Toledo, also known as “The Imperial City” and the “City of Three Cultures,” is famous for its skyline of cathedrals, synagogues, and mosques set against the backdrop of the Tagus River. Located in central Spain’s region of Castilla-La Mancha, this ancient city has a rich heritage perfect for history fans. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Toledo, you’ve come to the right place.
Accommodation Options in Toledo, Spain
As an ancient Roman city and the former capital of Visigothic Spain, Toledo’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status speaks volumes about its wealth of historical monuments and landmarks. The city’s main attractions include the Gothic-style Toledo Cathedral, Alcázar of Toledo, and the 14th-century El Tránsito Synagogue. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in inland Spain, visitors can expect everything from top-notch hotels to cozy guesthouses for their accommodations.
Toledo also boasts other fascinating sites, such as the Church of Santo Tomé, which houses El Greco’s renowned painting “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.” Take some time to explore Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes and marvel at its impressive architecture and intricate Mudejar designs. Last but not least, be sure not to miss Puente de San Martín, an impressive medieval bridge spanning the Tagus River.
Toledo’s winding cobblestone streets are like a living museum where you can better understand the Iberian Peninsula’s complex past while enjoying art galleries and delicious traditional Spanish cuisine.
Curious about discovering more? Keep reading this guide to uncover further details on the best areas to stay in Toledo and choose your perfect accommodation.
Where to stay in Toledo: A Summary
If you don’t have the time or the patience to read the full post, here’s a short summary of our recommended areas to stay in Toledo. Keep on reading to discover more information about each of the neighborhoods.
- Best area for sightseeing: Near the Alcázar
- Most central area: Jewish Quarter
- Area with the best transport connections: Near the train station
- Cheapest area: Near Toledo’s Bullfighting Ring
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Toledo?
The ideal place to stay in Toledo is the Old Town, especially for newcomers to the ancient city. This vibrant area, full of well-preserved buildings, houses some of Toledo’s top attractions, such as the Alcázar, the Cathedral of Toledo, and the Old Jewish Quarter. The Old Town also provides excellent connectivity through public transportation and is also where most of the best-rated hotels in Toledo can be found.
Find available accommodation in Toledo’s Old Town.
Best Hotels in Toledo Old Town
- Best 5-star hotel: Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection
- Best 4-star hotel: Hotel Boutique Adolfo
- Best 3-star hotel: Tiempo de Toledo
- Best budget hotel: Almunia de San Miguel
- Best B&B: Hostal La Posada de Zocodover
- Best serviced apartments: Apartamentos Menorá
Where to Stay in Toledo for Sightseeing
As mentioned above, the Old Town is the best location for tourists in Toledo. That said, the city center can be divided into barrios and areas offering different vibes and sights. These are some of the best districts to stay in Toledo, Spain:
- The Jewish Quarter is a charming and historic part of Toledo, featuring winding cobblestone streets, beautiful synagogues, and quaint shops. Staying in this area gives visitors a taste of the rich history and diverse cultures that once thrived in Toledo. The Jewish Quarter is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. Our favorite hotels in the area include the Hotel San Juan de los Reyes and Hotel Pintor El Greco.
- The Zocodover and Alcázar area is another excellent choice for travelers looking to stay in the heart of Toledo. This bustling part of town is home to the famous Zocodover Square, where locals and tourists come together to shop, dine, and enjoy live entertainment. Just a short walk away is the imposing Alcázar fortress, which boasts stunning views of the city from its terrace. The best property in this area is Hotel Sercotel Alfonso VI.
- For travelers prioritizing convenient transportation during their stay in Toledo, choosing accommodations near the Toledo Railway Station is a smart option. The station is well connected with Madrid, making day trips a breeze. A great hotel in this area is the Princesa Galiana.
