logo
ic_menu

Alcazar of Segovia

S/N Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia, Segovia, Castilla y León

Description

The Alcázar of Segovia is a bow-shaped medieval castle straddling the edge of a rocky cliff-face, above the confluence of rivers Eresma and Clamores. It was built around the 11th century by the Almoravid dynasty for defensive purpose and was then used as a royal palace. During the 18th century it was repurposed as a military academy and now houses a museum and military archives. Inside, highlights include the Hall of the Old Palace, the Throne Room, and the views from the tower of King John II of Castile (accessible through steep spiral staircases with 156 steps).

Access & Transport

The complex is located at the north-western edge of the town of Segovia, a 5mins walk from the Cathedral and 10mins from the Aqueduct. Bus line 10 stops next to the entrance. The town of Segovia is 85km northwest of Madrid to which it is linked by high-speed train in 30mins. The same train line links Segovia to Valladolid in 35mins.

Instructions & Recommendations

There are regular guided tours in Spanish throughout the day. We suggest visiting the aqueduct, the cathedral and the Alcazar, in that order.

Meta review

A well-known monument profile said to have inspired Disney himself and nearly always listed as a regional highlight by travel guides. From the outside, few online viewers would differ, but the opinion about the interior is a lot more mixed with a significant minority feeling a little underwhelmed, possibly because a lot of the furniture was never replaced so it does feel a little empty. However, there are plenty of visitors who enjoy several sections, the artillery museum in particular (although it lacks English translation) and the views from the tower, well deserved after a short but demanding climb.

Environmental & Social

We deem this attraction environmentally neutral. Preserves the region's architectural and historical heritages

Conclusion

One of Segovia's landmarks, the palace fortress is very well preserved with a stunning setting which make it extremely photogenic. The visit itself is in comparison nowhere as spectacular but still interesting for those with historical inclinations.

Key positive

Impressive setting and striking design

Long and rich historical background

Key negative

Interior is nice but not that special

Suitability

Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility except for the tower

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission 30mins before closing. Closed on 25 Dec, 01 Jan, 06 Jan

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:1h

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1

MONDAY10:00 - 20:00

TUESDAY10:00 - 20:00

WEDNESDAY10:00 - 20:00

THURSDAY10:00 - 20:00

FRIDAY10:00 - 20:00

SATURDAY10:00 - 20:00

SUNDAY10:00 - 20:00

Start of Season 2:Nov, 01

Season 2

MONDAY10:00 - 18:00

TUESDAY10:00 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:00

THURSDAY10:00 - 18:00

FRIDAY10:00 - 18:00

SATURDAY10:00 - 18:00

SUNDAY10:00 - 18:00

Pricing
Price for "Full entry" ticket: Palace + Artillery Museum + access to Tower
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€8
Adult
17 - 64
€10
Child
6 - 16
€8
Infant
0 - 5
€0

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.