthropology or the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, among others.

Our concierge invites you to discover the places of greatest heritage interest according to UNESCO during your visit to Madrid this summer. More information at info@hotelurso.com