Where to Stay in Toledo: District by District
1. Judería de Toledo (Old Jewish Quarter)
Best area to stay in Toledo, Spain
The Jewish Quarter is an ideal area to stay when visiting Toledo. This historic neighborhood, with its winding cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved buildings, offers a true taste of the city’s past.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Toledo:
- Heart of the city
- Jewish Quarter of Toledo
- Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes
- El Greco Museum
- Transit Synagogue
- Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue
The Toledo Jewish Quarter, or Judería, is a remarkable area in the historic city of Toledo. Its significance lies in its rich heritage, as it was once the center of Jewish life in the city. During the Middle Ages, this district was home to a thriving and prosperous Jewish community that contributed greatly to the intellectual life and architecture of the city.
One of the key attractions in this district is the El Tránsito Synagogue, an impressive 14th-century building that now houses the Sephardic Museum. This museum showcases the history and culture of Spain’s Jewish community. Another important religious site within the area is the Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, originally built as a synagogue in the 12th century but later converted into a church. Its unique architectural design features horseshoe-shaped arches and Mudejar-style decoration.
In addition to the synagogues, visitors will find other significant attractions, including the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes and the El Greco Museum. The latter celebrates renowned painter El Greco and is a must-see for anyone interested in art or Renaissance history.
Though nightlife is relatively low-key here, visitors can still appreciate lovely local dining options in nearby restaurants. In terms of transportation options, Toledo Jewish Quarter is easily navigable on foot; however, visitors can also use local buses and taxis to get around if necessary.
Accommodation options within Toledo Jewish Quarter include some great boutique hotels set in historic buildings. Prices for these may be slightly higher than in other parts of Toledo, but the chance to stay in such a historically significant area makes it a worthwhile choice.
Best Hotels in the Old Jewish Quarter
Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection
This former palace of Empress Eugenia de Montijo offers style and comfort in the heart of Toledo, 200 meters from Toledo Cathedral. Free WiFi is available.
Hotel Pintor El Greco
Set in a renovated 17th-century bakery, Hotel Pintor El Greco is 50 yards from the El Greco Museum in Toledo’s historic Jewish Quarter. It offers a cocktail bar and rustic rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Tiempo de Toledo
Tiempo de Toledo features free WiFi, located in Toledo, behind Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue.
Grecorooms
Situated in the center of Toledo, Grecorooms features air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi. Popular points of interest nearby include the Sefardi Museum, Taller del Moro, and City Hall.
Apartamentos Menorá
Apartamentos Menorá offers accommodation in the center of Toledo, with free WiFi and a kitchen with an oven, a microwave, and a toaster.
2. Zocodover & Alcázar
A great centrally-located area to stay in Toledo
Staying in the Zocodover & Alcázar area means being close to some of Toledo’s most popular landmarks and giving visitors easy access to explore every corner of the city.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Toledo:
- Heart of the city
- Great views
- Zocodover Square
- Connected by public transport
- All kinds of hotels
- Best area for sightseeing
- Restaurants and tapas bars
The Zocodover and Alcázar area is an exceptional place to stay in Toledo, Spain. This neighborhood is positioned east of the Historic Centre and provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the city and the Tagus River. Its prime location ensures convenient access to captivating landmarks, local culture, and remarkable history.
The crown jewel of this district is the Alcázar of Toledo. This imposing fortress currently houses the Military Museum and stands as one of the city’s main attractions. Its strategic location atop the highest point in Toledo offers unparalleled panoramic views.
Zocodover Square is another significant site in this vicinity, with a rich historical background as a former market area in Toledo. Today, it is encircled by restaurants, tapas bars, and shops.
Walking is the primary mode of exploring this area due to its relatively compact size. However, keep in mind that the streets closer to the Alcázar can be steep, so comfortable footwear is essential.
The accommodation options available in this area include apartments, hostels, hotels, and boutique hotels within walking distance from major attractions such as the Alcazar and Zocodover Square.
Best Hotels near the Alcázar and Zocodover
Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection
This former palace of Empress Eugenia de Montijo offers style and comfort in the heart of Toledo. The rooms are decorated with hand-made carpets and include antique furniture.
