Beyond the bustling capital, the greater Madrid region has so much to offer for visitors spending more time in the city. From layers of history to tantalizing blends of local wine, this half-day excursion is a great way to see, hear and taste the essence of the Community of Madrid. In the company of a knowledgeable local driver-guide, you’ll have the opportunity to discover Alcala de Henares, an enthralling city with a history dating back to the 1st Century BC that is known for being the birthplace of Spanish literary giant Miguel de Cervantes (author of the pioneering novel Don Quixote). Then, you’ll proceed to visit a local winery, learn all about the cultivation of wines from the Madrid area, which are widely considered to be hidden gems of the Spanish wine scene and enjoy a wine-tasting to try some of the most emblematic regional varieties.
On your 5-hour private day trip, you will:
- Uncover the fascinating history and heritage of the greater Madrid region;
- Enjoy hassle-free travel with a convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from your central hotel in Madrid;
- Go at your own pace with the undivided attention of your private driver-guide;
- Embark on a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Alcala de Henares;
- Stroll along the picturesque Calle Mayor, Alcala's quaint main street;
- Learn about the life and legacy of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcala’s most famous son;
- See the prestigious University of Alcala, one of the oldest in Europe;
- Step inside the impressive Gothic Cathedral of Santos Niños Justo y Pastor;
- Admire the Palacete de Laredo, a unique 19th-century palace turned museum;
- Visit an emblematic Madrid winery and find out about the winemaking process and growing interest in wines from their region;
- Savour some of the best local vintages with a wine-tasting.
Discover the cultural heritage and hidden treasures of the greater Madrid region on this enthralling excursion to Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage City, followed by a visit to a renowned local winery. With the convenience of private transportation and the expertise of a dedicated driver-guide, your journey promises to be both relaxing and enlightening. Your adventure to Alcala and beyond will begin at your hotel in Madrid with hotel pick-up and drop-off ensuring a stress-free day of exploration. You’ll get acquainted with your guide and depart for your easy journey to Alcala de Henares, enjoying the flexibility and comfort of a private vehicle.
Once there, you will immerse yourself in the rich history of the city, which began as an important Roman settlement known as Complutum founded almost 2000 years ago. Your guide can provide an overview of the city’s history as you stroll through the charming streets of the historic centre, including Calle Mayor, Alcala’s main thoroughfare, lined with medieval arcades and quaint shops. One of the most famous buildings on this street is the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, now a well-preserved museum dedicated to the life and times of the acclaimed author of Don Quixote. Your knowledgeable local guide can delve into the life of Cervantes and explain how his legacy shaped the city.
While the exact route of your guided visit may vary according to the guide and your particular interests, you will certainly have the chance to admire the University of Alcalá, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities, founded in 1499. While you take in its stunning Renaissance architecture and learn about its contributions to education and culture. You can also step inside the Alcala de Henares Cathedral, known as the Catedral de los Santos Niños Justo y Pastor, to observe its impressive interior and hear the stories behind its construction and religious significance. You could also pay a visit to the eclectic Palacete de Laredo, a 19th-century architectural gem that blends Mudejar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
Following your thorough exploration of Alcala, your guide will take you to an esteemed Madrid winery nestled in the nearby countryside. Here you will learn about the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle, and discover why wines from the Madrid region are gaining acclaim and popularity. No winery visit would be complete without sampling the spoils of the vineyards, so you will also enjoy a wine tasting to try a curated selection of the region’s finest wines, accompanied by expert commentary on their flavours and profiles. You’ll experience the rich taste of local vintages and perhaps even procure a few to take home. As your day trip draws to a close, your guide will be on hand to return to your hotel in comfort, enriched with memories of a day filled with history, culture, and fine wine.