Hotel Sercotel Alfonso VI
Alfonso VI is a traditional hotel in the heart of historic Toledo, opposite the Alcázar and 4 minutes from the Toledo Cathedral. The air-conditioned rooms feature views over the city.
Toledo Imperial
The Toledo Imperial is situated in the center of Toledo, next to the famous Alcázar castle. Rooms at the Toledo Imperial are spacious and offer traditional décor with terracotta floors. Rooms have air conditioning.
Almunia de San Miguel
Set around a charming central courtyard, the rooms at the Almunia feature parquet floors and air conditioning. They each have a private bathroom with a hairdryer.
La Posada de Manolo
La Posada de Manolo is located on a building from 1450 in Toledo City Centre, a 2-minute walk from the Cathedral.
Aires de Toledo
Providing city views and free WiFi, Aires de Toledo provides accommodation well located in the center of Toledo, within a short distance of Toledo Cathedral, Casa-Museo de El Greco, and Toledo´s train station.
3. Toledo Railway Station
Excellent connections for visiting Madrid
While the Toledo Railway Station may not be directly in the city center, it’s only a short walk or taxi ride away from all that Toledo has to offer.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Toledo:
- Peaceful area
- Toledo’s train station
- Connected by buses and taxis
- Best area for a short stay
The Toledo Railway Station area, located east of the walled city, serves as the primary entry point for visitors arriving by high-speed train from Madrid. The station is an architectural marvel featuring a Mudejar-style design. From here, travelers can conveniently access guided tours exploring Castilla-La Mancha’s capital.
Choosing to stay near the Toledo AVE Train Station offers a sense of tranquility, as it is situated at a comfortable distance from the bustling Historic Center. This location is particularly advantageous for those on short stays who wish to avoid the crowds. Although seemingly removed from the heart of the action, this area offers convenient access to local landmarks via bus and is only a 20-minute walk from the city center.
Accommodations near Toledo Railway Station predominantly consist of serviced apartments.
Best Hotels near Toledo’s AVE Station
Princesa Galiana
Set opposite Toledo Railway Station, this converted arms house dating from 1920 features rooms with free Wi-Fi. It is around 10 minutes’ walk from Toledo’s beautiful old town.
Hostal Santa Barbara
Set 100 meters from the AVE station, Hostal Santa Barbara is in Toledo. This guest house features free WiFi, free luggage storage, and rooms with air conditioning.
Apartamentos Turísticos TURISToledo
Apartamentos TURISToledo is set in Toledo. Toledo AVE High-Speed Train Station is a 10-minute walk away. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property.
4. Los Cigarrales
Luxury, wine, and incredible vistas
Staying at a Tagus cigarral is a fantastic option when visiting the historic city of Toledo. These traditional country estates offer a combination of the charm of rural Spanish living with breathtaking views of the city.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Toledo:
- Luxury properties
- Wine and gastronomy
- Breathtaking views
The Los Cigarrales area south of Toledo occupies a unique position, with stunning views overlooking the historic city. The locality has a rich history and is known for its traditional Tagus “cigarrales,” or large villas with gardens built by the nobility.
A cigarral is an expansive villa set amid ample gardens, typically on the banks of the Tagus River. These properties offer magnificent views of the ancient city of Toledo and its surrounding landscapes. Over time, many of these historical villas have been converted into luxury accommodations, providing guests with an opulent and tranquil retreat.
The area’s prime location offers easy access to some of Toledo’s most noteworthy attractions. The historic city center is just a short distance away.
Best Hotels in Los Cigarrales
Hotel Cigarral el Bosque
Set in one of the region’s oldest manor houses, Hotel Cigarral el Bosque has extensive gardens and offers free on-site parking and superb views of the historic city center.
Parador de Toledo
Enjoying a stunning location in Cerro del Emperador, 2.2 mi from the center of Toledo, this Parador hotel is housed in an impressive old building and boasts magnificent views of the city.
Cigarral de Caravantes
The Cigarral de Cervantes is located in the Los Cigarrales area of Toledo, just outside the city’s historic center. The hotel features rooms with balconies and panoramic views.
Hotel Los Cigarrales
This hotel is named after its surrounding district, famous for its noble mansions. It lies a pleasant 15-minute walk from the monuments of Toledo city center.
5. North Toledo (New Town)
Budget-friendly area for tourists in Toledo
Staying in North Toledo means you can enjoy modern amenities and conveniently access all the sights that make this city a must-see destination.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Toledo:
- Best area for backpackers
- Tavera Hospital
- Roman Circus
- Bullfighting ring
- Cheap hotels
The area located north of the Old Town is primarily an administrative and residential zone featuring buildings such as the Courts, the Housing Office, and the Health Service of Castille-La Mancha.
There are several attractions worth visiting in North Toledo. The Tavera Hospital is a fine example of a Renaissance palace serving as an art museum. Other sites of interest are the remains of the Roman Circus and the Bullring.
This location benefits from excellent public transportation connections, making exploring other neighborhoods in Toledo easy. Several bus stops are available along Avenida de la Reconquista and Avenida General Villalba.
When it comes to accommodation options in North Toledo, you can expect more budget-friendly rates compared with more tourist-centric areas within the city. This makes it an ideal place to stay for travelers on a budget.
Best Hotels in Toledo’s New Town
Sercotel Toledo Renacimiento
The 4-star Sercotel Toledo Renacimiento is located in a charming building that respects the traditional architecture of this historic and cultural city. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the property.
Hotel Zentral Mayoral
Hotel Zentral Mayoral, located just in front of the bus terminal, 200 meters from Puerta de Bisagra, and a 2-minute walk from the escalators to Zocodover Square, is centrally located in Toledo.
Hotel Martin
Hotel Martin is situated 400 meters from Toledo’s Bisagra Gate, the entrance to the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. It offers free Wi-Fi in public areas and rooms with a private balcony.
Hostal Madrid I
Hostal Madrid I is situated in Toledo. This 1-star guest house offers full-day security and luggage storage space. Free WiFi is available.
Where to Stay in Toledo, Spain: Useful Information
Toledo is located in the central area of Spain, about 71 kilometers from Madrid. This charming city is the capital of the homonymous province and also of the autonomous community of Castille-La Mancha.
The past of Toledo is probably one of the most interesting of the Iberian Peninsula, which is why the city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
While it is true that many see Toledo as a small stopover while touring Spain, this magical city deserves to be thoroughly explored, so staying in Toledo for at least a weekend is recommendable.
When discussing the best areas to stay in Toledo, the Historic Centre is the best alternative since it is where most of its attractions are located. Find accommodation in Toledo’s Historic Centre.
Toledo is known as the “city of the three cultures” because it was the home of Muslims, Jews, and Christians simultaneously.
Therefore, Mudejar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture live in the streets of Toledo. It is also called “imperial city” because it housed the main headquarters of the Carlos I court.
The Historic Centre of Toledo, or walled city, is on a Hill crowned by the Alcazar, one of its most important buildings that used to be the headquarters of the Roman army.
Other attractions of the Historic Centre of Toledo are the Zocodover Square, the Cathedral of Toledo, the impressive Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, and the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes.
When it comes to getting to Toledo, you can take the AVANT high-speed train from Madrid (Atocha station) to Toledo Station, which allows you to reach the capital of Castille-La Mancha in 30 minutes.
On the other hand, the best time to travel to Toledo is autumn to avoid the suffocating summer heat that complicates walking the steep streets of Toledo. Spring is also a good option, but you have to take precautions against possible rains and strong winds from the Tagus River, which crosses the city.
Discover the best time to visit Spain
As far as public transport is concerned, Toledo has buses connecting many of its areas. Renting a car in Toledo is another possibility, but driving through its narrow streets can be challenging.
